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/pappas-backed-bill-to-protect-social-security-benefits-to-become-law,Pappas-Backed Bill to Protect Social Security Benefits to Become Law,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Pappas helped lead the bipartisan effort to force a vote on this legislation in the House WASHINGTON, DC - On Friday night, the Senate passed legislation supported by Congressman Pappas (NH-01) which would safeguard the hard-earned Social Security benefits of millions of Americans. The Social Security Fairness Act, which Pappas fought to passed in November, would eliminate the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) that unfairly reduce or eliminate Social Security benefits for millions of Americans working in public service, including federal employees, police officers, firefighters, and educators. “Hard-working Americans deserve the earned benefits that they paid into, whether it is Social Security, a pension, or both,” said Congressman Pappas. “Yet, for over 40 years, the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset have been unfairly reducing or eliminating the Social Security benefits of public servants that have paid into the program. This bipartisan legislation will eliminate these provisions to fix this wrongdoing for our police, firefighters, teachers, postal workers, and all public servants who pay into Social Security and have a pension. I’m pleased that this bill has now passed the House and Senate with bipartisan support, and I urge the President to sign it into law.” Currently, the WEP reduces the earned Social Security benefits of an individual who also receives a public pension from a job not covered by Social Security. For example, educators who do not earn Social Security in public schools but who work part-time or during the summer in jobs covered by Social Security have reduced benefits, even though they pay into the system just like others. Likewise, the GPO affects the spousal benefits of people who work as federal, state, or local government employees, including police officers, firefighters, and educators, if the job is not covered by Social Security. The GPO reduces by two-thirds the benefit received by surviving spouses who also collect a government pension. The WEP currently impacts approximately 2 million Social Security beneficiaries, and the GPO impacts nearly 800,000 retirees. This bipartisan legislation is endorsed by the International Association of Firefighters, the National Association of Police Organizations, the American Postal Workers Union, and more.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-statement-on-vote-to-prevent-government-shutdown,Pappas Statement on Vote to Prevent Government Shutdown,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement after voting to pass legislation to prevent a government shutdown: “Today, I voted to keep our government open, fund vital services that Americans rely on, and safeguard the paychecks of our active duty and reserve military service members. I’m pleased that this legislation also provides badly needed disaster relief funds and supports American farmers. Moving forward, I remain committed to working in a bipartisan manner to meet the needs of New Hampshire families and address the pressing issues faced by Granite Staters.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-pushes-for-porch-pirates-crackdown-during-peak-gift-giving-season,Pappas Pushes for ‘Porch Pirates’ Crackdown During Peak Gift-Giving Season,2024-12-16,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"As Granite Staters eagerly await the delivery of gifts for friends and loved ones at the peak of holiday shopping season, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) is pushing Congress to pass the Porch Pirates Act of 2024 which would increase penalties for package theft and safeguard millions of dollars that New Hampshire residents lose each year to so-called “porch pirates.” Porch pirates stole 115 million packages in 2023, costing Americans an estimated $9 billion. A report last year by Forbes Homes ranked New Hampshire as the top state for packages being stolen from personal property - like a porch or driveway. Pappas supports the Porch Pirates Act of 2024, which would put in place the same penalties for the theft of packages from private carriers like FedEx and UPS that apply to the theft of United States Postal Service mail. “As we enter the height of the holiday gift-giving season and Granite Staters are receiving deliveries for gifts for their friends and loved ones, package theft remains a significant concern,” said Congressman Pappas, a member of the House Small Business Committee. “Last year, 115 million packages were stolen, costing families and businesses billions of dollars. To combat the rise in porch piracy, this bipartisan legislation will put in place the same federal penalties, whether a package was delivered by a private carrier or the U.S. Postal Service, and allow us to deter theft and help hold those responsible accountable. I urge Congress to take up and pass this common-sense legislation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-s-bipartisan-legislation-to-combat-fentanyl-crisis-crack-down-on-drug-trafficking-included-in-defense-authorization-bill,"Pappas’s Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Fentanyl Crisis, Crack Down on Drug Trafficking Included in Defense Authorization Bill",2024-12-13,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The bipartisan Destruction Initiative for Stored Precursors Overseas and Safe Enforcement (DISPOSE) Act, championed by Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), was included in the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2025 that the House passed this week. This bipartisan legislation would create fentanyl and precursor chemical destruction facilities in three critical drug trafficking choke points: Mexico, Colombia, and Peru. Fentanyl and other synthetic drugs have taken the lives of tens of thousands of Americans. This legislation deals with the problem by developing a strategy to locate, identify, and safely destroy fentanyl precursor chemicals before they reach the United States. “Strengthening our collaboration with partners in Latin America on drug interdiction efforts will help stop fentanyl and other deadly substances from flowing into our communities,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “The DISPOSE Act will establish centers in Mexico, Colombia, and Peru that identify and destroy fentanyl and precursor drugs, stopping these drugs before they reach American soil. I’ll continue to support efforts that hold drug traffickers accountable, keep our communities safe, and save lives.” Background: The DISPOSE Act establishes the Precursor Chemical Destruction Initiative to fight drug trafficking with our partners in the Western Hemisphere. Working directly with partner countries, the Initiative will: Increase rates of seizure and destruction of listed chemicals in beneficiary countries; Alleviate the backlog of seized chemicals and dispose them in an environmentally safe and effective manner; Ensure that the seized chemicals are not reintroduced into the illicit drug production network within beneficiary countries; Free up storage space for future chemical seizures within beneficiary countries; and Reduce the chemicals’ negative environmental impact.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-s-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-security-coordination-at-northern-border-included-in-defense-authorization-bill,Pappas’s Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Security Coordination at Northern Border Included in Defense Authorization Bill,2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas’s (NH-01) Securing Our Northern Border Act was included in the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2025 that the House passed yesterday. This bipartisan legislation would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish the Northern Border Mission Center to strengthen implementation and coordination of the Northern Border Strategy, which includes training, information sharing, intelligence, and engagement with federal, state, Tribal, local, and international government partners. In the Swanton Sector, which includes New Hampshire’s northern border, Border Patrol agents arrested almost 7,000 migrants trying to cross the border illegally between October 2023 and September 2024, more than the previous 12 Fiscal Years combined. “Strengthening operations at our northern border is critical to drug interdiction efforts and keeping our communities safe,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “This center will provide a central hub for implementing the Northern Border Strategy, including enforcing our immigration laws and stemming drug trafficking, and bolstering coordination efforts between U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel, local law enforcement, and other partners. I’m pleased that important legislation to do this was included in the annual national defense bill. I will continue to support investments in border security, law enforcement, and anti-smuggling technology.” The Securing Our Northern Border Act would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish the Northern Border Mission Center, to be collocated with an existing U.S. Border Patrol sector headquarters, an Air and Marine Operations Branch, and a U.S. Coast Guard air station. The Center would support implementation of the Northern Border Security Strategy, help to track Northern Border security metrics, serve as a training location for DHS personnel and as a testing grounds for new border security technologies. The legislation also requires Air and Marine Operations to maintain quick reaction capabilities at the Center to support the border security mission along the Northern Border, including against the rising threat of illegal cross-border drone activity. Background: Pappas has been an ardent supporter of bipartisan efforts to address America’s northern and southern border and has called on House Republican leadership to stop blocking the consideration of legislation to restore order and fix the U.S.’s immigration system that has been broken for decades. Pappas is a cosponsor of the Dignity Act, which is comprehensive, bipartisan legislation to address security and infrastructure challenges at the border, hire additional border patrol personnel, establish new pathways for asylum seekers, and create a path to citizenship. In September, Pappas introduced the bipartisan Improving Coordination for the Northern Border Act, which would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish the Northern Border Coordination Center to strengthen implementation and coordination of the Northern Border Strategy. In March, Pappas helped launch a new border security task force to focus on the need for comprehensive, bipartisan solutions to address the border and fix the broken immigration system. Later that month, Pappas helped to pass the fiscal year 2024 government funding package, which included a $3.2 billion increase in funding for Customs and Border Patrol (CPB), providing for a record 22,000 agents, including 150 counter-fentanyl officers, and needed investments in fentanyl detection equipment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-mann-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-recognizing-december-as-national-impaired-driving-prevention-month,"Pappas, Mann Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing December as “National Impaired Driving Prevention Month”",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, in coordination with the first day of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congressman Tracey Mann (KS-01) introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing December as “National Impaired Driving Prevention Month”. In the United States, someone is killed or injured in a drunk driving crash every 39 minutes, and an average drunk driver has driven drunk 80 times before their first arrest. Studies have shown that the use of ignition interlocks reduce recidivism by up to 70% in first-time, repeat, and high-risk offenders. In May, Pappas and Mann introduced the bipartisan End Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) Act of 2024, which would create a national ignition interlock standard by encouraging states to adopt mandatory first-time offender ignition interlock laws, helping reduce recidivism and improve road safety by ensuring fewer drunk drivers are on the road. Twenty-four states and D.C., including New Hampshire, already meet the standards outlined in this legislation. “Every life lost to impaired driving is a tragedy and a preventable death. We must do more to address drunk drinking and prevent repeated offenses,” said Congressman Pappas. “During this month, we raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving, support the prevention efforts of federal agencies and local law enforcement, and urge individuals to drive sober. I’ll keep working to pass legislation that will make roads safer for drivers, passengers, and everyone sharing our roads, including my End DWI Act.” “Every year, nearly 14,000 Americans lose their lives to impaired driving,” said Congressman Mann. “During National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, we can increase awareness and provide more resources that reduce these tragedies and save lives. I will continue to support legislation that aims to reduce recidivism like my End DWI Act and makes our roads and passengers safer.” “The SAFE Coalition applauds the leadership of Congressman Pappas and Congressman Mann to highlight December as Impaired Driving Prevention Month and for their leadership to pass the End DWI Act which would improve the nation’s DUI laws and save thousands of lives,” said Brandy Nannini, Board Member of the SAFE Coalition. “Drunk driving is the #1 cause of death on U.S. roadways, and yet it is 100 percent preventable. This holiday season and throughout the year, we urge Americans to make a plan for returning home safely if alcohol is part of your celebration. Always designate a sober driver, use rideshare or public transportation andeducate yourself on how alcohol impairs your ability to drive.” “Every day we lose parents, siblings, friends and loved ones to impaired driving. These individual tragedies represent a national crisis which is completely preventable. This critical resolution to recognize Impaired Driving Prevention Month is an important step in raising awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence. The National Safety Council applauds Reps. Pappas and Mann for their bipartisan leadership to ensure our roads are safe for all,” said Lorraine Martin, President and CEO, National Safety Council.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-statement-on-house-passage-of-defense-authorization-bill,Pappas Statement on House Passage of Defense Authorization Bill,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the below statement following the House vote to pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2025: “As America continues to confront challenges across the globe, it is essential we reauthorize our national defense. This legislation will provide our dedicated service members with the pay raise they deserve and help save lives by taking on the trafficking of deadly drugs like fentanyl. The hundreds of bipartisan provisions in this bill will strengthen our defense, boost New Hampshire’s economy, and improve our service members quality of life.” “However, I share the frustration of many, including the Republican Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, that this process was politicized by House leadership in unprecedented ways. It’s regrettable that Speaker Johnson forced the inclusion of unnecessary riders in this bill that would put LGBTQ+ youth at risk by taking away their ability to seek health care and make decisions with their families and doctors. I urge the Speaker to shift his attention to the issues the American people have asked us to focus on: strengthening our economy, lowering costs, and keeping our nation safe."" New Hampshire priorities in the bill include: Provisions enacting Pappas’s Securing our Northern Border Act, bipartisan legislation that will fortify the northern border and improve interagency coordination to stem the flow of fentanyl and other narcotics coming across the border. Provisions enacting the DISPOSE Act, bipartisan legislation Pappas helped introduce to improve counter narcotics coordination between the United States, Mexico, Colombia, and Peru by establishing new multilateral efforts to identify and securely dispose of precursor chemicals used to make fentanyl and fentanyl-related-substances. A pay raise for New Hampshire servicemembers, including the largest pay raise for junior servicemembers in more than 25 years, specifically authorizing a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers and a 4.5% pay raise for all other servicemembers. Support for our national security and New Hampshire’s economy by authorizing $33.5 billion in shipbuilding funding and the procurement of seven battle force ships, including a Virginia-class submarine. Supporting our servicemembers and their families by authorizing $377 million for new housing and child development centers and making pay for child care staff at DoD childcare centers competitive with private industry. These provisions will help the child care development center at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard improve its infrastructure as well as staff recruitment and retention. Help for servicemembers transitioning to civilian life by improving the Skill Bridge program specifically through increasing the number of private sector apprenticeships available to retiring servicemembers, helping more New Hampshire businesses participate in the program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-pappas-s-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-post-disaster-services-protect-taxpayer-dollars,"House Passes Pappas’s Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Post-Disaster Services, Protect Taxpayer Dollars",2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today the House passed Congressman Chris Pappas’s (NH-01) bipartisan bill to ensure post-disaster services are delivered timely and taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently, cutting down on waste and fraud. It has passed the Senate and is headed to the President’s desk for his signature. The Disaster Contract Improvement Act would establish oversight on debris removal through the creation of an Advisory Working Group and task the Federal Emergency Management Office (FEMA) Administrator with implementing guidance and procedures for debris removal contracts. “New Hampshire is no stranger to extreme weather, from intense winter storms to severe flooding. It’s critical that we ensure post-disaster services are ready and taxpayer dollars are being used efficiently,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “This bipartisan legislation will strengthen preparation and recovery efforts to help those affected by natural disasters by tackling spending waste and fraud and improving government efficiency. Now that the bill has passed the House and the Senate, I urge the President to sign it into law swiftly.” The Advisory Working Group created by this bill would be composed of representatives from FEMA, the Army Corps of Engineers, State, Tribal, and Local governments, the USDA natural resources and Conservation Service, as well as experts, including those in the debris services contractor industry. The FEMA Administrator, working with this new group, would have one year after the bill's enactment to develop and implement guidance and procedures associated with the debris removal contracts. Background: Following Hurricane Katrina, Congress required FEMA to establish advance contracts for goods and services to enable the government to quickly and effectively mobilize resources in the aftermath of a disaster. FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers used advance contracts for $4.5 billion in goods and services after Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, and the California fires of 2017. In an audit report released in 2018, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that FEMA's guidance on the use of these types of contracts is unclear, and that inconsistent information from FEMA could impair its efforts to help state and local governments use advance contracts.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-urges-baxter-international-to-increase-supply-and-reliability-of-iv-fluid-amid-shortage,NH Delegation Urges Baxter International to Increase Supply and Reliability of IV Fluid Amid Shortage,2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today the New Hampshire delegation sent a letter to Baxter International urging it to address IV fluid supply issues in the state by improving the reliability of shipments and increasing the amount of IV fluid delivered to New Hampshire health care providers. Following damages to Baxter’s IV fluid and dialysis solutions production facility in North Carolina during Hurricane Helene, New Hampshire hospitals, doctors, and paramedics have worked diligently to extend their existing supplies of IV fluid to prevent service disruptions. The letter urges Baxter to provide New Hampshire providers with accurate information on what IV supplies will be delivered to the state. In part the delegation wrote, “In recent weeks, Baxter International has repeatedly failed to deliver the amount of IV supplies that they have promised to our hospitals, and our frontline health care providers have reported a dwindling inventory of IV fluids that threatens to disrupt surgical services for Granite State patients. We are requesting immediate action from Baxter to provide an updated timeline for delivery of IV fluid for the state.” The delegation continued, “While we understand distribution is a complex process, given reports that IV fluid deliveries are unreliable, Baxter must take steps to increase the amount of IV fluid delivered to New Hampshire and improve the reliability of these shipments. This matter is especially urgent as the winter season approaches when providers need an increased supply of IV solution to meet the usual surge in complex care during the colder months.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-joins-bipartisan-group-calling-for-passage-of-bipartisan-legislation-to-crack-down-on-xylazine,Pappas Joins Bipartisan Group Calling for Passage of Bipartisan Legislation to Crack Down on Xylazine,2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined a bipartisan coalition of House members in calling for urgent passage of his bipartisan Combating Illicit Xylazine Act. Xylazine, also known as “tranq,” is an easily accessible veterinary tranquilizer that is being used as a low-cost cutting agent for fentanyl. Since it is not an opioid, its effects cannot be reversed by naloxone. The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy has designated fentanyl combined with xylazine as an “emerging threat.” This bipartisan legislation would schedule this dangerous drug and give law enforcement the tools they need to go after traffickers while protecting access for veterinarians, farmers, cattlemen, and ranchers who use xylazine to treat large animals. “Congress has the power to revise current statute to protect communities, preserve legitimate access to veterinary medicine and human medical research, and safeguard our critical livestock industry,” wrote the Members. “As bipartisan cosponsors of the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act, we stand united in the need to address this urgent threat. Illicit xylazine is too great a crisis to wait any longer, and we urge the inclusion of this updated bipartisan, bicameral version of the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act in end-of-year legislation.” The bill currently has 101 cosponsors in the House of Representatives and is endorsed by 39 state attorneys general, major law enforcement organizations, and veterinary organizations. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (NV), Chuck Grassley (IA), and Maggie Hassan (NH) are leading companion legislation in the Senate.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-s-bill-to-designate-chief-michael-maloney-post-office-in-greenland-passes-house,Pappas’s Bill to Designate ‘Chief Michael Maloney Post Office’ in Greenland Passes House,2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) led the House in passing legislation to designate the U.S. Postal Service facility located at 609 Portsmouth Avenue in Greenland, New Hampshire, as the Chief Michael Maloney Post Office, in honor of the late Chief Michael Maloney who served as a law enforcement officer for 26 years, including 12 as the Chief of the Greenland Police Department before he was tragically killed in the line of duty. Ahead of the vote, Pappas delivered remarks on the House floor to honor the life and legacy of Police Chief Michael Maloney, to share the impact he had on his community and the officers he oversaw, and to urge his colleagues to support this legislation. “Chief Maloney was a dedicated public servant, community leader, and law enforcement professional who served his country in the Army Reserves, as well as his state as a police officer, rising to the rank of Chief of the Greenland Police Department in 2000,” said Congressman Pappas. “Tragically, in 2012, Chief Maloney was killed in the line of duty, just eight days before his retirement. To this day, he is remembered as someone with a ‘bigger than life’ personality and who cared deeply about his community and worked with purpose and passion each and every day to make it safer and stronger. It is a small token of our thanks and appreciation to name this Post Office in Chief Michael Maloney’s honor to remind future generations of that legacy and of his tremendous service and ultimate sacrifice on behalf of the community he loved."" Chief Michael Maloney served as an law enforcement officer for 26 years, including 12 as the Chief of the Greenland Police Department. He grew up in North Hampton and was a graduate of Winnacunnet High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the Army Reserves and served as a drill inspector, graduated from the New Hampshire Police Academy, and received his bachelor’s in criminal justice from Hesser College. To begin his 26-year career in law enforcement, he started as a part-time officer in Rye; he then joined North Hampton Police Department as a full-time officer, where he was promoted to Chief of Police in 1997. In 2000, he became the Chief of the Greenland Police Department where he served until he was killed in the line of duty on April 12, 2012, just 8 days before retirement, while participating in a drug raid operation with the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force. Before being fatally wounded, he pulled wounded officers to safety and sent them to the Portsmouth Regional Hospital. Chief Maloney received recognitions including: Fraternal Order of Police Medal of Honor; New Hampshire Chiefs of Police Medal of Honor; Medal of Honor by the town of Greenland, NH; New England Chiefs of Police Association Medal of Valor; Career Achievement award from the New Hampshire Congressional Law Enforcement Panel.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-announces-265000-to-help-nh-businesses-adopt-pollution-prevention-practices,"Pappas Announces $265,000 to Help NH Businesses Adopt Pollution Prevention Practices",2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in announcing that the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) has been selected to receive $265,000 in grants to provide technical assistance to businesses to develop and adopt pollution prevention (P2) practices in local communities. The NHDES will provide P2 technical assistance to New Hampshire’s craft beverage sector with an emphasis on reducing environmental and health impacts for businesses and disadvantaged communities. As part of the BetterBev New England Green Craft Beverage Recognition Program, NHDES will continue to work with other New England P2 technical assistance providers to assist craft beverage producers in implementing environmentally friendly practices which save energy, conserve water, minimize wastewater, avoid toxic or hazardous chemicals, and reduce greenhouse gasses. “Pollution prevention means stopping pollution at the source and protecting the health of our families, communities, and environment,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “Thanks to the bipartisan infrastructure law, which I fought to pass, this grant will provide businesses with federal resources to craft and adopt pollution prevention practices, reducing their costs and safeguarding our water, land, and air.” “I’m pleased to see this funding come to New Hampshire to help our businesses and industry take meaningful steps to prevent pollution right at the source,” said U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “Through energy efficiency, water conservation and other pollution reduction strategies, this program helps businesses save money while benefitting the broader community.” “We all have a role to play in mitigating pollution and preserving our environment for future generations to enjoy,”said Congresswoman Annie Kuster. “I’m deeply appreciative of the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to lowering costs for Granite State families and businesses by empowering them to address pollution at its sources, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact the P2 program continues to have on the well-being of our communities and environment.” “Every community deserves clean air, safe water, and a healthy environment—and pollution prevention grants help achieve that by reducing waste at the source. By adopting smarter and innovative practices that limit the use of toxic materials and conserve resources, these investments are helping our partners to support New England businesses to cut costs, grow sustainably, and protect the environment,” said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, together we’re creating lasting benefits for local economies and ensuring that environmental progress and economic growth go hand in hand and reach all communities, including those that need it most. That's Investing in America.” “The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services is pleased to be a recipient of EPA grant funds to continue work with craft food and beverage facilities to help foster these important local industries while reducing their environmental footprint,” said New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Commissioner Robert R. Scott. Pollution prevention, also known as P2 or source reduction, is any practice that reduces, eliminates, or prevents pollution at its source prior to recycling, treatment, or disposal. Preventing pollution at the source rather than managing waste afterwards is an important way to support American business’ efforts to reduce costs, while protecting communities from exposure to toxic chemicals and conserving natural resources. These practices are essential for protecting health, improving environmental conditions–including in and around disadvantaged communities–and preserving natural resources like wetlands, groundwater sources, and other critical ecosystems.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-helps-welcome-10-million-in-federal-funding-to-help-nh-communities-address-environmental-justice-challenges,Pappas Helps Welcome $10 Million in Federal Funding to Help NH Communities Address Environmental Justice Challenges,2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in announcing that the University of Connecticut’s (UConn) Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center (TCTAC) is open and accepting requests from communities and organizations across New England for technical assistance to help address local environmental justice challenges. In New Hampshire, UConn will partner with various organizations to engage with local communities. This is one of 17 TCTACs across the country and was awarded $10 million to support this work for five years. This TCTAC will provide critical support to overburdened communities in New Hampshire and across New England. The assistance will help local communities navigate the federal grant application process, strengthen their capacity for community engagement, and ensure they can benefit from funding opportunities from the Inflation Reduction Act and bipartisan infrastructure law. “I fought to pass the bipartisan infrastructure law and the Inflation Reduction Act to deliver federal resources to New Hampshire communities,” said U.S. Representative Chris Pappas. “This technical assistance center will improve access to these resources for environmental and health challenges that our underserved and rural communities continue to face. I’ll keep working to cut red tape for federal resources that address the needs of Granite Staters and help our communities grow and thrive.” “We must continue working to break down the barriers that rural and other underserved communities face when applying for and receiving federal funding, which is why programs like Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers (TCTAC) are so critical,” says U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “Granite State communities should not hesitate to utilize this resource from EPA Region 1 that will help bring more federal dollars to those that need it the most.” “You shouldn’t need an advanced degree to navigate and access federal funding opportunities,” said U.S. Representative Annie Kuster. “UCONN’s designation as a regional technical assistance center will help empower often underserved communities all across New Hampshire and New England by providing training and other assistance to build capacity for navigating federal grant application systems, setting them up for success in the years to come.” “Too often, communities with the most pressing environmental justice concerns have been left behind due to barriers in accessing federal funding,” said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “UConn’s technical assistance center is a game-changer for New England and will provide greater access to services to ensure overburdened and underserved communities and our Tribal nations can access historic investments to address generational environmental and health disparities.” “As Connecticut’s flagship university, UConn takes pride in service to our communities and helping to prepare them for the environmental challenges they face in the present and the future,” says Pamir Alpay, UConn Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship. “With the EPA’s generous support, we are proud to extend our expertise and resourcefulness to support environmental justice throughout the cities, towns, and Tribes of New England.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-leads-hellenic-caucus-in-introducing-oxi-day-resolution-0,Pappas Leads Hellenic Caucus in Introducing Oxi Day Resolution,2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), co-chair of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus, is leading bipartisan members of the Hellenic Caucus in introducing a resolution to designate October 28th as Oxi Day. On October 28, 1940 Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas refused to surrender to Axis forces, answering ""Oxi!"" - or ""No!"" - to Italian dictator Benito Mussolini's 3 A.M. ultimatum that he allow Axis forces to freely enter Greece or face war. Prime Minister Metaxas' refusal to relent to fascism sparked a national resistance movement and Greece ultimately became the first country to repel the Axis invasion. Greece's resistance required Nazi forces to delay their invasion of Russia to intervene in the Greco-Italian War, a delay which caused the Nazi regime to face a brutal Russian winter which hindered their advance and ultimately led to their eventual defeat. “84 years ago, the Greek people demonstrated unprecedented bravery and determination in their refusal to bow to the Axis Powers during World War II. Decades later, we continue to recognize how this monumental decision shaped history,” said Congressman Pappas. “As a proud Greek-American, I’m honored to lead this resolution to honor Greece’s role in defending democracy during World War II and our shared commitment to standing up to those that violate another nation’s sovereignty.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-joins-epa-in-announcing-nearly-35-million-for-water-infrastructure-in-new-hampshire,NH Delegation Joins EPA in Announcing Nearly $35 Million for Water Infrastructure in New Hampshire,2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today the New Hampshire delegation joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in announcing $35 million for New Hampshire in new funding under the bipartisan infrastructure law to upgrade water infrastructure and keep communities safe. “Our drinking water and waste water systems in New Hampshire require investment and modernization to serve the needs of Granite Staters. That is why I fought to pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to deliver these federal resources to New Hampshire,” said U.S. Representative Chris Pappas. “I’ll keep fighting to ensure this law benefits Granite Staters by delivering clean drinking water, protecting our environment, and helping our communities and economy grow for the future.” ""The health and vitality of Granite State communities depend on clean water,” said U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “As a lead negotiator of the water provisions of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I'm thrilled to see this funding headed to New Hampshire to strengthen our wastewater infrastructure, address forever chemicals and keep our lakes and rivers clean."" “Every Granite Stater deserves safe, clean drinking water, and this new $34 million in funding for New Hampshire through the bipartisan infrastructure law will help make that possible for more families,” said U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan. “I helped negotiate and pass into law this historic infrastructure package to help deliver results for our communities, and I am pleased to see these continued investments flowing to New Hampshire to upgrade our water systems and protect public health.” “Safe, clean water is essential to the health and well-being of our communities, our economy, and our way of life,” said U.S. Representative Annie Kuster. “With these resources made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, New Hampshire will be able to make critical improvements to our state’s water infrastructure, protect our freshwater ecosystems, and ensure more families and businesses have access to clean drinking water.” “Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity. When our water infrastructure fails, it threatens people’s health, peace of mind, and the environment,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s historic investment in water, EPA is working with states and local partners to upgrade infrastructure and address local challenges—from lead in drinking water, to PFAS, to water main breaks, to sewer overflows and climate resilience. Together, we are creating good-paying jobs while ensuring that all people can rely on clean and safe water.” “Clean, reliable water is at the heart of every thriving community. Yet too many communities—especially those overburdened by pollution or left behind by past investments—face challenges accessing the resources they need to upgrade water infrastructure,"" said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. ""Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, we are delivering transformative funding to support local solutions to water issues, from fixing aging infrastructure to addressing emerging contaminants like PFAS. These investments don’t just protect public health and reduce pollution in waterways; they also create good-paying jobs and help communities become more resilient for the future.” These bipartisan infrastructure law funds will flow through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF), a long-standing federal-state water investment partnership. This multibillion-dollar investment will fund state-run, low-interest loan programs that address key challenges in financing water infrastructure. Today’s announcement includes allotments for bipartisan infrastructure law Clean Water General Supplemental funds for New Hampshire ($24,867,000), Emerging Contaminant funds ($2,146,000), and $7,640,000 under the Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant Fund.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-introduces-multi-state-worker-tax-fairness-act,Pappas Introduces Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act,2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week, Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01), Jim Himes (CT-04), and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) introduced the Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act. This bill establishes a uniform standard for taxing income based on physical presence in a state. In doing so, the bill prohibits a state from taxing a nonresident’s income earned when the individual was not physically in that state. “Every dollar hard-working Granite Staters can keep in their pocket matters, and workers must be protected from unfair, out-of-state taxes,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “The Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act would protect individuals who telework for a company in a state different from the one they reside in from over-taxation. I will continue to fight for tax fairness for all.” “Despite a pandemic-driven surge in telework, conflicting state tax rules still burden employees and discourage working from home,” said Congressman Jim Himes. “There is no good reason why residents of Connecticut who work from home offices in Connecticut should be paying taxes to any other state. It is time to modernize our laws to support an evolving workforce and protect Americans from unfair over-taxation.” “The Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act is essential for cutting taxes and ensuring people in New Jersey keep more of their hard-earned dollars where they belong — in their own pockets,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer. “By clarifying that they should only pay taxes to the state where they live and work, we’re not just protecting their financial well-being — we’re ensuring they aren’t double taxed by a state they don’t even set foot in.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-law-enforcement-operations-at-the-southern-border,Pappas Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Law Enforcement Operations at the Southern Border,2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), and Susie Lee (NV-03)introduced the bipartisan Advanced Border Coordination Act to strengthen law enforcement operations and collaboration at the southern border. Building off the successes of state-run fusion centers, this legislation would establish Joint Operation Centers along the southern border to serve as centralized operating hubs tasked with coordinating border operations, information sharing, and workforce training. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has periodically established joint operations hubs to help multiple law enforcement agencies work together to strengthen border security and crack down on transnational criminal activity. “Strengthening border operations coordination will bolster efforts to crack down on drug trafficking, help enforce our immigration laws, and keep our communities safe. I’m helping introduce the Advanced Border Coordination Act, which will do just that,” said Congressman Pappas. “This bipartisan bill would establish joint centers along the southern border to serve as centralized hubs to coordinate border operations between Border Patrol personnel and federal, state, and local law enforcement. I’ll keep fighting to support the work of our law enforcement, provide them the resources they need, and address the root causes of the issues at the southern border.” The Advanced Border Coordination Act would help address these national security concerns by: Directing DHS to establish at least two joint operations centers along the southern border. These hubs would help law enforcement from multiple Federal, State, local and Tribal agencies coordinate their efforts and better work together. Requiring these centralized hubs to serve as resources to improve field operations and intelligence sharing, help detect and deter criminal activity like drug and human trafficking, and support workforce development and training coordination between participating agencies. Directing the DHS Secretary to issue an annual report to Congress on the centers’ operational activities and recommendations for coordinated federal actions at the southern border. Participating agencies would include DHS, the Department of Defense, the Department of Justice, other federal agencies as the DHS Secretary determines appropriate, and state, local, and tribal agencies that voluntarily choose to participate. The bill has been endorsed by the National Border Patrol Council, National Immigration Forum, the Texas Border Coalition, and the Major Cities Chiefs Association. A companion bill was previously introduced in the Senate by Senators Cortez-Masto (D-NV) and Blackburn (R-TN). Background: Pappas has been an ardent supporter of bipartisan efforts to address America’s northern and southern border and has called on House Republican leadership to stop blocking the consideration of legislation to restore order and fix the U.S.’s immigration system that has been broken for decades. Pappas is a cosponsor of the Dignity Act, which is comprehensive, bipartisan legislation to address security and infrastructure challenges at the border, hire additional border patrol personnel, establish new pathways for asylum seekers, and create a path to citizenship. In March, Pappas helped launch a new border security task force to focus on the need for comprehensive, bipartisan solutions to address the border and fix the broken immigration system. Later that month, Pappas helped to pass the fiscal year 2024 government funding package, which included a $3.2 billion increase in funding for Customs and Border Patrol (CPB), providing for a record 22,000 agents, including 150 counter-fentanyl officers, and needed investments in fentanyl detection equipment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/shaheen-pappas-acting-secretary-of-labor-su-visit-child-care-facility-host-roundtable-on-child-care-and-workforce-challenges,"Shaheen, Pappas, Acting Secretary of Labor Su Visit Child Care Facility, Host Roundtable on Child Care and Workforce Challenges",2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, visited A Place to Grow and hosted a roundtable discussion at the facility to discuss the first U.S. Department of Labor approved apprenticeship program for early childhood education operations managers and a new report emphasizing the importance of care workers. Photos from the event can be found here. “The cost of child care remains among the most pressing issues that families are facing. That’s why providing every federal resource available to families and child care providers in New Hampshire is critical,” said Congressman Pappas. “I’ll keep fighting to cap the amount of money that families pay for child care, strengthen our child care and education workforce, and expand the Child Tax Credit, a middle-class tax cut that helps families keep more of their hard-earned money in their pockets. I was grateful to join Acting Secretary Su, Senator Shaheen, and A Place To Grow owner Jennifer Legere today to hear from folks on the ground doing this work.” “I’ve met with child care providers across New Hampshire and all of them have underscored the challenges they face with workforce recruitment and retention,” said Senator Shaheen. “Without affordable child care options, families, the workforce and the overall economic development of our communities suffer. That’s why I was so pleased to join Acting Secretary Su in visiting A Place to Grow where their innovative, new Registered Apprenticeship program for early childhood education administrators provides the training and pathways needed to get workers into the child care industry and keep them there.” “Paid care work is critical economic infrastructure in this country, because safe and dependable care allows working parents and other caregivers to get and keep their jobs while also ensuring safe, quality working conditions for workers who take care of our loved ones,” said Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su. “The Biden-Harris administration is making once-in-a-generation investments creating good jobs and know that without the care economy and all of the talented care workers we have in this country, our economy suffers. I am glad to be in New Hampshire today to highlight this forward-looking program.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-demands-action-on-broken-surveillance-cameras-at-southern-border,Pappas Demands Action on Broken Surveillance Cameras at Southern Border,2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Following NBC News’s reporting that 30% of the cameras in Border Patrol's main surveillance system are broken, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) demanded that U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas immediately address this security lapse to restore real-time border monitoring and ensure border security. A recently circulated Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) internal memo indicated that nearly one-third, approximately 150 out of 500, of its Remote Video Surveillance Systems cameras are not functioning. In the letter, Pappas expressed significant concerns about the delay in addressing CBP’s broken cameras, writing, “If left unresolved, this issue could undermine CBP’s ability to safeguard our borders, impede efforts to interdict fentanyl and other illicit substances, and endanger the safety and security of communities along our borders.” He continued, “It is unacceptable that such a significant portion of CBP’s surveillance infrastructure is offline, and worse, that the agency is unaware of how long this situation has persisted. These gaps in surveillance create blind spots that could be exploited by terrorists, drug and human traffickers, and other threats to national security.” Noting Republican leadership’s refusal to allow a vote on the Senate’s bipartisan border security bill that would support CBP personnel, Pappas wrote, “Despite the urgency of the situation at the border, Republican leadership has refused to allow a vote on the Senate’s bipartisan border security bill to address the issues along the southern border, which would provide much needed resources to our border patrol personnel and support their work to restore order and address security.” Concluding, he demanded action from DHS, “I request a briefing within the next two weeks to discuss CBP’s internal memo, its procedures for monitoring and addressing security gaps, how these lapses are assessed for national security risks, and the agency’s plans and timeline for restoring full camera functionality.” Read the full letter here. Background: Pappas has been an ardent supporter of bipartisan efforts to address America’s northern and southern border and has called on House Republican leadership to stop blocking the consideration of legislation to restore order and fix the U.S.’s immigration system that has been broken for decades. Pappas is a cosponsor of the Dignity Act, which is comprehensive, bipartisan legislation to address security and infrastructure challenges at the border, hire additional border patrol personnel, establish new pathways for asylum seekers, and create a path to citizenship. In March, Pappas helped launch a new border security task force to focus on the need for comprehensive, bipartisan solutions to address the border and fix the broken immigration system. Later that month, Pappas helped to pass the fiscal year 2024 government funding package, which included a $3.2 billion increase in funding for Customs and Border Patrol (CPB), providing for a record 22,000 agents, including 150 counter-fentanyl officers, and needed investments in fentanyl detection equipment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-shaheen-hassan-join-epa-in-celebrating-31-million-for-nh-school-districts-to-upgrade-to-clean-school-buses-bringing-healthier-air-to-nh-children-and-families,"Pappas, Shaheen, Hassan Join EPA in Celebrating $31 Million for NH School Districts to Upgrade to Clean School Buses, Bringing Healthier Air to NH Children and Families",2024-10-16,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, during Children’s Health Month, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joinedSenator Maggie Hassan (NH),U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash, and the Derry Cooperative School District to celebrate $31 million in funding for 110 new clean school buses across nine school districts in New Hampshire. This funding is from the EPA's Clean School Bus Program, which was made possible by the bipartisan infrastructure law, and includes $8.6 million in rebate funding for Derry to purchase 25 zero-emission buses. “Clean school buses safeguard the well-being of New Hampshire children, save taxpayer dollars, help keep our air and environment clean, and make a big difference in the long-term health of our communities,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “The EPA's Clean School Bus Program was created by the bipartisan infrastructure law and is providing New Hampshire school districts with resources to upgrade their bus fleet to cleaner, safer vehicles, including rebate funding for Derry to purchase 25 zero-emission buses. This is an important step in the right direction for our children, taxpayers, and communities.” ""Replacing older diesel buses makes a big difference for kids' health and air quality in our communities. That’s why I’m so glad New Hampshire is receiving more than $33 million for 11 school districts to supply 117 new, zero-emission electric school buses. I couldn't be prouder to help deliver this lasting investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in the future of New Hampshire communities,"" said Senator Jeanne Shaheen. Today’s event showcased Derry's new clean energy school buses, which will address climate change, improve public health, and lower costs for New Hampshire schools,"" said Senator Maggie Hassan. “I worked with my colleagues to negotiate and pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to help make smart investments like this possible, and I will continue to work to support New Hampshire’s clean energy economy and lower costs."" “When I was a kid, I remember the acrid smell of the stinky diesel school bus that picked me up at my bus stop. No kid, no matter where they live, should have to breathe in the unhealthy exhaust from a diesel bus,” said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “EPA’s Clean School Bus Program is making it easier for kids to breathe better, cleaner air on the way to and from school. With October being Children’s Health Month, this is a great opportunity to continue amplifying the relationship between cleaner environments and the well-being of our communities, particularly our children. By transforming our nation’s diesel school bus fleet, we’re not only protecting our students, but saving school districts money, improving air quality, and uplifting American innovation and manufacturing.” “We are thrilled to be part of this initiative and grateful for the support of the EPA in helping us transition to clean energy. These new buses represent our commitment to reducing our environmental impact while ensuring safe, reliable transportation for our students. This grant allows us to take a significant step toward a greener future for our community and the next generation,” said Derry Cooperative School District Transportation Coordinator, Dr. Clifton Dancy. “At First Student, our top priority is ensuring each student we transport to and from school arrives ready to learn and returns home safely. Students across the state will soon have cleaner, quieter rides thanks to this funding, which will deliver 25 new electric school buses,” said Kevin Matthews, head of electrification for First Student. “As the company with the most electric school buses on the road today, we are pleased to work with the EPA and school officials in Derry to get these electric school buses in service. Reducing exposure to harmful tailpipe pollution will improve student health and better position them to succeed in school.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-applauds-additional-25-million-from-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-to-support-clean-drinking-water,NH Delegation Applauds Additional $25 Million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Support Clean Drinking Water,2024-10-10,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation celebrated the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) announcement of $24,898,000 in new funding for New Hampshire for drinking water infrastructure, including to identify and remove lead pipes. The funding comes from the bipartisan infrastructure law, which was negotiated by Senators Shaheen and Hassan, and which the full New Hampshire Congressional delegation supported. Along with the funding,EPA announced plans to replace lead pipes across the country within a decade. “Lead pipes are harmful to the health of New Hampshire families and children, and addressing them in a targeted and comprehensive manner will ensure that everyone can access safe, clean drinking water,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “I helped pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to deliver federal resources to our communities to modernize our infrastructure and safeguard public health, and these funds will do that. I’ll keep fighting to address contaminants in drinking water and protect the well-being of Granite Staters.” “Every Granite Stater, regardless of where they live, should have clean water running from their taps,” said Senator Shaheen, “That’s why I was proud to help lead negotiations on the water infrastructure provisions in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—the largest single investment in water ever made by the federal government. I’m glad to see more funding headed to New Hampshire from this historic law to benefit drinking water systems in communities throughout the state.” ""Every Granite Stater deserves access to safe, clean drinking water, and that will be possible for more families now thanks to nearly $25 million in federal funding coming to New Hampshire to replace lead pipes,” said Senator Hassan. “I helped negotiate and pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to enable projects like these, which allow our communities to thrive, and I am glad to see that the bipartisan infrastructure law continues to deliver for New Hampshire.” “Lead exposure poses a serious threat to the health and well-being of Granite State communities—particularly kids’ growth and development,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “With these resources made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, New Hampshire will be able to remove dangerous lead pipes and ensure more homes, schools, and businesses have access to safe, clean drinking water.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/shaheen-hassan-pappas-deliver-remarks-at-new-hampshire-life-sciences-inaugural-event-and-celebrate-granite-state-innovation,"Shaheen, Hassan, Pappas Deliver Remarks at New Hampshire Life Sciences Inaugural Event and Celebrate Granite State Innovation",2024-10-09,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) in delivering remarks at the inaugural celebration of New Hampshire Life Sciences. This statewide life sciences association fosters economic growth and awareness of the life sciences industry in New Hampshire, bringing world-class talent and innovation to the state. “New Hampshire has always been a place that has driven innovation and technology, and today’s inaugural Live Free Life Science Event and Celebration further proves that,” said Congressman Pappas. “Our life science industry is driving economic growth, employing thousands, and accomplishing innovative work that is saving lives. I want to thank New Hampshire Life Sciences for convening this summit to connect businesses, share information and resources, and plan for the future of life sciences here in the Granite State.” “Fueling local economies and growing industries, including New Hampshire’s innovative life sciences industry, requires collaboration,” said Senator Shaheen. “That’s why I’m glad to see so many companies and organizations in this association developing cutting-edge therapies right here in the Granite State that will save lives in the state and beyond. The formation of New Hampshire Life Sciences will help improve lives, all while growing our state’s economy and creating good-paying jobs.” “Today’s Live Free Life Science celebration reaffirms that anyone who wants to innovate, research, or create should come to the Live Free or Die State,” said Senator Hassan. “Life sciences companies are advancing cutting-edge science while creating good paying jobs and are an example of the many innovative businesses that choose to make New Hampshire home.” “The strength of New Hampshire’s life sciences industry was on full display at our Live Free Life Science event, and we are thrilled by the engagement from industry and elected leaders from across the state,” said Andrea Hechavarria, President & CEO of NHLS. “There has been incredible momentum generated over our first year in operation, creating a springboard for our work to help grow the Granite State’s cutting-edge life sciences companies.” Last month, Shaheen, Hassan, and Pappas celebrated the grand-opening of Novocure’s North American flagship facility located in downtown Portsmouth which will house a world-class training and development center, bringing physicians and scientists from around the world to New Hampshire, and creating hundreds of high paying jobs in the state. In July, the New Hampshire Congressional delegation welcomed $44 million in federal funding awarded to the ReGen Valley Tech Hub through the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act toaccelerate Southern New Hampshire’s growth into a global epicenter for the production and distribution of regenerative cells, tissues and organs. Last year, Shaheen, Hassan and Pappas visited the Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute (ARMI) to celebrate the ReGen Valley Consortium’s Tech Hub designation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/during-children-s-health-month-nh-delegation-applauds-more-than-19-million-to-protect-children-from-lead-poisoning,"During Children’s Health Month, NH Delegation Applauds More Than $19 Million to Protect Children from Lead Poisoning",2024-10-08,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation applauded the announcement of more than $19 million headed to New Hampshire from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Lead Hazard Reduction Grant program to help protect families with small children from the dangers of lead-based paint exposure. Specifically, the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority is receiving $7.75 million, the City of Nashua is receiving $7.7 million, and Sullivan County is receiving $4 million through the grant program. “The health of our children must always be a top priority, and protecting them from lead and other hazardous materials is essential in this effort,” said Congressman Pappas. “These funds will help New Hampshire families address lead-based paint and other health issues within our older housing supply to ensure our kids can grow up in a safe environment. I’ll continue working to address the needs of our children, families, and communities.” “Lead-based paint poses a serious health threat to children, and in states like New Hampshire where many of our neighborhoods have older housing stock, we must make every effort to protect families,” said Senator Shaheen. “This federal funding will help protect Granite State children from lead poisoning and exposure to other dangerous contaminants in their homes.” “New Hampshire’s children need safe places to live in order to thrive, but lead-based paint in older homes continues to jeopardize their health and development,” said Senator Hassan. “This federal funding to fix homes with lead paint is not only an important investment in the health of our children, but it also will preserve access to affordable housing in New Hampshire – giving more Granite Staters the safe homes and communities that they deserve.” “The science is clear: there is no safe amount of lead exposure—particularly for young children,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “I’m pleased to join the rest of the delegation in welcoming these resources heading to Nashua, Bedford, and Newport to help remediate older homes and apartments that contain lead paint and protect our communities from hazardous chemicals.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-statement-on-one-year-anniversary-of-hamas-s-october-7th-attack-on-israel,Pappas Statement on One Year Anniversary of Hamas’s October 7th Attack on Israel,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement to mark the one-year anniversary of Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7: “One year ago, Hamas terrorists coordinated a horrific attack on Israel that resulted in the murder of 1,200 innocent people and hundreds taken hostage, including both Israelis and Americans. We remember those lost to this hate-fueled brutality, continue to stand with Jewish communities still recovering, and remain steadfast in our commitment to bringing home the remaining hostages alive.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-honors-law-enforcement-community-at-nh-congressional-law-enforcement-awards-ceremony,NH Delegation Honors Law Enforcement Community at NH Congressional Law Enforcement Awards Ceremony,2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On Friday, New Hampshire’s Congressional delegation honored members of the New Hampshire law enforcement community for exemplary service at the New Hampshire Congressional Law Enforcement Awards (NH-CLEA) ceremony in Concord. You can find photos from the event here. “Congratulations to the men and women of law enforcement who were honored this year for going above and beyond to protect and serve our communities,” said Congressman Pappas. “They always stand ready to answer the call, and that’s why it is so critical that we provide our law enforcement with the support, resources, and respect that they have earned. I’m grateful for the dedication and sacrifice of the New Hampshire law enforcement community which ensures our state has a safe and strong future ahead.” “Granite State law enforcement officers put their lives on the line day after day, doing essential work that often goes underappreciated,” said Senator Shaheen. “This year’s recipients have been recognized for their unique and outstanding efforts, often in the face of great danger to themselves, to protect and serve the citizens of New Hampshire. I offer my sincere gratitude for all that they do.” “New Hampshire’s law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every single day to keep our state safe,” said Senator Hassan. “I was honored to attend the Congressional Law Enforcement Award ceremony tonight and recognize the officers whose extraordinary actions have made an incalculable difference to our communities.” “New Hampshire’s law enforcement officers go above and beyond the call of duty every day to protect us and keep our communities safe,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “Tonight’s ceremony is an opportunity for us to express our thanks and gratitude for their selflessness and sacrifices. I want to extend my congratulations to this year’s recipients and their families.” The New Hampshire Congressional Law Enforcement Awards were started in 1998. All New Hampshire law enforcement officers – whether they are serving full - or part-time – are eligible to be nominated for recognition from the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation. Awardees are selected by an independent committee of law enforcement officers comprised of current and retired federal, state, county, and local officials. At the ceremony, Shaheen, Hassan, and Pappas honored the following law enforcement personnel with certificates of recognition on Friday: 2024 Congressional Law Enforcement Award Recipients Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award This award recognizes officers who put their lives in harm’s way to help others. The NH-CLEA committee realizes that this is always part of any officer’s duties, but there are times when heroism and sacrifice in extreme circumstances need to be recognized. Conservation Officer Levi Frye (NH Fish & Game) Officer Brian Jenkins (Northumberland PD) Lieutenant Geoffrey Pinard (Goffstown PD) Lieutenant James Mitchell (Goffstown PD) Sergeant Kevin Laroche (Goffstown PD) Sergeant Jonathan Babcock (Goffstown PD) Officer Timothy Chabot (Goffstown PD) Sergeant Forrest Walker (Franklin PD) Officer Christopher Hart (Franklin PD) Officer James DeLuca (Hampton PD) Trooper Philip Sheehy (NH State Police) Trooper First Class Nathan Sleight (NH State Police) Officer Richard W. Bateman Dedication and Professionalism Award This award, named in honor of Officer Richard W. Bateman, recognizes law enforcement personnel that go beyond their normal duties in service to others. Officer Jagger Bell (Franklin PD) Dispatch Supervisor Kate Burton (Franklin PD) Dispatcher Ryleigh O’Keefe (Franklin PD) Dispatcher Taylee Wolfe (Franklin PD) Trooper Benjamin Olmstead (NH State Police) Communications Specialist Angelique M. Carter (NH State Police) Marine Patrol Supervisor David Jones (NH Marine Patrol) Marine Patrol Officer Timothy Pinkham (NH Marine Patrol) Detective Wade Brown (Concord PD) Detective Danika Gorham (Concord PD) Sergeant Richard Sprankle (Nashua PD) Officer Adam Anderson (Nashua PD) Border Patrol Agent John Sue (U.S. Border Patrol) Associate Service Award This award recognizes that fire or rescue personnel as well as civilians have come to the assistance of law enforcement personnel in the course of their duties, at times putting their own lives in harm’s way and deserved recognition by the law enforcement community for their assistance. Ms. Christine Lavoie Ms. Suzanne Folsom Career Service Award This award recognizes an individual that has, over the course of his or her career, shown an outstanding dedication to law enforcement and their community.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-announces-24-million-to-increase-safety-for-nh-nonprofits-including-houses-of-worship,"NH Delegation Announces $2.4 Million to Increase Safety for NH Nonprofits, Including Houses of Worship",2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation announced $2.4 million in grants for New Hampshire nonprofits, including houses of worship, under the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. “Granite Staters practicing their faith at their houses of worship or volunteering at non-profit organizations should be able to do so without fear of violent threats or attacks,” said Congressman Pappas. “This funding will provide needed resources to improve the safety and security of New Hampshire’s non-profits and places of worship. I will continue to fight for federal funding that strengthens public safety and addresses the needs of our communities.” “Granite Staters deserve to feel safe when attending a church service or volunteering at a local nonprofit,” saidSenator Hassan. “This federal funding will help houses of worship and nonprofits in New Hampshire – which play an integral role in our communities – boost their security and protect against potential threats.” “Too many times, our nation’s houses of worship have been the target of horrific and senseless violence,” said Senator Shaheen. “No Granite Stater should ever feel unsafe or threatened while practicing their faith, and that’s why I’m glad to see federal funding coming to New Hampshire to help nonprofits and houses of worship bolster their security and protect community members.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-holds-medal-ceremony-honoring-wwi-hello-girl-grace-derby-banker,Pappas Holds Medal Ceremony Honoring WWI “Hello Girl” Grace Derby Banker,2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Ranking Member of the Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA), held a medal ceremony to honor “Hello Girl” Grace Derby Banker. During the ceremony, Pappas presented a World War I Victory Medal and a World War I Victory Button Bronze in recognition of Grace Derby Banker’s service to our nation with the U.S. Army Signal Corps to her granddaughter, Carolyn Timbie. During World War I, women from across the country served as telephone operators in the U.S. Army Signal Corps, nicknamed “Hello Girls”. After their service, they were treated as citizen volunteers and not given recognition as members of the military. It was not until 1977 with the G.I. Improvement Bill signed into law that the Hello Girls finally received recognition for their service from the government, given discharges from the military, and granted veteran benefits. In June, Carolyn Timbie reached out to Congressman Pappas’s office for assistance in securing the WWI Victory Medal for her grandmother, Grace Derby Banker who served during World War I as chief operator of mobile for the American Expeditionary Forces in the U.S. Army Signal Corps or a “Hello Girl”. In 1919, Banker received a Distinguished Service Medal for her work and leadership. It was confirmed last month that Grace Derby Banker was entitled to these additional awards. “Grace Derby Banker’s story is powerful and it is uniquely American. During World War I, Grace Derby Banker used her experience as a telephone operator in civilian life to serve her country in the American Expeditionary Forces in the U.S. Army Signal Corps. She led thirty-three women, served in harsh conditions, and was often on the front lines for nearly two years. Their work was essential to maintain consistent communications between the various battle elements, no doubt saving lives and helping bring about victory,” said Congressman Pappas. “It was an honor for my office to assist Carolyn Timbie in securing the WWI Victory Medal and the WWI Victory Medal Bronze in recognition of Grace Derby Banker’s service, as well as a new copy of the Distinguished Service Award medal. These are small tokens of our appreciation for the service and sacrifice of Grace Derby Banker. I want to thank Carolyn Timbie for her advocacy on behalf of her grandmother and for working so hard to keep the story of the Hello Girls alive and well, and I would urge any veteran or military family that is looking for help or assistance of any kind to reach out to my office.” “It has been an absolute honor and pleasure to be here today with Congressman Pappas and all the supporters of my grandmother Grace Derby Banker, along with the supporters for the Hello Girls Congressional Gold Medal Act. We have waited 106 years for my grandmother to receive this honor, and we could not have done it without the assistance of Congressman Pappas’s office,” said Carolyn Timbie, granddaughter of Hello Girl Grace Derby Banker.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-s-bipartisan-veteran-bill-signed-into-law,Pappas’s Bipartisan Veteran Bill Signed into Law,2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week a bipartisan veteran bill introduced by Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Ranking Member of the Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA), was signed into law, the Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023. “Veterans seeking to use their GI benefits to pursue career opportunities after their service is over should not have to wait. That’s why I’m pleased to share that my bipartisan bill to remove unnecessary delays for veterans seeking to acquire a commercial driving license was signed into law,” said Congressman Pappas. “This simple, commonsense fix will increase opportunities for veterans, help address the current truck driver shortage, and support our supply chains and economy. I will continue working across the aisle to pass critical legislation that ensures the needs of our veterans and their families are being met.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-tours-seacoast-family-promise-s-joshua-house,Pappas Tours Seacoast Family Promise’s Joshua House,2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) visited Seacoast Family Promise’s Joshua House, an overnight shelter for families in need that is being expanded. Seacoast Family Promise empowers families with children who are experiencing homelessness to achieve lasting self-sufficiency through a community-based approach. “Seacoast Family Promise’s Joshua House provides families in need with temporary housing to get back on their feet and regain self-sufficiency. We know that stable housing is essential for one’s well-being and safety, and I was grateful to hear more about the important work Seacoast Family Promise is doing,” said Congressman Pappas. “We must continue to increase our affordable housing supply, improve support for low-income renters and homeowners, and provide resources to our communities to ensure all Granite Staters have access to shelter and support. I’ll continue working across the aisle on this important issue because everyone deserves a safe, secure place to live.” Background: Pappas is committed to working at the federal level to help tackle the state’s housing affordability crisis and delivering federal resources that can help create more affordable housing in every corner of the state. Pappas is a cosponsor of the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act of 2023, which would finance more affordable housing by expanding the Low-Income Housing Tax and codify protections for veterans and victims of domestic and dating violence by formally adopting within the tax code IRS guidance and protections under the Violence Against Women Act. Pappas supports strengthening the Home Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program, which supports building, buying, and rehabilitating affordable housing for rent or ownership for low-income families, and the Continuum of Care (CoC) Program, which works with nonprofits, states and local governments to quickly rehouse homeless individuals, families, and youth, as well as individuals fleeing domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. From the CoC program, New Hampshire received $12.8 million in 2024; $9.4 million in 2022; $8.4 million in 2021. From the HOME program, New Hampshire received $18 million in 2021. Pappas fought to pass the American Rescue Plan into law, which provided $10 billion for the homeowner assistance fund to help with mortgage and utility payments, $5 billion for emergency housing vouchers, $5 billion for the HOME Program to help create housing and services for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and $100 million in assistance for rural housing. Through the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program, New Hampshire received $9 million in April 2023, $3.5 million in January 2023; $2 million in November 2022; $2.4 million in October 2022. Pappas also helped pass the CARES Act into law, which included a limited ban on evictions during the COVID-19 pandemic and contained $25 billion in rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes. New Hampshire received $3.6 million in May 2020; $39.5 million in August 2020; $1.8 million in funding in September 2020.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-pappas-s-bipartisan-bill-to-increase-opportunities-for-veterans-address-trucking-shortage-0,"House Passes Pappas’s Bipartisan Bill to Increase Opportunities for Veterans, Address Trucking Shortage",2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday the House passed Congressman Chris Pappas’s (NH-01)Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023 with bipartisan, unanimous support. This bipartisan legislation will eliminate red tape that excludes veterans from accessing commercial driver-education programs using their GI Bill benefits. It has passed the Senate and is headed to the President’s desk for his signature. The legislation would exempt new branches of established commercial driver-training facilities from the statutory two-year waiting period to accept GI Bill benefits if the primary training facility has already been approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and state approving agencies to receive those benefits. “Removing an arbitrary two year wait for veterans to use their GI benefits to obtain a commercial driving license is common sense and will help address the current truck driver shortage,” said Congressman Pappas, member of House Veterans’ Affairs Committee. “This bipartisan legislation will cut red tape for veterans to acquire a commercial driving license, increasing opportunities for veterans and supporting our supply chains and economy. I urge the President to sign it into law quickly.” Background: The statutory “two-year rule” requires new branches of an already-approved training facility to wait two years before accepting GI Bill benefits. Veterans who want to obtain their commercial driver licenses (CDLs) can face barriers to attending a commercial driver-education program, particularly if they live in a rural area, as they may have to travel long distances or wait two years to attend the closest training facility so that they are able to use their GI Bill benefits. The Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023 requires the new branch of a training facility to teach the same curriculum as the already-approved facility and to meet annual reporting requirements during the two-year exemption period. The VA secretary is also authorized to revoke the exemption from the facility at any time.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-secures-more-than-29-million-in-critical-funding-to-tackle-substance-use-disorder-crisis,NH Delegation Secures More Than $29 Million in Critical Funding to Tackle Substance Use Disorder Crisis,2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation celebrated $29,890,890 in State Opioid Response (SOR) grants heading to New Hampshire to help address the substance use disorder (SUD) crisis. The SOR program is pivotal in providing communities and states with the federal resources necessary to combat the substance use disorder epidemic. “The opioid and addiction epidemic continues to impact families in New Hampshire and across the country. We must continue to build and invest in a multi-pronged approach, from combating drug traffickers to improving access to prevention, treatment, and recovery services,” said Congressman Pappas. “These grants will help provide critical resources and services to those suffering from addiction and support prevention efforts. I’ll keep working across the aisle to take comprehensive action and support first responders and health providers on the frontlines of this fight.” “One life lost to the substance misuse epidemic is one too many, and that’s why I’m glad to see this critical funding heading to the Granite State organizations that are on the frontlines of addressing this crisis in our communities,” said Senator Shaheen. “As an appropriator, I’ll keep fighting to ensure New Hampshire receives the resources it needs to address the substance use disorder crisis on all fronts.” “As New Hampshire continues to combat the fentanyl crisis, this federal funding is essential to continuing addiction prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts,” said Senator Hassan. “The recent drop in overdose fatalities gives us hope – and underscores the importance of investing in evidence-based solutions. I will keep working to get communities in New Hampshire the tools that they need to help fight this epidemic in every way that we can.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-votes-to-keep-the-government-open,Pappas Votes to Keep the Government Open,2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement after voting to pass H.R. 9747, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act: “Today I voted to keep our government open by supporting the continuing resolution. This legislation will ensure we fund vital services that Granite Staters rely on and includes provisions from my bipartisan legislation to safeguard VA’s ability to bury spouses and dependents who predecease service members. I urge the Senate to swiftly pass it and for the President to sign it into law so that we prevent any possibility of a government shutdown.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-welcomes-60-million-in-tax-credits-for-community-development-to-support-small-businesses-and-spur-economic-growth,NH Delegation Welcomes $60 Million in Tax Credits for Community Development to Support Small Businesses and Spur Economic Growth,2024-09-24,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today the New Hampshire delegation announced that Mascoma Community Development, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mascoma Bank of Lebanon, was awarded $60 million in New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) to incentivize development in underserved communities. “Investments into our communities and small businesses are helping develop local economies, create more good-paying jobs, and strengthen our quality of life,” said Congressman Pappas. “These funds will incentivize economic development in New Hampshire’s underserved communities to ensure no city or town is left behind. I’ll continue to advocate for programs that help our state, small businesses, and communities grow and thrive.” “Underserved communities and small businesses often struggle to get the capital they need to grow, which is why this investment is key to the overall economic success of our state. I’m glad to see this award going to Mascoma Community Development to help ensure small businesses and entrepreneurs working to develop these communities have the resources they need to succeed,” said Senator Shaheen. “I look forward to continuing to support programs that provide development opportunities, create jobs and grow our economy in communities across New Hampshire.” “Investing in Granite State businesses and ensuring that they have access to the capital that they need is a key way to help our local economy thrive,” said Senator Hassan. “This federal funding will promote development and growth in the Upper Valley and throughout New Hampshire, and I will keep supporting programs that help create jobs and invest in our state.” “Small businesses and local entrepreneurs are the backbone of New Hampshire’s economy and way of life,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “These resources heading to Mascoma Community Development will go a long way toward uplifting our Main Street businesses and the communities they serve, and I look forward to seeing the benefit the New Market Tax Credit program continues to have on New Hampshire’s economic growth.” This award is provided by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund), which promotes development in low-income urban and rural communities by investing in mission-driven financial institutions. Tax credit allocations awarded to Community Development Entities (CDE), such as Mascoma Community Development, enable CDEs to raise additional capital to invest in low income and distressed communities in return for tax credits. The total tax credit provided to investors equals 39 percent of the original investment and is spread over a seven-year period.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-support-grows-for-pappas-bill-to-protect-veterans-benefits-from-predatory-claim-sharks,Bipartisan Support Grows for Pappas Bill to Protect Veterans’ Benefits from Predatory Claim Sharks,2024-09-23,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week, the Problem Solvers Caucus - a group evenly split between Republicans and Democrats - endorsed Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01)’s Governing Unaccredited Representatives Defrauding (GUARD) VA Benefits Act, which would reinstate criminal penalties for unaccredited claim representatives who charge unauthorized fees while assisting veterans with filing a claim for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability compensation benefits. Pappas is a member of the Problem Solvers Caucus and has been rated among the most independent, bipartisan members of Congress. “Veterans seeking to access their benefits should not face another battle to do so. Unfortunately, unaccredited, for-profit companies are scamming veterans of their earned benefits under the guise of helping them, and they must be stopped and held accountable,” said Congressman Pappas, Ranking Member of the Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA) Subcommittee of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee (HVAC). “As we continue to implement the PACT Act and expand veterans' benefits, it’s vital we ensure veterans can access these benefits and receive help from representatives that are accredited, engage in transparent and ethical practices, and adhere to VA regulations. My bipartisan GUARD VA Benefits Act would protect veterans and their benefits from predatory claim sharks, and as it continues to gain bipartisan support, I’ll keep fighting to get this important legislation passed.” Unaccredited claims representatives, or claim sharks, are not subject to VA standards. They strategically advertise their services to avoid regulatory oversight and as a result, may engage in predatory and unethical practices that target veterans and rob them of their VA benefits. Federal laws and regulations prohibit anyone from assisting a veteran in the preparation, presentation, or prosecution of a VA benefit claim, or charging a fee for this assistance, without accreditation from VA's Office of General Counsel. However, VA and other federal agencies are limited in their ability to enforce existing law because explicit criminal penalties were stripped from statute nearly two decades ago. This has contributed to the proliferation of unaccredited claims representatives in recent years. This legislation will discourage for-profit companies from operating outside the bounds of federal law and will give VA and other agencies an additional tool to protect veteran claimants from predatory practices. The GUARD VA Benefits Act has strong support within Congress and across the veterans community. The House legislation has 214 bipartisan cosponsors and companion legislation has been introduced by Senators Boozman, Blumenthal, Tester, and Graham. It has also been endorsed by Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), The American Legion, National Organization of Veterans’ Advocates (NOVA), Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), AMVETS, National Association of Counties (NACo), Military-Veterans Advocacy, Blinded Veterans Association, National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, National Law School Veterans Clinic Consortium, and National Veterans Legal Services Program. Background: In February 2022, Pappas called for and received a briefing from VA on its strategy to raise awareness of and better protect veterans from these predatory practices. In April 2022, Pappas chaired a joint Subcommittee hearing on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Accreditation Program for individuals who assist veterans with VA disability claims. Testimony given at the hearing highlighted the rise of unaccredited disability claims consultants who target veterans for financial exploitation and the importance of reinstating criminal penalties to deter bad actors. In August 2022, Pappas first introduced the Governing Unaccredited Representatives Defrauding (GUARD) VA Benefits Act to reinstate criminal penalties for unaccredited claim representatives who charge unauthorized fees while assisting veterans with filing a claim for VA disability compensation benefits. In February 2023, Pappas re-introduced this legislation in the 118th Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-jacobs-levin-reintroduce-legislation-to-address-harmful-impact-of-don-t-ask-don-t-tell-guarantee-va-benefits-for-lgbtq-veterans,"Pappas, Jacobs, Levin Reintroduce Legislation to Address Harmful Impact of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”, Guarantee VA Benefits for LGBTQ+ Veterans",2024-09-20,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On the 13th anniversary of the full repeal of ""Don't Ask, Don't Tell"" (DADT), Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee and Co-Chair of the Equality Caucus, alongside Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (CA-51) and Congressman Mike Levin (CA-49) reintroduced theSecuring the Rights our Veterans Earned (SERVE) Act to guarantee and protect VA benefits for LGBTQ+ veterans discharged from the Armed Forces due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. During DADT, many LGBTQ+ veterans who were discharged because of their sexual orientation or gender identity received Other Than Honorable (OTH) or Entry-Level Separation (ELS) discharges, preventing access to VA health care and benefits such as education, burial and memorial services, and home loans. Since its repeal in 2011, impacted veterans appealing for VA benefits have reported a prolonged and burdensome process, often requiring the use of a lawyer, to seek the respect and benefits they earned. Additionally, far too many veterans discharged under DADT are still unaware they can seek an upgrade or where to start the process. The SERVE Act would take critical steps to address this problem by: Extending VA benefits eligibility to veterans who received an “Other Than Honorable” discharge or entry-level separation solely due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, including medical and disability benefits, pensions, veteran center readjustment counseling and mental health services, burial benefits, educational benefits, and housing loans. Requiring VA to conduct outreach to veterans who may be eligible for VA benefits under the legislation and to conduct outreach to Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) and military service organizations about the new eligibility criteria. Requiring VA to report to Congress on the benefits provided under the legislation during the first year of enactment, including the number and demographic information of individuals who received such benefits. “Veterans and their families deserve our thanks and gratitude for their service and sacrifice. It’s deplorable that LGBTQ+ service members and veterans ever suffered from the discriminatory policies of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’, and that thirteen years since its repeal, countless veterans continue to be impacted by this injustice, affecting the benefits and care many rightfully deserve for serving our country,” said Congressman Pappas. “Today I’m re-introducing the SERVE Act which would take important steps to ensure LGBTQ+ service members who were unjustly discharged receive the benefits they earned.” “Anyone who has served and sacrificed so much for our country should have full access to their VA benefits,” said Congresswoman Sara Jacobs, Vice Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. “But even 13 years since the repeal of the discriminatory ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy, many LGBTQ+ veterans are still denied their VA health care and benefits because of who they are and who they love. We owe our veterans so much more than this. I’m proud to co-lead the SERVE Act to right this wrong and provide the care and benefits our LGBTQ+ veterans have rightfully earned.” “The discriminatory Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy wrongfully ended the military careers of thousands of service members and, although it is no longer in place, its consequences are still felt today. Veterans discharged under Don’t Ask Don’t Tell are being denied the benefits they rightfully earned, and we must correct this wrong. I’m proud to co-lead this important legislation that will unlock VA benefits for veterans who were wrongfully discharged under Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. Those who serve our country deserve the upmost respect and gratitude, regardless of their sexual orientation. We must grant them the benefits they deserve. I thank Rep. Pappas for his leadership and look forward to moving this bill through the legislative process,” said Congressman Levin. The legislation has been endorsed by Equality California, Human Rights Campaign, Minority Veterans of America (MVA), Modern Military Association of America (MMAA), and Silver State Equality. ""For decades, the selfless service of our nation’s LGBTQ+ veterans has been diminished by unequal treatment, rooted in discriminatory regulations. Many LGBTQ-identifying veterans left service involuntarily, and often without the ability to access benefits and services that were largely available to cisgender and heterosexual veterans. Now that discriminatory policies are relics of the past, we must do the work necessary to ensure that our community receives those benefits and services. We applaud Congressman Pappas and the sponsors of this Bill for their dedication to righting historic wrongs and advocating for our most marginalized and underserved populations,"" said Peter Perkowski, Legal & Policy Director, Minority Veterans of America. ""We owe all of our veterans a debt of gratitude for their service in protecting our country, and that includes LGBTQ+ veterans. Unfortunately, too many LGBTQ+ veterans don’t have full access to VA benefits due to outdated and discriminatory rules and laws that were in place at the time they served. The passage of the SERVE Act will help to right some of these wrongs, and we thank Rep. Chris Pappas and the bill’s cosponsors for reintroducing this important legislation,"" said Jennifer Pike Bailey, Human Rights Campaign Director of Government Affairs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-introduces-the-bipartisan-state-boating-act,Pappas Introduces the Bipartisan State Boating Act,2024-09-19,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) introduced the State Boating Act alongside Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) and Congressman Blake Moore (UT-01). This bipartisan legislation would ensure that states can collect boating fees during the boat registration and certificate of numbering process, which help fund programs to address aquatic invasive species, boating safety, search and rescue, and others. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (NH) is leading the Senate companion bill. Most boats owned and operated on the waters of the United States must have either a Certificate of Documentation (COD) or a Certificate of Number (CON) on board when operating. Many states, like New Hampshire, have collected fees for decades alongside the COD or CON fees which has enabled them to mostly or fully fund important boating and environmental programs, like aquatic invasive species, lake restoration, boating safety, and search and rescue efforts. Recently, the Coast Guard has blocked a number of states from collecting these boating fees alongside CON fees. The State Boating Act would make clear the ability of states to collect state boating fees alongside CON fees and registration. “For decades in New Hampshire, fees collected during the boating registration process have allowed the continued success of critical programs like boating safety, search and rescue operations, and efforts to address invasive species, keeping our waters and Granite Staters safe,” said Congressman Pappas. “I’m pleased to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Representatives Kiggans and Moore that will cut the red tape for states to strengthen boating and water safety.” “Virginia’s lakes, rivers, and coastal waterways are home to more than 250,000 registered motorboats,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “In order for our local recreational boating industry to continue thriving, we need programs that address boating safety, search and rescue efforts, and invasive aquatic species. That’s why I joined Congressman Pappas in introducing the State Boating Act of 2024. This bipartisan bill will ensure states can support these critical programs by authorizing them to secure funding through the boat registration process. As a coastal Virginian, I’m proud to fight for commonsense policies that protect all of the incredible outdoor recreation activities the Commonwealth has to offer.” “In Utah and across the country, state fish and wildlife agencies work tirelessly to improve boater experience and safety. In many cases, those activities are directly funded by state boating fees. By taking this funding stream away, the federal government is hindering the important work these state agencies do to improve boater programs, conduct search and rescue operations, and protect waterways from invasive species,” said Congressman Moore. “I’m glad to work with my colleagues Congressman Pappas and Congresswoman Kiggans to right this wrong and allow our states to access the funding they need to do their jobs.” ""For decades, states have used boating registration to collect fees that support vital programs to improve boating access, increase boater safety, and maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems,"" said Chuck Sykes, Director of the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries and President of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies. ""We thank Congressman Pappas [D-NH], Congresswoman Kiggans [R-VA], and Congressman Moore [R-UT] for the introduction of the bipartisan State Boating Act, which will allow states to continue to collect these fees as a condition of boating registration. This ability allows states to create one simple transaction process for their customers while ensuring programs receive the critical funding needed.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-s-bipartisan-bill-to-increase-veteran-benefits-passes-house,Pappas’s Bipartisan Bill to Increase Veteran Benefits Passes House,2024-09-18,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Ranking Member of the Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA), helped lead the House in passing the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2024 with a bipartisan, unanimous vote. Pappas introduced this legislation alongside Congressman Morgan Luttrell (TX-08). The Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act (COLA) of 2024 would increase the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities, as well as the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain veterans as of December 1, 2024. The increase in VA benefits would equal the cost-of-living increase provided for certain Social Security benefits. “We have no more solemn obligation as Americans than to ensure the needs of our veterans and their families are met,” said Congressman Pappas. “I’m honored to partner with Congressman Luttrell on this critically important bipartisan piece of legislation to ensure veterans’ benefits keep pace with our changing economy. I’ll continue working with my colleagues across the aisle to support important legislation for our veterans.” Pappas previously introduced legislation to increase the rates of compensation for veterans in 2023, which became law. This legislation must be passed each year to provide veterans and families with increased compensation rates.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-backed-bill-to-safeguard-veteran-benefits-passes-house-with-unanimous-vote,Pappas-Backed Bill to Safeguard Veteran Benefits Passes House with Unanimous Vote,2024-09-17,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Following his call for action, House passes Pappas-backed bill to avert funding shortfall for veterans benefits Today, the House unanimously passed bipartisan legislation supported by Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) to close a funding shortfall at the Department of Veterans Affairs and prevent 7 million veterans from seeing their benefits stopped or reduced at the end of this week. Pappas joined Rep. Mike Garcia’s (CA-27) H.R. 9468 the Veterans Benefits Continuity and Accountability Supplemental Appropriations Act shortly after it was introduced. This bipartisan legislation would provide VA’s Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) $2.3 billion for compensation and pensions as well as $597 million for readjustment benefits. “There is no greater promise that we make as Americans than to take care of those who have worn the uniform of this country and their families who have sacrificed alongside them,” said Congressman Pappas, Ranking Member of the Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA) Subcommittee of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee (HVAC). “Following my calls on leadership for action, I’m pleased that the House has unanimously passed bipartisan legislation to prevent 7 million veterans from seeing their benefits stopped or reduced at the end of this week. I will continue to demand answers and accountability from VA leadership, but in this serious situation, time is of the essence. Now is not the time for politics or posturing, now is the time to get the job done for our veterans just like they have done for us.” Background: Following the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) notification to Congress of an anticipated funding shortfall by September 20, Congressman Pappas wrote to Speaker Mike Johnson urging Congress to work in a bipartisan fashion to pass emergency supplemental funding to safeguard the benefits of millions of veterans across the country. Pappas has consistently pressed VA on the need to effectively implement the Honoring Our PACT Act and meet the needs of veterans seeking care for toxic exposure and other issues. Pappas's VA Workforce Investment and Expansion Act, which expands VA workforce by enhancing hiring practices and incentives to recruit and retain health care professionals, was included in that legislation. Pappas has sounded the alarm on the Veterans Affairs' Committee about VA’s concerning budgetary decisions, backlogs at VA, and addressing issues that delay veterans from accessing the care they need, including bringing to light over a year ago his concerns about increased demand on VA following the passage of the PACT Act.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-pushes-for-vote-on-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-social-security-benefits,Pappas Pushes for Vote on Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Social Security Benefits,2024-09-12,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) signed a discharge petition to force a vote in the House on the Social Security Fairness Act, which would eliminate the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) that unfairly reduce or eliminate Social Security benefits for millions of Americans working in public service, including federal employees, police officers, firefighters, and educators. This bipartisan legislation is currently cosponsored by 327 members, 210 Democrats and 117 Republicans. “All hard-working Americans who have paid into a retirement plan, whether it is Social Security or a pension or both, deserve the benefits they have earned. For more than 40 years, individuals who devoted much of their career to public service and contributed to Social Security have had their earned benefits unfairly reduced or eliminated,” said Congressman Pappas. “The Social Security Fairness Act would fix this issue by ending the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset. It has broad bipartisan support and I’m pushing for a vote now to right this wrong for our police, firefighters, teachers, postal workers, and all public servants who pay into Social Security and have a pension.” Currently, the WEP reduces the earned Social Security benefits of an individual who also receives a public pension from a job not covered by Social Security. For example, educators who do not earn Social Security in public schools but who work part-time or during the summer in jobs covered by Social Security have reduced benefits, even though they pay into the system just like others. Likewise, the GPO affects the spousal benefits of people who work as federal, state, or local government employees, including police officers, firefighters, and educators, if the job is not covered by Social Security. The GPO reduces by two-thirds the benefit received by surviving spouses who also collect a government pension. The WEP currently impacts approximately 2 million Social Security beneficiaries, and the GPO impacts nearly 800,000 retirees.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-praises-over-37-million-in-federal-funding-to-hire-and-retain-firefighters-in-manchester,Pappas Praises Over $3.7 Million in Federal Funding to Hire and Retain Firefighters in Manchester,2024-09-10,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) celebrated the announcement of over $3.7 million in federal funding for Manchester Fire Department to hire and retain an additional twelve firefighters through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Staffing for Adequate Fire Emergency Response (SAFER) Grants program. “Every day firefighters answer the call from our communities responding to any number of emergencies,” said Congressman Pappas. “This funding will help Manchester Fire Department recruit and retain twelve more firefighters to ensure they have the personnel to meet the needs of our city. My conversations with first responders continue to make it clear that federal resources like this are critical in supporting their mission to keep our communities safe. I will keep working to secure resources that support New Hampshire firefighters and first responders and their vital public safety work.” “The men and women of the Manchester Fire Department provide critical public safety services and emergency response to protect the safety and well-being of our community members. This federal funding will enable us to hire an additional twelve firefighters, ensuring we have the personnel to swiftly answer every call,” said Manchester Fire Chief Ryan Cashin. “Thank you to Congressman Pappas and his office for their help in applying to this grant and committed support for New Hampshire firefighters as well as our mutual goal of making Manchester a safer place to live and be a source of pride for all.” The SAFER program provides eligible fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations with resources to hire new additional firefighters, to change the status of part-time or paid-on-call firefighters to full-time firefighters, to rehire laid off firefighters or to retain firefighters facing layoff, as well as to recruit and retain volunteer firefighters.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-security-coordination-at-northern-border,Pappas Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Security Coordination at Northern Border,2024-09-06,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), and Marc Molinaro (NY-19) introduced the Improving Coordination for the Northern Border Act. This bipartisan legislation would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish the Northern Border Coordination Center to strengthen implementation and coordination of the Northern Border Strategy, which includes training, information sharing, intelligence, and engagement with federal, state, Tribal, local, and international government partners. In the Swanton Sector, which includes New Hampshire’s northern border, Border Patrol agents arrested almost 7,000 migrants trying to cross the border illegally between October 2023 and September 2024, more than the previous 12 Fiscal Years combined. “Strengthening operations at our northern border is critical to drug interdiction efforts and keeping dangerous substances out of our communities,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “The Coordination Center will provide a central hub for implementing the Northern Border Strategy, including enforcing our immigration laws and stemming illicit drug trafficking, while supporting coordination efforts between U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel, local law enforcement, and other partners. I thank Representatives Tenney and Molinaro for partnering with me on this bill, and I will continue fighting to pass legislation that supports and invests in border security, law enforcement, and anti-smuggling technology.” “There has been an unprecedented spike in illegal crossings at our Northern Border, including an 846% increase in one sector alone, putting our national security and community safety at risk,” said Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24). “Additionally, 85% of suspected terrorists that have illegally crossed our borders have done so over the Northern Border. By establishing a Northern Border Coordination Center, we can enable the Department of Homeland Security to effectively implement the Northern Border Strategy to enhance training and information sharing among federal, state, local, and international partners and secure our Northern Border to help keep our Northern Border communities, including NY-24, safe."" “Record statistics make clear that we shouldn't just be focused on securing our southern border,” said Congressman Marc Molinaro (NY-19). “This bipartisan bill will create a central hub to implement a Northern Border Strategy that prevents drugs and criminals from making it across the northern border and into our communities.” The Improving Coordination for the Northern Border Act would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish the Northern Border Coordination Center, to be collocated with an existing U.S. Border Patrol sector headquarters, the U.S. Border Patrol Northern Border Coordination Center, an Air and Marine Operations Branch, and a U.S. Coast Guard air station. The Center would support implementation of the Northern Border Security Strategy, help to track Northern Border security metrics, serve as a training location for DHS personnel and as a testing grounds for new border security technologies. The legislation also requires Air and Marine Operations to maintain quick reaction capabilities at the Center to support the border security mission along the Northern Border, including against the rising threat of illegal cross-border drone activity. The bill text is here. Background: Pappas has been an ardent supporter of bipartisan efforts to address America’s northern and southern border and has called on House Republican leadership to stop blocking the consideration of legislation to restore order and fix the U.S.’s immigration system that has been broken for decades. Pappas is a cosponsor of the Dignity Act, which is comprehensive, bipartisan legislation to address security and infrastructure challenges at the border, hire additional border patrol personnel, establish new pathways for asylum seekers, and create a path to citizenship. In March, Pappas helped launch a new border security task force to focus on the need for comprehensive, bipartisan solutions to address the border and fix the broken immigration system. Later that month, Pappas helped to pass the fiscal year 2024 government funding package, which included a $3.2 billion increase in funding for Customs and Border Patrol (CPB), providing for a record 22,000 agents, including 150 counter-fentanyl officers, and needed investments in fentanyl detection equipment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-attends-christa-mcauliffe-statue-dedication-ceremony-at-the-state-house,NH Delegation Attends Christa McAuliffe Statue Dedication Ceremony at the State House,2024-09-03,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation joined NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy for the dedication of a statue commemorating the life of Christa McAuliffe on the grounds of the New Hampshire State House in Concord. McAuliffe’s family members and fellow astronauts also attended the ceremony. McAuliffe, who began her career as a teacher in Concord, was selected to be the first educator astronaut in space and was one of seven courageous crew members who tragically died during the Space Shuttle Challenger mission STS-51-L on January 28, 1986. “Both as a teacher and as an astronaut, Christa McAuliffe taught her students and all Americans to dream big and dare to do extraordinary things. It’s been 38 years since the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion tragically resulted in the death of its crew, including New Hampshire’s Christa McAuliffe. To this day she remains an inspiration,” said Congressman Pappas. “I was honored to join the unveiling ceremony of Christa McAuliffe’s statue on the grounds of the New Hampshire State House. I know this statue will serve as an enduring reminder of her pioneering spirit and the impact she made on generations.” “I was humbled to attend the unveiling of a new statue at the New Hampshire State House honoring one of the Granite State’s legendary and trailblazing astronauts, Christa McAuliffe,” said Senator Shaheen. “From courageous astronauts to cutting-edge aerospace manufacturing, the Granite State has led the way on space exploration and innovation, and McAuliffe’s achievements were an integral part of that history.” “It was an honor to join in the unveiling of the new statue to recognize Christa McAuliffe and her impact on countless Granite Staters and Americans, inspiring them to push the boundaries of education and exploration,” said Senator Hassan. “Although Christa’s life was cut short 38 years ago when she was killed alongside six others in the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion, her legacy lives on.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-helps-announce-210000-in-grants-to-protect-children-from-lead-in-drinking-water,"Pappas Helps Announce $210,000 in Grants to Protect Children From Lead in Drinking Water",2024-08-27,2024,2024-08,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, joined Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Senator Maggie Hassan, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in announcing $210,000 in funding for New Hampshire to protect children from lead in drinking water at schools and child care facilities. This grant funding will support lead testing and remediation in schools and childcare facilities to reduce lead exposure where children learn and play. “Whether at school, a child care facility, or home, no one should have to worry about having access to safe and clean drinking water,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “I fought to pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to deliver these federal resources to New Hampshire that help protect the health of Granite State families and children, safeguard clean water, and modernize our infrastructure. This funding will help accomplish that by ensuring our children are learning and growing in a safe environment.” “Every person, every child, deserves safe and clean drinking water. As students, staff, and teachers start returning to classrooms across New England, no one should have to worry whether the water their loved one drinks at school or daycare is safe,” said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “This funding for testing water taps at schools and childcare facilities will help ensure that every child in New Hampshire can learn and grow in an environment free from the dangers of lead exposure. Coupled with the historic $15 billion investments under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to identify and replace lead pipes, we’re working together with our partners to protect the health of our communities and to ensure a future for all of our children that is safe and lead-free.” “No parent should worry that the water their child might drink at school or daycare is contaminated, which is why investing in our water infrastructure is so important for Granite State families,” said U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee and a lead negotiator of the water provisions of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I’m pleased to see the funding I worked to secure be put to use in New Hampshire to help communities ensure that no child is exposed to lead contaminated water.” “It’s great to see the bipartisan infrastructure law continuing to deliver for our state with this latest round of federal funding for clean water in our schools and child care centers,” said U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan. “Every child in New Hampshire deserves safe drinking water at home and at school, and I will continue working to ensure that all Granite Staters have access to clean and safe drinking water.” In children, lead can severely harm mental and physical development, slowing down learning, and irreversibly damaging the brain. In adults, lead can cause increased blood pressure, heart disease, decreased kidney function, and cancer. Background",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-releases-psa-video-with-resources-to-protect-granite-staters-from-fraud-and-scams,Pappas Releases PSA Video with Resources to Protect Granite Staters from Fraud and Scams,2024-08-23,2024,2024-08,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Last week, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined officials from the Federal Trade Commission and New Hampshire Department of Justice for an online webinar to share resources and information to protect Granite Staters from scams and fraud. Following that event, Congressman Pappas’s office released a video PSA to allow individuals and organizations to have on-demand access to vital information to protect themselves and others from scams. Click here to view the full webinar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3roJM3edO2I “Scammers who steal money and personal information represent a clear and present danger to New Hampshire residents, especially older Granite Staters who are routinely targeted with increasingly sophisticated attempts to exploit and take advantage of them,” said Congressman Pappas. “That is why it is critically important that we provide the resources and support that individuals need to identify these scams, to raise awareness, and to educate communities about where they can turn to get help. I’m grateful to the representatives from the Federal Trade Commission and the New Hampshire Department of Justice who joined me on the webinar to share information, and for the work, they do every day to protect our friends and neighbors from scams.” Links and resources:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-announces-more-than-29-million-in-federal-funding-to-support-granite-state-firefighters,NH Delegation Announces More than $2.9 Million in Federal Funding to Support Granite State Firefighters,2024-08-22,2024,2024-08,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, the New Hampshire delegation announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded more than $2.9 million in federal funding to support Granite State firefighters through its Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. These grants will allow firefighters and other first responders to obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources necessary for protecting the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards. “New Hampshire firefighters put themselves in harm’s way every day to protect our communities. It’s critical they have the tools, training, and equipment to do their jobs safely,” said Congressman Pappas. “This funding will help New Hampshire fire departments upgrade equipment and gear as well as support training. I’ll continue working to return federal dollars to support the vital work of New Hampshire firefighters and first responders.” ""Firefighters and first responders bravely serve their communities and put their lives on the line every day to do so. It’s critical that these heroes have the training, equipment and resources they need to do their jobs,” said Senator Shaheen. “As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue working in Congress to secure funding for Granite State firefighters and our first responders who work tirelessly to keep our families safe.” “New Hampshire’s courageous fire fighters work to protect Granite Staters every day, and it is crucial that they have access to the resources and equipment that they need to save lives,” said Senator Hassan. “I am glad to see new federal funding coming to fire departments across our state for gear, training, and equipment that fire fighters need to do their jobs safely and effectively. In Congress, we recently worked together across the aisle to continue the programs that provide this funding for local fire departments, and I will keep working to support our brave first responders.” ""Our first responders risk their lives and sacrifice so much to keep our communities safe,"" said Congresswoman Kuster. ""We must work to ensure they have the resources and staffing they need. FEMA's Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing For Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants are critical programs that allow fire and EMS agencies across the country to access the resources and staffing they need to save lives while reducing the financial strain on local communities. I'm proud to support these programs and thrilled to see critical resources coming to our state to help make our communities safer and more resilient."" Last year, the New Hampshire Delegation celebrated more than $1 million in AFG grants to New Hampshire Fire Departments and have consistently worked to ensure that New Hampshire fire departments benefit from this program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-introduces-bill-to-strengthen-ethical-standards-in-congress,Pappas Introduces Bill to Strengthen Ethical Standards in Congress,2024-08-15,2024,2024-08,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congresswoman Katie Porter (CA-47) introduced legislation to codify the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE), the only independent internal watchdog that probes ethical breaches in Congress. Every two years, Congress passes new rules to regulate how OCE operates, and in 2023, House Republicans voted to weaken OCE and bog down investigations with bureaucratic red tape. The Clean Legislating and Ethical Accountability Now (CLEAN) Act would permanently authorize the Office of Congressional Ethics by codifying it into federal law, so that this watchdog can conduct the oversight Americans deserve no matter who controls Congress. “Members of Congress and their offices must be accountable to the people, and the Office of Congressional Ethics serves as a critical body to investigate alleged misconduct,” said Congressman Pappas. “Currently, the Office of Congressional Ethics requires reauthorization every two years. The CLEAN Act will make it a permanent office within the House of Representatives.” “All of us lose when one party can unilaterally change the rules to protect their own interests and escape accountability,” said Congresswoman Porter. “The Office of Congressional Ethics gives Americans confidence that Congress is working for them by independently investigating potential ethics violations; no person or party should be able to undermine that. The CLEAN Act will make this watchdog permanent, increase accountability for Congressmembers, and help rebuild Americans’ trust in government.” The CLEAN Act is endorsed by organizations such as Common Cause, Campaign Legal Center, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Democracy 21, End Citizens United/Let America Vote Action Fund, and the League of Women Voters of the U.S.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-joins-groundbreaking-of-solar-farm-at-somersworth-superfund-site,Pappas Joins Groundbreaking of Solar Farm at Somersworth Superfund Site,2024-08-12,2024,2024-08,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined federal and local officials for the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a new solar array at the site of the former Somersworth Sanitary Landfill. This is the first time in New Hampshire that a portion of a Superfund site has been redeveloped into a solar farm. “Making smart investments in our clean energy infrastructure is a critical step to ensuring we continue to lower costs for Granite Staters while putting our nation on the road to a more sustainable energy future,” said U.S. Representative Chris Pappas. “I was glad to join federal, state, and local partners in Somersworth this afternoon to break ground on the future sight of this new solar array. By safely and responsibly repurposing a former landfill site, we are protecting the health and safety of our communities and environment while strengthening our clean energy infrastructure in the Seacoast. I remain committed to lowering the cost of energy and creating a clean energy future here in New Hampshire."" “We applaud the site team for their diligent work to clean up this portion of the site – and recognize the transformative decision of the City of Somersworth to repair the harm and invest in the health of their community and environment,” said EPA New England Chief of Staff Sanjay Seth. “We thank our state and federal partners for their resolve and dedication to help make this project happen.” “This Solar project is an important step towards increasing sustainability efforts in our Somersworth Community and aligns with other similar efforts in our Region and in our State,” said City of Somersworth Mayor Matt Gerding. “It is important that we collectively welcome green energy as another element of our collective energy portfolio. On behalf of the City of Somersworth, I want to express our excitement for this long-awaited groundbreaking as it repurposes City-owned land that otherwise had very limited use. I want to express my appreciation and sincere thanks for all the hard work, effort, and collaboration put forth by our City Council and City staff with Ameresco in reaching this public-private partnership that resulted in bringing this important Solar project to fruition. I also want to acknowledge the assistance of our regulatory partners, staff from the US EPA and NH DES, in their steadfast participation and support in moving this project to reality.” “Superfund sites, like the former Somersworth Sanitary Landfill, present unique challenges for Granite State communities and are often left vacant despite their high potential for redevelopment,” said U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “I’m thrilled that with the help of federal funding from the Biden-Harris Administration, the City of Somersworth is breaking ground on a solar farm that will both repurpose their former landfill and also provide clean energy to the community.” “New Hampshire is continuing to modernize our infrastructure, including through building a new solar array at the former Somersworth Landfill,” said U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan. “This new solar array will help our state build a clean energy future that will also help lower energy costs – and by finding a way to make use of this unoccupied land, is another example of New Hampshire’s innovation and ingenuity.” Background: The Site is located on Blackwater Road, about 1 mile southwest of the center of the City of Somersworth in Strafford County, New Hampshire. The Site is the location of a former sanitary landfill that accepted municipal and industrial wastes from the mid-1930s to 1981. Waste-burning activities also occurred on-site until 1958. The 26-acre landfill is located north of Blackwater Road and drains west to Peters Marsh Brook and an adjacent wetland. Waste disposal activities at the landfill resulted in contamination of groundwater with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including chlorinated ethenes. After landfill activities ended at the Site in 1981, the City of Somersworth installed monitoring wells at the Site and identified VOC contamination in Site groundwater. As a result of the contamination, EPA added the Site to the Superfund program’s National Priorities List (NPL) in 1983. The site’s 1994 cleanup plan included use of an innovative chemicaltreatment wall (CTW) to detoxify VOCs as the groundwater flows through the wall, with a final cap to be determined after cleanup. Construction of the CTW finished in 2000. A permeable soil cover, which allows precipitation to flush contaminants from the landfill through the CTW, plus an infiltration gallery and a bedrock extraction well, which both help in the flushing of the contaminated groundwater, were completed in 2001.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-kiggans-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-cut-red-tape-on-trucking-apprenticeship-programs-for-veterans,"Pappas, Kiggans Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Cut Red Tape on Trucking Apprenticeship Programs for Veterans",2024-08-09,2024,2024-08,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02), members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee (HVAC), introduced the Veterans’ Transition to Trucking Act, bipartisan legislation to cut red tape for veteran truckers by allowing VA to streamline the approval of certain apprenticeship programs to partner with VA. The companion bill in the Senate was introduced by Senators Jon Tester (MT) and Bill Cassidy (LA). Currently, interstate trucking companies must get approval from every state they operate in for veterans to use their VA education benefits for apprenticeship programs at that company. VA has reported that some trucking companies are opting out of offering apprenticeships to veterans due to the bureaucratic hurdles of having to gain approval with over 20 different SAAs. This legislation would help address this problem by allowing interstate commercial carriers to get one approval for all of their apprenticeship programs from VA, simplifying the administration of these programs for motor carriers and allowing them to accommodate more veterans as truck drivers. “It’s unacceptable that veterans are losing employment opportunities due to unnecessary and redundant bureaucratic hurdles. Cutting this red tape so trucking companies can employ more veterans as truck drivers is a common-sense step that will increase opportunities for veterans as well as help address the trucking shortage,” said Congressman Pappas. “I’m pleased to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Congresswoman Kiggans that will streamline the approval process for interstate trucking company’s apprenticeship programs to partner with VA, ease the pathway for veterans to become truck drivers, and support the trucking industry.” “We owe it to our nation’s heroes to ensure they have the tools they need to make the often-difficult transition from service to civilian life,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “That is exactly what this commonsense legislation will do by cutting bureaucratic red tape and increasing access to trucking apprenticeships for our veterans. As a former Navy helicopter pilot and the representative for Coastal Virginia, which is home to so many who have served our country, it is an honor to advocate for bipartisan policies that help our veterans secure meaningful employment while also addressing the national trucking shortage and strengthening our supply chains.” “When members of the military return home after serving our country, we have an obligation to help them obtain rewarding careers and achieve the American Dream they fought to protect,” said American Trucking Associations Senior Vice President of Legislative Affairs Henry Hanscom. “We commend Representatives Pappas and Kiggans for introducing this commonsense solution that would make it easier to stand up apprenticeship programs for our nation’s veterans, expanding access to good-paying jobs in the trucking industry and strengthening our supply chain. We look forward to working with Congress to enact this commonsense reform into law.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/senator-hassan-rep-pappas-highlight-pact-act-two-year-anniversary-with-roundtable-conversation-with-new-hampshire-veteran-community,"Senator Hassan, Rep. Pappas Highlight PACT Act Two Year Anniversary with Roundtable Conversation with New Hampshire Veteran Community",2024-08-09,2024,2024-08,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Ahead of the two-year anniversary of the Honoring Our PACT Act this weekend, U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (NH) and Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Ranking Member of the Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA) Subcommittee of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee (HVAC), joined New Hampshire veterans, local Veterans Service Organization (VSO) leaders, and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) representatives for a roundtable conversation on PACT Act implementation and veterans experiences since the historic legislation was signed into law. Earlier this year, the VA announced that more than one million PACT Act-related claims had been approved, including for more than 3,300 Granite State veterans. “It was great to hear from veterans, Veterans Service Organizations, and representatives from the VA about how PACT Act implementation has progressed in New Hampshire and how we can improve the process for veterans,” said Senator Hassan. “It was also important to hear from the VA about its inaccurate budget projections, and while we work in Congress to ensure that the VA gets the resources it needs to deliver the benefits that veterans have earned and deserved, we also need to prevent similar miscalculations from happening again.” “Two years ago, the PACT Act was signed into law, finally recognizing toxic exposure as a cost of war and fulfilling our promise to veterans who became sick due to their time in service. To date, thousands of New Hampshire veterans have filed PACT Act-related claims and have enrolled in VA care for the first time,"" said Congressman Chris Pappas. “As we continue outreach efforts to veterans and monitor VA’s implementation of this landmark legislation on the Veterans Affairs Committee, I’ll continue to have conversations with the New Hampshire veteran community to ensure they are being heard, their needs are being met, and that every toxic-exposed veteran and their survivors gets the benefits they need and have earned. Thank you to our veterans, VSOs, and VA representatives for joining this roundtable conversation and for the work you do every day to advocate and deliver for our veterans.” Senator Hassan helped negotiate and pass into law the PACT Act, which fundamentally reforms and improves how veterans exposed to toxic substances receive health care and benefits from the VA.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-joins-bipartisan-call-for-transparency-to-ensure-timely-mail-delivery-and-protect-postal-workers,Pappas Joins Bipartisan Call for Transparency to Ensure Timely Mail Delivery and Protect Postal Workers,2024-08-08,2024,2024-08,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined six bipartisan Members of Congress in a call for more transparency from U.S. Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster General Louis DeJoy regarding proposed changes at postal processing, distribution, and delivery facilities in New Hampshire and nationwide. In a letter to the USPS Board of Governors, the lawmakers noted the lack of adequate responses from Postmaster DeJoy when they raised concerns about how his Delivering for America plan would impact delivery rates and jeopardize jobs for postal employees. “Across the country, the Postmaster General has proposed changes at processing, distribution and delivery facilities, with many of these sites located in our districts,” wrote the Members. “Due to the impact on our districts and constituents, we raised questions and concerns regarding how these changes will impact our constituents, businesses within our communities, postal employees, and the overall efficiency of the Postal Service. Despite our persistent inquiries, the responses have been insufficient or nonexistent. “We understand the need for modernization within the Postal Service; however, these changes must be integrated with a commitment to improving service standards and protecting the livelihoods of postal employees. Transparency and accountability are vital in this process. Our constituents deserve to know how these changes will affect their daily lives. As their elected Members of Congress, we require direct, detailed, and timely information to provide appropriate oversight and to help the Postal Service prepare our constituents for the upcoming changes,” they continued. The full text of the letter can be found here. The letter is also signed by Representatives Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Jim Costa (CA-21), Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Adrian Smith (NE-03). Background: Pappas continues to lead efforts to improve and reform the USPS to ensure that Granite Staters receive their mail in a timely manner. In February 2022, Pappas helped pass the Postal Service Reform Act in the House to address long standing financial and structural issues at the USPS and held a virtual roundtable conversation with representatives and leadership from New Hampshire's postal workers to discuss the importance of the bill. It was signed into law in April 2022. In February, the New Hampshire delegation sent a letter to Postmaster General DeJoy expressing concerns about plans for the Manchester Processing and Distribution Center, noting that they could be damaging to mail service in New Hampshire and urging the USPS to reconsider. The delegation also raised these concerns at a press conference outside the facility. The USPS received an outpouring of negative feedback from Granite Staters and postal workers, amplified by the Congressional delegation and other stakeholders, on its plans. In April, Pappas and Shaheen joined a bipartisan, bicameral push opposing USPS’s recent nationwide consolidation and review announcements that could severely diminish mail service reliability for postal networks across the country. Pappas, Hassan, and Shaheen introduced bicameral, bipartisan legislation to prohibit USPS from consolidating, closing, or downgrading a processing and distribution center if it would leave a state without one or negatively impact mail delivery across a state.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-moylan-golden-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-green-to-gold-program-participants-benefits,"Pappas, Moylan, Golden Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Green to Gold Program Participants’ Benefits",2024-08-05,2024,2024-08,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Last week Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01), James Moylan (GU-AL), and Jared Golden (ME-02) introduced the Save the Green to Gold Program Act. This bipartisan legislation would ensure servicemembers participation in the Army’s Green-to-Gold (G2G) Active Duty Option Program is recognized toward their Time in Service (TIS) calculation, which determines future pay and retirement benefits. “The Green-to-Gold Active Duty Program has historically allowed active duty Army soldiers the opportunity to simultaneously serve, advance within the Army, and obtain a degree without any impact on their prospective military careers. However, recent Army policy changes for soldiers’ Time in Service accruement for the program threaten their future pay and retirement benefits,” said Congressman Pappas. “The soldiers who participate in this program have already dedicated themselves to serving our country, commit to remaining on Active Duty, and seek to further their military careers and service. This bipartisan legislation will protect the benefits that Army soldiers participating in the program rightly deserve, and I thank Congressmen Moylan and Golden for joining me in this effort.” “Through the Save the Green to Gold Program Act, we uphold our duty to support our military personnel in their professional growth and long-term service to the nation. This act ensures their sacrifices and dedication are recognized and rewarded. I want to thank Rep. Pappas and Rep. Golden for their shared commitment to our armed forces and ask my colleagues in Congress to support this measure,” said Rep. Moylan. “I’m proud to work with Rep. Pappas to ensure that every moment of a soldier’s service is rewarded,” Rep. Golden said. “Soldiers who work hard to obtain the training and education needed to become an officer should have that time counted when the Army determines their eligibility for retirement and promotions — just like it is for the other branches. Our proposal will ensure parity between the departments of our military and fair benefits for our soldiers.” The G2G Active Duty Program offers eligible enlisted active duty Army soldiers the opportunity to pursue a degree and become commissioned Army officers upon the attainment of their degree. The Army has traditionally counted soldier time enrolled in university as part of TIS for both pay and retirement purposes, making the program a popular pathway to advancement within the Army while also enabling servicemembers to obtain a degree. On April 28, 2023, the U.S. Army Cadet Command revised its ROTC Program policies, including the G2G Active Duty Option Program. This marks a stark departure from the Army’s prior application of its authority under the law regarding TIS accrual during program participation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-calls-on-congress-to-address-veterans-benefits-funding,Pappas Calls on Congress to Address Veterans Benefits Funding,2024-08-02,2024,2024-08,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Following the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) notification to Congress of an anticipated funding shortfall by September 20, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), a member of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, wrote to Speaker Mike Johnson urging Congress to work in a bipartisan fashion to pass emergency supplemental funding to safeguard the benefits of millions of veterans across the country. Until additional funding is allocated, the compensation and pension payments to over 7 million veterans and survivors remain at risk. Pappas wrote: “Late last month, VA informed Congress of anticipated funding shortfalls before the end of Fiscal Year 2024, largely due to the PACT Act exceeding expectations in terms of attracting veterans who are enrolling in VA health care for the first time. In addition, VA has seen higher-than-expected veteran enrollment for VA benefits since the PACT Act was signed into law, as more veterans are receiving disability compensation and pension benefits. Furthermore, VA is already on track to award 20% more in GI Bill education benefits to newly eligible veterans and dependents under the legislation compared to last year.” The letter continued: “On behalf of veterans across New Hampshire, I stand ready to work with leadership on both sides of the aisle and urge you to work in a bipartisan, bicameral fashion to expeditiously pass clean emergency supplemental funding legislation to ensure our veterans and their families receive the benefits they have earned.” The letter also highlighted Pappas’s consistent efforts to hold VA accountable and ensure veterans get the care they need: “I have previously joined members of both parties in highlighting our serious concerns about VA’s budgetary plans as a member of the House Veterans Affairs’ Committee, which would neglect modernization needs and divert funding from VA health care. In this serious situation, time is of the essence. I plan to work in a bipartisan fashion with my colleagues to further investigate this shortfall, but with a deadline of less than a month and half, failure to immediately address this issue is not an option.” Congressman Pappas has consistently pressed VA on the need to effectively implement the Honoring Our PACT Act and meet the needs of veterans seeking care for toxic exposure and other issues. Pappas's VA Workforce Investment and Expansion Act, which expands VA workforce by enhancing hiring practices and incentives to recruit and retain health care professionals, was included in that legislation. Pappas has sounded the alarm on the Veterans Affairs' Committee about VA’s concerning budgetary decisions, backlogs at VA, and addressing issues that delay veterans from accessing the care they need, including bringing to light over a year ago his concerns about increased demand on VA following the passage of the PACT Act. In March 2023, Pappas pressed VA Secretary Denis McDonough over PACT Act implementation and has made implementation a top priority this Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-statement-on-erdogan-s-threat-to-invade-israel,Pappas Statement on Erdogan’s Threat to Invade Israel,2024-08-01,2024,2024-08,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Co-Chair of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus, released a statement denouncing Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's dangerous statements that Turkey may attack Israel: ""I condemn President Erdogan’s dangerous threats to attack Israel in the strongest possible terms. President Erdogan and his government’s long-standing political, logistical, and financial support for Hamas is well-known and puts the lives of innocent civilians at risk every day. Any effort by Turkey to violate Israel's sovereignty, especially during the ongoing war with Hamas and Hezbollah, would be a direct threat to U.S. national security interests and would only serve to further destabilize the region. President Erdogan must be roundly condemned and held accountable for his increasingly belligerent rhetoric towards America’s democratic allies like Israel."" President Erdogan has repeatedly refused to acknowledge Hamas as a terrorist organization, including in the wake of the deadly October 7th terrorist attack in Israel. Pappas has denounced the Erdogan government for making Turkey a sanctuary for Hamas, with experts describing it as the second-largest Hamas base after Gaza, with Hamas's Istanbul base of operations functioning as a crucial hub for strengthening Hamas's capacity to launch attacks against Israel. Pappas has been a leader in Congress for holding Turkey accountable for its unprovoked aggression in the region and has led the bipartisan opposition to the United States selling F-16s and modernization kits to Turkey.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-combat-fentanyl-crisis-crack-down-on-drug-trafficking,"Pappas Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Fentanyl Crisis, Crack Down on Drug Trafficking",2024-07-31,2024,2024-07,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined Representatives María Elvira Salazar (FL-27), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Chris Smith (NJ-04), Mike Lawler (NY-17), Dina Titus (NV-01), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Rich McCormick (GA-06), and Brad Schneider (IL-10) in introducing the Destruction Initiative for Stored Precursors Overseas and Safe Enforcement (DISPOSE) Act. This bipartisan legislation will create fentanyl and precursor chemical destruction facilities in three critical drug trafficking choke points: Mexico, Colombia, and Peru. Senators Chuck Grassley (IA), Jeanne Shaheen (NH), and Jim Risch (ID) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. Fentanyl and other synthetic drugs have taken the lives of tens of thousands of Americans. This legislation deals with the problem by developing a strategy to locate, identify, and safely destroy fentanyl precursor chemicals before they reach the United States. “Fentanyl overdoses continue to kill Americans in record numbers, and it is of the utmost importance that we are taking common sense steps to stop the flow of deadly substances over our borders and into our communities, crack down on traffickers, and save lives,” said Rep. Pappas. “I join this bipartisan group of my colleagues in introducing the DISPOSE Act which will increase the United States’ collaboration with Mexico, Colombia, and Peru to establish centers that identify and destroy fentanyl and precursor drugs before they reach American soil. I strongly urge House leadership to swiftly bring this bipartisan bill to the floor for a vote.” “I’m proud to join Senator Grassley in introducing this bill that would facilitate United States engagement with our partners abroad to destroy seized drugs and prevent them from making it to our borders,” said Senator Shaheen. “This legislation would work to ensure that these dangerous drugs are not diverted back into the illicit drug supply chain and are destroyed in environmentally responsible ways.” “Fentanyl is killing thousands of Americans, and we can no longer afford to sit still as our enemies flood our communities with these dangerous drugs,” said Rep. Salazar. “The DISPOSE Act will combat the crisis by working with our partners in Latin America to destroy these drugs well before they cross our borders.” The DISPOSE Act establishes the Precursor Chemical Destruction Initiative to fight drug trafficking with our partners in the Western Hemisphere. Working directly with partner countries, the Initiative will: Increase rates of seizure and destruction of listed chemicals in beneficiary countries; Alleviate the backlog of seized chemicals and dispose them in an environmentally safe and effective manner; Ensure that the seized chemicals are not reintroduced into the illicit drug production network within beneficiary countries; Free up storage space for future chemical seizures within beneficiary countries; and Reduce the chemicals’ negative environmental impact.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-helps-introduce-the-campus-prevention-and-recovery-services-for-students-act,Pappas Helps Introduce the Campus Prevention and Recovery Services for Students Act,2024-07-30,2024,2024-07,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), a member of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force, joined Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), David Trone (MD-06), and Lucy McBath (GA-07) in introducing the Campus Prevention and Recovery Services for Students Act to help higher education institutions implement programs to prevent alcohol and substance misuse on campus and support those with substance use disorders. If passed, the bill would fund college prevention and recovery services at $75 million over five years. “A comprehensive approach to confronting the addiction epidemic must include both prevention efforts and recovery services as well as a focus on young people,” said Rep. Pappas. “This bill provides critical steps forward by bringing evidence-informed treatment to our colleges and universities to educate students on substance misuse and help those working to overcome substance use disorder. The addiction crisis is deeply personal for New Hampshire families, and I will continue supporting efforts that address its root causes, strengthen prevention efforts, and ensure individuals in need receive proper support to recover.” “Addiction is painful for everyone involved. Families suffer when we lose loved ones to overdose. College students too often find themselves isolated and without the support network to help when addiction and alcoholism creep in. I never want to see another headline of a promising young person lost to overdose,” said Rep. Leger Fernández. “My bill will fund prevention and recovery services on college campuses across the United States that are based on science and managed with love. This is a critical step to support young Americans – ensuring a healthy and safe campus environment.” “The opioid crisis has ruthlessly swept through our nation targeting everyone in its path, including those on college campuses,” said Rep. Congressman Trone, co-chair of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force. “Students and college presidents in Maryland are struggling to get the resources to address substance use disorder on their campuses, especially on the heels of a pandemic when many students were already grappling with mental health challenges. This legislation meets the moment to provide much-needed funding and provide our students with the help they need.” “We owe it to families to provide strong support systems for their children who are navigating life away from home for the first time,” said Rep. McBath. “Alcohol and substance misuse does not discriminate and troublingly, the rate of these instances is on the rise. I am very proud to join with my colleagues yet again to champion this effort which will help our institutions of higher education implement programs to prevent substance abuse and support the recovery of students with substance use disorders.” The Campus Prevention and Recovery Services for Students Act: Promotes evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies on college campuses. Encourages integration and collaboration in campus-based health services to address substance use and mental health. Requires the Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services to identify and promote successful programs. Revitalizes a grant program to help institutions implement programs. Read the full bill text HERE. “Young adults are grappling with increasing rates of mental health and substance use challenges, yet far too often institutions of higher education lack the resources to support them,” National Council for Mental Wellbeing President and CEO Chuck Ingoglia said. “We commend this effort to fund critical treatment and recovery services, along with peer support and training to help faculty, staff and students recognize and respond to those who are in distress. This legislation would provide campus-based health centers with additional resources to support the students who rely on them for care.” “Through both education and critically needed support for our students in higher education, the Campus Prevention and Recovery Services for Students Act will enhance collaboration among departments of health and our higher education institutions in combating alcohol and substance misuse,” Whitney Holland, President, American Federation of Teachers New Mexico said. “Equipping our students with knowledge to make informed decisions respects them as young adults while working to provide them the tools to make healthy choices. We thank Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez for being a strong champion for the health and wellbeing of our campus communities.” “On behalf of the American College Health Association (ACHA), I express support and thanks for Congresswoman Leger Fernández's Campus Prevention and Recovery Services for Students Act. This legislation represents a significant opportunity to advance the health, safety, and well-being of emerging adults across our nation’s college and university campuses. As an organization focused on the health and well-being of the higher education community, we recognize the growing need for comprehensive prevention and recovery services to address the myriad challenges that students face, including substance use disorders and mental health issues. We thank Rep. Leger Fernández for leading in this necessary work and encourage her fellow Members to support the bill and provide federal funding needed to assist in its proper implementation,” said James Wilkinson, MA CAE, CEO, American College Health Association (ACHA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-introduces-package-of-bipartisan-veterans-bills,Pappas Introduces Package of Bipartisan Veterans Bills,2024-07-22,2024,2024-07,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Last week Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Ranking Member of the Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA) Subcommittee of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee (HVAC), introduced three bipartisan bills to improve processes at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and expand eligibility for survivors’ benefits, insurance coverage, and burial processes. These bills are the Gulf War Survivor Benefits Update Act, co-led by Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02), as well as the VA Insurance Improvement Act, and Veterans’ Burial Improvement Act, both co-led by Congressman James Moylan (GU-AL). “Service members, veterans, and their families deserve our utmost respect for the sacrifices they make for us and our country. These bipartisan bills not only make commonsense improvements to these programs but expand and enhance access to VA survivors, insurance, and burial benefits,” said Congressman Pappas. “My legislation protects the survivors pensions of Gulf War spouses and dependents, makes all veterans under the age of 81 years old eligible for VA Life Insurance, and safeguards VA’s ability to bury spouses and dependents who predecease service members. We must ensure our veterans receive the benefits and services they are owed, and I’ll continue working to address the needs of service members, veterans, and their families in New Hampshire and across the country.” “Spouses of our veterans who have gone before us have also made tremendous sacrifices on behalf of our nation, and this legislation will give the spouses of Gulf War veterans peace of mind that their sacrifices will not go unnoticed. I am proud to partner with Congressman Pappas on this commonsense legislation and will always be an advocate for our veterans and military families,” said Congressman Yakym. “I'm proud to co-lead the VA Insurance Improvement Act and Veterans’ Burial Improvement Act alongside my colleague, Rep. Pappas. Both of these bills are important steps towards honoring our commitment to veterans and their families who have made immense sacrifices for our country. This legislation is a small token of our appreciation for their service and dedication,” said Congressman Moylan. Background: The Gulf War Survivor Benefits Update Act would ensure surviving spouses of Gulf War veterans remain eligible for survivors’ pension by extending the statutory marriage delimiting date. The VA Insurance Improvement Act would improve and update VA insurance coverage. Specifically, it would: Extend eligibility for VA Life Insurance (VALife) coverage for all veterans under 81 years old, regardless of service-connected disability status; Allow for Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI) administrative expenses to be reimbursed from the VMLI program funds; Add Space Force to the definition of “uniformed service” for the purpose of eligibility for the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) program. The Veterans’ Burial Improvement Act would update burial standards and eligibility for service members’ families, Medal of Honor recipients, and veterans. Specifically, it would:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-applauds-extension-of-medicaid-waiver-expanding-substance-use-disorder-treatment-availability-in-nh-0,NH Delegation Applauds Extension of Medicaid Waiver Expanding Substance Use Disorder Treatment Availability in NH,2024-07-18,2024,2024-07,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation applauded the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) extension of a waiver that will allow New Hampshire to continue providing Medicaid payments for individuals receiving substance use disorder services, short-term inpatient psychiatric treatment and short-term residential mental health treatment for serious mental illness. As part of the extension, the state will also implement a new Community Reentry component designed to improve formerly incarcerated individuals’ transitions back into their communities by enhancing care coordination pre-release. In June, the delegation wrote a letter in support of this extension, requested by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, to help the state continue to meet the high demand for substance use disorder treatment. “Access to substance use disorder and mental health treatment is critical as we continue working to combat the addiction epidemic and help Granite Staters in need,” said Congressman Pappas. “This extension will save lives and improve outcomes by strengthening access and care coordination. I’ll keep advocating for solutions that will help New Hampshire make progress in confronting the addiction and mental health crisis."" “As New Hampshire continues to feel the effects of the substance use disorder crisis, including 430 overdose deaths in 2023, every effort must be made to help deliver services to those who need them most,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m very pleased that CMS approved an extension of this critical waiver that has already helped many Granite Staters access a wide range of life-saving care options.” “Expanding access to addiction treatment is crucial as we continue working to combat the fentanyl crisis, and treating people in jail or prison before they re-enter society will help them continue to get addiction care and stay in recovery once they return home,” said Senator Hassan. “I am pleased that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has heeded our call and allowed New Hampshire to help more people get the care that they need, including medication-assisted treatment, the gold standard for addiction care.” “New Hampshire is no stranger to the devastating impacts of the opioid epidemic and overdose crisis, and the state’s Section 1115 Medicaid demonstration waiver has played a critical role in providing the treatment and support necessary for those in the criminal justice system to heal, recover, and thrive upon release,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “This crucial extension will allow New Hampshire to better coordinate treatment and care services for inmates, help reduce recidivism rates, and most importantly, improve health outcomes for justice-involved individuals when they reenter their communities. I will continue pushing for an all-of-the-above government response to tackle the addiction and mental health crisis gripping our country."" The waiver addresses the Medicaid Institution for Mental Diseases exclusion, which bars Medicaid matching funds from being used to treat Medicaid beneficiaries in mental health facilities with more than 16 beds. This exclusion places burdens on smaller facilities to meet service capacity needs that exceed the smaller facilities’ resources. The delegation first successfully advocated for the approval of the waiver in 2018.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:32:29Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-buchanan-introduce-the-stop-crimes-against-children-act,"Pappas, Buchanan Introduce the Stop Crimes Against Children Act",2024-07-11,2024,2024-07,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congressman Vern Buchanan (FL-16) introduced the Stop Crimes Against Children Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen efforts to identify, prevent, and respond to crimes against children. The legislation would amend the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction, a Department of Justice (DOJ) effort to put in place best practices in the prevention and interdiction of heinous and destructive acts of child exploitation. Specifically, the legislation would include a broader array of stakeholders and partners in the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction, including the nonprofit sector and institutions of higher education, and direct the strategy to include information on victim support. This will ensure that communities can leverage the full spectrum of expertise and resources alongside government and law enforcement agencies to keep children safe. “The fight against child exploitation and abuse requires an all hands-on-deck-effort, and that means bringing together stakeholders from a broad array of areas of expertise to put in place strategies that keep our kids safe,” said Congressman Pappas. “This bipartisan legislation ensures that leaders from the nonprofit sector and institutions of higher education, who are doing vital work to protect children from abuse, will be part of our national strategy alongside law enforcement and government agencies to identify, prevent, and respond to crimes against children. I remain committed to doing all I can to stop crimes against children, hold perpetrators accountable, and provide every resource available to keep children safe in New Hampshire and across the country.” “Technological advancements have tragically brought an increase in the potential for child abuse and exploitation, which is exactly what is happening to our nation’s children at alarming rates,” said Congressman Buchanan. “In fact, from 2016 to 2021, the number of reported tips concerning child sexual exploitation received by the DOJ skyrocketed more than four times to a staggering 83,000. Since then, the problem has only gotten worse which is why I am pleased to help introduce the Stop Crimes Against Children Act with Congressman Pappas to increase collaboration between universities, nonprofits and law enforcement to crack down on these horrific crimes against children.” “The Stop Crimes Against Children Act will effectively bolster the DOJ’s National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction. Because of this bill, organizations like UNH’s highly-regarded Crimes Against Children Research Center will more easily make their knowledge available to craft the national strategy. We are excited by this bill’s potential to help survivors and their families and decrease the toll of crimes against children.” – Dr. David Finkelhor, Director of UNH Crimes Against Children Research Center",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-announces-226-million-in-federal-funds-for-public-transit-updates-and-upgrades-in-manchester-durham,"NH Delegation Announces $22.6 Million in Federal Funds for Public Transit Updates and Upgrades in Manchester, Durham",2024-07-09,2024,2024-07,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation applauded the announcement that $22.6 million in federal funding is being awarded to public transit improvement projects in Manchester and Durham. The Manchester Transit Authority will receive $19.9 million through the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Bus and Bus Facilities Grant Program for the construction of a new transit center which will replace the city's outdated facility and enable an expansion of transit services in the region. The University of New Hampshire will receive $2.7 million through the FY24 Low and No Emission Grant Program to replace diesel-powered buses with compressed natural gas buses for its Wildcat Transit service. “Improved transit resources are vital for New Hampshire families and communities, as well as an important driver of economic development throughout the state. I advocated for these federal funds for Manchester and Durham and voted to pass the bipartisan infrastructure bill to help rebuild New Hampshire’s roads and bridges, invest in transit, and create good-paying jobs. I’m pleased that these projects are moving forward, and I remain committed to returning more federal dollars to New Hampshire communities,” said Congressman Pappas. “Transportation helps drive growth for local economies and connects communities and Granite Staters to opportunity and to one another,” said Senator Shaheen. “This federal funding will provide crucial updates and upgrades to the public transit systems in Manchester and Durham, supporting continued economic growth in these regions while making progress toward our clean energy goals.” “Investing in public transit helps people get to work, reduce traffic, and strengthen our economy,” said Senator Hassan. “I worked to help develop and pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to make projects like these possible, which will help Manchester build a new transit center and help UNH modernize its fleet of buses for students.” “Investing in public transportation helps keep our air clean, our communities healthy, and can offset some of the worst impacts of climate change,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Manchester and Durham are set to receive significant resources to expand their transportation infrastructure and replace diesel-powered buses with modern, energy-efficient models. I look forward to seeing the positive impact these investments will have on keeping our communities connected and helping Granite Staters get where they need to go.” “Today, 117 communities, including Manchester and Durham, are receiving the good news that their transit buses are being modernized and their commutes improved through President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “The Biden-Harris Administration is helping agencies across 47 states replace old buses running on dirty, expensive fuels by delivering modern and zero-emission buses, manufactured by American workers, that will connect more people to where they need to go.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-applauds-44-million-award-for-regen-valley-tech-hub,NH Delegation Applauds $44 Million Award for ReGen Valley Tech Hub,2024-07-02,2024,2024-07,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, the New Hampshire delegation applauded $44 million in federal funding awarded to the ReGen Valley Tech Hub through the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act that the full delegation supported. The ReGen Valley Consortium, led by Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute (ARMI), was designated as a Tech Hub by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) in 2023. The funding award will help accelerate Southern New Hampshire’s growth into a global epicenter for the production and distribution of regenerative cells, tissues and organs and help further bolster the nation’s economic and national security. Shaheen and Pappas joined U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves in Manchester for the announcement. “ReGen Valley Tech Hub firmly places Manchester and New Hampshire as a leader in biofabrication,” said Congressman Pappas. “I supported the CHIPS and Science Act, which established the Tech Hubs program, and this award will further help recruit and retain a biofabrication workforce as well as increase awareness and adoption of regenerative therapies. Thanks to the dedication of the partners and stakeholders in this effort, ReGen Valley Tech Hub is doing state-of-the-art work that will save lives. I will continue to advocate for federal investments in biofabrication, innovation, and domestic manufacturing.” “Today’s announcement further proves Southern New Hampshire’s enormous potential and how the region is poised not only to drive innovation in biofabrication, but to also emerge as a new industrial powerhouse and global competitor,” said Senator Shaheen. “This award to ReGen Valley will enable the creation of more good jobs right here in New Hampshire, the development of the technology that will save lives and help bolster our STEM workforce pipeline. I thank Deputy Secretary Graves for joining me today in Manchester for this exciting announcement.” “The ReGen Valley Tech Hub and ARMI are making New Hampshire an epicenter for biofabrication innovation and technology, forging critical advances for both our health care and our national security,” said Senator Hassan. “In 2022, I worked to pass into law bipartisan legislation to strengthen our supply chains, lower costs, and build more manufacturing in the United States – and to make projects like the ReGen Valley Tech Hub a reality. With this latest round of federal funding, I look forward to seeing all that ReGen Valley and ARMI will continue to do to strengthen New Hampshire’s workforce and make scientific and technological advances.” “The pioneering work being undertaken by the ReGen Valley Consortium is driving medical innovation and the future of care,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “From investing in the future of our biofabrication workforce and creating good-paying jobs right here at home to leading advancements in regenerative medicine and therapies, this significant funding will help ensure New Hampshire remains a leader in developing transformative technologies for the region and our country.” “The ReGen Valley Tech Hub awards builds on foundational investment by the U.S. Department of Defense. With this place-based funding, the vision to make ReGen Valley the epicenter of biofabrication is becoming real – manufacturing the cells, tissues, and organs that will transform healthcare and save lives across the country and around the world,” said ARMI Executive Director Dean Kamen.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-statement-on-gop-funding-bills-that-inject-extreme-politics-into-bipartisan-process-threaten-national-security,"Pappas Statement on GOP Funding Bills that Inject Extreme Politics into Bipartisan Process, Threaten National Security",2024-06-28,2024,2024-06,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released a statement following extreme House Republicans hijacking the government funding process: “Congress has an obligation to make good on our commitment to the American people to fund the government and provide the vital resources necessary to ensure our national defense, support working families, and maintain American leadership on the global stage. Unfortunately, the Republican majority has hijacked this process to score political points rather than provide for the wellbeing of Granite Staters. Extreme Republicans have politicized this process by adding dangerous, partisan language to gut border security funding, limit access to abortion and health care services, target LGBTQ+ individuals, and even attempted to add banning IVF treatment. I cannot support legislation that puts politics before people, and that’s why the Senate and House must come together to put aside partisanship and focus on the needs of everyday Americans. I look forward to supporting bipartisan, compromise legislation that does just that.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-announces-29-million-in-federal-funds-for-infrastructure-projects-in-claremont-seacoast,"NH Delegation Announces $2.9 Million in Federal Funds for Infrastructure Projects in Claremont, Seacoast",2024-06-27,2024,2024-06,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today the New Hampshire delegation applauded the announcement that $2.9 million in federal funding is being awarded to two infrastructure improvement projects in New Hampshire. The federal grants, which members of the delegation supported, will be allocated through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant program. The City of Claremont will receive $1.5 million for its Claremont Access, Restoration, Development and Safety (CARDS) Initiative, which will support improvements including sidewalks, bicycle lanes and drainage systems to Charlestown Road and New Hampshire Route 11. The Rockingham Planning Commission will receive $1.4 million to convert more than two miles of railway corridor to rail trail from Hampton to Seabrook. “From active transportation projects such as rail trails and bike lanes to water infrastructure upgrades like storm drains and water lines, these federal funds are supporting projects in New Hampshire that will improve quality of life of residents and visitors alike,” said Congressman Pappas. “I’ll continue to support smart investments into our infrastructure and communities that boost our economy and the well-being of Granite Staters.” “I was proud to advocate for these projects, and I’m thrilled that this federal funding will support transformative infrastructure projects in Claremont and on the Seacoast to improve transportation,” said Senator Shaheen. “By helping restore and improve existing roadways in Claremont and revitalize unused railway on the Seacoast, this funding will help improve the lives of Granite Staters living in these communities.” “It’s great news that the City of Claremont and the Rockingham Planning Commission are receiving new funding through the bipartisan infrastructure law that will help strengthen these communities,” said Senator Hassan. “I was glad to advocate for this funding, which will help move forward much-needed road infrastructure improvements in Claremont and new trails for Granite Staters and tourists alike on the Seacoast.” “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver transformative investments to communities across New Hampshire, and I’m pleased to see these funds heading to Claremont and Rockingham county,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “These resources will go a long way toward improving Claremont’s road and water infrastructure and Rockingham county’s planned rail trail extension for residents and visitors to enjoy. I look forward to seeing the positive impact these investments will have on our communities for years to come.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-announces-more-than-4-million-in-federal-funding-to-fuel-economic-cultural-and-educational-development-in-rural-communities-across-new-hampshire,"NH Delegation Announces More Than $4 Million in Federal Funding to Fuel Economic, Cultural and Educational Development in Rural Communities Across New Hampshire",2024-06-27,2024,2024-06,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation announced today that the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is providing over $4.1 million through seven New Hampshire Catalyst Program awards to support economic, educational and community development projects in rural areas across the state. These awards will go to projects that will improve critical infrastructure, increase affordable housing, strengthen education facilities, and more. Full list of New Hampshire awardees here. “These awards from the Northern Border Regional Commission will invest in our housing stock and water infrastructure, mental health and child care facilities, arts and conservation efforts, and more,” said Congressman Pappas. “I fought to secure funding for these projects that support economic and community development in New Hampshire communities and invest in our future. I will continue supporting efforts that grow our economy, protect our environment, and support Granite State families.” “Today’s funding announcement demonstrates our steadfast commitment to investing in our rural New Hampshire communities. The projects supported by these federal dollars will deliver tangible improvements and services for local residents and surrounding areas - creating good jobs and helping fuel our state’s economy,” said Senator Shaheen. “By securing robust federal funding for the Northern Border Regional Commission, we’re funding projects expanding affordable housing, strengthening rural mental health care, increasing accessible education and improving our outdoor recreation.” “The Northern Border Regional Commission provides critical support for New Hampshire’s rural communities, which are an integral part of our state’s economy,” said Senator Hassan. “I am glad to see this important federal funding headed to New Hampshire to help expand mental health care facilities, child care resources, and other important resources that help our communities thrive.” “The Northern Border Regional Commission continues to be a tremendous asset to communities across northern New Hampshire, and I’m thrilled to see these resources heading to our state,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “From expanding access to affordable child care services and housing in rural communities to conserving our state’s pristine environment, these investments demonstrate the positive impact the Northern Border Regional Commission has on our state and region.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-statement-on-second-dobbs-anniversary,Pappas Statement on Second Dobbs Anniversary,2024-06-24,2024,2024-06,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On the second anniversary of the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), a member of the House Pro-Choice Caucus, released the following statement: “Two years ago, the Supreme Court ripped away reproductive rights that had been guaranteed for 50 years. The vast majority of people in New Hampshire and across the country support the right to choose and access to safe, legal abortion. But this ruling opened the door for states and Congress to enact extremist laws blocking women’s access to a range of reproductive health care, from abortion to birth control. I firmly believe that no judge or politician should dictate a person's private health care decisions. I’ll continue fighting to pass legislation that will restore access to reproductive care and the right to privacy, and I will not give up until we safeguard the personal freedoms of all Americans.” On June 24, 2022, the United States Supreme Court issued its ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, which overturned the 50-year-old federal right to an abortion established under Roe v. Wade and upset decades of settled law. Two years later, 23 million women live in states where abortion is now banned or more restricted than before the ruling was issued. Background: Pappas is fighting to pass the Women’s Health Protection Act, which would enshrine into law vital protections previously guaranteed by Roe v. Wade and restore the right to reproductive care for everyone across America, and signed a discharge petition to bring the legislation to the House floor for a vote in the 118th Congress. Pappas is also fighting to pass the Right to Contraception Act, which would codify and strengthen the right for individuals to get and use contraception, the My Body My Data Act, which protects personal reproductive health data, and the Protecting Reproductive Freedom Act, which reaffirms the FDA’s authority to approve medication abortion and safeguards health care provider’s ability to prescribe medication abortion via telehealth.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-statement-on-extreme-republicans-playing-politics-with-national-defense,Pappas Statement on Extreme Republicans Playing Politics with National Defense,2024-06-14,2024,2024-06,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement after extreme Republican members of the House of Representatives hijacked a historically bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to play politics with our service members and national security: “Extreme Republicans in Congress have again turned what should be a bipartisan process to support the military and safeguard our national security into a partisan exercise that degrades our readiness and harms our servicemembers. The addition of blatantly political amendments, including efforts to limit health care access and the personal freedoms of service members, target the LGBTQ+ community and put a political agenda ahead of our military personnel, makes this version something I cannot support. There are vital provisions in this legislation I have fought to secure, including military pay raises, addressing PFAS and toxic exposure, expanding access to affordable housing, child care, and mental health care to servicemembers, and ensuring our armed forces remain the strongest in the world. That’s why I urge the Senate and the House to come together to craft a bill that puts aside partisanship and truly focuses on our national security needs. I look forward to supporting a bipartisan, compromise version that strengthens our military and respects the service of our Armed Forces.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-announces-upcoming-pop-up-passport-fair,Pappas Announces Upcoming Pop-Up Passport Fair,2024-06-13,2024,2024-06,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) announced his office, in collaboration with the National Passport Center, will host a Pop-Up Passport Fair to assist First District constituents with their passport-related issues, including applying for a passport for the first time or renewing an existing passport. The event will take place on Wednesday, June 26th, from 12:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. at the Mall of New Hampshire at the JCPenney Court. Staff from the National Passport Center will be available by appointment to assist individuals with passport applications or renewals. Those interested should register here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-pappas-s-bipartisan-bills-to-improve-access-to-resources-for-rural-small-businesses-entrepreneurs-with-disabilities,"House Passes Pappas’s Bipartisan Bills to Improve Access to Resources for Rural Small Businesses, Entrepreneurs with Disabilities",2024-06-12,2024,2024-06,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday the House passed two bipartisan bills led by Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) with unanimous, bipartisan support, the Rural Small Business Resilience Act and the ThinkDIFFERENTLY About Disability Employment Act. “Entrepreneurs and small businesses face a range of unique challenges, and we know a one-size-fits-all approach by government agencies to provide support they need is simply ineffective,” said Congressman Pappas. “The House passed two of my pieces of legislation with bipartisan support which will require SBA to tailor its outreach and marketing efforts to reach rural businesses, as well as to ensure individuals with disabilities have equal access to pursue small business ownership and employment opportunities. I remain committed to ensuring our Main Street economy can grow and thrive, and I urge the Senate to swiftly take these bills up to deliver them to the President’s desk to improve support for these small businesses and entrepreneurs.” Background: The Rural Small Business Resilience Act would require the Small Business Administration (SBA) to develop specific outreach policies and procedures for rural communities and ensure that rural small businesses have full access to SBA assistance, specifically tailoring outreach and marketing plans for SBA's Disaster Loan Program to address challenges rural communities face in accessing disaster relief. The ThinkDIFFERENTLY About Disability Employment Act would require SBA and the National Council on Disability to collaborate to help people with disabilities pursue small business ownership and employment opportunities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-announces-13th-experience-new-hampshire-reception-in-washington-dc,"NH Delegation Announces 13th Experience New Hampshire Reception in Washington, DC",2024-06-11,2024,2024-06,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation announced today that the New Hampshire State Society Event, “Experience New Hampshire,” will return to Capitol Hill on Wednesday, June 12th. The New Hampshire delegation and other members of Congress will attend the event, which exhibits Granite State businesses and their first-class products in the U.S. Capitol. This year’s event marks the New Hampshire State Society’s 13th year hosting the reception. “Each year, Experience New Hampshire brings our state’s incredible small businesses to our nation’s capital to share their unique products and services as well as Granite State culture,” said Congressman Pappas. “Small businesses drive our economy and way of life, and I’m pleased to once again join our federal delegation in welcoming guests to this popular event and look forward to seeing local New Hampshire businesses in Washington.” “New Hampshire is home to some of the greatest small businesses in the country and this event provides an annual opportunity to showcase their diverse products and talents on a national stage,” said Senator Shaheen. “Year after year I am blown away by the goods and services our small businesses bring to DC, thanks to the New Hampshire State Society, which helps make the event an annual success. From chocolate to hot sauce, these businesses will share our state’s entrepreneurial spirit and talent with folks in Washington.” “Experience New Hampshire is a showcase for New Hampshire’s thriving small business ecosystem,” said Senator Hassan. “This annual event highlights the diversity of our small business community — from our thriving outdoor recreation sector to our vibrant small farms, local eateries, and maple producers. It is always great to have Granite Staters in the Capitol and it is particularly exciting when entrepreneurs and New Hampshire enthusiasts come together for this yearly celebration — the room bustles with the unique energy and goodwill that reflects our state at its best. It’s really fun to share this spirit with people from all across the country.” “Our Granite State small business owners and entrepreneurs demonstrate why New Hampshire is such a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “Experience New Hampshire is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and recognize the talents and contributions of our state’s business leaders and communities. I want to thank Senator Shaheen and the New Hampshire State Society for organizing this event year after year and I’m looking forward to another fantastic night!""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-announces-approval-of-nh-s-internet-for-all-initial-proposal,NH Delegation Announces Approval of NH’s “Internet for All” Initial Proposal,2024-06-11,2024,2024-06,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today the New Hampshire delegation announced the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) approval of New Hampshire’s Initial Proposals for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program of the “Internet for All” initiative. This approval enables New Hampshire to request more than $196 million to begin implementation of the BEAD program—a major step towards closing the digital divide and connecting Granite Staters with affordable, reliable, high-speed Internet service. “Expanding high-speed Internet in New Hampshire helps close the digital equity gap, enabling our businesses to compete, communities to thrive, and Granite Staters to succeed,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “I supported the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to deliver critical investments into our communities from broadband to water infrastructure, and I’m pleased to see New Hampshire moving forward in this process. I will continue working to secure resources to improve quality of life and education and ensure broadband is available to all.” “Access to affordable and reliable high speed internet service is critical for millions of working families and businesses—especially in underserved communities,"" said Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “As a lead negotiator of the broadband provisions in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I’m pleased to see that New Hampshire is moving forward in the process, bringing the state closer to accessing nearly $200 million and closing the digital divide.” “Bringing reliable, high-speed Internet to more areas of New Hampshire is a critical part of supporting people and small businesses across the state,” said Senator Maggie Hassan. “One of my key priorities in helping develop the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was ensuring that it invested in necessary infrastructure for high-speed internet, and now through this law, New Hampshire is a major step closer to expanding access to high-speed Internet for tens of thousands of Granite Staters.” “Access to quality, reliable broadband is crucial to growing New Hampshire’s economy and helping our communities thrive, particularly in rural and historically underserved areas,” said Congresswoman Ann Kuster. “These significant resources made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s BEAD Program will expand broadband connectivity to more families, businesses, and communities across the Granite State and help to close the digital divide.” “Thanks to President Biden’s commitment to investing in America, New Hampshire and Colorado can move forward with implementing their plans to close the digital divide in their states,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. "" I commend the teams in Colorado and New Hampshire for creating a strong plan to ensure everyone in their states have access to affordable, reliable high-speed Internet service.” “Today, Colorado and New Hampshire can move their Internet for All efforts from planning to action,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator Alan Davidson. ""I congratulate the Colorado and New Hampshire State Broadband offices for developing a strong proposal for how they will connect all of their state’s residents to high-speed Internet service.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-pushes-for-vote-on-legislation-to-secure-access-to-contraception-for-granite-state-women,Pappas Pushes for Vote on Legislation to Secure Access to Contraception for Granite State Women,2024-06-06,2024,2024-06,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Following the Senate’s vote on the Right to Contraception Act and ahead of the 59th anniversary of Griswold v. Connecticut, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) signed a discharge petition to force a vote on the Right to Contraception Act in the House, which would codify and strengthen the right for individuals to access contraception. “Women have a right to the full range of reproductive health care, including abortion and contraception, and it’s clear that the far right will not stop at the Dobbs decision to turn back the clock on women's rights,” said Congressman Pappas. “As radical politicians and judges seek to block access for reproductive health care, I’m fighting to pass legislation to protect access to birth control and reproductive health care for all Americans. I remain committed to ensuring individuals can make their own private health care decisions and restoring the right to safe and legal abortion.” Pappas is a co-sponsor of the Protecting Reproductive Freedom Act, which reaffirms the FDA’s authority to approve medication abortion and safeguards health care providers’ ability to prescribe medication abortion via telehealth. Last year, prior to FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine reaching the Supreme Court,Pappas joined a bicameral amicus brief urging the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit to block the ruling. Pappas has fought to pass theWomen’s Health Protection Act, which would enshrine into law vital protections previously guaranteed by Roe v. Wade and restore the right to reproductive care for everyone across America, and signed adischarge petition to bring the legislation to the House floor for a vote in the 118th Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/following-pappas-advocacy-biden-administration-takes-needed-action-on-southern-border,"Following Pappas Advocacy, Biden Administration Takes Needed Action on Southern Border",2024-06-04,2024,2024-06,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released a statement following the Biden Administration’s announcement of a new executive order to take action on our southern border: “I have repeatedly called for both parties to come together to pass common-sense border legislation, and it’s unacceptable that House Republicans have blocked a compromise bill that would provide for greater security at the border. I have also called on the Biden Administration to use executive action to address this problem. The new provisions announced today will help improve the situation at the border and should have come sooner. We must do more, and this cannot be the end of the conversation. Congress and the administration must continue to act by setting aside politics and focusing on solutions that will provide the resources necessary to restore order at the border and policies to fix our broken immigration system.” Congressman Pappas has consistently pushed for a vote on bipartisan border legislation currently being blocked by congressional Republicans. Pappas has also urged the Biden Administration to take this kind of executive action as House Republican leadership refuses to act. Background: Pappas is a cosponsor of the Dignity Act which is comprehensive, bipartisan legislation to address security and infrastructure challenges at the border, hire additional border patrol personnel, establish new pathways for asylum seekers, and create a path to citizenship. In March, Pappas helped launch a new border security task force to focus on the need for comprehensive, bipartisan solutions to address the border and fix the broken immigration system. Later that month, Pappas helped to pass the fiscal year 2024 government funding package, which included a $3.2 billion increase in funding for Customs and Border Patrol (CPB), providing for a record 22,000 agents, including 150 counter-fentanyl officers, and needed investments in fentanyl detection equipment. In February, Pappas helped pass several pieces of legislation to strengthen deportation standards for foreign nationals who violate the law.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-s-legislation-to-designate-chief-edward-b-garone-post-office-in-east-derry-passes-house,Pappas’s Legislation to Designate ‘Chief Edward B. Garone Post Office’ in East Derry Passes House,2024-06-03,2024,2024-06,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) led the House in passing legislation to designate the East Derry Post Office as the Chief Edward B. Garone Post Office, in honor of the late Chief Edward B. Garone who served as Chief of Police in Derry for 50 years and as a law enforcement officer in New Hampshire for 58 years. Ahead of the vote, Pappas spoke on the House floor to share the impact Chief Garone had on his community throughout his career, the importance of honoring his legacy, and to urge his colleagues to support this legislation. “Chief Edward Garone served his country, state, and community as a Marine, as a police officer in New Hampshire for 58 years, and as Chief of Police in Derry for 50 years,” said Congressman Pappas. “He worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of citizens and the officers he oversaw and to build a better, stronger, safer Derry. The naming of this Post Office is one small way we can continue to honor his legacy of leadership, professionalism, and excellence in service to the community. Today, I’m thinking of his friends, family, and especially his wife, Blanche, and on behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire’s First Congressional District, I applaud the passage of this legislation to pay tribute to Chief Garone, a man who embodied the very best of the Granite State.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/new-hampshire-congressional-delegation-honors-fallen-service-members-at-memorial-day-event,New Hampshire Congressional Delegation Honors Fallen Service Members at Memorial Day Event,2024-05-31,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Ranking Member of the Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA) Subcommittee of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee (HVAC), joinedSenator Jeanne Shaheen (NH), Senator Maggie Hassan (NH), and Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen to honor the brave service members who gave their lives serving our country and their families. “Every fallen Soldier, Sailor, Airman, and Marine represents a link in an unbroken chain of service and sacrifice that began at our nation’s founding and continues to this day,” said Congressman Pappas. “Today at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, we paused to honor and pay our respects to the brave service members who lost their lives defending our country and our way of life. The fallen are forever part of our American family, and we must never waiver in honoring them and their families and remembering the tremendous price paid by some for the freedom enjoyed by all. Thank you to the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, VFW, and all of the partners who helped host this meaningful event.” “The New Hampshire Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen is a truly special place to observe Memorial Day and salute service members who gave their life in defense of our nation,” saidSenator Shaheen. “Our service members and their families exemplify the very best of the American spirit, and I was honored to join so many Granite Staters today to remember and honor their sacrifices for our country.” “I was honored to commemorate Memorial Day at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery today and join Granite Staters in showing our gratitude for those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country,” said Senator Hassan. “The brave men and women who are laid to rest in Boscawen helped keep America safe, secure, and free. I will keep working to support Gold Star families, as well as all service members and veterans.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-marks-start-of-pride-2024,Pappas Marks Start of Pride 2024,2024-05-31,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Co-Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus and New Hampshire’s first openly gay member of Congress, issued the following statement to mark the start of Pride Month tomorrow: “During Pride, we come together as a community to celebrate living as our full authentic selves and stand together against hate and the ongoing efforts to discriminate against LGBTQ+ individuals across our country,” said Congressman Pappas. “No one should be a second-class citizen in the United States, and everyone deserves the opportunity to participate fully in their community and to live free from discrimination and the harm it brings. When we work to create a positive environment that respects everyone and protects personal freedoms, we all win. That is how we will continue to change our world for the better. I’m proud to be fighting for equality for LGBTQ+ individuals in Congress.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-announces-nearly-31-million-in-rebates-for-clean-school-buses,NH Delegation Announces Nearly $31 Million in Rebates for Clean School Buses,2024-05-29,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today the New Hampshire delegation helped announce the recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Program rebate competition. The rebates will help selectees purchase 110 clean school buses in nine school districts across New Hampshire. The Clean School Bus Program will help New Hampshire invest in zero-emission vehicles and replace older, diesel-fueled school buses, which have been linked to asthma and other conditions that harm the health of students and surrounding communities. The program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save schools money, and better protect children’s health, especially in communities already overburdened by pollution. The investment will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs for Americans. “Clean school buses will benefit our children, environment, and local communities by providing cleaner air, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and saving taxpayer dollars,” said U.S. Representative Chris Pappas. “This smart investment will support the acquisition of over a hundred clean school buses across New Hampshire that are safer for children and more reliable for our school districts. I helped pass the bipartisan infrastructure law that delivered these federal funds back to our state, and I will continue supporting efforts that invest in public health and our future.” ""I'm thrilled to see more than $30 million coming to nine Granite State school districts for new, zero-emission electric school buses. Replacing older diesel buses makes a big difference for kids' health and air quality in our communities. This funding is another great example of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law making lasting investments in the future of New Hampshire communities,” said U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “Clean energy school buses are good for students’ health, lower costs for our communities, and help us combat climate change,” said U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan. “I am pleased that the bipartisan infrastructure law is continuing to deliver for New Hampshire by increasing the number of electric school buses in our state.” “Transitioning our transportation sector to clean, renewable energy is key to mitigating the worst impacts of climate change, and our local communities and schools can play a significant role in cutting harmful emissions,” said U.S. Representative Ann Kuster. “These resources made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will improve the health and well-being of our children and environment while lowering fuel and maintenance costs for communities.” “President Biden believes every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy life and breathe clean air, and his Investing in America agenda is designed to deliver just that,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With today’s latest round of funding, we are transforming the nation’s school bus fleet to better protect our most precious cargo—our kids—saving school districts money, improving air quality, and bolstering American manufacturing all at the same time.” “Today’s announcement helps ensure that nine school districts in New Hampshire can breathe easier and benefit from the reduced emissions of 110 clean school buses,” said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “One hundred-and-ten clean school buses means 110 fewer tailpipes blowing diesel exhaust and particulate matter into our air. It’s a win-win-win-win-win-win-win—cleaner air, healthier environment, fighting the climate crisis, parents not worrying that their kids are breathing in fumes as a diesel bus comes by, clean energy jobs, and school districts saving money. Our Clean School Bus program is making a real difference in the lives of children and families across New England.” The 2023 Clean School Bus rebates will help selectees purchase 110 clean school buses in nine school districts across New Hampshire: Litchfield SAU Office has been selected to receive $2,760,000 in rebate funding to purchase eight clean school buses. Derry Cooperative SAU Office has been selected to receive $8,665,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses. Hudson School District has been selected to receive $3,200,000 in rebate funding to purchase 16 clean school buses. Concord SAU Office has been selected to receive $1,035,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses. Nashua SAU Office has been selected to receive $6,830,000 in rebate funding to purchase 22 clean school buses. Lisbon Regional School District has been selected to receive $345,000 in rebate funding to purchase one clean school bus. Moultonborough School District has been selected to receive $2,415,000 in rebate funding to purchase seven clean school buses. Hanover School District has been selected to receive $600,000 in rebate funding to purchase three clean school buses. Pembroke School District has been selected to receive $5,000,000 in rebate funding to purchase 25 clean school buses. The EPA Clean School Bus Program was created by the bipartisan infrastructure law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors. This will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-pushes-to-ensure-air-force-addresses-pfas-contamination-under-new-regulations-at-pease,Pappas Pushes to Ensure Air Force Addresses PFAS Contamination Under New Regulations at Pease,2024-05-23,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) called on the U.S. Air Force to treat per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) contamination at locations on and surrounding the former Pease Air Force Base to levels below the Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under its April 2024 PFAS National Primary Drinking Water Regulation. In the letter, Pappas commended EPA’s new PFAS regulation for drinking water, writing, “EPA’s announcement is a critical step forward in addressing PFAS contamination in drinking water and represents the most stringent standards for PFAS contamination.” Underlining the Air Force’s responsibility to meet the new standards at Pease, he concluded, “Since it is the Air Force’s legal responsibility to treat PFAS contamination at Pease, I write to seek confirmation that the Air Force will treat drinking water at and around Pease to levels below the latest standards issued by EPA. Specifically, the Air Force must commit to treating both municipal sources and private wells surrounding Pease to levels below the latest PFAS MCLs.” Read the letter here. In April, following Pappas’s advocacy, EPA finalized PFAS National Primary Drinking Water Regulation which issues strict Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCL) for PFAS chemicals and announced $1 billion in funding from the bipartisan infrastructure law to help address PFAS contamination in both municipal systems and private wells, with a focus on small and rural communities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-statement-on-senator-d-allesandro-announcing-retirement,Pappas Statement on Senator D'Allesandro Announcing Retirement,2024-05-21,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement after the announcement that State Senator Lou D'Allesandro will not seek re-election this year: ""Lou D'Allesandro has been a tireless advocate for working families in New Hampshire for decades, and I'm honored to have called him a friend and mentor for years. In addition to being a legislator, Lou is an educator, a coach, a dedicated public servant, and, of course, husband to Pat. His legacy is as much the bills he has passed and the laws that bear his name as the generations of young men and women he has taught, coached, and mentored, leaving a lasting impression on them all. New Hampshire's working families and middle class have had no greater champion than Lou D'Allesandro, and his work to improve public education, create jobs, and strengthen our economy will be felt for decades to come. I join all Granite Staters in thanking Senator D'Allesandro for his service and wish him a Great American Day.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-announces-2024-congressional-art-competition-winners-hosts-reception-for-nh-student-artists,"Pappas Announces 2024 Congressional Art Competition Winners, Hosts Reception for NH Student Artists",2024-05-17,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) hosted high school artists from across the First District, their families, and community leaders for a reception at the Currier Museum of Art as part of the 2024 Congressional Art Competition. Rep. Pappas presented this year’s first-place award to Alexia Prodanis, a student at Manchester Central High School. Second and third-place recognition was awarded to Isabelle Neill, a student at Pinkerton Academy, and Brook Kimball, a student at Gilford High School, respectively. The panel of judges also awarded honorable mentions to Meredith MacWilliam from Derryfield School, Lily Szulc from Manchester Central High School, from Manchester Memorial High School Emily Dahl, Zoe Desjardins, Grey McDonald and Ngoc Nguyen, and from Pinkerton Academy Ayvree Hamilton, Audrey Tavarez, and Rui Hernandez. “New Hampshire is home to a vibrant arts community, and these students are a crucial part of it,” said Congressman Pappas. “This year, as we do every year, we received an abundance of impressive, thoughtful, and creative pieces from talented student artists across the First District. Each student contributed to this process to make it special, and I thank them for their participation and for sharing their skill and passion with us.” Each spring, Rep. Pappas hosts the First District’s art contest as part of a nationwide high school arts competition sponsored by Members of Congress in collaboration with the Congressional Institute. The competition is an opportunity to recognize and encourage the artistic talent in New Hampshire.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/video-pappas-honors-new-hampshire-law-enforcement,VIDEO: Pappas Honors New Hampshire Law Enforcement,2024-05-17,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On Thursday, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) spoke on the House floor in honor of National Police Week to commend New Hampshire law enforcement. In his remarks, Pappas expressed his thanks and support for law enforcement officers in New Hampshire, highlighted local police for the important work they do in their communities, and called on Congress to invest in public safety infrastructure, technology, training, and recruitment and retention efforts to support 21st-century policing. Earlier this week, Pappas introduced a bipartisan resolution honoring the lives and legacies of members of law enforcement killed in the line of duty. The resolution was introduced during National Police Week and recognizes the 282 officers who lost their lives in the line of duty in 2023 and those whose stories were not told until now. Read a transcript of Pappas’s remarks: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise as we mark Police Week to express my thanks and support for law enforcement officers in New Hampshire and across the country who are dedicated to keeping our communities safe. Our police answer the call each and every day, and the work they do is indispensable to fight crime, keep the peace, and provide the kind of assistance that our families and neighbors need. Across New Hampshire, I've had the great privilege to get to know so many of our law enforcement officials, and I'm grateful for their professionalism, their courage, and their leadership. Recently, I had the chance to visit the department in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, to see the long-needed upgrades that they're making from a community project grant secured through our office. Congress must continue to invest in public safety infrastructure, technology, training, and recruitment and retention efforts to support 21st-century policing. And we must commit to valuing and supporting those who swear an oath to protect and serve our communities. Thank you, and I yield back.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-affirms-support-for-israel-opposes-gop-s-politically-motivated-bill,"Pappas Affirms Support for Israel, Opposes GOP’s Politically Motivated Bill",2024-05-16,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released a statement following the House vote on H.R. 8369: “America’s support for the people of Israel must remain firm in the face of the gravest threat to their existence in a generation, and I will never back down from our bipartisan security commitments to Israel. This legislation does absolutely nothing to help Israel and is a cynically partisan move by Speaker Johnson and Republicans who spent months blocking a comprehensive security package. There is simply no time for politics when it comes to U.S. foreign policy, our national security interests, and the assistance required to defeat Hamas and support innocent civilians. I remain concerned by President Biden’s intention to delay certain weapons shipments to Israel and the message that sends to Hamas and other Iranian-backed terrorist proxies. America must never neglect our obligation to support our allies in their times of need."" In April, Pappas voted to pass H.R. 8034, the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, which provided $26 billion in funding to support Israel’s war against Hamas, as well as humanitarian relief.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-applauds-8-million-to-advance-new-hampshire-s-science-and-technology-leadership,Pappas Applauds $8 Million to Advance New Hampshire’s Science and Technology Leadership,2024-05-16,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) welcomed an $8 million grant from the National Science Foundation for the University of New Hampshire (UNH) to invest in science and technology research opportunities, strengthen the STEM workforce, and boost the state’s research leadership. “New Hampshire remains a hub for science and technology research and a leader in innovation,“ said Congressman Pappas. “This funding will support collaboration among our higher education institutions to advance research opportunities, strengthen our STEM education and workforce, and grow our local economy. I fought to pass the Chips and Science Act for smart investments into New Hampshire like this one, and I will continue working to increase opportunities in science and technology for Granite Staters that spur innovation and economic growth across our state.” The initiative, called New Hampshire Long-term Investment to Fuel Transformative research (NH-LIFT), will provide several different opportunities—for students to pursue research experiences in areas that align with their interests; for academic and industry researchers to expand their research pursuits through external funding and accessible research infrastructure; and for the state to increase and retain a skilled workforce-ready population. Among NH-LIFT’s initiatives are: Developing a statewide network of research facilities to broaden access to advanced instrumentation and technical expertise. Increasing student and early-career researcher success through cross-institution programming and partnerships that support research, mentoring, career development and retention. Improving research support and service capacity at primarily undergraduate institutions and small businesses.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/following-pressure-from-nh-delegation-usps-announces-it-will-pause-implementation-of-changes-to-manchester-mail-distribution-center,"Following Pressure from NH Delegation, USPS Announces It Will Pause Implementation of Changes to Manchester Mail Distribution Center",2024-05-15,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation released the following statement in response to the U.S. Postal Service’s (USPS) decision to temporarily pause planned changes to mail distribution from the Manchester Processing and Distribution Center until January 1, 2025, after repeated calls from the delegation to stop implementation and strong opposition from the public: “We appreciate that USPS is finally beginning to heed our calls—and the calls of the public—and has agreed to pause implementation of changes to the Manchester Processing and Mail Distribution Center. While this is a positive step for Granite Staters who deserve reliable and fast mail services, the fight is not over. The New Hampshire Congressional Delegation will continue to urge USPS to make this pause permanent and will work to ensure all public and Postal Service employee concerns are taken into account in any future decisions.” The temporary pause also applies to the White River Junction Processing and Distribution Center, which serves Granite Staters in the North Country. The entire New Hampshire delegation has staunchly supported efforts to ensure that Granite Staters can receive mail in a timely manner from the Postal Service. The delegation worked together to introduce bicameral, bipartisan legislation that would prohibit USPS from consolidating, closing, or downgrading a processing and distribution center if it would leave a state without one or negatively impact mail delivery across a state. In February, the delegation sent a letter to Postmaster General DeJoy expressing concerns about plans for the Manchester Processing and Distribution Center, noting that they could be damaging to mail service in New Hampshire and urging the USPS to reconsider. The delegation also raised these concerns at a press conference outside the facility. The USPS received an outpouring of negative feedback from Granite Staters and postal workers, amplified by the Congressional delegation and other stakeholders, on its plans.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-cybersecurity-in-health-care-systems,Pappas Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Cybersecurity in Health Care Systems,2024-05-15,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congresswoman Michelle Steel (CA-45) introduced the Strengthening Cybersecurity in Health Care Act. This bipartisan legislation would require consistent evaluations of the Department of Health and Human Services’ cybersecurity systems to help combat hacking crimes and keep Granite Staters’ personal health information safe. Senator Maggie Hassan (NH) is co-lead of the Senate companion bill. “Recent attacks on health care systems have made it clear that strengthening our cybersecurity must be a top priority to safeguard personal health information and protect access to care,” said Congressman Pappas. “This bipartisan legislation will bolster cybersecurity and support needed improvements to protect health care systems, including patient data. Tackling cyberattacks is a bipartisan issue, and I will continue working with my colleagues across the aisle to pass this critical bill and strengthen our health care systems against future attacks.” The full text of the bill is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-introduces-resolution-honoring-fallen-law-enforcement-officers,Pappas Introduces Resolution Honoring Fallen Law Enforcement Officers,2024-05-15,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined Congressman Michael Guest (MS-03), Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05), and Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger (VA-07) to introduce H. Res. 1226 to honor and memorialize fallen law enforcement officers. The resolution was introduced during National Police Week and recognizes the 282 officers who lost their lives in the line of duty in 2023 or those whose stories were lost until now. “Police Week is an annual commemoration to thank our brave law enforcement officers for the work they do every day to keep our communities safe and to honor those that gave the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” said Congressman Pappas. “Those who put on the uniform to protect and serve their communities, as well as their family members, deserve our thanks and gratitude. We must work to ensure our police departments have the resources they need and that our officers have the support they have earned. This bipartisan resolution honors the lives and legacies of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty and resolves to support those who safeguard our communities.” “Police officers are the heroes of our communities, protecting us from crime and defending innocent citizens from those who seek to do harm,” said Congressman Guest. “I am honored to lead this legislation that expresses that the Members of the House of Representatives support our law enforcement officers, appreciate all they do for our communities, and pay tribute to those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.” “Every year, hundreds of thousands of men and women in the police force leave their homes every day to protect their communities, with no guarantee they will make it home,” said Congresswoman Letlow. “I’m honored to help lead this legislation with my colleagues as we stand together and pay tribute to the brave men and women in blue who have given their lives in service, and paid the ultimate sacrifice to our communities. I encourage all Louisianans to thank a law enforcement officer and continue to pray for their safety as they look out for ours.” ""As the daughter of a retired law enforcement officer, I know what it means to watch a loved one put on a badge and head to work — and be concerned as to whether or not they’ll make it home. As a former federal law enforcement officer myself, I also understand firsthand the responsibilities, stresses, and dangers associated with the job,"" said Congresswoman Spanberger. ""This National Police Week, I am humbled to honor the fallen heroes who lost their lives in the line of duty. These officers and deputies embody service, integrity, and sacrifice — representing some of the best of Virginia and of the United States. May their sacrifice never be forgotten and their legacy continue to inspire us all.” More than 80 bipartisan Members of the House of Representatives joined Congressman Pappas, Congressman Guest, Congresswoman Letlow, and Congresswoman Spanberger as original cosponsors of the legislation. Background: President Kennedy signed Public Law 87-725 in 1962 that authorized the proclamation of Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15 each year to honor law enforcement officers killed or injured in the line of duty. The legislation also authorized the recognition of the week in which it falls as National Police Week. Peace Officers Memorial Day 2024 honors 282 law enforcement officers who were killed in the line of duty and those whose stories were recovered in the past year. H. Res. 1226 expresses unwavering support for law enforcement and recognizes the sacrifices of families who have lost loved ones. A copy of the resolution is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-ranked-most-bipartisan-house-democrat-third-most-bipartisan-overall,"Pappas Ranked Most Bipartisan House Democrat, Third Most Bipartisan Overall",2024-05-14,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) was named the most bipartisan House Democrat and the third most bipartisan member of Congress overall by The Lugar Center - McCourt School Bipartisan Index. The Bipartisan index is “an objective measure of how well members of opposite parties work with one another.” The Bipartisan Index measures the frequency with which a Member co-sponsors a bill introduced by the opposite party and the frequency with which a Member’s own bills attract co-sponsors from the opposite party. “Solutions to the challenges we face are not found at the political extremes. They are found in the middle when we put politics aside and put common sense first,” said Congressman Pappas. “In a deeply divided Washington, the only way to get things done and deliver results for Granite Staters is to bring people together, find common ground, and work across the aisle. That is how we do things in New Hampshire, and I will continue to work in a bipartisan fashion to break the gridlock and deliver solutions for our families, veterans, and small businesses.” In February, a report from CQ Roll Call’s annual Vote Studies analysis showed that Pappas broke from his party in House votes more than 97% of other Democrats and is among the most independent members of the 118th Congress. The report analyzed Pappas’s voting record, showing that he is the 8th most likely Democrat to break party ranks and cross the aisle to vote in a bipartisan manner. Pappas is a member of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus and was also ranked among the most bipartisan members of Congress last year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-tours-portsmouth-housing-authority,Pappas Tours Portsmouth Housing Authority,2024-05-10,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) visited Portsmouth Housing Authority’s Feaster Apartments to discuss the federal support available to increase the amount of affordable housing in New Hampshire’s Seacoast, improve and modernize New Hampshire’s public housing stock, and lower costs for families through increased energy efficiency. Earlier this week, Pappas helped announce over $30 million in federal funding coming to New Hampshire to help address the state’s housing affordability crisis. This included $9,971,896 in Public Housing Repair grant funding to improve and modernize public housing stock in the Granite State, specifically $1,242,914 for the Portsmouth Housing Authority. “Addressing New Hampshire’s housing challenges requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, so it’s critical we work together across all levels of government and listen to the needs of local communities,” said Congressman Pappas. “Today I toured apartments with the Portsmouth Housing Authority which are providing safe and affordable housing options to low-income families. I’ll continue to support resources that grow our affordable housing supply and ensure Granite Staters have a roof over their head and a safe place to sleep.” “It was a pleasure to show Congressman Pappas how federal funding contributes to the upgrades to our older properties by making them more energy efficient and improving accessibility for seniors so they are able to age in place for as long as possible. Our New Hampshire Congressional Delegation understands how the affordable housing crisis negatively impacts our communities. It’s critical that we work together to increase the stock of housing for our workforce, in addition to modernizing our older properties,” said Craig W. Welch, Executive Director of Portsmouth Housing Authority & PHA Housing Development LTD.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-welcomes-more-than-30-million-to-tackle-housing-affordability,NH Delegation Welcomes More than $30 Million to Tackle Housing Affordability,2024-05-08,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation applauded more than $30 million in federal funding coming to New Hampshire from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help address the state’s housing affordability crisis. New Hampshire will receive $21,547,769 in grant funding towards affordable housing, community development, and homeless assistance and $9,971,896 in Public Housing Repair grant funding to improve and modernize public housing stock in the Granite State. “Stable housing is essential for an individual's health, wellbeing, and safety,” said Congressman Pappas. “As New Hampshire continues to face an extreme housing shortage, these funds will provide resources for public housing development and modernization, support for low-income renters and homeowners, help to individuals experiencing homelessness, and increase our affordable housing supply. I’ll continue working to support efforts to help Granite Staters find safe and affordable housing and address the root causes of the housing crisis.” “Access to affordable housing is critical for the well-being of Granite State families, the workforce and our economy,” said Senator Shaheen. “New Hampshire faces a critical housing shortage, needing more than 60,000 additional units by 2030, and the lack of necessary housing is the primary cause of increasing costs. This federal funding will provide communities across New Hampshire with the resources they need to take steps to address housing affordability, invest in new construction and make improvements for Granite Staters living in public housing.” “New Hampshire’s housing shortage is hurting families who are trying to buy a house or rent an apartment, and it is hurting businesses by preventing them from recruiting the workers that they need,” said Senator Hassan. “This federal funding will lower rental costs, support new housing construction projects, and help address homelessness – all of which will help more Granite State communities thrive.” “It’s no secret New Hampshire is experiencing a housing shortage—we need 90,000 new units by 2040 to meet expected demand,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “I’m pleased to see these resources heading to the Granite State to help expand our affordable housing stock, ensure more Granite Staters have a safe place to call home, and support our communities and economy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-calls-for-action-on-southern-border,Pappas Calls for Action on Southern Border,2024-05-07,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined 15 House Democrats calling on President Biden to take executive action to restore order at the Southern border. The Members urged the President to use all the tools at his disposal, including executive action, to better address security at the Southern border, interdict illicit fentanyl, and allow for orderly legal immigration. “Congress had an opportunity to work together on a bipartisan basis to secure the border but House Speaker Mike Johnson has refused to bring that bill to us for debate,” wrote the members. “It is well past time for both parties to come together and agree on common-sense, bipartisan immigration reforms that both strengthen enforcement at the border and provide a path to citizenship.” The letter continues: “Democrats have repeatedly stood ready to support funding for increased border patrol personnel and fentanyl scanning technology, as well as immigration judges and asylum officers to allow for orderly processing at ports of entry. We were proud to support $19.6 billion for Customs and Border Protection in the recently passed Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 government funding package– including $75.5 million to acquire additional non- intrusive inspection detection systems and $20 million for an additional 150 CBP Officers to support counter fentanyl efforts.” They concluded, “It has become clear that the current situation remains untenable, but with Republicans playing politics on border security, it is time for your Administration to act.” Click here to read the letter. Pappas is a cosponsor of the Dignity Act which is comprehensive, bipartisan legislation to address security and infrastructure challenges at the border, hire additional border patrol personnel, establish new pathways for asylum seekers, and create a path to citizenship. In March, Pappas helped launch a new border security task force to focus on the need for comprehensive, bipartisan solutions to address the border and fix the broken immigration system. Later that month, Pappas voted to pass the Fiscal Year 2024 government funding package, which included a $3.2 billion increase in funding for Customs and Border Patrol (CPB), providing for a record 22,000 agents, including 150 counter-fentanyl officers, and needed investments in fentanyl detection equipment. In February, Pappas helped pass several pieces of legislation to strengthen deportation standards for foreign nationals who violate the law.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-announces-critical-funding-to-tackle-substance-use-disorder-crisis,NH Delegation Announces Critical Funding to Tackle Substance Use Disorder Crisis,2024-05-02,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, the New Hampshire delegation announced that $29,880,604 in State Opioid Response (SOR) grants are now being made available to the State of New Hampshire. The delegation fought to secure this funding to help the state address the substance use disorder (SUD) in the government funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2024 that was signed into law. “These federal resources are critically important to helping New Hampshire combat the opioid and addiction epidemic, and I’m pleased we have secured an increase in funding with this grant,” said Congressman Pappas. “I remain committed to bringing every resource to bear to help save lives and allow those suffering from addiction to get the help they need. I'll keep fighting to deliver support to our state to ensure first responders, health providers, and our friends, neighbors, and family members have the tools they need to end the substance use disorder crisis.” “Too many Granite Staters have been lost to the opioid epidemic and I’m pleased that this funding, which I fought hard for, will provide New Hampshire with the flexibility to adapt to and address the crisis as it has impacted so many of our communities,” said Senator Shaheen. “As an appropriator, I’ll continue working to ensure the State Opioid Response program gets the resources it needs so we can put more people on the path to long-term recovery.” “The fentanyl crisis has devastated families across New Hampshire, and State Opioid Response funding provides essential resources for prevention, treatment, and recovery across our state,” said Senator Hassan. “Granite Staters have again and again told me about the heartbreaking impacts of the fentanyl crisis on their families, and the need to continue combating this epidemic in every way we can. We must stay focused on increasing access to evidence-based, lifesaving treatment; preventing addiction in the first place; and supporting law enforcement and health professionals’ response to this crisis.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-announces-over-28-million-for-lead-pipe-replacement-advance-safe-drinking-water,"NH Delegation Announces Over $28 Million for Lead Pipe Replacement, Advance Safe Drinking Water",2024-05-02,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, the New Hampshire delegation announced $28,650,000 from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to help New Hampshire identify and replace lead service lines, preventing exposure to lead in drinking water. Lead can cause a range of serious health impacts, including irreversible harm to brain development in children. This funding is from the bipartisan infrastructure law, which the delegation fought to pass and available through EPA’s successful Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF). “Addressing lead pipes in a quick and targeted manner is needed to ensure New Hampshire families and children have safe, clean drinking water,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “I fought to pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to deliver these resources to New Hampshire, and this funding will support lead pipe replacement to update our water infrastructure, safeguard public health, and ensure our communities have clean water. I will continue working to address contaminants in drinking water and protect the well-being of our communities.” “No Granite Stater should worry about the safety of their water. As a lead negotiator of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I fought to secure this funding to ensure that children and families can trust that the water coming into their homes is safe to consume. I’m proud that this infusion of federal funding will help New Hampshire get rid of lead pipes and update our aging infrastructure to better ensure the health and safety of Granite Staters,” said Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “Granite Staters deserve access to clean and safe drinking water and I am glad to see this latest round of federal funding coming to New Hampshire to identify and replace lead service lines still in use,” said Senator Maggie Hassan. “I helped negotiate and pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to make projects like this one — which will remove lead water pipes from service — possible. These critical investments in infrastructure strengthen our communities and our economy.” “Everyone deserves access to safe, clean drinking water, and the safety of New Hampshire’s drinking water is critical to the health and well-being of our communities and families across the state,” said Congresswoman Annie Kuster. “These resources to replace dangerous lead pipes and this significant funding made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will go a long way toward making that a reality.” “The science is clear, there is no safe level of lead exposure, and the primary source of harmful exposure in drinking water is through lead pipes,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “President Biden understands it is critical to identify and remove lead pipes as quickly as possible, and he has secured significant resources for states and territories to accelerate the permanent removal of dangerous lead pipes once and for all.” “Our goal is simple, yet essential: to assure that everyone has clean, safe drinking water. That’s why identifying and replacing lead service lines is crucial; it can protect our communities, especially the most vulnerable, from lead exposure,” said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “New England has some of the oldest housing stock in the country, and no one—no matter where they live—should have to worry about lead in their drinking water and what comes out of the tap. This funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides the much-needed resources to help deliver on that promise—to replace every lead pipe and ensure clean, safe drinking water for all.” The bipartisan infrastructure law invests a historic $15 billion to identify and replace lead service lines. The law mandates that 49% of funds provided through the DWSRF General Supplemental Funding and DWSRF Lead Service Line Replacement Funding must be provided as grants and forgivable loans to disadvantaged communities, a crucial investment for communities that have been underinvested in for too long. EPA projects a national total of 9 million lead services lines across the country, based on data collected from the updated 7th Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment. The funding announced today will be provided specifically for lead service line identification and replacement and will help every state and territory fund projects to remove lead pipes and reduce exposure to lead from drinking water.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:12:30Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-bilirakis-titus-malliotakis-introduce-the-bipartisan-end-the-cyprus-embargo-act,"Pappas, Bilirakis, Titus, Malliotakis Introduce the Bipartisan End the Cyprus Embargo Act",2024-05-01,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Dina Titus (NV-01), co-chairs and vice co-chairs of the Hellenic Caucus, introduced the End the Cyprus Embargo Act, bipartisan legislation that would extend the waiver renewal period for the arms embargo on the Republic of Cyprus from one year to five years. This change will bolster the historic growth in U.S.-Cypriot relations, enhance bilateral cooperation, and advance U.S. security interests in the Eastern Mediterranean. The legislation was introduced ahead of the 50th anniversary of Turkey’s illegal invasion and occupation of northern Cyprus. Over the past two decades, U.S.-Cyprus relations have strengthened substantially, with Cyprus emerging as a pivotal ally for U.S. interests and regional stability. The Eastern Mediterranean Security and Energy Partnership Act of 2019 authorized the President to waive the arms embargo on an annual basis. However, the annual renewal requirement restricts Cyprus’s ability to plan and procure U.S. defense articles effectively, compromises U.S.-Cypriot military interoperability, impedes joint research on cybersecurity and maritime security, and diminishes the effectiveness of the National Guard State Partnership Program in Cyprus. “The Republic of Cyprus is a steadfast, democratic ally in the Eastern Mediterranean. It’s time U.S. policy better reflects Cyprus’s role as an essential partner in our collective security architecture in the region,” said Congressman Pappas. “This change will further empower U.S.-Cyprus bilateral relations, support our mutual commitment to collaboration on security and defense, and improve their ability for long-term planning and procurement.” “Cyprus has proven itself to be a valued and reliable partner for the United States,” said Congressman Bilirakis. “Giving Cyprus planning certainty will allow the partnership to continue to flourish and will prove mutually beneficial for both nations and our allies.” “Cyprus is a key partner in the Mediterranean and the U.S. must continue making efforts to improve diplomatic relations between our two countries,” said Congresswoman Titus. “Reducing the number of necessary embargo reviews for aid to Cyprus will allow this important ally to strategically plan for the future while supporting U.S. security interests abroad.” ""For too long, the United States has maintained an outdated and counterproductive embargo on the sale of defense materials and services to the Republic of Cyprus,” Congresswoman Malliotakis said. “Our legislation seeks to correct this by recognizing Cyprus as a key strategic partner in the Eastern Mediterranean and allow for the responsible export of U.S. defense items to support our shared security interests. By strengthening Cyprus's ability to defend itself, we can promote greater stability in the region.” ""AHI congratulates Congressman Chris Pappas for introducing critical and meaningful legislation, the ""End the Cyprus Embargo Act."" Cyprus has been unfairly subject to an arms prohibition for decades, an injustice that AHI has sought to correct for a long time. Progress has been made on this issue, and Rep. Pappas' legislation will cement existing gains and create further progress. Ultimately, AHI looks forward to the day Cyprus is removed from the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR) list altogether to make it eligible to acquire U.S. defense articles and defense services without conditions, especially because the United States values Cyprus as a strategic partner. We thank Rep. Pappas for his outstanding leadership on this issue, and all other issues of concern regarding the Eastern Mediterranean region,"" said Nick Larigakis, President of the American Hellenic Institute. ""The 2020 lifting of the U.S. arms embargo on Cyprus, pursuant to the Eastern Mediterranean Security and Energy Partnership Act, was a milestone in the U.S.-Cyprus bilateral relationship. It has already proven to have a positive effect on the increasingly integrated Eastern Mediterranean. As Cyprus continues to demonstrate its value as an essential partner of the U.S. and Israel in efforts to advance peace, stability, and cooperation in the East Med, the End the Cyprus Embargo Act will help continue this vital momentum. We appreciate the bipartisan effort led by Representatives Chris Pappas, Gus Bilirakis, Dina Titus, and Nicole Malliotakis in bringing this legislation forward,"" said Ted Deutch, CEO of American Jewish Committee. “FDD Action strongly supports the “End the Cyprus Embargo Act”. Cyprus is an important U.S. partner in the Eastern Mediterranean and has been instrumental in efforts to combat terrorism, fight sanctions evasion, and counter money laundering. Cyprus is also working with key allies such as Israel to facilitate humanitarian aid to Gaza. Given this valuable cooperation as well as its demonstrated record of responsible conduct, Cyprus should be able to purchase weapons and munitions for its security. This legislation would provide Cyprus with the resources to protect its sovereignty and improve interoperability with the U.S. military, deepening an already strong and productive partnership,” said FDD Action. ""5 years ago, Congress took a huge step to correct a policy that was preventing the US-Cyprus security relationship from functioning. While the annual waiver of the Cyprus arms embargo has been a welcome development, Representatives Pappas, Bilirakis, Malliotakis and Titus have correctly concluded that it does not allow US-Cyprus security cooperation to be optimized to the level required by regional challenges. Congress leads again and the U.S., Cyprus and the Western alliance will all be stronger once this legislation passes,"" said Endy Zemenides, Executive Director of Hellenic American Leadership Council. “The International Coordinating Committee Justice for Cyprus (PSEKA) applauds and supports the efforts of Rep. Pappas to put an end to the Cyprus Embargo Act. As we do for Ukraine, who is a victim of an illegal invasion, the United States should not only end the Embargo, but it should provide military assistance to our strategic partner, Cyprus,” said Philip Christopher, President of the International Coordinating Committee Justice for Cyprus (PSEKA). The End the Cyprus Embargo Act will solidify U.S.-Cypriot relations, foster long-term planning and cooperation, and ensure interoperability with regional allies. Specifically, this legislation will: Extend the waiver renewal period for the arms embargo from one year to five years. Permit the President to reconsider the arms embargo waiver only every five years following its enactment. Prohibit the President from terminating the waiver unless Congress receives certification that the Republic of Cyprus is no longer: Cooperating with U.S. efforts to implement anti-money laundering regulations and financial oversight reforms; and Denying Russian military vessels access to ports for refueling and servicing.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-mann-introduce-the-bipartisan-end-dwi-act,"Pappas, Mann Introduce the Bipartisan End DWI Act",2024-05-01,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congressman Tracey Mann (KS-01) introduced the End Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) Act of 2024. This bipartisan legislation would create a national ignition interlock standard by encouraging states to adopt mandatory first-time offender ignition interlock laws, which help reduce recidivism and improve road safety by ensuring fewer drunk drivers are on the road. Twenty five states, including New Hampshire, already meet the standards outlined in this legislation. In the United States, someone is killed or injured in a drunk driving crash every 39 minutes, and an average drunk driver has driven drunk 80 times before their first arrest. Studies have shown that the use of ignition interlocks reduce recidivism by up to 70% in first-time, repeat, and high-risk offenders. “We must continue to address drunk driving and employ effective strategies to prevent repeated offenses,” said Congressman Pappas. “This bipartisan legislation will create a national ignition interlock standard by encouraging states to adopt mandatory first-time offender ignition interlock laws. Twenty-five states, including New Hampshire already have these standards in place, and implementing them nationwide will further reduce repeated drunk driving and safeguard our roadways.” “Every life has value and is worthy of protection from harm,” said Rep. Mann. “On average, 37 people in America die every day in drunk-driving related car crashes. The End DWI Act of 2024 can reduce this statistic by requiring offenders who drive while intoxicated to use an ignition interlock device for at least six months after their first offense. Studies have shown this preventative practice reduces recidivism by as much 70% among first-time, repeat, and high-risk offenders, in turn reducing their risk to take the lives of innocent Kansans and Americans by driving while intoxicated.” Organizations supporting this legislation include the Safety and Advocacy for Empowerment (SAFE), Mothers against Drunk Driving, National Safety Council, Students Against Destructive Decisions, and Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. “The rising tide of impaired driving in recent years should be a wake-up call for policymakers across the nation,” said Colleen Scarneo, a nationally board-certified 30-year veteran forensic toxicologist based in New Hampshire who specializes in criminal investigations involving impaired driving. “We know that simply suspending a driver’s license does little because three of four offenders continue to drive. That is why it is imperative for every state to require ignition interlocks for all drunk driving offenders to prevent repeat offenses,” said Scarneo, a member of the Society of Forensic Toxicologists and the National Safety Council’s Alcohol, Drug and Impairment Division. “Taking this action at the federal level will compel the states to act with urgency and save more lives.” “Drunk driving knows no state borders. It is a nationwide crisis. This legislation takes the same approach as laws MADD has spearheaded over the past four decades that prevent thousands of deaths and injuries every year, including the nationwide 21 minimum drinking age and the .08 blood alcohol content law. While drunk driving deaths have dropped dramatically since MADD’s founding in 1980, they have increased by an unprecedented 33% since 2019. American families deserve safe roads and laws that will help eradicate drunk driving.” - Stacey D. Stewart, CEO, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). ""Young drivers have a higher rate of fatal crashes, mainly because of their lack of skills and experience. Add alcohol to the mix and results are often deadly,” said Scott Myers, Executive Director of SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions). “Young people are especially at risk when it comes to drunk driving and roadway safety – whether they are drivers, passengers, pedestrians or bicyclists. Forty years ago, when Congress and President Reagan compelled the states to uniformly raise the minimum drinking age to 21, the states swiftly responded and countless lives have been saved since. It is equally important for this Congress to ensure that every state requires ignition interlocks for all drunk driving offenders to help protect our most vulnerable on our roadways – our youth.” - Scott Myers, Executive Director of SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) “Alcohol-impaired driving continues to be a leading killer on our roadways, contributing to nearly one of every three motor vehicle fatalities. Proven solutions to end these tragic fatalities, injuries and related costs are available; it’s time to take action. One effective approach is state laws requiring all driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenders to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on their vehicle. Yet, after decades of financial incentives for states, many states are still lacking the law. The End DWI Act aims to close these gaps in state laws. We commend Reps. Chris Pappas (D-NH) and Tracey Mann (R-KS) for sponsoring this bill and urge Congress to swiftly pass it. Every 39 minutes that pass between now and then means another person was killed in a crash involving alcohol impairment. This pain and suffering must and can be stopped.” - Cathy Chase, President, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety “Eliminating alcohol-impaired driving is critical to saving lives on our roadways across the country. Ignition interlocks are a proven policy solution to this preventable issue, and we should use all evidenced-based policy measures to end impaired driving. NSC is thrilled with the bipartisan support for this legislation; we know it will save lives."" - Lorraine Martin, President and CEO, National Safety Council.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-votes-to-combat-antisemitism,Pappas Votes to Combat Antisemitism,2024-05-01,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement after voting to pass the Antisemitism Awareness Act of 2023: “As antisemitic incidents in the United States continue to rise at alarming rates, including disturbing acts of vandalism and graffiti here in New Hampshire, we must all stand united and say with one voice that there is no place for antisemitism in this country. Today and every day we must reaffirm our commitment to ending hatred, bigotry, and antisemitism in all its forms.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-malliotakis-titus-schneider-meng-lead-bipartisan-call-to-protect-delivery-of-humanitarian-aid-to-gaza-from-unvetted-turkish-flotilla,"Pappas, Malliotakis, Titus, Schneider, Meng Lead Bipartisan Call to Protect Delivery of Humanitarian Aid to Gaza from Unvetted Turkish Flotilla",2024-04-26,2024,2024-04,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Dina Titus (NV-01), Brad Schneider (IL-10), and Grace Meng (NY-06) led a bipartisan letter urging Secretary of State Antony Blinken to protect the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza in response to reports of an unvetted flotilla planning to depart from Turkey to Gaza and expressing concerns over Turkey’s recent imposition of export restrictions on key materials to Israel. The bipartisan letter has 15 additional cosigners. In the letter, the lawmakers shared their support for the Administration’s comprehensive, multilateral strategy to maintain the flow of humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians in Gaza, writing, “The Administration’s plan to construct a floating pier off Gaza and the ongoing Cyprus-led Amalthea humanitarian corridor demonstrate effective international cooperation. These measures are designed to ensure that duly-vetted aid reaches Palestinian civilians without benefiting Hamas.” They expressed significant concerns with the reported “Freedom Flotilla Coalition,” saying, “The flotilla, led in part by the Turkish Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH) – which has close ties with the Turkish government and has previously raised funds for Hamas – intends to bypass established aid channels and refuse to allow Israeli inspection of their cargo, casting doubt on the nature of the mission.” They concluded by emphasizing concerns that the flotilla may exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, inflame regional tensions, and undermine ongoing negotiations for a temporary ceasefire, writing, “We reaffirm our support for Israel and the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza. We oppose any actions, like the Turkish flotilla or Turkey’s imposition of export restrictions, that could impede effective aid delivery, escalate the conflict, or jeopardize negotiations between Israel and Hamas. We urge the Administration to continue to uphold these principles in response to these developments.” The letter was supported by American Hellenic Institute (AHI), American Jewish Committee (AJC), FDD Action, and Hellenic American Leadership Council (HALC). The letter is here and below. Dear Secretary Blinken: We write to express concerns about deteriorating Israeli-Turkish relations and reports that a Turkish coalition is allegedly planning to launch a flotilla to Gaza. While we strongly support humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza, we are gravely worried that such a hastily organized and unvetted effort could further inflame regional tensions, disrupt existing aid delivery mechanisms, exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and jeopardize multilateral negotiations aimed at securing a temporary ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages. Ongoing security threats in Israel since Hamas’s October 7 attack, including the unprecedented attack on Israel earlier this month by Iran and its proxies, undermine Israel’s security and economy. These events also underscore the importance of Congress’s passage of the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act which ensures Israel has the strategic support it needs to defend itself. We also support the Administration’s comprehensive, multilateral strategy to maintain the flow of humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians in Gaza. The Administration’s plan to construct a floating pier off Gaza and the ongoing Cyprus-led Amalthea humanitarian corridor demonstrate effective international cooperation. These measures are designed to ensure that duly-vetted aid reaches Palestinian civilians without benefiting Hamas. However, we are gravely concerned by the reported “Freedom Flotilla Coalition,” which plans to breach the established security perimeter with an unknown number of ships to deliver aid to Gaza. The flotilla, led in part by the Turkish Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH) – which has close ties with the Turkish government and has previously raised funds for Hamas – intends to bypass established aid channels and refuse to allow Israeli inspection of their cargo, casting doubt on the nature of the mission. We strongly urge you to engage directly with President Erdogan and the Turkish government to prevent or delay the flotilla’s departure and ensure that all shipments to Gaza are vetted and in compliance with international standards for humanitarian assistance. We are also concerned that Turkey’s imposition of export restrictions on key construction materials to Israel may exacerbate Israel’s economic challenges. We strongly urge you to pressure Turkey to rescind this policy to avoid further inflaming regional tensions and before other nations follow suit. We encourage you to work with the Department of Commerce to determine whether it may be appropriate to invoke antiboycott provisions under the Export Control Reform Act, which prohibit agreements by U.S. companies that refuse to do business with Israel. We reaffirm our support for Israel and the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza. We oppose any actions, like the Turkish flotilla or Turkey’s imposition of export restrictions, that could impede effective aid delivery, escalate the conflict, or jeopardize negotiations between Israel and Hamas. We urge the Administration to continue to uphold these principles in response to these developments.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T20:47:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-tours-wolfeboro-police-facility-construction-made-possible-by-federal-dollars-secured-by-his-community-project-funding,"Pappas Tours Wolfeboro Police Facility Construction, Made Possible by Federal Dollars Secured by His Community Project Funding",2024-04-26,2024,2024-04,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) visited Wolfeboro Police Department to discuss the federal funding secured through his Community Project Funding Program to update Wolfeboro Police Department’s facilities and take a tour of the construction. “Every day, New Hampshire law enforcement and first responders are on the frontlines in our communities, responding to emergencies and keeping Granite Staters safe,” said Congressman Pappas. “Through our community-driven process, I secured $1 million in federal funds to help expand Wolfeboro Police Department facilities to support their critical work and ensure they have the resources to fully meet the needs of the local community. I’ll continue working alongside law enforcement officers and first responders to strengthen public safety and keep our communities safe.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T20:47:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-joins-elbit-america-s-ceremony-marking-the-3000th-delivery-of-f-35-joint-strike-fighter-helmet,"Pappas Joins Elbit America’s Ceremony Marking the 3,000th Delivery of F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Helmet",2024-04-25,2024,2024-04,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined Elbit America’s ceremony marking the 3,000th delivery of F-35 Joint Strike Fighter helmets and celebrating the Merrimack employees who were key to this milestone. “American leadership is needed on the world stage, and a strong defense industrial base is crucial to that mission,” said Congressman Pappas. “The F-35 Helmet Mounted Display System helps warfighters stay safe and aware and allows them to complete their mission every time and come home. I was honored to join Elbit America and Collins Elbit Vision Systems today in Merrimack to celebrate the 3,000th delivery of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter helmet and thank Merrimack employees for the work they do day in and day out right here in New Hampshire to safeguard our men and women in uniform.” “Delivering 3,000 F-35 Helmet Mounted Display Systems to our Lockheed Martin and F-35 Joint Program Office customers is an outstanding achievement,” said Andy Chiango, Elbit America’s Vice President of Merrimack Production. “Our Merrimack team has a direct impact on our nation’s defenders by providing this sophisticated equipment for the last decade, and we will continue supporting the F-35 Helmet Mounted Display System for years to come."" “The F-35 Gen. III Helmet Mounted Display System is the most advanced helmet-mounted display system in the world. The system’s next-generation user interface serves as a pilot’s primary display system, providing them with vital flight, tactical and sensor information day or night,” said Bob Hess, Elbit America’s Senior Director for Electronic Solutions. “This system is produced by Collins Elbit Vision Systems, a joint venture with our long-time partners at Collins Aerospace. Together, we all celebrate this tremendous achievement.” Elbit America is a defense and homeland security technology integration company with 650 employees at the Merrimack facility, and this program has been in production since 2014.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T20:47:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-joins-groundbreaking-ceremony-for-manchester-va-medical-center-s-new-women-s-health-clinic,Pappas Joins Groundbreaking Ceremony for Manchester VA Medical Center’s New Women's Health Clinic,2024-04-24,2024,2024-04,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, joined the groundbreaking ceremony for Manchester VA Medical Center’s new Women’s Health Clinic. The new facility will address privacy and care concerns for women veterans at Manchester VA Medical Center by dedicating a larger space, more rooms, and direct entrance to the clinic. “VA is now serving more women veterans in its health care system than at any time in its history. That is why it is mission-critical for VA to provide necessary care to women who have answered the call to service, and why this new facility in Manchester could not be more important,” said Congressman Pappas. “This facility will prioritize women veteran’s privacy and care by more than doubling the space, adding more rooms, and creating a direct entrance to the waiting room. It's well past time that we ensure that women veterans are afforded these benefits, and I was pleased to join today’s groundbreaking for the new Women’s Health Clinic which is an essential step for VA to continue to serve women veterans in New Hampshire and meet their needs.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T20:47:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-joins-rochester-child-care-center-for-earth-day-celebration,Pappas Joins Rochester Child Care Center for Earth Day Celebration,2024-04-23,2024,2024-04,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) visited Rochester Child Care Center to take part in their Earth Day celebration. Pappas was joined by Cora-Lynn Hoppe, Executive Director of the Rochester Child Care Center, and Maria Finnegan, Director of Climate and Health Initiative for Caregivers and Kids, as well as Center staff and families. The event featured nature crafts, food, and learning activities aimed to connect kids with the natural world and emphasize the role they can play in protecting our planet. “New Hampshire’s strength and way of life are rooted in our natural surroundings, and that’s something Granite Staters of all ages can appreciate,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “I was glad to join Rochester Child Care Center for its Earth Day celebration, and I want to thank community members for helping the next generation become passionate about the outdoors and readying them to take steps to protect the planet.” “By connecting children with nature, we not only foster a love and appreciation for the environment but also inspire future generations to become stewards of the planet,” said Cora-Lynn Hoppe, Rochester Child Care Center Executive Director. “We were thrilled to have Congressman Pappas join us today to discuss the importance of preserving nature and combating climate change for a sustainable future. Developing policies that include sustainable practices for both children and the environment are needed to support our communities.” “Engaging in natured-based education fosters a connection between children and the environment, inspiring a commitment to protecting the planet. We are grateful to have this opportunity to partner Rochester Child Care Center and Congressman Pappas for this incredible event,” said Maria Finnegan, Director of Climate and Health Initiative for Caregivers and Kids.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T20:47:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/on-earth-day-nh-delegation-celebrates-over-435-million-from-the-inflation-reduction-act-to-help-lower-energy-costs-for-granite-staters-through-affordable-solar,"On Earth Day, NH Delegation Celebrates Over $43.5 Million from the Inflation Reduction Act to Help Lower Energy Costs for Granite Staters Through Affordable Solar",2024-04-22,2024,2024-04,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation celebrated $43,510,000 in federal funding from the Inflation Reduction Act to help lower energy costs for Granite Staters by delivering affordable solar to low-income households. The funding comes from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund’s Solar for All grant program. “I fought to pass the Inflation Reduction Act to lower costs for Granite Staters, invest in clean energy, and move us toward energy independence. This legislation continues to deliver for New Hampshire,” said Congressman Pappas. “This significant investment into residential solar for New Hampshire’s low-income and disadvantaged communities will help close the gap on renewable energy transitions, lower energy costs, and protect our environment. I’ll continue working to return federal dollars to New Hampshire to provide our communities with the tools to transition to clean energy and invest in our future.” “I’m thrilled to see more than $43.5 million for solar headed directly to the residents and communities in New Hampshire that need it the most,” said Senator Shaheen. “These funds will create good-paying jobs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy costs for Granite Staters. Affordable, clean energy has long been a top priority of mine, and I am glad to see the Inflation Reduction Act continuing to deliver for our state.” “As we celebrate Earth Day today, I am glad to welcome over $40 million in federal funding to expand solar energy in New Hampshire,” said Senator Hassan. “This grant will help more Granite Staters access solar power for their homes, lower their overall energy costs, and create good-paying jobs. I will continue working to combat climate change and bring down costs for New Hampshire.” ""These significant resources will help expand the benefits of solar energy to families and communities throughout New Hampshire,"" said Congresswoman Kuster. ""Solar energy provides tremendous opportunity to combat climate change and lower costs for consumers. I was proud to help pass this funding that will ensure that solar energy can be accessed by more Granite Staters."" The funding will support a comprehensive approach to bringing solar energy to those least able to afford the technology and will be administered by the New Hampshire Department of Energy (NHDOE), The New Hampshire Community Loan Fund and New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority. According to the EPA, the Community Loan Fund will use an existing program that helps residents of manufactured housing parks buy the park from owners and convert them into cooperatives, NH Housing will use funding to install residential-serving community solar on workforce housing projects. The NHDOE will scale up its existing community solar program to support communities or projects that do not neatly fit into the Community Loan Fund and Housing Finance Authority programs. The New Hampshire Congressional delegation has championed work to secure federal investments in clean energy and energy efficiency initiatives and lower energy costs across New Hampshire. Earlier this year, the delegationapplauded $499,120 from U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development headed to Clean Energy NH and Plymouth Area Energy Initiative to help rural New Hampshire small businesses and agricultural producers apply for funding through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T20:47:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-shaheen-hassan-join-event-to-celebrate-20-million-in-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-funding-for-the-seawall-along-nh-route-1a,"Pappas, Shaheen, Hassan Join Event to Celebrate $20 Million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding for the Seawall along NH Route 1A",2024-04-22,2024,2024-04,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Senator Jeanne Shaheen (NH), and Senator Maggie Hassan (NH) joined Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt for a press conference in Rye to celebrate over $20 million in federal grant funding from the bipartisan infrastructure law for the New Hampshire Department of Transportation to make repairs and reconstruct the seawall along New Hampshire Route 1A between North Hampton and Rye. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-Saving Transportation (PROTECT) Discretionary Grant Program—a new grant program created by the bipartisan infrastructure law, which the New Hampshire Congressional delegation supported. “I was glad to join federal, state, and local officials in Rye today as we announce more than $20 million in federal funds returning to New Hampshire to improve the resiliency of Route 1A between North Hampton and Rye,” said Congressman Pappas. “As sea levels rise and Seacoast communities continue to deal with costly and lasting damage from extreme weather events, we must continue to improve our flood and climate resiliency. I remain committed to delivering federal resources to update Granite State infrastructure and improve climate resiliency for communities throughout the state.” “As climate change drives more extreme weather events and sea-level rise along New Hampshire’s Seacoast, it’s increasingly important that we have resilient infrastructure that Granite Staters can rely on,” said Senator Shaheen. “I'm glad Administrator Bhatt joined us today to celebrate these federal funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which I helped negotiate, to reinforce structures along Route 1A, ensuring that the stretch between North Hampton and Rye is less prone to closures and damage after severe storms.” “Climate change is causing more frequent extreme weather in New Hampshire. This federal funding will help improve Route 1A’s resiliency to the flooding that has unfortunately become familiar to those living on the Seacoast,” said Senator Hassan. “I was proud to help negotiate and pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to help make projects exactly like this one in North Hampton and Rye possible, and I know that the upgrades the law provides for will make a difference in the lives of Granite Staters and all Americans.” “Every community in America knows the impacts of climate change and extreme weather, including increasingly frequent heavy rain and flooding events across the country and the sea-level rise that is inundating infrastructure in coastal states,” said FHWA Administrator Shailen Bhatt. “This investment in New Hampshire from the Biden-Harris Administration will ensure our infrastructure is built to withstand more frequent and unpredictable extreme weather, which is vitally important for people and businesses that rely on roads and bridges being open to keep our economy moving.” The entire New Hampshire Congressional delegation has made it a top priority to ensure New Hampshire has the funds it needs to update aging infrastructure across the state. Senators Shaheen and Hassan helped negotiate the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provided a $550 billion investment in our nation’s infrastructure, including more than $847.4 million for roads, bridges, roadway safety and major projects in New Hampshire.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T20:47:55Z