url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-pappas-supports-bipartisan-vote-provide-granite-staters-additional-covid-19,Rep. Pappas Supports Bipartisan Vote to Provide Granite Staters with Additional COVID-19 Relief,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01)released the following statement after voting to pass theCaring for Americans with Supplemental Help (CASH) Act of 2020. This willincrease the value of the second round of economic impact payments in the recently enacted COVID-19 relief bill from $600 per eligible member of the household to $2,000 per eligible member of the household. Today I voted for bipartisan legislation to increase stimulus checks to $2,000 per person so we can provide more help directly to New Hampshire families who have been hit so hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic crisis,said Congressman Pappas. It's not every day that two-thirds of the House and President Trump see eye-to-eye on an issue, but helping Americans during this time of need shouldn't be political. I urge our colleagues in the Senate to act quickly and pass this legislation so we can put this money in people's pockets. Congress must continue working with common purpose. The relief package is a bridge to next year, and we will need additional federal support to ensure that we can soundly defeat this virus, rebuild our economy, and get our communities back on their feet. I remain committed to working with Republicans and Democrats to protect Americans' lives and livelihoods and provide every resource available to ensure we weather this storm. On December 21st, Congressman Pappas voted to pass bipartisan legislation to provide additional COVID-19 relief to Americans and fund critical government services and programs, including many New Hampshire priorities that he has strongly championed. Pappas-led provisions in the bill COVID-19 relief and government funding legislation include efforts to expand eligibility for PPP loans for small business and small non-profits, increased flexibility for small businesses, expanding critical infrastructure projects and supporting clean water resources, strengthening international medical partnerships to lessen our dependence on China, developing a clean energy economy, and providing more and better care for veterans and military families.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-pappas-votes-support-servicemembers-and-national-defense-ndaa-veto-override,Rep. Pappas Votes to Support Servicemembers and National Defense in NDAA Veto Override,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01)released the following statement after voting override President Trump's veto of the National Defense Authorization Act: I am glad the House came together tonight in a bipartisan manner to resoundingly override President Trump's misguided veto of the criticalNational Defense Authorization Act,said Congressman Pappas. This year's authorization includes the pay raise all of our troops deserve, and it supports the health and well-being of our military by furthering efforts to clean up PFAS contamination on our bases and better understanding the long term health implications. The final package also includes $160 million for projects at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard that will allow Granite Staters to continue playing a critical role in our nation's readiness. The bill also renames military installations that bear the names of Confederate officers, a move opposed by the President but long overdue to ensure we don't honor the memory of traitors. I hope the spirit of compromise that prevailed in crafting and passing this legislation will continue into the next Congress, and I continue to urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to put aside politics and keep delivering results for our communities. Background: The 2020 National Defense Authorization Act includes several provisions Pappas fought for including: Delayed restructuring and closure of military treatment facilities to veterans and active duty family members across the country, including at a facility in Portsmouth. The establishment of an interagency working group to coordinate PFAS research and development that have been tasked with finding alternatives to PFAS and AFFF. Funding for the CDC's study on PFAS in drinking water was increased to $15 million, a $5 million boost from the previous year. Provides a 3% pay raise for service members. Support for members of the Coast Guard and their families, including a pilot program on childcare, access to the Department of Defense's SkillBridge program, and improved gender diversity and sexual harassment provisions. Funding for a joint program with Israel to support research and development of effective treatments and responses to COVID-19 and lessen our dependence on China to bring an end to the pandemic. Mandated reporting on all the servicemembers who were ever discharged because of their sexual orientation, and data on how many of them have requested discharge status upgrades. Ensuring Vietnam-era Veterans receive care for illnesses directly linked to their exposure to Agent Orange On December 8th, Congressman Pappasvoted to pass theNational Defense Authorization Act,which included several provisions he fought for including help for military installations to clean up PFAS contamination and expand federal efforts to research the health implications of PFAS, the authorization of $160 million for projects at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard which will allow them to continue playing a critical role in our nation's military readiness, and the temporarily blocking a DOD plan that would bar veterans and active duty family members from accessing military treatment facilities across the country, including in Portsmouth. On December 23rd, Congressman Pappascondemned President Trump's veto of the NDAA.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-announce-nh-expected-to-receive-an-estimated-2b-in-covid-relief,"Shaheen, Hassan Announce NH Expected to Receive an Estimated $2B in COVID Relief",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan Announce NH Expected to Receive an Estimated $2B in COVID Relief December 28, 2020 **The FY2021 government funding legislation signed into law includes Shaheen-negotiated COVID-19 relief provisions to help small businesses and child care centers & provides assistance to combat the substance use disorder and food insecurity crises** **Year-end package also includes Hassan-negotiated measures to extend unemployment benefits, provide substantial funding for K-12 and higher education institutions, and increase funding for USPS** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) issued the following statements in response to new estimates from the non-partisan Congressional Research Service (CRS) predicting that New Hampshire is expected to receive approximately $2 billion across a variety of sectors from new federal COVID-19 relief included in government funding legislation that was signed into law Sunday night, which Shaheen and Hassan helped negotiate. These estimates do not include all sectors of New Hampshire's economy that will receive federal relief, which will become available in the days and weeks ahead. The relief legislation also includes language, sponsored by Hassan and supported by Shaheen,extending the period during which stateand local governments may use Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) aid, allocated under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act through December 31, 2021. The CARES Act funding we fought to deliver to New Hampshire was crucial for mitigating the economic impact of COVID-19 in our communities for small businesses, health care providers and many more. But we knew more help would be necessary, which is why bipartisan talks restarted and prevailed, and another set of relief will soon be out the door, said Senator Shaheen. These estimates are helpful to see what the distribution of funding will look like for New Hampshire so we can make plans now on where to start in the next COVID assistance package that Congress will tackle in the new year. This emergency relief will help Granite Staters and Americans over the next few months, but to ensure our communities have the long-term help necessary to recover and rebuild from this economic crisis, further aid will be needed. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and from both chambers of Congress came together to deliver this last package next month we will get to work to do that again. This bipartisan package will bring critically needed and overdue relief to families, small businesses, and schools in every corner of New Hampshire and it will bring more federal dollars to our state to help contain this pandemic, Senator Hassan said. I am also particularly glad that our state is estimated to receive more than $259 million for education needs, which is a priority I spearheaded during bipartisan negotiations. This substantial federal funding to New Hampshire will provide necessary support to help students, parents, and teachers with in-person and remote learning. While more relief will be needed in the coming months in order to save lives and help our economy recover, the federal funding that Senator Shaheen and I secured will go a long way to help families pay their bills and put food on the table. I will also continue pushing for additional resources to help our state and country recover from this unprecedented public health and economic crisis. The funding estimates are broken down into several categories, including unemployment insurance and benefits, direct payments, rental assistance, education and more. Below is a summary of estimates according to CRS: Unemployment Insurance $684,872,533 Average Weekly Unemployment Insurance benefits & Supplemental $300 Federal Assistance $274.72 & $574.72 per person Direct Payments $614,256,000 to 619,033 individuals Rental Assistance $200,000,000 Education funding dispersed through 3 programs addressing K-12 public and private schools & higher education Governors Emergency Education Relief Fund:$10,974,000 Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (Public K-12 schools): $156,066,000 Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund: $91,992,000 Vaccine Distribution & Administration, Testing, Tracing & COVID Mitigation Vaccines: $36,029,990 Testing, Tracing & COVID Mitigation: $183,201,902 Child Care Assistance [through the Child Care and Developmental Block Grant program (CCDBG) under the CARES Act & Additional Funding through new relief] CCDBG program: $6,999,268 Supplemental in new relief: $19,923,050 Urban Transit Assistance $293,144,156 * this includes Boston, MA-NH-RI Rural Transit Assistance $13,773,396* through CARES Act funding Highway Funding (through the Surface Transportation Block Grant Program) $41,041,878 NH Fisheries $3,000,000 Relief for Airports $6,849,756 Funeral Benefits $4,994,000 NOTE: The few CARES Act funding sections above are not included in the $2 billion estimate, which only includes new funding from the new COVID-19 emergency relief. Shaheenand Hassan are members of the bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers that met around the clock for the last month to negotiate COVID-19 relief legislation. Shaheenonce againhelped craft the provisions to assist small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis taking ona similar leadership role that she held as a negotiatorfor the CARES Act and also steered negotiations on nutrition assistance, support to address the substance use disorder epidemic, relief for child care centers and she advocated for funds for testing and contact tracing. In her letter to Senate and House leadershipoutlining her health care prioritiesfor a COVID-19 relief package earlier this year, Shaheen made more funding for testing and contact tracing a top priority. Senator Shaheen negotiated $10 billion in emergency funds for child care businesses through the Child Care and Developmental Block Grant (CCDBG) program. These funds maintain the flexibility given to states through the CARES Act and can be used to provide child care assistance to families and support to child care providers in meeting their increased operating costs during the pandemic. The legislation ensures that states provide assistance to child care providers who have not previously received assistance through CCDBG and provide technical assistance to support child care providers in accessing grant funding. The bill also allows states to expand child care assistance to essential workers and to provide child care payment relief to working families. The bill additionally includes $250 million for Head Start programs across the country to ensure they are able to continue to safely serve low-income children and families throughout the pandemic. Senator Hassan helped lead negotiations on unemployment insurance. The final package extends pandemic unemployment benefits and provide $300 per week in federal supplemental unemployment insurance benefits for 11 weeks. Senator Hassan also led on negotiating the proposal to provide an additional $81.9 billion for K-12 schools and higher education institutions, and $10 billion to support U.S. Postal Service operations. The final COVID relief package also includes bipartisan legislation that Senator Hassan introduced to ensure that Social Security, Veterans Affairs (VA), and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries automatically receive the COVID-19 relief stimulus payments that they are entitled to. Additionally, Senator Hassan worked across the aisle to include her bipartisan bill to allow eligible small employers to both participate in the Paycheck Protection Program and also claim the Employee Retention Tax Credit to help keep workers on payroll and pay for their health care coverage. Currently, small employers cannot participate in both of these programs.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-pappas-statement-president-trump-signing-covid-19-and-government-funding,Rep. Pappas Statement on President Trump Signing COVID-19 and Government Funding Legislation Into Law,2020-12-27,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01)released the following statement after President Trump signed theConsolidated Appropriations Act, 2021into law: While I am pleased that President Trump has finally signed the COVID-19 relief and government funding legislation into law, he should never have held up this crucial bill that Congress negotiated with his administration on a bipartisan basis. It was simply a dereliction of duty for him to play politics during a national crisis,said Congressman Pappas.Now that this bill is law and will provide badly needed support for small businesses, workers, and families, it is time for everyone to put politics aside and keep working. This package is a bridge to next year, and we will need additional federal support to ensure that we can soundly defeat this virus, rebuild our economy, get our communities back on their feet. I will continue to work with Republicans and Democrats to protect Americans' lives and livelihoods and provide every resource available to ensure we weather this storm.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-condemns-president-trumps-veto-critical-bipartisan-national-defense-bill,"Pappas Condemns President Trump's Veto of Critical, Bipartisan National Defense Bill",2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement after President Trump vetoed the National Defense Authorization Act of 2021: At a time when our nation faces unprecedented challenges at home and abroad, President Trump's reckless and irresponsible veto of the National Defense Authorization Act only serves to create more instability and hinder our ability to keep America safe, said Congressman Chris Pappas. The President's veto hurts U.S. service members, puts our national security in jeopardy, and delays funding important initiatives, including cleaning up PFAS contamination at military sites like the former Pease Air Force Base. This legislation passed with overwhelming, bipartisan support in both houses of Congress, and vetoing it serves only to delay these critical funds from being distributed - including pay raises for our military members serving in harm's way. That is why when the vote is called, I will return to Washington to stand with our service members and vote to override President Trump's veto. I urge my colleagues in both parties to do the same. This year's NDAA includes several provisions Pappas fought for including: Help for military installations to clean up PFAS contamination and expand federal efforts to research the health implications of PFAS $160 million for projects at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard which will allow itto continue playing a critical role in our nation's military readiness Stopping a DOD plan that would bar veterans and active duty family members from accessing military treatment facilities across the country, including in Portsmouth. Read more about the NDAA here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/12/23/2020/shaheen-bill-to-stop-student-debt-relief-scams-signed-into-law,Shaheen Bill to Stop Student Debt Relief Scams Signed into Law,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Bill to Stop Student Debt Relief Scams Signed into Law December 23, 2020 **The new law will provide more tools to identify and shut down fraudsters who hurt borrowers** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement after her bipartisan legislation with U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Mike Braun (R-IN) and Deb Fischer (R-RE) was signed into law. TheStop Student Debt Relief Scams Actwill expand and enhance efforts to identify and shut down student debt relief scams. The federal government has an obligation to help protect students and their families from criminals who seek to defraud and exploit borrowers' financial hardships for their own illegal gain. That's exactly what this new law will help do,said Shaheen. This new law will invest in prevention efforts to interdict debt relief scams and hold perpetrators accountable. I'm encouraged by the strong bipartisan support for our legislation and hope we can continue to build on that bipartisanship to tackle debt relief and higher education affordability so together we can better help our working families. With Americans facingmore than$1.7trillion in student loan debt, borrowers are looking for relief wherever they can find it. Debt relief scams falsely promise borrowers a quick fix with little hassle. These schemes robocall student loan borrowers until they agree to pay thousands of dollars in unnecessary fees for services that are available for free, claiming to reduce or forgive borrowers' student debt. In a March 2018 report, the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Inspector General recommended that Congress strengthen federal law to help stop scam artists that fraudulently obtain access to a borrower's online login credentials, primarily by imposing meaningful financial penalties and prosecuting individuals and entities perpetrating these scams. TheStop Student Debt Relief Scams Actwill accelerate the end to this rampant misconduct. TheStop Student Debt Relief Scams Actwill enhance law enforcement and administrative abilities to identify and shut down student debt relief scams. Specifically, the new law will: Clarify that it is a federal crime to access U.S. Department of Education information technology systems for fraud, commercial advantage, or private financial gain, and impose fines on scammers for violations of the law; Direct the U.S. Department of Education to create a new form of third-party access, akin to the current preparer function on the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) for those applying on behalf of a student and their family, in order to protect legitimate organizations; Require the U.S. Department of Education to maintain common-sense reporting, detection, and prevention activities to stop potential or known debt relief scams; and Require student loan exit counseling to warn federal loan borrowers about debt relief scams. This law is endorsed by the Education Finance Council, Generation Progress, National Consumer Law Center(on behalf of its low-income clients), National Council of Higher Education Resources, Student Loan Servicing Alliance, The Institute for College Access and Success, and Young Invincibles. More information about this new law is availablehere. The full text is availablehere. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-slams-trump-for-denying-service-members-pay-raise-and-compromising-national-security-objectives-calls-on-congress-to-stand-firm-and-override-ndaa-veto,"Shaheen Slams Trump for Denying Service Members Pay Raise & Compromising National Security Objectives, Calls on Congress to Stand Firm and Override NDAA Veto",2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Slams Trump for Denying Service Members Pay Raise & Compromising National Security Objectives, Calls on Congress to Stand Firm and Override NDAA Veto December 23, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator JeanneShaheen(D-NH),a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement after President Trump vetoed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year (FY) 2021. The annual legislation authorizes national defense objectives for the fiscal year and has historically been a successful bipartisan effort. The defense bill for FY2021 contained numerous priorities secured or supported by Shaheen that invest in New Hampshire's role in support of our national defense and shore up the United States' national security structures and programming. The President just denied our troops a well-deserved pay raise and deprived New England's Portsmouth Naval Shipyard of significant federal investments. He also blocked important national security provisions to counter aggression from our adversaries like Russia and China and sabotaged other critical bipartisan measures that would safeguard our defense structures. All of this because he has a gripe with social media companies for holding him responsible for spreading disinformation on his social media platforms. This isn't just shameful it is downright dangerous, said Shaheen. The Kremlin is actively attacking our cyber networks. Instead of standing up for our national security, the President is downplaying Russia's involvement which contradicts U.S. intelligence and now he just vetoed legislation that contains actionable items that we can use to hold Putin accountable for this kind of belligerent behavior. The FY21 NDAA cleared Congress with overwhelming bipartisan support and a veto-proof majority in both chambers. I urge lawmakers in the House and Senate to stand firm in their decisions and override the President's veto. This isn't about politics, this is about the security of the United States and the safety of our men and women in uniform. We cannot allow that to be compromised by the President's thin skin. Enough is enough. Here is a list of New Hampshire priorities and national security objectives that Senator Shaheen secured or supported in the FY2021 NDAA that President Trump just vetoed. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/heading-to-presidents-desk-shaheen-secures-50m-to-construct-new-england-drug-lab-to-improve-response-to-substance-use-disorder-crisis,Heading to President’s Desk: Shaheen Secures $50M to Construct New England Drug Lab to Improve Response to Substance Use Disorder Crisis,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Heading to President's Desk: Shaheen Secures $50M to Construct New England Drug Lab to Improve Response to Substance Use Disorder Crisis December 22, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator JeanneShaheen(D-NH)-the Vice Chair of the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (CJS) Appropriations Subcommittee-which funds significant programming to address the substance use disorder epidemic,issued the following statement afterfinalfiscal year (FY) 2021governmentfunding legislationwassent to the President's desk to besigned into law.Through her leadership on theCJSsubcommittee,SenatorShaheensuccessfully added measures that provide federal support for key programs that respond to the substance use disorder crisis, help domestic and sexual violence survivors, invest in law enforcement programs and much more. ""The provisions Iwrotewith Senator Moran and our fellow CJS subcommittee members address a myriad of issues impactingGranite Staters,including efforts toconfrontthe substance use disorder crisis, resources for domestic and sexual violence survivors, increasedmental health care services for first responders, enhanced community policing and much more,saidShaheen.The priorities in this bill respond to what I've heard in New Hampshire andwhatI know many Americans are experiencing throughout the country, much of which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 crisis. I'm particularly pleased that my provisionproviding fundingto construct New England's first DEA drug lab was approved, which will help close a serious gap in our substance use disorder response strategy.Currently,DEAsamples that may contain fentanyl must be transported by ground to New York and back, delaying testing and wasting valuable time.Establishing a DEA drug lab in our regionwill ensure our law enforcement are as efficient as possible in their efforts and will help alleviate the significant delays we've seen at theoverwhelmedNew York facility.I'm so pleased thisbillwillsoon become law and look forward to seeing construction on this lab get underway so our region can continue to improve its response strategy to the substance use disorder epidemic. SenatorShaheenwas also a lead negotiatoron the COVID-19 relief included in thelegislation, steering negotiations on the provisions to assist small businesses and child care centers, and to respond to the food insecurity and substance use disorder crisis that have been exacerbated by COVID. Read more about thathere. A senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee,Shaheenalso worked to support numerous key New Hampshire priorities addressed inthe final government funding bill, including a 3 percent pay raise for service members, investments at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, continued funding for the PFAS health impact studyShaheenestablished and much more. NH Priorities Secured byShaheenin FY21 Senate Commerce, Justice, Science & Related Agencies Subcommittee Appropriations Legislation: Critical Funding for Department of Justice Anti-Opioid Grants SenatorShaheensuccessfully included $541.5million for the Department of Justice anti-opioidand substance abusegrant programs, which is an increase of $23.5millionabove theFY2020 level.Shaheenalso successfully retained language sheadded last yearto allow grant recipients to be able to use Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant and Substance Abuse Program (COSSAP) funding which this year will be up to $185 million to also help those suffering from meth and cocaine dependency, in addition to opioid use disorder. The expanded coverage for COSSAP was spurred byShaheen'sstandalone bill, theTurn the Tide Act, to help tackle the substance use disorder epidemic. As the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds major anti-opioid programs,Shaheenhas led efforts in Congress to combat the substance use disorder epidemic. In the FY2018 omnibus government funding bill,Shaheenhelped secure the additional $3.3 billion to combat the substance use disorder crisis, including the $142 million set-asidefor hardest-hit states. As a result of the New Hampshire congressional delegation's efforts, New Hampshirereceiveda more thanten-fold increasein opioid treatment funding through the State Opioid Response (SOR) grant program. New DEA Drug Laboratory in New England SenatorShaheensuccessfully secured $50 million in this legislation for the Drug Enforcement Administration(DEA) to construct a new drug laboratory in New England, which presently does not have one, to improve lab testing in the region. Currently, if aDEAsample may contain fentanyl it must be transported separately by ground transportation tothelaboratory in New York City due to laws prohibiting its transfer through the mail. This process has been incredibly difficult for the region because agents must physically transport any samples that might contain fentanyl, resulting in hours of travel to New York City and back. The New York Division is also one of the busiest for DEA, and a lab in New England will help both Divisions meet drug testing demands. Grant Funding for States to Improve Mental Health Services for Law Enforcement & Enhancing Police-Community Relations SenatorShaheensuccessfully added $8million for the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act, which includes grant funding for state and local law enforcement agencies to use for improved mental health services for officers, training to reduce the stigma of officers seeking help and programs to address handling repeated exposure to stress and trauma.Shaheenboosted this investment by $3millionover previous funding levels. In last year's legislation,Shaheenincluded language directing the Department of Justice to for the first time collect data on law enforcement suicides and report on it. SenatorShaheensuccessfully retained that directive in this government funding legislation and added $3 million for the Bureau of Justice Statistics to carry out this measure. SenatorShaheenalso added $153.5million in Department of Justice (DOJ) grants to improve police-community relations, which is an increase of $67millionor 77%above the FY2020 level. The legislation also includes $5 million for the DOJ to create and maintain a database to track excessive use of force and officer misconduct to increase transparency and accountability so officers who've committed violations cannot move from department to department undetected. Additionally, SenatorShaheenfought to include $237million in COPS Hiring Program grants, which support state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies' ability to hire, preserve and/or rehire law enforcement officers and to increase community policing efforts. This is a $2million increase over previous funding levels. The legislation also includes $484million for the Byrne-Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program, which helps law enforcement agencies in New Hampshire and across the country, strengthens the criminal justice system and bolsters services for victims of crime. Highest Funding Level Ever for Violence Against Women Act Programs For the fourth yearin a row, SenatorShaheensuccessfully added the highest funding amount ever for Violence Against Women Act programs, totaling $513.5 million for the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW). This funding legislation boosts funding to eight OVW programs, including the Transitional Housing Program and Rural Program, two key areas with a high need that will help states like New Hampshire. In September,Shaheen announced more than $1 millionfor New Hampshire organizations to provide transitional housing and other housing assistance to domestic and sexual violence survivors. Examine Safety of Firefighters' Personal Equipment Shaheenincluded $2 million for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) personal protective equipment research. Last year,Shaheenintroducedthe Guaranteeing Equipment Safetyfor Firefighters Act,bipartisan legislationwith Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO),whichwould take important steps to address concerns regarding firefighters' occupational exposure to PFAS chemicals through their personal protective equipment.This legislation was passed by Congress earlier this month as part of theannual defense authorizationpackage. SenatorShaheenhas led efforts in Congress to address PFAS exposure, and specifically, occupational exposure to the chemicals.Last year's defense billincludedShaheen'sbipartisan legislation, theProtecting Military Firefighters from PFAS Act, requiring the Department of Defense (DOD) to include blood testing for PFAS as part of routine physicals for military firefighters, as well as a provision authored byShaheenthat would phase out the use of PFAS in DOD firefighting foams by 2024. Shaheenestablished the first-ever nationwide PFAS health impact studyin the FY 2018 annual defense bill and fought for Pease InternationalTradeportto be included in the study.Because of her efforts, Pease is serving as a model site for the nationwide study. The study atPeaseis activelyseeking participants. Continued Financial Relief for New Hampshire and New England Fishermen & Bolstered Investments for NH Ocean Research and Conservation Efforts SenatorShaheenhasrepeatedlypreventedthe National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)from imposing the costly at-sea monitoringfee on Granite State fishermen and once again secured necessary funding to prevent the burden from being imposed on fishermen. The bill includes $10.3 million to cover the observer fees, as well as $2 million for lobster research, $2.5 million for New England groundfish research and $5 million for research and monitoring of the highly-endangered North Atlantic Right Whale, including a pilot program into innovative lobster gear.SenatorShaheenalso led bipartisan negotiationson COVID-19 reliefto provide $13 billion for support for agriculture and fisheries. Shaheensuccessfully increased funding for Sea Grant by $1million, totaling $75million nationally.Shaheenworked to include a new $500,000 set aside for research into PFAS impacts on coastal waters. Sea Grant is a public-private partnership and collaborates with the University of New Hampshire to study marine and coastal resources and developments. Additionally, the bill includes $78.5 million for NOAA's Coastal Zone Management Grant program, which is a $1.5 million increase over previous funding levelsand temporarily removes State cost share requirements during the pandemic. This legislation also boosts funding for NOAA's National Estuarine Research Reserve System operations by $1 million, which supportsNew Hampshire's Great Bay.SenatorShaheenalso worked to secure $182million for NOAA climate research,a $12.5 million or seven percent increase above the fiscal year 2020 level,rejectingthe Trump administration's effort to cut the program by $85 million in its budget proposal. Increased Funding for the Economic Development Administration SenatorShaheensecured $346 million for the Economic Development Administration (EDA), which awards infrastructure and planning grants to communities around the country. This level isan increase of $13 million above the prior year.Shaheenalso included language directing EDA,inpartnership with the Northern Border Regional Commission, to provide federalresourcesfor communities impacted by forest product closures. The Senatorhasconsistently opposed efforts by the administration to reduce or eliminate funding for the EDA,which in recent years has awarded grants to Granite State communities for a wide variety of projects ranging fromsupporting manufacturing growth in Winchestertoestablishing a revolving loan fund for businesses in Rockingham County. Bolsters Research to Understand the Sun and its Impacts on Earth SenatorShaheenincluded $751million for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA)HeliophysicsDivision to study the Sun and its impact on the space environment around the Earth. The results of these studies improve our understanding of the universe and Earth's magnetic field and can help protect astronauts, satellites and communication signals, such as GPS, in space. This funding represents a $26.5 million increase above the FY2020 level and rejects the Trump administration's efforts to cut the program by $91.4 million. The University of New Hampshire is a leading institution inHeliophysicsresearch with instruments on 16 of 22 operatingheliophysicsmissions.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-nh-priorities-and-urgently-needed-emergency-covid-19-relief-to-be-signed-into-law,Shaheen NH Priorities & Urgently Needed Emergency COVID-19 Relief to be Signed into Law,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen NH Priorities & Urgently Needed Emergency COVID-19 Relief to be Signed into Law December 22, 2020 **Shaheen successfully helped secure numerous NH priorities in government funding legislation that will soon be signed into law, including assistance for first responders, pay raise for troops, construction of DEA New England drug lab & more.** **The FY2021 government funding legislation also includes critical COVID-19 relief Shaheen negotiated to help small businesses and child care providers and to combat the substance use disorder epidemic and food insecurity crisis** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement after government funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2021 was sent to the President's desk to be signed into law. In the legislation, Senator Shaheen included and supported numerous measures that invest in important New Hampshire and national priorities and deliver urgently needed COVID-19 relief. ""The annual appropriations process presents an important opportunity to address the pressing challenges that are top of mind for Granite Staters. The legislation that will soon be signed into law meets the mark and retains measures I fought to secure, including support for our first responders on the frontlines of the pandemic, investments that strengthen New Hampshire's role in support of our national defense and additional resources to help combat the substance use disorder epidemic, which has been exacerbated by COVID-19,"" said Shaheen. ""As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I also worked to include federal resources to address safety concerns regarding firefighters' exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals through their protective gear, continued financial relief for our fishermen and much more. Perhaps most of all, I appreciate the bipartisan efforts that went into writing and including the urgently needed COVID-19 relief that's been added to this legislation. This relief is an important first step but our work is far from over. Congress needs to channel the same bipartisan spirit in January and work in good-faith, across party lines and with the new administration to finish what we started and deliver the long-term assistance our communities need to recover from this crisis. I'm ready to get work and will push lawmakers of both parties and in both chambers to join me. SENATOR SHAHEEN HELPED LEAD NEGOTIATIONS ON COVID-19 RELIEF IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS $325 Billion in Assistance for Small Businesses Senator Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, once again led bipartisan negotiations on the small business provisions in the new COVID-19 relief. The package, which includes provisions from Shaheen's HEROES Small Business Lifeline Act, would provide $284 billion to extend the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and allow many small businesses and nonprofits access to a second round of PPP loans. The legislation also expands PPP eligibility for 501(c)(6) nonprofits, including tourism organizations and local chambers of commerce, and makes critical policy changes to the program to better serve the restaurant and hospitality industries, which have been among those hardest-hit by the pandemic. To date, nearly 25,000 New Hampshire small businesses and non-profits have received over $2.5 billion in PPP assistance. Additionally, the relief bill includes $20 billion for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) emergency grant program and $3.5 billion to extend the Debt Relief Program established under the CARES Act to cover the principal, interest and fees on all pre-existing and new Small Business Administration (SBA)-backed loans. Shaheen also worked to establish new SBA grants for shuttered live venues, independent movie theaters and other cultural institutions. As a cosponsor of the Save our Stages Act and the Entertainments New Credit Opportunity for Relief and Economic Sustainability (ENCORES) Act, Shaheen has prioritized efforts to help this important sector of the state's economy recoup some of the losses they have experienced due to canceled events. Finally, the small business relief provisions include numerous changes - such as fee waivers, increased guarantee amounts and simpler refinancing - to core SBA programs like the 7(a), 504, Community Advantage and Microloan programs to make them more affordable and useful for small businesses. Supporting Vaccine Distribution, COVID-19 Testing, and Substance Use Disorder Treatment After leading 17 of her Senate colleagues in calling for more drug and alcohol treatment funding earlier this year, Shaheen worked tirelessly during the Senate negotiations on the COVID-19 relief package to ensure that the bill included robust funding for substance use disorder treatment and mental health services. The COVID relief package provides $4.25 billion in funding for substance use disorder treatment and mental health care, recognizing that the COVID-19 pandemic can compound the nation's substance use disorder epidemic. This additional funding builds on Shaheen's ongoing effort to make certain that New Hampshire has the resources it needs to fight the substance use disorder epidemic. This included her successful effort to pass into law provisions from her Turn the Tide Act, which helped provide new flexibility for New Hampshire in the use of State Opioid Response (SOR) grants to treat methamphetamine and cocaine misuse, in addition to opioid misuse. Shaheen also led efforts in Congress to ensure that there was a 15 percent set-aside within the SOR grant program for the hardest-hit states like New Hampshire that have the highest per capita overdose death rates. As a result of these efforts, New Hampshire has received approximately $92 million in opioid response grants in the past four years. During negotiations, Shaheen also strongly supported more funding for distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, as well as funds for testing and contact tracing. The bill includes $8.75 billion for vaccine distribution and $22.4 billion for testing, contact tracing and COVID-19 mitigation. In her letter to Senate and House leadership outlining her health care priorities for a COVID-19 relief package earlier this year, Shaheen made more funding for testing and contact tracing a top priority. $26 billion for Agriculture and Nutrition Assistance Senator Shaheen led bipartisan negotiations to provide $13 billion for nutrition assistance and $13 billion for support for agriculture and fisheries. Last week, Shaheen highlighted the urgent need to provide additional food assistance in COVID-19 relief to help struggling Granite State families during a virtual meeting with New Hampshire nutrition and food security organizations. She successfully secured critical assistance for hungry families, including a 15 percent increase to individual SNAP benefits for six months, more than $1 billion in emergency funding for food banks and for school and child care meal providers, an expansion of the Pandemic-EBT program to include families with young children, $400 million for food banks and $175 million for senior nutrition services, including Meals on Wheels. She also secured funding to support diverse sectors of agriculture, including designated assistance for dairy farmers, fruit and vegetable growers and local food systems, as well as $300 million for fisheries, of which New Hampshire will receive $3 million. $10 Billion for Child Care Senator Shaheen negotiated $10 billion in emergency funds for child care businesses through the Child Care and Developmental Block Grant (CCDBG) program. These funds maintain the flexibility given to states through the CARES Act and can be used to provide child care assistance to families and support to child care providers in meeting their increased operating costs during the pandemic. The legislation ensures that states provide assistance to child care providers who have not previously received assistance through CCDBG and provide technical assistance to support child care providers in accessing grant funding. The bill also allows states to expand child care assistance to essential workers and to provide child care payment relief to working families. The bill additionally includes $250 million for Head Start programs to ensure they are able to continue to safely serve low-income children and families throughout the pandemic. Providing Smaller States Access to Financial Support for Community Services Senator Shaheen secured the inclusion of her bipartisan legislation that unlocks $3.625 million in supplemental funding for New Hampshire under the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG). Due to a technical drafting issue with the CARES Act, earlier this year the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) was forced to withhold $43 million in supplemental CSBG funding that would have otherwise gone to New Hampshire and eleven other small states. After hearing from Community Action Agencies in New Hampshire who had funds withheld, Shaheen worked with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) to lead legislation in the Senate to fix the drafting issue. Shaheen worked to ensure that this fix was included in the final COVID-19 relief legislation. This fix ensures that New Hampshire will receive the extra $3.625 million. NH & NATIONAL PRIORITIES INCLUDED IN FY2021 GOVERNMENT FUNDING LEGISLATION Pay Increase for Service Members Shaheen supported a 3 percent pay increase for service members. Support for Military Spouse Occupational Licensing Senator Shaheen secured $2.75 million to implement her bipartisan legislation with Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) that will improve the transferability of military spouses' occupational licenses, and also help alleviate the burden spouses endure if they're small business owners from having to constantly re-register their businesses as they move from state to state with their families. This legislation was signed into law in 2019 as part of the final FY2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). At a press conference last May, Shaheen highlighted the story of Andrea Krull, whose husband is a Granite Stater, and her personal experience of having to continuously re-establish her business as a consultant with every move. Military Readiness Priorities for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Senator Shaheen supported the inclusion of $160 million for the Multi-Mission Dry Dock project at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. In the final version of the FY2021 NDAA that cleared Congress, Shaheen a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee supported the provision that authorizes this funding. Senator Shaheen also secured funding for the procurement of two new Virginia-class submarinewhich are repaired and maintained at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Shaheen has long been a steadfast supporter of the Virginia-class, and a fierce advocate for Shipyard priorities. Strengthen the Shipbuilding Industrial Base Senator Shaheen, co-chair of the Senate Navy Caucus, supported the inclusion of $20 million for submarine workforce development training and $130 million for submarine industrial base expansion. Investments at Pease Air National Guard Base Senator Shaheen successfully worked to include funding for 15 KC-46 Pegasus refueling tankers. Thanks to strong advocacy by Senator Shaheen and the New Hampshire National Guard, Pease was selected as the Air Force's first Air National Guard KC-46 main operating base, an economic benefit to Pease and the surrounding community. The KC-46 replaces the Air Force's 1950's-era aerial refueling fleet of KC-135s and will serve as the backbone of American air operations for decades to come. The last KC-135 departed Pease last year to make way for the KC-46. Federal Assistance for the Beyond Yellow Ribbon' Program to Help Granite State Service Members & Families Senator Shaheen helped secure $22 million for the Beyond Yellow Ribbon (BYR) program, which funds the New Hampshire National Guard's Care Coordination Program. BYR programs provide outreach services to troops returning from deployment, including health care, marriage and financial counseling, substance misuse treatment and mental health services. Support to Process Military Records Requests Senator Shaheen supported the inclusion of $50 million in emergency funding for the National Archives and Records Administration's Records Center Revolving Fund to offset losses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. These funds will assist the Archives in processing backlogged requests for military service records. Veterans often need access to these records prior to receiving important benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs that they have earned. As a result of the pandemic, the Archives has struggled to process requests for these records and veterans have faced delays in securing their benefits. Senator Shaheen previously wrote a letter to the Archivist expressing concern about the delays in processing. Support for New Hampshire First Responders A member of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Shaheen worked to include $360 million for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. The AFG program provides direct financial assistance to eligible fire departments in order to enhance the safety of firefighters and the public. Shaheen frequently advocates for New Hampshire fire departments to receive awards through this program. The Senator also helped include $360 million for the Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response Grants (SAFER) program, which provides grants directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to help them increase or maintain the number of trained, ""front line"" firefighters available in their communities. In September, Shaheen announced more than $2 million in SAFER grants for the Hudson and Bedford Fire Departments. Additionally, Senator Shaheen fought to include a provision requiring the U.S. Fire Academy (USFA) to maintain a data set and report on firefighter suicides. It also directs USFA to include an assessment of the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) ability to require reporting of firefighter suicide data in applications for AFG grants and SAFER grants. Understanding the severe trauma and stress impacting police officers, firefighters and emergency personnel, Shaheen has made prioritizing suicide prevention efforts for first responders a top concern. Grant Funding for States to Improve Mental Health Services for Law Enforcement & Enhancing Police-Community Relations Senator Shaheen successfully added $8 million for the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act, which includes grant funding for state and local law enforcement agencies to use for improved mental health services, training to reduce stigma of officers seeking help and programs to address handling repeated exposure to stress and trauma. Additionally, Shaheen boosted federal investments by $3 million over previous funding levels. In last year's legislation, Shaheen included language directing the Department of Justice to for the first time collect data on law enforcement suicides and report on it. Senator Shaheen successfully retained that directive in this government funding legislation and added $3 million for the Bureau of Justice Statistics to carry out this measure. Senator Shaheen also added $153.5 million in Department of Justice (DOJ) grants to improve police-community relations, which is an increase of $67 million above the FY2020 level. The legislation also includes $5 million for the DOJ to create and maintain a database to track excessive use of force and officer misconduct to increase transparency and accountability so officers who've committed violations cannot move from department to department undetected. Additionally, Senator Shaheen fought to include $237 million in COPS Hiring Program grants, which support state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies' ability to hire, preserve and/or rehire law enforcement officers and to increase community policing efforts. This is a $2 million increase over previous funding levels. Critical Funding for Department of Justice Anti-Opioid Grants Senator Shaheen successfully procured $541.5 million for the Department of Justice anti-opioid and substance abuse grant programs, which is an increase of $23.5 million above FY2020 levels. Shaheen also successfully retained language she added last year to allow grant recipients to be able to use Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant and Substance Abuse Program (COSSAP) funding which this year will be up to $185 million to also help those suffering from meth and cocaine dependency, in addition to opioid use disorder. The expanded coverage for COSSAP was spurred by Shaheen's standalone bill, the Turn the Tide Act, to help tackle the substance use disorder epidemic. As the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds major anti-opioid programs, Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to combat the substance use disorder epidemic. In the FY2018 omnibus government funding bill, Shaheen helped secure the additional $3.3 billion to combat the substance use disorder crisis, including the $142 million set-aside for hardest-hit states. As a result of the New Hampshire congressional delegation's efforts, New Hampshire received a more than ten-fold increase in opioid treatment funding through the State Opioid Response (SOR) grant program. Continued Federal Investments for Law Enforcement & Community Prevention Efforts to Combat the Drug Epidemic Senator Shaheen worked to procure $290 million for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program, which provides assistance to federal, state and local law enforcement agencies operating in areas determined to be critical drug-trafficking regions in the United States. Shaheen has previously visited the New England HIDTA headquarters to meet with law enforcement about ongoing efforts to reduce the trafficking of illicit drugs within the region. She also ensured that the bill includes language barring the administration from moving the HIDTA program from the Office of National Drug Control Policy to the Drug Enforcement Administration. New DEA Drug Laboratory in New England Senator Shaheen successfully secured $50 million in the final FY2021 government funding legislation for the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to construct a new drug laboratory in New England, which presently does not have one, to improve lab testing in the region. Currently, if a DEA sample may contain fentanyl it must be transported separately by ground transportation to a drug laboratory in New York City due to laws prohibiting its transfer through the mail. This process has been incredibly difficult for the region because agents must physically transport any samples that might contain fentanyl, resulting in hours of travel to New York City and back. The New York Division is also one of the busiest for the DEA, and a lab in New England will help both Divisions meet drug testing demands. Investments in VA Opioid Prevention & Treatment Programs Senator Shaheen supported the inclusion of $503.6 million for opioid prevention and treatment programs at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which is $104 million higher than last year's funding levels. Shaheen also successfully added a provision that encourages the VA to expand the use of alternative treatments for pain management, including by expanding acupuncture in VA facilities. A leader in the Senate on efforts to respond to the substance misuse epidemic, Shaheen previously introduced the Acupuncture for our Heroes Act to expand access to acupuncturist services for veterans enrolled in the VA health care system. According to a report by the Veterans Health Administration, 80 percent of VA providers identified acupuncture as one of the top three services most often requested by veterans. Currently, only 60 percent of VA health centers provide often limited acupuncture services on site, and 14 percent do not provide acupuncture services at all. Support for Community Coalitions to Prevent & Reduce Substance Misuse Senator Shaheen advocated for $102 million for the Drug Free Communities (DFC) Program, which provides grants to local community coalitions to prevent and reduce youth substance misuse. Senator Shaheen has consistently advocated for the DFC program and has led efforts in the Senate to respond to the opioid crisis. Shaheen recently announced a $250,000 DFC grant for Keene and the Upper Valley region. She has hosted DFC roundtable discussions with local students, school administrators, community leaders and youth advocates in Woodsville as well as Milford, where she joined the New Hampshire congressional delegation and ONDCP Director Jim Carroll. Funding for State Opioid Response Grants Senator Shaheen once again successfully advocated for the inclusion of $1.5 billion in State Opioid Response (SOR) grant funding, as well as the continuing of a 15 percent set-aside of those funds for hardest hit states, like New Hampshire, with the highest opioid overdose death rates. Over the past four years, New Hampshire has received approximately $92 million from these grants to combat the opioid epidemic in the state, with the hardest-hit state set-aside responsible for the majority of those funds. The bill also continues to provide flexibility provisions authored by Senator Shaheen that allow for SOR grant dollars to be used to support treatment and recovery for cocaine and methamphetamine misuse, in addition to opioid misuse. Banning Surprise Medical Bills Senator Shaheen strongly supported the successful effort to ensure that the government funding legislation includes a landmark ban on surprise medical bills. Shaheen had heard from countless Granite Staters who, through no fault of their own, have been saddled with sky-high medical bills from out-of-network physicians and other medical providers, despite diligently seeking care at in-network hospitals and emergency rooms. In 2018 and again as a part of her health care affordability package in 2019, Senator Shaheen introduced the Reducing Costs for Out-of-Network Services Act, which would establish caps on how much hospitals, physicians and other medical providers could charge patients for out-of-network care. In 2019, Senator Shaheen took to the Senate floor to call out efforts from private equity firms on Wall Street who were using dark money attack ads to try and derail progress on surprise medical billing reform. This legislation prohibits physicians, ambulances and other providers from engaging in surprise medical billing and establishes a process for insurers and health care providers to resolve disputes over out-of-network bills while holding the patient harmless. Bolster Federal Housing Assistance Resources for Granite Staters in Recovery Shaheen pushed to increase federal support in this funding legislation to provide housing assistance for Granite Staters and Americans across the country who are in recovery due to substance misuse through the SUPPORT Act. As a result of Shaheen's advocacy, funding for this program has been increased by $5 million to $30 million and based on the funding formula used, New Hampshire could receive up to $1.4 million in FY2021, $250,000 more than FY2020. Report on VA Community Care Provider Backlog Senator Shaheen successfully included a provision in the legislation directing the VA to provide Congress with a report on the Department's plan to fully eliminate the backlog in community care provider claims. The report will include the number of outstanding claims nationally and within each Veterans Integrated Service Network, the date by which the VA determines it will eliminate the backlog, additional resources the VA needs to eliminate the backlog and a plan to ensure that future backlogs are prevented or addressed within a reasonable time. Continued Financial Relief for New Hampshire and New England Fishermen & Bolstered Investments for NH Ocean Research and Conservation Efforts Senator Shaheen has repeatedly prevented the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) from imposing the costly at-sea monitoring fee on Granite State fishermen and once again secured necessary funding to prevent the burden from being imposed on fishermen. The bill includes $10.3 million to cover the observer fees, as well as $2 million for lobster research, $2.5 million for New England groundfish research and $5 million for research and monitoring of the highly-endangered North Atlantic Right Whale, including continuing a pilot program into innovative lobster gear. Shaheen successfully increased funding for Sea Grant by $1 million, totaling $75 million nationally. Shaheen worked to include a new $500,000 set aside for research into per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) impacts on coastal waters. Sea Grant is a public-private partnership and collaborates with the University of New Hampshire to study marine and coastal resources and developments. Additionally, the bill includes $78.5 million for NOAA's Coastal Zone Management Grant program, which is a $1.5 million increase over previous funding levels. This legislation also boosts funding for NOAA's National Estuarine Research Reserve System operations by $1 million. This is important for New Hampshire's Great Bay, which would be eligible for this pool of federal resources. Senator Shaheen also worked to secure $182 million for NOAA climate research, an increase of $12.5 million or 7 percent, rejecting the Trump administration's effort to cut the program by $85 million in its budget proposal. Additional Federal Resources to Coast Guard Fishing Safety Training & Research Grants Senator Shaheen worked to include $6 million for Coast Guard fishing safety training and research grants. Last year, Shaheen introduced bipartisan legislation with Senators Markey (D-MA), Sullivan (R-AK), King (I-ME), Collins (R-ME), Murkowski (R-AK), Warren (D-MA) and Hassan (D-NH) the Funding Instruction for Safety Health, and Security Avoids Fishing Emergencies (FISH SAFE) Act which would restore the size of the federal share of fishing safety training and research grants. Understanding the daunting conditions that fishermen face on the job, Senator Shaheen has worked across the aisle to support fishing safety programs. Addressing PFAS and Contaminants of Emerging Concern Senator Shaheen helped add more than $50 million to support funding for research, addressing contamination, and undertaking regulatory actions at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) related to PFAS and other contaminants of emerging concern. This includes an additional $2.7 million for the USGS to continue work to examine and test PFAS substances in watersheds and aquifers. This funding also supports the EPA's research and regulatory work to establish water standards for PFAS, as well as $20 million to support state efforts to address PFAS through remediation and cleanup. Continued Investments in Shaheen's PFAS Health Impact Study Senator Shaheen has spearheaded efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to PFAS contamination, respond to the chemical exposure and remediate polluted sites. In the government funding legislation, Senator Shaheen successfully fought to include $15 million to continue the PFAS health impact study that she created in the 2018 NDAA. Senator Shaheen also worked to include $205 million for PFAS remediation. In last year's government funding legislation, she secured numerous provisions that were signed into law to address PFAS contamination. At Senator Shaheen's insistence, this legislation also includes $1 million in funding for new grants from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to support the development of education courses on best practices for physicians who are caring for patients with significant PFAS exposure. Senator Shaheen and Senator Rounds (R-SD) previously partnered to introduce bipartisan legislation that would create grants for these best practices courses. Encourage VA to Establish a PFAS Registry for Veterans Shaheen successfully added language to the legislation that encourages the VA to establish and maintain a registry for veterans who may have been exposed to PFAS due to occupational exposure to aqueous film forming foam during their military service. Shaheen's provision also encourages the VA to develop a public information campaign to inform eligible individuals about the registry. Shaheen has championed the PFAS Registry Act, which would create a national database for service members and veterans experiencing health problems possibly due to contamination from PFAS. The bill would allow military personnel and veterans to receive updates on recent scientific developments on the effects of PFAS exposure, availability of possible treatment options, and information on what resources may be available to address their health concerns. Examine Safety of Firefighters' Personal Equipment Shaheen included $2 million for PFAS personal protective equipment research at the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Last year, Shaheen introduced the Guaranteeing Equipment Safety for Firefighters Act, bipartisan legislation with Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO) that would take important steps to address concerns regarding firefighters' occupational exposure to PFAS chemicals through their personal protective equipment. This legislation was passed by Congress earlier this month as part of the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act. Senator Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to address PFAS exposure, and specifically, occupational exposure to the chemicals. Last year's defense bill included Shaheen's bipartisan legislation, the Protecting Military Firefighters from PFAS Act, requiring the Department of Defense (DOD) to include blood testing for PFAS as part of routine physicals for military firefighters, as well as a provision authored by Shaheen that would phase out the use of PFAS in DOD firefighting foams by 2024. Shaheen established the first-ever nationwide PFAS health impact study in the FY2018 annual defense bill and fought for Pease International Tradeport to be included in the study. Because of her efforts, Pease is serving as a model site for the nationwide study. The study at Pease is actively seeking participants. Improve Access to Quality Health Care for Women Veterans Senator Shaheen supported efforts to prioritize $661 million in this appropriations legislation for women veterans' health care. Women make up approximately 15 percent of current U.S. military personnel and are enrolling for VA benefits at record levels. Over the years, the VA has worked to improve services, resources, facilities and its workforce to make health care more accessible for women veterans; however, there is much that still needs to be done. Women veterans require gender-specific health care services and this funding would help the VA should continue its efforts to provide the necessary resources to provide such care. Highest Funding Level Ever for Violence Against Women Act Programs For the fourth year in a row, Senator Shaheen successfully added the highest funding amount ever for Violence Against Women Act programs, totaling $513.5 million for the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW). The funding legislation released today boosts funding to eight OVW programs, including the Transitional Housing Program and Rural Program, two key areas with high need that will help states like New Hampshire. In September, Shaheen announced more than $1 million for New Hampshire organizations to provide transitional housing and other housing assistance to domestic and sexual violence survivors. In this funding legislation, Senator Shaheen worked to secure $21.5 million for the Intimate Partner Violence Program. The VA Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Program addresses the identification of IPV and access to services for veterans with the aim of maintaining or establishing the physical, emotional and psychological safety and well-being of veterans and their families. Program implementation expands screening, prevention and intervention services to veterans and strengthens collaboration with community partners, as well as with the Caregivers Support Program and VA programs to address homelessness. Robust Funding for Diabetes Research, Treatment and Prevention Shaheen helped ensure that this legislation included a long-term extension of funding for the Special Diabetes Program (SDP) and the Special Diabetes Program for Indians (SDPI). The SDP supports research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on treatments for Type 1 diabetes, while SDPI supports efforts to respond to high prevalence of diabetes among American Indians and Alaska Natives. As Co-Chairs of the Senate Diabetes Caucus, Senator Shaheen and Senator Collins led 66 of their Senate colleagues in an effort that resulted in a three-year extension of funding for both programs as a part of the government funding legislation. Funding for both programs was scheduled to expire this month. As a result of advocacy led by Senators Shaheen and Collins, the government funding legislation also includes increases in funding for the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) at NIH and an increase in funding for the National Diabetes Prevention Program. Highest Funding Level Ever for the Northern Border Regional Commission Senator Shaheen helped secure $30 million for the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC), which is a $5 million increase above the FY2020 funding level and the highest the program has ever been funded. President Trump's budget proposal sought to eliminate the program entirely. The NBRC helps address community and economic development needs throughout the Northern Forest region. In 2018, Senator Shaheen's bipartisan legislation to extend the authorization of the NBRC and expand its reach to include Cheshire County and communities in Belknap County was included the Farm Bill, which was signed into law. Language in the FY2021 funding bill provides NBRC $4 million to address the needs of rural communities impacted by forest product plant closures, $5 million to fund broadband initiatives and $1 million for the State Capacity Building Grant Program, which was established by Shaheen in 2018 to improve the region's capacity for business retention and expansion, increase access to high-speed broadband, and other critical infrastructure. Prioritization of Portsmouth-Piscataqua River Project Senator Shaheen helped procure $7.72 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers (the Corps) to complete necessary infrastructure projects in New Hampshire and across the country. This is $72.1 million above last year's funding level, and includes the funding for small harbors that require off-cycle, emergency dredging, like those in New Hampshire. Shaheen also included language reminding the Corps of the importance of the Portsmouth-Piscataqua River project, which has a high benefit-to-cost ratio and is eligible for construction funding. Once funding legislation is signed into law, the Corps will develop its Work Plan for FY2021, in which Senator Shaheen will continue to urge the Corps to prioritize the Portsmouth-Piscataqua River Project, much like she successfully did for the dredging of Rye and Hampton-Seabrook Harbors. Continued Support for Research and Development in Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy Programs Senator Shaheen worked to secure over $2.861 billion for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), which is an increase of over $71 million above last year's funding level. This includes $310 million for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), a program long-championed by Senator Shaheen that helps to lower energy costs for low-income families by making energy efficiency modifications to their homes. The bill also includes $62.5 million for the State Energy Program (SEP), which assists states with the development of energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Reauthorize Afghan Special Immigrant Visas and Ensure Proper Oversight over Afghanistan Operations As the lead in the Senate for the continuation of the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program, Senator Shaheen secured 4,000 additional Afghan SIVs in this spending legislation. The SIV program is the only path to ensuring the safety of Afghan allies that have aided U.S. service members and diplomats. Historically partnering with Senator John McCain (R-AZ) on this priority, Shaheen continues to lead bipartisan efforts in Congress to reauthorize additional Afghan SIVs. In addition, Senator Shaheen advanced language to increase transparency in U.S. government plans regarding Afghanistan and to compel the U.S. government to release details of any agreement with the Taliban and ensure that women's and minorities' rights are protected in any such agreement. Aligned with this priority, the bill includes Senator Shaheen's annual priority to devote funding to Afghan women's incorporation into Afghanistan's military and police structures. Protects Jobs at Portsmouth National Passport Center Senator Shaheen successfully added a provision that would grant the State Department emergency transfer authority and $300 million to continue necessary passport and visa services for Americanswhich directly impacts jobs at the National Passport Center (NPC) and the National Visa Center (NVC) in Portsmouth. Shaheen had previously urged congressional appropriations leadership to avert mass layoffs at the Portsmouth National Passport Center and provide COVID-19 financial relief to the Office of Passport Services, under which NPC operates. She had also called on Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to reevaluate these job cuts and help alleviate their impact, which resulted in a portion of these employees being asked to return to their jobs. Implementation of Shaheen Legislation to Bolster Women's Leadership in Peace Negotiations & Conflict Resolution In 2017, Senator Shaheen's bipartisan legislation with Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), the Women, Peace and Security Act, was signed into law, requiring the U.S. Government to actively work to promote the meaningful participation of women in conflict prevention and peace negotiationsfor the first time. To complement this mandate, Shaheen has secured funding for the last three years to implement key provisions of that bill at the Pentagon. This year, Shaheen has yet again secured a record amount, $8.25 million, to streamline women, peace and security priorities at the Department of Defense and to hire gender advisors, who amongst other duties, help conduct outreach to various populations in support of U.S. operations. The Women, Peace and Security Act ensures the United States continues to advocate for women's inclusion and engagement in security activities to prevent, moderate and resolve violent conflictworldwide and at home. In addition, Shaheen's annual request to prioritize women's inclusion in U.S. military education and training programs known as IMET was included and $3 million was added to advance this priority. As more women are included in these prestigious U.S. training programs for international militaries, more women will advance across the ranks of militaries worldwide.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/manchester-va-receive-covid-19-vaccine-week,Manchester VA To Receive COVID-19 Vaccine This Week,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"MANCHESTER, NH- Today,Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), a member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs and chairman of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, applauded the news that the VA Medical Center in Manchester is now one of 128 additional sites at which the Department of Veterans Affairs will provide COVID-19 vaccines. I am pleased that the Department of Veterans Affairs announced today that the VA Medical Center in Manchester is among hundreds of VA facilities receiving the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as this week,said Congressman Chris Pappas.It is critically important that VA health care workers and veterans in long term care units are able to receive the vaccine to keep themselves, their families, and their communities safe. This is welcome news, and I look forward to continuing to work with VA leadership to ensure a strong, sustained response to this pandemic. I will continue to work in a bipartisan fashion to ensure our veterans get the care and support they have earned and our health care workforce is protected in the job. Throughout this pandemic, Congressman Pappas has remained in close contact with the leadership of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Washington, the VA Medical Center in Manchester, VISN 1 VA New England Healthcare System, and local veteran service organizations to ensure that veterans have the resources and help they need, and to guarantee that plans are in place to deliver a vaccine to veterans as soon as possible after they are approved. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs announcement, 113 VA Medical Centers (VAMCs) and outpatient clinics will receive limited Moderna COVID-19 vaccine supplies this week, including Manchester. The VA will follow CDC guidelines and continue to vaccinate health care personnel, as well as community living center and spinal cord unit residents. As vaccine supplies increase, VA's ultimate goal is to offer COVID-19 vaccinations to all veterans and employees who want to be vaccinated. Veterans in the First District who need assistance with any federal issue, including VA health care and services, should contact Congressman Pappas's office at(603) 285-4300or visithttps://pappas.house.gov/contact/email-me. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-votes-bipartisan-covid-19-and-government-funding-packages-including-key,Pappas Votes for Bipartisan COVID-19 and Government Funding Packages Including Key New Hampshire Priorities,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Tonight,Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01)voted to pass bipartisan legislation to provide additional COVID-19 relief to Americans and fund critical government services and programs, including many New Hampshire priorities that he has strongly championed. It's about time,said Congressman Pappas. I am pleased that we passed a bipartisan compromise package to get badly-needed support to Granite Staters, but there is simply no reason it should have taken this long to act. I do not believe we would have arrived at this day without the strong push from rank-and-file members of both parties who knew we couldn't go home for the holidays without delivering crucial aid to our families, small businesses, and communities. No compromise is perfect, but this deal represents an important bridge to the new year where we will have to redouble our efforts to address the pandemic and help those who continue to struggle. I will continue to push leaders in both parties to put politics aside and focus on the people we serve. This package reflects the kind of compromise I've advocated for and we must see more of this the months ahead. Subsequent packages must include additional support for workers, families, small businesses, and those on the front lines. They also must include funding for our local cities and towns that have seen their budgets blown open by increased COVID-19 costs and decreased revenues. This will stave off cuts to critical services, like police, fire, and education; stop layoffs; and prevent tax hikes on working families. I will continue to work with anyone - Republican or Democrat - to fight for additional support for Granite Staters so we can weather this storm. Pappas-led provisions* in this bill include efforts to expand eligibility for PPP loans for small business and small non-profits, increased flexibility for small businesses, expanding critical infrastructure projects and supporting clean water resources, strengthening international medical partnerships to lessen our dependence on China, developing a clean energy economy, and providing more and better care for veterans and military families The COVID-19 package incorporates key priorities that Congressman Pappas has advocated for, including: Providing Direct Assistance to Granite Staters Unable to Work An additional round of direct payments of up to $600 for each adult and child to help Americans make ends meet $300 per week in enhanced unemployment support for those unemployed due to COVID-19 $25 billion in rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes Extension of the eviction moratorium for one month to keep people in their homes Supporting Frontline Workers and Expediting Vaccine Distribution $69 billion for COVID-19 testing tracing, vaccine distribution, and mental health services $4.5 billion for state and local health departments to provide critical care for Granite Staters $3 billion for hospital and care provider reimbursement $4.25 billion for substance abuse and mental health services, including $1.65 billion for the Substance Abuse and Prevention Treatment Block Grant Uplifting Granite State Small Businesses Through the Expansion of PPP $284 billion more in PPP and small business support for Main Street businesses struggling to pay rent and workers A second round of PPP loans for businesses with less than 300 employees and revenue losses of at least 25%. Expanded use of PPP funds to cover the cost of PPE, operational expenditures like software, HR, and accounting, and supplier costs. Expanded PPP eligibility for small nonprofits and local chambers that support local small businesses * Streamlined PPP forgiveness for loans under $150,000 with a one-page certification document $20 billion in additional funding for Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program to assist small businesses with dramatic cash flow problems Language to ensure PPP and EIDL funds are fully deductible and do not count towards the gross income of a business $15 billion in grants for live event venues, including museum and theater operators, who have experienced severe impacts due to the COVID-19 pandemic An extension and expansion of the Employee Retention Tax Credit, raising the cap to $10,000 per employee per quarter and includes Rep. Pappas's legislation to allow employers who receive a PPP loan to also qualify for the ERTC for wages not paid for with forgiven PPP proceeds * $7 billion in funding to support expanded broadband access, especially in our rural communities. Protecting Critical Services Providing $10 billion in emergency funding for the U.S. Postal Service by converting the loan USPS received in the CARES Act to direct funding $ Extension of the non-itemized, above-the-line charitable deduction for 2021 to incentivize giving to nonprofits on the front lines of the pandemic $10 billion for child care to get parents back to work and keep child care open $82 billion in funding for colleges and schools Extension of the deadline to spend CARES Act funds for another year so local governments and states do not lose resources $2 million to strengthen medical partnership with Israel to develop a COVID-19 vaccine and fight this pandemic The Omnibus appropriations package includes New Hampshire priorities that Congressman Pappas has championed, including: Boosting New Hampshire Small Businesses $2 billion for career, technical, and adult education programs, an increase of $70 million above the 2020 enacted level. $30 million in funding for the Northern Border Regional Commission, an increase of $5 million above the 2020 enacted level. $3 million for the Northeastern States Research Cooperative to support the ecological and economic strength of the Northern Forest region, an increase of $1 million above the 2020 enacted level. Authorization of additional H-2B visas for fiscal year 2021 for temporary nonagricultural labor to address the urgent needs of seasonal employers Permanent decrease of the federal excise taxes for beer, wine, and distilled spirits. Providing for Veterans and Military Families $90 billion for medical care for veterans, including: $313 million is for suicide prevention outreach activities $661 million for gender-specific care for women $1.9 billion for homeless assistance programs $504 million for opioid abuse prevention $300 million in rural health initiatives $4 million to improve DNA processing for POW/MIA identification * Supporting New Hampshire's Environment $100 million increase in funding for PFAS clean-up at military bases across the country, including: $15 million to continue the nation-wide CDC study and assessment of the health impacts of PFOS/PFOA contamination in drinking water. $53 million in funding for EPA's efforts to develop drinking water and cleanup standards for PFAS, an increase of $10 million above the 2020 enacted level Expanding The Granite State's Infrastructure Expediting ongoing water infrastructure projects including the Portsmouth Harbor and Piscataqua River Navigation Project, and work in Rye Harbor * Extension of clean energy tax incentives, including: Two-year extension of the Investment Tax Credit for solar power One-year extension of the Production Tax Credit for wind power Extension of offshore wind tax credits through 2025 Expansion of research on renewable energy technologies like solar, wind, geothermal, and water power through the Department of Energy. Inclusion of Rep. Pappas's legislation, H.R. 5905, the Joint Long-Term Storage, to establish a joint program between the Department of Defense and the Department of Energy to integrate current federal efforts to develop long-term energy storage technologies * Ending Surprise Medical Billingwhich protects patients when they are billed after receiving care unknowingly from physicians or hospitals that are out of network. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/senators-shaheen-menendez-rubio-leahy-coons-celebrate-expected-passage-of-robert-levinson-hostage-recovery-and-hostage-taking-accountability-act,"Senators Shaheen, Menendez, Rubio, Leahy, Coons Celebrate Expected Passage of Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senators Shaheen, Menendez, Rubio, Leahy, Coons Celebrate Expected Passage of Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act December 21, 2020 (WASHINGTON, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), SFRC Ranking Member Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), andSenators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Chris Coons (D-DE)issued the following statements on securing passage of the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act (S.712) as part of the end-of-year funding legislation approved by the Senate today: Any time an American citizen is unjustly held against their will, the U.S. government must do everything in its power to bring them home. Too many lives have been taken and too many Americans remain unjustly imprisoned around the globe today, which is why our legislation is so urgently needed, said Senator Shaheen. Our bipartisan effort reaffirms U.S. commitment to secure the freedom of Americans detained abroad and enhances diplomatic authority for the President and administration to force their release. I'm glad Congress is clearing this legislation and delivering it to the President's desk to be signed into law. This bill is a fitting tribute to Robert Levinson, an FBI agent who was detained by the Iranian regime and died in their custody. He will not be forgotten and through this legislation, we will help ensure Americans who are still unjustly held are not forgotten either. Every tool must be at our disposal to bring Americans home. Earlier this year, we learned that Bob Levinson, the longest-held hostage in American history, died while in Iranian custody, far from his loving family, friends and colleagues. In March 2007, after decades of service to the United States, Bob Levinson was cruelly and mysteriously taken from his family, who have spent the past 13 years tirelessly fighting for his safe return home. Their indefatigable dedication to Bob has inspired me and my colleagues over the years to pursue various legislative efforts, leading to the passage of this bill to ensure that the United States has the resourcesto safeguard American lives abroad and reunite hostages with their loved ones, said Senator Menendez. I commend my colleagues for helping enact this bill, and I continue to stand with the Levinson family in the long march towards achieving justice for Bob. This bipartisan bill, named in honor of Floridian Bob Levinson, the longest held American hostage who is believed to have died while detained by the brutal regime in Tehran, strengthens our nation's resources to bring back American hostages, said Senator Rubio. We must ensure that no American family will ever endure what the Levinson family went through. I am proud to have co-led this legislation and I look forward to it becoming law. This bill is a fitting tribute to Bob Livingston, who gave his life for this country, and to his family who did everything humanly possible to try to save his life. Americans wrongfully imprisoned overseas deserve whatever support and assistance our government can give them. This bill, which I am very proud to have taken part in drafting, will help ensure that future victims and their families receive that help, said Senator Leahy. The passage of this bipartisan bill is an important step in seeking justice for the unlawful detention and death of Bob Levinson, an American who was taken hostage by Iran over a decade ago and died in Iranian custody, said Senator Coons. The Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act honors Bob by strengthening our ability to bring Americans detained abroad home safely and hold their captors accountable. The Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act is a bipartisan bill to bolster U.S. government resources to bring back Americans held hostage or unlawfully detained abroad. The legislation fortifies existing programs to address hostage-taking and equips the U.S. government with new tools to perform rescues, punish captors, and provide critical information and support to hostages and their families. The bill is named in honor of former FBI agent Robert Levinson, who is presumed to have died in Iranian custody this year. Lasting more than twelve years, Levinson's unlawful detention by the Iranian regime is recognized as the longest-held hostage in American history. A copy of the legislation can be foundHERE. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-negotiated-covid-19-emergency-relief-legislation-attached-to-final-government-funding-bill,Shaheen-Negotiated COVID-19 Emergency Relief Legislation Attached to Final Government Funding Bill,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen-Negotiated COVID-19 Emergency Relief Legislation Attached to Final Government Funding Bill December 21, 2020 **Senate, House leaders released government funding legislation for FY21 that includes COVID-19 relief legislationShaheenhelpednegotiate over the past few weeks and unveiled last week with a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers** **A senior member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Shaheenonce againhelped negotiate provisions to assist small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis & also steered negotiations on nutrition assistance and support to address the substance use disorder epidemic** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH),a senior member of the Senate Appropriations and Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committees, issued the following statement afterSenate and House leaders unveiled finalgovernment funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2021, whichcontainsShaheen-negotiated emergency COVID-19 relief legislation that would provide urgently needed assistance to American students, families, businesses, workers and health care providersimpacted bythe public health and economic crises. The need and urgency for this relief cannot be overstated. I'm pleased that congressional leadership finally struck a deal based on the bipartisan legislation I wrote with a small group of lawmakers now our attention needs to be fixed on delivering it to the President's desk as soon as possible,said Shaheen. Our bipartisan effort included in the government funding legislation is critical to helping American families, small businesses, health care providers and others on the frontlines of this crisis to get through the next few months, but more assistance will be needed.This is short-term relief. I stand ready and willing to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to restart bipartisan negotiations in the next Congress with the Biden administration to provide a stimulus bill that addresses the long-term needs of our recovery, including assistance for Granite Staters and New Hampshire local governments.Our work goes on. SenatorShaheenis a member of the bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers that has met around the clock for the last month to negotiate COVID-19 relief legislation,which they unveiled last week.Shaheenonce againhelped craft the provisions to assist small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis -- taking ona similar leadership role that she held as a negotiatorfor the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act -- and also steered negotiations on nutrition assistance and support to address the substance use disorder epidemic. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/congress-in-your-corner/catching-up-with-annie/crossing-the-aisle-to-fund-our-government-and-support,Crossing the aisle to fund our government and support Granite State workers,2020-12-20,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend, Giving Thanks and Sharing Holiday Cheer with our Veterans This week I had the pleasure of sharing some holiday cheer with Granite State veterans as part of my seventh annual Holiday Cards for Heroes program. It was my honor to meet the residents of the New Hampshire Veterans Home in Tilton, where I delivered student-made cards to help say thank you to our veterans. These beautiful handmade cards are just one small way to express our deepest gratitude this holiday season. A Bipartisan Bill to Fund the Government, Tackle the Opioid Epidemic, and Support Rural Communities in NH This week, the House of Representatives passed funding bills to avert a government shutdown and advance key priorities in the Granite State. I'm thrilled this legislation includes the following: Over$5 billion in fundingthat I helped advance to combat the opioid epidemic. This funding will make a real difference in the fight against the disease of addiction by bolstering treatment and recovery services and supporting law enforcement and interdiction efforts. $3.7 billionin funding for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help low-income families in New Hampshire stay warm this winter. An increase in funding for the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) from$22 million to $25 million, which I led my colleagues to secure. This increase will help the NBRC continue its work to support local communities across the Granite State. Working with the Trump Administration to Pass a New Trade Agreement Cross border trade is essential to the health of New Hampshire's economy, as so many businesses rely on exporting goods and services to Canada and Mexico. This week, I was proud tocast my voteto pass bipartisan legislation that would implement the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). This agreement includes key improvements secured by House Democrats to strengthen labor enforcement in Mexico, lower prescription drug prices and remove outdated NAFTA policies. This deal will set the standard for what Granite State families and folks nationwide should be able to expect from trade agreements. From supporting Granite State workers to increasing market access for our local dairy farmers, I will continue my work to make sure New Hampshire's economy works for everyone. Hearing from You Thanks to all who joined my telephone town hall this week to ask questions and get an update on my work in Congress! From health care to holding the Trump Administration accountable I appreciated the opportunity to answer questions from Granite Staters about the issues that matter most to them. Upholding my Oath to the Constitution and Holding the Trump Administration Accountable Earlier this week, I returned from a bipartisan trip to Belgium to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge the Germans' last significant offensive during World War II. My late father, MalcolmMcLane, was shot down during the Battle of the Bulge and spent the final six months of World War II in a Nazi prisoner-of-war camp. In this solemn moment, on this historic day for our nation, I had an opportunity to reflect on the legacy of my father and all World War II veterans. We owe them and all of the men and women who have served our nation an incredible debt of gratitude for their service and bravery. With a heavy heart, I upheld my oath to protect and defend the Constitution when I cast my vote to charge President Donald John Trump with articles of impeachment. I did so to protect and defend the future of our great nation our American democracy for generations to come. Introducing Legislation to Protect Granite State Businesses from Online Sales Tax This week, I was proud to join Congressman Chris Pappas to introduce the Stop Taxing Our Potential (STOP) Act, which would overturn the harmful 2018 Supreme Court Wayfair decision that forces New Hampshire small businesses to collect online sales tax from over 10,000 jurisdictions across the country. Granite State businesses are ramping up for the holiday season to sell goods online all across the country. Unfortunately, the imposition of a burdensome online sales tax is hanging over their heads. Requiring small businesses to collect an online sales tax from thousands of different tax jurisdictions will hurt growth in New Hampshire and increase red tape. I will continue to advance efforts that will protect our economic competitiveness in New Hampshire. Working to Lower Granite State Energy Bills and Create Jobs New Hampshire communities are already experiencing the negative impacts of climate change, and it is imperative that Congress advances legislation to expand clean energy projects and protect our planet. This week, I introduced the Community Energy Savings Program Act of 2019 (CESP), legislation that would promote the expansion of clean energy projects in New Hampshire and across the country. I was proud to introduce this bill to lower the financial barrier for families and communities across the Granite Staters who wish to finance energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. By expanding access to low-cost loans, we can drive down costs for families, create green energy jobs and reduce carbon pollution that is harmful to public health. Happy Holidays From my family to yours,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-to-yahoo-finance-on-partisanship-delaying-covid-19-relief-we-dont-have-any-more-time-to-mess-around,Shaheen to Yahoo! Finance on Partisanship Delaying COVID-19 Relief: ‘We don’t have any more time to mess around’,2020-12-19,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen to Yahoo! Finance on Partisanship Delaying COVID-19 Relief: We don't have any more time to mess around' December 19, 2020 **On Monday, Shaheenshared details on bipartisan COVID-19 emergency relief that she wrote with a bicameral group of lawmakers and delivered as a blueprint to congressional leaders** **A senior member of the Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship, Shaheen once againhelped negotiate provisions to assist small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis & also steered negotiations on nutrition assistance and support to address the substance use disorder epidemic** (Washington, DC) Yesterday, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, sat down with Yahoo! Finance to discuss her role as a negotiator on new COVID-19 emergency relief. On Monday, Shaheen and the bipartisan group of lawmakers shared additional details for the Bipartisan COVID-19 Emergency Relief Act of 2020, which would provide as much as $748 billion in relief to American students, families, businesses, workers and health care providers during this crisis. The bicameral group of lawmakers have been part of ongoing bipartisan talks over the past month to deliver urgently needed COVID-19 emergency relief. In her conversation with Yahoo! Finance, Shaheen discussed the bipartisan efforts that led to the legislation she and fellow negotiators shared on Monday with congressional leadership to serve as a blueprint for long overdue relief to help Americans struggling during this crisis. As congressional leadership continues to resolve differences to finalize a COVID-19 relief bill, Shaheen underscored the urgent need to reach a compromise as swiftly as possible, stating, We don't have any more time to mess aroundIt's time to get this deal done. The American people have been waiting for months and it's getting late. Senator Shaheenhelped lead negotiationson the small business relief programs that were established in theCoronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Actthat was signed into law in March, and includes the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). ThePPPhas been a lifeline for businesses and nonprofits in New Hampshire, with over $2.5 billion in assistance disbursed to more than 25,000 businesses across the state. Shaheen has been intricately involved in the bipartisan talks that led to this new bipartisan, bicameral legislation, of which she once again helped lead negotiations on portions that would provide help to small businesses. Shaheen also worked with Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) to write the measures to assist child care providers, and she helped steer negotiations on nutrition assistance and support to address the substance use disorder epidemic, which has been exacerbated by COVID. Read the story by Jessica Smith at Yahoo! Finance here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-urges-trump-administration-to-waive-late-filing-penalties-for-taxpayers,Shaheen Urges Trump Administration to Waive Late Filing Penalties for Taxpayers,2020-12-19,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Urges Trump Administration to Waive Late Filing Penalties for Taxpayers December 19, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and a bipartisan group of Senators sent a letter to U.S. Department of the Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Charles Rettig urging the Trump administration to waive late filing penalties for taxpayers whose filing delay is caused by COVID-19. U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and John Kennedy (R-LA) led the letter. Many taxpayers are facing economic hardships and business closures due to COVID-19,the Senators wrote.Taxpayers expect fair treatment from their government, and the current unwillingness to provide an expedited process for taxpayers and their advisors to request pandemic-specific relief places an undue burden on them. We ask that you move to address these issues immediately so the American people can receive the relief they urgently need. In the letter, the Senators urged the Trump administration to: Create a special COVID-19 First Time Abatement option for taxpayers eligible for normal First Time Abatement where one can attest to filing difficulty directly caused by the pandemic; Provide written guidance directing IRS Customer Service Representatives to grant reasonable cause and COVID-related abatement requests liberally; Develop and advertise specific COVID-related examples that qualify for reasonable cause abatement; and Create a dedicated telephone number, or dedicated prompt, for taxpayers and their advisors to call to request COVID-related penalty relief. The text of the letter can be read here. Senator Shaheen has worked to help alleviate burdens taxpayers have faced amid the COVID-19 crisis. In March, she introduced legislation with a bipartisan group of Senators that would give taxpayers impacted by COVID-19 more time to file their taxes. The Treasury Department heeded the Senators' call and moved Tax Day from April 15 to July 15. Following reports her office received from Granite Staters of significant delays in the processing of their tax returns, Shaheen called on the IRS and Treasury Department to share more detailed information with taxpayers in New Hampshire and across the nation on the status of their tax returns and adhere to a reasonable timeframe to process returns and send refunds for tax year 2019. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-and-kuster-release-report-health-and-economic-impacts-climate-change,Pappas and Kuster Release Report on the Health and Economic Impacts of Climate Change on Granite Staters,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) announced a new report from the House Committee on Oversight and Reformentitled, The Urgent Need for Climate Action: Health Benefits for the State of New Hampshire if the United States Meets the Goals of the Paris Agreement. The report details the impacts of climate change that Granite Staters are already seeing and analyzes the public health and economic benefits New Hampshire would see if the U.S. and the global community effectively meet the emissions targets laid out in the Paris Climate Accord. In particular, the report underscores how rejoining the Paris Agreement and taking further strong action to address the climate crisis would protect the health and well-being of Granite Staters. This recent report highlights how critical it is to the economic and public health of Granite Staters that the United States re-enter the Paris Climate Accord and take strong action to address climate change,said Congressman Pappas.That is why I was so glad to speak with these advocates and discuss how climate action and increasing resilience has so many societal co-benefits, from protecting public health to expanding economic opportunity. Rep. Pappas continued, I look forward to working with the Biden-Harris Administration and my colleagues in Congress to raise awareness of the need to re-engage our allies internationally and leaders at the local, state, and federal levels. We must enact commonsense policies that will strengthen our clean energy economy and improve our infrastructure so that we can mitigate the devastating impacts of climate change on New Hampshire's public health and economy. Here in New Hampshire, we are lucky to have some of the most beautiful land in the world, said Rep. Kuster.However, climate change poses a serious threat to not only our environment, but also to our economy, our national security, and our society. In order to prevent the worst effects of the climate crisis, we must take immediate, strategic action. Rep. Kuster continued,The time to take action on climate change is now, and I am confident that in the coming year, we will be able to advance critical environmental legislation to curb climate change and help us transition to a clean energy economy. I look forward to my continued work with advocates and stakeholders to preserve and protect our environment. ""The co-benefits associated with meeting the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement are significant at both local and global scales,""said Dr. Semra Aytur, an epidemiologist and Associate Professor in the Department of Health Management and Policy at the University of New Hampshire.Locally, increasing temperatures and severe storm events can exacerbate vulnerabilities for those living with existing physical and/or mental health challenges such as cancer, asthma, depression, and substance use disorders. Re-joining the Paris Climate Agreement will align us with international efforts to confront systemic inequities that have been starkly revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing climate change may also help to prevent future pandemics, as a large proportion of emerging global disease threats are associated with climate-related zoonotic diseases."" The climate crisis will make health conditions worse for the most vulnerable in our communities,said Catherine Corkey, the New Hampshire State Director for the Sierra Club.I am glad Congressman Pappas and Congresswoman Kuster understand that the climate crisis will have health consequences that will vary by race, income, age, and geography. Acknowledging the diversity of impacts will help bring more solutions for everyone in New Hampshire and beyond. The climate crisis is a major threat to the health of our communities, including vulnerable communities already experiencing health disparities,said Tom Irwin, V.P. and Director of Conservation Law Foundation in New Hampshire.From addressing the health impacts of dirty fossil fuels, to avoiding dangerous heat conditions, action on climate change is essential to securing a healthier future for the people of New Hampshire, and for our future economy. The United States will re-establish its important global climate leadership role on day one of the Biden-Harris Administration by re-joining the Paris Climate Agreement,said New Hampshire State Director of the League of Conservation Voters Rob Werner. The absence of the United States over the past four years on the international stage combined with the rollback of nearly 100 environmental protections here at home have placed the public health of Granite Staters at increased risk. New Hampshire is part of the global community and increased global efforts to meet the existential threat of climate change will make a positive difference in the lives of our citizens. Both members are co-sponsors of H.R. 9, the Climate Action Now Act, which would require the Trump Administration to remain in the Paris Climate Accord and to develop a public plan for how the United States will meet its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Pappas secured increased funding for more resilient infrastructure, the creation of a federal grant program that will build bike and pedestrian trails, and measures to clean up our water through the inclusion of $1 billion in funding to implement Pappas's Clean Water Standards for PFAS Act in theHouse's landmark transportation package. A longtime advocate for preserving our environment, Kuster unveiled herClean Energy Agendain January to address climate change and transition to a clean energy economy. Also earlier this year, legislation Kuster helped introduce, the PFAS Action Act of 2019,passed the Houseand includes Kuster's Protecting Communities from New PFAS Act,which she introduced in May. Kuster's bill would prevent new PFAS chemicals from being approved through the EPA's premanufacture notice system. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-honor-christa-mcauliffe-during-commemorative-coin-unveiling,"Shaheen, Hassan Honor Christa McAuliffe During Commemorative Coin Unveiling",2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan Honor Christa McAuliffe During Commemorative Coin Unveiling December 18, 2020 **Shaheen led bipartisan legislation with Senators Mike Enzi & Maggie Hassan that was signed into law last year to create this commemorative coin in honor of Christa McAuliffe in support of STEM education.** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) issued the following statements after theunveiling of the Christa McAuliffe Commemorative Coin today. Shaheen led the bipartisan legislation with Senators Mike Enzi (R-WY) and Hassan creating the commemorative coin to honor Christa McAuliffe, the Concord teacher who died aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986. This coin promotes American commitment to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and will support it with proceeds from the coin. Shaheen and Hassan both submitted video messages for the ceremony earlier today, which can be viewed here and here. Christa McAuliffe will always have a special place in our hearts in New Hampshire. More than three decades since the NASA Space Shuttle Challenger disaster, her mission lives on in the generations of students she inspired to pursue STEM education and space exploration, said Shaheen. This commemorative coin was a long time in the making and is a fitting tribute to her legacy. I'd like to thank Dean Kamen for his efforts to continue Christa's work on behalf of students in New Hampshire and across the country, and I appreciate Senator Enzi and Senator Hassan's partnership on our bipartisan legislation that helped make this vision a reality. Christa McAuliffe will always be an inspiration to Granite Staters and Americans from all walks of life, saidSenator Hassan.Christa was driven by a passion for teaching and scientific discovery, and this commemorative coin will help continue her legacy. I also greatly appreciate Dean Kamen's work on this effort and all that he does to advance Christa's mission of engaging more young people in the STEM fields.And I am grateful to have been part of a bipartisan team with Senator Shaheen and Senator Enzi in helping make this commemorative coin a reality.I look forward to similar bipartisan efforts in the future to bolster STEM education. Shaheen's bipartisan legislation with Senators Enzi and Hassan to create this commemorative coin, theChrista McAuliffe Commemorative Coin Act,was signed into law last year. The bill passed the Senate and the House of Representatives with strong bipartisan support. As theVice Chair of the Senate Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Shaheen has been a strong advocate for STEM education and scientific research funding priorities. During her time in the Senate, Shaheen has also worked to secure scientific research funding for New Hampshireuniversitiesandbusinesses. In June,Senator Shaheen hosted a virtual roundtable with NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstineto highlight contracting opportunities for Granite State small businesses to support NASA's ongoing space exploration technology research efforts and theArtemis program, which aims to land the next humans on the Moon. Last year,Bridenstine joined Shaheen in visits to the University of New Hampshire's Space Science Center and Mikrolar, a contractor for NASA. The events came on the heels of UNH's selection by NASA for a highly-competitive $107.9 million contract award through the Earth Venture program. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-highlights-urgent-need-for-additional-food-assistance-for-struggling-granite-staters-during-virtual-meeting-with-nh-nutrition-and-food-security-organizations,Shaheen Highlights Urgent Need for Additional Food Assistance for Struggling Granite Staters During Virtual Meeting with NH Nutrition & Food Security Organizations,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Highlights Urgent Need for Additional Food Assistance for Struggling Granite Staters During Virtual Meeting with NH Nutrition & Food Security Organizations December 18, 2020 Shaheen hears more about the challenges Granite State food security and nutrition organizations are facing amid the COVID-19 pandemic. To view the virtual meeting, click here. (Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) highlighted the urgent need to provide additional food assistance in COVID-19 relief to help struggling Granite State families during a virtual meeting with New Hampshire nutrition and food security organizations. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many families throughout New Hampshire are struggling to make ends meet and put food on the table. 1 in 7 men, women and children in the state are now food insecure, while up to 23% of children are living in a food insecure environment as a result of this crisis. This meeting comes after Shaheen shared additional details earlier this week for the COVID-19 emergency relief bill she announced with a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers. The Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act of 2020 contains agricultural and nutrition assistance for farmers, families and frontline organizations. During the meeting, Shaheen heard more from nutrition and food security organizations about their experiences providing nutrition assistance to vulnerable Granite Staters and the challenges they are facing and updated them on her efforts in the Senate to work to secure needed relief. To view the virtual meeting, click here. As a result of this pandemic, many Granite State families are struggling to put food on the table. 1 in 7 people in our state are now food insecure, as are nearly a quarter of Granite State children. This is an alarming crisis that cannot be overstated lives are at stake, and Congress needs to act now, said Senator Shaheen. COVID-19 relief legislation I introduced with a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers contains critical assistance that will help ensure families can put food on the table, and provide support for our food security and nutrition organizations, which have worked tirelessly during this emergency to help our most vulnerable populations. I appreciate the important feedback I received from these frontline groups during our call this morning and will share their stories in ongoing negotiations to help drive this legislation forward and get families the support they need. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-statement-on-fdas-emergency-use-authorization-of-moderna-covid-19-vaccine,Shaheen Statement on FDA’s Emergency Use Authorization of Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Statement on FDA's Emergency Use Authorization of Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine December 18, 2020 **Lonza, a Portsmouth-based pharmaceutical company, is manufacturing Moderna's mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine candidate** **Earlier this month, Shaheen received a virtual briefing on Lonza's vaccine manufacturing efforts** (Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) released the following statement after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted an emergency use authorization for Moderna's mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine. The authorization comes following the release of studies highlighting its efficacy in protecting against the COVID-19 virus and after the FDA's independent vaccine advisory committee made its favorable recommendation for the vaccine on Thursday. The vaccine is being manufactured in partnership with Lonza Pharma & Biotech, a Portsmouth-based pharmaceutical company, which has ramped up manufacturing capacity in anticipation of the hundreds of millions of doses that will be needed by the American people. Earlier this month, Shaheen received a virtual briefing on the firm's vaccine manufacturing efforts. Today's FDA authorization of the Moderna vaccine is a significant step forward in our fight against this pandemic and a testament to our incredible doctors, scientists and researchers, whose remarkable work in developing this safe and effective vaccine in such a short amount of time is nothing less than extraordinary, said Shaheen. I'm especially proud of New Hampshire's role in this effort. Lonza, a Portsmouth-based company, partnered with Moderna and has been working tirelessly to ensure that it's prepared to ramp up production so it can carry out its mission to manufacture hundreds of millions of doses. New Hampshire health care workers and residents of long-term care facilities, which have been particularly hard hit by this pandemic, will thankfully soon receive the first doses of this vaccine. The authorization of the Moderna vaccine - the second COVID-19 vaccine announced in just weeks after months of round-the-clock work by our medical and science communities - brings hope to all Americans in our fight against this virus. I'm committed to working with Lonza, Moderna and state officials to ensure they have the resources they need to meet the demand for vaccine production and create a robust, well-prepared distribution chain that will ensure every Granite Stater can be vaccinated. Shaheen has led efforts in the Senate to ensure the United States is prepared to quickly produce and deliver potential COVID-19 vaccines to the American people. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act included a Shaheen- supported provision containing $3.5 billion to support vaccine development and manufacturing. Shaheen has also called for robust funding to ensure the swift distribution of COVID-19 vaccines as a part of any upcoming legislation to address the pandemic following up on their call from earlier this year for Congress to provide at least $5.6 billion in federal funding to develop and support COVID-19 vaccine infrastructure. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-veteran-s-package-containing-key-provisions-authored-rep-pappas,House Passes Veteran’s Package Containing Key Provisions Authored by Rep. Pappas,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"The provisions included work to improve the quality of care at the VA and address inefficiencies that have hindered veterans' care CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO Washington, D.C.- Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) took to the House floor to encourage his colleagues to support the Dependable Employment and Living Improvements for Veterans' Economic Recovery (DELIVER) Act, which contains three bills authored by Pappas that work to improve the quality of care in the Veterans Administration (VA) and address VA inefficiencies. As the Chair of the Oversight and Investigations for Subcommittee for the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, I have spent the last two years listening to veterans, working with the VA, and thinking critically about how we can better deliver on the promises we made to our veterans,said Congressman Pappas. It is unacceptable that the health network responsible for providing care to more than 9 million of our nation's veterans has remained on the high risk list' of federal agencies prone to waste and mismanagement, or that their own processing delays can generate debt and financial hardships for our veterans,Pappas continued.Much work remains to be done, that's why I am proud that the House is passing this bipartisan legislation to support our veterans. It contains three bills I have authored that work to reduce these inefficiencies and improve the quality of care and benefits our veterans receive, and I hope the package is signed into law by the President. Congressman Pappas's first two pieces of legislation that were included aim to increase the quality of care veterans receive from the VA. This includes his bipartisan, Reducing High Risk to Veterans Services Act, which will improve management and better the quality of care within the Veterans Health Administration in order to remove it from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) High Risk List of federal government programs that are most susceptible to fraud, waste, or mismanagement. It will require greater accountability and transparency by requiring the VA to establish a plan to get off the high-risk list and provide semi-annual updates to Congress on their progress. The second piece of bipartisan health care legislation seeks to ensure female veterans have access to prosthetic items that were made specifically for women at VA facilities. His third bill, the SHIELD Act, sets limits on when VA may initiate collection proceedings against veterans, and also gives veterans the ability to update their dependents online, rather than waiting for VA to process documents by mail, which can often lead to improper debt generation. The DELIVER Act will also expand services for homeless veterans, improve and expand eligibility for the HUD-VA Supportive Housing program, and support retraining programs for unemployed veterans. You can read the Congressman's remarks as prepared for delivery on this legislation below: M_. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues for their full support on H.R. 7105, which includes three pieces of legislation I introduced to ensure the VA is able to fulfill their mission of supporting all of those who have borne the battle. These bills improve the quality of care at the VA, while simultaneously addressing the department's inefficiencies that have hindered our veterans' care for far too long. I urge my colleagues to support two pieces of legislation that will improve care and reduce waste, fraud, and abuse in order to remove it from the Government Accountability Office's High Risk List, and ensure female veterans have access to properly-fitted prosthetic items, just as their male counterparts do. My final bill, the SHIELD Act, sets limits on when VA may initiate collection proceedings against veterans, and also gives veterans the ability to update their dependents online, rather than waiting for VA to process documents by mail, which can often lead to improper debt generation. It is simply unacceptable that VA's inefficiencies are hurting the men and women they are supposed to serve, or preventing them from accessing the care they have earned. I urge my colleagues to stand with our veterans and support the overlying bill, which includes these critical measures, and I yield back the remainder of my time.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/new-nh-delegation-announces-nearly-77-million-in-cares-act-funding-for-nh-health-care-providers,NEW: NH Delegation Announces Nearly $77 Million in CARES Act Funding for NH Health Care Providers,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"NEW: NH Delegation Announces Nearly $77 Million in CARES Act Funding for NH Health Care Providers December 16, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) announced today that New Hampshire health care providers will receive $76,880,682 in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Provider Relief Fund. The funding is part of $175 billion in health care provider grant appropriations allocated under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act and will allow Granite State health care providers to manage the health and financial challenges they face on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly as COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths continue to dramatically increase in New Hampshire. The New Hampshire delegation voted for the CARES Act and stood firm during negotiations to make sure additional funding was provided to health care providers and nursing home facilities.New Hampshire health care providers have now received more than $450 million from the Provider Relief Fund, as well as an additional $689 million in loans through the Medicare Accelerated and Advance Payments Program. New Hampshire's health care providers are under tremendous strain from the immense health and financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations surge across the state, providers could be pushed past the breaking point if they do not receive the resources they need to keep their doors open and continue to serve their communities during this critical time, said Senator Shaheen. This federal funding could not come soon enough and will help providers grapple with the increased expenses and revenue shortfalls they are facing. Though I'm pleased these funds have been awarded, more is needed to help providers on the frontlines get through the difficult winter months ahead. Congress must act now to provide the urgent resources our health care providers need to save lives by passing our bipartisan, bicameral COVID-19 emergency relief legislation. New Hampshire health care providers are facing unprecedented challenges as COVID-19 cases continue to rise in our state, with doctors and nurses working around the clock to save lives while putting their own health at risk. Our health care providers need additional support, and I am glad that they will receive this federal funding as part of the CARES Act, said Senator Hassan. As a member of the bipartisan Senate group negotiating COVID-19 relief, I am continuing to push to get a bill across the finish line before Christmas, including additional aid for health care providers. It's crucial that Granite State health care providers are equipped with the resources and support they need to safely maintain operations and continue treating patients throughout the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic,said Representative Kuster. Even as we see the distribution of our first COVID-19 vaccines here in New Hampshire and across the country, our health care providers need assistance to continue serving our communities and ensure sufficientpersonal protective equipment and other resources are available as we head into the winter months. This funding is critical for our health care providers and I am committed to continuing working to get relief to where it is needed most. Health care providers have been on the front lines responding to this pandemic and have been stretched thin in treating COVID-19 cases and bearing the cost of increased hospitalization, said Representative Pappas. This funding comes at a crucial time as providers continue to manage health and financial challenges caused by COVID-19 while ensuring they can continue to provide critical care to Granite Staters. I will continue working with our Congressional delegation to support the needs New Hampshire health care providers. Earlier this week, Shaheen and Hassan shared additional details for the two bipartisan, bicameral COVID-19 emergency relief bills. The Bipartisan COVID-19 Emergency Relief Act of 2020 would provide additional, urgently needed relief to American health care providers during this crisis. Shaheen and Hassan are part of a bicameral, bipartisan group of lawmakers that have been part of ongoing bipartisan talks over the past few weeks to deliver urgently needed COVID-19 emergency relief. The congressional delegationfought to secure funding for health care providers, holding firm during negotiations of the CARES Act. In July, Shaheen, Hassan, Kuster and Pappasannounced more than $6.1 million in COVID-19 relieffor New Hampshire's health care providers.In May, the delegation announced $1.4 million to boost New Hampshire hospitals' readiness and response capabilities to COVID-19.Earlierthat month, they announced $19.78 million in support through the CARES Act to help New Hampshire nursing facilities, followed by $11 million in August. In early April, the delegation announced that New Hampshire providersreceived $164.5 millionfrom an initial installment of health care provider grants. They also announced$115.4 million in COVID-19 relief fundsfor rural hospitals and health care providers, as well as anadditional $16 millionfor Granite State providers. The delegationhas alsocalled on the Trump administrationto expeditiously award more grant dollars from the Provider Relief Fund established under the CARES Act and to update the methodology for distributing future awards from the CARES Act's $175 billion Provider Relief Fund to prioritize nursing homes and long-term care facilities in states like New Hampshire that have lower COVID-19 infection rates, but face serious issues with the spread of COVID-19 and mortality rates among residents of nursing facilities. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-meets-with-president-elect-bidens-secretary-of-defense-nominee,Shaheen Meets with President-elect Biden’s Secretary of Defense Nominee,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Meets with President-elect Biden's Secretary of Defense Nominee December 16, 2020 Senator Shaheen meets virtually with Secretary of Defense nominee Lloyd Austin in her Washington, DC office earlier today. (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement after meeting with Secretary of Defense nominee General Lloyd Austin: I appreciated the opportunity to meet with General Austin this afternoon, where we discussed a number of critical issues impacting our national security that I believe must be top priorities for our next Secretary of Defense and under the Biden administration, said Shaheen. Protecting our national defense against foreign intrusion from adversaries like China and Russia, bolstering women's roles in peace and conflict negotiations and investing in New Hampshire's role in support of our national defense were among these key issues. Shaheen continued, I appreciated hearing about General Austin's extensive military career, including his leadership as CENTCOM Commander where he oversaw U.S. military operations throughout the Middle East and Afghanistan, which is especially important considering the uncertainty of Afghanistan's future amid fraught negotiations. This is of particular significance as we evaluate the role of U.S. forces not only in Afghanistan, but also Syria and Iraq where the United States has made hard fought gains to rid the region of ISIS, which has made a resurgence following the Trump administration's unconditioned draw down. In addition to these pressing concerns, I also made clear to General Austin that the next Secretary of Defense must work to integrate and elevate women at the Pentagon and throughout our national security structures. I look forward to his testimony and consideration before the Senate Armed Services Committee early in the new year. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-senators-request-information-from-fbi-cisa-on-reports-of-russian-cyberattack-against-the-us-government,"Shaheen, Senators Request Information from FBI, CISA on Reports of Russian Cyberattack against the U.S. Government",2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Senators Request Information from FBI, CISA on Reports of Russian Cyberattack against the U.S. Government December 16, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Roger Wicker (R-MS), John Thune (R-SD), Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) leaders of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies and the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation requested a government-wide report from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) on the extent of a supply chain cyberattack on the U.S. Government carried out by alleged Russian threat actors. On Dec. 13, 2020, Reutersreportedan alarming cyberattack campaign organized by Russian actors had breached multiple federal agencies, including the Treasury Department and the Commerce Department. The Senators requested FBI Director Christopher Wray and CISA Acting Director Brandon Wales to supply them with available information on the scope of the attack, details on exposed vulnerability in the U.S. Federal Government and the agencies' responses to the attack. The activities of the Department of Commerce, and one of its components that was impacted, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, play a crucial role in the daily lives of all Americans, and compromising its efforts is of grave concern,the Senators wrote. However, the possible implications reach far beyond the specific federal agency jurisdiction of the Committees, including the private sector, and as such, we respectfully request complete and appropriately detailed answers to the following questions. The full letter can be foundhere. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/brownley-pappas-urge-va-protect-veterans-debt-collections,"Brownley, Pappas Urge VA to Protect Veterans from Debt Collections",2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA), Chair of the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health, and Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH), Chair of the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigation, along with 31 of their colleagues, urged the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to take immediate action to continue deferring the collection of veterans' debt. Like many Americans, our nation's veterans continue to struggle with job losses, housing instability, and paying their monthly bills as we continue battling the ongoing pandemic, said Congresswoman Julia Brownley. VA has the legal authority to continue deferring veterans' debts amid this global health emergency, so it is unclear why they are not doing so. This is the least we can do to provide our veterans with some relief in managing the financial uncertainties the pandemic has created. For many veterans and their families, this deferment means being able to pay the rent, keep the lights on, and keep food on the table. Veterans across the country are suffering from the dire economic consequences of this pandemic, and it is essential that the VA take steps to provide some much needed relief, said Congressman Pappas. Far too many veterans are facing unexpected debt collection due to overpayments or other VA errors. Earlier this year, the VA listened to the concerns my colleagues and I expressed and extended the suspension of debt collection because of COVID-19. I hope VA will heed these calls again and extend the suspension of debt collection to protect our veterans from financial harm. With the pandemic and economic crisis far from over, this is a common sense step that is warranted. To view the letter, click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/12/17/2020/icymi-shaheen-hassan-share-details-of-two-bipartisan-covid-19-emergency-relief-bills,"ICYMI: Shaheen, Hassan Share Details of Two Bipartisan COVID-19 Emergency Relief Bills",2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"ICYMI: Shaheen, Hassan Share Details of Two Bipartisan COVID-19 Emergency Relief Bills December 15, 2020 **A senior member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Shaheenonce againhelped negotiate provisions to assist small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis & also steered negotiations on nutrition assistance and support to address the substance use disorder epidemic** (Washington, DC) Yesterday afternoon, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) a senior member of the Senate Appropriations and Small Business & Entrepreneurship Committees and U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) shared additional details for the two bipartisan, bicameral COVID-19 emergency relief bills. The Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act of 2020, shared by Senators Shaheen, Hassan, Manchin (D-WV), Collins (R-ME), Warner (D-VA), Cassidy (D-LA), Murkowski (D-AK), King (I-ME), Romney (R-UT), Portman (R-OH) and Durbin (D-IL), and Representatives Reed (NY-23) and Gottheimer (NJ-05), would provide as much as $748 billion in relief to American students, families, businesses, workers and health care providers during this crisis. The Bipartisan State and Local Support and Small Business Protection Act of 2020, shared by Senators Manchin, Collins, Cassidy, Murkowski, Romney and Portman would provide $160 billion in funding for state and local governments and liability protections. The bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers have been part of ongoing bipartisan talks over the past few weeks to deliver urgently needed COVID-19 emergency relief. 300,000 Americans have been taken by COVID-19. As hospital beds fill up, small businesses close their doors and Americans struggle to put food on the table, the urgency to get financial relief to our communities cannot be overstated. The bipartisan legislation we announced yesterday written in good-faith and across party lines are the only relief bills that can clear Congress. Senate and House leaders must act swiftly, said Senator Shaheen. The impact of the COVID-19 crisis has been overwhelming and no person or industry has been spared. This legislation responds to those who have been hardest-hit, including our small businesses and child care providers, and it addresses pre-existing problems in our society that have been worsened by the pandemic, such as food insecurity and the substance use disorder epidemic. This legislation will help Americans get through the darkest months of this crisis, but our work is not over. We will need to build on this bipartisan effort in the weeks and months ahead to ensure New Hampshire families and all Americans have the assistance they need to recover. ""Just yesterday I spoke with New Hampshire long-term care and nursing home leaders, and it's clear that additional COVID-19 relief has never been more urgent forhospitals, nursing homes, families, students, and small businesses,"" said Senator Hassan. We have come together, compromised, and found bipartisan agreement on a strong emergency relief package that will help protect lives and livelihoods and there is significant bipartisan, bicameral support for it. I urge Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to work in good faith with our bipartisan group to get this done. The Senators announced the legislation in a press conference yesterday afternoon. Shaheen's remarks can be viewed here and Hassan's can be viewed here. Senator Shaheenhelped lead negotiationson the small business relief programs that were established in theCoronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Actthat was signed into law in March, and includes the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). ThePPPhas been a lifeline for businesses and nonprofits in New Hampshire, with over $2.5 billion in assistance disbursed to more than 25,000 businesses across the state. Shaheen has been intricately involved in the bipartisan talks that led to this new bipartisan, bicameral legislation, of which she once again helped lead negotiations on portions that would provide help to small businesses. Shaheen also worked with Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) to write the measures to assist child care providers, and she helped steer negotiations on nutrition assistance and support to address the substance use disorder epidemic, which has been exacerbated by COVID. Senator Hassan helped lead negotiations on unemployment insurance, resulting in a compromise measure that will extend pandemic unemployment benefits by 16 weeks and provide $300 per week in federal supplemental unemployment insurance benefits for 16 weeks. Senator Hassan also led on negotiating the proposal to provide an additional $82 billion for education K-12 schools and higher education institutions, and $10 billion to support U.S. Postal Serviceoperations. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/nh-delegation-announce-250k-for-youth-substance-use-prevention-efforts-in-laconia-and-winchester,NH Delegation Announce $250K for Youth Substance Use Prevention Efforts in Laconia & Winchester,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"NH Delegation Announce $250K for Youth Substance Use Prevention Efforts in Laconia & Winchester December 15, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) announced $250,000 in Drug Free Communities (DFC) grants from the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) to two local drug prevention coalitions in New Hampshire. The grants will provide the Partnership for Public Health in Laconia and Salt & Light in Winchester funding to prevent youth substance misuse, including prescription drugs and opioids. The DFC Program is administered by ONDCP with program support from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). DFC coalitions have led innovative opioid prevention initiatives and have demonstrated significant declines in prevalence of prescription drug misuse amongst participants. Turning the tide on the substance use disorder epidemic requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, including robust support for youth prevention efforts, said Senator Shaheen. That's why this federal funding is so important it's an investment in frontline organizations that have done tremendous work to stop another generation from succumbing to this deadly epidemic and whose efforts are needed now more than ever as the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbates substance misuse in communities across our state. I'll continue to fight for more funding opportunities to bolster New Hampshire's response to the substance use disorder crisis. These federal dollars will help support organizations in Laconia and Winchester that are working to prevent the next generation from developing an addiction to opioids and other prescription drugs, Senator Hassan said. Youth drug prevention groups play an important role in combating the substance use disorder crisis that has devastated communities across New Hampshire, particularly now as the COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated this ongoing public health challenge. I will keep working with the delegation to secure additional federal resources for prevention, treatment, and recovery. Youth substance misuse prevention programs are vital to combating the addiction crisis in New Hampshire and across the country, said Representative Kuster. With the COVID-19 pandemic making it harder for those who are struggling to get the care they need, investing in these programs is more important than ever. I'm pleased to join my colleagues to help announce this commonsense and much-needed funding, and I will continue my efforts to expand access to substance misuse treatment in the Granite State. To adequately address the addiction epidemic in New Hampshire, we must engage in a comprehensive, community based approach which includes education,said Representative Pappas.This much-needed funding will allow communities in New Hampshire to expand their drug prevention programs to better educate and empower our younger generation. I remain committed to working with the delegation to continue securing additional federal support as we continue to confront our nation's crisis of addiction. Senator Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Department of Justice which oversees numerous programs to combat substance use disorder, has consistently advocated for the DFC program. With Senator Hassan, Shaheen has led efforts in the Senate to respond to the opioid crisis. Shaheen has hosted DFC roundtable discussions with local students, school administrators, community leaders and youth advocates inWoodsvilleas well as Milford,where she joined the New Hampshire congressional delegation and ONDCP Director Jim Carroll. In 2018, Senators Shaheen and Hassanhelped negotiatea bipartisan agreement that resulted in a large national increase in opioid treatment funding through the State Opioid Response (SOR) grant program over two years including$28 million this year. Shaheen and Hassan also helped negotiate a 15 percent set-asideof federal funding for hardest hit states, which has helped states hardest hit, like New Hampshire. These combined efforts led to a1000% increasein federal treatment and prevention funding for New Hampshire.Last year, Senator Shaheen spearheaded new legislationtheTurn the Tide Actto increase the availability of substance use disorder treatment, which Senator Hassan cosponsored. A key component of her legislation to allow treatment providers to use SOR grants to treat help patients suffering from methamphetamine and cocaine dependency, in addition to opioid use disorder,was included in funding legislationsigned into law in 2019.Last week, Shaheen introduced theComprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) 2.0to increase the funding authorization levels for theCARAprograms enacted in 2016 and put in place additional policy reforms to help combat the opioid epidemic that has worsened during the coronavirus pandemic.In the Commerce, Justice Science and Related Agencies (CJS) government funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2021, Shaheen who is the Vice Chair of the subcommittee successfully added measures to the Senate bill that increased federal support for key programs that respond to the substance use disorder crisis, including $50 million for the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to construct a new drug laboratory in New England, to improve lab testing in the region. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact New Hampshire, the congressional delegation hasrepeatedly called for additional fundingfor substance use disorder services in a COVID-19 relief package. In October, the New Hampshire Congressional delegation announced $1.75 millionto fund a Family Treatment Court (FTC) pilot project the state's first FTC in Sullivan County to help enhance access to services for children and families experiencing abuse and neglect, and those impacted by substance use disorder (SUD) and/or mental illness. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-and-hassan-press-trump-administration-on-decision-not-to-pre-order-more-doses-of-pfizer-covid-19-vaccine-call-for-transparent-plan-going-forward,"Shaheen & Hassan Press Trump Administration on Decision Not to Pre-Order More Doses of Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine, Call for Transparent Plan Going Forward",2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen & Hassan Press Trump Administration on Decision Not to Pre-Order More Doses of Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine, Call for Transparent Plan Going Forward December 15, 2020 **Reporting revealed the Trump Administration turned down an option this summer to pre-order additional doses of Pfizer's vaccine** **Senators: We are concerned the failure to secure an adequate supply of vaccines will needlessly prolong the COVID-19 pandemic in this country the Administration must be more transparent about its preparations, as well as how much funding is available, and is needed, to purchase, distribute, and administer sufficient vaccine to end this pandemic. (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) sent a letter with a group of Senators to Dr. Moncef Slaoui, Chief Advisor of Operation Warp Speed, and General Gustave Perna, Chief Operating Officer of Operation Warp Speed, asking about recent reports stating that earlier this year, the Trump Administration declined to purchase additional doses of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine when given the opportunity. The Senators underscore that the decision could hinder efforts to launch a nationwide vaccination campaign as the U.S. will reportedly now be unable to purchase additional doses of the vaccine from Pfizer until pre-orders from other countries are filled. In their letter, the Senators expressed concern about the Trump Administration's lack of planning and transparency and pressed for more information about its preparations to purchase vaccines. The letter was led by U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Ron Wyden (D-OR). We write to you about reports the United States Government declined to exercise its option to purchase additional doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine earlier this year. We are concerned the failure to secure an adequate supply of vaccines will needlessly prolong the COVID-19 pandemic in this country, causing further loss of life and economic devastation. We fear this is yet another instance in which the Trump Administration's failure to develop a comprehensive national vaccines plan in a timely manner could jeopardize efforts to get people vaccinated and ultimately end this pandemic, wrote the Senators. The letter continued, To earn public confidence, demonstrate accountability, and ensure the incoming Biden Administration has the information it needs to hit the ground running in getting our COVID-19 response on track, the Administration must be more transparent about its preparations, as well as how much funding is available, and is needed, to purchase, distribute, and administer sufficient vaccine to end this pandemic. The full text of the letter is available HERE. Shaheen and Hassan have led efforts in the Senate to ensure the United States is prepared to quickly produce and deliver potential COVID-19 vaccines to the American people. TheCoronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Actincluded a Shaheen and Hassan-supported provision containing $3.5 billion to support vaccine development and manufacturing. Shaheen and Hassan have also called forrobust funding to ensure the swift distribution of COVID-19 vaccinesas a part of any upcoming legislation to address the pandemic following up on their call from earlier this year for Congress toprovide at least $5.6 billionin federal funding to develop and support COVID-19 vaccine infrastructure.Earlier this month, Shaheen participated in a virtual briefing with Lonza, a Portsmouth-based pharmaceutical company, on the firm's efforts to manufacture Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine candidate. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-votes-authorize-state-opioid-response-funding-establish-senior-fraud-and,"Pappas Votes to Authorize State Opioid Response Funding, Establish Senior Fraud and Scam Protections",2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today,Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01)voted to pass two key pieces of legislation to help New Hampshire combat the opioid and addiction epidemic, and to protect Granite State seniors from fraud and scams. H.R. 2466, theState Opioid Response Grant Authorization Act Of 2020, which Pappas co-sponsored, reauthorizes through FY2024 the State Opioid Response Grants program which is administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The program works to address the opioid crisis by increasing access to medication-assisted treatment and supports evidence-based prevention, treatment and recovery support services to address stimulant misuse and use disorders, including for cocaine and methamphetamine. New Hampshire is still being hit incredibly hard by the opioid and addiction crisis, which has only been made more acute by the COVID-19 pandemic,said Congressman Pappas.That is why I am pleased that today the House voted to unanimously pass a critical reauthorize the State Opioid Response Grants program to provide badly needed funds to New Hampshire to support prevention, treatment, and recovery services. H.R. 2610, theFraud And Scam Reduction Act, establishes a Senior Scams Prevention Advisory Council, which will create model educational materials to educate employees of retailers, financial-services companies, and wire-transfer companies on how to identify and prevent scams that affect seniors. In October, the New Hampshire Attorney General's Office reported that scams targeting Social Security numbershave been on the risein the state, and a2019 U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reportshowed that older Americans exploited by fraud suffered an average loss of $34,200. Today the House passed important legislation to collect and disseminate model educational materials useful in identifying and preventing scams that impact seniors,said Pappas.The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many seniors to become more isolated and rely more heavily on email and phone to communicate, placing them at an increased risk of fraud or scams. This legislation will help prevent our seniors from being defrauded by making more information readily available and sharing necessary resources with stakeholders and businesses.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-votes-restore-fema-covid-19-funding-manchester-and-nh-school-districts,Pappas Votes to Restore FEMA COVID-19 Funding for Manchester and NH School Districts,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"In September, Pappasco-sponsored legislation to restore emergency fundingunder Stafford Act declarations for Manchester and other school districts after FEMA suddenly halted reimbursements for PPE and various other COVID-related expense WASHINGTON, DC -Today,Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01)voted to pass bipartisan legislation that would require FEMA to once again reimburse Manchester and other New Hampshire school districts for PPE and various other COVID-related expenses after the agency suddenly halted reimbursements in September. Pappas has led the fight in Congress to restore this FEMA funding for school districts in New Hampshire and has been pushing since the start of the pandemic to secure additional federal resources for state, county, and local governments as they deal with decreased revenue and increased expenses. With school districts making hard choices about students and teacher safety, we have no more important obligation than to ensure they have the supplies and resources they need to prevent the spread of COVID-19,said Congressman Chris Pappas.It was alarming and deeply troubling that FEMA changed course so suddenly this fall to end its reimbursements to local governments for PPE and other essential COVID-19 expenses - essentially leaving our cities and towns to fend for themselves. The legislation we passed in the House today would correct that wrong and also help ease the overall financial burden on state and local government as they deal with unprecedented revenue shortfalls and increased COVID-19 expenses. I remain committed to fighting for additional federal resources for state, county, and local governments as they deal with the health and economic impacts of the pandemic. Throughout COVID-19, the Manchester School District made significant investments in ordering PPE, cleaning supplies, and more. When the decision was made to halt reimbursements for PPE, our school district was left paying $2.2 million in expenses, costs they were told would be covered by FEMA,said Mayor Joyce Craig. I want to thank Congressman Pappas for leading the effort in Congress to restore FEMA funding for school districts which will ensure our schools have the PPE and cleaning supplies to keep our students, educators, and staff safe. H.R. 8266, theFEMA Assistance Relief Act of 2020increases the federal cost-share for FEMA disaster assistance provided for COVID-19 pandemic assistance to 100% and for natural disasters declared in the calendar year 2020 to 90%. The legislation expands and clarifies the uses of federal disaster assistance provided in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, authorizing states, local governments, and tribes to use emergency funds to pay for the following: Increased operating costs as a result of the pandemic, including the cost of operating virtual services and virus testing sites Training activities; personal protective equipment for first responders and essential employees; Medical equipment and other public health costs; Increased costs of operating homeless shelters and providing food to affected individuals Backfilling first responder positions Background: Since the onset of this pandemic, Pappas has recognized the burden this pandemic has placed on localities and pushed for increased state and local aid. In May, heled the call for House leadership to include robust funding for local governments in the next COVID-19 response package, and thanks to his advocacy the Heroes Act includes more than $1.5 billion in direct assistance to New Hampshire localities and $3.5 billion to the state government. In September, Pappas announced that heco-sponsored legislationto reverse the dangerous decision by FEMA to halt reimbursements for PPE and various other COVID-related expenses incurred by local governments for public schools, public transit, and courthouses. The FEMA Assistance Relief Act of 2020 would help ease financial burdens on states, as well as local and tribal communities that have been granted disaster declarations this year. In May, Reps. Pappas and Kuster (NH-02) joined with mayors, county commissioners, and town officials from across the state to send a letter to House leadershipurging them to ensure local governmentshave access to federal aid moving forward.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/bipartisan-bicameral-bill-led-by-shaheen-collins-and-ruiz-to-ensure-access-to-national-parks-for-disabled-veterans-heads-to-presidents-desk,"Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill Led by Shaheen, Collins & Ruiz to Ensure Access to National Parks for Disabled Veterans Heads to President’s Desk",2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill Led by Shaheen, Collins & Ruiz to Ensure Access to National Parks for Disabled Veterans Heads to President's Desk November 17, 2020 **The Wounded Veterans Recreation Act would give lifetime National Parks passes to all veterans with disabilities related to serving our country** (Washington, DC) Bipartisan, bicameral legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) and Representative Raul Ruiz (D-CA) that would make all veterans who incurred or aggravated disabilities while serving in the U.S. military eligible for free lifetime entry to U.S. national parks and other federal lands has cleared the House of Representatives. The Wounded Veterans Recreation Act previously passed the Senate and after last night's final vote in the House, now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. Under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (FLREA), individuals must be classified as having a permanent disability in order to be eligible for a free National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, leaving uncertainty as to whether all wounded veterans have access to this program. The Wounded Veterans Recreation Act would clarify the current statute to ensure that these heroes have access to America's outdoor recreational lands. We owe our veterans every resource they need to build healthy and happy lives when they come home. The Wounded Veterans Recreation Act is a bipartisan, common-sense bill that will help make good on that effort by amending the law to ensure access to our federal lands and parks, free of charge, to veterans living with service-related disabilities. said Senator Shaheen. This bill would ensure that our veterans forever have free access to visit these beautiful spaces, which can play an important role in their rehabilitation. I'm pleased the House has passed this legislation and urge the President to sign it into law as soon as possible. The brave men and women who have served in our military and have been wounded defending our nation should always have free access to our national parks and recreational areas the American land they fought to protect, said Senator Collins. From Acadia to Denali, and everywhere in between, this legislation will ensure that disabled veterans can continue to access our country's national treasures for outdoor recreation, which can help heal both the visible and invisible wounds of war. ""This is a great outcome for veterans across the country, said Dr. Ruiz. National parks can connect our veterans with nature and increase their spiritual, mental, and physical well-being. The Wounded Veterans Recreation Act will protect free access to these cherished sites for our disabled veterans and improve their overall health. I look forward to seeing the President sign this bill into law to help improve the lives of veterans. The text of the Wounded Veterans Recreation Act can be read here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-recognizes-service-of-usps-workers-during-election-and-pandemic-highlights-urgent-need-to-fully-fund-agency-in-covid-19-relief-legislation-during-virtual-press-conference,"Shaheen Recognizes Service of USPS Workers During Election & Pandemic, Highlights Urgent Need to Fully Fund Agency in COVID-19 Relief Legislation during Virtual Press Conference",2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Recognizes Service of USPS Workers During Election & Pandemic, Highlights Urgent Need to Fully Fund Agency in COVID-19 Relief Legislation during Virtual Press Conference November 17, 2020 (Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) joined members of New Hampshire's American Postal Workers Union (APWU) for a virtual press conference recognizing workers for their service throughout the pandemic and particularly during the recent elections, which relied heavily on absentee voting due to the COVID-19 crisis. Shaheen also highlighted the urgent need to fully fund the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) in COVID-19 relief legislation. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) were also in attendance. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused Americans to rely on USPS more than ever before to receive prescription drugs, do businesses, and more including vote. Out of the 814,499 ballots that were cast in New Hampshire during the 2020 general election, 260,992 about 32 percent were absentee. Despite changes implemented by Postmaster General DeJoy and President Trump that have sought to politicize and undermine USPS' operations, postal workers successfully handled the influx of election mail. However, as a result of staggering financial losses and continued attacks from the Trump administration, the agency is in urgent need of financial assistance. During the event, Shaheen thanked postal workers for successfully handling this year's surge in election mail and urged action in Congress to pass financial relief for the agency to avoid the potential for harmful service cuts. I want to thank our dedicated postal workers for their service to New Hampshire during these incredibly challenging times. Despite the personal health risks they face each day performing their duties and the Trump administration's political attacks to undermine the Postal Service, our postal workers and letter carriers have continued to serve Granite Staters and have even helped to defend our democracy by successfully processing the surge of absentee ballots during the recent election, said Shaheen. But as postal worker union leaders pointed out this morning, the Postal Service is in urgent need of help. The agency is facing steep financial losses and continues to be threatened by the administration's efforts to politicize and undermine its operations. The Postmaster General must stop his harmful attacks, and Senate Majority Leader McConnell must allow the Senate to provide critical relief for the Postal Service. Senator Shaheen has worked to protect the United States Postal Service and its employees against attacks from the Trump administration. In September, she filed several amicus briefsin support of legal challenges to recent operational changes implemented by the USPS that had resulted in unreliable service and widespread delays ahead of the 2020 election. Shecalled for answers on mail delivery concernsthat the NH delegation had heard from Granite Staters. Shaheenpreviously calledon the Postmaster General to answer for the recent changes to long-standing operations that have slowed mail delivery, including demanding immediate actionfollowing reports of significant delaysin veterans' prescription medications. Additionally, Shaheen has repeatedly called foradditional fundingto support the U.S. Postal Service in the next COVID-19 relief package. In August, Shaheen hosteda video callwith unions representing New Hampshire employees of USPS andstood with postal workersto condemn the Trump administration's attacks on the USPS. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-warns-trump-administration-of-dangers-in-sudden-drawdown-of-us-forces-in-afghanistan-and-iraq,Shaheen Warns Trump Administration of Dangers in Sudden Drawdown of U.S. Forces in Afghanistan and Iraq,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Warns Trump Administration of Dangers in Sudden Drawdown of U.S. Forces in Afghanistan and Iraq November 17, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, issued the following statement in response to Acting Secretary of Defense Miller's announcement that the United States will significantly withdraw the number of U.S. forces in Afghanistan and Iraq. President Trump's denial of the election results and outright attacks on our democratic process are alarming in their own right, but coupled with this significant shift in our foreign policy make his actions all the more dangerous, said Shaheen. ""I urge the Trump administration to carefully reconsider any decision to hastily withdraw U.S. troops from Afghanistan and Iraq and to bear in mind the rule of law, U.S. security and the sanctity of our alliances. We cannot allow these countries to, yet again, become a safe haven for terrorists looking to do Americans harm. Further, we cannot leave NATO and our partners in the dark. Any withdrawal must be conditions-based. Congress passed existing laws to ensure that any withdrawal going forward is not based on arbitrary timelines or political considerations. I urge the administration to follow these laws and not cause irreparable harm to our national security, our alliances or to the people of these nations. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/new-hampshire-reaches-500-covid-19-deaths-pappas-urges-congress-bipartisan-push,"New Hampshire Reaches 500 COVID-19 Deaths, Pappas Urges Congress On Bipartisan Push for Pandemic Relief",2020-11-16,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement after New Hampshire reached 500 COVID-19 deaths: ""New Hampshire families are experiencing heartbreaking loss from this pandemic, and nothing can make up for the loss of loved ones taken by this terrible disease,said Congressman Chris Pappas.""I join the people of New Hampshire in mourning the 500 Granite Staters who have died from COVID-19. These individuals leave behind family and friends whose grief and painis profound."" It didn't have to be this way, and it does not have to continue this way. America has seen dark times before, and we have met those moments by coming together with common purpose to solve our challenges. Continued division willonly lead to continued loss, and we've had enough of that. We must work together in a bipartisan fashion to provide reliefto the American people to stop the loss of life, save our small businesses and economy, support American workers, and get us back on our feet. This must be the number one priority for leaders in Washington, and as Congress returns to session this week I am committed to continuing the fight to get New Hampshire the help we need.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/as-nh-marks-500-covid-19-deaths-shaheen-continues-to-call-for-return-to-bipartisan-relief-negotiations-in-congress,"As NH Marks 500 COVID-19 Deaths, Shaheen Continues to Call for Return to Bipartisan Relief Negotiations in Congress",2020-11-16,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"As NH Marks 500 COVID-19 Deaths, Shaheen Continues to Call for Return to Bipartisan Relief Negotiations in Congress November 16, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement in response to New Hampshire losing 500 Granite Staters to COVID-19, calling for Senate Republicans to end their obstruction of bipartisan, comprehensive relief legislation that communities urgently need. COVID-19 cases are surging across the country, including New Hampshire. The United States saw 1 million new cases in less than six days. This is a solemn day for New Hampshire. Five hundred Granite Staters have been taken from us, each one of them a beloved family member, friend or colleague. My thoughts are with the loved ones and community members mourning and with those who are fighting to recover from this virus, said Shaheen. We've seen record-setting figures of infections in New Hampshire and across the country, including one million new cases in under a week. The foot-dragging in Washington to respond to this crisis has to end. Our hospitals and health care providers need resources to meet the surge of hospitalizations; cities and towns need help to keep first responders and teachers on payroll; small businesses need support to keep their doors open and families need assistance to put food on the table. We are still in the middle of this pandemic and our communities need help now. Refusing to come to the negotiating table hurts those who are suffering the most amid this crisis. It is past time for Mitch McConnell's obstruction to end so we can get a deal done the health and safety of Americans depends on it. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-nh-delegation-announce-685k-for-unh-workforce-training-program-for-rural-educators-amid-covid-19,"Shaheen, NH Delegation Announce $685K for UNH Workforce Training Program for Rural Educators Amid COVID-19",2020-11-14,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, NH Delegation Announce $685K for UNH Workforce Training Program for Rural Educators Amid COVID-19 November 14, 2020 **Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, fights to protect and boost funding for this federal grant program during the yearly appropriations process.** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator JeanneShaheen(D-NH) a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee announced today with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) that the University of New Hampshire was awarded a $685,000 federal grant to bolster workforce training for rural educators impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant invests in UNH's 4-H Northeast Collaborative Closing the Gap program and was awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which Senator Shaheen fights to bolster resources for each year in government funding legislation. The COVID-19 crisis exposed existing problems in our communities, many of them felt most severely in our rural and underserved areas that have long struggled with connectivity and access to adequate resources, said Senator Shaheen. This federal grant is an important investment for UNH to help New Hampshire educators, students and families in our rural parts of the state continue their STEM and agricultural sciences education under these incredibly challenging circumstances. Empowering our teachers with the training they need to be effective in a virtual setting and providing students with the tools they need to stay engaged and learn from home must be top priorities to get through this pandemic. As the appropriations process moves forward, I'll continue to fight for this program and other federal initiatives that help New Hampshire's rural and underserved communities. ""The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for students, and I am glad that this significant grant will help young people in our rural communities continue to learn. Specifically, this grant will help to address the technology gap that many of our students experience, and bolster AgriSTEM studies that can be so critical to our rural economies now and for generations to come,"" said Senator Hassan. Itis imperative that we work to ensure that all students are able to succeed as we face the COVID-19 pandemic, said Congresswoman Kuster. Remote learning is a reality in many New Hampshire communities and we must make sure no one is left behind.This funding will help support students, particularly those in underserved and rural communities, by expanding access to the technology they need to continue receiving a quality education through the ongoing public health emergency. In addition, the grant will provide critical workforce training for teachers and invest in the overall wellbeing of students, which is critical during this challenging time. I'll continue working to ensure Granite Staters have the support and resources they need to weather this public health crisis. I'm pleased that the University of New Hampshire will be receiving this federal grant to help support our rural students and educators, said Congressman Pappas. Rural communities continue to be hit hard by this pandemic, and these federal funds to provideworkforce training for educators and increase access to educational technology for students as they continue remote learning will go a long way to helping New Hampshire weather this storm. UNH Cooperative Extension has a long history of serving the youth and educators of New Hampshire and throughout the global pandemic our commitment has not wavered, said Kate Guerdat, Principle Investigator and State 4-H Leader/4-H Youth Development State Specialist at UNH Cooperative Extension. Thanks to support from NIFA, this new collaborative project will utilize existing community-based faculty and staff resources of Cooperative Extension's 4-H Youth Development Program to develop and deliver an innovative K-12 remote learning model for STEM and Agricultural Sciences. We are confident the approaches that will be developed and implemented through this program will help to address the educational, social and emotional challenges that have been exacerbated by remote learning necessitated by the pandemic. Specifically, this grant will be used to help address the educational challenges impacting rural and underserved communities amid the COVID-19 crisis, including workforce training for educators, expanded access to STEM and agricultural sciences for students, and other classroom resources needed as they continue remote learning. The program will also target students' life skills development, provide emotional support and help students better adapt to remote learning. The New Hampshire delegation is working to support students and teachers during the COVID-19 crisis. In March, the lawmakers announced$82 millionto support New Hampshire schools, colleges, and universities as part of the bipartisanCARES Act. Shaheen, Hassan, Kuster and Pappas have continuously pressed Republican leaders in Congress and the administration to resume bipartisan negotiations on COVID-19 relief that provides state and local funding to ensure towns and cities aren't forced to lay off teachers due to the economic crisis spurred by the pandemic. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/icymi-shaheen-secures-50m-to-construct-new-england-drug-lab-to-improve-response-to-substance-use-disorder-crisis-in-appropriations-chairmans-fy21-funding-legislation-calls-for-return-to-bipartisan-negotiations,"ICYMI: Shaheen Secures $50M to Construct New England Drug Lab to Improve Response to Substance Use Disorder Crisis in Appropriations Chairman’s FY21 Funding Legislation, Calls for Return to Bipartisan Negotiations",2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"ICYMI: Shaheen Secures $50M to Construct New England Drug Lab to Improve Response to Substance Use Disorder Crisis in Appropriations Chairman's FY21 Funding Legislation, Calls for Return to Bipartisan Negotiations November 13, 2020 Shaheenunderscores her efforts to address key New Hampshire priorities and the urgent need for good-faith negotiations on COVID-19 relief as annual appropriations process moves forward. **The Union Leader has the full story here.** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator JeanneShaheen(D-NH),the Vice Chair of the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (CJS) Appropriations Subcommittee, issued the following statement after her subcommittee released its government funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2021 on Tuesday. Despite the process that failed to include a full committee markup through her leadership on the subcommitteeSenator Shaheen successfully added measures that provide federal support for key programs that respond to the substance use disorder crisis, help domestic and sexual violence survivors, invest in law enforcement programs and much more. This legislation includes significant federal support to respond to some of the greatest needs in New Hampshire and communities across the country, from addressing the substance use disorder crisis which has been exacerbated by COVID-19 to enhancing community policing, said Shaheen. One of the key issues I fought to address in this year's bill was a gap in our substance use disorder response strategy created by an absence of adequate testing facilities. Currently, samples that may contain fentanyl must be transported by ground to New York and back, delaying testing and wasting valuable time. This legislation would provide funding to construct a new DEA laboratory right here in New England. I'm also pleased by a number of the provisions included to advance community policing and to make important reforms to improve accountability and transparency in our law enforcement agencies. Shaheencontinued, This government funding legislation addresses a number of critical issues but its glaringfailure to includeCOVID-19 relief must be the top concern as the appropriations process moves forward. From sexual violence survivors to first responders on the frontlines of the COVID-19 crisis, every corner of our community has been severely impacted by this pandemic and urgently needshelp. Delivering that assistance and engaging in good-faith negotiations on the final version of this legislation must be the top priority for both parties. Kevin Landrigan with the Union Leader has the full story here. In addition to the CJS appropriations legislation, the 11 other Appropriations Subcommittees also releasedmarkers fortheir FY2021 government funding legislation that would fund the rest of the government for the entire fiscal year. A senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee,Shaheenalso worked to support numerous key New Hampshire priorities addressed in these bills, including a 3 percent pay raise for service members, investments at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, continued funding for the PFAS health impact studyShaheenestablished and much more. All 12 bills will next be negotiated between Senate and House leaders before final legislation is considered by both chambers.Read more on those priorities here. NH Priorities Secured byShaheenin FY21 Senate Commerce, Justice, Science & Related Agencies Subcommittee Appropriations Legislation: Critical Funding for Department of Justice Anti-Opioid Grants SenatorShaheensuccessfullyincluded$539 million for the Department of Justice anti-opioid grant programs, which is an increase of $21 million from FY2020 levels.Shaheenalso successfully retained language sheadded last yearto allowgrant recipientsto be able to useComprehensiveOpioid, Stimulant and Substance Abuse Program(COSSAP)funding which this year will be up to $185 million to also helpthosesuffering from meth and cocaine dependency, in addition to opioid use disorder. Theexpanded coverage for COSSAP was spurred byShaheen'sstandalone bill, theTurn the Tide Act, to help tackle the substance use disorder epidemic. As the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds major anti-opioid programs,Shaheenhas led efforts in Congress to combat the substance use disorder epidemic. In the FY2018 omnibus government funding bill,Shaheenhelped secure the additional $3.3 billion to combat the substance use disorder crisis, including the $142 million set-asidefor hardest-hit states. As a result of the New Hampshire congressional delegation's efforts, New Hampshirereceiveda more thanten-fold increasein opioid treatment funding through theState Opioid Response(SOR)grant program. New DEA Drug Laboratory in New England SenatorShaheensuccessfully secured $50 million in this legislation for the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to construct a new drug laboratory in New England, which presently does not have one, to improve lab testing in the region. Currently, if a samplemaycontainfentanyl it must be transported separately by ground transportation to a drug laboratory in New York City due to laws prohibiting its transfer through the mail. This process has been incredibly difficult for the region because agents mustphysically transport any samples that might contain fentanyl, resulting in hours of travel to New York City and back. The New York Division is also one of the busiest for DEA, anda lab in New England will help both Divisionsmeetdrugtesting demands. Grant Funding for States to Improve Mental Health Services for Law Enforcement & Enhancing Police-Community Relations SenatorShaheensuccessfully added $10 million for the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act, which includes grant funding for state and local law enforcement agencies to use for improved mental health servicesfor officers, training to reduce stigma of officers seeking help and programs to address handling repeated exposure to stress and trauma.Shaheenboosted this investment by $5 millionover previous funding levels. In last year's legislation,Shaheenincluded language directing the Department of Justice to for the first time collect data on law enforcement suicides and report on it. Senator successfully retained that directive in this government funding legislation and added $3 million for the Bureau of Justice Statistics to carry out this measure. SenatorShaheenalso added $150 million in Department of Justice (DOJ) grants to improve police-community relations, which is an increase of $63.5 million above the FY2020 level. The legislation also includes $5 million for the DOJ to create and maintain a database to track excessive use of force and officer misconduct to increase transparency and accountability so officers who've committed violations cannot move from department to department undetected. Additionally, SenatorShaheenfought to include $239 million in COPS Hiring Program grants, which support state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies' ability to hire, preserve and/or rehire law enforcement officers and to increase community policing efforts. This is a $4 million increase over previous funding levels. The legislation also includes $481 million for the Byrne-Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program, which helps law enforcement agencies in New Hampshire and across the country, strengthens the criminal justice system and bolsters services for victims of crime. Highest Funding Level Ever for Violence Against Women Act Programs For the fourth yearin a row, SenatorShaheensuccessfully added the highest funding amount ever for Violence Against Women Act programs, totaling $513.5 million for the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW). This funding legislation boosts funding to eight OVW programs, including the Transitional Housing Program and Rural Program, two key areas with high need that will help states like New Hampshire. In September,Shaheen announced more than $1 millionfor New Hampshire organizations to provide transitional housing and other housing assistance to domestic and sexual violence survivors. Examine Safety of Firefighters' Personal Equipment Shaheen included $2 million for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) personal protective equipment research. Last year, Shaheen introduced bipartisan legislation with Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO), which would take important steps to address concerns regarding firefighters' occupational exposure to PFAS chemicals through their personal protective equipment. Senator Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to address PFAS exposure, and specifically, occupational exposure to the chemicals. Last year's defense bill included Shaheen's bipartisan legislation,the Protecting Military Firefighters from PFAS Act, requiring the Department of Defense (DOD) to include blood testing for PFAS as part of routine physicals for military firefighters, as well as a provision authored by Shaheen that would phase out the use of PFAS in DOD firefighting foams by 2024. Shaheen established the first-ever nationwide PFAS health impact study in the FY 2018 annual defense bill and fought for Pease International Tradeport to be included in the study. Because of her efforts, Pease is serving as a model site for the nationwide study. The study at Pease is actively seeking participants. Continued Financial Relief for New Hampshire and New England Fishermen & Bolstered Investments for NH Ocean Research and Conservation Efforts SenatorShaheenhasrepeatedlypreventedthe National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)from imposing the costly at-sea monitoringfee on Granite State fishermen and once again secured necessary funding to prevent the burden from being imposed on fishermen. The bill includes $10.3 million to cover the observer fees, as well as $2 million for lobster research, $2.5 million for New England groundfish research and $5 million for research and monitoring of the highly-endangered North Atlantic Right Whale, including a pilot program into innovative lobster gear. Shaheensuccessfully increased funding for Sea Grant by $2 million, totaling$76million nationally.Shaheenworked to include a new $500,000 set aside for research into PFAS impacts on coastal waters. Sea Grant is a public-private partnership and collaborates with the University of New Hampshire to study marine and coastal resources and developments. Additionally, the bill includes $78.5million for NOAA's Coastal Zone Management Grant program, which is a $1.5 million increase over previous funding levels. This legislation also boosts funding for NOAA's National Estuarine Research Reserve System operations by $1.5 million and increases funds for construction by $871,000. This is important for New Hampshire's Great Bay, which would be eligible for this pool of federal resources.SenatorShaheenalso worked to secure $169.5 million for NOAA climate research, opposing the Trump administration's effort to cut the program by $85 million in its budget proposal. Increased Funding for the Economic Development Administration Senator Shaheen has consistently opposed efforts by the administration to reduce or eliminate funding for the Economic Development Administration (EDA), which in recent years has awarded grants to Granite State communities for a wide variety of projects ranging from supporting manufacturing growth in Winchester to establishing a revolving loan fund for businesses in Rockingham County. BolstersResearch to Understand the Sun and its Impacts on Earth Senator Shaheenincluded $776 million for theNational Aeronautics and Space Administration's(NASA)HeliophysicsDivisionto studytheSun and its impact on the space environment around the Earth.The results of these studies improve our understanding of the universe and Earth's magnetic field and can help protect astronauts, satellites and communication signals, such as GPS, in space. This funding represents a $51.5 million increase above the FY2020 level and rejects the Trump administration's efforts to cut the program by $91.4 million. The University of New Hampshire is a leading institution inHeliophysicsresearchwith instruments on 16 of 22 operatingheliophysicsmissions.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-leads-senate-call-to-trump-admin-to-rescind-unprecedented-expansion-of-global-gag-rule,Shaheen Leads Senate Call to Trump Admin to Rescind Unprecedented Expansion of Global Gag Rule,2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Leads Senate Call to Trump Admin to Rescind Unprecedented Expansion of Global Gag Rule November 13, 2020 **Shaheen leads the bipartisan effort in the Senate to permanently repeal the Global Gag Rule** **Studyshows the Global Gag Rule impacts a wide range of programs and has vast consequences for critical health services** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator JeanneShaheen(D-NH) a champion for women's global health and the only woman on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee led a group of 34 Senators today, calling on the Trump administration to rescind its unprecedented expansion of the Global Gag Rule (GGR). The GGR, also known as the Mexico City Policy, is an executive order that bans federal funds for foreign non-governmental organizations that use non-U.S. funds to provide abortion services or information about abortion as part of comprehensivefamily planning services. This forces clinics to choose between providing limited reproductive health services while accepting U.S. foreign aid or providing inclusivefamily planning and reproductive health care with a limited budget. The administration's latest attempt to further expand this dangerous policy would cover all contracts that organizations have with the United States for global health work. To date, the policy has only applied to two types of funding mechanisms: grants and cooperative agreements. It is estimated that this expansion would impact an additional 250 contracts and an estimated 40 percent of global health assistance. The public comment period for the administration's proposed rule to expand the GGR ends November 14. The Senators wrote that the GGR, has politicized the sexual and reproductive rights of individuals across the world since 1984. As previously applied to the International Family Planning account, this policy has been used by Republican presidents to restrict how vital health programs are allowed to operate and the information and services that can be provided to program beneficiaries. While this has been a devastating policy under previous administrations, the Trump administration's 2017 decision to dramatically expand the Global Gag Rule to all U.S. global health assistance has magnified its destructive consequences across U.S. foreign assistance. The lawmakers cite a series of issues and consequences that have arisen from the administration's dangerous implementation and expansion of the policy, including disruption in the delivery of health care services, significant compliance burdens for participating partners and exacerbated conditions in vulnerable health systems where restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic have already compromised access to sexual and reproductive health care. The Senators closed their letter with a series of questions and an urgent message for the administration to rescind the ill-conceived policy. They wrote, The Global Gag Rule and this proposed expansion is a direct attack on sexual and reproductive health and rights for women, girls, LGBTQI+ individuals and other vulnerable groups. We are deeply concerned that this administration has acknowledged the harm of this policy, yet continues to pursue it. In order to achieve our global health goals, we seek to ensure that all people are able to access comprehensive and accurate health care and information. Yet this proposed rule makes that impossible and will only exacerbate health inequalities across the globe. A PDF of the letter, which was addressed to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Alex Azar, is available here. Congresswoman Nita Lowey, Chairwoman of the House Committee on Appropriations, led a similar letter in the House of Representatives today. Earlier this year, the U.S. State Department despite its efforts to down play the impact admitted that the Trump administration's enactment and vast expansion of the GGR has disrupted care outside of family planning services, as Shaheen and many warned would happen. A member of both the Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees, Senator Shaheen has been a fierce advocate for women and girls around the globe, including advocating on behalf offamily planning and women's global health, spearheading efforts toend gender-based violence, authoringlegislation to address barriers that girls around the world face in accessing educationand securingwomen leadership roles in conflict resolution and peace negotiations. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/photo-release-shaheen-joins-holiday-cards-4-our-military_nh-challenge,PHOTO RELEASE: Shaheen Joins Holiday Cards 4 Our Military – NH Challenge,2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"PHOTO RELEASE: Shaheen Joins Holiday Cards 4 Our Military NH Challenge November 12, 2020 PHOTO RELEASE: Shaheen Joins Holiday Cards 4 Our Military NH Challenge Shaheen signs holiday cards for American service members as part of the Holiday Cards 4 Our Military NH Challenge. Full-resolution versions of these photos can also be downloaded here. (Washington, DC) This week, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) participated in Laura Landerman-Garber's annual Holiday Cards 4 Our Military NH Challenge, signing cards to help spread holiday cheer and express gratitude to American service members deployed abroad during the holiday season. The Holiday Cards 4 Our Military Challenge began as a tradition among Laura's family 17 years ago, and has grown in scale since then. Last year, the challenge went national, resulting in Americans from over 45 states sending 175,000 holiday cards to American troops around the world. Despite the ongoing difficulties presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, over 30,000 cards have already been collected for the 2020 holiday season. This holiday season, it is so important that we are mindful of our brave service members stationed overseas in defense of our nation. As America and the world confronts the challenges of COVID-19, they bear an especially heavy burden, being unable to be home with their families and loved ones during this difficult time, said Shaheen. As always, it was wonderful to participate in the Holiday Cards 4 Our Military Challenge and send our troops warm holiday wishes and gratitude for their service and sacrifices. I want to thank Laura for her continued, admirable efforts to lift the spirits of our warriors and send them a clear message this holiday season, you are not alone, and you are in our thoughts. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-backed-veteran-suicide-prevention-legislation-headed-presidents-desk,Pappas-backed Veteran Suicide Prevention Legislation Headed to President's Desk for Signature,2020-11-11,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today,Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairsand Chairman of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, applauded the Senate's unanimous passage of critical veteran suicide prevention legislation that he supported, helped to craft, and worked to pass in the House this fall. The legislation now heads to President Trump for his signature.The bill, H.R. 8247, theVeterans' Comprehensive Prevention, Access to Care, and Treatment Act of 2020, or Veterans' COMPACT Act, features 9 provisions to help prevent veteran suicide. There is an epidemic of suicide in our veteran's community that has been going on for far too long with 17 veterans, National Guard members, and reservists dying by suicide each day,said Congressman Pappas.This bipartisan legislation will help ensure veterans get the care they need when they need it, and that support and resources are in place to help save veteran lives. I want to thank Chairman Takano, Chair of the Veterans Affairs Committee, and Ranking Member Roe, for continuing to make veteran suicide prevention a top priority in this Congress. I will continue to work in a bipartisan fashion to guarantee that our veterans in New Hampshire have the care and services that they have earned, and I urge President Trump to sign this bipartisan legislation into law as soon as possible. Among its provisions, the Veterans COMPACT Act includes language co-authored by Congressman Pappas to require annual VA Police de-escalation and crisis intervention training. Congressman Pappas sits on the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs and Chairs the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. This week, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Veterans COMPACT Act, which passed in the U.S. House on September 23rd, 2020. It now heads to President Trump's desk for signature.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-pappas-commemorates-veterans-day,Rep. Pappas Commemorates Veterans Day,2020-11-11,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Click here to watch Rep. Pappas's video honoring New Hampshire veterans MANCHESTER, NH- Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs and Chairman of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, released the following statement to commemorate Veterans Day 2020 and honor New Hampshire veterans: While this Veterans Day looks much different than last year and years before, our thanks and gratitude for the service of American veterans is no less profound. I am the proud grandson of World War II veterans: both my grandfathers were pilots in the war, and my grandmother served in the Coast Guard. And I was raised hearing stories of their service and understanding that the freedoms we enjoy aren't guaranteed and are not to be taken for granted. Those who put on the uniform of this country and fight to defend our way of life deserve our unending respect and thanks. We made a promise to our veterans. And it's one that we reaffirm today and every day. It's a simple promise: if you stand up and defend our liberty and freedom, we must stand up and defend your access to health care and benefits that you've earned - so that you can live in health, dignity, and security. That's why I have been so proud to serve on the House Committee on Veterans Affairs. On that committee, I've worked in a bipartisan fashion to improve care for veterans, hold VA accountable, and ensure that when a veteran comes home, they don't have to face another battle to get the services they have earned. If any New Hampshire veteran is in need of assistance, I encourage them to reach out to my office for help with their VA benefits or other federal needs at (603) 285-4300 orhttps://pappas.house.gov/contact/email-me. My office is here to serve. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-and-hassan-call-on-trumps-justice-department-to-stop-plans-to-make-purdue-pharma-a-public-benefit-corporation,Shaheen & Hassan Call on Trump’s Justice Department to Stop Plans to Make Purdue Pharma a Public Benefit Corporation,2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen & Hassan Call on Trump's Justice Department to Stop Plans to Make Purdue Pharma a Public Benefit Corporation November 10, 2020 This is not justice for the families that have lost loved ones. WASHINGTON, D.C. Following the settlement agreement announced between the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Purdue Pharma (Purdue), U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) joined a group of Senators to call on Attorney General William Barr to stop his Department's plan to have Purdue's business, including its production of Oxycontin, transformed and preserved as a public trust or public benefit company. This proposal, first put forth by Purdue and the Sackler family, would make state and local governments, including those that are currently suing Purdue, owners of the very business that has devastated their communities. The letter was led byTammy Baldwin (D-WI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). The letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ed Markey (D-MA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tina Smith (D-MN) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR). We write to raise concerns about a key element of the Department of Justice's (DOJ) settlement agreement with Purdue Pharma (Purdue) announced on Wednesday, October 21, 2020. We ask that you defer court approval of the proposed agreement until the appropriate stakeholders have addressed public policy concerns associated with the agreement which all but requires Purdue to emerge from bankruptcy as a public benefit company (PBC), to function entirely in the public interest, with proceeds directed toward State and local governments. This arrangement ignores the objections of many of the States themselves, who have no interest in owning or operating a company that has devastated their communities with dangerous opioids, and raises significant public policy concerns, wrote the Senators in their letter. Twenty-five state Attorneys General, including Wisconsin's Attorney General, have already expressed their opposition, noting that A business that killed thousands of Americans should not be associated with government. Purdue's opioid marketing campaign accelerated an opioid epidemic that has claimed an estimated 400,000 lives, and generated $35 billion in revenue for Purdue. The Senators continued, DOJ should not require the States, who are attempting to rectify the harm Purdue has done to their communities, to lead Purdue's public benefit repurposing campaign and take part in an enterprise that has contributed to thousands of American deaths. Given that this plan originated with Purdue and its owners, the Sackler family, it is more likely that its transformation to a PBC will function as a rebranding opportunity for the company and the family's public image. This is not justice for the families that have lost loved ones. We therefore ask that you defer court approval of the proposed agreement until the appropriate stakeholders have addressed these public policy concerns. Such an arrangementrequiring States to own and operate a felonious company they are currently suingis a misuse of federal authority. The full letter is available here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-helps-secure-numerous-nh-priorities-in-fy21-senate-bill-to-boost-pay-for-service-members-increase-assistance-for-first-responders-and-invest-in-nhs-role-in-support-of-us-national-defense,"Shaheen Helps Secure Numerous NH Priorities in FY21 Senate Bill to Boost Pay for Service Members, Increase Assistance for First Responders & Invest in NH’s Role in Support of U.S. National Defense",2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Helps Secure Numerous NH Priorities in FY21 Senate Bill to Boost Pay for Service Members, Increase Assistance for First Responders & Invest in NH's Role in Support of U.S. National Defense November 10, 2020 **Shaheen calls for appropriations process to move forward with focus on COVID-19 relief** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement on the legislation released by the Appropriations Committee's Chairman to fund the federal government for fiscal year (FY) 2021. Despite the process that failed to include a full committee markup, Senator Shaheen worked to include and supported numerous measures that were added to the legislation that invest in important New Hampshire priorities. This government funding legislation addresses a myriad of issues that are top of mind for Granite State families. It boosts pay for our service members, provides resources for first responders including urgently needed suicide prevention measures and prioritizes programs to help our communities turn the tide of the substance use disorder epidemic, which has been exacerbated by COVID-19, said Shaheen. But our work is far from over. As Democrats and Republicans from both chambers come together to finalize this legislation, we need to ensure it rightly addresses the full scope of the COVID-19 health and economic emergencies impacting our communities. We are still in the middle of this pandemic and our country needs a funding bill that will help Americans survive and recover from this crisis. As Vice Chair of the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (CJS) Appropriations Subcommittee, Shaheen helps write the legislation that funds key federal programs that respond to the substance use disorder crisis, help domestic and sexual violence survivors, invest in law enforcement programs and much more. NH PRIORITIES INCLUDED IN FY21 SENATE GOVERNMENT FUNDING LEGISLATION Pay Increase for Service Members Shaheen supported a 3 percent pay increase for service members. Support for Military Spouse Occupational Licensing Senator Shaheen secured $2.75 million to implement her bipartisan legislation with Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) that will improve the transferability of military spouses' occupational licenses, and also help alleviate the burden spouses endure if they're small business owners from having to constantly re-register their businesses as they move from state to state with their families. This legislation was signed into law in 2019 as part of the final FY2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). At a press conference last May, Shaheen highlighted the story of Andrea Krull, whose husband is a Granite Stater, and her personal experience of having to continuously re-establish her business as a consultant with every move. Military Readiness Priorities for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Senator Shaheen supported the inclusion of $160 million for the Multi-Mission Dry Dock project at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. In the FY21 NDAA that's currently being negotiated by Senate and House Armed Services Committee leadership, Shaheen a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee supported the provision that authorizes this funding. In the legislation released today, Senator Shaheen also secured funding for the procurement of one new Virginia-class submarinewhich are repaired and maintained at Portsmouth Naval Shipyardas well as the authorization of $472 million in advance procurement to preserve the option to procure an additional submarine. Shaheen has long been a steadfast supporter of the Virginia-class, and a fierce advocate for Shipyard priorities. Strengthen the Shipbuilding Industrial Base Senator Shaheen, co-chair of the Senate Navy Caucus, supported the inclusion of $20 million for submarine workforce development training and $130 million for submarine industrial base expansion. Investments at Pease Air National Guard Base Senator Shaheen successfully worked to include funding for 15 KC-46 Pegasus refueling tankers in the Senate's FY21 appropriations legislation. Thanks to strong advocacy by Senator Shaheen and the New Hampshire National Guard, Pease was selected as the Air Force's first Air National Guard KC-46 main operating base, an economic benefit to Pease and the surrounding community. The KC-46 replaces the Air Force's 1950's-era aerial refueling fleet of KC-135s and will serve as the backbone of American air operations for decades to come. The last KC-135 departed Pease last year to make way for the KC-46. Federal Assistance for the Beyond Yellow Ribbon' Program to Help Granite State Service Members & Families Senator Shaheen helped secure $22 million for the Beyond Yellow Ribbon (BYR) program, which funds the New Hampshire National Guard's Care Coordination Program. BYR programs provide outreach services to troops returning from deployment, including health care, marriage and financial counseling, substance misuse treatment and mental health services. Support for New Hampshire First Responders A member of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Shaheen worked to include $355 million for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. The AFG program provides direct financial assistance to eligible fire departments in order to enhance the safety of firefighters and the public. Shaheen frequently advocates for New Hampshire fire departments to receive awards through this program. The Senator also helped include $355 million for the Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response Grants (SAFER) program, which provides grants directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to help them increase or maintain the number of trained, ""front line"" firefighters available in their communities. In September, Shaheen announced more than $2 million in SAFER grants for the Hudson and Bedford Fire Departments. Additionally, Senator Shaheen fought to include a provision requiring the U.S. Fire Academy (USFA) to maintain a data set and report on firefighter suicides. It also directs USFA to include an assessment of the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) ability to require reporting of firefighter suicide data in applications for AFG grants and SAFER grants. Understanding the severe trauma and stress impacting police officers, fire fighters and emergency personnel, Shaheen has made prioritizing suicide prevention efforts for first responders a top concern. Grant Funding for States to Improve Mental Health Services for Law Enforcement & Enhancing Police-Community Relations Senator Shaheen successfully added $10 million for the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act, which includes grant funding for state and local law enforcement agencies to use for improved mental health services, training to reduce stigma of officers seeking help and programs to address handling repeated exposure to stress and trauma. In the newly released legislation, Shaheen boosted federal investments by $5 million over previous funding levels. In last year's legislation, Shaheen included language directing the Department of Justice to for the first time collect data on law enforcement suicides and report on it. Senator Shaheen successfully retained that directive in this government funding legislation and added $3 million for the Bureau of Justice Statistics to carry out this measure. Senator Shaheen also added $150 million in Department of Justice (DOJ) grants to improve police-community relations, which is an increase of $63.5 million above the FY20 level. The legislation also includes $5 million for the DOJ to create and maintain a database to track excessive use of force and officer misconduct to increase transparency and accountability so officers who've committed violations cannot move from department to department undetected. Additionally, Senator Shaheen fought to include $239 million in COPS Hiring Program grants, which support state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies' ability to hire, preserve and/or rehire law enforcement officers and to increase community policing efforts. This is a $4 million increase over previous funding levels. Critical Funding for Department of Justice Anti-Opioid Grants Senator Shaheen successfully procured $539 million for the Department of Justice anti-opioid grant programs, which is an increase of $21 million from FY2020 levels. Shaheen also successfully retained language she added last year to allow grant recipients to be able to use Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant and Substance Abuse Program (COSSAP) funding which this year will be up to $185 million to also help those suffering from meth and cocaine dependency, in addition to opioid use disorder. The expanded coverage for COSSAP was spurred by Shaheen's standalone bill, the Turn the Tide Act, to help tackle the substance use disorder epidemic. As the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds major anti-opioid programs, Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to combat the substance use disorder epidemic. In the FY2018 omnibus government funding bill, Shaheen helped secure the additional $3.3 billion to combat the substance use disorder crisis, including the $142 million set-aside for hardest-hit states. As a result of the New Hampshire congressional delegation's efforts, New Hampshire received a more than ten-fold increase in opioid treatment funding through the State Opioid Response (SOR) grant program. Continued Federal Investments for Law Enforcement & Community Prevention Efforts to Combat the Drug Epidemic Senator Shaheen worked to procure $285 million for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program, which provides assistance to federal, state and local law enforcement agencies operating in areas determined to be critical drug-trafficking regions in the United States. Shaheen has previously visited the New England HIDTA headquarters to meet with law enforcement about ongoing efforts to reduce the trafficking of illicit drugs within the region. She also ensured that the bill includes language barring the administration from moving the HIDTA program from the Office of National Drug Control Policy to the Drug Enforcement Administration. New DEA Drug Laboratory in New England Senator Shaheen successfully secured $50 million in the Senate government funding legislation for the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to construct a new drug laboratory in New England, which presently does not have one, to improve lab testing in the region. Currently, if a sample may contain fentanyl it must be transported separately by ground transportation to a drug laboratory in New York City due to laws prohibiting its transfer through the mail. This process has been incredibly difficult for the region because agents must physically transport any samples that might contain fentanyl, resulting in hours of travel to New York City and back. The New York Division is also one of the busiest for the DEA, and a lab in New England will help both Divisions meet drug testing demands. Investments in VA Opioid Prevention & Treatment Programs Senator Shaheen supported the inclusion of $503.6 million for opioid prevention and treatment programs at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which is $104 million higher than last year's funding levels. Shaheen also successfully added a provision that encourages the VA to expand the use of alternative treatments for pain management, including by expanding acupuncture in VA facilities. A leader in the Senate on efforts to respond to the substance misuse epidemic, Shaheen previously introduced the Acupuncture for our Heroes Act to expand access to acupuncturist services for veterans enrolled in the VA health care system. According to a report by the Veterans Health Administration, 80 percent of VA providers identified acupuncture as one of the top three services most often requested by veterans. Currently, only 60 percent of VA health centers provide often limited acupuncture services on site, and 14 percent do not provide acupuncture services at all. Support for Community Coalitions to Prevent & Reduce Substance Misuse Senator Shaheen advocated for $101.2 million for the Drug Free Communities (DFC) Program, which provides grants to local community coalitions to prevent and reduce youth substance misuse. Senator Shaheen has consistently advocated for the DFC program and has led efforts in the Senate to respond to the opioid crisis. Shaheen announced a $250,000 DFC grant for Keene and the Upper Valley region earlier this week. She has hosted DFC roundtable discussions with local students, school administrators, community leaders and youth advocates in Woodsville as well as Milford, where she joined the New Hampshire congressional delegation and ONDCP Director Jim Carroll. Funding for State Opioid Response Grants Senator Shaheen once again successfully advocated for the inclusion of $1.5 billion in State Opioid Response (SOR) grant funding, as well as the continuing of a 15 percent set-aside of those funds for hardest hit states, like New Hampshire, with the highest opioid overdose death rates. Over the past four years, New Hampshire has received approximately $92 million from these grants to combat the opioid epidemic in the state, with the hardest-hit state set-aside responsible for the majority of those funds. The bill also continues to provide flexibility provisions authored by Senator Shaheen that allow for SOR grant dollars to be used to support treatment and recovery for cocaine and methamphetamine misuse, in addition to opioid misuse. Bolster Federal Housing Assistance Resources for Granite Staters in Recovery Shaheen pushed to increase federal support in this funding legislation to provide housing assistance for Granite Staters and Americans across the country who are in recovery due to substance misuse through the SUPPORT Act. Due to Shaheen's advocacy, funding for this program has been increased by $5 million to $30 million and based on the funding formula used, New Hampshire could receive up to $1.4 million in FY21, $250,000 more than FY20. Report on VA Community Care Provider Backlog Senator Shaheen successfully included a provision in the legislation directing the VA to provide Congress with a report on the Department's plan to fully eliminate the backlog in community care provider claims. The report will include the number of outstanding claims nationally and within each Veterans Integrated Service Network, the date by which the VA determines it will eliminate the backlog, additional resources the VA needs to eliminate the backlog and a plan to ensure that future backlogs are prevented or addressed within a reasonable time. Continued Financial Relief for New Hampshire and New England Fishermen & Bolstered Investments for NH Ocean Research and Conservation Efforts Senator Shaheen has repeatedly prevented the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) from imposing the costly at-sea monitoring fee on Granite State fishermen and once again secured necessary funding to prevent the burden from being imposed on fishermen. The bill includes $10.3 million to cover the observer fees, as well as $2 million for lobster research, $2.5 million for New England groundfish research and $5 million for research and monitoring of the highly-endangered North Atlantic Right Whale, including a pilot program into innovative lobster gear. Shaheen successfully increased funding for Sea Grant by $2 million, totaling $76 million nationally. Shaheen worked to include a new $500,000 set aside for research into per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) impacts on coastal waters. Sea Grant is a public-private partnership and collaborates with the University of New Hampshire to study marine and coastal resources and developments. Additionally, the bill includes $78.5 million for NOAA's Coastal Zone Management Grant program, which is a $1.5 million increase over previous funding levels. This legislation also boosts funding for NOAA's National Estuarine Research Reserve System operations by $1.5 million and increases funds for construction by $871,000. This is important for New Hampshire's Great Bay, which would be eligible for this pool of federal resources. Senator Shaheen also worked to secure $169.5 million for NOAA climate research, opposing the Trump administration's effort to cut the program by $85 million in its budget proposal. Additional Federal Resources to Coast Guard Fishing Safety Training & Research Grants Senator Shaheen worked to include $6 million for Coast Guard fishing safety training and research grants. Last year, Shaheen introduced bipartisan legislation with Senators Markey (D-MA), Sullivan (R-AK), King (I-ME), Collins (R-ME), Murkowski (R-AK), Warren (D-MA) and Hassan (D-NH) the Funding Instruction for Safety Health, and Security Avoids Fishing Emergencies (FISH SAFE) Act which would restore the size of the federal share of fishing safety training and research grants. Understanding the daunting conditions that fishermen face on the job, Senator Shaheen has worked across the aisle to support fishing safety programs. Addressing PFAS and Contaminants of Emerging Concern Senator Shaheen helped add more than $50 million to support funding for research, addressing contamination, and undertaking regulatory actions related to PFAS and other contaminants of emerging concern. This includes an additional $1.2 million for the U.S. Geological Survey to continue work to examine and test PFAS compounds in estuaries, lakes, streams, springs, wells, wetlands, soil, and aquifers, with priority given to sampling at sources of drinking water near locations with known or suspected releases of perfluorinated compounds. This funding also includes $20 million to support state efforts to address PFAS through remediation and cleanup. Continued Investments in Shaheen's PFAS Health Impact Study Senator Shaheen has spearheaded efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to PFAS contamination, respond to the chemical exposure and remediate polluted sites. In this new legislation, Senator Shaheen successfully fought to include $15 million to continue the PFAS health impact study that she created in the 2018 NDAA. Senator Shaheen also worked to include $205 million for PFAS remediation. In last year's government funding legislation, she secured numerous provisions that were signed into law to address PFAS contamination. Encourage VA to Establish a PFAS Registry for Veterans Shaheen successfully added language to the legislation that encourages the VA to establish and maintain a registry for veterans who may have been exposed to PFAS due to occupational exposure to Aqueous Firefighting Foam during their military service. Shaheen's provision also encourages the VA to develop a public information campaign to inform eligible individuals about the registry. Shaheen has championed bipartisan legislation with Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD) that would create a national database for service members and veterans experiencing health problems possibly due to contamination from PFAS. The bill would allow military personnel and veterans to receive updates on recent scientific developments on the effects of PFAS exposure, availability of possible treatment options, and information on what resources may be available to address their health concerns. Examine Safety of Firefighters' Personal Equipment Shaheen included $2 million for PFAS personal protective equipment research. Last year, Shaheen introduced bipartisan legislation with Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO), which would take important steps to address concerns regarding firefighters' occupational exposure to PFAS chemicals through their personal protective equipment. Senator Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to address PFAS exposure, and specifically, occupational exposure to the chemicals. Last year's defense bill included Shaheen's bipartisan legislation,the Protecting Military Firefighters from PFAS Act, requiring the Department of Defense (DOD) to include blood testing for PFAS as part of routine physicals for military firefighters, as well as a provision authored by Shaheen that would phase out the use of PFAS in DOD firefighting foams by 2024. Shaheen established the first-ever nationwide PFAS health impact study in the FY 2018 annual defense bill and fought for Pease International Tradeport to be included in the study. Because of her efforts, Pease is serving as a model site for the nationwide study. The study at Pease is actively seeking participants. Improve Access to Quality Health Care for Women Veterans Senator Shaheen supported efforts to prioritize $626 million in this appropriations legislation for women veterans' health care. Women make up approximately 15 percent of current U.S. military personnel and are enrolling for VA benefits at record levels. Over the years, the VA has worked to improve services, resources, facilities and its workforce to make health care more accessible for women veterans; however, there is much that still needs to be done. Women veterans require gender-specific health care services and this funding would help the VA should continue its efforts to provide the necessary resources to provide such care. Highest Funding Level Ever for Violence Against Women Act Programs For the fourth year in a row, Senator Shaheen successfully added the highest funding amount ever for Violence Against Women Act programs, totaling $513.5 million for the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW). The funding legislation released today boosts funding to eight OVW programs, including the Transitional Housing Program and Rural Program, two key areas with high need that will help states like New Hampshire. In September, Shaheen announced more than $1 million for New Hampshire organizations to provide transitional housing and other housing assistance to domestic and sexual violence survivors. In this funding legislation, Senator Shaheen worked to secure $21.5 million for the Intimate Partner Violence Program. The VA Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Program addresses the identification of IPV and access to services for veterans with the aim of maintaining or establishing the physical, emotional and psychological safety and well-being of veterans and their families. Program implementation expands screening, prevention and intervention services to veterans and strengthens collaboration with community partners, as well as with the Caregivers Support Program and VA programs to address homelessness. Adolescent Tobacco & Vaping Prevention Shaheen successfully included a provision in today's legislation requiring a report from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to Congress on the FDA's efforts to update guidance that encourages development of products to stop youth tobacco use. Senator Shaheen is a leader in the Senate to keep tobacco produces out of kids' reach and tackle the youth vaping crisis. Shaheen repeatedly pressed the Trump administration to remove flavored e-cigarettes from the market and led legislation the E-Cigarette Youth Protection Act to require e-cigarette companies to pay fees to the FDA to help fund federal prevention efforts and ensure that the agency has the resources needed to conduct enforcement actions against e-cigarette manufacturers. She's also held multiple meetings with students, educators, law enforcement and health officials across the state about the ongoing public health concern. Senator Shaheen also authored the No Tax Subsidies for E-Cigarette and Tobacco Ads Act to close a tax loophole that allows manufacturers to claim federal tax deductions for the cost of advertising e-cigarettes and tobacco products. Highest Funding Level Ever for the Northern Border Regional Commission Senator Shaheen helped secure $30 million for the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC), which is a $5 million increase above the FY2020 funding level and the highest the program has ever been funded. President Trump's budget proposal sought to eliminate the program entirely. The NBRC helps address community and economic development needs throughout the Northern Forest region. In 2018, Senator Shaheen's bipartisan legislation to extend the authorization of the NBRC and expand its reach to include Cheshire County and communities in Belknap County was included the Farm Bill, which was signed into law. Language in the FY21 funding bill provides NBRC $4 million to address the needs of rural communities impacted by forest product plan closures, $5 million to fund broadband initiatives and $1 million for the State Capacity Building Grant Program, which was established by Shaheen in 2018 to improve the region's capacity for business retention and expansion, increase access to high-speed broadband, and other critical infrastructure. Prioritization of Portsmouth-Piscataqua River Project Senator Shaheen helped procure $7.72 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers (the Corps) to complete necessary infrastructure projects in New Hampshire and across the country. This is $72.1 million above last year's funding level, and includes the funding for small harbors that require off-cycle, emergency dredging, like those in New Hampshire. Shaheen also included language reminding the Corps of the importance of the Portsmouth-Piscataqua River project, which has a high benefit-to-cost ratio and is eligible for construction funding. Once funding legislation is signed into law, the Corps will develop its Work Plan for FY2021, in which Senator Shaheen will continue to urge the Corps to prioritize the Portsmouth-Piscataqua River Project, much like she successfully did for the dredging of Rye and Hampton-Seabrook Harbors. Continued Support for Research and Development in Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy Programs Senator Shaheen worked to secure over $2.848 billion for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), which is an increase of over $58 million above last year's funding level. This includes $305 million for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), a program long-championed by Senator Shaheen that helps to lower energy costs for low-income families by making energy efficiency modifications to their homes. The bill also includes $62.5 million for the State Energy Program (SEP), which assists states with the development of energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Reauthorize Afghan Special Immigrant Visas As the lead in the Senate for the continuation of the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program, Senator Shaheen secured 4,000 additional Afghan SIVs in this spending legislation. The SIV program is the only path to ensuring the safety of Afghan allies that have aided U.S. service members and diplomats. Historically partnering with Senator John McCain (R-AZ) on this priority, Shaheen continues to lead bipartisan efforts in Congress to reauthorize additional Afghan SIVs. Direct U.S. Government to Prioritize Afghan Women's Inclusion in Peace Negotiations Senator Shaheen successfully added a provision requiring the U.S. government to promote and ensure the meaningful participation of Afghan women in ongoing peace negotiations and to prioritize the protection of women and girls and their rights. Shaheen's measure also requires efforts by the U.S. government to ensure that any agreement protects women's and girls' rights and ensures their access to education and work, freedom of movement, health care and legal representation. Shaheen has led efforts in Congress pushing the Trump administration to prioritize Afghan women's inclusion in peace negotiations. Senator Shaheen has repeatedly pushed Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the administration making women's inclusion in Afghan peace negotiations a U.S. foreign policy priority. In a hearing last year, Shaheen slammed Pompeo on the State Department's reticence to support the rights of Afghan women during peace talks. In February 2019, Shaheen led a letter to Secretary Pompeo, urging the administration to prioritize Afghan women's inclusion in peace negotiations between the United States and the Taliban in Afghanistan, and to protect the United States' investment in the rights of women and girls. During a congressional delegation visit to Afghanistan last June, Shaheen met with a group of Afghan women who described how dramatically their lives had improved since the Taliban government was toppled nearly 2 decades ago.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-statement-ahead-of-veterans-day,Shaheen Statement Ahead of Veterans Day,2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Statement Ahead of Veterans Day November 10, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) released the following statement ahead of Veterans Day: On Veterans Day, we honor and reflect on the tremendous service and sacrifice of the men and women who have served our nation in uniform. New Hampshire has a strong tradition of military service, and I join all Granite Staters in expressing my deepest gratitude to all who have answered the call of duty, especially our service members currently stationed overseas, said Shaheen. This year, we celebrate our veterans at the end of a bitter election season a time that too often serves to divide our nation rather than bring us together in common purpose. But we must remember that each vote cast was a reminder that we live in a free and democratic society because so many have volunteered to defend that government of the people, by the people, for the people. It is our duty and promise to our veterans that we never forget their service nor lose sight of the freedoms they fought to secure. I have sought in the Senate to honor that service by working to ensure that our veterans have access to the health care and the benefits they need, and will always have their well-being at heart in pursuing policies that lift our veteran community up. Theyhave never failed us in service to our nation, and we must not fail them when they return home. Tomorrow, Senator Shaheen will deliver remarks at the New Hampshire Veterans Cemetery Veterans Day Ceremony. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/shaheen-hassan-pappas-announce-600k-investment-establish-loan-fund-serve-small,"Shaheen, Hassan & Pappas Announce $600K Investment to Establish Loan Fund to Serve Small Businesses in Lakes Region",2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH),U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) announced a $600,000 federal loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to the Wentworth Economic Development Corporation (WEDCO) in Wolfeboro to establish a loan fund. The investment was awarded by USDA's Intermediary Relending Program and will be used to provide critical financing to Lakes Region small businesses and entrepreneurs. The funds will help 16 rural businesses, retain 60 full-time jobs, and create 30 new jobs. New Hampshire small businesses are the backbone of our economy and need continued support and capital during this pandemic. This federal funding for the Wentworth Economic Development Corporation is a crucial investment for small business across the Lakes Region and will help them sustain and create jobs as New Hampshire recovers from this economic crisis. I will continue to advocate for federal resources to support New Hampshire small businesses and workers in upcoming COVID-19 relief packages,said Congressman Pappas. Granite State small businesses need access to capital to weather the economic impact of COVID-19, return to normal operations and continue to develop and grow, said Senator Shaheen. These new federal funds for WEDCO are an important investment that will support Lakes Region businesses, sustain and create jobs, and strengthen our state's recovery from this crisis. I'll keep fighting for federal resources and work across the aisle to ensure assistance for Granite State businesses and workers are prioritized in additional COVID-19 relief legislation. This new loan fund will help provide much-needed support for small businesses in the Lakes Region, boosting their economic recovery and helping provide more Granite Staters secure stable, good-paying jobs, Senator Hassan said. I will keep working across the aisle to help our small businesses get through this challenging time, including by pushing for an additional, comprehensive relief package that includes direct support for businesses and families.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/as-us-surpasses-10-million-covid-19-cases-shaheen-doubles-down-on-calls-for-bipartisan-negotiations-on-relief-legislation,"As U.S. Surpasses 10 Million COVID-19 Cases, Shaheen Doubles Down on Calls for Bipartisan Negotiations on Relief Legislation",2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"As U.S. Surpasses 10 Million COVID-19 Cases, Shaheen Doubles Down on Calls for Bipartisan Negotiations on Relief Legislation November 09, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement in response to the United States surpassing 10 million COVID-19 cases, calling for Senate Republicans to end their obstruction of bipartisan, comprehensive relief legislation that communities urgently need. More than 10 million Americans have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and we're seeing record-high surges across the country, including spikes here in New Hampshire. As our communities prepare for a difficult winter, Congress needs to respond to the full scope of this crisis and deliver the relief that health care providers, small business owners, families and all those impacted by the pandemic desperately need, said Shaheen. The foot-dragging and partisan obstruction is hurting those who need assistance the most. It has to stop. Our country has a lot of healing to do to bridge the rifts that have formed in our society, and especially during these challenging times, that has never been more critical. We wrote the CARES Act together, across party lines and through good-faith negotiations, and I believe we can do it again. We can and must get this done. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/icymi_following-calls-from-the-nh-delegation-to-investigate-low-quality-food-supplies-provided-for-families-in-need-usda-announces-new-distributor-to-nh-food-bank,"ICYMI – Following Calls from the NH Delegation to Investigate Low-Quality Food Supplies Provided for Families in Need, USDA Announces New Distributor to NH Food Bank",2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"ICYMI Following Calls from the NH Delegation to Investigate Low-Quality Food Supplies Provided for Families in Need, USDA Announces New Distributor to NH Food Bank November 09, 2020 **The announcement follows calls from the NH congressional delegation, demanding an investigation into the previous USDA-chosen distributor's delivery of food boxes containing low-quality fruit, vegetables and pork to the NH Food Bank** (Washington, DC) Following a letter from U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) expressing concern about the delivery of inferior, low-quality food products for Granite State families in need amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced it has selected a new distributor for the New Hampshire Food Bank under the Farmers to Families Food Box Program. Vincent Farms a Delaware-based food distributor had been awarded the previous contract with the USDA to supply food to the New Hampshire Food Bank through the Farmers to Families Food Box Program. However, the products provided to the New Hampshire Food Bank were of significantly inferior nutritional quality compared to food supplies provided previously by a different distributor. When concerns about the quality of food were raised to the congressional delegation, Shaheen, Hassan, Kuster and Pappas called on USDA to investigate the claims immediately. The lawmakers' demand for an investigation into the matter resulted in the selection of a new distributor to the New Hampshire Food Bank for the fourth round of the Farmers to Families Food Box Program. WMUR's Kristen Carosa has the story, which can be read here or in full below. New Hampshire Food Bank forces change in distributor after families return poor quality food from USDA program Congressional delegation calls for investigation after boxes sent with bad fruit, scrapple By KRISTEN CAROSA MANCHESTER, N.H. The New Hampshire Food Bank has a new distributor after receiving complaints about low-quality food coming from a federal program. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm to Trunk program started in May to help feed families during the pandemic. Food bank staff members said that at first, the food being given out was fine, but then another distributor stepped in and the quality of the food started to go down. ""It does not represent what the food bank's nutritional standards are, yet alone what we should be trying to deliver during a pandemic to boost immune systems,"" said Food Bank Director Eileen Liponis. ""We have never had this before. We have some families returning the boxes. They say, 'No, this isn't worth it.'"" The food inside the boxes was low-quality fruit, vegetables and pork, such as scrapple. ""For those of you who are not familiar with it, it's a Southern product that makes Spam look like Grade A ham, and the only protein they gave us was pork, and that alienates a certain population, and we don't want to alienate anybody,"" Liponis said. Liponis contacted New Hampshire's congressional delegation, who wrote a letter to the secretary of agriculture expressing concern about the supplier, Delaware-based Vincent Farms. ""Sometimes the squeaky wheel can make a change,"" Liponis said. The delegation said the USDA was paying $40 to $60 a box, and the value of what was being given to the food bank was estimated to be $10 to $12. The delegation went on to say that each tractor-trailer being sent carries more than 1,000 boxes, which would allow the distributor to pocket $30,00 to $50,000. ""Now more than ever, the New Hampshire Food Bank is relying on federal resources like the Farmers to Families Food Box program to provide vulnerable Granite State families with access to high-quality, nutritious food supplies,"" U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen said in a written statement. ""Reports that the USDA-chosen distributor through this program has been delivering inferior, low-quality food products are shocking and unacceptable, especially in the midst of a national health and economic crisis. The USDA must investigate these allegations and I will continue to do everything in my power to help keep families fed and safe."" The delegation is now requesting an investigation. ""I don't know what's going to come out of that, but word has gotten out that we were not happy, and this next distributor that has gotten the award is making sure they don't get themselves in the same pickle,"" Liponis said. She said the food is critical to help families through the holidays and winter. ""We are just hopeful that this is going to be a good product to get folks through the holidays,"" she said. ""We are prepared to keep doing this, whether or not the USDA program is here or not. We are prepared to do mobile food pantries throughout the winter."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-and-kuster-announce-250k-for-youth-substance-use-prevention-efforts-in-keene-and-upper-valley-region,"Shaheen, Hassan and Kuster Announce $250K for Youth Substance Use Prevention Efforts in Keene & Upper Valley Region",2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan and Kuster Announce $250K for Youth Substance Use Prevention Efforts in Keene & Upper Valley Region November 09, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) announced $250,000 in Drug Free Communities (DFC) grants from the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) to two local drug prevention coalitions in New Hampshire. The grants will provide the Keene YMCA Community Coalition on Youth Substance Use and All Together in the Upper Valley region funding to prevent youth substance misuse, including prescription drugs and opioids. The DFC Program is administered by ONDCP with program support from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). DFC coalitions have led innovative opioid prevention initiatives and have demonstrated significant declines in prevalence of prescription drug misuse amongst participants. Youth drug prevention coalitions do lifesaving work to protect children from substance misuse in our effort to stop another generation from succumbing to this epidemic. As the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbates the substance use disorder crisis, we need to ensure these programs have the resources they need to maintain existing programs and reach more people,said Senator Shaheen. I am pleased to announce these grants, which will help Keene, Swanzey and communities in the Upper Valley region with important youth drug prevention efforts. Delivering federal resources to our communities to help combat the substance use disorder epidemic will continue to be one of my top priorities so that together we can turn the tide of this crisis. These federal grants to youth drug prevention coalitions in New Hampshire will help in our efforts to stem the tide of substance misuse among our young people, Senator Hassan said. These federal dollars are particularly important as the COVID-19 pandemic has strained resources for prevention and recovery organizations across our state. I will continue to fight alongside the rest of the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation to secure critical resources to help prevent substance misuse among Granite Staters of all ages. Youth substance misuse prevention programs play a critical role in preventing substance abuse and combating the substance misuse epidemic in New Hampshire and nationwide, said Congresswoman Kuster. With the COVID-19 pandemic worsening the addiction crisis and making it more difficult for those who are struggling to access the care they need, it is imperative that these programs have the necessary funding and resources. I am proud to join my colleagues to help announce this important investment in our state's wellbeing and I will continue working to fight the substance misuse crisis. Senator Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Department of Justice which oversees numerous programs to combat substance use disorder, has consistently advocated for the DFC program and with Senator Hassan, has led efforts in the Senate to respond to the opioid crisis. Shaheen has hosted DFC roundtable discussions with local students, school administrators, community leaders and youth advocates inWoodsvilleas well as Milford,where she joined the New Hampshire congressional delegation and ONDCP Director Jim Carroll. In 2018, Senators Shaheen and Hassanhelped negotiatea bipartisan agreement that resulted in a large national increase in opioid treatment funding through the State Opioid Response (SOR) grant program over two years including$28 million this year. The Senatorshelped negotiate a 15 percent set-asideof federal funding for hardest hit states, which has helped states hardest hit, like New Hampshire. These combined efforts led to a1000% increasein federal treatment and prevention funding for New Hampshire.Last year, Senator Shaheen spearheaded new legislationtheTurn the Tide Act to increase the availability of substance use disorder treatment. A key component of her legislation to allow treatment providers to use SOR grants to treat help patients suffering from methamphetamine and cocaine dependency, in addition to opioid use disorder,was included in funding legislationsigned into law in December.As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact New Hampshire, the congressional delegation hasrepeatedly called for additional fundingfor substance use disorder services in a COVID-19 relief package. Earlier this month, Shaheen and the New Hampshire Congressional delegation announced $1.75 million to fund a Family Treatment Court (FTC) pilot project the state's first FTC in Sullivan County to help enhance access to services for children and families experiencing abuse and neglect, and those impacted by substance use disorder (SUD) and/or mental illness. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-and-pappas-announce-600k-investment-to-establish-loan-fund-to-serve-small-businesses-in-lakes-region,"Shaheen, Hassan & Pappas Announce $600K Investment to Establish Loan Fund to Serve Small Businesses in Lakes Region",2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan & Pappas Announce $600K Investment to Establish Loan Fund to Serve Small Businesses in Lakes Region November 09, 2020 **The federal investment will assist an estimated 16 rural businesses, retain 60 full-time jobs and create 30** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations and Small Business & Entrepreneurship Committees, announced with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) a $600,000 federal loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to the Wentworth Economic Development Corporation (WEDCO) in Wolfeboro to establish a loan fund. The investment was awarded by USDA's Intermediary Relending Program and will be used to provide critical financing to Lakes Region small businesses and entrepreneurs. The funds will help 16 rural businesses, retain 60 full-time jobs and create 30 new jobs. Granite State small businesses need access to capital to weather the economic impact of COVID-19, return to normal operations and continue to develop and grow, said Senator Shaheen. These new federal funds for WEDCO are an important investment that will support Lakes Region businesses, sustain and create jobs and strengthen our state's recovery from this crisis. I'll keep fighting for federal resources and work across the aisle to ensure assistance for Granite State businesses and workers are prioritized in additional COVID-19 relief legislation. This new loan fund will help provide much-needed support for small businesses in the Lakes Region, boosting their economic recovery and helping provide more Granite Staters secure stable, good-paying jobs, Senator Hassan said. I will keep working across the aisle to help our small businesses get through this challenging time, including by pushing for an additional, comprehensive relief package that includes direct support for businesses and families. New Hampshire small businesses are the backbone of our economy and need continued support and capital during this pandemic. This federal funding for the Wentworth Economic Development Corporation is a crucial investment for small business across the Lakes Region and will help them sustain and create jobs as New Hampshire recovers from this economic crisis. I will continue to advocate for federal resources to support New Hampshire small businesses and workers in upcoming COVID-19 relief packages, said Congressman Pappas. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/following-call-swift-release-funds-nh-delegation-announces-more-25-million,"Following Call for Swift Release of Funds, NH Delegation Announces More than $25 Million in Heating Assistance Help",2020-11-08,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH),U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) announced that New Hampshire is set to receive $25,117,942 in assistance under the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The announcement follows calls from Shaheen and Hassan to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as swiftly as possible under the current continuing resolution. LIHEAP is a federally funded program that provides eligible low-income households with help paying a portion of their heating and utility bills. Eligibility is based on a household's combined income as well as the number of residents. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, ensuring Granite State families and seniors have access to heating and energy assistance has been a top priority for Senator Shaheen. Shaheen hashistorically saved and boosted funding for LIHEAP, which President Trump's budget proposals have repeatedly sought to eliminate. LIHEAP provides assistance to more than 28,000 Granite Staters, many of them families, seniors and people with disabilities. With the coming of colder weather, we need to ensure low-income families and seniors throughout New Hampshire, many of whom have been hit hard by the economic impact of COVID-19, have access to the help they need to stay warm, said Senator Shaheen. This crucial heating assistance will help ensure vulnerable Granite Staters don't have to choose between paying their heating bills and paying for essentials like food or medicine. Though I'm pleased HHS has released this funding, more is needed to protect those most at risk. I'll continue to work across the aisle to secure additional heating assistance funds and relief Granite Staters need to get through this health and economic crisis. ""I am gladthat the Department of Health and Human Services heeded our bipartisan call to get critical funding out the door to ensure that our most vulnerable citizens can heat their homes as temperatures continue to drop,"" said Senator Hassan. ""Amid the public health and economic challenges of the COVID-19, it is more important than ever that Granite Staters who are struggling to put food on the table and and pay their bills can receive the support that they need to stay safe in their homes."" As the weather gets colder and people across the state continue to experience economic challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it's especially important that vulnerable Granite Staters have the assistance they need to stay warm, said Representative Kuster. I'm glad that the Department of Health and Human Services responded to our bipartisan call to quickly release this important funding to help ensure heating and utility bills don't prevent families from paying for essentials like prescription medications and food. I will continue working to secure the resources and funding Granite Staters need to get through the winter months and the COVID-19 crisis. As the weather grows colder and families across our state continue to grapple with the far-reaching economic impacts of COVID-19, it is critical we continue to fund social safety nets such as energy the assistance programs,said Representative Pappas.I am glad that HHS has made funds available to assist some of the most vulnerable Granite Staters stay safe in their homes as we continue to work with all of our federal agencies supporting Granite Staters through these difficult economic times.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/following-call-for-swift-release-of-funds-nh-delegation-announces-more-than-25-million-in-heating-assistance-help,"Following Call for Swift Release of Funds, NH Delegation Announces More than $25 Million in Heating Assistance Help",2020-11-08,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Following Call for Swift Release of Funds, NH Delegation Announces More than $25 Million in Heating Assistance Help November 08, 2020 **The announcement follows calls from Shaheen and Hassan to the Trump administration urging the rapid release of LIHEAP funds at the highest level possible** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) announced that New Hampshire is set to receive $25,117,942 in assistance under the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The announcement follows calls from Shaheen and Hassan to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as swiftly as possible under the current continuing resolution. LIHEAP is a federally funded program that provides eligible low-income households with help paying a portion of their heating and utility bills. Eligibility is based on a household's combined income as well as the number of residents. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, ensuring Granite State families and seniors have access to heating and energy assistance has been a top priority for Senator Shaheen. Shaheen hashistorically saved and boosted funding for LIHEAP, which President Trump's budget proposals have repeatedly sought to eliminate. LIHEAP provides assistance to more than 28,000 Granite Staters, many of them families, seniors and people with disabilities. With the coming of colder weather, we need to ensure low-income families and seniors throughout New Hampshire, many of whom have been hit hard by the economic impact of COVID-19, have access to the help they need to stay warm, said Senator Shaheen. This crucial heating assistance will help ensure vulnerable Granite Staters don't have to choose between paying their heating bills and paying for essentials like food or medicine. Though I'm pleased HHS has released this funding, more is needed to protect those most at risk. I'll continue to work across the aisle to secure additional heating assistance funds and relief Granite Staters need to get through this health and economic crisis. ""I am gladthat the Department of Health and Human Services heeded our bipartisan call to get critical funding out the door to ensure that our most vulnerable citizens can heat their homes as temperatures continue to drop,"" said Senator Hassan. ""Amid the public health and economic challenges of the COVID-19, it is more important than ever that Granite Staters who are struggling to put food on the table and and pay their bills can receive the support that they need to stay safe in their homes."" As the weather gets colder and people across the state continue to experience economic challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it's especially important that vulnerable Granite Staters have the assistance they need to stay warm, said Representative Kuster. I'm glad that the Department of Health and Human Services responded to our bipartisan call to quickly release this important funding to help ensure heating and utility bills don't prevent families from paying for essentials like prescription medications and food. I will continue working to secure the resources and funding Granite Staters need to get through the winter months and the COVID-19 crisis. As the weather grows colder and families across our state continue to grapple with the far-reaching economic impacts of COVID-19, it is critical we continue to fund social safety nets such as energy the assistance programs,said Representative Pappas.I am glad that HHS has made funds available to assist some of the most vulnerable Granite Staters stay safe in their homes as we continue to work with all of our federal agencies supporting Granite Staters through these difficult economic times. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/nh-delegation-announces-more-than-467k-through-nbrc-and-usda-to-support-granite-state-outdoor-recreation_forest-economies,NH Delegation Announces More Than $467K through NBRC & USDA to Support Granite State Outdoor Recreation & Forest Economies,2020-11-08,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"NH Delegation Announces More Than $467K through NBRC & USDA to Support Granite State Outdoor Recreation & Forest Economies November 08, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) that New Hampshire has been awarded $467,410 from the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support the state's outdoor recreation and forest economies. Specifically, $290,056 was awarded to the Appalachian Mountain Club to deliver trail building, stewardship and recreation management skills trainings annually to 200 Granite Staters, allowing them to meet the workforce needs of the New Hampshire's outdoor recreation economy. $177,354 was awarded to the Northern Forest Center, allowing the organization to provide technical and market development assistance to wood products businesses in the NBRC region through the COVID-19 pandemic. These grants will be allocated through NBRC and USDA's State Economic & Infrastructure Development program and help create and retain jobs and promote economic growth in rural Granite State communities. Federal resources from agencies like the NBRC and USDA play a key role in promoting economic growth and development in rural communities throughout New Hampshire, said Senator Shaheen. These new grants will empower rural communities by preparing Granite Staters to thrive in our state's growing outdoor recreation sector and providing businesses in the forest economy crucial to the vitality of the region with the support they need to weather and recover from COVID-19. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I'll continue to fight for funding that invests in the future of Granite State communities. ""These federal grants will support economic growth and outdoor recreation by providing crucial funding for the Appalachian Mountain Club's training programs and the Northern Forest Center that assists wood products businesses hit by the COVID-19 pandemic,"" said Senator Hassan. ""I will continue to work across party lines to protect and increase funding for the Northern Border Regional Commission so that rural communities across our state get the support that they need to thrive."" This federal funding from the Northern Border Regional Commission and the Department of Agriculture is an important investment in our state's outdoor recreation and forest economies, said Representative Kuster. During the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, these grants will be especially helpful to our rural New Hampshire communities by supporting local workforce needs and providing assistance to wood product businesses in the region. I'll continue working to secure increased funding to bolster rural economic development in the state. The Northern Border Regional Commission does critical work to support New Hampshire's regional economy, and that help is more important than ever as our businesses continue to adapt to these unprecedented times,said Representative Pappas.These federal dollars will go a long way to strengthen recreation businesses and local manufacturers, which are key drivers of New Hampshire's economy. I will continue to work with our federal delegation and our local businesses to ensure they weather this storm. Senator Shaheen,a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has led efforts in Congress thatsupport and investin the NBRC, and included her bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and expand the NBRC's reach in the Farm Bill that wassigned into law in 2018. With support from Rep. Kuster, the legislation expanded the NBRC to include Cheshire County and communities in Belknap County. Shaheen has also worked to includedlanguage to ensure portions of NBRC funds be directed to assist rural communities affected by past mill closures, as well as support new markets and the infrastructure needs of the forest products industry. In August,the delegation announcedthat New Hampshire agencies and organizations were awarded $4,443,428 by the NBRC.Earlier this year, Shaheenled a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakersrepresenting New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont and New York in a letter to congressional leadership calling for the inclusion of dedicated funding for the NBRC in COVID-19 relief legislation. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-congratulates-president-elect-biden-and-vice-president-elect-harris,Pappas Congratulates President-Elect Biden and Vice President-Elect Harris,2020-11-07,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today,Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01)released the following statement congratulating President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris: I send my sincere congratulations to President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris,said Congressman Pappas.Our country needs to unite with common purpose, and I am confident that these two leaders can bring Americans together and move us forward. There is critical work ahead including defeating COVID-19 and bringing our economy back from the brink - and we all have a role to play. This work begins by coming together as a nation, and I look forward to working with the incoming administration and leaders in both parties to solve these challenges. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-congratulates-president-elect-joe-biden,Shaheen Congratulates President-Elect Joe Biden,2020-11-07,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Congratulates President-Elect Joe Biden November 07, 2020 (Manchester, NH) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement after former Vice President Joe Biden was projected to win Pennsylvania, securing enough electoral votes to become the 46th President of the United States: I want to congratulate President-elect Biden on running a successful campaign that was focused on the issues that matter to American families, said Shaheen. We need to heal the deep divisions in our country and I know President Biden will work tirelessly to unite all Americans. There is so much work that needs to be done that necessitates bipartisan cooperation, such as helping families and small businesses get through the COVID-19 pandemic, making health care more affordable, repairing our nation's infrastructure, tackling climate change and providing treatment to those suffering from substance use disorders. Granite Staters want to see progress to move our State and country forwardI'm ready to get to work. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/amid-concerns-of-political-interference-into-climate-research-by-new-trump-admin-appointees-shaheen-calls-on-noaa-to-affirm-agencys-scientific-integrity-and-independence,"Amid Concerns of Political Interference into Climate Research by New Trump Admin Appointees, Shaheen Calls on NOAA to Affirm Agency’s Scientific Integrity & Independence",2020-11-02,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Amid Concerns of Political Interference into Climate Research by New Trump Admin Appointees, Shaheen Calls on NOAA to Affirm Agency's Scientific Integrity & Independence November 02, 2020 **Shaheen calls on NOAA to uphold its Scientific Integrity Policy as the Trump administration installs several new political appointees at NOAA including Dr. David Legates, a well-known climate change denier** (Washington, DC) Amid concerns of political interference into the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) climate research and data, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds NOAA, sent a letter today to acting Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and NOAA Administrator Dr. Neil Jacobs calling on the agency to confirm that it will uphold its Scientific Integrity Policy. Over the last few months, the Trump administration has installed several new political appointees at NOAA, including Dr. David Legates - a well-known climate change denier - as a Senior Advisor. This has led to fears of political interference into the critical scientific research and data that NOAA performs and produces on behalf of the American people. Shaheen wrote, As one the Nation's preeminent scientific agencies, it is imperative that NOAA scientists and staff can present research and results absent political interference or censorship. Shaheen expressed her concern with the removal of Craig McLean, NOAA's former Acting Chief Scientist, from his role after he sent a message requesting that the new political appointees acknowledge the agency's Scientific Integrity Policy, which prohibits manipulating research or presenting ideologically driven findings. She continued, I am also concerned that the installation of several new political appointees, including a well-known climate denier, could politicize and stifle NOAA's scientific research, particularly related to climate change. As the agency's leader, you have critical role in ensuring that scientific research and communication is allowed to flourish unimpeded. In her role as the Vice Chair of the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, Shaheen has worked across the aisle to ensure NOAA receives sufficient funding to perform its important scientific missions, including $169.5 million for climate research as part of the fiscal year 2020 omnibus. With reports revealing that Chief of Staff Noble has pushed to install a new layer of scrutiny on grants that NOAA awards for climate research, Shaheen also requested additional information on this effort, as well as information on the roles recent political appointees Dr. Ryan Maue, NOAA's new Chief Scientist and Senior Advisor Dr. Legates are playing in preparing the next National Climate Assessment. The full text of the letter can be downloaded here. This is not the first time the administration has politicized the historically non-partisan agency. Last year, the Trump administration doctored an official NOAA map, that Hurricane Dorian would impact Alabama. There were alsoreportsthat Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross threatened the careers of those who contradicted the President's unsubstantiated claims on Hurricane Dorian's projection. In response to a NOAA statement that later reprimanded National Weather Service (NWS) experts in the Birmingham Weather Forecast Office (WFO) for communicating to the public that Hurricane Dorian would not impact Alabama effectively countering the President's unsubstantiated claims Shaheen called on the Commerce Department's Inspector General to investigate whether NOAA's statement violated NOAA's Administrative Order on Scientific Integrity or other relevant statutes. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-reads-to-londonderry-students-as-guest-reader-to-highlight-matthew-thornton-elementary-school-book-fair,Shaheen Reads to Londonderry Students as Guest Reader to Highlight Matthew Thornton Elementary School Book Fair,2020-11-02,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Reads to Londonderry Students as Guest Reader to Highlight Matthew Thornton Elementary School Book Fair November 02, 2020 **Watch Shaheen's video here** (Manchester, NH) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) was a guest reader for Matthew Thornton Elementary School students in Londonderry, New Hampshire to help highlight the school's book fair, which runs through November 8th. Shaheen's video aims to share the joy and excitement of reading with students and encourage them to find a book to read. Shaheen read Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein, a collection of humorous, imaginative poems that have been childhood classics for decades. You can view Senator Shaheen's video here. During such a difficult and stressful time for New Hampshire's children, reading has never been more important. It is such a powerful tool, allowing kids to be transported to new, faraway lands, create friendships with new characters, feel hope and alleviate uncertainty and doubt, said Shaheen. I'm thankful to the teachers and administrators at Matthew Thornton for giving me the opportunity to join their students and share in the excitement of reading. I applaud them for their tremendous work during this pandemic to keep up the spirits of their students and ensure they continue to get the best education possible. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-cosponsored-olympic-reform-legislation-signed-into-law,Shaheen-Cosponsored Olympic Reform Legislation Signed into Law,2020-10-31,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen-Cosponsored Olympic Reform Legislation Signed into Law October 31, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement after theEmpowering Olympic, Paralympic, and Amateur Athlete Actwas signed into law. Shaheen cosponsored the sweeping legislation that will reform the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) in the wake of abuse allegations that impacted nearly all corners of Olympic sport. The bill was introduced by U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and followed an eighteen-month investigation into systemic abuse within the U.S. Olympic movement. Shaheen has led bipartisan efforts in Congress to hold the U.S. Olympic Committee accountable and protect the health and safety of American athletes. In February 2018, Shaheenintroduced a resolution with U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) to establish a special committee in the Senate to investigate how the U.S. Olympic Committee (USOC) and USA Gymnasticsfailed to stop USA Gymnastics coach Larry Nassar from sexually abusing female gymnasts over decades. In June 2018, during testimony before the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Insurance and Data Security,Senator Shaheen called on Congress to review USOC's federal charterto provide more oversight and fair compensation to American athletes. This historic legislation is a testament to the brave survivors who stepped forward and courageously shared their stories to demand and enact change at the highest level. Because of their tireless work, this bill will improve accountability and transparency at the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee to make sure the system better protects U.S. athletes today the way it should have all along, said Shaheen. It is long past time for meaningful reform to confront the systemic problems that enabled this cycle of abuse against U.S. Olympic, Paralympic and amateur athletes. I'm glad Congress got this done and that it is now the law of the land. This is an important step forward, but our work to enact protections and seek justice for all survivors goes on. The bipartisanEmpowering Olympic, Paralympic, and Amateur Athletes Act: Empowers athletes by giving them a seat at the decision-making table, and significantly increases athlete representation on governing boards, committees and panels within National Governing Bodies (NBGs) and the USOPC to help identify problematic policies and practices faster, while prioritizing athlete-centric solutions; Bolsters resources for the U.S. Center for SafeSport while ensuring its independence from the USOPC and the NGBs; Requires relevant SafeSport training, so athletes know how to identify abuse, and so adults know how to prevent it; Strengthens and codifies reporting mandates for adults with knowledge of any allegation of child abuse of an amateur athlete; Protects individuals who report emotional, physical or sexual abuse of an athlete from retaliation within the Olympic movement; Promotes safety by requiring NGBs to enforce SafeSport sanctions and directing SafeSport to maintain a public list of all barred coaches and individuals; Bolsters USOC auditing and reporting requirements, so that Congress can better provide regular oversight; and Establishes legislative mechanisms by which Congress can dissolve the Board of the U.S. Olympic Committee and decertify NGBs. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/nh-delegation-calls-on-usda-to-investigate-low-quality-food-supplies-provided-to-nh-food-bank-for-families-in-need-amid-covid-crisis,NH Delegation Calls on USDA to Investigate Low-Quality Food Supplies Provided to NH Food Bank for Families in Need Amid COVID Crisis,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"NH Delegation Calls on USDA to Investigate Low-Quality Food Supplies Provided to NH Food Bank for Families in Need Amid COVID Crisis October 30, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) led the New Hampshire congressional delegation in a letter to Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue expressing concern about Vincent Farms a Delaware-based food distributor that was awarded the most recent contract with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to supply food to the New Hampshire Food Bank through the Farmers Families Food Box Program. The delegation called on the USDA to investigate concerns brought to them by the New Hampshire Food Bank that the products provided do not meet nutritional standards and are not suitable to serve families in need of assistance amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The delegation wrote, The intent of the Farmers to Families Food Box program is to provide fresh produce, dairy and meat products from American producers of all sizes to food banks, community and faith-based organizations and other non-profits serving Americans in need. We are alarmed to hear allegations that the food provided to the New Hampshire Food Bank in the third round of this program did not meet the standards of the high quality product provided in previous rounds. Shaheen, Hassan, Kuster and Pappas went on to explain that the distributor for the program from the previous round Costa Fruit & Produce provided high-quality products for families in need and was the distributor that the New Hampshire Food Bank advocated for in their proposal for the third round. The delegation continued, However, USDA awarded the contract for the third round of the program to a different distributor, Vincent Farms, instead of the proposal submitted by the New Hampshire Food Bank and Costa Fruit & Produce. The product subsequently provided to the New Hampshire Food Bank in round three by Vincent Farms was of enormously inferior nutritional quality The delegation underscored concerns that the USDA was paying far more under the Farmers to Families Food Box Program than the contents of the food box being provided by the current distributor have been estimated to be worth, compromising the quality of food for Granite State families. They wrote, Additionally, we understand that the USDA is paying $40 - $60 per box under the Farmers to Families Food Box Program. However, the cost per box of food provided to the New Hampshire Food Bank by the round three distributor has been estimated to equal $10 - $12. This significant discrepancy in value indicates a large potential profit opportunity for this distributor. Each tractor-trailer delivering to a food bank can carry more than 1,000 boxes of food. By this estimate, the distributor could potentially be making $30,000 - $50,000 on each tractor-trailer, while providing substandard food to the New Hampshire Food Bank for distribution to New Hampshire families. The lawmakers closed their letter with a request for USDA to immediately investigate this matter before awarding the fourth round of contracts for the Farmers to Families Box Program and to respond to a series of questions about criteria about the decision-making for these awards. Shaheen, Hassan, Kuster and Pappas closed their letter, In the midst of a global pandemic and while families are experiencing food insecurity at incredible rates, it is essential that the food provided by the U.S. government to our local food banks and other entities is reliable. Now more than ever, keeping families fed and safe should be our top priority. The letter can be read in full here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-baldwin-lead-senate-call-to-trump-urging-president-to-make-womens-inclusion-in-afghan-peace-negotiations-a-foreign-policy-priority,"Shaheen, Baldwin Lead Senate Call to Trump Urging President to Make Women’s Inclusion in Afghan Peace Negotiations a Foreign Policy Priority",2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Baldwin Lead Senate Call to Trump Urging President to Make Women's Inclusion in Afghan Peace Negotiations a Foreign Policy Priority October 30, 2020 (Washington, DC) Ahead of tomorrow's 20th anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Security Resolution (UNSCR) 1325, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) a senior member and the only woman on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee co-led a letter with U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and a group of Senators to President Donald Trump, underscoring the critical importance of ensuring women's participation in the ongoing Afghan peace negotiations. The UNSCR resolution, which was adopted on October 31, 2000, reaffirms the important role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts, peace negotiations, peacebuilding and peacekeeping, humanitarian response and post-conflict recovery. It also stresses the importance of women's full involvement in all efforts to maintain and promote peace and security. The Senators wrote, It is in recognition of this important anniversary that we write to you today, calling on you to ensure that women play an active role in the intra-Afghan peace negotiations and to make clear to all parties that the U.S. government expects the Afghan and Taliban leaders to preserve and promote the rights of women and girls during and following a negotiated peace agreementThe relationship between women, peace and security is irrefutable. Decades of data support the fact that there is a direct correlation between the rights and empowerment of women and a country's stability and ability to avoid future conflict. We know that women's participation in peace negotiations increases the likelihood of their success, their involvement in post-conflict recovery lowers the risk of relapsed conflict, and that gender inequality increases the risk of terrorism and instability. The lawmakers underscored that the message of women's inclusion in Afghan peace talk aligns with the commitments the U.S. government made when the Women, Peace and Security Act which Shaheen authored was signed into law in 2017. In closing, the Senators highlighted an open letter published last month that was signed by 26 former presidents and prime ministers, and 34 foreign ministersincluding former U.S. Secretaries of State Condoleezza Rice, Colin Powell, Madeleine Albright, Hillary Clinton and John Kerry that affirmed that women's participation in the peace negotiations are crucial in the pursuit of a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. The Senators also included a list of policy recommendations that would boost U.S. efforts to uphold the UNSCR 1325 and the Women, Peace and Security Act, as intended. They signed their letter, The lives and opportunities of half of Afghanistan's population, and the sacrifice that U.S. and allied servicemembers have made in Afghanistan, are too important to not prioritize women and girls' rights and leadership in a future Afghanistan. It is not enough to simply state that this is best left to the two parties in the intra-Afghan peace process. The United States can and should ensure that women are substantively involved in the peace process and that their rights are preserved moving forward. The letter which is also signed by U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) can be read in full here. Senator Shaheen has repeatedly pushed Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the administration making women's inclusion in Afghan peace negotiations a U.S. foreign policy priority. In a hearing last year, Shaheen slammed Pompeo on the State Department'sreticenceto support the rights of Afghan women during peace talks. In February 2019, Shaheenled a letter to Secretary Pompeo, urging the administration to prioritize Afghan women's inclusion in peace negotiations between the United States and the Taliban in Afghanistan, and to protect the United States' investment in the rights of women and girls.During a congressional delegation visit to Afghanistan last June, Shaheen met with a group of Afghan women who described how dramatically their lives had improved since the Taliban government was toppled nearly 2 decades ago. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-alongside-all-lgbtq-equality-caucus-co-chairs-introduce-resolution,Pappas Alongside All the LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus Co-Chairs Introduce Resolution Affirming the Supreme Court’s Ruling on Same-Sex Marriage,2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Tomorrow the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality CaucusCo-Chairs,Chris Pappas (NH-01), David Cicilline (RI-01), Angie Craig (MN-02), Sharice L. Davids (KS-03), Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18), Mark Pocan (WI-02),andMark Takano (CA-41)plan to introduce a resolution along with the support of 96 of their colleagues affirming the Supreme Court's rulings on same-sex marriages, following Supreme Court Justices Thomas and Alito's statement undermining the validity of the Supreme Court's previous rulings that cleared the way for marriage equality. Specially, Justices Thomas and Alito issued a statement on October 5, 2020 attacking this precedent by stating that the ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges ""enables courts and governments to brand religious adherents who believe that marriage is between one man and one woman as bigots, making their religious liberty concerns that much easier to dismiss. They continue to imply that this decision is one that could eventually be 'fixed.' The statement by Justices Thomas and Alito about marriage equality is an insult to the more than 500,000 loving same-sex couples that have finally been able to have their unions recognized under the law,said Pappas.As the balance of the Court shifts, we must fight to ensure that our country does not go backward on fundamental equality. It is essential we affirm our commitment to the rights of all our citizens, regardless of who they love. Five years ago, the Supreme Court made marriage equality the law of the land. Today, with Justice Barrett joining the bench, this progress is under threat,said Cicilline.We cannot allow our country to move backwards. I am proud to stand with my colleagues on this important issue and to continue fighting for full LGBTQ+ equality. This week, my wife Cheryl and I celebrated our 12th wedding anniversary. We had to wait most of our adult lives for the right to marry and to have our family recognized legally in this country,said Craig.It's on all of us to protect equal marriage rights and to continue fighting for justice and equality under the law for all LGBTQ people. No one should be discriminated against for who they are, who they love or how they identify. That's in line with the longstanding, deeply American principle that all people should be treated equally. The Justices' recent comments on Obergefell v. Hodges are a concerning challenge to a landmark decision that has allowed more than half a million same-sex couples to legally marry. During a time when the rights of LGBTQ Americans are increasingly under attack, it is crucial for us to stand up against this kind of rhetoric and fight to ensure everyone has the same protections under the law,said Davids. We refuse to let a right-wing Supreme Court take us backwards to a time when someone else's religious beliefs controlled what my family was allowed to do,said Pocan.Marriage equality was a massive step forward for LGBTQ equality in Americawe should be expanding those liberties not retracting them. Our laws should not be hollowed out to protect the best interest of bigots and extremists. Marriage equality must remain the law of the land. In light of recent statements made by Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas suggesting the Supreme Court revisit the issue of marriage equality, it is absolutely pertinent that my colleagues and I introduce a resolution to protect this fundamental right for all. Millions of people across our country are currently living in fear that they won't be able to legally commit to their partner due to these hateful, conservative attacks. We have to prove to them, and to the rest of the world watching, that in the United States of America, we believe in equality and we believe love always wins,said Takano. Millions of LGBTQ Americans and allies are rightly concerned that Justice Thomas' and Alito's words send a signal to the states to challenge these rulings on the ground of religious liberty now that Justice Amy Coney Barrett, who has worked with a variety of groups opposing same-sex marriage, has been sworn in. The resolution simply affirms that the Supreme Court rightfully ruled on this issue and has upheld the precedent on several occasions, that same-sex couples have both the right to marry and to enjoy the benefits and protections provided by the government to married couples. FromWindsor v. United StatestoObergefell v. HodgesandPavan v. Smith,the Justices affirmed that depriving same-sex couples of these rights is unconstitutional and not in line with American values.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-alongside-all-lgbtq-equality-caucus-co-chairs-introduce-resolution-0,Pappas Alongside All the LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus Co-Chairs Introduce Resolution Affirming the Supreme Court’s Ruling on Same-Sex Marriage,2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - Tomorrow the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality CaucusCo-Chairs,Chris Pappas (NH-01), David Cicilline (RI-01), Angie Craig (MN-02), Sharice L. Davids (KS-03), Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18), Mark Pocan (WI-02), and Mark Takano (CA-41) plan to introduce a resolution along with the support of 96 of their colleagues affirming the Supreme Court's rulings on same-sex marriages, following Supreme Court Justices Thomas and Alito's statement undermining the validity of the Supreme Court's previous rulings that cleared the way for marriage equality. Specifically, Justices Thomas and Alito issued a statement on October 5, 2020 attacking this precedent by stating that the ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges ""enables courts and governments to brand religious adherents who believe that marriage is between one man and one woman as bigots, making their religious liberty concerns that much easier to dismiss. They continue to imply that this decision is one that could eventually be 'fixed.' The statement by Justices Thomas and Alito about marriage equality is an insult to the more than 500,000 loving same-sex couples that have finally been able to have their unions recognized under the law,said Pappas.As the balance of the Court shifts, we must fight to ensure that our country does not go backward on fundamental equality. It is essential we affirm our commitment to the rights of all our citizens, regardless of who they love. Five years ago, the Supreme Court made marriage equality the law of the land. Today, with Justice Barrett joining the bench, this progress is under threat,said Cicilline. We cannot allow our country to move backwards. I am proud to stand with my colleagues on this important issue and to continue fighting for full LGBTQ+ equality. This week, my wife Cheryl and I celebrated our 12th wedding anniversary. We had to wait most of our adult lives for the right to marry and to have our family recognized legally in this country,said Craig.It's on all of us to protect equal marriage rights and to continue fighting for justice and equality under the law for all LGBTQ people. No one should be discriminated against for who they are, who they love or how they identify. That's in line with the longstanding, deeply American principle that all people should be treated equally. The Justices' recent comments on Obergefell v. Hodges are a concerning challenge to a landmark decision that has allowed more than half a million same-sex couples to legally marry. During a time when the rights of LGBTQ Americans are increasingly under attack, it is crucial for us to stand up against this kind of rhetoric and fight to ensure everyone has the same protections under the law,said Davids. We refuse to let a right-wing Supreme Court take us backwards to a time when someone else's religious beliefs controlled what my family was allowed to do,said Pocan. Marriage equality was a massive step forward for LGBTQ equality in Americawe should be expanding those liberties not retracting them. Our laws should not be hollowed out to protect the best interest of bigots and extremists. Marriage equality must remain the law of the land. In light of recent statements made by Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas suggesting the Supreme Court revisit the issue of marriage equality, it is absolutely pertinent that my colleagues and I introduce a resolution to protect this fundamental right for all. Millions of people across our country are currently living in fear that they won't be able to legally commit to their partner due to these hateful, conservative attacks. We have to prove to them, and to the rest of the world watching, that in the United States of America, we believe in equality and we believe love always wins,said Takano Millions of LGBTQ Americans and allies are rightly concerned that Justice Thomas' and Alito's words send a signal to the states to challenge these rulings on the ground of religious liberty now that Justice Amy Coney Barrett, who has worked with a variety of groups opposing same-sex marriage, has been sworn in. The resolution simply affirms that the Supreme Court rightfully ruled on this issue and has upheld the precedent on several occasions, that same-sex couples have both the right to marry and to enjoy the benefits and protections provided by the government to married couples. FromWindsor v. United StatestoObergefell v. HodgesandPavan v. Smith,the Justices affirmed that depriving same-sex couples of these rights is unconstitutional and not in line with American values. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/during-visit-to-rochester-head-start-shaheen-highlights-need-for-additional-child-care-support-for-working-families-in-covid-19-relief-legislation,"During Visit to Rochester Head Start, Shaheen Highlights Need for Additional Child Care Support for Working Families in COVID-19 Relief Legislation",2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"During Visit to Rochester Head Start, Shaheen Highlights Need for Additional Child Care Support for Working Families in COVID-19 Relief Legislation October 29, 2020 Shaheen highlights the importance of providing additional resources to child care providers during her visit to the Rochester Head Start facility. Earlier: Shaheen Delivers Remarks at New Hampshire Business Review's Operation HR Virtual Event Promoting Hiring of Granite State Veterans Shaheen discusses her efforts to support Granite State veterans during NH Business Review's Operation HR event. Shaheen's full remarks can be viewed here. Later: Shaheen Promotes Clean Energy & Energy Efficiency during Clean Energy NH's Local Energy Solutions Virtual Conference Shaheen underscores how clean energy and energy efficiency will benefit New Hampshire during Clean Energy NH's Local Energy Solutions virtual conference. Shaheen's remarks can be viewed here. (Rochester, NH) Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) visited the Rochester Head Start facility to underscore the continuing need for child care support in COVID-19 relief legislation. Child care is crucial to New Hampshire's economic recovery and to allow working families to fully return to work, but providers in the state have been severely impacted by the fallout of the COVID-19 public health and financial crisis, leading many to be at risk of permanent closure. During her visit, Shaheen hosted a group discussion with Rochester Mayor Caroline McCarley and local child care providers, including advocates from organizations like the Granite YMCA and the Strafford County Community Action Program. She heard more from participants on their experiences during the pandemic, including the challenges they and working families in the Seacoast region have faced in providing and accessing child care. She also highlighted her work in the Senate to secure additional resources for child care including her support of the Child Care is Essential Act, legislation that would create a $50 billion Child Care Stabilization Fund to stabilize the child care sector and assist providers in their efforts to safely reopen and operate. In March,Shaheen introduced legislationto assist health care workers with child and elder care so that they can continue to treat patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has had an overwhelming impact on child care providers like Strafford County CAP's Head Start program in Rochester, which working families in the Seacoast region and throughout our state are relying on to fully return to work. Without additional federal assistance, providers are at serious risk of shutting down. This would have a catastrophic impact on New Hampshire's economy, cutting thousands of jobs and leaving Granite State families to fend for themselves, said Shaheen. Congress needs to prioritize additional relief for providers in a comprehensive COVID-19 relief package, including legislation I support that would create a Child Care Stabilization Fund to support providers' efforts to safely reopen and operate. I appreciate the feedback I received today from child care providers and advocates, and will be sharing it with other Senators to secure this urgently needed assistance. Earlier, Shaheen delivered remarks at New Hampshire Business Review's Operation HR virtual event. Operation HR is a NH Business Review-led initiative designed to promote the hiring of Granite State veterans in businesses throughout New Hampshire. With veterans possessing a wide variety of critical skills and abilities acquired from their military service that can be transferred to the civilian workforce, the event aims to highlight the many reasons employers could benefit from hiring those who have served. During her remarks, Shaheen recognized veterans' service and sacrifices for our nation and highlighted her efforts to help veterans transition from life in the military to civilian life. Shaheen's remarks can be viewed here. I want to thank New Hampshire Business Review for inviting me to participate in today's session to encourage the hiring of Granite State veterans, said Shaheen. I'm forever grateful to our veterans for their service and sacrifice. They deserve the very best when they come home, and assisting with their transition to the civilian workforce must be at the top of that list. I'll keep working across the aisle on efforts that keep our sacred promise to our veterans. Later, Shaheen promoted clean energy and energy efficiency during Clean Energy NH's Local Energy Solutions virtual conference. As New Hampshire continues to recover from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, clean energy and energy efficiency projects offer the opportunity to stimulate the creation of urgently needed jobs, while investing in long-term sustainable solutions to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy costs for Granite State homeowners and businesses. Shaheen is a champion of efforts that bolster the usage of clean energy and promote energy efficiency. Shaheen hasintroduced bipartisan legislationwith Senator Rob Portman (R-OH) to save American homes and businesses billions of dollars in energy costs and dramatically reduce the United States' carbon footprint. She also recentlyintroduced new legislation theBetter Utilizing Innovative Low-Emission Development Strategies (BUILDS) Act that would create a national infrastructure initiative to fund innovative projects that promote energy efficiency while meeting significant transportation needs. Shaheen's remarks can be viewed here. As New Hampshire continues its recovery from the economic impact of COVID-19, clean energy and energy efficiency projects offer a tremendous opportunity to meet the immediate needs for today and prepare for the challenges of tomorrow, said Shaheen. By supporting clean energy and energy efficiency, we can create new, good-paying jobs, reduce energy costs for Granite State homeowners and businesses and reduce harmful carbon emissions. I appreciate Clean Energy NH's invitation to participate in their Local Energy Solutions event this afternoon and will continue to strive for a cleaner, greener future for New Hampshire and our nation. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-risch-on-georgias-upcoming-parliamentary-elections,"Shaheen, Risch on Georgia’s Upcoming Parliamentary Elections",2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Risch on Georgia's Upcoming Parliamentary Elections October 29, 2020 (Washingon, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations (SFRC) Committee, and SFRC Chairman Jim Risch (R-ID) today released the following statement ahead of Georgia's upcoming parliamentary elections: Since we traveled together to observe Georgia's 2012 parliamentary elections, we have watched democracy deepen and the economy grow. As Georgians prepare to vote in this weekend's parliamentary elections, it is important that all parties respect and abide by international standards for a free and fair electoral process, and maintain the integrity of the ballot box. The constitutional reforms made earlier this year to the electoral system were an important step forward in strengthening Georgia's democratic legitimacy. The good conduct of these upcoming elections will further consolidate those gains and demonstrate the Georgian people's continued desire to pursue Euro-Atlantic integration. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has prevented a large number of international observers from being present in Georgia during the election, the United States and other members of the international community will be watching closely. To that end, it is imperative that the Russian Federation not interfere in Georgia's elections. An independent and democratic Georgia has many international supporters and is vital to the region. We continue to support the Georgian people as friends and partners, and wish them a free, fair, and credible election. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-sarbanes-bilirakis-titus-and-woodall-re-introduce-oxi-day-resolution,"Pappas, Sarbanes, Bilirakis, Titus and Woodall Re-Introduce “Oxi Day” Resolution to Honor the Heroism of the Greek People During World War II",2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01), John Sarbanes (MD-03), and Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Dina Titus (NV-01), and Rob Woodall (GA-07) re-introduced a resolution to designate October 28 as Oxi Day to commemorate the Greeks' refusal to surrender to Axis forces in the Second World War, stymieing the march of fascism across Europe. On October 28, 1940, the Italian dictator, Benito Mussolini, delivered a 3 a.m. ultimatum to Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas, demanding that Axis forces freely enter Greece or face war. In response, the Greek Prime Minister declared Oxi! (No!) refusing to fold to the fascist ruler, marking Greece's entry into World War II. As Italian troops began to invade, Greek citizens took to the streets chanting Oxi! in honor of Prime Minister Metaxas' refusal to relent to fascism. On October 28, 1940, the Greek people demonstrated unprecedented spirit and courage, changing the trajectory of history, said Congressman Pappas. Eight decades later we continue to celebrate Greece's refusal to bow to the Axis powers and their fascist ideology. As a proud Greek-American I am honored to lead this resolution that allows us to celebrate our Greek allies and our shared democratic values. On this day 80 years ago, Greece stood up against the powers of evil by replying OXI! or NO! to Fascist subjugation. The Greek people could not idly stand by and allow the evils of Fascism to consume Europe. Greece decided to fight for democracy, liberty, and justice, or otherwise see these treasured virtuesoriginally fostered in Ancient Greeceextinguished under the darkness of Fascism, said Congressman Bilirakis. 80 years ago, the Greek people famously and courageously stood up against the forces of fascism sweeping across Europe, said Congressman Sarbanes. I'm honored to join my Hellenic Caucus colleagues as we salute the Greek people for their heroism in declaring Oxi! and resisting the Axis invasion of Greece. This inspiring moment in Greek history stands as an eternal symbol of triumph over authoritarianism and oppression. The bravery and strength demonstrated by the Greek people in the face of fascism 80 years ago serve as an inspiration to us still today, said Congressman Woodall. As our nation and freedom-loving countries around the world continue to face threats to our democracies, we can look back to the Greeks and the might they showed to the world. Recognizing Oxi Day is a reminder of the shared commitment between the United States and Greece to freedom and democracy in the face of fascist global threats. On this day and every day, let us continue to be brave like Prime Minister Metaxas and stand up to forces that threaten the values we hold so dear, said Congresswoman Titus.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-discusses-impact-of-covid-19-pandemic-on-north-country-tourism-industry-during-visit-to-white-mountains-visitor-center,Shaheen Discusses Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on North Country Tourism Industry during Visit to White Mountains Visitor Center,2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Discusses Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on North Country Tourism Industry during Visit to White Mountains Visitor Center October 28, 2020 Shaheen speaks with North Country tourism industry leaders during her discussion at the White Mountains Visitor Center today. Earlier in Berlin: Shaheen Underscores Need for Additional COVID-19 Response Resources for Northern NH Nursing Homes during Visit to Coos County Nursing Home Shaheen speaks to Coos County Nursing Home staff during her visit to the facility this afternoon. (North Woodstock, NH) Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) visited the White Mountains Visitor Center to discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the North Country's tourism industry. As the state's second-largest industry, tourism is critical to New Hampshire's economy, supporting tens of thousands of jobs and producing millions of dollars in revenue for local communities and the state. However, the sector has been hit especially hard by the economic crisis spurred by the pandemic, with many of the state's most cherished and well-known attractions suffering devastating financial losses. During her visit, Shaheen was joined by tourism industry leaders from the area, including representatives from the White Mountains Attractions Association, Hobo Railroad, Santa's Village and the Mount Washington Cog Railway. She highlighted the need to provide additional relief to the tourism industry in the North Country and throughout the state. Shaheen has called for the passage of theHEROES Small Business Lifeline Act,legislation she introduced that would allow many businesses and nonprofits within the industry to access a second round ofPaycheck Protection Program (PPP)loans. ThePPPhas been a lifeline for businesses and nonprofits in New Hampshire, with over $2.5 billion in assistance disbursed to more than 25,000 businesses across the state. Tourism is the lifeblood of New Hampshire's economy, with thousands of businesses in the North Country and throughout our state relying on the millions of tourists who visit each year to see firsthand our beautiful lands, enjoy our cherished attractions and experience Granite State hospitality. However, as was made clear to me this afternoon, Granite State businesses in the tourism industry are hurting and need help as soon as possible if they are to keep their doors open in the coming year, said Shaheen. It's shameful that Mitch McConnell has sent the Senate home without voting on a bipartisan COVID-19 relief bill that includes help for our small businesses and addresses the priorities of Granite Staters. I'm committed to doing everything in my power to push the Senate to put aside partisanship and finally deliver the comprehensive COVID-19 relief Americans need and deserve. Earlier, Shaheen visited Coos County Nursing Home in Berlin to discuss the continuing effects of COVID-19 on northern New Hampshire nursing homes and highlight the need to provide additional resources to providers in COVID-19 relief legislation. In New Hampshire, the pandemic has had a severe and disproportionate impact on nursing homes, withmore than 80% of all COVID-related deathsin the state occurring among residents of these facilities. Additional federal support is needed to ensure nursing homes in the North Country and throughout the state are able to hire and train staff and purchase PPE and COVID-19 testing that will help protect the health and well-being of residents and caregivers. During her visit, Shaheen heard more from the facility's leadership and staff, who iterated their experiences working during the pandemic. Shaheen also thanked them for their efforts on the front lines of the crisis. Shaheen has fought to provideresources and supportfor Granite State nursing homes during the pandemic. Last month, she questioned top Trump administration officials on theadministration's failure to fully distribute relief funds meant to help COVID-19 mitigation efforts at long-term care facilities. I want to thank the leadership and staff of Coos County Nursing Home for their tremendous work during such a difficult time to protect and care for their patients, at great personal risk to themselves and their loved ones. Granite State nursing homes throughout New Hampshire have been especially vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic, with facilities suffering from outbreaks that have led to more than eighty percent of all COVID-related deaths in the state, said Shaheen. The federal government has a responsibility to provide additional support to help facilities like Coos Country Nursing Home control the spread of the disease and protect the lives of residents and caretakers. Securing these resources for New Hampshire will continue to be a top priority for me in the Senate. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/following-calls-from-nh-delegation-usps-confirms-that-it-will-process-new-hampshire-election-mail-locally-in-effort-to-ensure-timely-delivery-of-ballots,"Following Calls from NH Delegation, USPS Confirms that it Will Process New Hampshire Election Mail Locally in Effort to Ensure Timely Delivery of Ballots",2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Following Calls from NH Delegation, USPS Confirms that it Will Process New Hampshire Election Mail Locally in Effort to Ensure Timely Delivery of Ballots October 27, 2020 WASHINGTON Following calls led by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01), the United States Postal Service's (USPS) Northern New England District confirmed that New Hampshire ballots that are received locally will now be delivered directly to the local clerk's office in order to ensure the timely delivery of ballots. Prior to this announcement, the Postal Service required that ballots returned by voters in New Hampshire be routed to processing facilities in Manchester, NH or White River Junction, VT, which can unnecessarily delay the delivery of ballots. With one week before Election Day, we must ensure that every single ballot is counted in a timely fashion, and we are grateful that the Postal Service heeded our calls to process ballots locally from now until November 3, said the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation in a joint statement, While this is an important step, all voters should still be sure to mail their absentee ballots or drop them off at their local clerk's office as quickly as possible to help ensure that that all ballots are received on time. The Postal Service's announcement comes after the Delegation sent a letter to Postmaster General Louis DeJoy last week calling on him to allow election mail to be processed locally in the days leading up to the election rather than being routed to a processing center. The Postal Service also confirmed it will make extra efforts to check the mailboxes of all Granite Staters to ensure that every ballot is received by the Postal Service and delivered to the local clerk's office. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-its-absolutely-shameful-that-mitch-mcconnell-has-sent-the-senate-home-without-voting-on-a-bipartisan-covid-19-relief-bill,"Shaheen: ""It's Absolutely Shameful that Mitch McConnell has Sent the Senate Home without Voting on a Bipartisan COVID-19 Relief Bill”",2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen: ""It's Absolutely Shameful that Mitch McConnell has Sent the Senate Home without Voting on a Bipartisan COVID-19 Relief Bill October 27, 2020 (Washington, DC)U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement after the Senate held its final vote prior to the November 3rd election: It's absolutely shameful that Mitch McConnell has sent the Senate home without voting on a bipartisan COVID-19 relief bill, said Shaheen. Two comprehensive bills passed by the House have been stonewalled by the Republican majority and bipartisan negotiations have been blocked for seven months. All the while, New Hampshire families are struggling to pay the bills, small businesses have gone under, and hospitals are in dire financial straits as they treat a new surge in COVID-19 patients. There is still no comprehensive national plan for testing, contact tracing and PPE delivery. Further, municipalities across our State are weighing whether to lay off fire fighters, police officers, school teachers and other essential services because of budget deficits caused by the virus. The Senate could have demonstrated that, once again, it can put partisanship aside and help Americans in need get through this pandemic. The political jockeying has got to end the American people are demanding results. During negotiations of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, Shaheen helped deliver $1.25 billion to New Hampshire to assist the State during COVID-19. Senator Shaheenhelped negotiatethe small business relief programs that were established in theCARES Actthat was signed into law in March. Over $2.5 billion in assistance has been disbursed to more than 25,000 businesses across New Hampshire through the CARES Act's Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). However, many small businesses continue to struggle. Shaheen previously introduced thePrioritized Paycheck Protection Program (P4) Act,legislation that would allow these small businesses to access a second round of PPP loans. Just last week, Shaheen introduce theHEROES Small Business Lifeline Acta comprehensive package of measures that would provide over $370 billion of support to the hardest-hit and most vulnerable small businesses, including minority-owned businesses and very small businesses that have been left behind in this pandemic, as well as industries, such as restaurants and live venues. The bill is nearly identical to the small business provisions of HEROES 2.0, which passed the House of Representatives on October 1. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/icymi-washington-post-editorial-backs-shaheen-effort-to-get-access-to-havana-syndrome-report-and-applauds-legislative-effort-to-secure-benefits,"ICYMI: Washington Post Editorial Backs Shaheen Effort to Get Access to ""Havana Syndrome"" Report & Applauds Legislative Effort to Secure Benefits",2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"ICYMI: Washington Post Editorial Backs Shaheen Effort to Get Access to ""Havana Syndrome"" Report & Applauds Legislative Effort to Secure Benefits October 26, 2020 This morning, the Washington Post Editorial Board voiced its support for Senator Jeanne Shaheen's (D-NH) efforts to shed light on mysterious attacks on American public servants serving abroad and, potentially, here at home: The cause of the attacks is unknown, but attention has focused on some sort of directed energy device, such as a microwave. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), who championedlegislationpassed by Congress to provide care, leave and benefits to State Department officials and family members hit in Cuba and China, is properly seeking toexpandit to include all U.S. government officials affected. Meanwhile, the senator and other leading members of the Senate Foreign Relations and Appropriations committees have asked the National Academy of Sciences for a report commissioned by the State Department and completed some months ago into the attacks. The report, still under review at State, was prepared by Stanford University microbiologist David Relman, who told GQ he is frustrated that it hasn't been made public. This mystery could and should be less mysterious. Congress must have the Relman report and should make it public. That is the first of many steps still needed to identify the perpetrators, protect Americans abroad and respond properly. Shaheen recently added language to the pending National Defense Authorization bill, which expands long-term, emergency care benefitsshe secured in government funding legislation signed into law last yeartoallU.S. Government employees and their dependents who were injured internationally. Last year'slegislation and the benefits it provides currently, does not apply to non-State Department employees. The final defense bill is still being negotiated between the Senate and the House of Representatives. Shaheen's measure to amend the law followsher bipartisan letterin May, calling on the administration to interpret the law as intended by Congress. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-urge-va-to-follow-through-on-2018-promises-to-end-veteran-suicide-epidemic,"Shaheen, Hassan Urge VA to Follow Through on 2018 Promises to End Veteran Suicide Epidemic",2020-10-25,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan Urge VA to Follow Through on 2018 Promises to End Veteran Suicide Epidemic Senators raise alarm over Administration's inability to fully implement provisions under President Trump's Executive Order to expand critical mental health resources to nation's heroes October 25, 2020 (Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) joined a group of Senators to call on Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Robert Wilkie to follow through on authorities under President Donald Trump's Executive Order (EO) 13822 to increase veterans' access to mental health care. The Senators' letter, which was led by U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D-MT), follows the recent signing of the landmark Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act, which both Shaheen and Hassan co-sponsored. In their letter, the Senators also urged the administration to aggressively implement critical provisions and new authorities under the law to provide more veterans with the mental health resources they need and earned. More than 6,000 veterans die by suicide annually, and each loss of life is immeasurable, the Senators wrote. Congress has done its part by providing consistent and robust resources for VA's mental health budget and developing and passing comprehensive veterans' mental health care legislation, most recently the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act. Hopefully the issuance of EO 13822 was more than a hollow press opportunity by the Administration, and we can expect it to do right by our nation's military and veterans by fully implementing the EO and all laws passed by Congress focused on mental health and suicide prevention. In parallel with Congress' effort to end the veteran suicide epidemic, President Donald Trump signed EO 13822 on January 9, 2018, promising to make significant changes to improve the transition experience and connect service members to mental health resources. Howeveralmost three years after the EO was signedVA failed to complete critical authorities under this order. The Senators continued, At the EO signing, Secretary Shulkin stated this expanded mental health care benefit would be available by March 9, 2018. However, almost three years later, the Department has not increased access to mental health care, leaving up to 60 percent of newly transitioned service members without access to life-saving care. Also troubling, the Joint Action Plan for implementing EO 13822 contains no references or commitments to providing transitioning service members with this one year of mental health care. When can veterans expect to receive access to the essential mental health care promised to them by the Trump Administration? Senators Shaheen and Hassan have prioritized policies to help prevent veteran suicide and to improve veterans' access to mental health care in New Hampshire and across the country. Earlier this week, Shaheen and Hassan-cosponsored legislation the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act was signed into law. The Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act is a comprehensive and aggressive approach to connect more veterans with mental health care. The bill will bolster the VA's mental health workforce and increase rural or hard-to-reach veterans' access to VA care, while making sure veterans have access to alternative and local treatment options. A copy of the Senators' letter can be found HERE. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-holds-made-america-manufacturing-discussion-rochester,Pappas Holds ‘Made in America’ Manufacturing Discussion in Rochester,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"ROCHESTER, NH-Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01)convened a Made in America' discussion with leaders from New Hampshire-based manufacturing companies at Lydall Performance Materials in Rochester. Pappas was joined by leadership from Lydall, Velcro USA, and Granite State Manufacturing who toured the construction site of Lydall's expanded facility and then held a conversation about domestic manufacturing and its importance to New Hampshire's economy. Across New Hampshire, manufacturers have seen significant challenges and new opportunities as a result of the pandemic,""said Congressman Pappas.Many companies are innovating and rising to meet this moment through the production of materials and equipment needed in the fight against COVID-19. As our economy rebounds, we must develop our workforce and make smart investments that will support American manufacturing. I look forward to continuing to support smart policies thatwill help New Hampshire's economy grow and thrive. Congressman Pappas's visit to Lydall showcases how important it is that critical products, like face masks, continue to be made in America, for America,"" saidGeoff Crosby, Vice President of Strategic Marketing at Lydall. ""The health and safety of the American people depend on a robust domestic supply chain, and Lydall is very proud to play a key role in this effort. We greatly appreciate the outstanding support each of our New Hampshire public officials has given us. It was great to spend the day with other New Hampshire manufacturers who are expanding in 2020,"" said Doug Thomson, VP of Sales, Granite State Manufacturing. ""We are all hiring skilled trades staff and appreciate the strong support Congressman Pappas brings to growing U.S. manufacturing. At the event, Pappas discussed the Made in America' initiatives that he has introduced or supported in Congress, includingH.R. 7841, the American PPE Supply Chain Integrity Act, which requires the federal government to purchase medical supplies and personal protective equipment from the United States. Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Veterans Affairs to purchase specified medical supplies (including disinfecting wipes and natural fiber products) and personal protective equipment (including surgical masks, face shields, and foot coverings) from products that are 100% grown, reprocessed, reused, or produced in the United States. Pappas also co-sponsoredH.R. 2083, the Homeland Procurement Reform Act(HOPR Act), which directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to ensure that procurement of certain items, such as body armor and other protective gear, meets specified requirements, including that a fraction of procurement funds be used for items manufactured in part or provided by U.S. small businesses. Additionally, as part of pandemic relief initiatives in the House,Pappas introduced and worked to passan amendment that encouraged the Department of Commerce to support manufacturing companies whose supply chains have been disrupted by COVID-19 through the Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEP) program. In June, Congressman Pappas announced$400,000 awarded to ARMI in Manchesterto create and develop a roadmap to bolster America's domestic supply chain for vaccines and PPE. And in February, Pappas announced$51 million in federal funds awarded to ARMIto develop portable technology to engineer and produce medications and vaccines. In December 2019, Pappas supported thebipartisan USMCA trade dealwhich supports local businesses and workers and safeguards American jobs.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/10/23/2020/shaheen-urges-granite-staters-to-participate-in-drug-take-back-day,Shaheen Urges Granite Staters to Participate in Drug Take Back Day,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Urges Granite Staters to Participate in Drug Take Back Day October 23, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement urging Granite Staters to participate in Drug Take Back Day, a national event hosted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). There are drop off locations across New Hampshire for Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 24th, where the public can drop off old and unused prescription drugs to be safely disposed of. Individuals can find the nearest drop off location on theDEA's website. Drug Take Back Day is an important reminder that all Granite Staters can play a role in fighting the substance use disorder epidemic,said Shaheen. By cleaning out cabinets of old and unused prescription drugs and safely disposing of them, you're helping to protect your family, friends and community. I urge Granite Staters to find their drop-off location and get all unused and expired medications out of their homes. Drug Take Back Day is also an important reminder that drop off stations are available throughout the year in New Hampshire and I encourage everyone to make themselves aware of their nearest location. Together, we can prevent prescription drugs from falling into the wrong hands, protect those around us and make our communities safer and healthier. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-to-attorney-general-william-barr-stop-efforts-to-gut-the-affordable-care-act-in-court,"Shaheen, Hassan to Attorney General William Barr: Stop Efforts to Gut the Affordable Care Act in Court",2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan to Attorney General William Barr: Stop Efforts to Gut the Affordable Care Act in Court October 23, 2020 As Supreme Court ACA Hearing Approaches and Republicans Rush Supreme Court Nomination Process, Democratic Lawmakers Highlight How an ACA Repeal Can Impact Health Coverage for Americans Who Contract COVID-19. ""It is unconscionable for the Department of Justice to pursue this lawsuit in the midst of this unprecedented public health crisis, and we urge you to rescind your support of these efforts immediately."" (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), along with 18 Senators, sent a letter to Attorney General William Barr, urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) to rescind its support of the Supreme Court lawsuit that seeks to invalidate the Affordable Care Act (ACA). In the letter, the Senators highlight how health insurance protections for millions of Americans are at stake in light of the current Supreme Court nomination fight and the ways in which health insurers could discriminate against millions more people who contract COVID-19 if the pre-existing protections in the ACA are gutted. ""We urge the Department of Justice to immediately rescind its support of the lawsuit in California v. Texas asking the Supreme Court to declare the ACA unconstitutional and invalidate the law in its entirety,"" wrote the Senators. ""Passed in 2010, the ACA dramatically expanded the number of Americans with health insurance. Destroying this progress and ripping away critical protections is cruel on its face. Looking to do so in the midst of a nearly unprecedented public health emergencya COVID-19 pandemic that has claimed over 220,000 American lives and infected over 8 million peopleis especially unconscionable."" The Supreme Court will hear arguments in California v. Texas on November 10, 2020. Among critical provisions, the ACA has made it illegal for insurance companies to deny insurance coverage for the 133 million Americans with pre-existing conditions. Before the ACA became law, insurers could exclude coverage of care associated with pre-existing conditions; charge higher health premiums based on a person's health status or gender; limit certain benefits like mental health treatment, prescription drugs, or maternity care associated with pre-existing conditions; and impose lifetime or annual caps on benefits. Health experts warn that, without the ACA, health insurers could classify COVID-19 as a pre-existing condition and deny COVID-19 survivors health insurance adding millions more people to the previously existing 133 million Americans with pre-existing conditions. Despite the essential protections for Americans under the ACA and the growing number of Americans contracting COVID-19, the Department of Justice is currently in court seeking to invalidate the ACA while President Trump is working to fill the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's Supreme Court seat with his nominee, Judge Amy Coney Barrett, in time for the November 10 arguments. Barrett's nomination is a key component of the president's self-stated goal of ""terminating"" the ACA. Senator Shaheen previouslyled all 47 Senate Democrats on a Senate resolutionthat would call on the DOJ to reverse its decision to argue in favor of U.S. District Court Judge Reed O'Connor's ruling that would strike down the health care law. The letter, which was led by Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), was also signed by Ed Markey (D-MA), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Gary Peters (D-MI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tina Smith (D-MN), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and Chris Murphy (D-CT). The letter can be read in full here. Earlier this week, Shaheen and a group of Senators wrote to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Department of the Treasury requesting an analysis of how the repeal of the ACA would affect health care coverage in the United States, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-highlights-new-federal-grant-to-establish-family-treatment-drug-court-pilot-program-in-sullivan-county,Shaheen Highlights New Federal Grant to Establish Family Treatment Drug Court Pilot Program in Sullivan County,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Highlights New Federal Grant to Establish Family Treatment Drug Court Pilot Program in Sullivan County October 23, 2020 **On Friday, Shaheen led the NH Congressional delegation in announcing this funding for the Family Treatment Court pilot project, which will enhance services to Sullivan County families experiencing abuse and neglect and those impacted by substance use disorder and/or mental illness** NH 5th Circuit Court Judge John Yazinski: Our families don't have consistency in their treatment because service providers come and go. We're going to be addressing those issues through this grant The better the parent does in treatment, the better their commitment is to healing. We will be able to have that wrap around programming we haven't had. Senator Shaheen speaks about the significance of the Family Treatment Court pilot project in Sullivan County. A video recording of the virtual roundtable can be heard here. Later: Shaheen Calls for Additional Resources for Northern NH Health Care Providers during Virtual Briefing with Androscoggin Valley Hospital Audio of Senator Shaheen's briefing with Androscoggin Valley Hospital can be heard here. (Washington, DC) This morning, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Department of Justice (DOJ), hosted a virtual roundtable discussion on the $1.75 million federal grant awarded through DOJ to the New Hampshire Judicial Branch to establish a new family treatment court program in Sullivan County. The event follows Shaheen and the New Hampshire Congressional delegation's announcement of this funding, which will fund a Family Treatment Court (FTC) pilot project in Sullivan County to help enhance access to services for children and families experiencing abuse and neglect, and those impacted by substance use disorder (SUD) and/or mental illness. This will be the state's first FTC and serve as a pilot program for potential additional FTCs in other counties throughout the state. Senator Shaheen has encouraged DOJ to expand this program in recent years. During the event, Shaheen was joined by Claremont Mayor Charlene Lovett, mental health providers, local stakeholders involved in developing the FTC pilot program and members of the New Hampshire Judicial Branch, who highlighted the positive impact the new program will have on Sullivan County families. Judge John Yazinski of the state's 5th Circuit Court in Claremont underscored the widespread prevalence of substance use disorder in the abuse and neglect cases he oversees and emphasized how the FTC will allow more families impacted by substance abuse and mental illness to get connected with the help they need. The substance use disorder epidemic has taken a tremendous toll on New Hampshire, with no community in our state untouched by its devastating effects. Substance misuse isn't just an individual problem it impacts entire families, said Shaheen. By increasing early, effective interventions and expanding access to critical services that parents and their children need to heal from substance misuse and mental illness, the Family Treatment Court program will provide second chances for Sullivan County families. This FTC's outcomes will shape more response options in other regions throughout the state, which is especially crucial now as the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbates the substance use disorder crisis. I want to thank today's participants for their tremendous work on the front lines of this crisis and for their feedback this morning. I'll continue to fight for more funding opportunities to help Granite Staters who are struggling, and for their families who are fighting by their sides. Later, Shaheen hosted a virtual briefing with Androscoggin Valley Hospital in Berlin. Androscoggin Valley Hospital is a major health care provider in New Hampshire's North Country. However, the pandemic has had a significant impact on the facility and other providers in the region, leading to health and financial concerns as they continue to grapple with COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. Additional federal support is needed to ensure health care providers are able to maintain operations and serve their communities during this public health emergency. During the event, Shaheen heard more from facility staff on the impact of COVID-19 on the hospital and other northern New Hampshire health care providers, and highlighted the urgent need to provide additional resources to providers in COVID-19 relief legislation. Today's briefing highlighted the critical role that rural health care providers like Androscoggin Valley Hospital have played on the front lines of this pandemic, providing lifesaving medical care and COVID-19 testing to the people of Berlin and North Country communities. However, as I heard from facility leadership this morning, our rural providers continue to face significant health and financial challenges as a result of this crisis that threaten their ability to keep their doors open and deliver vital medical services to New Hampshire families. They need relief and they need it now, said Shaheen. I'm committed to fighting for COVID-19 relief legislation that meets the urgent need of all Granite State health care providers and helps them serve their communities and save lives. Throughout the pandemic, Shaheen has repeatedly fought to providemore resources and fundingto New Hampshire health care providers. Following calls from Shaheen, the legislation signed into law last month to keep the government funded through December 11th included a key provisionto significantly modify the recoupment period on loans to health care providers under the Medicare Accelerated and Advance Payments (AAP) program and to lower the interest rates on the loans. To date, New Hampshireproviders have received $689 million in upfront paymentsthrough this program to mitigate the economic shortfall caused by the pandemic. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/icymi_on-the-senate-floor-shaheen-calls-for-senate-republicans-to-prioritize-bipartisan-negotiations-on-covid-relief-over-partisan-politics,ICYMI – On the Senate Floor: Shaheen Calls for Senate Republicans to Prioritize Bipartisan Negotiations on COVID Relief Over Partisan Politics,2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"ICYMI On the Senate Floor: Shaheen Calls for Senate Republicans to Prioritize Bipartisan Negotiations on COVID Relief Over Partisan Politics October 22, 2020 Shaheen speaks on the Senate floor highlighting the urgent need to pass COVID-19 relief legislation instead of rushing a partisan Supreme Court nomination process. (Washington, DC) Yesterday on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) called on Republican Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Republicans to prioritize a comprehensive COVID-19 relief package to help struggling Granite Staters and Americans, instead of rushing a partisan Supreme Court nomination process. Senator Shaheen underscored the urgent need to respond to the ongoing public health and economic crisis that is bearing down on New Hampshire families and Americans throughout the nation. In her remarks, Shaheen highlighted the Senate's bipartisan efforts in March that led to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, of which Shaheen helped negotiate the small business provisions, including the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. On the Senate floor, Shaheen explained the severe economic strains facing New Hampshire families and millions more throughout the country who cannot afford to wait until after the election for another deal, as President Trump announced when he originally ended negotiations with Congress earlier this month. Shaheen said, I'm optimistic that we can come to bipartisan agreement, but we can't wait until after the election. Americans need help putting food on the table and paying the bills today. Too many can't afford an arbitrary timeline for delivering assistance. We need to set aside our differences and end the partisan jockeying and do what's right for the nation. That is what our constituents sent us here to do. We did it before, and we can do it again. Senator Shaheen also underscored how important it is to vote on a bill that responds to the full scope of assistance needed for communities to survive this crisis. Highlighting the dire situation facing New Hampshire health care providers and hospitals, Shaheen said, hospitals like the Lakes Region General Healthcare in New Hampshire just filed bankruptcy this week and hospitals across New Hampshire are projecting hundreds of millions of dollars in losses this year due to the cancellation of elective procedures and non-emergency visits... Shaheen explained that the recent partisan COVID-19 response bill written by Senate Republicans did not include the resources that communities on the frontlines need, and specifically failed to provide any grants for health care providers, struggling families or aid to state and local governments facing severe budgetary shortfalls. Shaheen's remarks can beviewed in full here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-urges-devos-to-help-82-million-federal-student-loan-borrowers-currently-unable-to-access-relief,Shaheen Urges DeVos to Help 8.2 Million Federal Student Loan Borrowers Currently Unable to Access Relief,2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Urges DeVos to Help 8.2 Million Federal Student Loan Borrowers Currently Unable to Access Relief October 22, 2020 **8.2 million federal student loan borrowers currently cannot access critical relief made available by the CARES Act, including a freeze on all payments, interest, and collections** **In a letter, Shaheen and 33 Senators urge DeVos to use her existing authority to make sure these struggling borrowers don't fall through the cracks** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and a group of 33 Senators sent a letter urging Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos to ensure all struggling federal student borrowers can gain access to crucial federal relief. Since March, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES)Acthas provided forbearance, waived interest, and halted collections for borrowers whose student loans were directly held by the U.S. Department of Education. But, according to new information from the Department, 8.2 million federal student loan borrowers currently cannot take advantage of this relief, because some or all of their loans do not qualify. Of those borrowers, 4.4 million people are not receiving any relief, and 3.8 million people have a mix of loans that qualify and those that do not. To ensure that these borrowers don't continue to face unnecessary financial struggles and confusion, in their letter, the Senators urged Secretary DeVos to take immediate action to help them qualify for much-needed relief. The more than eight million student loan borrowers falling into donut holes of critical relief have missed out on needed benefits and suffered unnecessary complexity and confusion for more than six months, wrote the Senators. It is essential that the Department immediately begin the targeted outreach and take the actions we are requesting. In their letter, the Senators pressed Secretary DeVos to immediately reach out to borrowers currently missing out on relief and help them consolidate their loans into qualifying loans. They also urged Secretary DeVos to use her administrative authority to improve the consolidation process for borrowers by waiving restrictions and penalties during the national emergency. U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) led the letter, which was also signed by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Bob Casey (D-PA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (D-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Edward Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (D-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Tina Smith (D-MN), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Tom Udall (D-NM), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Ron Wyden (D-OR). The full letter can be read HERE. Senator Shaheen has fought for debt relief for students impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In August, Shaheen urged Senate leadership to include long-term assistance for millions of Americans with student loansin a COVID-19 relief package.Shaheen introduced theBank on Students Coronavirus Emergency Loan Refinancing Actwith Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), which would allow student loan borrowers to refinance their student loan debt down to the historically low federal Stafford Student Loan rates.Their bill is based onlegislation she introduced last year with a group of lawmakersto allow undergraduate borrowers repaying public or private loans to refinance those loans at lower interest rates, reducing monthly payments and helping borrowers repay loans sooner. In March,Shaheen sent a letterto Congressional negotiators with Senator Warren, as well as Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Dick Durbin (D-IL), urging negotiators to cancel student loan payments for the duration of the emergency and calling for $10,000 in debt forgiveness. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-warner-and-klobuchar-introduce-legislation-to-help-reduce-disability-claims-backlog_veteran-homelessness-through-veterans-legal-clinics,"Shaheen, Warner & Klobuchar Introduce Legislation to Help Reduce Disability Claims Backlog & Veteran Homelessness through Veterans Legal Clinics",2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Warner & Klobuchar Introduce Legislation to Help Reduce Disability Claims Backlog & Veteran Homelessness through Veterans Legal Clinics October 22, 2020 **Services offered by legal clinics like expedited claims assistance and legal counsel offer veterans an opportunity to address challenges before they deteriorate** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Mark Warner (D-VA) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) introduced legislation to increase cooperation between the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and veterans legal clinics. The Veterans Legal Support Act of 2020 would allow the VA to provide funding to law school legal clinics that provide pro bono legal services to veterans. Some law schools and their student volunteers are making significant progress reducing disability claims backlogs and veterans homelessness in communities across the country.Under attorney supervision, students provide a range ofpro bonolegal services, including assistance with disability claims, foreclosures, bankruptcies, divorce, child custody and some minor criminal cases. By assisting veterans with complicated benefits claims, legal clinics are turning the VA's most time consuming cases into organized applications that are significantly easier to process. In addition, preventative services like expedited claims assistance and legal counsel offer veterans an opportunity to address challenges before they deteriorate, often resulting in significant long-term savings to the government. Too many veterans are stuck in the VA's claims backlog, which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and hindered their access to the benefits and services they've earned. We have an obligation to use every tool available to assist the brave men and women who've served and sacrificed for our nation, which is precisely what our bill would help do, said Senator Shaheen. Some of our nation's law schools are greatly reducing processing times for challenging VA benefits claims and expanding access to legal services and I commend these students and faculty for their outstanding efforts. Our legislation would authorize the VA to work more closely with these programs and help other schools establish their own courses, ramping up efforts to cut down the VA backlog and expediting help for veterans seeking assistance. Leader McConnell should hold a vote on this common-sense legislation as soon as possible so together Congress can take a meaningful step forward to improve services for our veterans and their families. Veterans legal clinics do the crucial work of providing quality and essential legal services to vulnerable vets who otherwise may not be able to afford it. These clinics also provide important practical training for law students as they help veterans receive benefits that they frequently cannot access, said Senator Warner. Given the enormous sacrifices that these brave individuals have made for our nation, we owe it to them to explore innovative solutions that allow them to get the assistance they need and the benefits they've earned in a more timely manner. That's why I'm proud to introduce the Veterans Legal Support Act of 2020 a bill to enable the VA to provide funding to legal clinics dedicated to serving our nation's veterans. When our servicemembers made a commitment to defend our nation, our country also made a commitment to make sure they have the resources and support they deserve when they come home, said Senator Klobuchar. While we can never repay the debt we owe to our troops and veterans who have risked their lives for this country, this legislation will help ensure our veterans have access to the basic legal assistance they may need to get the benefits they've earned. The text of the bill can be read here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-cardin-and-schumer-lead-senate-covid-19-relief-bill-to-support-small-businesses,"Shaheen, Cardin & Schumer Lead Senate COVID-19 Relief Bill to Support Small Businesses",2020-10-21,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Cardin & Schumer Lead Senate COVID-19 Relief Bill to Support Small Businesses October 21, 2020 **Legislation Nearly Identical to Small Business Provisions in HEROES 2.0 Bill Passed by House on October 1** **Senator ShaheenHelped Negotiatethe Small Business Relief Programs Established in the CARES Act** (Washington, D.C.)U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a senior member of the Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship, worked with the Committee's Ranking Member Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) to introduce the HEROES Small Business Lifeline Acta comprehensive package of measures that would provide over $370 billion of support to the hardest-hit and most vulnerable small businesses, including minority-owned businesses and very small businesses that have been left behind in this pandemic, as well as industries, such as restaurants and live venues. The bill is nearly identical to the small business provisions of HEROES 2.0, which passed the House of Representatives on October 1. The bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Chris Coons (D-DE), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Patty Murray (D-WA), Angus King (I-ME), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Tom Udall (D-NM), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Gary Peters (D-MI) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA). The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program have been lifelines that have kept small businesses across the country from going under but many of these businesses are still struggling and need further help, said Shaheen. Revenues are still at unsustainable lows and with infection rates increasing in many communities, for many businesses a second PPP loan or a new EIDL grant can't come soon enough. This legislation prioritizes smaller businesses, particularly those in hardest-hit industries, and puts in place protections to make sure this money goes to businesses that are truly hurting, not well-connected corporations. Every effort must be made to make sure federal relief reaches small businesses that need help the most and this legislation would be a big step toward that goal. The HEROES Small Business Lifeline Act would: Extend and improve the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to better serve small businesses. HEROES 2.0 extends PPP through March 2021; provides a second PPP for the hardest-hit small businesses and nonprofits; expands eligibility to ensure that all nonprofits, regardless of size and type, critical access hospitals, and local news media can participate; simplifies the forgiveness process; repeals the requirement of deducting an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) advance from the PPP forgiveness amount; and removes limitations that unfairly restrict small businesses owned by formerly incarcerated individuals from securing a PPP loan. Extend and expand the Debt Relief program. HEROES 2.0 extends payments of principal, interest, and fees on all preexisting and new Small Business Administration (SBA) 7(a), 504 and microloans for up to a year, with more relief targeted to existing borrowers in underserved markets and the hardest-hit sectors. This debt relief program is also expanded to include SBA's physical and EIDL disaster loans. Support the smallest, most vulnerable businesses. HEROES 2.0 includes a new $40 billion Lifeline Grant program, of which half is set aside for undeserved businesses, that provides grants of up to $50,000 to vulnerable small businesses that have suffered a significant economic loss and creates a new $15 billion grant program for state and local governments to provide funds to vulnerable small businesses in their communities. Deliver targeted assistance to small businesses in struggling industries. HEROES 2.0 includes the Save our Stages (SOS) Act and the RESTAURANTS Act, which provide dedicated assistance for industries that rely on large gatherings, including restaurants, concert venues, and theaters. Invest in underserved communities. HEROES 2.0 invests in the mission- and community-based lenders that have a demonstrated history of getting capital to minorities, women, and other underserved communities. Specifically, it includes a dedicated $15 billion PPP set-aside for Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs), and other mission lenders, $1 billion in support for CDFIs, and $13 billion for a new Neighborhood Capital Investment Program to support CDFIs and MDIs, among other key policies to support the work of these lenders in underserved communities. Improve existing small business initiatives. HEROES 2.0 builds on SBA's core programs, including 7(a), Community Advantage, 504, and the Microloan program, by making them more affordable and useful to small businesses, and provides $1 billion for investment capital to underserved businesses. It also strengthens the accountability and transparency of SBA's EIDL program and makes other commonsense improvements like removing the Trump Administration's arbitrary $150,000 cap on EIDL loans. Help minority-owned businesses respond to COVID-19. HEROES 2.0 provides emergency grants to minority business enterprises through the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA). The legislation also formally and permanently establishes MBDA and gives it the tools to carry out its mission to help minority entrepreneurs start and grow businesses. Senator Shaheenhelped negotiatethe small business relief programs that were established in theCoronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Actthat was signed into law in March. Over $2.5 billion in assistance has been disbursed to more than 24,000 businesses across New Hampshire through the CARES Act's Paycheck Protection Program. However, many small businesses continue to struggle. Shaheen previously introduced the Prioritized Paycheck Protection Program (P4) Act,legislation that would allow these small businesses to access a second round of PPP loans. Shaheen also recently introduced three additional pieces of legislation to support small businesses: theSmall Business Debt Relief Extension Act, which would extend debt relief for SBA-backed loans throughat leastFebruary 2021for all borrowers and further for those particularly hard-hit by the pandemic; theSmall Business Broadband and Emerging Information Technology Enhancement Act, which would improve programs operated by the SBA to address problems associated with a lack of broadband internet and other emerging information technology resources, and better assist small businesses in accessing and successfully adopting these tools; and theAmerica Labor, Economic competitiveness, Alliances, Democracy and Security (America LEADS) Act,which is Senate Democrats' proposal for a new U.S.-China policy.The most comprehensive China legislation to date, theAmerica LEADS Actwould provide significant new investments to rebuild the U.S. economy and provide our workers, entrepreneurs, researchers, and manufacturers with the skills and support needed to out-compete China and succeed in the twenty-first century. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-statement-on-reports-that-a-russian-attack-is-likely-responsible-for-tbi-like-injuries-experienced-by-american-public-servants-and-their-families,Shaheen Statement on Reports that a Russian Attack is Likely Responsible for TBI-Like Injuries Experienced by American Public Servants and Their Families,2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Statement on Reports that a Russian Attack is Likely Responsible for TBI-Like Injuries Experienced by American Public Servants and Their Families October 20, 2020 **Shaheen has stood by these government employees and their families, spearheading legislative efforts to provide them benefits due to their injuries** (Washington, DC)U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement following reports from the New York Times and GQ that mysterious injuries experienced by federal employees and their families while serving in China and Cuba are the result of a nefarious attack, likely by Russia. This report is deeply troubling and should spur the Trump administration to do everything in its power to protect federal employees from these attacks and investigate the full scope of this threat, said Shaheen. If it is true that these attacks have also occurred here in the United States, this would be one of the most brazen acts of hostility by an adversary on American soil. This reporting is further vindication for these injured federal employees and their families. Their injuries, and the subsequent treatment by the U.S. Government, have been a living nightmare for these dedicated public servants. These findings should put an end to the foot-dragging, evasiveness and obstruction at the State Department to deliver benefits to all of these injured federal employees and their families, and get to the bottom about what happened. I've been successfully working across the aisle to deliver long-term emergency carebenefits to these families we need a better partner in the current administration. Despite the uncertainty that has surrounded the circumstances that led to these injuries, there is no reason for our government not to care for those who have sacrificed so much in the line of duty. Shaheen recently added language to the pending National Defense Authorization bill, which expands long-term, emergency care benefitsshe secured in government funding legislation signed into law last yearto all U.S. Government employees and their dependents who were injured internationally. Last year'slegislation and the benefits it provides currently, does not apply to non-State Department employees. The final defense bill is still being negotiated between the Senate and the House of Representatives. Shaheen's measure to amend the law followsher bipartisan letterin May, calling on the administration to interpret the law as intended by Congress. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-to-hhs-and-treasury-produce-an-analysis-of-americans-who-will-lose-health-coverage-if-the-aca-is-overturned,Shaheen to HHS and Treasury: Produce an Analysis of Americans Who Will Lose Health Coverage if the ACA is Overturned,2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen to HHS and Treasury: Produce an Analysis of Americans Who Will Lose Health Coverage if the ACA is Overturned October 20, 2020 **Shaheen & group of Senators: In the midst of a global pandemic that has killed over roughly 220,000 people in the U.S. and infected over 8 million others, the President of the United States is actively asking the Supreme Court to eliminate the ACA's critical health protections** **Shaheen has led efforts in the Senate to protect the ACA from Republicans' partisan efforts to strike down the law and eliminate Americans' access to health care** (Washington, DC) In a letter, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and a group of Senators have asked the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Department of the Treasury to conduct an analysis of how the repeal of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in California v. Texas would affect health care coverage in the United States, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The letter was led by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Chris Murphy (D-CT). Despite the ACA's unequivocal success in reducing the number of uninsured Americans, Republican lawmakers have spent years working to overturn the law. These years of sabotage have culminated in California v. Texas, a caseled by 18 attorneys general and President Trump's Department of Justicethat calls for the courts to declare the entire ACA unconstitutional. The President is currently working to fill the late Justice Ruth Bader's Supreme Court seat with his nominee, Judge Amy Coney Barrett, in time to hear arguments in the case in the Supreme Court on November 10, 2020. Barrett's nomination is a key component of the President's self-stated goal to terminate health care under Obamacare [the ACA]. In the midst of a global pandemic that has killed roughly 220,000 people in the U.S. and infected over 8 million others, the President of the United States is actively asking the Supreme Court to eliminate the ACA's critical health protections, the Senators wrote. Republicans in the U.S. Senate had the opportunity to pass legislation barring the President from advocating against the ACA in court, but they refusedchoosing instead to ram through Amy Coney Barrett's nomination and place the health care law at even greater risk. If the ACA is repealed, experts estimate that over 23 million Americans - including as many as 105,000 Granite Staters - will lose health coverage. The Senators have asked HHS and Treasury to answer urgently a series of questions to help policymakers better understand the implications of a decision overturning the ACA. Alongside Shaheen, Warren and Murphy, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tina Smith (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory A. Booker (D-NJ), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The full text of the letter can be read here. Shaheenhas led efforts in Congress to protect and improve the ACA, includingleading all 47 Senate Democrats on a Senate resolutionthat would call on the Department of Justice to reverse its decision to argue in favor of U.S. District Court Judge Reed O'Connor's ruling that would strike down the ACA. This health care sabotage could result in as many as 133 million Americans losing protections for pre-existing conditions, millions more Americans without health insurance, soaring prescription drug costs for seniors, andas many as 105,000 Granite Staterslosing health care coverage. Instead of defending the law and its vital health care protections, the Trump administration's DOJ chose tosidewith Texas and other states challenging our health care law last year, arguing that pre-existing condition protections are unconstitutional. The DOJ laterexpanded its position, arguing on the side of Judge O'Connor that the entire Affordable Care Act should be struck down. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-and-colleagues-call-for-congress-to-act-on-census-extension_urge-whistleblowers-to-speak-out-on-politicization-of-the-count,Shaheen & Colleagues Call For Congress to Act on Census Extension & Urge Whistleblowers to Speak Out on Politicization of the Count,2020-10-19,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen & Colleagues Call For Congress to Act on Census Extension & Urge Whistleblowers to Speak Out on Politicization of the Count October 19, 2020 **Shaheen, the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that funds the census,has been sounding the alarmon the Trump administration's political attacks against the bureau that threaten a fair and accurate 2020 count** **On the Senate floor earlier this month, Shaheen called on the administration end its politicization of the U.S. Census & called on Senate leadership to prioritize an extension in legislation** (Washington, DC)U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH),the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that funds the census, and U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Gary Peters (D-MI)and Brian Schatz (D-HI)today released the following joint statementin response to the Trump administration's political decision to reverse course and end counting for the 2020 Census: After initially announcing an extension of Census operations due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Trump administration's political decision to reverse course and end counting now is simply shameful. The Supreme Court's recent decision upholding this policy is equally outrageous.This politicization of the census should compel Congress to act to preserve the extended timeline for the 2020 Census.It is not too late to allow adequate time to complete an accurate census count. For any person who may have additional knowledge of wrongdoing or misconduct, now is the time to blow the whistle and expose this Administration's mismanagement of the Census. Federal law protects their rights to make protected disclosures to Congress anonymously and free from retaliation. To the patriots who continue to work tirelessly to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the Census: come forward, speak the truth, and Congress will fight for you. According to its own experts,the Census Bureau knewrushing the count during this pandemic could severely degrade the accuracy and completeness of the 2020 Census. Yet despite these warnings, it appearsthe White House intervenedto ensure President Trump would control the apportionment process rather than ensuring an accurate count for the American people as required by the Constitution. With a rush to now process Census data under a drastically reduced timeline, experts at the Bureau previously warned they could be forced to curtail or entirely remove key steps developed over the past decade to ensure the completeness and accuracy of the count. Communities across the country now may be denied billions of dollars in federal funding because this Administration's politically-motivated choice. We need brave Americans to stand up and speak out. As the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that funds the census, Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to secure a fair and accurate 2020 census and to hold the administration responsible for its destructive efforts to politicizes the census count. Following the Supreme Court's decision to allow the administration to end the census early, Shaheen called on Congress to act to preserve the extended timeline for gathering census responses. This followsShaheen's remarks on the Senate floor earlier this month demanding the administration an end its politicization of the census and called on Senate leadership to prioritize an extension in legislation. In September,Shaheen sent a letter with a group of lawmakersled by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) to the U.S. Census Bureau calling for more details on how they plan to use data from the 2020 Census to apportion congressional representation.In a previous letterShaheen sent to U.S. Census Director Steven Dillingham,Shaheen called on himto answer a series of questions to ensure the 2020 Census is completed fairly and accurately. Her letter was in response toreportsthat the Trump administration is trying to rush execution of the Census for political purposes. In July, Senator Shaheensent a bipartisan letterwith Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) the Chair of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that funds the census raising concerns of political impropriety afterreportsthe Trump administration transferred political appointees to the nonpartisan agency. In August, Shaheen sent a letter with a group of Senators to congressional leadership urging them to include an extension of the census in upcoming COVID-19 relief. Shaheen alsosent a letterto the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Commerce requesting an investigation into whether political pressure from the White House and Department of Commerce leadership led to the decision to shorten field data collection and self-response operations by a month. Additionally,Shaheen led a lettersigned by all the Democrats on the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations subcommittee, calling for the Government Accountability Office to thoroughly assess and compile a report on the completeness and quality of the 2020 Census.The Government Accountability Office which is an independent, non-partisan federal oversight agency determinedthat theTrump administration's rushed censusreporting timeline threatens the accuracy of this year's census count. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-and-hassan-call-for-swift-release-of-heating-assistance-help,Shaheen & Hassan Call for Swift Release of Heating Assistance Help,2020-10-19,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen & Hassan Call for Swift Release of Heating Assistance Help October 19, 2020 ** In letter, Shaheen, Hassan & group of Senators urge Trump administration to make LIHEAP funds available to states as soon as possible** (Washington, DC) With colder weather approaching and energy costs projected to increase this winter,U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and a group of Senators urged the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as swiftly and at the highest level possible under the current continuing resolution.HHS typically releases 90 percent of the $3.7 billion full year appropriation under a continuing resolution. The letter was led by U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI)andSusan Collins (R-ME). Heating a home is unaffordable for millions of low-income households, costing an average of $911 per year nationally.According to the National Energy Assistance Directors' Association, 15 to 20 percent of residential customers are at least 60 days behind on their electric and natural gas bills. As of July 31, 2020, the estimated resulting electric arrearages are between $8 billion and $9.9 billion and natural gas arrearages are between $975 million and $1.3 billion. LIHEAP is a federally funded program that provides eligible low-income households with help paying a portion of their heating and utility bills. Eligibility is based on a household's combined income as well as the number of residents. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, ensuring Granite State families and seniors have access to heating and energy assistance has been a top priority for Senator Shaheen. Shaheen hashistorically saved and boosted funding for LIHEAP, which President Trump's budget proposals have repeatedly sought to eliminate. LIHEAP provides assistance to more than 28,000 Granite Staters, many of them families, seniors and people with disabilities. In their letter, the Senators highlighted the importance of the LIHEAP program in providing heating assistance to vulnerable households. As the main federal program that helps low-income households and seniors with their energy bills, LIHEAP provides critical assistance during the cold winter and hot summer months. October marks the start of the heating season for many states and low-income families and seniors will be facing additional strains on their household budgets. In addition, millions of low-income families, including seniors, are facing new and severe financial hardship due to the coronavirus, making the assistance provided through LIHEAP more important than ever. Low-income, elderly, and those with disabilities can get help paying their winter heating bills by applying for LIHEAP through their local Community Action Agency. Benefit amounts are based on each household's income level, family size, whether they live in subsidized or non-subsidized housing, and the type of fuel used for heating. The Senators concluded their letter by reiterating the need to provide certainty to states that LIHEAP funding will be ready and available to be disbursed to American families, which is particularly important as the coldest months approach and as households continue to weather the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. The letter can be read in full here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-and-hassan-cosponsored-bills-to-address-veterans-mental-health-award-congressional-gold-medal-to-wwii-us-army-special-operators_establish-three-digit-national-suicide-hotline-signed-into-law,"Shaheen & Hassan-Cosponsored Bills to Address Veterans’ Mental Health, Award Congressional Gold Medal to WWII U.S. Army Special Operators & Establish Three-Digit National Suicide Hotline Signed into Law",2020-10-19,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen & Hassan-Cosponsored Bills to Address Veterans' Mental Health, Award Congressional Gold Medal to WWII U.S. Army Special Operators & Establish Three-Digit National Suicide Hotline Signed into Law October 19, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) issued the following statements after three bipartisan bills they cosponsored were signed into law, including theCommander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act, the Merrill's Marauders Congressional Gold Medal Act and the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act. The Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act is a comprehensive and aggressive approach to connect more veterans with mental health care. The bill will bolster the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) mental health workforce and increase rural or hard-to-reach veterans' access to VA care, while making sure veterans have access to alternative and local treatment options. The Merrill's Marauders Congressional Gold Medal Act recognizes the extraordinary service of nearly 3,000 U.S. Army Special Forces volunteers whose successful efforts to drive a much larger Japanese force out of Myanmar, then called Burma, in World War II proved critical to Allied success in the theater.TheNational Suicide Hotline Designation Actwill designate 9-8-8 as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and include the Veterans Crisis Line for veteran-specific mental health support. These new laws are important examples of the bipartisan work underway in Congress that doesn't always make the front page, but is critical for Granite Staters and Americans throughout the country, said Senator Shaheen. Through these three pieces of legislation, we will enhance the full scope of medical services especially mental health care for our veterans, increase suicide prevention efforts and recognize the heroic actions of World War II service members and veterans who helped secure our victory in the Pacific region. In delivering these bills to the President's desk, it's clear what Congress can do when partisan politics are left at the door. I'll continue to fight for that same bipartisan spirit to find common ground on the pressing issues facing our country today, most importantly, a robust COVID-19 relief bill that is urgently needed for New Hampshire and communities throughout the nation to survive this crisis. I am proud to have worked with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass bipartisan legislation, which the President has now signed, to help improve mental health care for veterans, recognize WWII heroes, and bolster suicide prevention with a simple three-digit 9-8-8 national suicide hotline, said Senator Hassan. I will keep working with members of both parties to find common ground on the biggest challenges facing Granite Staters and all Americans, including working to pass an additional comprehensive COVID-19 relief package. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-and-kuster-announce-more-than-784k-to-support-climate-change-research-led-by-nh-small-business,"Shaheen, Hassan & Kuster Announce More than $784K to Support Climate Change Research Led by NH Small Business",2020-10-18,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan & Kuster Announce More than $784K to Support Climate Change Research Led by NH Small Business October 18, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representative Annie Kuster (NH-02) announced that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded Creare LLC in Hanover $784,347 in federal funds in support of climate change research. Specifically, the funding was awarded through DOE's Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) program, which seeks to fund the creation of high-potential, high-impact energy technologies that will develop new ways for Americans to get, use and store energy. The award is an investment in carbon emissions reduction technology research and will support Creare's development of a low-cost air contactor that will capture carbon dioxide from the air so that it can be recovered, concentrated and stored. Senator Shaheen is a strong supporter of robust funding for small business research innovation programs like ARPA-E and has continuously led successful efforts to prevent funding for ARPA-E from being eliminated. New Hampshire small businesses are catalysts for high-tech research and innovation and have the fortitude to create new, resourceful ways to combat climate change and protect our environment, while reducing energy costs and creating jobs, said Senator Shaheen. I am very pleased that Creare has received these funds, which will help support the company's exciting work in support of research to reduce harmful carbon emissions. Securing federal investments in the Department of Energy's programs that are put to good use here in the Granite State has long been a top priority of mine, and I'll continue to fight for more funding through my work on the Senate Appropriations Committee. This federal grant will help Creare, an innovative Granite State business, create low-cost technology that would remove harmful carbon dioxide emissions from the air and help combat the impact of greenhouse gasses on our environment, Senator Hassan said. Creare is one of the many businesses in New Hampshire that are on the cutting-edge of technological advancements to help move our state and country forward. I will continue working to secure additional federal resources to help our business sector thrive. Climate change poses a significant threat to our health, the environment, our economy, and the future of our planet, said Representative Kuster. This funding will enable Creare to conduct research aimed at developing low-cost solutions to reduce carbon dioxide levels in the air a key contributor to the climate crisis we are facing. I will continue working to combat climate change and preserve our environment for future generations. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-statement-massachusetts-decision-tax-nh-remote-workers,Pappas Statement on Massachusetts Decision to Tax NH Remote Workers,2020-10-16,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement after the Massachusetts Department of Revenue published a final rule which unfairly continues to levy a Massachusetts state income tax on New Hampshire residents who are working from home because of COVID-19: This rule change by Massachusetts extends an outrageous cash grab targeting Granite Staters who are doing their part to stay home and stay safe during a pandemic, said Congressman Chris Pappas. At a time when many New Hampshire residents are teleworking from home in order to keep their families and their communities safe, it is completely unfair for Massachusetts to levy an income tax on these workers. As I've said before, we aren't going down without a fight on this. The long arm of the Massachusetts tax collector should not be reaching into New Hampshire residents' wallets. Legislation I am leading, the Multi-State Workers Tax Fairness Act, eliminates overly complex and unfair multi-state tax codes and ensures that employees will only be subject to the tax laws of their state when they telework, continued Pappas. I will continue to push House leadership to bring this bill to a vote on the House floor, and urge my colleagues of both parties to support this legislation to ensure fundamental fairness for all our workers. During the COVID-19 pandemic, telework has become necessary across a range of industries to keep workers and their families safe. Unfortunately, in a break from clearly established precedent, the Massachusetts state government (and other neighboring states) are currently forcing Granite Staters who are employed by Massachusetts companies to pay Massachusetts state income tax on money earned from telework in New Hampshire. TheMulti-State Worker Tax Fairness Actwill protect New Hampshire residents from unfair taxation by clarifying that workers are only required to pay income tax to the state where they were physically present when the income was earned. Specifically, for teleworking Granite Staters employed by companies based in other states, the bill would eliminate the need to pay any state income tax whatsoever. In September, Pappas joined the Tax Foundation for a round tablediscussion of his Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act and his advocacy for Granite Staters who are working from home during COVID-19 for companies based in other states.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-and-kuster-announce-26m-in-federal-support-for-new-senior-housing-facility-in-franklin,"Shaheen, Hassan & Kuster Announce $26M in Federal Support for New Senior Housing Facility in Franklin",2020-10-16,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan & Kuster Announce $26M in Federal Support for New Senior Housing Facility in Franklin October 16, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representative Annie Kuster (NH-02) that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded the Peabody Home in Franklin $26 million in direct loans to construct a senior housing facility. The federal dollars were awarded through the USDA Rural Development's Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen fights to secure and boost funding for this program at the USDA each year in government funding legislation. This federal assistance will help meet the demand for senior living needs in the Lakes Region. Ensuring safe and reliable housing for seniors has never been as critical as it is today amid this pandemic, so I'm very pleased to see these federal resources being put to good use in support of Granite State seniors, said Senator Shaheen. I've fought to safeguard and boost funding for this grant and loan program at the USDA because it is so important that our rural communities have access to this kind of federal assistance that they can use to improve the livelihoods and well-being of residents. As negotiations on government funding legislation for next year are underway, I'll continue to fight to protect and bolster housing resources that will keep our seniors safe and give their families peace of mind. ""This significant investment will help ensure that more Granite Stateseniors can retire with dignity and receive the high quality health care and supports that they need,"" said Senator Hassan. ""I am pleased that Peabody Home will be able to create a new state-of-the-art facility, andI will continue to work with our New Hampshire Congressional Delegation to support seniors' health and well-being."" As a strong advocate for rural development funding in the city of Franklin and throughout New Hampshire communities, I'm thrilled that Peabody Home has received this significant funding from the Department of Agriculture (USDA), said Congresswoman Kuster. Peabody Home is a wonderful place to live and provides important resources to local senior citizens, who are especially vulnerable during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This direct loan from the USDA's rural development program represents an important investment in the city of Franklin, its residents, and surrounding communities. The new senior-living facility that will be constructed with these funds will help to improve the quality of life of countless Granite State residents in the years to come. The New Hampshire congressional delegation has worked to protect Granite State homeowners and renters left vulnerable by the COVID-19 crisis. In July, Shaheensent a letterto the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), calling on the agency to expedite the release of $4 billion of Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding for emergency housing. Shaheenalso recently sent a bipartisan letter with Senator Hassan to Senate leadershipurging a fix for a maximum allotment provision that limits the amount of CARES Act relief funds that can be awarded to smaller states through the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) program. These funds are used by Community Action Programs (CAPs) to help combat homelessness and address housing needs. Shaheen has also called on HUD to addressconcerns she heard from New Hampshire housing officials and advocatesregarding CDBG-CV funding and guidance. In addition, Shaheen and Hassan arecosponsors of theEmergencyRentalAssistanceandRentalMarketStabilizationActof2020, legislation that would establish an Emergency Rental Assistance program to provide $100 billion in emergency rental assistance to help families and individuals pay their rent and remain housed during and after the COVID-19 crisis. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-highlights-need-for-additional-covid-19-resources-for-nh-nursing-homes-during-visit-to-hanover-hill-health-care-center,Shaheen Highlights Need for Additional COVID-19 Resources for NH Nursing Homes during Visit to Hanover Hill Health Care Center,2020-10-16,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Highlights Need for Additional COVID-19 Resources for NH Nursing Homes during Visit to Hanover Hill Health Care Center October 16, 2020 Shaheen speaks to nursing home representatives from throughout the state during her visit to Hanover Hill Health Care Center (Manchester, NH) This morning, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) visited Hanover Hill Health Care Center, a nursing home located in Manchester, to discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nursing homes throughout the state. In New Hampshire, the pandemic has had a severe and disproportionate impact on nursing homes, with 81% of all COVID-related deaths in the state occurring among residents of these facilities. During her visit, Shaheen met with the facility's leadership, Brendan Williams, President and CEO of the New Hampshire Health Care Association and representatives from the New Hampshire Association of Residential Care Homes and Catholic Charities and heard more on the challenges these facilities have faced amid the public health crisis. Shaheen underscored the need for more federal support for nursing homes to ensure that they are able to hire and train staff and purchase PPE and COVID-19 testing that will help protect the health and well-being of residents and caregivers. Shaheen has fought to provide resources and support for Granite State nursing homes during the pandemic. Last month, she questioned top Trump administration officials on the administration's failure to fully distribute relief funds meant to help COVID-19 mitigation efforts at long-term care facilities. She alsohelped to introduce new legislation with Senator Bob Casey (D-PA)to provide more funding for nursing homes to help them protect residents and contain the spread of COVID-19. In addition, Shaheen has repeatedly stated that any relief package passed by Congress must include more assistance for nursing homes and health care providers, among other priorities that address the challenges New Hampshire and the nation face. The pandemic has had a devastating and heartbreaking impact on New Hampshire nursing homes, which have suffered from outbreaks that have led to eighty-one percent of all COVID-related deaths in the state. This is a shocking statistic that makes it painfully clear that our nursing homes are in dire need of additional federal support, said Shaheen. As I heard from nursing home representatives from across New Hampshire this morning, Hanover Hill and other facilities face immense challenges on the frontlines of this crisis. That's why I will not let up in fighting for COVID-19 relief legislation that meets the urgent need of nursing homes and helps them protect the lives of residents and caretakers. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-leads-nh-delegation-in-announcing-175m-to-establish-new-family-drug-court-program,Shaheen Leads NH Delegation in Announcing $1.75M to Establish New Family Drug Court Program,2020-10-16,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Leads NH Delegation in Announcing $1.75M to Establish New Family Drug Court Program October 16, 2020 **NH Delegation also announces $326K for Carroll County to help those struggling with mental health issues and substance use disorder (SUD) & $155K to bolster program that assists state and local governments to help combat recidivism for those struggling with SUD** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Department of Justice (DOJ), announced that the DOJ has awarded the New Hampshire Judicial Branch (NHJB) $1.75 million to establish a new family drug court program. The grant will fund a Family Treatment Court (FTC) pilot project in Sullivan County to help enhance access to services for children and families experiencing abuse and neglect, and those impacted by substance use disorder (SUD) and/or mental illness. This will be the state's first FTC and serve as a pilot program for potential additional FTCs in other counties throughout the state. Senator Shaheen has encouraged DOJ to expand this program in recent years. The delegation also announced $326,150 for Carroll County through the Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program, which invests in public safety efforts to assist those with mental illness and/or substance use disorder. Specifically, this funding will be used to bring social workers or mental health professionals into contact with law enforcement agencies when someone is in crisis. Additionally, the delegation announced $155,313 for the New Hampshire Department of Justice (NHDOJ) through the Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) Program. The RSAT program helps states develop and institute programs at correctional and detention facilities for those struggling with substance use disorder in an effort to stem the tide of the crisis and reduce recidivism related to drug related offenses. This new pilot program is vital for New Hampshire, which has been among the hardest-hit states by the opioid epidemic for far too long. We know all too well that the impact of substance use disorder isn't limited to the person struggling it's felt by the entire family, said Senator Shaheen. The Family Treatment Court program will be critical for Sullivan County families in the short-term, and important for families throughout the state in the long-term as we use the outcomes of this pilot program to shape more response options in other regions throughout New Hampshire. This is more important than ever as we see how the substance use disorder crisis has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Department of Justice which awards these grants, I'll keep fighting for more funding opportunities to help Granite Staters who are struggling and their families who are fighting this crisis with them. ""The fentanyl, heroin, and opioid epidemic has taken a grave toll on our state, and we must do everything we can to meetGranite Staters struggling with substance misusewhere they're at so that theycan receive the assistance they need,"" said Senator Hassan. ""These federal grants will help strengthen our state'sfamily drug court system, ourresponse to emergencies involvingsubstance misuse or mental illness, and substance abuse treatment programs for incarcerated individuals. I will continue to fight along with the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation for additional resources to bolster our state's ongoingresponse to thisheartbreaking epidemic."" Substance use disorders and mental health challenges are pressing issues facing New Hampshire communities, and they require thoughtful, comprehensive solutions, said Congresswoman Kuster, founder and co-chair of the Bipartisan Opioid Task Force. Treating addiction as a family issue, providing substance abuse treatment to justice-involved individuals to prepare them for a healthy reintegration into society, and de-escalating encounters between people who are experiencing mental health issues and law enforcement are all critical steps to improving the health and wellbeing of New Hampshire as a whole. I will continue working to ensure all Granite Staters have the support and resources they need to stay healthy and live up to their full potential. These federal funds will help individuals struggling with addiction and open the door to treatment and recovery when they come in contact with the justice system,said Congressman Pappas.New Hampshire drug courts play an important role in giving individuals a another chance, allowing them to take control of their lives, and ensuring they can positive choices that lead to better outcomes. New Hampshire's addiction crisis is deeply personal to too many families, and I will continue to take every action possible to save lives and curb this epidemic. Senator Shaheen and the New Hampshire congressional delegation have prioritized efforts in Congress to combat the substance use disorder epidemic and provide assistance to impacted Granite Staters. Last year, the delegation announced $149,405 in federal funding to combat recidivism among justice-involved individuals in New Hampshire struggling with substance use disorder. In 2018, Senators Shaheen and Hassanhelped negotiatea bipartisan agreement that resulted in a large national increase in opioid treatment funding through the State Opioid Response (SOR) grant program over two years including $28 million this year. The Senatorshelped negotiate a 15 percent set-asideof federal funding for hardest hit states, which has helped states deeply impacted like New Hampshire. These combined efforts led to a1000% increasein federal treatment and prevention funding for New Hampshire.Last year, Senator Shaheen spearheaded new legislationtheTurn the Tide Actto increase the availability of substance use disorder treatment. A key component of her legislation to allow treatment providers to use SOR grants to treat help patients suffering from methamphetamine and cocaine dependency, in addition to opioid use disorder,was included in funding legislationsigned into law in December.As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact New Hampshire, the congressional delegation has repeatedly called for additional funding for substance use disorder services in a COVID-19 relief package. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/stratham-pappas-continues-push-va-pay-local-providers,"In Stratham, Pappas Continues Push for VA to Pay Local Providers",2020-10-15,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas(NH-01)visited Senior Helpers in Stratham to speak with care providers about the lengthy delays they have experienced getting their claims paid by the VA for treating veterans. Pappas, who chairs the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, has been the leader in Congress on resolving issues with the implementation of the MISSION Act causing local providers to face extreme delays in claims being paid by VA. Senior Helpers is part of the VA's Community Care Network, established by the MISSION Act. The VA's implementation of the MISSION Act expanded veterans' access to local providers through the creation of Community Care Networks. Although Community Care Networks are intended to become a long-term option to provide our veterans with better care, the transition has left regional providers with millions of dollars in unpaid claims. Earlier this year, the New Hampshire Hospital Association estimated that 23 hospitals were awaiting payment for nearly $137 million in claims for VA community care, despite a majority of the services being provided in 2019. Mounting unpaid claims have created intense financial strain for providers and even prompted some providers to stop caring for veterans altogether. This is causing veterans to lose their care or see delays in the care they need. Senior Helpers has received over $100,000 in back payments from the VA for their services since they contacted Rep. Pappas's office for assistance resolving these claims. Veterans who have fought for this country should not have to face yet another battle to get the care they have earned when their service ends,said Congressman Pappas.Any provider - like Senior Helpers here in Stratham - who stands ready, willing, and eager to care for our veterans should not face a complicated and inefficient bureaucracy that forces them to lose time, money, and eventually the ability to care for veterans altogether. Community care opens the doors for critical services for our veterans, and I will continue to work with providers, VA, and third-party payers to fix this unacceptable situation. Senior Helpers of Southern New Hampshire was honored to have Congressmen Chris Pappas and staff members visit their office in Stratham today.saidWendy Buckley, Senior Director of Operations at Senior Helpers. The Congressmen and his staff have been influential in helping us to obtain over $100,000 inback payments from the VA for their Community Cares Program with invoices dating back to February 2019. Once we began working with the Pappas team we began to receive payments starting to arrive within 14 days. We are a small business and without their assistance, we may have been forced tocease or decline Veterans for personal care services in their homes. We are extremely grateful. In February, Congressman Pappas chaireda hearingof the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee of the Veteran's Affairs Committee on the challenges facing community care providers as a result of MISSION Act implementation and invited the co-founders of Veteran & First Responder Healthcare, a Manchester-based, veteran-owned community care provider. Congressman Pappas led a bipartisan letterto the VA regarding this issue after hearing from local veterans and providers. Earlier this year, Pappassecured the commitment of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Robert Wilkie to resolve the ongoing problems facing VA's Community Care Networks(CCN) during a Congressional hearing. Furthermore, Congressman Pappas has met with VA community care providers and patients inSeabrook,Laconia, and Stratham. And he has convened meetings withNew Hampshire Hospital Association and VAto discuss payment issues.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-and-hassan-call-on-fda-to-outline-its-process-for-ensuring-a-future-covid-19-vaccine-is-safe-for-older-adults,Shaheen & Hassan Call on FDA to Outline its Process for Ensuring a Future COVID-19 Vaccine is Safe for Older Adults,2020-10-15,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen & Hassan Call on FDA to Outline its Process for Ensuring a Future COVID-19 Vaccine is Safe for Older Adults October 15, 2020 WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) are requesting that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) outline its process for ensuring that a future COVID-19 vaccine is safe for older adults. As manufacturers seek approval or authorization for drugs and vaccines from your agency, the public must have confidence that the review process is comprehensive, evidence-based, and ensures safety for our most vulnerable populations, the Senators wrote. Understanding that there are challenges associated with safely enrolling certain high-risk populations in clinical trials related to COVID-19, I ask that FDA provide a clear plan for how your agency will evaluate the safety and efficacy of investigational COVID-19 drugs and vaccines in older adults. In their letter to FDA Commissioner Dr. Stephen Hahn, the Senators ask the FDA to provide clear, transparent information about the steps that the agency is taking to ensure that COVID-19 drugs and vaccines are safe and effective for use in older adults. Along with Senators Shaheen and Hassan, the letter is also signed by Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bob Casey (D-PA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Gary Peters (D-MI). To read the Senators' letter, click here or see below. Dear Commissioner Hahn: We write to you today to request information on how the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is ensuring that phase three clinical trials will provide adequate data and information on the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 drugs (including biologics) and vaccines in older adults. The ongoing work by the biomedical industry and the federal government to develop safe and effective drugs for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19, as well as vaccines, is critical to combating the pandemic and protecting our most vulnerable citizens. As manufacturers seek approval or authorization for drugs and vaccines from your agency, the public must have confidence that the review process is comprehensive, evidence-based, and ensures safety for our most vulnerable populations. Understanding that there are challenges associated with safely enrolling certain high-risk populations in clinical trials related to COVID-19, we ask that FDA provide a clear plan for how your agency will evaluate the safety and efficacy of investigational COVID-19 drugs and vaccines in older adults. COVID-19 has had a disproportionate impact on adults aged 65 years and older, accounting for roughly 80 percent of COVID-19-related deaths. In documents released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), public health officials indicate that older adults residing in nursing homes could be among the first groups recommended to receive a COVID-19 vaccine once it is available to the public.[1] A report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, requested by CDC and the National Institutes of Health, outlines a framework for COVID-19 allocation that also prioritizes vaccine administration among older adults living in congregate settings. That is why it is critical that FDA provide clear, transparent information about the steps the agency is taking to ensure that COVID-19 drugs and vaccines are safe and effective for use in older adults. In June 2020, FDA released guidance on the development of COVID-19 vaccines, stating that late-phase clinical trials should include adequate representation of elderly individuals.[2] As you know, adult representation in clinical trials is especially critical since older adults experience age-related changes to immune systems that may impact their reaction to immunizations. Yet, recent analysis suggests that ongoing COVID-19 clinical trials do not all include significant age-based diversity.[3] For example, a recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that older adults are likely to be excluded from half of the clinical trials related to COVID-19 drugs, and all COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials.[4] Although the developers of the four COVID-19 vaccine candidates currently in U.S. phase three clinical trials have set goals for the inclusion of older adults in these trials, actual participation rates are unclear. Some public health experts have raised concerns about how this lack of adequate representation could affect the ability for independent review boards to properly evaluate the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines in older adults, including the Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).[5], [6] The disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on older adults further stresses the need to ensure through inclusive clinical trial design, post-market surveillance, and other research methods that COVID-19 drugs and vaccines are safe and effective for this particularly vulnerable population. To that end, we ask that your agency provide details on how FDA will ensure that COVID-19 drugs and vaccines are safe and effective for older adults. Please respond to the questions below by October 29, 2020. What percentage of ongoing phase three clinical trials for COVID-19 drugs include adults over the age of 64? In phase three clinical trials for COVID-19 drugs that include adults over the age of 64, what percentage of participants are over the age of 64? What percentage of ongoing phase three clinical trials for COVID-19 vaccines include adults over the age of 64? In phase three clinical trials for COVID-19 vaccines that include adults over the age of 64, what percentage of participants are over the age of 64? In clinical trials related to COVID-19, does FDA require detailed justification for the exclusion of older adults from clinical trials? What steps has your agency taken to ensure that COVID-19 related clinical trials include older populations when it is medically safe to do so? How does your agency intend to evaluate the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 drugs or vaccines for older adults if clinical trials for those products did not include or only included limited representation of adults over the age of 64? Will the VRBPAC review data and issue recommendations focused on adults over age 64 prior to any vaccine being authorized for emergency use in this population? If the VRBPAC finds there is insufficient data to determine the safety and efficacy of a vaccine candidate for adults over the age of 64, how will your agency work with vaccine developers to generate this necessary information? To what extent will data and information from COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials, including age-based exclusions, the demographic breakdown of trial participants, and data disaggregated by age, be available to the public if a vaccine is authorized for emergency use? Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-and-kuster-announce-more-than-267k-for-franklin-school-district-to-bolster-school-safety_support-mental-health-services-for-students,"Shaheen, Hassan & Kuster Announce More than $267K for Franklin School District to Bolster School Safety & Support Mental Health Services for Students",2020-10-14,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan & Kuster Announce More than $267K for Franklin School District to Bolster School Safety & Support Mental Health Services for Students October 14, 2020 (Manchester, NH) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that funds the Department of Justice (DOJ), announced with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representative Annie Kuster (NH-02) that the DOJ has awarded $267,595 to the Franklin School District through DOJ's Students, Teachers, Officers Preventing (STOP) School Violence Grant Program. Specifically, the funds will be used by the district to support its Office of School Wellness, which provides assistance to students who have suffered from trauma and adverse childhood experiences. By supporting the office's critical work in educating youth, training school personnel, enriching community partnerships, developing intervention methods and improving services available to students in need, the funds will contribute to a positive, safe environment for students to learn. We need to ensure that school districts across New Hampshire like Franklin have the resources they need to care for students who have tragically experienced trauma. This is especially true as we continue to combat COVID-19, which has exacerbated crises like the substance use disorder epidemic that has increased stress in households and has made students more vulnerable, said Senator Shaheen, who wrote a letter of support for this grant. I'm very pleased that the Franklin School District received these federal funds, which will bolster the important work the Office of School Wellness is doing to support at-risk students and ensure they are able to get the help they need. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I'll continue to fight for resources that invest in the safety and well-being of New Hampshire schools. I am glad that the Franklin School District has received this federal funding to build on its efforts to provide mental health resources to its students who have experienced trauma, Senator Hassan said. This grant will help improve the overall wellbeing of Franklin's student body while also preventing incidences of violence on school property. I will continue working with the rest of the delegation to secure additional federal resources to support the mental wellness of students in communities across New Hampshire. We know that the mental health of students is key when it comes to their overall wellbeing and the prevention of violence in schools, said Representative Kuster. This funding is a critical investment in the mental health of Franklin students and will help to provide vital resources to support those who have experienced trauma. I'm pleased to join Senator Shaheen and Senator Hassan to announce this important funding, and I will continue working with them to ensure all Granite State students can live and learn in safe environments. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/icymi_diane-foley-mother-of-slain-journalist-james-foley-and-shaheen-discuss-their-efforts-to-secure-a-us-trial-for-isis-terrorists-with-union-leader,"ICYMI – Diane Foley, Mother of Slain Journalist James Foley, & Shaheen Discuss Their Efforts to Secure a U.S. Trial for ISIS Terrorists With Union Leader",2020-10-13,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"ICYMI Diane Foley, Mother of Slain Journalist James Foley, & Shaheen Discuss Their Efforts to Secure a U.S. Trial for ISIS Terrorists With Union Leader October 13, 2020 (Manchester, NH) Last week, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined Diane Foley, the mother of slain American journalist and Granite Stater James Foley, in an interview with the New Hampshire Union Leader to discuss the transfer of ISIS terrorists and British Beatles members El Shafee el-Sheikh and Alexanda Kotey to the United States to stand trial for the torture and murder of her son, as well as Americans Peter Kassig, Steven Sotloff and Kayla Mueller. Working closely with the families of the victims, Shaheen led efforts to ensure these terrorists were brought to trial in the United States. During the interview, Shaheen described the news as a huge step forward and hailed the Foley family's vigorous advocacy over the years to make it a reality. Foley highlighted Shaheen as the voice in government whose efforts helped to facilitate a breakthrough between the Trump administration and the British government and led to the extradition of the two men to face justice in the United States. Foley also expressed hope for the growth of bipartisan support for legislation to rescue Americans captured by ISIS and other terrorist organizations. Read the full story on Shaheen and Foley's joint interview with the Union Leader's Kevin Landrigan here, or below. Detainee reform would be fitting legacy, James Foley's mom says By KEVIN LANDRIGAN ROCHESTER Diane Foley, the mother of slain photographer James Foley, said she's optimistic bipartisan support is building for legislation to rescue other Americans detained by ISIS and other terrorist organizations around the globe. Foley spoke soon after listening to the detention hearing and arraignment Friday of El Shafee el-Sheikh and Alexanda Kotey, the two suspected members of the Beatles ISIS wing accused in the torture and murder of her son and three other American hostages in 2014. She admitted it was deflating to learn the case would be continued until next Jan. 15 to give their lawyers time to prepare for trial. She looks forward one day to be able to give an impact statement at the trial's conclusion. I would really very much like to give a victim witness statement and I am hopeful that will happen because the authorities have been very accommodating, Foley said. You know I think it's important that both men begin to understand the pain and suffering they have inflicted. When you are caught up in the jihadist movement, it is hard to be conscious of what you have been doing. God willing, perhaps they can make some amends and realize the consequences of their actions. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., said she had only dreamed this day would come when in 2018 she visited the camp where hundreds of suspected ISIS terrorists were held along the Syrian border. It is a huge step forward and speaks to the advocacy of you, Diane, and your family that has brought us to this breakthrough, Shaheen said. Foley said Shaheen was the voice in government that the movement, led by the four families, needed to help convince the Trump administration to take the death penalty off the table so the British government would agree to release these prisoners to face trial in the U.S. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-reacts-to-scotus-ruling-that-allows-trump-to-end-census-count-early-the-supreme-court-has-effectively-given-the-green-light-to-the-trump-administrations-politicization-of-the-census,Shaheen Reacts to SCOTUS Ruling that Allows Trump to End Census Count Early: “The Supreme Court has effectively given the green light to the Trump administration’s politicization of the census”,2020-10-13,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Reacts to SCOTUS Ruling that Allows Trump to End Census Count Early: The Supreme Court has effectively given the green light to the Trump administration's politicization of the census October 13, 2020 **Shaheen, the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that funds the census,has been sounding the alarmon the Trump administration's political attacks against the bureau that threaten a fair and accurate 2020 count** **On the Senate floor earlier this month, Shaheen demanded the administration end its politicization of the U.S. Census & called on Senate leadership to prioritize an extension in legislation** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that funds the census, issued the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Trump administration could end the 2020 census count early: The Supreme Court has effectively given the green light to the Trump administration's politicization of the census, said Shaheen. This decision should compel Congress to act to preserve the extended timeline for gathering census responses. There is no policy justification for rushing the census count yet it risks undercounting communities across the country. An inaccurate census will trigger a constitutional crisis and further undermines faith in our governing institutions. Ensuring an accurate count should be a bipartisan priority and it's very disappointing to see the Trump administration's tampering with the census go unchecked. As the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that funds the census, Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to secure a fair and accurate 2020 census and to hold the administration responsible for its destructive efforts to politicizes the census count. On the Senate floor earlier this month, Shaheen demanded the administration an end its politicization of the census and called on Senate leadership to prioritize an extension in legislation. In September, Shaheen sent a letter with a group of lawmakers led by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) to the U.S. Census Bureau calling for more details on how they plan to use data from the 2020 Census to apportion congressional representation.In a previous letterShaheen sent to U.S. Census Director Steven Dillingham,Shaheen called on himto answer a series of questions to ensure the 2020 Census is completed fairly and accurately. Her letter was in response toreportsthat the Trump administration is trying to rush execution of the Census for political purposes. In July, Senator Shaheensent a bipartisan letterwith Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) the Chair of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that funds the census raising concerns of political impropriety afterreportsthe Trump administration transferred political appointees to the nonpartisan agency. In August, Shaheen sent a letter with a group of Senators to congressional leadership urging them to include an extension of the census in upcoming COVID-19 relief. Shaheen alsosent a letterto the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Commerce requesting an investigation into whether political pressure from the White House and Department of Commerce leadership led to the decision to shorten field data collection and self-response operations by a month. Additionally,Shaheen led a lettersigned by all the Democrats on the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations subcommittee, calling for the Government Accountability Office to thoroughly assess and compile a report on the completeness and quality of the 2020 Census.The Government Accountability Office which is an independent, non-partisan federal oversight agency determinedthat theTrump administration's rushed censusreporting timeline threatens the accuracy of this year's census count. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/white-house-poised-return-negotiating-table-pappas-urges-round-clock-effort-get,"With White House Poised to Return to Negotiating Table, Pappas Urges Round-the-Clock Effort to Get a Bipartisan COVID-19 Deal",2020-10-09,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today,Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01)urged the White House and Congressional negotiators to do whatever is necessary to get a compromise, bipartisan deal on a COVID-19 response package done for the American people as soon as possible. Pappas criticized the President's decision last week toabruptly end his Administration's role in COVID-19 talksand urged the White House to continue talking with Congressional leaders.Media reportstoday indicate that Secretary Mnuchin and the Administration heeded calls from Pappas and others to return to negotiations with Speaker Pelosi and that talks may continue throughout the weekend. I called on the White House to return to the negotiating table after abruptly pulling out of talks this week because we must treat the current crisis with the seriousness and urgency it deserves,said Congressman Pappas.""It's time for negotiators to come to the table, forge a compromise, and not leave until there's a deal for the American people that can be submitted to Congress. New Hampshire small businesses are hurting and facing an uncertain future, thousands of workers remain unemployed and unable to pay thebills, and families are still struggling to make ends meet. Now isn't the time for further distraction or gamesmanship. Now is the time for action. Priority number one must be working together to get a deal done. Anything less is Washington politics at its worst and will hurt Granite State families. Last month,Congressman Pappas joined a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi calling on her to bring forward and pass a COVID-19 relief packagethat responds to the needs of everyday Americans coping with the impacts of this pandemic. For months, Rep. Pappas has called on both parties to come together and work to pass another round of COVID-19 support nearly five months after the Heroes Act was passed in May. Recently,Pappas called on leaders of both partiesto end the political game-playing and gimmicks and get a bill done. Pappas has also supported the Houseremaining in sessionand prioritizing a COVID-19 bill as U.S. deaths surpassed 200,000. On October 1st, Pappas voted topass a revised COVID relief packagethat provides direct support to small businesses, expands access to COVID treatment, directly supports our struggling communities, and helps reduce financial burdens on New Hampshire veterans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-calls-for-reassessment-of-layoffs-at-national-passport-center-in-portsmouth-and-questions-mishandling-of-layoff-notices,Shaheen Calls for Reassessment of Layoffs at National Passport Center in Portsmouth & Questions Mishandling of Layoff Notices,2020-10-09,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Calls for Reassessment of Layoffs at National Passport Center in Portsmouth & Questions Mishandling of Layoff Notices October 09, 2020 **The National Passport Center in Portsmouth is the nation's largest passport processing facility** SHAHEEN: The professional handling of these employees, some of whom have worked at these facilities for decades is a necessity to ensure the return of these experienced employees once demand for passports goes back to pre-pandemic levels. (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) called on Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to reassess the State Department's decision to cut the jobs of hundreds of contract employees working within the Office of Passport Services nationwide. A majority of the cuts will take place at the National Passport Center in Portsmouth, the nation's largest passport processing facility. In her letter, Shaheen urged Secretary Pompeo to reevaluate these job cuts and work to mitigate the effects on employees and their families. The number of contractors employed by Passport Services depends on passport demand, which has been severely curtailed by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Shaheen noted that this does not prevent the Department from informing staff or Congress of upcoming changes, writing, Employees affected by the most recent cuts should have been provided with more notice and a better explanation of severance opportunities. Unfortunately, only an initial group of Passport Services employees was provided with limited notice. A second round of employees lost their jobs suddenly and without appropriate warning. Furthermore, despite the unprecedented cuts, Congress was not informed in advance. Following a meeting with Shaheen's office last month, the Department asked a number of employees to return to work. However, Shaheen underscored her continuing concern with the lack of planning and order around staffing decisions at these passport processing facilities and highlighted the importance of adequately accommodating impacted employees. Mr. Secretary, the professional handling of these employees, some of whom have worked at these facilities for decades, is not only paramount to workplace morale, but it is a necessity to ensure the return of these experienced employees once demand for passports goes back to pre-pandemic levels. She concluded the letter by requesting further information on the Department's rehiring and recruitment plans and of any improvements that the Department is considering to its IT modernization strategy to better accommodate unforeseen circumstances and future emergencies impacting employees' ability to perform their jobs at passport processing facilities. The letter can be read in full here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-and-pappas-announce-1-million-for-sanbornville-water-infrastructure-project-through-nbrc_eda,"Shaheen, Hassan & Pappas Announce $1 Million for Sanbornville Water Infrastructure Project through NBRC & EDA",2020-10-09,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan & Pappas Announce $1 Million for Sanbornville Water Infrastructure Project through NBRC & EDA October 09, 2020 (Manchester, NH) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced today with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) that the Sanbornville precinct has been awarded $1 million in federal funding to support a comprehensive water infrastructure project that will replace more than two miles of water main piping and finance improvements to the area pump station. Together, these improvements will reduce the threat of temporary business closures due to a lack of water. This grant will be allocated through the Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) in coordination with the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC). The announcement follows efforts from Senator Shaheen, who, as lead Democrat on the Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, included language to appropriate federal resources that provide support for communities impacted by forest product closures. Aging and malfunctioning water infrastructure can cause costly damage and service disruptions that threaten the viability of small businesses and put the health and well-being of local residents at risk, said Senator Shaheen. I'm very pleased to see this new funding provided that will make a significant difference for Sanbornville residents. As this grant demonstrates, the NBRC and EDA play an important role in revitalizing and supporting infrastructure projects and economic development in communities throughout New Hampshire. That's why I'll continue to fight to secure the federal resources the NBRC and the EDA need to empower Granite State communities. I am pleased that Sanbornville has received this substantial federal grant to improve its water infrastructure and prevent disruptions to small businesses, Senator Hassan said. The Northern Border Regional Commission and the Economic Development Administration are important sources of funding for rural and underserved communities in New Hampshire, and I'll keep working to support these vital resources."" Modern water infrastructure that we can rely on to provide our families and our businesses with clean water is critical for any vibrant community,said Congressman Pappas.I am glad to see that the NBRC is continuing to deliver on its mission of supporting rural communities and strengthening our local economy, and I am thankful that the village of Sanbornville will see important infrastructure upgrades with these funds. Senator Shaheen,a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has led efforts in Congress thatsupport and investin the NBRC, and included her bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and expand the NBRC's reach in the Farm Bill that wassigned into law in 2018. With support from Rep. Kuster, the legislation expanded the NBRC to include Cheshire County and communities in Belknap County. Shaheen has also worked to includedlanguage to ensure portions of NBRC funds be directed to assist rural communities affected by past mill closures, as well as support new markets and the infrastructure needs of the forest products industry. In August, the delegation announcedthat New Hampshire agencies and organizations were awarded $4,443,428 by the NBRC.Earlier this year, Shaheenled a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakersrepresenting New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont and New York in a letter to congressional leadership calling for the inclusion of dedicated funding for the NBRC in COVID-19 relief legislation. The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth. During federal budget negotiations, Shaheen led successful efforts to prevent the EDA the agency administering this grant from being eliminated. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-introduces-new-legislation-to-invest-in-us-transportation-and-infrastructure-projects-that-bolster-energy-efficiency-efforts,Shaheen Introduces New Legislation to Invest in U.S. Transportation & Infrastructure Projects that Bolster Energy Efficiency Efforts,2020-10-08,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Introduces New Legislation to Invest in U.S. Transportation & Infrastructure Projects that Bolster Energy Efficiency Efforts October 08, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced new legislation that would improve the energy efficiency of the U.S. transportation sector, modernize aging infrastructure, reduce harmful pollution and boost America's competitiveness in the global marketplace. Specifically, Shaheen's new legislation the Better Utilizing Innovative Low-Emission Development Strategies (BUILDS) Act would create a competitive infrastructure grant program within the U.S. Department of Transportation to (DOT) fund innovative projects that promote energy efficiency while meeting significant transportation needs. It's long past time for bipartisan progress to repair our crumbling roads, rails and bridges, said Shaheen. The BUILDS Act is a common-sense proposal that invests in local transportation and infrastructure needs in both rural and urban communities which would be a boon for projects in every corner of the Granite State while also reducing our carbon footprint. I urge members on both sides of the aisle to join me in this legislation to help address our aging infrastructure and incentivize our communities to pursue energy efficient solutions to build a safer, more sustainable future. The BUILDS Act would authorize $300 million annually to create an energy efficiency-focused national infrastructure investment initiative to modernize the nation's transportation infrastructure and reduce harmful GHG emissions. Specifically, the legislation would direct DOT to establish a competitive grant program to fund projects that: Promote reductions in transportation energy use; Accelerate the adoption of new and existing energy efficiency technologies for transportation applications; and Increase the availability of energy efficient modes of transportation for passengers or freight. Shaheen's legislation would apply to a variety of transportation modes, but the program would encourage the use of technologies that reduce transportation energy use and improve traffic management and non-motorized modes of transportation. Eligible applicants would include State, local and tribal governments as well as public entities with jurisdiction over, or expertise relating to, infrastructure in a region, including a transit agency. The legislation also calls for funding in a balanced way to address the needs of both urban and rural communities, ensuring funding (not less than 20 percent) is dedicated to advance projects in rural areas. TheBUILDS Act has been endorsed by a number of organizations, including: The American Society of Civil Engineers, Alliance to Save Energy, Union of Concerned Scientists and American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. Bill text of the legislation is available here. A one page summary of the bill is availablehere. Senator Shaheen has long fought to bring federal dollars back to New Hampshire to invest in critical transportation and infrastructure projects to fix Granite State roads, rail, bridges and ports. Last year, Shaheen reintroduced legislation, theStrengthen and Fortify Existing (SAFE) Bridges Actto begin to address the more than 47,000 structurally deficient bridges across the country. A senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen has historically secured federal funding for the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant program formerly known as the TIGER Grant program. In fiscal year 2020 government funding legislation, Shaheen helped boost funding for the BUILD Grant program by $100 million, totaling $1 billion for fiscal year (FY) 2020.Last November, Shaheenannounced a $12 millionBUILD grant for a NHDOT bridge project on the Connecticut River. Senator Shaheen is a champion of efforts that invest in sustainability and promote energy efficiency. Shaheen hasintroduced widely praised bipartisan legislationwith Senator Rob Portman (R-OH) to save American homes and businesses billions of dollars in energy costs and dramatically reduce the United States' carbon footprint. Senator Shaheen recently introduced a bipartisan Senate resolution designating yesterday, October 7th, Energy Efficiency Day. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-leads-bipartisan-letter-to-house-and-senate-armed-services-committee-leadership-urging-inclusion-of-pfas-provisions-in-final-fy21-ndaa,Shaheen Leads Bipartisan Letter to House & Senate Armed Services Committee Leadership Urging Inclusion of PFAS Provisions in Final FY21 NDAA,2020-10-08,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Leads Bipartisan Letter to House & Senate Armed Services Committee Leadership Urging Inclusion of PFAS Provisions in Final FY21 NDAA October 08, 2020 Shaheen Boosted Funding for PFAS Health Impact Study to $15M in Senate-Approved FY21 NDAA, Highest Funding Level Ever to Continue Study She Established in FY18 Defense Bill (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, led a bipartisan letter on behalf of 20 Senators yesterday to Senate and House Armed Services Committee leadership urging the inclusion of several provisions in the final fiscal year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to prevent and address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination. The NDAA is annual defense legislation that authorizes the United States' national defense programs and priorities for the fiscal year. The Senate and House passed FY2021 defense bills earlier this year and leadership from both committees are currently negotiating a final version of the bill to be considered by both chambers of Congress before going to the President to be signed into law. In their letter, the Senators underscored the adverse health effects tied to PFAS chemicals, two of which perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) have emerged as widespread contaminants to the drinking water sources of military bases across the country due to their use in aqueous firefighting foam (AFFF) used by the military. They cited the Department of Defense's PFAS Task Force report updating the count of military installations impacted by these materials from 401 to 651. The Senators also expressed concern about occupational exposure for firefighters in particular, who are more exposed to these chemicals through the use of firefighting foam, and also potentially through their personal protective equipment (PPE). They argued that the serious health implications tied to these chemicals coupled with unknown long-term health effects demands action from Congress and the attention of the Department of Defense. The Senators wrote, We acknowledge the ongoing efforts of the Department of Defense (DOD); however, additional action is needed to address the immediate concerns of citizens near these military bases who are desperate to know what exposure to these contaminants means for their health and the health of their families. The Senators closed their letter with a request for House and Senate committee leadership to include a number of provisions, most of which are led by Senator Shaheen, in the FY21 NDAA to confront PFAS contamination at military installations in our communities. These provisions include Shaheen's amendment to the Senate bill that authorizes $15 million to continue the PFAS health impact study she established in the FY2018 defense bill, as well as provision that mirrors Shaheen's standalone legislation and would require PFAS blood testing for service members during their annual periodic health assessment (PHA) if it is determined they were stationed at one of the more than 600 military installations contaminated by PFAS. The Senators requested that this provision not only be retained in the final bill, but that it be expanded as Shaheen's legislation does to include testing for military families and veterans who served on contaminated bases. The Senators also requested that the defense bill include a measure spearheaded by Shaheen that would authorize a comprehensive study of firefighters' PPE to determine the prevalence and concentration of PFAS and also establishes a federal grant program to advance development of safe alternatives to PFAS chemicals in PPE, which is based on Shaheen's standalone legislation with Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO). The Senators closed their letter by urging the conference committee to include a measure that modifies the authority for environmental restoration projects of the National Guard and provides technical corrections to ensure restoration of contamination by PFOS and PFOA, as well as a provision that would require the Secretary of Defense to evaluate available firefighting technologies or substances to be adapted for use by DOD to facilitate the phase-out of firefighting foam that contains PFAS chemicals. Last year, Senator Shaheen successfully included a provision in the FY2020 NDAA that will phase out the use of PFAS in DOD firefighting foams and prohibit its use in the military after October 1, 2024. That provision also requires the military to publish a new firefighting foam military specification by January 1, 2023 and ensure it is available for use by October 1, 2023. Their letter can be read in full here. In addition to Senator Shaheen, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tina Smith (D-MN), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Bob Casey (D-PA). SenatorShaheenhas spearheaded efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to PFAS contamination, respond to the chemical exposure and remediate polluted sites. In this year's NDAA that cleared the Senate, Senator Shaheen worked to direct the Department of Defense to explore PFAS destruction technology.In last year's NDAA that was signed into law, Senator Shaheen includedher legislation with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK)that would require the DOD to include blood testing for PFAS as part of routine physicals for military firefighters. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-calls-for-additional-visas-for-afghan-interpreters-and-support-staff-in-annual-defense-bill,Shaheen Calls for Additional Visas For Afghan Interpreters & Support Staff in Annual Defense Bill,2020-10-07,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Calls for Additional Visas For Afghan Interpreters & Support Staff in Annual Defense Bill October 07, 2020 **Shaheen calls for 4,000 additional Afghan Special Immigrant Visas for those whose lives are in danger for supporting the U.S. mission** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, sent a letter to Senate and House Armed Services Committee leaders urging them to authorize an additional 4,000 Afghan Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) in the fiscal year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that is currently being negotiated by Senate and House conferees. The letter was also signed by U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS). The SIV program has been critical to American national security and the U.S. mission in Afghanistan, allowing Afghans who have supported and saved the lives of American service members and diplomatic personnel in Afghanistan to escape life-threatening situations as a result of their work supporting Americans. Shaheen wrote, Through this program, the United States is able to demonstrate our commitment to those who put themselves at riskencouraging others in Afghanistan and worldwide to do the same for our troops and diplomatic corps. If Congress fails to authorize these additional visas, thousands of Afghans in the application pipeline or otherwise eligible to apply will be in jeopardy. The letter can be read in full here. Senator Shaheenis a leader in Congress in support of the Afghan SIV program. In this year's annual defense legislation that cleared the Senate, she worked to include language that prioritized the reauthorization of Afghan SIVs. Shaheenhas led bipartisan effortsin Congress to approve and secure additional Afghan SIVs, and historically partnered with the late Senator John McCain (R-AZ) on this effort. Last year, Shaheenintroduced new bipartisan legislationthat would reauthorize 4,000 Afghan SIVs. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-lankford-and-king-introduce-bipartisan-drive-less-act-to-reduce-federal-spending-on-government-vehicles-save-taxpayer-money,"Shaheen, Lankford & King Introduce Bipartisan ‘DRIVE LESS’ Act to Reduce Federal Spending on Government Vehicles, Save Taxpayer Money",2020-10-07,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Lankford & King Introduce Bipartisan DRIVE LESS' Act to Reduce Federal Spending on Government Vehicles, Save Taxpayer Money October 07, 2020 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), James Lankford (R-OK) and Angus King (I-ME) reintroduced their bipartisan legislation to save taxpayer dollars by reducing the federal funding available for the acquisition and leasing of new federal vehicles. The Domestic Reduction In Vehicle Expenditure and Lowering Emissions from State Sources Act, or the DRIVE LESS Act, aims to significantly improve federal agencies' fleet management by establishing standards for vehicle utilization and mechanisms to get agencies to comply with them. The U.S. government maintains one of the largest fleets of automotive vehicles in the world. In 2019, U.S. agencies owned or leased a total of 645,047 vehicles, including 224,227 passenger vehicles and 412,488 trucks. Overall, the maintenance, leasing, depreciation and fuel for all of these cars and trucks comes at a cost to taxpayers of over $4.3 billion. Despite this huge inventory, many of these vehicles are underutilized, suggesting the federal government could substantially reduce its fleet size without harm to agencies' missions. On average, a vehicle in the government's fleet was driven just under 7,000 miles in 2019, while the average truck was driven fewer than 6,000 miles. Taxpayers shouldn't be footing the bill for government agencies' unnecessary vehicle expenses, said Senator Shaheen. The government's bloated vehicle budget is a good example of where we can make smart, targeted cuts, and my bill makes sure the government takes better control of its wallet and only makes necessary vehicle purchases. This bipartisan legislation is a common-sense measure to reduce unnecessary government spending so we can focus our attention and federal resources on where they are needed most. Ten years ago the Simpson-Bowles Commission report recommended as part of its debt reduction proposals reducing the federal vehicle fleet budget by 20 percent, said Senator Lankford.Only in Washington can something so easy and so necessary take so long to accomplish. Today we moved another step closer by introducing the DRIVE LESS Act in the Senate. The American people should not be required to maintain the cost of the federal government's excessive vehicle stockpile. I'm hopeful the Senate seriously evaluates and considers this bipartisan, commonsense proposal. The federal budget is full of competing priorities, which can make for hard decisions, said Senator King. This is an easy one. The budget for federal vehicles is irresponsibly high, and by reducing the fleet we can save hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars. This is a bipartisan proposal, dating back a decade so let's stop talking about it, and actually implement this change. Specifically, the DRIVE LESS Act would direct the General Services Administration and Office of Management and Budget to establish uniform methods for agencies to: Determine the appropriate size of an agency's fleet; Decide whether it is more cost-effective to lease or purchase a vehicle; Assess vehicle utilization at the agency level; and Document the decision whether to keep a vehicle that is being underutilized. The legislation would also: Establish a government-wide minimum utilization rates of 12,000 miles annually for passenger vehicles and 10,000 for light trucks to help ensure each agency's fleet is being used as effectively and efficiently as possible; Require each agency to make publicly available all relevant information used to determine the appropriate size of its fleet and a clear justification for deviation from these minimum utilization rates; and Require the Inspector General of each agency to conduct an audit every two years of the agency's fleet management practices and adherence to these standards, which would be submitted to Congress and made publicly available. Bill text of the legislation is available here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-on-transfer-of-isis-terrorists-to-us-for-trial-a-giant-step-towards-justice,Shaheen on Transfer of ISIS Terrorists to U.S. for Trial: “A Giant Step Towards Justice”,2020-10-07,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen on Transfer of ISIS Terrorists to U.S. for Trial: A Giant Step Towards Justice October 07, 2020 (Washington, DC)U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement as ISIS terrorists known as the British Beatles are being flown to the United States to stand trial for murder of American citizens. Senator Shaheen has been working closely with the families of Americans killed by ISIS to make sure these terrorists are brought to trial in the United States. The families of James Foley, Peter Kassig, Steven Sotloff and Kayla Mueller have waited a long time for this today is a giant step towards justice, said Shaheen. These terrorists have been in legal limbo for years but thankfully that ambiguity is now over. The families of the Americans murdered by ISISfinallyhave their day in court on the horizon. Through a thorough trial with all evidence presented, the United States has an opportunity to deliver real justice and honor the memories of James, Peter, Steven and Kayla. Shaheen has ledcalls for this on behalf of the family members of James Foley, Peter Kassig, Steven Sotloff and Kayla Mueller, four Americans killed at the hands of ISIS jihadists. Shaheen successfully included language in last year's defense authorization legislation toestablisha senior coordinator position within the Executive Branch for all ISIS detainee issues. This position would lead all diplomatic engagements and planning regarding the future of ISIS detainees. In 2018, Senator Shaheentravelled to Syriato visit northeast Syria to view the detention facilities housing ISIS terrorists. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z