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://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-secures-more-128-million-constituents-2022,Pallone Secures More than $12.8 Million for Constituents in 2022,2022-12-30,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Long Branch, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced that his office helped secure $12,888,902 for constituents who sought assistance from his offices in New Jersey in 2022. The money returned to constituents includes Veterans Affairs (VA) claims, tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service, FEMA grants and claims related to Superstorm Sandy, Small Business Administration loans, and Social Security payments. In 2022, Pallone's office successfully closed 2,255 constituent cases. ""I'm very proud we were able to help so many constituents receive the money that was owed to them. I want everyone to know that we're here to assist them,"" said Pallone. ""My offices are available to support constituents who need assistance navigating issues related to federal agencies. As we enter 2023, I hope New Jerseyans in the Sixth Congressional District continue to use my office as a resource."" Congressman Pallone's office can assist constituents who have questions about a federal agency or need help with Social Security benefits, federal pensions, Medicare eligibility, and passport and immigration issues. Veterans can also receive help with a range of programs and benefits, including military records and awards, GI Bill benefits, and VA disability claims. Staff may be able to locate low-income housing options and provide guidance on utility payment assistance for eligible families. Constituents should not hesitate to contact Congressman Pallone's district offices if they have questions: New Brunswick Office - 67/69 Church Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, Phone: (732) 249-8892",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-s-bill-help-homeless-veterans-credit-and-financial-counseling-0,Pallone’s Bill to Help Homeless Veterans with Credit and Financial Counseling Services Signed into Law,2022-12-29,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr.'s (NJ-06) Homeless Veterans Credit Repair, Enhancement, and Debt Improvement for Tomorrow (CREDIT) Act was signed into law today. The bill was included in the Omnibus Spending Bill for Fiscal Year 2023 and will help end veteran homelessness and housing instability by providing credit and financial counseling - a top ten unmet need for homeless veterans. In May, Pallone held a roundtable with veterans in New Jersey to discuss the bill. The bill directs the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to conduct a study of the effectiveness of credit and financial counseling services offered to homeless veterans and veterans facing housing instability. The study will explore these services and the barriers to them, including the COVID-19 pandemic and other health challenges. The study would provide recommendations for improvements to credit counseling services. The bill will also require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide an interim and final report to Congress on the findings of the study. ""Today, we are one step closer to alleviating veteran homelessness. The Homeless Veterans CREDIT Act will help address veteran homelessness by improving credit and financial counseling services offered to veterans. During this time of economic uncertainty, we must look out for our most vulnerable communities, including homeless veterans and those at risk of becoming homeless. My bill will give us a better understanding of how to improve the services offered to our nation's heroes,"" said Congressman Pallone. ""We have a responsibility to help those who served in uniform and stood ready to make the ultimate sacrifice for our country."" The Homeless Veterans CREDIT Act received the endorsement of the Wounded Warrior Project, the Institute for Veterans and Military Families at Syracuse University, and the Department of New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars. ""Our research and experience tell us that financial stability and literacy are cornerstones of overall well-being for veterans and their families. Thanks to Congressman Pallone's leadership on this issue, the Homeless Veterans CREDIT Act will commission much needed research on how financial counseling programs can positively impact some of the most vulnerable members of the veteran population,"" said Dr. Michael Haynie, Executive Director of the Institute for Veterans and Military Families and Vice Chancellor of Syracuse University. ""In doing so, this bill will empower our veterans, contributing to a healthier, safer and more equitable society for generations to come."" ""Wounded Warrior Project is proud to support the Homeless Veterans CREDIT Act, and we believe it is critically important to fully understand the barriers homeless veterans face in accessing financial and credit counseling services. We applaud its inclusion in the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Appropriations bill and thank Congressman Pallone for his continued commitment to veterans and their families,"" said Jose Ramos, Wounded Warrior Project Vice President for Government and Community Relations. ""The New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars is proud of Congressman Pallone's legislation on behalf of homeless veterans. We thank Congressman Pallone for letting our organization share in his efforts to bring meaningful change to the lives of these men and women,"" said Bill Thomson, Legislative Director for the Department of New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars. Pallone spoke in favor of the bill on the House floor in 2021. Video of the speech is available here. Bill text is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-announces-15-million-for-community-projects-in-new-jerseys-12th-district,Rep. Watson Coleman Announces $15 Million for Community Projects in New Jersey’s 12th District,2022-12-27,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman announced more than $15 million in federal community project funding for 15 organizations in New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District. This funding comes as part of the omnibus government funding legislation that Congress passed on December 23. The projects receiving funding include public facility restorations, flood mitigation initiatives, youth programs, and more. “As New Jersey’s sole congressional appropriator, I take great pride in making sure my constituents’ federal tax dollars come right back to their communities,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “This year, I’m proud to announce that I secured funding for 15 community projects across the 12th District. From mental health services to infrastructure improvements, these investments will make Central Jersey a better place to live, work, and raise a family.” Specifically, the omnibus funding bill provides funding for the following community projects in New Jersey’s 12th District: ● $2,000,000 for the Assunpink Greenway Active Recreation Corridor ● $1,000,000 for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson Union Counties, Newark, NJ for mentoring and student support ● $750,000 for the Coalport Neighborhood Revitalization Planning ● $750,000 for the East Brunswick Public Library Building Infrastructure ● $813,600 for the Henry J. Austin Health Center, Trenton, NJ for a mobile health unit and staffing ● $350,000 for the Manville Veterans Freedom Plaza Creation ● $715,000 for the River Basin Commissions (Mid-Atlantic River Basin Commissions: Delaware River Basin Commission) ● $2,600,000 for the South Brunswick Signalized Intersection Improvements ● $1,112,175 for the Southern Middlesex County Flood Mitigation and Resilience Project ● $500,000 for The Center for Great Expectations, Somerset, NJ for mental health services and treatment ● $631,500 for The Children's Home Society of New Jersey, Trenton, NJ for employment training and related expenses for low income women to improve health and economic outcomes ● $100,000 for the United Way of Greater Union County, Elizabeth, NJ for addressing food insecurity, access to transportation and healthcare, and financial stability ● $2,443,000 for the Van Veghten House Restoration ● $750,000 for the Trenton Wireworks ● $750,000 for the Witherspoon Street Improvements",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-supreme-courts-title-42-order,Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Supreme Court's Title 42 Order,2022-12-27,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) released a statement following today’s unsigned Supreme Court order temporarily extending Title 42, a destructive and flawed Trump-era measure that was set to expire this month. “The Supreme Court’s order today is a destructive one based purely on politics. As Trump-appointed Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote in his dissent, this order was made, ‘because policymakers have failed to agree on adequate measures to address [increased border crossings]... We are a court of law, not policymakers of last resort.’ At a time when the American peoples’ faith in the Supreme Court’s impartiality is at an all-time low this decision further erodes the Court’s credibility. “The order endangers the lives of people fleeing violence in their homelands; those seeking freedom, safety, and opportunity in the United States. Title 42 was put in place as a measure to protect public health during the height of the spread of COVID-19. It is not a substitute for comprehensive immigration reform. “Instead, Republican Governors have prioritized political stunts including sending desperate asylum seekers to northern cities that are experiencing severe weather. “Republican politicians have been quick to eliminate or circumvent nearly all COVID protocols meant to protect Americans. Their sudden interest in supporting covid measures at this point is based entirely on an effort to exclude legal asylum seekers. They have cynically found this one issue, the issue of Title 42, to cling to not because they seek to protect public health, but because their own caucus is incapable of coming to the table with Democrats on comprehensive immigration reform. “I only hope they see the light between now and the time of the Court’s final ruling on this case. Bipartisan immigration reform is possible but only if Congressional Republicans can put aside their partisanship and work with Democrats on finding a solution that prioritizes fairness and security.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=EBBFC966-62B2-4CA2-BDC4-AEF3D71E4F5C,"Rep. Norcross Touts Historic Investments in Government Funding Bill, Local Community Projects",2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ-01) released the following statement upon passing the FY23 omnibus bill, a bipartisan funding package of 12 appropriations bills, supplemental funding, and other key policies that includes funding for 15 community projects in New Jersey’s 1st Congressional District. “This end-of-year package is about our values as a nation and our commitment to working families,” said Congressman Norcross. “The funding we secured this year will have a direct impact on the quality of life for hardworking South Jerseyans, providing good-paying jobs, better access to affordable education, and lower health care costs. The bill also includes critical investments in retirement savings, worker protections, job creation and support for our veterans, which I have championed throughout the year. I’m also proud to see us take critical steps to secure our democracy at home and provide robust support for the Ukrainian people in their fight against Russian aggression. At the end of the day, the funding we secure has to show hardworking Americans that we are looking out for them. This bill does that, and I want to thank House and Senate appropriators for keeping our promise and moving our country forward.” Congressman Norcross added, “I’m proud to have secured critical funding for fifteen local projects that are going to empower South Jersey families. From fighting hunger to improving our local ports and recreation, these resources are going to directly support the families that call this community home. That’s a big deal, and it’s an honor to help make this impact.” Congressman Norcross’s Key Priorities in the FY23 Omnibus Job Training and Education: $18.4 billion for Title I schools, an increase of $850 million from the previous year. The bill also provides $10.5 billion for the Employment and Training Administration and $285 million for Registered Apprenticeships nationwide, which allow apprentices to “earn while they learn” a skilled trade and provide an opportunity to begin a good-paying career without a traditional four-year college background. Health Care Access: $47 billion for the National Institute of Health (NIH). The bill also provides critical funding to improve health outcomes for young families who live in underserved communities. Ensuring permanent, mandatory and continuous coverage for the 40 million children enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP. Child Care: $8.02 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant program, which represents a 30 percent boost. The bill also creates a nationwide permanent Summer EBT Program for millions of children to get healthy, nutritious meals in the summer. Mental and Behavioral Health: $7.5 billion for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), an increase of $970 million in funding from FY22 levels. Additionally, key provisions of Rep. Norcross’s Opioid Treatment Access Act were included in the FY23 omnibus, which will cut red tape for mobile clinics offering methadone treatment for opioid use disorder. National Security: $797.7 billion to support our men and women in uniform, including an increase of $109.05 million for safety upgrades for military vehicles to keep servicemembers safe while operating them. This bill also includes $45 billion to continue supporting the Ukrainian people against Putin’s war. Cleaner Energy and Independence: A $1.2 billion increase in investments towards research, development and deployment of clean energy made in America. Federal Student Aid Programs: Increased the maximum allowable Pell Grant by $500 to $7,395 – a substantial increase in the maximum award that will help working families pursue higher educational opportunities. Worker Protection Agencies: $1.9 billion, an increase of $52 million above fiscal year 2021, which will collectively look after workers interests and ensure they are receiving the wages and benefits they earned fair and square. Workers’ Rights: $299 million for the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), a $25 million increase in funding from FY22. Though not nearly enough to keep up with increased numbers of union petitions, this is the first time the NLRB has received an increase in funding since FY2010 and ensures the agency will be able to avoid steep staffing cuts. Retirement Savings: Key provisions in FY23 omnibus bill will allow individuals with low and moderate incomes to receive a 50% government matching contribution (up to $2,000) that will be deposited into their 401(k) or IRA. Community Projects for South Jersey: 15 community funding projects were secured as part of the guidelines issued by the House Appropriations Committee. Background The text of the FY23 omnibus is here. A full summary of the 12 regular appropriations bills is here. Explanatory statements are available here. A summary of the Ukraine supplemental is here. FY23 Appropriations Requests are here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-applauds-passage-omnibus-package,Pallone Applauds Passage of Omnibus Package,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement today after the House passed H.R. 2617, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023: ""Today, the Democratic House majority passed a comprehensive government funding package that invests in the American people. ""As Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, I'm proud to have secured provisions in the bill that will increase access to health care and establish critically important consumer protections. ""The government funding agreement guarantees 12 months of continuous Medicaid coverage for 40 million of our nation's children, provides two years of additional CHIP funding, and permanently extends the option for states to offer 12 months of Medicaid coverage to new moms. In addition, it provides resources and support to address our nation's mental health and substance use disorder crises, which we know are especially acute among young people. ""I'm also pleased the omnibus ensures Puerto Rico and the U.S. Territories have the Medicaid funding they need to care for their residents. ""The bill equips FDA and CDC with important new tools and resources to fulfill their missions protecting the health and safety of Americans. After more than 80 years since our cosmetic safety laws were last updated, Congress is passing legislation I've long championed to empower FDA with the tools and resources it needs to oversee the cosmetics industry. It's a huge win for consumers and I'm thrilled it's going to be signed into law. ""Finally, the omnibus will guard consumers against counterfeit and dangerous products, bolster U.S. manufacturing, and continue to promote our economic competitiveness on the world stage. ""I'm proud Democrats were able to secure so many important health care and consumer protection provisions in this bill and I look forward to President Biden signing it into law soon."" Health Care Provisions in the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus: Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP): The omnibus extends funding for CHIP for two years through fiscal year 2029, requires children to be provided with 12 months of continuous coverage in Medicaid and CHIP effective January 1, 2024, and makes permanent a state option to allow states to continue to provide 12 months of continuous coverage during the postpartum period in Medicaid or CHIP. Medicaid Funding for the U.S. Territories: The omnibus extends Puerto Rico's higher federal Medicaid match of 76 percent through fiscal year 2027 and permanently extends a higher federal Medicaid match of 83 percent for American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Mental Health Care: The omnibus includes a number of provisions to address the nation's mental health crisis by strengthening, expanding, and establishing more than 30 critical programs that collectively support mental health care and substance use disorder prevention, care, treatment, peer support, and recovery support services. It reauthorizes the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Program, the Community Mental Health Service Block Grants, and the renamed Substance Use and Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Block Grants. The bill also includes grant funding to support the maternal mental programs, establishes a maternal mental health hotline and a related task force. It extends mental health parity to state and local government workers and bolsters the mental health and substance use disorder workforce through increased capacity and training. It also provides Medicare Part B coverage of mental health counselor and therapist services. Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) & Medication Access and Training Expansion (MATE): The omnibus expands patient access to opioid addiction treatment by making it easier for health care providers to dispense buprenorphine for opioid use disorder maintenance or detoxification treatment. The bill also requires health care providers to complete a training requirement on identifying and treating patients with substance use disorders. Accelerated Approval: The omnibus modernizes and strengthens FDA's ability to oversee drugs that are approved through the accelerated approval pathway. The bill requires FDA to specify conditions for required postapproval studies and authorizes the agency to require postapproval studies to be underway at the time of approval or within a specified time period following approval. The omnibus also clarifies and streamlines the existing authority to withdraw approvals where sponsors fail to conduct studies with due diligence. Clinical Trial Diversity: The omnibus requires FDA to take a series of actions intended to modernize and improve clinical trials including increasing the diversity and engagement of trial participants. Cosmetics Reform: The omnibus strengthens FDA's ability to regulate the safety of cosmetics and personal care products. The bill empowers FDA to establish good manufacturing practices, requires manufacturers to report adverse events, requires manufacturing facilities to be registered, requires cosmetic product labels to list fragrance allergens and contact information to report adverse event reports, and provides FDA with mandatory recall authority. Pallone has long been a champion of cosmetics reform. ARPA-H: The omnibus establishes the Advanced Research Projects Agency – Health (ARPA-H), an advance research entity that will accelerate innovation in health and medicine by investing in novel, broadly applicable, high-risk, high-reward research projects. Lymphedema Compression Treatment: The omnibus provides Medicare Part B coverage of compression garments for the treatment of lymphedema. Pandemic Preparedness: The omnibus provides important new authorities for improving the Strategic National Stockpile to ensure critical pandemic supplies are operational, resilient, and ready to deploy in times of need. The bill also provides critical support to the public health workforce by encouraging investments in the next generation of health care workers through grants and public health loan forgiveness. Telehealth: The omnibus continues Medicare's expanded access to telehealth by extending COVID-19 telehealth flexibilities for an additional two years, through December 31, 2024. Consumer Protection & Commerce Provisions in the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus: Online Marketplaces: The omnibus establishes a national standard, enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and State Attorneys General, that require online platforms that allow third party sellers of consumer products to verify the identity of high-volume third-party sellers, enabling consumers to obtain basic identification and contact information for certain sellers. Product Safety: The bill directs the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to promulgate a consumer product safety standard for free standing clothing storage units to protect children up to 72 months of age from tip-over related death or injury. Manufacturing.gov: The omnibus requires the Department of Commerce to establish a section of the manufacturing.gov website to serve as the primary hub for information relating to federal manufacturing programs. Travel and Tourism: The bill establishes the position of Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Travel and Tourism to be appointed by the President, tasked with developing a 10-year strategy with annual goals to boost the industry and aggregating data on domestic travel and tourism trends. Cybersecurity: The omnibus requires the FTC to report on cross-border complaints received that involve ransomware or other cyber-related attacks committed by certain foreign individuals, companies, and governments. The report must focus specifically on attacks committed by Russia, China, North Korea, or Iran or individuals or companies that are located in or have ties to those countries. This provision was authored by Schakowsky and Bilirakis. Public Safety: The bill authorizes $2.5 million for the CPSC to carry out an education and awareness campaign to inform the public of methods to prevent drowning and entrapment in swimming pools.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-secures-513-million-federal-funding-15-projects-middlesex-and-monmouth,Pallone Secures $51.3 Million in Federal Funding for 15 Projects in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"December 23, 2022 Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) secured $51,373,858 for 15 projects in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties in a federal spending bill for Fiscal Year 2023. The projects will help rebuild and repair infrastructure, support public health and educational facilities, invest in scientific research, and improve coastal resilience. President Biden is expected to sign the bill soon. ""These projects are a major achievement for my Congressional district and will help rebuild critical infrastructure, promote public health, and bolster educational funding in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties,"" Congressman Pallone said. ""These investments will also help create jobs with better pay, make us safer, strengthen our communities, and address the climate crisis. I'm proud that we were able to get these projects across the finish line and look forward to seeing President Biden sign the underlying legislation into law."" The 15 projects include: $2.1 million to repair deteriorating bulkhead in Atlantic Highlands that is one of the most critical pieces of infrastructure for residents and businesses near the public marina. $500,000 for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Monmouth County to support school-aged children who have experienced trauma and abuse in their homes. $6 million to help build the Ferry Terminal Building in Carteret that will run from Central New Jersey to downtown Manhattan. $1.25 million for the restoration of the Church of the Presidents in Long Branch. $640,000 to educate entrepreneurs from underserved communities in Central New Jersey at Monmouth University. $500,000 to complete the final phase of an extensive restoration project at the Metlar-Bodine House Museum Historic Site, including construction of the Forever the 4th gallery that will feature the Ross Hall Wall and other important historic treasures. $2.5 million for coastal resiliency projects in the communities around Naval Weapons Station Earle. $2.25 million for Old Bridge to construct a new multipurpose building along the Laurence Harbor beachfront that will help the community expand recreational opportunities for residents. $1 million for Middlesex College to enhance student support to improve retention and increase graduation rates for adult learners and improve the lives of Middlesex County residents who have been incarcerated or at greater risk of being incarcerated. $26 million to dredge both the entrance of the Shrewsbury and Navesink Rivers at Sandy Hook as well as the Navesink River to Red Bank and the Shrewsbury River as far as the Branchport Avenue Bridge in Long Branch – a total of approximately 14 miles. $2.25 million to create a waterfront park in South Amboy by reclaiming and rehabilitating the waterfront area to create an open park concept and conservation area. $370,725 to modernize the emergency operations center in South Plainfield with new equipment and upgrades the Communications and 9-1-1 Center used to coordinate police, fire, and EMS services during emergencies. $3 million to renovate and expand the Dr. William Toth Health Center in Edison to better meet the health needs of the community, especially seniors. $1.5 million for Perth Amboy to complete improvements and construct multipurpose fields at the Veterans Memorial Youth League Complex Park. $1.5 million to purchase new electric buses and charging infrastructure in Woodbridge, creating cleaner air and more transportation options.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-secures-robust-funding-armenia-and-artsakh-omnibus-spending-bill,Pallone Secures Robust Funding for Armenia and Artsakh in the Omnibus Spending Bill,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues Co-Chair Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Jackie Speier (CA-14), David Valadao (CA-21), and Adam B. Schiff (CA-28) announced the inclusion of an unprecedented $60 million in economic assistance for Armenia and $2 million for demining activities in Artsakh in the Consolidated Appropriations Act spending bill for Fiscal Year 2023. This welcomed news comes after the Caucus Co-Chairs and 60 Members of Congress sent a letter in April, requesting the Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs include robust aid for Armenia and Artsakh in the bill. The funding will help Armenia bolster its economic development, private sector productivity, energy independence, and democratic and rule of law reforms. The bill also includes funding for demining activities that will help clear some of the dangerous mines and unexploded ordinances on civilian lands in Artsakh. Additionally, the bill includes language requiring the State Department and USAID to develop an assistance strategy by identifying resources and programs available to address humanitarian and recovery needs from the deadly 2020 war provoked by Azerbaijan in Artsakh. ""The significant economic support for Armenia and Artsakh included in the Fiscal Year 2023 funding bill demonstrates a firm commitment from Congress to the Armenian people. We are pleased with the strong commitment the Appropriations Committee has made to the U.S.-Armenia relationship, and especially thank Appropriations State and Foreign Relations Subcommittee Chairwoman Barbara Lee (CA-13) and others on the Committee for their work on this bill. This funding will go a long way in helping Armenia to build upon the significant democratic reforms it is currently enacting and help it grow into a strong regional economic partner for the United States,"" the lawmakers said. ""We also welcome the inclusion of demining funding for Artsakh and the language requiring the Administration to develop an assistance strategy to address the ongoing humanitarian needs relating to the 2020 war. But more must be done to help the people of Armenia and Artsakh in their time of need, especially as Azerbaijan continues its illegal blockade of the Lachin Corridor that is preventing the transportation of vital food, energy, medical supplies, and other essential good from going through, while also restricting civilian freedom of movement. Holding Azerbaijan accountable for their aggressions and destabilizing actions in the region is the only way to protect the people of Artsakh from this man-made humanitarian disaster and find a lasting settlement for this conflict. We will continue to explore every action possible to halt any further funding to the corrupt Aliyev regime and bring them back to the negotiating table through the OSCE Minsk Group and other multilateral processes,"" the lawmakers concluded. In September 2020, Azerbaijan, actively aided by Turkey and foreign mercenaries, initiated a deadly invasion of Artsakh that led to six weeks of devastating fighting that killed more than 5,000 people and forced more than 100,000 ethnic Armenians to flee their homes. Artsakh and Armenia continue to grapple with an ongoing humanitarian crisis that resulted from the invasion. Azerbaijan continues to provocatively station troops in Armenian territory while falsely declaring the land as its own and illegally holding ethnic Armenians as detainees and prisoners of war in contravention of international human rights law. It has also weaponized civilian infrastructure like the Lachin Corridor and natural gas pipes connecting Armenia and Artsakh to intimidate Artsakh and fabricate a humanitarian crisis that threatens the 120,000 people who live there.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-celebrates-legislative-victories-in-omnibus-funding-legislation,Rep. Watson Coleman Celebrates Legislative Victories in Omnibus Funding Legislation,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) voted to pass an omnibus funding bill that would keep the federal government funded through the end of fiscal year 2023. The bill addresses many of the priorities of the 12th District, including mental health equity, funding for public transit, and an increase in funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides lifesaving assistance for Americans facing food insecurity . Also included in the legislation are the Congresswoman’s National Liberty Memorial Preservation Act and an indefinite suspension of clawbacks for victims of Superstorm Sandy. “By passing this omnibus funding bill, Congress is not only keeping the government running, but also directly addressing the needs of working families in New Jersey’s 12th District and beyond,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “In addition to funding essential government programs, this legislation delivers real results for some of our most vulnerable communities, including those still recovering from Superstorm Sandy. These families will now be able to put this decade-long nightmare behind them.” Also included in the package is the final $30 million needed to complete the Green Brook Sub Basin Flood Control Project. The Congresswoman previously secured nearly $500 million for the project. “For decades, this project has gone unfinished due to insufficient federal funding. The fiscal year 2023 omnibus will finally change that,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “Central Jersey communities have always faced the risk of flooding, and climate change has only made this flooding more frequent, more severe, and more deadly. By investing in infrastructure like the Green Brook Sub Basin Flood Control Project, we are protecting at-risk communities in the 12th District and preventing further loss of life.” Investments from this omnibus legislation will advance the Congresswoman’s agenda of building an America that works for all. Investments include: Guarantees a year of health care coverage for 940,000 children in New Jersey enrolled in Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program. $25 million in additional funding for the National Labor Relations Board, the agency responsible for protecting workers’ rights and enforcing laws against unjust labor practices A block grant for early childhood development and an increase in funding for Head Start, a federal program providing early childhood education and health services to low-income families Additional funding for the new 24/7 9-8-8 National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline The largest-ever increase in maternal health block grants Legal aid assistance to protect renters from unlawful eviction Expanded access to PrEP to prevent the spread of HIV Increased funding to support the Violence Against Women Act, which provides for responses to domestic and sexual violence $125 million in grants to support the Second Chance Act, which facilitates programs to reduce recidivism by helping previously incarcerated Americans re-enter society Hate crime prevention, including funding for both community social justice organizations and the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division $3.4 billion for energy efficiency and renewable energy, including $250 million for battery and electrification technologies $1.5 billion for LIHEAP, which helps keep low-income families warm and safe during the winter Disaster supplemental relief, including $1.8 billion for flood prevention Dedicates the highest-ever level of federal funding for the arts and humanities, including $207 million each for the National Endowments for the Arts and Humanities and $1.1 billion for the Smithsonian Institution Many of the legislation’s provisions would have an outsized impact on New Jersey communities. Amtrak will receive $2.45 billion, more than half of which will go to the Northeast Corridor. Additionally, the federal grant program funding the Gateway Tunnel project will receive $2.6 billion. The Army Corps of Engineers, which is tasked with building and maintaining infrastructure and military facilities, will receive $37.7 million for projects in New Jersey. The government funding package will create good-paying jobs, increase opportunity for the middle class and small businesses, and provide a lifeline for working families. The funding for New Jersey’s 12th District and funding increases for critical government programs will continue to reverse decades of disinvestment in our communities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-celebrates-reauthorization-of-national-heritage-areas,Rep. Watson Coleman Celebrates Reauthorization of National Heritage Areas,2022-12-22,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Passage of the National Heritage Area Act to reauthorize NHAs for 15 years will help ensure long-term stability and investment Today, the House passed S. 1942, the National Heritage Area Act with vast bipartisan support. This bill reauthorizes 45 of the 55 National Heritage Areas for the next 15 years. This is an improvement over the standard 2-year renewals many sites must apply for each Congress. The long-term reauthorization allows for better planning efforts and investment by the heritage areas. “By passing this long-term extension our National Heritage Areas, including the Crossroads of the American Revolution NHA in New Jersey, will be able to better plan their programming and investments,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “With the upcoming celebrations of the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this extension gives our NHA’s the confidence to prepare for increased tourism surrounding the nation’s Semiquincentennial.” National Heritage Areas drive economic opportunity in local communities across the country. The NHA Act also establishes the first-ever standardized criteria for designating new NHAs and strengthen accountability by creating an evaluation process for existing sites. ""Crossroads - New Jersey's only NHA - was scheduled to sunset in September 2023,"" said Crossroads Executive Director Carrie Fellows. ""As we ramp up planning for the 250th, Crossroads is working harder than ever to raise the profile of New Jersey's role in the American Revolution, tell its stories and make the connections between people and places that changed history. Now we will be able to do that work, knowing we'll still exist after September. This investment in our future means a great deal to me and my colleagues in the Alliance for National Heritage Areas (ANHA) and we are grateful."" The Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area encompasses approximately 2,155 square miles over 212 municipalities and works with dozens of historic sites in New Jersey including Washington Crossing where Washington Crossed the Delaware for a surprise attack on Hessian troops during Christmas 1776. General George Washington spent more time in New Jersey than any other colony during the Revolutionary War. Congresswoman Watson Coleman was a cosponsor of the House companion bill, H.R. 1316. S. 1942 passed the House by a vote of 326 to 95.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-ukrainian-president-zelenskyys-address-to-congress,Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s Address to Congress,2022-12-21,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Tonight, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) attended Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s address to a joint session of Congress. Following Zelenskyy’s speech, the Congresswoman issued this statement: “For ten months, President Zelenskyy has led his nation with unwavering courage as Ukrainians fight back against Putin’s horrific, unlawful invasion. I am in awe of his heroic leadership and dedication to his people. “As the sovereign nation of Ukraine battles Putin’s forces, we are reminded that this war is not simply one of Ukraine versus Russia. This is a conflict of oppressed versus oppressor, of liberty versus tyranny. The fight for Ukraine is the fight for democracy itself. “With bipartisan support, Congress has delivered billions in aid for Ukraine this year. President Zelenskyy’s address comes as Congress prepares to pass another round of security, economic, and humanitarian support for his people. Appealing to our shared values of freedom and self-determination, President Zelenskyy brought together Members of Congress from across the aisle and reinvigorated our support for this noble cause.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/reps-watson-coleman-pallone-kim-applaud-indefinite-extension-of-clawbacks-in-federal-spending-bill,"Reps. Watson Coleman, Pallone, Kim Applaud Indefinite Extension of Clawbacks in Federal Spending Bill",2022-12-21,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), and Andy Kim (NJ-03) today applauded an indefinite extension of recoupment efforts for debt owed to the federal government in relation to Superstorm Sandy that has been included in the Omnibus Fiscal Year 2023 package. These recoupment efforts known as “clawbacks” have blindsided homeowners because many New Jersey residents applied for loans and benefits offered by various federal programs at the recommendation of the government. The reprieve provides relief for approximately 1,700 households in New Jersey that owe millions of dollars. “New Jersey families were decimated by Superstorm Sandy and are still on the hook for millions of dollars in federal clawbacks through no fault of their own. An indefinite extension in recoupment of these funds will help hundreds of New Jersey families. My colleagues and I will continue fighting for total forgiveness so residents can have the peace of mind they deserve,” said Congressman Pallone. The indefinite extension will provide relief for families currently required to pay back disaster relief funds they received after Superstorm Sandy. Many homeowners who received relief funds have been required to repay some or all the funds, creating a financial burden. “America came together after Superstorm Sandy to help New Jerseyans through a very dark period,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “Now those families can finally put this decade long nightmare behind them. The burden of having to pay back repair money that was erroneously given to them through no fault of their own is finally being lifted. I’m grateful to my colleagues, Congressmen Frank Pallone and Andy Kim for their tireless work to see this chapter finally closed.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=CE4C0649-01F5-41B1-8816-C35512A2F227,Rep. Norcross Applauds Funding for National Labor Relations Board in Omnibus Appropriations Package,2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), co-founder of the Congressional Labor Caucus, released the following statement following the inclusion of increased funding for the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in the proposed Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, a bipartisan funding package of 12 appropriations bills and supplemental funding. “The increase in NLRB funding is a sigh of relief for millions of America’s workers,” said Congressman Norcross. “For months, I’ve spoken out about the dire funding levels at the NLRB and how the agency plays a vital and independent role in ensuring fairness for both the employees and employer. If the NLRB doesn’t have the money to operate, their staff gets furloughed, and workers and employers are put at risk. We still have a long way to go to restore this agency to its proper place, but this funding can’t come soon enough. I want to thank House Appropriations Committee Chair Rosa DeLauro and Senate appropriators for coming together to create a federal budget that reflects our nation’s values, and I remain committed to leveling the playing field by holding bad actors accountable for violating our labor laws.” As co-founder of Labor Caucus and Congress’s only union electrician, Congressman Norcross has fought tirelessly to ensure the NLRB is funded. In April 2022, Norcross led 148 of his colleagues in pushing for adequate funding for the National Labor Relations Board. He then escalated this request in November 2022.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-start-beach-replenishment-project-elberon,Pallone Announces Start of Beach Replenishment Project in Elberon,2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Long Branch, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the Army Corps of Engineers will begin beach replenishment in Elberon around January 1. The Corps will place 1.2 million cubic yards of sand starting at the southern end of Elberon at Lincoln Avenue in the next few weeks and work north to Takanassee Lake at North Lake Drive. The Elberon project is expected to be completed no later than March 1. The federal funding comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Pallone pushed for last year. Depending on the time it takes to complete the Elberon project, the Army Corps may also exercise an option to place 300,000 cubic yards of sand from Takanassee Lake north to Cedar Avenue in the West End section of Long Branch. There is also an additional option in Monmouth Beach that includes 1 million cubic yards from Central Road south to Valentine Street. ""Beach replenishment is critical to our beaches and communities along the Jersey Shore,"" Pallone said. ""Coastal restoration projects like beach replenishment ensure that our beaches and infrastructure remain resilient after bad weather events. I would like to thank the Army Corps of Engineers for their continued dedication to this important project in our state. Beach replenishment will make sure our beautiful beaches will remain safe and enjoyable for residents and tourists for years to come."" ""By replenishing New Jersey's beaches, we better protect our communities from coastal erosion while improving our neighbors' and visitors' experience of the Jersey Shore,"" said Shawn M. LaTourette, State Commissioner of Environmental Protection. ""Critical beach renourishment projects are only possible with the help of champions like Congressman Pallone, who has procured the federal resources to support this project, and our partners in project implementation, including the Army Corps of Engineers and municipalities like Long Branch. The Murphy Administration is grateful for your partnership and dedication to shore protection."" ""The Army Corps of Engineers, New York District is committed to ensuring all coastal communities are better protected from storms. With the start of beach replenishment work here in Elberon, we are honoring that commitment as well as the many other commitments we have fulfilled since Hurricane Sandy devastated the New Jersey and New York coastlines,"" said Colonel Matthew Luzzatto, Commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District. ""The Corps will steadfastly continue to solve our Nation's toughest engineering challenges while reducing coastal storm risk for the taxpayers of this country. I would like to thank all of our partners at the federal, state, and local levels for their outstanding support."" Pallone has been a longtime advocate for beach replenishment along the Jersey Shore. Following Superstorm Sandy, Congressman Pallone requested the Federal Emergency Management Agency allocate emergency funding to address immediate needs of impacted homeowners and businesses as well as repair breached dunes and damaged beaches to protect New Jersey's coastal areas from future flooding. As a result, most of the beaches from Sea Bright to Manasquan were filled, which was the largest beach replenishment project ever undertaken by the Army Corps.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-watson-coleman-kim-applaud-indefinite-extension-clawbacks-federal,"Pallone, Watson Coleman, Kim Applaud Indefinite Extension of Clawbacks in Federal Spending Bill",2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Andy Kim (NJ-03) today applauded an indefinite extension of recoupment efforts for debt owed to the federal government in relation to Superstorm Sandy that has been included in the Omnibus Fiscal Year 2023 package. These recoupment efforts known as ""clawbacks"" have blindsided homeowners because many New Jersey residents applied for loans and benefits offered by various federal programs at the recommendation of the government. The reprieve provides relief for approximately 1,700 households in New Jersey that owe millions of dollars. ""New Jersey families were decimated by Superstorm Sandy and are still on the hook for millions of dollars in federal clawbacks through no fault of their own. An indefinite extension in recoupment of these funds will help hundreds of New Jersey families. My colleagues and I will continue fighting for total forgiveness so residents can have the peace of mind they deserve,"" said Congressman Pallone. The indefinite extension will provide relief for families currently required to pay back disaster relief funds they received after Superstorm Sandy. Many homeowners who received relief funds have been required to repay some or all the funds, creating a financial burden. ""America came together after Superstorm Sandy to help New Jerseyans through a very dark period,"" said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. ""Now those families can finally put this decade long nightmare behind them. The burden of having to pay back repair money that was erroneously given to them through no fault of their own is finally being lifted. I'm grateful to my colleagues, Congressmen Frank Pallone and Andy Kim for their tireless work to see this chapter finally closed.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watson-coleman-statement-on-executive-summary-of-the-final-report-by-the-select-committee-to-investigate-january-6th,Watson Coleman Statement on Executive Summary of the Final Report by the Select Committee to Investigate January 6th,2022-12-19,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued this statement after the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack released the executive summary to its final report and made referrals to the Justice Department: “I’m grateful for the thorough, transparent, and courageous work of the bipartisan Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack. Under the leadership of Chair Bennie Thompson and Vice Chair Liz Cheney, the committee pursued the truth of the events leading up to the insurrection and attempted coup against the will of the American people. “January 6, 2021 was a dark day for our democracy. The Committee followed the facts leading to today’s distressing but necessary referrals. Their work, along with the ongoing work of the Justice Department, will help to ensure that this never happens again. “In the United States, no one is above the law. Accountability is necessary to uphold the rule of law and ensure future peaceful transfers of power.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-congressional-black-caucus-members-urge-senate-leadership-to-include-crown-act-in-end-of-year-legislation,"Rep. Watson Coleman, Congressional Black Caucus Members Urge Senate Leadership to Include CROWN Act in End-of-Year Legislation",2022-12-15,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 15, 2022) — Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) led a group of her colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus in a letter calling for Senate leadership to include the Congresswoman’s CROWN Act in its end-of-year omnibus funding legislation. The CROWN Act would prohibit discrimination based on a person's hair texture or hairstyle if that style or texture is commonly associated with a particular race or national origin. Specifically, the bill prohibits this type of discrimination against those participating in federally assisted programs, housing programs, public accommodations, and employment. On Wednesday, Senate Republicans, led by Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), blocked the bill’s passage. The letter reads in part: This is not “just a hair” issue, this is a Civil Rights issue. Hair-based discrimination remains a source of racial injustice with serious economic consequences for Black people. Yet, current interpretations of Civil Rights legislation often limit anti-discrimination protections to skin color, but not hair. This continues to leave many Black people vulnerable to discriminatory practices. Many Black people face discrimination at school, in the workplace, and elsewhere because the way their hair naturally grows out of their heads is deemed “unacceptable” or “unprofessional.” Specifically, Black women are 1.5 times more likely than white women to be sent home from work because of their hair. The letter continues: The CROWN Act bridges the gap in current anti-discrimination legislation. This bill would prohibit discrimination based on an individual’s style or texture of hair by including an individual’s style of hair that is tightly coiled or tightly-curled, locs, cornrows, twists, braids, Bantu knots, Afros and any other style of hair commonly associated with a race or national origin in the definition of racial discrimination.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-republicans-block-passage-of-crown-act,Senate Republicans Block Passage of CROWN Act,2022-12-14,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 14, 2022) — Today, Senate Republicans blocked passage of the CROWN Act, which passed the House earlier this year. The CROWN Act bans hair discrimination, including discrimination against natural Black hair. Specifically, the bill prohibits this type of discrimination against those participating in federally assisted programs, housing programs, public accommodations, and employment. Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) reintroduced the CROWN Act in 2021. Despite bipartisan, bicameral support, the CROWN Act did not garner support from enough Republican Senators to override a filibuster. Following the bill’s failure to pass the Senate, Congresswoman Watson Coleman issued this statement: “The Senate continues to stand in the way of progress for our country. Republicans’ obstruction of the CROWN Act is part of a long tradition of weaponizing the filibuster to block civil rights legislation. “When the CROWN Act was first introduced during the 116th Congress, it passed the House by voice vote without objection. When I reintroduced it last year, it passed the House once again, despite the Republican efforts to delay it. In both instances, Republican Senators stood in the way of the bill’s passage. “It saddens and angers me that, in the year 2022, something as simple as opposing racial discrimination has become controversial. My colleagues across the aisle were presented with an opportunity to stand united against discrimination. They chose instead to give in to the climate of division and hyper-partisanship. “Our fight is far from over. Today, I am disappointed, but not defeated. I remain steadfast in my commitment to protecting all Americans’ right to exist as their authentic selves.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/armenia-caucus-co-chairs-issue-statement-escalation-azerbaijani-humanitarian,Armenia Caucus Co-Chairs Issue Statement on Escalation of Azerbaijani Humanitarian Abuses in Artsakh,2022-12-13,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues Co-Chairs Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Gus M. Bilirakis (FL-12), Jackie Speier (CA-14), David G. Valadao (CA-21), and Adam B. Schiff (CA-28) issued the following statement after troubling reports of Azerbaijanis blocking the sole road connecting the people of Artsakh to Armenia and posing huge risks to vulnerable populations: ""We condemn the aggressive actions taken by Azerbaijan in Nagorno Karabakh. It is disturbing that the only time the people of Azerbaijan are allowed to freely protest is when it threatens the lives of Armenians. Their blockade of the Lachin Corridor appears coordinated and intended to shut off the only remaining supply route for much of Artsakh's food, medical supplies and transport, and other essential goods, not to mention further restrict the people of Artsakh's freedom of movement. Additional reports allege that Azerbaijan has also shut off one of the major sources of natural gas for civilians in the territory, potentially leaving tens of thousands without heating as temperatures plummet, much like it did earlier this year in March.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-elected-ranking-member-energy-and-commerce-committee-118th-congress,Pallone Elected Ranking Member of Energy and Commerce Committee for 118th Congress,2022-12-13,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) today issued the following statement after the House Democratic Caucus unanimously elected him Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee for the 118th Congress: ""I am honored to be elected Ranking Member of the Energy and Commerce Committee. Over the last two years, we accomplished a tremendous amount for the American people, and I am grateful to my Democratic colleagues for once again entrusting me to lead this Committee in the upcoming Congress. ""I look forward to continuing to work closely with all my colleagues to build on our efforts to lower costs for American families, bolster our economy, combat the climate crisis, and protect consumers. I am also committed to ensuring that the legislative achievements of the past two years are being implemented by the Administration as we intended and will aggressively oppose any Republican efforts to undermine them in any way.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-winners-2022-congressional-app-challenge,Pallone Announces Winners of 2022 Congressional App Challenge,2022-12-10,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"New Brunswick, NJ – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced the winners of the 2022 Congressional App Challenge for high school and middle school students in New Jersey's Sixth Congressional District. Ashvin Trehan, Siddharth Paul, and Jared Wyetzner from Metuchen High School won this year's competition. Their app, Myndful, is an artificial intelligence mental health resource navigator that helps adolescents access and understand mental health resources. ""The Congressional App Challenge is an important platform for students to showcase their creativity and technical skills,"" said Pallone. ""I congratulate Ashvin, Siddharth, and Jared for their winning app and applaud all the participants for their creative ideas. The COVID-19 pandemic showed just how critical mental health support is. This app will help connect students with the assistance they need. I will continue to support investments in STEM education in New Jersey to make sure the United States remains at the forefront of innovation and research. I want to thank the experts who helped assess each app and provide feedback to the students."" Pranav Sitaraman won second place with his app, Spruce It Up!, and Ishaan Gupte won third place with his app, NRgize. Spruce It Up! is a service-based app that helps communities report areas that need cleaning and then connects them with volunteers who can sign up to come and help. NRgize uses Apple Maps to help electric vehicle owners locate charging stations during their trip. The app can be paired with traditional voice service devices such as Alexa.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=DFE69B02-0E98-418D-A6AE-AB0999A629FE,Rep. Norcross Votes to Protect Marriage Equality for Same-Sex and Interracial Couples,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) delivered the following speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives before voting to pass the Respect for Marriage Act. The bill enshrines the right of same-sex and interracial couples to marry under federal law in states that might decline to recognize certain marriages should existing protections be rolled back. The Respect for Marriage Act now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “Thank you, Mr. Speaker. “I rise today to speak on behalf of marriage equality. “Although the bills we write and pass regularly affect millions of lives, rarely is the legislation we vote on so personal as the bill we pass today: the Respect for Marriage Act. “My daughter and her wife are two of the estimated 26 million Americans whose freedom to marry will be protected by this bill. “Their son – my one-year-old grandson – can now grow up without risk of his family being torn apart. “Love is a precious thing, and now my daughters know that our nation respects their marriage. “You cannot legislate love. But you can give love the protection of our laws.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FA251C2F-BA95-4A48-9C93-B75866BB1DD8,Rep. Norcross Helps Pass Annual Defense Bill to Support Service Members and National Security,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), chair of the Tactical Air and Land Forces (TAL) Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), voted to pass the Senate amendment to H.R. 7776, known as James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23). The NDAA strengthens U.S. national security by investing in U.S. warfighters and the equipment they rely on, and the American workers who form the backbone of America’s national security industrial base. “Today, I voted to strengthen America’s defense by supporting the hardworking servicemembers who serve and protect our nation,” said Congressman Norcross. “The bill includes the critical funding for Humvee safety that I championed for months, helping to ensure that the vehicles used by our troops do not put them at undue risk of harm. It also includes provisions I wrote to prioritize access to mental health services for our men and women in uniform because I firmly believe we must take care of those to take care of us. Additionally, the bill contains investments in research and development efforts back in South Jersey that are critical to our national defense and regional economy. I thank my House colleagues for this bipartisan effort to defend our vital national interests. Safeguarding our national security will always be one of my top priorities in Congress.” The annual defense bill touches all aspects of the Department of Defense (DoD), from equipment modernization efforts that ensure the U.S. Armed Forces can meet future threats to wages for construction workers and teachers working on U.S. military bases. Congressman Norcross takes seriously his responsibility to ensure members of the U.S. military are supplied with the equipment and training they need to dominate the battlefield. His track record of standing up for the women and men in uniform includes a provision in the FY23 NDAA that addresses adequate mental health support services through TRICARE and a provision that supplies an additional $183 million to address safety issues in Humvees that had led to a recent string of deadly accidents. FY23 NDAA includes provisions secured by Rep. Norcross for South Jersey: $25 million for research and engineering projects enabling rapid entry and sustainment in the Arctic and other cold regions; high-performance polymer and coatings; and the survivability of turret gunners being conducted at Rowan University. Over $2.6 billion for the KC-46A Pegasus air tanker program, including 15 aircraft, which will benefit the refueling mission at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Funding for additional V-22 Ospreys, which will enhance national security while providing stability and predictability to many workers in New Jersey’s 1st Congressional District who play a critical role in our national industrial base. Directing the DoD to provide a status update on its efforts to reduce the risk posed by forever chemicals/PFAS to servicemembers and defense workers. Improved servicemember mental health by requiring the Government Accountability Office to examine the types of mental health benefits provided under TRICARE and identify any limits that are not also imposed on non-mental health services to promote parity of mental and physical health. Securing significant investments in clean energy and energy efficiency at DoD, harnessing solar and electric technologies to ensure that our defense facilities and vehicle fleets are resilient to climate disasters and energy disruptions. Water Resources Development Act provisions, including: A study to better understand flooding risks and to help flood risk management in Camden and Gloucester counties, including Brooklawn, Bellmawr, Camden City, Gloucester City, Westville, Mt. Ephraim, and Runnemede. $119 million for the City of Camden’s outdated combined wastewater and stormwater management infrastructure to reduce overflows and flooding. $20 million for the Lower Delaware River Basin, including projects for wastewater treatment and related facilities (such as sewer overflow infrastructure improvements and other stormwater management) in the South Jersey region neighboring the Delaware River Bay and nearby rivers and streams. The House’s version of FY23 NDAA also includes a range of key national security priorities for House Democrats:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-brittney-griners-release,Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Brittney Griner's Release,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 8, 2022) — Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued the following statement on the release of Brittney Griner: “Almost one year ago, Brittney Griner was wrongfully detained in Russia, confined under horrific conditions. “I’m overjoyed to learn of her release this morning and comforted to know she will be with her family for the holidays. While I am pleased to hear of her return, she never should have been detained in the first place. “Brittney Griner was in Russia to supplement her income as a professional athlete. If there were equity and fairness between men’s and women’s basketball in our country, she never would have been in that situation. From the office to the basketball court, women deserve equal pay for equal work. “The day we are celebrating is a long-awaited one. I wish peace and health this holiday season for Brittney, her wife, and her family. “As we celebrate Brittney Griner’s release, we must not forget that Paul Whelan remains wrongfully detained in Russia. My heart is with Paul and his family, and I continue to pray for his safe return.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-votes-to-write-marriage-equality-into-federal-law,Rep. Watson Coleman Votes to Write Marriage Equality Into Federal Law,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 8, 2022) — Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) voted to pass the Respect for Marriage Act, which federally protects same-sex and interracial couples’ right to marry. In addition to protecting marriage equality at the federal level, this legislation provides for additional state-level protections and repeals the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act. The House initially passed the Respect for Marriage Act earlier this year, and the Senate amended and passed it in November. Following the House’s vote today, the bill heads to President Biden’s desk. Congresswoman Watson Coleman issued the following statement on the bill’s passage: “It has been a long journey since I helped pass marriage equality legislation during my time in the New Jersey State Assembly. At the time, then-Governor Christie vetoed the bill. “I am in awe of how far our nation has come in just ten short years. For the first time in our nation’s history, Congress has passed legislation preserving and protecting the right to marry the person you love. Love is a human right, and today, we have made it clear that the United States will protect that right. “Although the Supreme Court ruled same-sex marriage legal in 2015, the need for this legislation could not be more urgent. In the years since that decision, the Court has become an increasingly extreme conservative body. Since their decision to erase 50 years of progress and overturn Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court and Republican elected officials have expressed openness to reversing the Court’s ruling on same-sex marriage. The Respect for Marriage Act preemptively protects same-sex and interracial marriage, shielding them from right-wing threats. “I was thrilled to vote for this bill in July and just as thrilled to vote for it again today. I look forward to seeing President Biden sign this historic civil rights legislation into law.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-and-bipartisan-ec-leaders-voice-concern-over-ticketmasters-handling,Pallone and Bipartisan E&C Leaders Voice Concern Over Ticketmaster's Handling of Ticket Sales for Taylor Swift's Upcoming Tour,2022-12-06,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Bipartisan Energy and Commerce Committee leaders wrote to the CEO of Ticketmaster's parent company Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. today raising concerns about potentially unfair or deceptive practices in the live ticketing industry and the chaotic ticket pre-sale for Taylor Swift's upcoming concert tour. The Committee leaders requested a staff briefing from the company on the key areas of concern. The letter was signed by Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Ranking Member Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee Chair Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Ranking Member Morgan Griffith (R-VA), and Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee Chair Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) and Ranking Member Gus Bilirakis (R-FL). ""The Energy and Commerce Committee has previously raised concerns about business practices in the live ticketing industry,"" the Committee leaders wrote. ""The recent pre-sale ticketing process for Taylor Swift's upcoming Eras tour—in which millions of fans endured delays, lockouts, and competition with aggressive scammers, scalpers, and bots—raises concerns over the potential unfair and deceptive practices that face consumers and eventgoers."" In 2019, the Energy and Commerce Committee launched a bipartisan investigation into allegations of unfair and deceptive practices in the live event ticketing industry. In February 2020, the Committee held a hearing with industry leaders including then Ticketmaster North America President Amy Howe, where she testified, ""[Ticketmaster] is thoroughly committed to business practices that promote transparency, deter deceptive practices, and provide customers with the ability to enjoy a concert, show, or game."" The Committee leaders noted that the circumstances surrounding ticket sales for Swift's upcoming tour as well as other recent major tour ticket sales cast serious doubt on those commitments. ""To better understand the obstacles consumers have recently faced and to hear an update on actions the company has taken to maximize the experiences of average consumers, we request a Committee staff briefing with your company,"" the bipartisan Committee leaders continued. ""This should include a discussion on additional fees, insider reserves, dynamic pricing, restrictions on transferability, limited ticket availability, speculative ticketing, verified fan program requirements, and scalping by bots and other scammers.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-south-amboy-will-receive-28-million-support-coastal,Pallone Announces South Amboy Will Receive $2.8 Million to Support Coastal Resilience,2022-12-06,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced that South Amboy will receive $2,869,668 to bolster coastal resilience and protect wildlife habitats. The funding is distributed through the 2022 National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF), which is administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF). This year's awards included funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The City of South Amboy will use the funding to restore 20 acres of former industrial land along 1.5 miles of coastline through marsh and living shoreline construction to enhance nesting habitat for osprey, little blue herons, and snowy egrets. The project will revitalize the coastal ecosystem to improve resilience to flood hazards and provide the community with safe access to the waterfront. ""I'm thrilled that South Amboy is receiving federal funding to restore its coastal ecosystem and improve flood protection. Living shorelines projects are proven natural infrastructure solutions that will protect our coastal communities from the effects of climate change, including more flooding from sea level rise and stronger hurricanes. They also improve and protect wildlife habitats,"" Pallone said. ""Since Superstorm Sandy, New Jersey has invested hundreds of millions of dollars to make our state more resilient against the effects of climate change, and this funding is another step in the right direction to build on this progress."" ""It gives me great satisfaction to know that our federal partners understand and endorse our efforts to restore our waterfront. The Raritan Bay has historically been a nexus of commerce, recreation, and beauty for many generations,"" Mayor Fred Henry said. ""Our efforts to restore a living shoreline in South Amboy would have only been a dream without the steadfast support of Congressman Pallone. We are grateful for his unstoppable support and tireless advocacy for us in Washington, DC.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-calls-on-justice-thomas-to-recuse-himself-from-moore-v-harper,Rep. Watson Coleman Calls on Justice Thomas to Recuse Himself from Moore v. Harper,2022-12-06,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 6, 2022) — With the Supreme Court set to hear oral arguments in Moore v. Harper, a case that threatens the future of free and fair elections, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) called on Justice Clarence Thomas to recuse himself from the case. By invoking the discredited “independent state legislature doctrine,” the petitioners in Moore v. Harper will argue that the Supreme Court must uphold North Carolina’s unconstitutionally gerrymandered congressional map. If the Court sides with the plaintiffs, state legislatures, not judges, governors, or election officials, will have the power to control how elections are run. Justice Clarence Thomas’ wife, Virginia “Ginni” Thomas played a key role in efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Following that election, Ginni Thomas corresponded with lawyer John Eastman, who led efforts to coerce then-Vice President Mike Pence to overturn the election results and is an advocate for independent state legislature theory. Along with Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Dick Durbin, other Members of Congress, and judicial ethics experts, Congresswoman Watson Coleman has expressed concerns that Justice Thomas’ connection to Ginni Thomas presents a conflict of interest in cases related to election integrity. Ginni Thomas’ influence on her husband’s work is well-documented. Regarding Justice Thomas’ conflict of interest, Congresswoman Watson Coleman issued the following statement: “Deciding a case with such dire implications for voter access to free elections while married to a woman who attempted to overturn a presidential election is a flagrant violation of judicial ethics. The petitioners in Moore v. Harper plan to use the same bogus legal reasoning that Ginni Thomas used in her own efforts to subvert the will of the people. “That the Supreme Court has even chosen to hear arguments today is further proof that the once-venerated institution has become captured by far-right interests. Even traditionally conservative legal experts, such as former Bush-appointed federal judge J. Michael Luttig, agree that the so-called ‘independent state legislature theory’ is completely devoid of legal merit. This case is merely a power grab by those who wish to silence the voice of the people in favor of granting hyper-partisan state legislatures free reign over election administration. “Over the last year, the Supreme Court has demonstrated in case after case that it has become an overtly political institution. It is no surprise that public trust in the Court has hit an all-time low. To prevent faith in our nation’s highest legal body from slipping even further, Justice Thomas must recuse himself from this case. “What I ask of Justice Thomas is no extreme demand. Rather, I simply ask that he fulfill his ethical and moral obligation as a public servant. The Court’s legitimacy — not to mention American democracy itself — depends on it.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-honors-fallen-officer-brian-sicknick-uscp-and-dc-metro-police-who-defended-capitol-on-january-6th,"Rep. Watson Coleman Honors Fallen Officer Brian Sicknick, USCP and DC Metro Police Who Defended Capitol on January 6th",2022-12-06,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 6, 2022) — Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) attended the Congressional Gold Medal award ceremony for the law enforcement officers who protected the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. Among the officers receiving the award was Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, who died after suffering two strokes the day after the insurrection. A native of New Jersey’s 12th District, Sicknick was born in New Brunswick and attended East Brunswick Technical High School. He served his state and country in the New Jersey Air National Guard before joining the Capitol Police. Sicknick leaves behind his parents, his two brothers, and his longtime girlfriend. Following the ceremony, Congresswoman Watson Coleman issued the following statement: “As domestic terrorists stormed the Capitol on January 6, my colleagues and I feared we would not return to work on January 7. For me and many others, the trauma of that day still weighs heavily upon our minds, bodies, and souls. However, I find solace in the fact that ultimately, democracy endured. “January 6, 2021 marked the single greatest attack on American democracy since the Civil War. And just as it did after Lee surrendered at Appomattox, freedom prevailed over oppression. Without the valor and sacrifice of our Capitol Police and other law enforcement officers, we may have seen a very different outcome. “In no uncertain terms, the valiant officers who protected the Capitol that day are heroes. I thank each and every officer who risked everything in service of our nation. My heart goes out to the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice, including New Jersey native Brian Sicknick. After sustaining injuries in the line of duty, Officer Sicknick sadly passed away the day after the assault on the Capitol. “The Congressional Gold Medal is the United States’ highest civilian honor. In our nation’s 250-year history, only 173 have been awarded. In receiving this award, Officer Sicknick and his law enforcement colleagues join the ranks of such giants as Rosa Parks, Raoul Wallenberg, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. These brave men and women are defenders of democracy in the most literal sense of the phrase. I am eternally grateful for their service and will be forever in their debt.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=40C707DA-546B-4D50-8340-36E0F33489E8,"Rep. Norcross Statement on the Passing of Gaytana “Gaye” Pino, Longtime South Jersey Community Leader and Senior Citizen Advocate",2022-12-02,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement upon hearing the news that Gaytana “Gaye” Pino, a friend and longtime advocate for South Jersey seniors. “I am heartbroken by the passing of Gaye Pino. Gaye was a dear friend and a longtime advocate for South Jersey’s seniors. Her compassion extended to the broader community as she spent much of her life giving back to others. She developed programs, secured grants, and recruited countless volunteers over the years to keep seniors housed, healthy, and happy. She was also an accomplished business leader, having served as chair of the advisory board of Philadelphia University Business School and as the founder of the Cherry Hill Business Council. Gaye’s absence leaves a hole in our community that is impossible to fill. I send my sincere condolences to her family, friends, and all who were touched by her immeasurable contributions to our community.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-congratulates-new-house-democratic-leadership,Rep. Watson Coleman Congratulates New House Democratic Leadership,2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 1, 2022) — Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman congratulated Reps. Hakeem Jeffries, Katherine Clark, and Pete Aguilar on winning the House Democratic Caucus’ leadership elections. In the 118th Congress, Jeffries will serve as Democratic Leader, Clark as Democratic Whip, and Aguilar as Democratic Caucus Chair. Jeffries will be the first Black person to lead a major political party in either house of Congress. “Starting next year, the leadership of the House Democratic Caucus will look more like America. From school boards to executive boards, women and people of color belong in every room where decisions are made, and Congressional leadership is no exception,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “By electing a historically diverse leadership team, House Democrats are reaffirming their commitment to serving our nation’s most vulnerable communities.” The elections of Jeffries, 52, Clark, 59, and Aguilar, 43, reflect House Democrats’ focus on the future of their Caucus. “I commend Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader Hoyer, and Majority Whip Clyburn for passing the torch to a new generation of leadership,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “Congratulations to Congressman Jeffries, Congresswoman Clark, and Congressman Aguilar on their historic victories. I look forward to serving under their bold new leadership as House Democrats continue fighting for the people.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-votes-to-aid-reentry-prevent-recidivism,"Rep. Watson Coleman Votes to Aid Reentry, Prevent Recidivism",2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"In the United States, more than 600,000 individuals are released from prison annually. These individuals lack the necessary resources to re-enter society, and as a result, many of them are encouraged to reoffend. As a result, the U.S. has one of the highest recidivism rates in the world. “Upon release from prison, formerly incarcerated Americans are asked to win a series of uphill battles in order to reintegrate into their communities,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “For these individuals, finding housing, employment, and education can be nearly insurmountable challenges. By establishing centers that assist formerly incarcerated individuals with these processes, the One Stop Shop Community Reentry Program Act will help get these Americans back on their feet and bring us closer to breaking the cycle of recidivism. It’s a necessary step toward building a more humane, more effective, more equitable criminal justice system, and I was proud to vote for it.” Congresswoman Watson Coleman recently introduced the New Pathways Act, which would also prevent recidivism and address the United States’ mass incarceration problem. The Congresswoman’s bill would reduce barriers to reentry by directing the Bureau of Prisons to help formerly incarcerated Americans obtain government-issued identification.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-votes-to-protect-pregnant-incarcerated-americans,Rep. Watson Coleman Votes to Protect Pregnant Incarcerated Americans,2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 1, 2022) — Today, Congresswoman Watson Coleman voted to pass H.R. 6878, the Pregnant Women in Custody Act, which directs the Bureau of Prisons to provide more substantial pregnancy and childbirth services for pregnant incarcerated Americans. The Congresswoman is a cosponsor of this bipartisan legislation. Each year, an estimated 58,000 pregnant Americans are incarcerated. While incarcerated, they lack the necessary health care and nutrition to ensure healthy childbirth. The Pregnant Women in Custody Act addresses this issue by ensuring that federal prisons offer appropriate pregnancy and childbirth services, provide the appropriate training for correctional officers, and end restrictive housing practices for pregnant and postpartum Americans in custody. “Pregnancy and childbirth are demanding, and they can be almost impossibly demanding for incarcerated Americans. Our criminal justice system lacks the resources and expertise to ensure that pregnant incarcerated individuals have the care they need,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “The bipartisan Pregnant Women in Custody Act will assist incarcerated mothers through all stages of their pregnancy. That means not only ensuring adequate childbirth services, but also investing in appropriate nutrition, maternity care, and postpartum services. While much work remains to be done toward building a more humane justice system, I was proud to vote for legislation that would improve the health and wellness of incarcerated mothers and their children.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=10BFEEDE-644C-4D4B-A98E-D9F39C96B7BD,Rep. Norcross's Statement on Rail Agreement Vote,2022-11-30,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today released the following statement after voting for granting America’s rail workers paid sick leave: “Today, I voted to keep a critical piece of American infrastructure running: our railways. I voted to ensure that the workers who operate that strategic asset are treated fairly, earn a decent wage, and get paid sick leave. These hardworking men and women kept food on the table during the pandemic and kept goods on the shelves of small businesses. Our nation needs these workers to be healthy and strong so we can continue to grow our economy and deliver for the American people.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=6176D4FA-2A14-40C4-81CB-EE6FEB3C7D48,Rep. Norcross Statement on Retirement of IBEW International President Lonnie R. Stephenson,2022-11-30,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), the only IBEW electrician in Congress, released the following statement regarding the retirement of IBEW International President Lonnie R. Stephenson: “Lonnie R. Stephenson is a worker’s labor leader. He began his career as an IBEW apprentice, and that experience shaped his service on behalf of working people over the next five decades. Lonnie’s tenure as international president has been marked by a fierce commitment to fair working conditions. IBEW is larger, stronger, and more diverse than ever before, thanks to Lonnie’s commitment to the working men and women who are the backbone of the American economy. On the appointment of International Secretary-Treasurer Kenneth W. Cooper to fill the remainder of Stephenson’s term and Sixth District International Vice President Paul Noble to fill the remainder of Cooper’s term, Congressman Norcross had this to say: “Like Lonnie and me, Kenneth Cooper and Paul Noble began as apprentices and have worked their way up, proving their dedication to America’s workers and IBEW’s members through tenacity and hard work. I am confident that as the next international president and international secretary-treasurer, Kenneth and Paul will carry on Lonnie’s legacy and further advance workers’ rights.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=666641FF-575A-42E0-B8AE-E1F4A4865259,"Rep. Norcross, Labor Caucus Escalate Demand for Increased NLRB Funding in Year-End Package",2022-11-29,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) and his fellow Congressional Labor Caucus co-chairs – Representatives Debbie Dingell (MI-12), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Linda Sánchez (CA-38), and Tom Suozzi (NY-03) – today urged House and Senate leaders to adequately fund the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in the end-of-the-year appropriations package. In a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (CA-12) and Senate Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), the co-chairs called attention to the dire need to shore up the independent federal agency that protects private sector workers’ rights. “… [W]e write to … express our grave concern over the ongoing funding crisis at the National Labor Relations Board,” the letter reads. “Simply put, the status quo of NLRB funding is untenable. Continuing to underfund the NLRB not only puts workers’ rights at risk but also subjects employers to costly uncertainty. […] Our economy, our Nation’s employers, and our Nation’s workers need the NLRB to receive funding that allows it to fully implement its mission.” The letter escalates a request originally made in an April 2022 letter, led by Congressman Norcross and signed by 148 of his colleagues, to House Appropriations Committee Chair Rosa DeLauro and Ranking Member Tom Role requesting the NLRB receive additional funding. Today’s letter identifies it as a “top priority” for the Congressional Labor Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=6D998300-344E-4229-BCD4-46026A319697,"Norcross, Booker Lead Colleagues in Urging FHWA to Explain Decision to Block NJDOT’s Roadway Safety Messages",2022-11-22,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"CAMDEN, NJ – Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) and Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), along with U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and U.S. Representatives Bill Pascrell (D-N.J.-09), Donald Payne Jr. (D-N.J.-10), Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.-02), Andy Kim (D-N.J.-03), Tom Malinowski (D-N.J.-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.-12), Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.-11), Frank Pallone (D-N.J.-06), and Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.-05), expressed concerns to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) over its decision to block the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s (NJDOT) creative, attention-grabbing roadway safety messages. “Last month, NJDOT began a campaign utilizing humor and New Jersey culture to raise awareness around safety. These quintessential Garden State messages have had a significant positive reception around the state, and have helped to alert in-state and out-of-state motorists to take reasonable precautions,” wrote Congressman Norcross and colleagues in a letter to FHWA Acting Administrator Stephanie Pollack. “Given the positive reception around these recent safety efforts in New Jersey, I am very concerned to have learned of FHWA’s decision to block the use of these signs earlier this week without providing NJDOT with a comprehensive, data-driven justification for the decision. I understand that FHWA requires roadway signs to command the attention of the motorist and convey a simple clear meaning. The recent campaign in New Jersey to deliver creative, short, humorous, and attention-grabbing messages seems to be an absolutely ideal way to raise awareness around safety and potentially save lives.” In the letter, the members requested the FHWA:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-murphy-call-biden-administration-swiftly-deliver-funding-promote,"Pallone, Murphy Call on Biden Administration to Swiftly Deliver Funding to Promote Coastal Resilience",2022-11-22,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) today urged the Biden Administration to quickly implement investments in living shoreline projects from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. In a letter to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Administrator Richard W. Spinrad, Pallone and Murphy called on the agency to use the funding allocated in the laws to directly support projects that will protect and restore coastal and marine habitats. The lawmakers also encouraged NOAA to study living shorelines' ability to reduce disaster recovery costs from flooding and remove potential roadblocks to project permitting. Living shoreline infrastructure projects use natural materials and systems, including dunes, wetlands, and oyster reefs to support the natural flood resilience of healthy shoreline ecosystems. Natural infrastructure is cost-effective and adaptable to changing environmental conditions. It also enhances ecosystem functions which can improve water quality and wildlife habitat protection. Certain types of living shorelines can support carbon mitigation. They are also affordable and create jobs. NOAA received $3 billion through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and $2.8 billion through the Inflation Reduction Act to build living shoreline projects and conduct research on best practices in using these projects to protect coastal communities. ""We are proud of this immense investment to build community and ecosystem resilience to climate change while bolstering our economy. We urge you to dedicate the necessary resources that will ensure the swift implementation of these critical investments in our coastal communities,"" the lawmakers wrote. ""Congress has provided NOAA with a historic opportunity to protect American coastal communities and our precious ecosystems from climate change threats. We urge you to prioritize nature-based coastal resilience efforts, like living shoreline infrastructure and research, as you create plans for this significant funding."" The investments in living shoreline projects from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation are modeled on a bill that Pallone and Murphy introduced in 2021. The Living Shorelines Act would have created two federal grant programs through NOAA to assist states and localities in constructing living shorelines and provide federal research grants to eligible entities to study living shoreline development and effectiveness. The new investments in NOAA from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act will achieve these goals. In 2019, Pallone highlighted a living shoreline project that is already strengthening the coastline in New Jersey.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-majority-leader-steny-hoyer-announcement,Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Majority Leader Steny Hoyer Announcement,2022-11-18,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 18, 2022) — Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued the following statement on House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer’s decision to step down from House Democratic leadership while continuing to serve in Congress: “Majority Leader Hoyer’s steadfast commitment to Democratic ideals and values is truly admirable. Since 2007, Leader Hoyer has played an instrumental role in guiding the House Democratic Caucus, both as Majority Leader and Minority Whip. “Hoyer’s leadership helped Democrats secure passage of several historic pieces of legislation, including the Affordable Care Act, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the American Rescue Plan, and the Inflation Reduction Act. ""While I am grateful that Hoyer will continue to serve his district, including through work on the Appropriations Committee, his unwavering guidance will be missed. I commend his decision to pass the torch to the next generation of House Democratic leaders.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-majority-whip-jim-clyburn-announcement,Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Majority Whip Jim Clyburn Announcement,2022-11-18,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 18, 2022) — Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued the following statement on House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn’s decision to step down from his current position as House Majority Whip while continuing to serve in Democratic leadership: “Like Speaker Pelosi, Majority Whip Clyburn has led a barrier-breaking, truly inspirational career in public service. Upon his first election to Congress, Clyburn became the first Black person to represent South Carolina since Reconstruction. “As Majority Whip, Clyburn fostered unity in our Caucus, helping House Democrats overcome narrow majorities to pass crucial components of our legislative agenda. Many of our recent legislative victories, including the historic Inflation Reduction Act, wouldn’t have been possible without him. “By taking a step back from his current leadership role, Clyburn will play a key part in building the next generation of House Democratic leaders. I commend his decision to pass the torch and look forward to serving alongside him in the next Congress.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=AA2782CA-D2EC-43E5-8931-3FA519D6E8E8,Rep. Norcross Keeps Pressure on Amazon Over Dangerous Warehouses at Workplace Safety Hearing,2022-11-17,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) kept the pressure on Amazon at the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections hearing on the unsafe and untenable conditions warehouse workers face. Three Amazon warehouse workers died in New Jersey between July and August 2022. “Amazon says it is ‘Earth’s Safest Place to Work,’ but in reality, it has one of the highest serious injury rates in the country,” said Congressman Norcross. “Amazon can improve workplace safety. It has modern facilities with the latest technology. All warehouse workers should go home the same way they went to work: safe and unharmed.” “We cannot have a serious conversation about worker safety in the warehouse industry without focusing on the enormous toll of serious injury and disability that threatens hundreds of thousands of Amazon warehouse workers every single day,” said Eric Frumin, the health and safety director for the Strategic Organizing Center. “Perhaps not everyone can understand what it’s like for families like these to suffer a loss due to health and safety risks at their job being ignored. Unfortunately, I can… I received a call that my brother Edilberto was at the hospital with a very, very dangerous injury in his brain. He died four days later,” said Janeth Caicedo, whose brother Edilberto was killed in a warehouse accident while working for an unlicensed temp agency in New Jersey. “A core issue of warehousing is pace of work. Workers are pushed to move as quickly as possible in these workplaces, in order to keep up with the rapid pace of delivery necessary to keep the supply chain thin and running smoothly… When you order a product to arrive in 24 or 48 hours, there is no magic robot or process that makes that happen. The product moves fast because people run,” said Sheheryar Kaoosji, the executive director of the Warehouse Workers Resource Center. “Serious injuries increase when there aren’t proper workplace protections. Employers must implement common-sense safety standards. Today’s hearing is an important opportunity to demand that companies like Amazon take responsibility for the safety of their employees. The Teamsters thank Chairman Scott and Chairwoman Adams, as well as Congressman Norcross, for their efforts to advocate for the needs of workers on the job,” said Sean M. O’Brien, the general president of the Teamsters. “Regulations protecting workers in the warehousing industry have lagged far behind its rapid growth. The rise of e-commerce has forever changed the retail sector. Just because the work has changed doesn’t mean workers shouldn’t be protected. We will continue to fight to ensure workers and their health and safety are protected, and we thank Congressman Donald Norcross for convening this critical panel today,"" said Stuart Appelbaum, the president of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU). Congressman Norcross has been an outspoken critic of dangerous workplaces, including Amazon warehouses. As an electrician by trade who spent years working in the construction industry, he has seen the human cost of unsafe workplaces firsthand. Timeline of Congressman Norcross’s Leadership on Amazon Warehouse Safety:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-speaker-nancy-pelosi-announcement,Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Speaker Nancy Pelosi Announcement,2022-11-17,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued the following statement on Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s decision to pass the torch to a new generation of House Democratic leadership: “Speaker Pelosi’s career in public service has been one of firsts, from serving as the first female Speaker of the House to becoming the first woman to reclaim the gavel after serving as leader of the Democratic minority. She spearheaded the passage of the first significant regulation of our financial system since the Great Depression, the first major investment in affordable health care since the 1960s, and most recently, the single largest climate investment in our nation’s history. “This Congress, Democratic leadership faced a series of challenges the likes of which our nation has never seen. In just two years, Speaker Pelosi led our Caucus to pass historic investments in working families, including the American Rescue Plan, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act. She did this with only a narrow majority, all while facing down a global pandemic, the subsequent economic hardships, and a wave of anti-democratic sentiment that culminated in a violent insurrection at the Capitol. “For two decades, Speaker Pelosi has overcome obstacles to ensure that House Democrats deliver for the people. While her grace, presence, and guidance will be missed, I am grateful that she will continue serving the people of California’s 12th District and serve as a mentor for the next generation of House Democratic leadership.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/reps-watson-coleman-mfume-introduce-new-pathways-act-to-aide-reentry-and-reduce-recidivism,"Reps Watson Coleman, Mfume Introduce New Pathways Act to Aid Reentry and Reduce Recidivism",2022-11-17,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) and Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07) introduced the New Pathways Act. This legislation would help formerly incarcerated Americans re-enter society by requiring the Bureau of Prisons to help these individuals obtain government-issued identification. More than 600,000 Americans are released from prison each year and upon release face significant barriers to reentry. Among these barriers is the need for a government ID, which is a requirement for renting an apartment, setting up a bank account, registering to vote, and more. “Our criminal justice system as it exists now seemingly encourages recidivism. When incarcerated people are released, they are left on their own to create new lives for themselves while simultaneously facing obstacles that are almost insurmountable. Without the resources necessary to overcome these obstacles, many newly released Americans remain stuck in a cycle of recidivism,” said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. “The federal government must do more to support recently released individuals, and assisting them in the process of obtaining identification is a crucial first step. By passing the New Pathways Act, we can reduce the number of repeat offenders and bring us one step closer to ending mass incarceration. I’m proud to have introduced this legislation and urge my colleagues in Congress to support it.” “If we are serious about addressing inequality in the United States, then we must take a hard look at the criminal justice system and offer comprehensive solutions. Formerly incarcerated individuals unmistakably face barriers to successfully re-entering our communities after serving their time,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. “The New Pathways Act is a necessary step towards reentry reform and will help formerly incarcerated individuals obtain the resources they need to become productive community members, as is the intended outcome of any fair and equitable criminal justice system.” The New Pathways Act mandates that the BOP take steps to obtain for formerly incarcerated citizens a Social Security card and a proof-of-citizenship document, such as a passport. For non-citizens, the bill requires the BOP to help the individual obtain either proof of lawful residence or an employment authorization document. The New Pathways Act is sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ). It has been endorsed by Families Against Mandatory Minimums, the Center or Law and Social Policy, Justice Action Network, JustLeadershipUSA, Campaign for Youth Justice, The Sentencing project, the Interfaith Action for Human Rights, National Crittenden, and the Coalition for Juvenile Justice.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watson-coleman-statement-on-passing-of-former-new-jersey-first-lady-lucinda-florio,Watson Coleman Statement on Passing of Former New Jersey First Lady Lucinda Florio,2022-11-17,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 17, 2022) — Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued the following statement on the passing of Lucinda Florio, wife of the late former Congressman and New Jersey Governor Jim Florio: “I am saddened to hear that Lucinda Florio has passed away. “As New Jersey’s First Lady, Lucinda built upon her experience as a public school teacher to advocate for children’s literacy. Her vision of a state where every child has access to quality education is one I admire to this day. “New Jersey has lost a selfless advocate and leader. My prayers are with the Florio family during this difficult time.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watson-coleman-one-year-later-democrats-infrastructure-law-is-delivering-for-new-jerseyans,"Watson Coleman: One Year Later, Democrats’ Infrastructure Law is Delivering for New Jerseyans",2022-11-15,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Today, marking the first anniversary of Democrats’ landmark Infrastructure Law, Rep. Watson Coleman highlighted the historic federal investments that are already creating good-paying jobs in New Jersey communities. “One year ago today, President Biden and the Democratic Congress delivered a once-in-a-generation investment to create millions of good-paying jobs repairing, rebuilding and revitalizing our communities,” said Rep. Watson Coleman. “Democrats’ Infrastructure Law is already putting shovels in the ground and New Jerseyans to work in good-paying jobs — fixing roads, upgrading public transit, slashing commute times, cleaning up pollution and more. As New Jerseyans mark the extraordinary progress of the last year, I remain committed to working with the Biden Administration to ensure these investments continue to reach our communities as quickly as possible.” Decades of underinvestment have left our communities in urgent need of repair and modernization. The Infrastructure Law is already making progress on this backlog, delivering federal funds for a range of vital projects in New Jersey, including: $3.2 billion to roads, bridges, roadway safety and other major projects. $100 million to ensure high-speed internet coverage across the state. $168 million to provide clean and safe water and improve water infrastructure. $833 million to improve public transportation in 2022 alone with another $3.6 billion over the next 5 years. $355.8 million has already been allocated for infrastructure resilience against climate change and extreme weather events. $5.5 million to date has been allocated for cleaning up Superfund and brownfield sites. A full summary of the Infrastructure Law’s investments in New Jersey is available here. “Democrats’ Infrastructure Law represents a massive leap forward in our fight to put People Over Politics,” continued Rep. Watson Coleman. “We remain laser-focused on our fight to build on that progress — lowering costs, creating better-paying jobs and building safer communities and working for the people.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-applauds-biden-administration-s-methane-announcement,Pallone Applauds Biden Administration’s Methane Announcement,2022-11-11,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt – Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement today after the Biden Administration announced a new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) supplemental proposal to curb methane emissions from oil and gas sources, as well as an update to the U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan: ""Methane is one of the most dangerous and potent greenhouse gases, responsible for one-third of the warming we contend with today. I applaud the Biden Administration for tackling that challenge head on and proposing stronger and more comprehensive standards to slash methane pollution from the oil and gas sector. By capturing more sources of methane, expanding new monitoring techniques and technologies, and addressing longstanding challenges like abandoned and unplugged wells, the Biden EPA is both safeguarding Americans' right to clean air and reclaiming our mantle as a global climate leader. ""I'm also thrilled that the Updated U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan now includes key resources and strategies made possible by the historic climate investments Congress made in the Inflation Reduction Act. From the Methane Emissions Reduction Program to the Advanced Industrial Facilities Deployment Program, I am proud that this legislation added so many critical new tools to our collective toolbox. I'm even prouder that, taken together with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, these unprecedented climate achievements have put us on track to meet our aggressive climate goals. ""Meeting this moment demands a comprehensive, government-wide approach to slashing methane pollution and I'm happy to stand with the President as we achieve exactly that. I look forward to working with the Biden Administration, my colleagues, and stakeholders to ensure EPA finalizes a strong rule and that the United States leads the way to a clean, sustainable future.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=28B06A3C-7B3E-4CCA-85E5-318DEBE1E97E,Rep. Norcross Helps Camden County Law Enforcement Secure $200K to Support Community Policing Initiatives,2022-11-09,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced that Camden County will receive $201,480 in federal funding from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to fund local community policing initiatives in South Jersey. Camden County’s community policing model has contributed to a dramatic decrease in crime over the past decade. The grant will provide local law enforcement with resources to continue protecting families and building trust in the communities they serve. “Camden City has become a leader in community policing and seen crime rates plummet as a result,” said Congressman Norcross. “This federal allows Camden County law enforcement to maintain and expand innovative evidence-based strategies to make South Jersey a safer place for families. I’ll continue working in Congress to ensure our first responders have the resources they need to protect and serve.” “Since we began focusing on community policing back in 2014, we’ve seen a remarkable transformation here in Camden City as far as crime and quality of life goes,” said Camden County Police Chief Gabriel Rodriguez. “It’s crucial for us to have the necessary tools to continue this progress and I commend Congressman Norcross for his tireless efforts in Washington to ultimately benefit our residents and our community.” The DOJ’s Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program allows for local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime based on their own state and local needs. The grant helps purchase of vital resources, including technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and information systems for criminal justice or civil proceedings.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-joins-other-congressional-leaders-attending-un-climate-conference-cop27,Pallone Joins Other Congressional Leaders in Attending U.N. Climate Conference COP27 in Egypt,2022-11-09,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement today as he joins a Congressional Delegation trip to Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, for the 27th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, known as COP27: ""We are attending COP27 to demonstrate the United States' continued commitment to standing with our global partners in the fight against climate change and accelerate the transition to a stronger, more equitable and sustainable future. Enactment of the historic Inflation Reduction Act is a testament to that commitment. This law made the single-largest investment in climate action in American history, driving cuts in methane pollution, establishing a national Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, and supporting the deployment of clean energy technologies across every sector of the economy. We are proud that this law, in conjunction with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and domestic climate programs, has put us on track to meet the climate targets set forth in the Paris Agreement. ""These achievements are unprecedented, yet we know more action will be needed to achieve a clean future for us all. Solving this global problem requires global cooperation, and we will not falter in our commitments or in our determination to tackle the climate crisis head-on.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-new-jersey-will-receive-over-183-million-lower-home-energy,Pallone Announces New Jersey Will Receive Over $183 Million To Lower Home Energy Costs and Improve Energy Efficiency,2022-11-03,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today applauded the $183,147,420New Jersey will receive to help families improve home energy efficiency. The funding comes from provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act that Pallone included as Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee. The funding can be used for installation of energy efficient equipment, including electric appliances and heat pumps that will lower energy costs for American families. According to the Department of Energy, more information about how consumers can apply for rebates is expected to be available in the spring, and rebates will be available to the public later in the year. ""This announcement is a win-win for consumers as we work to lower costs for families and transition to clean energy. This funding will help families across New Jersey upgrade appliances in their homes that will not only save them money on their energy bills, but also reduce our dependence on fossil fuels,"" Pallone said. ""I'm glad to see federal dollars help families in New Jersey lower costs.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-new-jersey-will-receive-over-153-million-help-families-lower-energy,Pallone: New Jersey Will Receive Over $153 Million To Help Families Lower Energy Bills,2022-11-02,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today applauded the additional $153,308,019 New Jersey will receive for home energy assistance. The state has received a total of $455,659,467 for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) that helps families struggling with the costs of home energy bills. The funding comes from a government spending bill and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that Pallone included as Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee. ""As cold weather approaches, this funding will help families across New Jersey keep up with their energy bills. This comes as much-needed relief for the millions of families struggling to make ends meet,"" Pallone said. ""I'm glad to see that we're still delivering federal dollars to New Jersey as we continue to lower costs for hardworking families."" LIHEAP helps eligible households pay home heating and cooling bills, prevent energy shutoffs, restore services, make minor energy-related home repairs, and weatherize homes to make them more energy efficient.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-vows-continue-fighting-families-devastated-superstorm-sandy-10th,Pallone Vows to Continue Fighting for Families Devastated by Superstorm Sandy on 10th Anniversary of Storm,2022-10-28,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Long Branch, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today vowed to keep fighting for families devastated by Superstorm Sandy ten years ago. Pallone joined Governor Murphy for a tour of the Port Monmouth flood control project today in Monmouth County. Pallone secured $110 million in a federal spending bill for the project after Superstorm Sandy. He has also introduced legislation to reform the National Flood Insurance Program, delivered federal funding to strengthen infrastructure along the Jersey Shore, and secured forgiveness of clawbacks in a federal House spending bill. ""Ten years ago, Superstorm Sandy devastated our state. Since then, I've fought for federal funding to make sure our coastal communities are better protected from the next major storm and flooding events. I also fought for families who were decimated by the storm by securing in a House spending bill forgiveness of millions of dollars they owe through no fault of their own,"" Pallone said. ""We've come a long way, but there's still work to do. In Congress, I'm fighting for a better flood insurance program that prevents insurance companies and contractors from taking advantage of homeowners. I'll continue to fight for New Jerseyans and make sure our state is protected from major weather events."" Below is a summary of Pallone's advocacy for victims of Superstorm Sandy and the federal infrastructure funding he secured: Clawback Forgiveness Pallone worked with the New Jersey Congressional delegation to secure a provision to waive federal recoupment efforts for Superstorm Sandy victims in a federal spending bill. It passed the House in July 2022. The provision grants the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development the authority to waive the requirement for New Jersey homeowners to pay back federal disaster relief aid. Recoupment efforts known as ""clawbacks"" have blindsided homeowners because many New Jersey residents applied for loans and benefits offered by various federal programs at the recommendation of the government. The spending bill would indefinitely delay the federal government's recoupments efforts - affecting 1,813 households in New Jersey that currently owe $73 million. Among those homeowners, 882 households would be eligible for full forgiveness - worth over $28 million - subject to Secretary approval. Secured Community Disaster Loans Forgiveness Pallone also worked with New Jersey Congressional delegation to secure forgiveness of outstanding balances of Community Disaster Loans (CDLs) made to municipalities in New Jersey to help them recover from Superstorm Sandy. They secured the loan forgiveness in a government operations bill that the House passed and President Biden signed in 2021. At that time, 18 New Jersey municipalities owed more than $25 million worth of Community Disaster Loans that were issued after the storm. Funding for Flood Control Projects Pallone secured $110 million in a federal spending bill for the Port Monmouth Flood Protection Project. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has already completed the construction of a 40-ft wide flood gate and pumping station across Pews Creek and a floodwall on Port Monmouth Road. The next phase of the project will include the construction of a floodwall and levee system along Route 36 to Creek Road to Broadway as well as the construction of an additional floodwall, levee system, and pumping station along Main Street. The project is expected to be completed by July 2024. Pallone also secured funding for a flood control project in Union Beach that will begin this fall. The funding was authorized in the Water Resources Development Act of 2007. Pallone fought for subsequent funding in the Disaster Relief Appropriations Act of 2013. In July, Pallone announced that the first contract was awarded for $50 million. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will use the funding for sand replenishment and to construct dunes, groins, and pedestrian and automobile crosswalks. The next phase of the project will include interior flood control structures, including a floodgate. Legislation to Reform the National Flood Insurance Program",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/statement-on-cpc-letter-regarding-ukraine,Statement on CPC Letter Regarding Ukraine,2022-10-25,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Watson Coleman released the following statement after a Congressional Progressive Caucus letter regarding diplomatic efforts in Ukraine was sent and then retracted by the CPC: “I unequivocally affirm my support for Ukraine’s right to sovereignty and to defend itself against Putin’s unlawful, unjust invasion. Rights of security and resistance of oppression are fundamental human rights. I have consistently voted to support aid to Ukraine and the letter I originally signed does not indicate a change in that support; in fact, it reaffirms it. “While the timing of the release of the letter was unfortunate and outside my control, in no way should the letter be conflated with recent statements by Congressional Republicans threatening to end aid to Ukraine. I want to be clear that I support the President when he says, “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.” That means no peace agreement on terms without Ukraine’s support. I’ve consistently held the position – as this letter reiterated – that, unlike Congressional Republicans, we should continue to provide economic and military aid for Ukraine while also advocating diplomacy when it appears a diplomatic solution is possible as all modern wars end in peace agreements. “The atrocities committed by President Putin against Ukrainian civilians are horrific should be met with condemnation and resistance. The War in Ukraine has cost the lives of nearly 100,000 Ukrainians including over 30,000 civilians. Eventual diplomatic solutions should be considered alongside military and economic support for Ukraine to bring an end to the bloodshed that puts the lives of countless more civilians in jeopardy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FC5DA3E3-D41D-4428-B5F3-B56E28A02334,"Rep. Norcross, NJ DOT Commissioner Announce Widening of Atlantic City Expressway",2022-10-19,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"SICKLERVILLE, NJ – Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) and New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti, and South Jersey Transportation Authority Chair Stephen Dougherty highlighted the positive transportation and economic impacts of the planned widening of the Atlantic City Expressway to three lanes from mile marker 31 westbound to the Route 42 terminus. The project, which will create an estimated 2,300 jobs in the region, reduce congestion, and help to improve safety along a stretch of Route 322, one of New Jersey’s deadliest highways. “This widening of the AC Expressway has been one of top infrastructure priorities for this region. We have large and growing populations here, and it makes perfect sense to have three lanes to service local residents and commuters. This project is going to bring a sigh of relief to drivers used to experiencing the peak of Jersey Shore Summer traffic,” said Congressman Norcross. “With three lanes instead of two, we’ll be able to keep traffic going even if one lane needs to close for maintenance or roadway incidents, and it will greatly improve the flow of traffic – meaning less congestion and a safer roadway. In addition, this project is going to create thousands of good-paying jobs in our region, which will have a powerful economic impact on our economy.” “This $180 million investment in New Jersey’s infrastructure will help reduce travel times, relieve congestion, increase safety, and improve coastal evacuation capacity on this highly traveled thoroughfare,” said NJDOT Commissioner and SJTA Chair Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti. “I’d like to thank Representative Norcross for his strong voice in Congress and Governor Murphy for his steadfast commitment to investing in New Jersey’s transportation infrastructure.” “The South Jersey Transportation Authority’s widening project will truly enhance the patron experience along the Expressway. Once the 26 miles of east and westbound lanes are completed, the roadway will finally be expanded to three lanes its entire length,” said Stephen F. Dougherty, South Jersey Transportation Authority executive director. “I want to thank the Congressman for his years of advocacy on this project and for his ongoing support of the SJTA.” Congressman Norcross has championed local infrastructure projects in South Jersey ranging from improving the conditions of roads and the safety of bridges to replacing lead waterpipes in schools and small businesses. He helped pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which is delivering $13.5 billion in federal infrastructure funding to New Jersey and is projected to create 2 million jobs per year over the next decade nationwide.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=ECBEEFE4-AAB1-4FDE-B01C-F48A432F22DA,Congressman Norcross Announces Over $3.2 Million to Strengthen South Jersey’s Health Care Workforce,2022-10-14,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced that the?U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will provide over $3.2 million in federal funding to help Rutgers School of Nursing–Camden and Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine (RowanSOM) train the next generation of health care workers and expand access to health care in South Jersey. Rutgers University will receive $245,872 to train and educate nurses, and RowanSOM will receive $3,000,000 to train community health workers and paraprofessionals. “I’m proud to see federal dollars go towards helping South Jersey students start their careers and deliver care to those who need it,” said Congressman Norcross. “These grants will go a long way in strengthening our workforce and expanding access to health care in our communities. I will continue fighting for legislation in Congress that equips local health care professionals with the training and resources they need to keep South Jerseyans healthy.” “This award will provide the School of Nursing–Camden with crucial support as we work to augment the current and future nursing workforce. With shortages in practicing nurses and nurse educators impacting health care systems nationwide, this funding will help to ensure that Rutgers–Camden can produce exceptional nurses prepared to educate the future health care workforce locally and nationally,” said Dr. Marie O’Toole, interim dean of Rutgers School of Nursing-Camden. “Although individuals with substance use disorders are at higher risk for one or more chronic health conditions and experience worse outcomes, many remain disconnected from care. At the same time, community health workers help connect patients living in the community to primary care and other services, but most remain separate from the substance use treatment field. This project will explore the creation of a new community health worker and certified peer recovery specialist training program. This?combined training will prepare a workforce that can provide services that address both chronic health conditions and substance use disorders simultaneously,” said Dr. Richard Jermyn, who will direct this program for the Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine. RowanSOM’s federal grant comes from HHS’s Community Health Worker and Paraprofessional Training program. This federal grant aims to increase the number of community health care workers and expand access to critical care in underserved communities. Similarly, Rutgers University’s $245,872 federal grant comes from the HHS’s Nurse?Education?Practice Quality and Retention:?Clinical Faculty?and?Preceptor Academies program, which supports public-private partnerships that develop nurse training curriculums across the country. Read more about these programs here and here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-new-grants-support-public-safety-and-hire-law-enforcement,Pallone Announces New Grants to Support Public Safety and Hire Law Enforcement Officers in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties,2022-10-14,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"New Brunswick, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced new federal funding to support public safety and strengthen law enforcement in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties. Perth Amboy will receive $1.25 million to hire 10 new police officers. New Brunswick will receive $250,000 to hire two police officers. The funding comes from the Department of Justice's Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program. Additionally, Sayreville will receive $175,000 to enhance community policing practices through trust and legitimacy building with the community. Rutgers University will receive $100,000 to recruit and retain officers. These awards are made through the COPS Office's Community Policing Development Program. The Middletown Board of Education will also receive $491,000 from the Department's Office's School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) to improve security at schools and on school campuses. The funding can be used to coordinate with local law enforcement, train local law enforcement officers to prevent school violence, and equipment to enhance security.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-hosts-fireside-chat-commerce-secretary-gina-raimondo-historic,Pallone Hosts Fireside Chat with Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Historic Investments in U.S. Economy,2022-10-13,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"New Brunswick, NJ –Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) hosted a fireside chat today with U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Gina M. Raimondo on the Biden Administration's historic investments in American manufacturing, innovation, and supply chains. The discussion also highlighted the progress Middlesex County has made in developing business and innovation in New Jersey, including the New Jersey Innovation and Technology Hub in New Brunswick. As Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Pallone has been instrumental in passing legislation to bolster the economy. He helped lead efforts to pass the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act in the House in July that invests over $52 billion to bolster semiconductor manufacturing, boost resilience in U.S. supply chains, create good-paying jobs, and lower costs for consumers. President Biden signed the bill into law in August. ""I'm proud to welcome Secretary Raimondo to New Brunswick, so she can hear about the great things Middlesex County is doing to boost our economy in New Jersey. Together with the Biden Administration, we're investing in American workers, innovation, and manufacturing,"" said Pallone. ""The CHIPS and Science Act will lower costs for consumers, create good-paying American jobs, and end our dangerous dependence on foreign manufacturers of critical goods. New Jersey has a well-known reputation for leading the nation in research and manufacturing and we're working together to continue that legacy by investing in American workers and businesses right here in our backyard.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-celebrates-55-million-grant-to-reduce-lead-exposure-in-trenton,Rep. Watson Coleman Celebrates $5.5 Million Grant to Reduce Lead Exposure in Trenton,2022-10-12,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Tuesday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced six projects that have been selected to receive over $30 million in grant funding under the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act. The City of Trenton is receiving a grant of $5,530,000 to help reduce lead exposure in the city’s water systems. ""This EPA WIIN grant is an important step toward environmental justice in New Jersey's 12th District. Lead contamination disproportionately harms low-income, Black, and brown communities, resulting in poor health outcomes for those who are already struggling,” said Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12). “By removing lead and bringing Trenton's water infrastructure into the 21st century, this investment will ensure that the residents of our state capital have clean, safe water for generations to come."" “A pillar of our work at EPA is ensuring that every person in every community has safe drinking water,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox. “The science on lead is settled—there is no safe level of exposure. This grant funding will help reduce exposure to lead in drinking water and should be used to support underserved communities that are most at risk for exposure.” This grant funding, and additional funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will help make rapid progress on the goal of addressing lead and removing lead pipes across the country. Lead poses serious health risks to both children and adults – children are especially vulnerable. Low-income and other historically underserved communities typically experience high levels of lead in their drinking water because they are disproportionately served by lead services lines.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/congresswomen-watson-coleman-bush-release-joint-statement-on-president-bidens-actions-on-federal-marijuana-offenses,"Congresswomen Watson Coleman, Bush Release Joint Statement on President Biden’s Actions on Federal Marijuana Offenses",2022-10-07,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Lawmakers call on Governors to issue pardons and Congress to take up Drug Policy Reform Act Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) and Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01) released a joint statement following President Biden’s announcement to pardon anyone who has been convicted of simple marijuana possession and his call to review the classification of marijuana. “Yesterday’s announcement from President Biden is welcome news and long overdue. By granting pardons to thousands of people convicted on simple federal marijuana possession charges and calling for a review of marijuana classification, President Biden is making a strong statement on the need to address long-term impacts of the war on drugs, and for that, we applaud him. We also know that the vast majority of simple marijuana possession convictions happen at the state level, therefore, we echo the President’s call for Governors to follow suit. “Overall, we must begin to recognize substance use as what it is: a public health issue. The criminalization of poverty, drug use, and possession, inequitable access to resources, and the militarization of police have all had devastating impacts, particularly on Black and brown communities. Last year, we introduced the Drug Policy Reform Act, legislation that would decriminalize all drugs, expunge and seal records, and make investments in health-centered approaches to substance use. Without proper redress and structural solutions rooted in equity and public health, lives will continue to be at risk and our nation’s families and communities will continue to be destabilized. We have an opportunity to fully transform federal drug policy in our country— and we cannot let it pass us by. We must save lives, protect Black and brown communities, and eliminate injustice everywhere it exists in our society. We urge Congress to swiftly advance our lifesaving bill. ”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-jayapal-and-johnson-call-on-bureau-of-prisons-to-properly-implement-first-step-act-address-other-issues,"Rep. Watson Coleman, Jayapal, and Johnson Call on Bureau of Prisons to Properly Implement First Step Act, Address Other Issues",2022-10-07,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus Task Force on Policing, Constitution, and Equality, along with Progressive Caucus Chair Pramila Jayapal (WA-7) and Judiciary Committee member Hank Johnson (GA-4) sent a letter to Federal Bureau of Prisons Director Colette S. Peters calling for more information on her plans to address ongoing issues facing the Bureau. Among the Members’ concerns is the Bureau’s failure thus far to properly execute the provisions of the First Step Act of 2018. Federal nonviolent inmates are eligible for early release under this legislation, but bureaucratic delays have prevented the BOP from effectively implementing it. Since its enactment into law in 2018, we’ve seen minimal movement by the BOP to fully implement the legislation as written. With the September 8th release of the time allotment rules that was being worked on before your official appointment, we feel this would be an opportunity to understand the rule and how we can ensure that it lives up to the spirit of the FSA.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-joins-protect-our-care-bus-tour-new-brunswick,Pallone Joins Protect Our Care Bus Tour in New Brunswick,2022-10-06,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"New Brunswick, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) joined Protect Our Care's nationwide bus tour in New Brunswick today with health care advocates and residents to celebrate the Inflation Reduction Act's historic provisions that will lower prescription drug and health care costs. Pallone also received the Health Care Champion Award to honor his work on behalf of New Jerseyans to make health care more accessible, affordable, and equitable. The Inflation Reduction Act will lower prescription drug costs for seniors by finally empowering Medicare to negotiate the cost of prescription drugs, capping the amount seniors pay for drugs at $2,000 annually, and capping the amount they pay for insulin at $35 per month. It will also dramatically lower the cost of monthly health insurance premiums for millions of Americans by extending expanded Affordable Care Act Marketplace subsidies through the end of 2025. The prescription drug and health care provisions included in the new law were originally authored and introduced by Pallone, who chairs the House Energy and Commerce Committee. ""The Inflation Reduction Act is one of the most significant pieces of health care legislation to move through Congress in over a decade, and it's going to lower prescription drug and health care costs for New Jerseyans. The new law finally breaks Big Pharma's monopoly on prescription drug prices. No one should have to choose between paying for lifesaving medications or food and rent,"" said Pallone. ""Importantly, it will help ensure seniors are no longer ripped off at the pharmacy counter by capping both their annual out-of-pocket drug spending as well as how much they can be charged for insulin. It also penalizes Big Pharma companies for unfairly hiking prices on seniors. ""The Inflation Reduction Act will also dramatically lower the cost of monthly health insurance premiums for millions of Americans and provide families with the peace of mind that comes with knowing they have high-quality health care coverage. Five million Americans have gained access to health care coverage over the last two years thanks to Democrats' efforts to make it more affordable. I'm grateful for everyone who joined us today and has stood with us together in the fight to make this legislation a reality."" ""We would not be standing here today without the tireless work of Chairman Frank Pallone Jr.,"" said Protect Our Care Executive Director Brad Woodhouse. ""Chairman Pallone has dedicated decades of service to fighting Big Pharma and other special interests and making health care more affordable, accessible, and equitable for the people of New Jersey. Now, his hard work is paying off again, and New Jersey seniors and families are going to see real relief thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. This bill will lower health premiums, drive down prescription drug costs, and improve care for millions of people — saving many thousands of dollars a year and giving them peace of mind knowing they can get the health care they need.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FEA83757-4EE8-42BA-BEBF-A690B251FB8B,Rep. Norcross Calls for National Animal Rescue Day,2022-10-01,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today at the Animal Welfare Association in Voorhees, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced a resolution he introduced in Congress to make the first Saturday of October each year National Animal Rescue Day. Around 6 million animals enter shelters each year, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Around half of these strays are adopted each year. The other half, tragically, are euthanized, including most healthy cats. Congressman Norcross’s resolution aims to bring attention to the unmet need of connecting strays with loving homes. “My family has grown up with loving animals throughout our lives, and the joy they bring is something families cherish,” said Congressman Norcross. “That’s why it is so tragic that millions of animals are orphaned each year and left in shelters, many of which are overwhelmed and lack the resources to adequately care for them. By establishing National Animal Rescue Day, I hope we can reduce the number of unnecessary animal deaths and increase the number of loving homes for our nation’s strays and rescues.” Specifically, Norcross’ National Animal Rescue Day resolution will encourage the support of animal shelters through increased resources and essential supplies; promote animal adoption by telling the stories about mistreated animals and successful rescues; reduce the need and use of euthanasia; and help reduce the number of abandoned and stray animals.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=E1C0FEE0-A4F5-40B0-95C4-A6CDE13AF96F,Rep. Norcross Announces Over $1.7 Million to Support Innovative Research in South Jersey,2022-09-30,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), a member of the Space, Science and Technology Committee, announced that Rowan University will receive $1,773,024 in federal funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF). Specifically, Rowan University will receive $273,047 for research under the direction of Dr. Shen Shyang Ho, as well as $1,499,977 in federal funding for research directed by Dr. Kaitlin Mallouk. Read more about the projects here and here. “These federal dollars will allow South Jersey’s brightest to continue leading the way in research and development,” said Congressman Norcross. “Rowan University has established itself as a leader in scientific innovation, making remarkable breakthroughs and preparing the next generation of innovators. I’m proud to help strengthen our community’s workforce by supporting this funding and look forward to seeing the results of their research.” “Machines can be taught to detect unusual patterns in complex systems, allowing for the real-time detection of problems, such as fraud, suspicious behavior, manufacturing defects, power outages or even disease,” said Dr. Shen-Shyang Ho, associate professor of computer science at Rowan University. “With this grant from the National Science Foundation, we intend to design a reliable and effective framework for detecting anomalies, provide accurate, early warnings and explain why they are happening, so decision-makers, government agencies and the general public can respond accordingly.” This announcement followed Congressman Norcross’s steady effort to expand research opportunities for South Jersey students. This summer, Congressman Norcross fought to pass the CHIPS and Science Act, which delivers approximately $141 billion to promote innovative research and supercharge technological advances across the country. In August 2022, Norcross nearly $1.5 million in federal grants to bolster climate science and engineering in South Jersey. Additionally, he secured $500,000 in community project funding for a new wind energy jobs training program at Rowan University in March 2022.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-votes-to-fund-government-avert-shutdown,"Rep. Watson Coleman Votes to Fund Government, Avert Shutdown",2022-09-30,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. (September 30, 2022) — Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) voted to pass a continuing resolution that would keep the federal government funded for 11 more weeks. Already passed by the Senate, the continuing resolution will fund the government through December 16 and avert a shutdown. Among other provisions, the resolution includes aid for the Ukrainian government and relief for victims of the Jackson, Mississippi water crisis and Hurricane Fiona. “By passing this continuing resolution, Congress is voting to keep our government running and our economy strong,” said Rep. Watson Coleman. “On top of preventing a government shutdown, this legislation funds disaster relief, supports the people of Ukraine, and more.” In addition to preventing a government shutdown, the continuing resolution provides funding for the new 9-8-8 National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which has seen a 40 percent increase in calls since adopting the 9-8-8 number. Also included is funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps low-income families keep their homes warm. “I’m especially proud that this crucial legislation will invest in suicide prevention and keep Americans in states like New Jersey safe during the cold winter months,” said Rep. Watson Coleman. “Since my days in the New Jersey Assembly, I’ve said ‘show me your budget and I’ll show you your values.’ The investments in this continuing resolution reflect the Democratic Congress’ commitment to building a country that works for its most vulnerable.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=22FE0101-D663-4CA7-A092-44B90D33B7E3,Rep. Norcross’s Legislation to Ensure Health Plans Adequately Cover Mental Health Passes House,2022-09-29,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement regarding his Parity Enforcement Act, which passed the House today as part of the Mental Heal Matters Act. “The law says health insurance companies need to provide parity in mental health coverage, but the reality is that many insurers don’t,” said Congressman Norcross. “My Parity Enforcement Act gives the Department of Labor teeth to enforce the law, which will help keep health plans honest and get patients the services they need. Mental health takes many forms, but no one can tell me that your state of mind is less important than the rest of your bodily health.” “Every day, we have patients who lack access to mental health services because insurers fail to comply with the federal mental health parity law,” said AMA President Jack Resneck Jr., MD. “The Labor Department is ideally situated to help make sure that employee-sponsored health plans respond to the law and patient needs. Mental health services are needed more than ever to deal with the combination of Covid and the continued drug overdose epidemic, and we appreciate that Rep. Norcross has offered a solution. We will support him as he works to pass this life-saving legislation.” Background In 2008, Congress began requiring mental health parity via the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, which required insurance plans to provide the same level of coverage for mental health and substance use disorders that they provide for physical health conditions. The problem is that the law cannot be adequately enforced for the millions of employees that receive health insurance through their employer. Currently, the Department of Labor (DOL) is only able to require employers to reimburse their workers after there are parity violations in their self-funded insurance plans. However, DOL cannot act against the insurance company that is offering the insurance plan. That leaves DOL with no front-end enforcement mechanism to ensure there’s compliance with existing mental health and substance-use parity requirements. The Parity Enforcement Act gives the U.S. Department of Labor an enforcement mechanism to hold health insurers and plan sponsors accountable for offering health plans that violate the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008. The legislative language of the Parity Enforcement Act was added to a larger mental health care package – the Mental Health Matters Act (H.R. 7780). That larger package passed the House on September 28, 2022, delivering to the DOL the enforcement authority it needs to hold health insurance companies accountable.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=BD886D00-3D80-4F0A-B8AF-3F0F24A534CF,Rep. Norcross Memorializes NJ Governor Jim Florio in U.S. House of Representatives Speech,2022-09-29,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my late friend and former governor, Jim Florio – a dedicated public servant who cared deeply for those in New Jersey and the nation. “He served our country in the Navy. He continued that service when he returned home, in the New Jersey Assembly for four years, followed by 15 years in this House of Representatives. Then he returned to our state to become the 41st governor. “He was an environmentalist long before it was popular. Here in Congress, he authored the Superfund act, one of the most remarkable pieces of legislation in terms of cleaning up hazardous sites across the country. As governor, he signed the clean water act, one of the strictest in the nation at the time. Combined, these achievements saved countless lives across this great country. “He did not work through political division, but by doing what he knew was right. That’s why he received the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award. “On behalf of myself, the State of New Jersey, and the nation, we are grateful for this service to our state. We lost one of our greatest champions, and he will be missed by all who had the honor of knowing him. “My deepest sympathies to his family and his loved ones. “Thank you, Mr. Speaker, I yield back.” Background Congressman Donald Norcross grew up in South Jersey seeing then-Assemblyman Jim Florio at Labor Day events celebrating local labor hero Peter J. McGuire. Today, Congressman Norcross represents New Jersey’s 1st Congressional District, which the late Governor Florio represented in the U.S. House for 15 years before being elected Governor of New Jersey.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F1594B10-A2A6-4CD4-8146-C31DB95C6B9A,"Rep. Norcross Announces $270,000 to Support Women’s Health and Increase Opioid Use Disorder Treatment",2022-09-27,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will grant $270,000 in federal funding to Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine (RowanSOM). The grant will increase their capacity to treat and raise awareness of endometriosis among women and curtail the disease of opioid addiction in South Jersey. Endometriosis is a chronic pain condition found in ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the intestines, which could lead to life-threatening complications and opiate use disorder. “RowanSOM is working every day to deliver life-saving care in South Jersey, and this grant will expand access to those who need it most,” said Congressman Norcross. “It will help South Jersey professionals continue to develop world-class medical care and raise public health awareness for Americans suffering from chronic pain and the disease of addiction. I will continue fighting for legislation in Congress that equips health care professionals with the resources they need to help women at risk for fatal overdose.” “I want to thank Congressman Norcross for the continued support of our school and of women’s health issues, and I am grateful to the Department of Health and Human Services for funding this project,” said Dr. Lauren Spivack of the School of Osteopathic Medicine and principal investigator of the grant. “Endometriosis occurs in nearly 10% of women and in over 70 percent of those with chronic pelvic pain. A recent study indicated that nearly 38 percent of women found to have endometriosis were at high risk of chronic opiate use conditions to address their endometriosis-related pain. Our project will target this population to develop education on endometriosis, identify women at risk of the disease, and link them with providers in the community trained to treat endometriosis, all in an effort to decrease opiate abuse for those women suffering from chronic pelvic pain.” As a member of the Bipartisan Addiction and Mental Health Task Force, Congressman Donald Norcross has fought to expand access to mental health and substance abuse treatments. In July 2022, Congressman Norcross announced over $400,000 in federal funding for South Jersey health care professionals and expand youth support services through RowanSOM’s CARES Institute. He also introduced the Opioid Treatment Access Act in December 2021, which was partially included in the House-passed Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act of 2022. About RowanSOM The RowanSOM has long been a leader in addressing substance abuse disorders and keeping our communities safe. By receiving this grant from HHS, they will increase their capacity to implement treatments for endometriosis in those suffering from substance abuse disorder and chronic pain.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=42CD3845-48C6-49B5-9476-886E97B974EE,Rep. Norcross Statement on Passing of Governor James J. Florio,2022-09-26,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement upon learning of the death of former Governor of New Jersey James J. Florio. “I was saddened to learn of the passing of Governor Jim Florio. He was a dedicated public servant who cared deeply for our great state and its people. He was a true environmentalist, a trailblazer long before it was popular to do so. As a congressman he championed the superfund law that has cleaned up dangerous chemicals in communities in New Jersey and around the country, and as governor he signed the state’s clean water act, saving countless lives. He led by seeing the good in every individual and reached across party lines to do what was right even when it was hard. My deepest sympathies to his wife and family. New Jersey has lost one of our greatest champions and he will be truly missed.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-introduces-buy-low-and-sell-high-act-new-legislation-keep-gas-prices,"Pallone Introduces the Buy Low and Sell High Act, New Legislation to Keep Gas Prices Falling",2022-09-26,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) introduced the Buy Low and Sell High Act today, new legislation that creates an Economic Petroleum Reserve designed to continue the trend of falling gasoline prices and make money for American taxpayers by empowering the Department of Energy (DOE) to buy oil when prices are low and sell oil when prices are high. ""Americans are tired of bearing the burden of our dependence on a volatile, unpredictable oil market controlled primarily by foreign dictators and adversaries. It's time for new, innovative solutions to keep bringing prices down, and that's where the Economic Petroleum Reserve comes in. By empowering DOE to buy oil when prices are low and sell when they are high, my bill helps us regain control of domestic gas prices and protects drivers from future price fluctuations,"" said Pallone. ""Not only does this bill grant DOE the flexibility it needs to keep prices falling, but it also recognizes that our reliance on fossil fuels makes us weaker and uses the proceeds from oil sales to build out electric vehicle infrastructure. This is what a win-win looks like."" After the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) oil embargo of 1973 – 1974, Congress created the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) to insulate Americans from global oil supply disruptions. While President Biden has successfully used the SPR to lower gas prices – which have fallen more than $1.30 per gallon since June – Pallone believes new authorities are needed to ensure that OPEC and Russia cannot continue to manipulate global oil prices to the detriment of American consumers. The Buy Low and Sell High Act gives the President the ability to better protect American consumers by designating a subset of the SPR as the ""Economic Petroleum Reserve"" (EPR). It grants DOE the ability to sell barrels from the EPR when prices are high, ensuring that Americans get immediate price relief instead of waiting months or years. The new EPR would consist of up to 350 million barrels of oil. DOE would have the authority to purchase oil for the EPR at prices below $60 per barrel and then could sell oil when prices exceed $90 per barrel. In addition to creating the EPR, Pallone's bill also: Establishes strategic gasoline and diesel reserves in every region of the United States, ensuring product can be deployed immediately during emergencies, such as the Colonial Pipeline malware attack; Prohibits barrels stored within the SPR from being exported or sold to entities owned, controlled, or influenced by China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, or any other country under U.S. sanctions; Reduces our reliance on foreign oil and empowers states to lead the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) by investing profits from oil sales in state EV infrastructure programs; Lowers gasoline prices and improves our energy security by funding improvements at oil refineries located in allied countries; and Ensures that the federal government leads by example and sets targets for acquiring a fully zero-emission federal vehicle fleet.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-passing-of-former-congressman-governor-jim-florio,"Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Passing of Former Congressman, Governor Jim Florio",2022-09-26,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"“In Congress, Jim fought to pass the Superfund legislation that cleaned up toxic pollution across the country. As governor, he enacted our state’s life-saving assault weapons ban. Thanks to Jim, New Jersey is a cleaner, safer, better place. ""Much of my career growth and preparation happened under Governor Florio's administration, for which I am eternally grateful. “An exemplary public servant and truly principled leader, Jim will be missed. He has joined many of his friends, including my beloved father, in his eternal rest. The Florio family will be in my prayers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=2CD7464F-B6BA-4D50-ACD6-796304BC4E23,"Rep. Norcross Helps Local Fire Departments Get Over $575,000 for Live-Saving Equipment",2022-09-23,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today announced four local fire departments will receive a total of $575,965 in federal grants from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This federal funding will allow the departments to buy new protective equipment and enhance safety measures. “Our firefighters put their lives on the line every time they rush to an emergency,” said Congressman Norcross. “This funding will ensure our brave first responders have the equipment to protect our communities and increase the size of their response teams. I’ll continue fighting to keep our firefighters as safe as possible when they are battling fires and saving lives.” The following local fire departments received grants through DHS funding: $448,615 to Glendora Volunteer Fire Company $38,205 to East Greenwich Township Fire & Rescue $89,144 to Gloucester City Fire Company $6,571 to Berlin Fire Company “First and foremost, I would like to thank Congressman Norcross and his staff for their time and attention to our grant application. The application is for funds for additional equipment and training for our swiftwater and dive team programs,” said Chief Joseph M. Jackson Jr. of Berlin Township Fire Company. “The Berlin Township Fire District #1 Swiftwater and Dive Team is made up of members of West Berlin Fire Rescue and Berlin Fire Company, exemplifying the shared service concept that Congressman Norcross endorses. The Team not only serves both Berlins, but additionally is a Camden County asset as part of the Camden County Type 1 team and can be deployed anywhere at any time. The Team was part of the Camden County Team that responded and performed numerous evacuations and rescues in North Jersey, as a result of Hurricane IDA.” “Speaking for the Residents of East Greenwich Township, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Congressman Norcross for his unwavering support towards our local first responders and volunteer fire companies in South Jersey and Gloucester County. This grant was much-needed financial relief and without the Congressman's support would fall on the burden of the local residents. The Congressman has been instrumental in the past helping East Greenwich Township to obtain grants and we are thankful for his leadership and support,” said East Greenwich Township Mayor Dale L. Archer. “East Greenwich Township Fire and Rescue would like to thank Congressman Norcross for his continued support for the fire service in South Jersey. Without his unwavering support, federal grant opportunities like this would not continue to be possible. This grant will help provide our volunteer fire department with much-needed equipment and training in firefighter survival techniques to ensure the safety of our personnel,” said Chief Rob Gould of East Greenwich Township Fire and Rescue. “On behalf of all our partners in this grant, I would like to thank Congressman Norcross for his continued support of the First Responders in the 1st District and across the country,” said Chief Michael Hagan of Gloucester City. “We appreciate all of the support from our elected officials and our combined effort to provide the protection equipment our firefighters need to protect our residents at a reasonable cost to the taxpayer. The cost of air packs is very expensive and without this award, we wouldn’t be able to replace this vital protective equipment,” said Chief Michael Ricciardelli of Glendora.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-passing-of-former-mercer-county-commissioner-pat-colavita,Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Passing of Former Mercer County Commissioner Pat Colavita,2022-09-23,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"“I am deeply saddened to learn of Pat Colavita’s passing. Pat spent more than three decades in local office, serving as a member of the Lawrence Township Board of Education, a Lawrence Township Council member, and the mayor of Lawrence before being elected Mercer County Commissioner. He personified public service and represented the best of New Jersey. I treasured our friendship. “My heart goes out to the Colavita family during this difficult time. They will be in my prayers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=4C06314A-E19A-4709-B3DF-BCBA0BF44650,Rep. Norcross Votes to Pass Public Safety Package,2022-09-22,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) voted for a package of four public safety bills to prevent gun violence and keep our communities safe. “I voted for this package to make South Jersey communities, families, and children safer,” said Congressman Norcross. “Earlier this year, House Democrats passed historic gun safety legislation to get dangerous weapons off our streets. Today, we’re again proving our unwavering commitment to public safety by giving local police departments the resources they need to build trust in the communities they serve and funding mental health crisis responders. By linking law enforcement accountability with evidence-based policing models, we’ll be able to reduce crime nationwide.” The public safety package includes the following four bills:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=58E97A7F-393F-4FA9-BE57-86E08E2CA8A4,"Norcross, Warren Urge Department of Defense to Treat Teachers on Overseas Military Bases Fairly",2022-09-22,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ-01) and U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) led a letter to Director Thomas M. Brady of the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), regarding urgent matters concerning contract negotiations between DoDEA and the Overseas Federation of Teachers (OFT). “… [It] has been brought to our attention that DoDEA’s Labor-Management Employee Relations (LMER) representatives are refusing to bargain with the union over important professional practices… that are commonplace in school districts throughout our country,” the letter writers said. “We have one of the most pro-worker presidents in decades, which means we also have one of the most pro-worker commanders-in-chief in decades,” said Congressman Norcross. “It is concerning that the DoDEA seems set on implementing the anti-worker executive orders of a former president which are completely contrary to the stated goals of the Biden administration. DoDEA educators deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, and that means negotiating with them in good faith.” “DoDEA teachers do powerfully important work serving U.S. military children and families across the world,” said Senator Warren. “They deserve the right to fight for better work conditions and benefits. DoDEA should follow through on the Biden administration’s commitment to protect the federal workforce and ensure a meaningful right to collective bargaining for workers.” American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten had this to say: “We owe a special duty to our military families to ensure their kids in schools overseas have the best. That’s why there has been a decades-long productive and respectful relationship between our union affiliate, the Overseas Federation of Teachers, and the Department of Defense Education Activity that has helped get students and teachers what they need to succeed. Tom Brady and the current managers of DoDEA are changing this and trying to eliminate all voice and the ability of the educators overseas to accomplish the work they do. “Brady never acted this way when he ran schools on the mainland; why is he engaged in this now? DoDEA is attempting to strip teachers of the agency Education Secretary Miguel Cardona repeatedly has said they need to meet the needs of children. They are denying resources that support classroom learning, including adequate technology to the children of those who are in the armed forces. They are refusing to negotiate on safety and diversity issues so that students and teachers feel safe and welcome in classrooms, and they are denying educators the prep time they need to plan lessons. “We don’t want to lose the programs, practices, and trust that have made a huge difference in the lives of our military and diplomatic families and the educators they trust to teach their kids while they live and work abroad. It’s time for DoDEA to show OFT educators and the students and families of this community the respect they deserve.” In addition to Congressman Norcross and Senator Warren, the letter was signed by a bicameral group of their colleagues on the Committees on Armed Services: Representatives Anthony G. Brown (D-MD-04), John Garamendi (D-CA-03), Andy Kim (D-NJ-03), Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29), Seth Moulton (D-MA-06), Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11), and Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Jackey Rosen (D-NV).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=12DF115F-3DF3-444D-8016-BD1ED9061E42,Rep. Norcross Votes to Protect Integrity of Presidential Elections,2022-09-21,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) voted to pass the Presidential Election Reform Act (H.R. 8873), which would reform the Electoral Count Act of 1887 to protect the rule of law and the integrity of presidential elections in the United States. “It’s real simple: your vote counts and no one – elected official or otherwise – should be able to take it away,” said Congressman Norcross. “Free and fair elections are fundamental to the survival of democracy in the United States. The events of January 6 and subsequent efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election demonstrate the need for reforms that secure our elections. Regardless of which party wins, we must all respect the rule of law and conduct ourselves in a way that ensures the integrity of our democratic process. This bipartisan bill will help do that, and I’m proud to vote for it.” The Presidential Election Reform Act helps protect the integrity of U.S. presidential elections by:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-stresses-armenia-s-security-during-congressional-delegation-visit,Pallone Stresses Armenia’s Security During Congressional Delegation Visit,2022-09-19,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) joined a Congressional delegation to Yerevan, Armenia over the weekend with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Congresswoman Anna Eshoo, and Congresswoman Jackie Speier. Pallone is a Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues. The trip highlighted the strong support of the United States for Armenia after Azerbaijan recently escalated deadly attacks on Armenian territory. During the trip, the Members met with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Minister of Defense Suren Papikyan, and Speaker Alen Simonyan. The Members also visited the Tsitsernakaberd Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex in Yerevan. ""I was proud to join Speaker Pelosi and my colleagues in representing the United States Congress in Armenia at a critical moment in the Republic's history. This was the most valuable trip I have ever made to Armenia. We are very concerned about Armenia's security and want to do whatever we can to be more supportive of its defense against any future threat from Azerbaijan,"" Pallone said. ""As Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, I will continue to help bolster Armenia's democracy, hold Aliyev accountable for his hostility toward Armenia and push for a closer relationship between our countries. There is only one aggressor in this conflict, and Azerbaijan must end its attacks on Armenian and remove its troops from all Armenian territory.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=E9AB7EC9-376C-4251-9C38-7CBD695AAE17,Rep. Norcross Statement on Tentative Rail Labor Agreement,2022-09-18,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement regarding the tentative railway labor agreement. The tentative agreement was reached in the early hours this morning after U.S. Secretary for Labor Marty Walsh hosted negotiators at the Department of Labor for hours of talks between rail companies and unions representing tens of thousands of rail workers. “The tentative agreement reached in the early hours of this morning is good for rail workers and the American economy. This was a high-stakes process that had massive implications for tens of thousands of workers and large swaths of the national supply chain. As someone who has been involved in numerous labor negotiations, I know how intense these final hours can be – but I also know the fruit that good-faith discussions can bear.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=9FAB778A-A333-409F-A625-5617B8DF5293,Rep. Donald Norcross and U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona Tour Camden High School,2022-09-16,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ-01) joined Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona to conclude the Road to Success Back to School Bus Tour in New Jersey. The week-long, multi-state road trip showcased the many ways school communities are helping students recover and thrive, putting them on the road to success. Congressman Norcross, along with New Jersey Acting Commissioner of Education Angelica Allen-McMillan, Camden City Mayor Vic Carstarphen, and Camden City School District Superintendent Katrina McCombs, toured Camden High School with Secretary Cardona, where they learned about its partnership with the National Partnership for Student Success (NPSS), a new coalition that supports the expansion, launch, and improvement of high-impact tutoring, mentoring, and other programs to help students recover academically, and support student mental health and overall wellbeing. The NPSS follows President Biden’s call for more tutors and mentors in his 2022 State of the Union Address to help students recover from the pandemic and promote college and career readiness. “Investing in our students and teachers is critically important for the wellbeing of our children,"" said Congressman Norcross. ""The National Partnership for Student Success is ensuring our kids are prepared for what comes next: whether it’s college, learning a trade, entering public or military service. The career readiness of the next generation is critical to our success as a city, region, and nation – and that starts with a high-quality education and job training. I want to thank Secretary Cardona for coming back to Camden to see the partnerships our schools and communities are creating to support South Jersey students and educators.” A senior member of the House Education and Labor Committee, Congressman Norcross is a champion of programs that support educators and students so that equitable educational opportunities – be they vocational training programs and apprenticeships or traditional classroom schooling – are accessible in South Jersey. Since the pandemic, he has helped to pass the American Rescue Plan, which made historic investments in South Jersey’s K-12 schools and universities, helping kids return to and stay in class safely. He has also championed job training programs for those seeking to enter the skilled trades.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/armenia-caucus-co-chairs-issue-statement-azerbaijani-attacks-armenia,Armenia Caucus Co-Chairs Issue Statement on Azerbaijani Attacks on Armenia,2022-09-13,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues Co-Chairs Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Gus M. Bilirakis (FL-12), Jackie Speier (CA-14), David G. Valadao (CA-21), and Adam B. Schiff (CA-28) issued the following statement on Azerbaijani attacks on Armenia: ""We strongly condemn the escalation of hostilities by Azerbaijani forces in southern Armenia. Yet again, President Aliyev is employing the same deadly attacks on sovereign Armenian territory to seek justification for his continued hostility and assaults since the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War and to force Armenia to capitulate to his unreasonable territorial demands. World leaders should not stand idly by and make false equivocations between the two sides. There is only one aggressor in this conflict that must be stopped. We urge the Biden Administration to take immediate action to halt Azerbaijan's aggressions and finally hold Aliyev accountable for his destabilizing actions.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-highlights-federal-funding-historic-perth-amboy-free-public-library,Pallone Highlights Federal Funding for Historic Perth Amboy Free Public Library,2022-09-09,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Perth Amboy, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) joined a ribbon cutting ceremony today with local elected officials to highlight efforts to restore the historic Perth Amboy Free Public Library. Pallone secured $1.5 million in a federal spending bill to help the city renovate and upgrade the library to better serve the needs of the community. President Biden signed the bill into law earlier this year. The library was originally built in 1903 as a Carnegie Library and requires extensive repairs and renovations to provide essential services to the community. The funding will help repair and upgrade the building's exterior, interior rooms, and restroom facilities. The funding will also provide new and expanded workspaces for students and technological infrastructure to support digital learning programs. ""The Perth Amboy Free Public Library is so important for everyone in Perth Amboy. This historic building is a place for people to come together to learn new things, stay connected to each other, and get the resources they need. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw just how important libraries were as students and teachers transitioned to remote learning. I'm proud that I was able to secure this funding so that the library can continue to fulfill its mission to the community,"" Pallone said. ""I want to thank Mayor Caba for his passion and vision that help make Perth Amboy a better place for the city's residents. I'm grateful to everyone who joined us today. Their dedication to the library will make it shine for years to come."" ""For the past 118 years, the Perth Amboy library has been an indispensable resource for our residents and has grown to be much more than a repository for books but a hub for community events and education. Now the library has the opportunity to grow not only in the addition of a handicap accessible ramp to create a more inclusive structure but also with a $1.5 million investment secured by Congressman Frank Pallone. These funds will allow the library to undertake much needed repairs so that it can continue serving the public for generations to come,"" said Assemblywoman Lopez.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=CEF11304-9A97-4E6D-8305-231BDDB9A9C6,"Norcross, EPA, Carstarphen Celebrate 50th Anniversary of Clean Water Act and Highlight Water Investments in South Jersey",2022-09-08,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"CAMDEN, NJ – Today, Congressman Norcross joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen, and other local leaders in celebrating 50 years of the Clean Water Act and highlighting water infrastructure improvements in South Jersey. Congressman Norcross delivered remarks on the importance of the Clean Water Act for South Jersey families and the continued progress delivered by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which he helped pass in November 2021. “The Clean Water Act has helped protect the water we drink for 50 years,” said Congressman Norcross. “Before this landmark legislation, hazardous waste in the Delaware River, Cooper River, and Mantua Creek put millions of South Jersey families at risk, including mine. I’m proud that we have made historic investments in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that protect our children for years to come.” “When Congress passed the Clean Water Act in 1972—with an overwhelming bipartisan majority—it charted a new path for America’s waters. As a result, we have seen transformational progress over the last 50 years—waters that were once polluted are now fishable and swimmable,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox. “President Biden and Congress have laid the foundation for the next 50 years of progress by investing $50 billion in EPA’s water programs through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.” “Iconic waterbodies like the Delaware and Cooper Rivers are the lifeblood of communities like Camden,” said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “EPA is proud to provide support to the City of Camden and the Camden County Municipal Utilities Authority as they have worked for many years to improve access to clean water and reduce pollution in communities across the city.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-joins-telephone-town-hall-hosted-aarp-0,Pallone Joins Telephone Town Hall Hosted By AARP,2022-09-08,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Long Branch, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today participated in a telephone town hall hosted by AARP with over 800 constituents to provide an update on his work to lower prescription drug and health care costs. Pallone originally authored or advanced key provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act through his Energy and Commerce Committee over the last couple of years. President Biden signed the bill into law last month. ""The Inflation Reduction Act is one of the most significant pieces of health care legislation in over a decade. It breaks Big Pharma's monopoly on prescription drug prices by finally empowering Medicare to negotiate lower prices, capping the amount seniors pay for drugs at $2,000 annually and $35 a month for insulin, and penalizing companies that unfairly hike prices faster than inflation by requiring them to pay a rebate to Medicare. This legislation finally levels the playing field to ensure seniors are no longer forced to choose between putting food on their table and their lifesaving prescription drugs,"" Pallone said. ""I am grateful to AARP's 90,128 members in my district and all of those who took the time to join this telephone town hall to share their thoughts and ask questions. The well-being of New Jerseyans is my top priority and hearing directly from my constituents allows me to be a better advocate and legislator."" ""On behalf of AARP New Jersey's nearly 1.2 million members and all older Garden State residents, we thank Congressman Pallone for joining our telephone town hall today to celebrate a big legislative victory and discuss the historic new law that will lower prescription drug prices for Medicare recipients,"" said Crystal McDonald, AARP New Jersey Associate State Director of Advocacy. ""AARP thanks Congressman Pallone for his leadership on this issue and standing up to the big drug companies. Because of Congressman Pallone's leadership, millions of seniors will save money on their prescriptions."" KEY HEALTH CARE PROVISIONS ORIGINALLY AUTHORED BY PALLONE & OTHER HEALTH COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN: The Inflation Reduction Act includes a number of key provisions that were originally authored and introduced by Pallone and other health leaders in the House. Lowering Prescription Drug Costs for Americans: The Inflation Reduction Act will rein in the soaring cost of prescription drugs and cap out-of-pocket costs for millions of seniors. Many of the key provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act to lower prescription drugs costs were first proposed by Pallone, Ways and Means Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA), and Education and Labor Chairman Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott (D-VA) in H.R. 3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now, which was introduced in September 2019. The comprehensive bill empowered Medicare to negotiate the cost of prescription drugs and imposed an inflation rebate on pharmaceutical manufacturers that unfairly raised prices on consumers. H.R. 3 also capped seniors' out-of-pocket costs on Medicare Part D prescription drugs at $2,000 annually. The House of Representatives passed H.R. 3 in December 2019, but the Senate did not act on the bill. Expanding Affordable Care Act (ACA) & Lowering Health Care Costs:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-leads-letter-department-state-and-usaid-urging-meaningful-aid-artsakh,Pallone Leads Letter to the Department of State and USAID Urging Meaningful Aid to Artsakh,2022-09-02,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) led a letter with Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01), Congressman David Valadao (CA-21), Congresswoman Jackie Speier (CA-14), Congressman Adam Schiff (CA-28) and 44 colleagues to the Department of State and USAID urging them to address the overwhelming humanitarian crisis in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) as a result of Azerbaijan's aggression. This is especially important as the people of Artsakh celebrate their 31st Independence Day and the birth of their democracy on September 2. ""We are deeply concerned by the lack of meaningful humanitarian aid to the vulnerable Armenian population in Artsakh and urge you to take immediate steps dedicating significant resources to these individuals,"" the lawmakers wrote. ""The $5,000,000 in Fiscal Year 2021 funding that USAID has committed, and the assistance allocated through the United Nations' Armenia Interagency Response Plan (IA-RP) have been wholly insufficient to address this crisis. Many families have bravely returned to their homes in Artsakh despite the ongoing threat of violence from Azerbaijani troops and the food, shelter, and energy insecurities they face. We are also extremely concerned that the individuals who remain in Artsakh have not received any of the previously allocated U.S. assistance. ""Our country has historically promoted peace in Artsakh through U.S. government-funded landmine and unexploded ordnance clearance efforts. We have also supported rebuilding through millions of dollars of direct aid for humanitarian assistance initiatives like maternal health care and clean drinking water projects. The need for this assistance has only grown due to Azerbaijan's indiscriminate bombing campaigns in 2020 and the ongoing provocations by their troops which further endanger food, water, energy, and other critical resources for these communities. It is especially urgent because of the recent evacuation and closure of the Lachin/Berdzor corridor, forcing Armenian families to leave their homes and shutting off a vital route used for transportation and communications between Artsakh and Armenia. ""We strongly urge the Department of State and USAID to significantly increase funding that will directly assist the Armenian population in Nagorno-Karabakh, including assistance for housing, food security, water and sanitation, health care, rehabilitation, and demining and UXO clearance services they need to safely rebuild their lives, homes, and communities. We also urge you to take every action possible to protect the historic and cultural Armenian sites in territory held by Azerbaijan, which many reports indicate are currently under threat."" The people of Artsakh continue to face severe hardships caused both by the deadly 44-day war that Azerbaijani forces provoked in 2020 and the ongoing aggressions committed against innocent civilians. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has acknowledged that over 90,000 refugees displaced to Armenia, the majority of whom are women, children, and elderly, are suffering through an acute humanitarian crisis. However, there has been concerningly little international attention paid to the displaced families from Artsakh living in Armenia and reports indicate little, if any, U.S. assistance has made it to those still living in the territory.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-secures-16-million-in-funding-for-reconstruction-on-dunhams-corner-road,Rep. Watson Coleman Secures $1.6 Million in Funding for Reconstruction on Dunhams Corner Road,2022-09-01,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) visited the East Brunswick Community Arts Center with East Brunswick Mayor Brad Cohen, South Brunswick Mayor Charlie Carley and members of their respective city councils and administrations to present a check for $1,600,091 secured by the Congresswoman for repairs and improvements to Dunhams Corner Road which borders East and South Brunswick. The more-than 40-year-old road will be repaired and a crucial drainage system will be installed. “As a Member of the House Appropriations Committee, I play an important role in deciding where and how the federal government spends its money,” said Watson Coleman. “It continues to be of the upmost importance that we invest in improving our infrastructure. Future generations will benefit from the forward-looking actions we take now.” ""Grants like these allow us to do those improvements and alleviate the tax burden on our residents. This is why we work closely with our partners at the Federal, State, and County levels,” said Mayor Cohen. The funding for the Dunhams Corner Road Project comes in addition to approximately $7 million in federal funding for nine other projects across New Jersey’s 12th District in the fiscal year 2022 omnibus. These projects range from youth development programs to infrastructure restoration. Additionally, the Congresswoman helped secure a $750,000 grant opportunity for the East Brunswick Library. The Library is the most utilized municipal building in East Brunswick and the HVAC system needs to be replaced.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-applauds-historic-climate-achievements-inflation-reduction-act,Pallone Applauds Historic Climate Achievements in the Inflation Reduction Act,2022-08-30,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Long Branch, NJ - Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) held a press conference today in Long Branch with local environmental advocates on the historic climate achievements in the Inflation Reduction Act. The bill is the single-largest investment in climate action in American history and includes key climate provisions originally authored by Pallone or advanced through his Energy and Commerce Committee. Pallone managed the bill on the House Floor. He also joined President Biden at the White House this month when the President signed the bill into law. The Inflation Reduction Act makes unparalleled investments in climate action, clean energy, and environmental justice, all while creating new, homegrown clean energy jobs and lowering energy costs for American families. Crucially, the bill will slash our nation's climate pollution by 40 percent by the end of this decade – putting our country on track to meet our climate goals. ""The Inflation Reduction Act is a historic achievement in our efforts to tackle the climate crisis. It includes many provisions from my Energy and Commerce Committee that will aggressively drive down dangerous methane pollution, deploy low- and zero-emission technologies nationwide, and reduce energy usage through home energy efficiency upgrades. Critically, it will also launch a new era for homegrown clean jobs and more stable, more affordable energy costs for American families,"" Pallone said. ""This bill also includes funding for living shoreline projects to protect coastal communities like the ones along the Jersey Shore. I'm thrilled that we are finally taking aggressive action to combat the worsening climate crisis. This legislation lays the foundation for a cleaner, more prosperous future for us all."" The Inflation Reduction Act also includes an unprecedented $2.6 billion to conserve and restore coastal habitats and protect coastal communities that is modeled on Pallone's living shorelines legislation. Living shoreline infrastructure projects use natural materials and systems, including dunes, wetlands, and oyster reefs to support the natural flood resilience of healthy shoreline ecosystems. Natural infrastructure is cost-effective and adaptable to changing environmental conditions. It also enhances ecosystem functions which can improve water quality and wildlife habitat protection. The bill reinstates the Superfund tax on oil companies effective January 1, 2023. The tax is expected to raise $11.7 billion. Pallone has long advocated for reinstating the tax on these companies to ensure polluters, not taxpayers, foot the bill for cleaning up waste and pollution. The Inflation Reduction Act includes provisions that clarify and reinforce the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions as air pollutants. This is in direct response to the Supreme Court's decision in West Virginia v. E.P.A that limited the EPA's authority under the Clean Air Act. ""The Inflation Reduction Act is the biggest investment this nation has made to fight climate change and expand clean, renewable energy. It's the start we need to reduce climate pollutants in line with the scientific consensus and this gives the nation the kickstart we need. It fulfills the promise of the Superfund law, to ensure that polluting industries pay to clean up toxic sites and protect the Jersey Shore from coastal flooding,"" said Doug O'Malley, Director of Environment New Jersey. ""Congressman Pallone has been an environmental champion for decades in Congress – this law reflects years of work from the Congressman and the environmental community to put clean energy, electric vehicle and energy efficiency front and center as a national priority."" ""This landmark law is good for the planet and good for the people of New Jersey, and we're proud to stand with Chairman Pallone and celebrate the Inflation Reduction Act,"" said Ed Potosnak, Executive Director of New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. ""The Inflation Reduction Act that Congressman Pallone championed will invest nearly $370 billion to fight climate change, helping us get toward our goal while creating 9 million good-paying union jobs and lowering costs for working families and small businesses."" ""One of the great climate change mitigation benefits from the Inflation Reduction Act is the funding for living shorelines. Instead of standard bulkheads, these living shorelines use natural materials to make our coastlines more resilient, protect homes, and improve natural habitat,"" said Greg Remaud, CEO and Baykeeper of the NY/NJ Baykeeper. ""The Inflation Reduction Act will significantly accelerate New Jersey's progress on creating a more just and sustainable clean energy economy,"" said Richard Lawton, Executive Director of the New Jersey Sustainable Business Council. ""Its well-designed incentives will boost market innovation and leverage private investment in ways that will lower energy costs, create good paying jobs, and drive sustainable growth at the scale required to meet the challenge of climate change. Thanks to President Biden, Congressman Pallone and other congressional climate leaders for delivering the most sweeping clean energy and climate legislation in U.S. history."" ""President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act is a monumental law whose positive impacts will be felt for generations. The IRA is a historical investment in climate resilience, renewable energy, green jobs, and a green economy. Billions of dollars will be allocated for things like solar and wind, clean transportation, residential energy efficiency, creating equitable and prevailing wage jobs, and helping to reduce energy costs for all. The law goes even further by investing in programs to clean up legacy pollution, creating toxic free communities, and conserving and restoring coastal habitats, further mitigating climate change and protecting our communities,"" said Anjuli Ramos-Busot, NJ State Director for the Sierra Club. ""This is especially important and necessary when facing severe storms like Hurricane Ida. Now that the Anniversary of Hurricane Ida is here, we thank Congressman Pallone for his continuous support and commitment to mitigate climate change and protect New Jersey families."" KEY CLIMATE PROVISIONS FROM THE ENERGY AND COMMERCE COMMITTEE: The Inflation Reduction Act includes a number of key energy and environmental provisions originally authored by Pallone and other Committee members and passed out of the Committee in September 2021 following a three day markup. The provisions were then passed by the House of Representatives in November 2021. Following are some of the key provisions that passed out of the Committee. Methane Emissions Reduction Program: The Inflation Reduction Act establishes a Methane Emissions Reduction Program to control excess methane pollution from the oil and gas industry above specific waste emissions thresholds. The program builds on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) existing Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program, recognizes the cleanest performers, holds individual companies responsible for their own leaks and excess methane pollution, drives innovation in the sector, creates good-paying jobs, and supports projects to protect American communities from the effects of the climate crisis. Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $27 billion in nonprofit, state, and local climate finance institutions that support the rapid deployment of low- and zero-emission technologies, including solar and other distributed resources. These financing entities will build on the successful track record of similar programs across the United States, leveraging public and private investment to help communities reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions and other forms of air pollution. At least 40 percent of investments will be made in low-income and disadvantaged communities. Investing in Clean Energy Innovation and Communities: The Inflation Reduction Act invests more than $15 billion in multiple loan and grant programs at the Department of Energy (DOE) to support the development of innovative technologies and American manufacturing of zero emission transportation technologies. The legislation also provides the Secretary of Energy with the resources to enable more than $300 billion in investments in American energy, Tribal, and other communities, all while reducing electricity ratepayer costs. Climate Pollution Reduction Grants: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $5 billion through EPA for states, municipalities, and Indian Tribes to develop and implement plans to reduce climate pollution. The legislation provides $250 million to develop plans and directs the Agency to make planning grants to at least one recipient in each state. EPA will then competitively award $4.75 billion to implement the plans to reduce climate pollution. Electric Transmission: The Inflation Reduction Act invests almost $2.9 billion into creating a 21st Century energy grid capable of ensuring the reliable delivery of clean energy throughout the United States. The legislation funds grants to assist states with siting transmission projects, funds DOE's transmission planning and modeling capabilities, and will support approximately $20 billion in loans for constructing high priority transmission lines and grid infrastructure. These measures will reduce consumer costs, maintain the reliable delivery of electricity during extreme weather events, and are necessary to address the climate crisis. Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $1 billion in replacing certain heavy-duty vehicles, such as refuse trucks and school buses, with zero emission vehicles through a new grant program at the EPA. In addition to funding new clean vehicles, this program will provide funds for associated infrastructure and workforce development and training. Appliance and Building Efficiency Rebates: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $9 billion in home energy efficiency and appliance electrification rebates and ensures that low-income and underserved communities have access to these energy-saving upgrades. Buildings account for some 30 percent of greenhouse gas pollution in the United States. Reducing energy usage and electrifying appliances is crucial to tackling the climate crisis. Industrial Emissions Reductions: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $5.8 billion for installing and implementing advanced industrial technology at energy intensive industrial and manufacturing facilities. These critical investments in the hard to decarbonize industrial sector will drive large emissions reductions, while protecting jobs, competitiveness, and demonstrating the global leadership of U.S. industries. Environmental and Climate Justice Block Grants: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $3 billion to community-led projects that address environmental and public health harms related to pollution and climate change. This grant program provides direct funding to the communities most impacted by climate change and environmental injustice, funding local projects and solutions to decrease pollution and increase climate readiness. Healthy Ports: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $3 billion to reduce air pollution at ports and in the communities that surround them. Ports are vital economic lifelines in the United States, but also significant sources of pollution that contribute to climate change and threaten public health. These grants will support the purchase and installation of zero-emission equipment and technology, as well as the development of climate action plans, at ports. At least 25 percent of investments will be made at ports in nonattainment areas.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-plans-beach-replenishment-elberon,Pallone Announces Plans for Beach Replenishment in Elberon,2022-08-26,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Long Branch, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the Army Corps of Engineers will begin beach replenishment this fall in Elberon. Pallone met with the Army Corps in January to advocate for this project. The federal funding comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Pallone pushed for last year. The Army Corps will place 1.2 million cubic yards of sand from Takanassee Lake south in Elberon. Work is expected to begin in late November or early December. The Army Corps may also exercise an option to place 300,000 cubic yards of sand from Takanassee Lake north to Cedar Avenue in the West End section of Long Branch. There is also an additional option in Monmouth Beach that includes 1 million cubic yards from Central Road south to Valentine Street. ""Beach replenishment is critical to our beaches and communities along the Jersey Shore,"" Pallone said. ""Coastal restoration projects like beach replenishment ensure that our beaches and infrastructure remain resilient to bad weather events. I would like to thank the Army Corps of Engineers for their continued dedication to this important project in our state. Beach replenishment will make sure our beautiful beaches will remain safe and enjoyable for residents and tourists for years to come."" Pallone has been a longtime advocate for beach replenishment along the Jersey Shore. Following Superstorm Sandy, Congressman Pallone requested the Federal Emergency Management Agency allocate emergency funding to address immediate needs of impacted homeowners and businesses as well as repair breached dunes and damaged beaches to protect New Jersey's coastal areas from future flooding. As a result, most of the beaches from Sea Bright to Manasquan were filled, which was the largest beach replenishment project ever undertaken by the Army Corps.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/congresswoman-watson-coleman-releases-statement-on-president-bidens-student-loan-relief-plan,Congresswoman Watson Coleman Releases Statement on President Biden’s Student Loan Relief Plan,2022-08-24,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Vice Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus issued the following statement after President Biden announced that the federal government will provide historic student debt relief: “Since President Biden took office, my House colleagues and I have called on President Biden to deliver broad student debt relief to alleviate the millions of borrowers who have struggled under the burden of the high costs of education and outrageous interest rates. I’m proud that today President Biden has heeded those calls and delivered historic relief. “Cancelling up to $20,000 in student debt is life changing for millions of Americans including the 1 in 4 Black borrowers who would see their debt eliminated completely. Additionally, the capping of repayment of undergraduate loans at 5 percent of their monthly income and maintaining the moratorium on payments through the end of the year will help many as the economy continues its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. “Though more must be done to close the racial wealth gap – and I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to help borrowers still struggling to make payments – make no mistake, this is a historic win for hardworking Americans.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-south-amboy-will-receive-49-million-rebuild-infrastructure,Pallone Announces South Amboy will Receive $4.9 Million to Rebuild Infrastructure,2022-08-23,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"South Amboy, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. and Mayor Fred Henry today announced that South Amboy will receive $4.9 million to help rebuild the city's infrastructure. The federal funding comes from the American Rescue Plan that House Democrats passed and President Biden signed into law in 2021. The funds are distributed through the Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA). The city will use the funding to repair roads and sewers to bolster economic development and construct three industrial redevelopment projects, including the construction of two warehouse distribution centers. It is estimated that the funding will create 390 jobs and generate $1.1 million in private investment. ""I'm glad to see that South Amboy will receive $4.9 million from the American Rescue Plan to help the city rebuild its infrastructure and provide better services for residents. It's great to see the American Rescue Plan delivering for New Jersey and providing the federal funding our state needs to create jobs and make critical repairs to infrastructure,"" Pallone said. ""I'm grateful to Secretary Raimondo for her leadership as we work together to ensure equitable investment in our communities. I commend Mayor Henry for recognizing and capitalizing on good opportunities like this one that help make South Amboy a great place to live."" ""As we continue to reclaim former industrial sites along our waterfront to make them available for their best use, Congressman Pallone has been a tireless supporter of our efforts. This funding from the EDA would not have been possible without his advocacy and support,"" Mayor Fred Henry said. ""Through his ongoing efforts South Amboy and all of the waterfront communities in his district have made incredible progress toward flood resiliency, equity, and developing good paying sustainable job opportunities. We are grateful for his support.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-hosts-teletown-hall-over-3200-constituents,"Pallone Hosts Teletown Hall with Over 3,200 Constituents",2022-08-23,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Long Branch, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today hosted a telephone town hall with over 3,200 constituents in New Jersey's 6th Congressional District. This summer, Pallone has hosted four teletown halls with over 14,000 constituents. Last week, President Biden signed into law the Inflation Reduction Act that included provisions from Pallone's Energy and Commerce Committee to lower drug prices for seniors, reduce health care costs, and combat climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. The law also includes an unprecedented $2.6 billion to conserve and restore coastal habitats with living shoreline projects and protect coastal communities like the ones along the Jersey Shore. Pallone also spoke about the CHIPs and Science Act that will boost American semiconductor manufacturing and supply chains. ""Hearing directly from my constituents allows me to be a better advocate and legislator,"" Congressman Pallone said. ""In Congress, I helped pass the Inflation Reduction Act that lower prescription drug and health care costs, invest in clean energy jobs, lower energy costs, and create good-paying American jobs. I also provided an update on the funding my district will receive to repair and improve infrastructure in New Jersey. I'm grateful for everyone who joined me tonight to ask questions and share their concerns.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-ec-leaders-and-environmental-advocates-call-epa-equitably-distribute,"Pallone, E&C Leaders, and Environmental Advocates Call on EPA to Equitably Distribute Funding for Lead Service Line Replacement",2022-08-19,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20) today called on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan to ensure that the funding to replace lead services lines in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is equitably allocated to underserved communities, including those in New Jersey and New York. Environmental advocates in New Jersey also share their concern that funding from the law should be distributed equitably. Pallone and Tonko ensured enactment of key provisions in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for drinking water infrastructure, including $15 billion for the replacement of lead water lines and $10 billion to address PFAS contamination. In March, Pallone held a hearing in his Energy and Commerce Committee on upgrading water infrastructure and lead service lines. Funding to states to replace lead service lines is provided through the EPA's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (SRF). Distribution of funding is based on a formula through the Drinking Water SRF and will determine state allocations in the next round of funding. In a letter to the EPA Administrator, Pallone and Tonko requested that the agency complete their mandated assessment of replacement costs for lead service lines in its Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment and incorporate the results and demonstrated need into future funding allocations. ""Everyone deserves access to safe and clean drinking water. As Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, removing lead service lines has long been one of my top priorities. In my home state of New Jersey, too many families still receive water in their homes through lead water lines. I want to make sure that the funding Congress authorized in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for lead service line replacement will be equitably distributed to the states with the greatest need,"" said Pallone. ""The funding in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is set to provide a huge boost in our efforts to finally address the long-standing issue of lead in drinking water, but it requires equitable distribution. We shouldn't leave overburdened communities to face risks related to lead pipes for even longer."" ""We are enormously thankful for Congressman Pallone's leadership on the issue of lead in drinking water and his interest in equitably allocating federal funds to the states that need it most. New Jersey is generally considered to have one of the highest concentrations of lead service lines in the country,"" said Diane Schrauth, Policy Director, New Jersey Future. ""According to New Jersey Future's research, the proposed distribution of funds under the federal IIJA legislation would provide less than 10% (i.e., $241 million) of the state's projected need ($2.8 billion). By changing the future allocation to reflect the true need, Congress can ensure that children and families are protected from the damaging effects of lead poisoning."" ""The only fair and equitable way for the Biden Administration to advance its goal of removing every lead service line in the next decade is to deliver funding to the states that need the most help, and quickly. No longer can we afford to shortchange states with the most lead service lines,"" said Cyndi Roper, Senior Policy Advocate, Natural Resources Defense Council. ""As a resident of Newark, NJ, I am acutely aware families and children most at risk should receive help first. That is the approach that should be taken to get lead water pipes out of the ground; start with communities impacted the worst. Otherwise, low-income, environmental justice communities will be at the back of the line, again, before they can trust the water coming from their taps,"" said Yvette Jordan, Chair of the Newark Education Workers Caucus. ""It is critical to fix the funding allocation because states with a small number of lead service lines are getting as much as $10,000 per line, and states like Ohio, New Jersey, Michigan, and New York with the most lead service lines and the greatest need are getting as little as $109 per line. Recent increases in construction costs indicate that most lead service line replacements will cost more than $5,000 a piece,"" said Elin Warn Betanzo, Safe Water Engineering, LLC.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A82B02E8-8E3F-460F-B3D3-2C93C0E9B24A,"Rep. Norcross Hosts More Than 100 Federal, State, and Local Services at 5th Annual Constituent Services Fair",2022-08-18,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) hosted representatives from more than 100 federal, state, and local agencies and nonprofits at Camden County College in Blackwood, NJ, for his 5th Annual Constituent Services Fair. Nearly 1,000 constituents attended to learn about and receive help from programs ranging from Society Security to local rent assistance. “I’m honored to represent the families of South Jersey,” said Congressman Norcross. “This constituent services fair gives our community an opportunity to connect directly with the services they need and deserve. My team is always ready to help our neighbors, and it’s great when we can get them immediate assistance by having these agencies on site. I want to thank everyone who was able to make it today and all the agencies and nonprofits that participated. For those who were unable to attend today, my office is always here and ready to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out.” During the event, Congressman Norcross delivered remarks before a breakout session focused on connecting seniors with relevant programs and services at the federal and county level, including Social Security and Medicare. The congressman spoke about the importance of ensuring American seniors were able to live their golden years in dignity. When he announced the recent signing of the Inflation Reduction Act into law, which caps out-of-pocket costs for seniors, the audience broke out into applause. “How we treat our seniors speaks volumes about who we are as a county,” he said. Federal agencies that attended today’s Constituent Services Fair included the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the U.S. Small Business Administration, the U.S. Social Security Administration, and the U.S. Veterans Administration. Local agencies included the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, the Camden County Office of Economic Opportunity, and the Gloucester County Department of Health and Human Services.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-nonprofit-faith-organizations-new-jersey-will-receive-over-18,Pallone Announces Nonprofit Faith Organizations In New Jersey will Receive Over $18 Million for Security Enhancements,2022-08-17,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Long Branch, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced that New Jersey will receive a total of $18,915,000 in preparedness grants, including $13,192,649 for security enhancements at 91 nonprofits and faith organizations in the state. The funding is provided through the Department of Homeland Security's Nonprofit Security Grant Program's (NSGP) Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) that supports physical security enhancements and coordination activities for nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of a terrorist attack. Nonprofits in New Jersey's 6th Congressional District will receive over $2 million. ""These grants will help houses of worship throughout the state protect their members and will give our local communities the resources they need for security coordination,"" Pallone said. ""The United States was founded on the principles of freedom and equality for all, which is why we must protect our constituents from religious violence and other acts of terrorism that have proliferated in recent years, whether they are at home, work, or in their community.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-hosts-teletown-hall-constituents-monmouth-county,Pallone Hosts Teletown Hall with Constituents in Monmouth County,2022-08-15,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Long Branch, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today hosted a telephone town hall with over 3,600 constituents in New Jersey's 6th Congressional District. Last week, the House passed the Inflation Reduction Act that included provisions from Pallone's Energy and Commerce Committee to lower drug prices for seniors, reduce health care costs, and combat climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. It also includes an unprecedented $2.6 billion to conserve and restore coastal habitats with living shoreline projects and protect coastal communities like the ones along the Jersey Shore. Pallone also spoke about the CHIPs and Science Act that will boost American semiconductor manufacturing and supply chains. ""Hearing directly from my constituents allows me to be a better advocate and legislator,"" Congressman Pallone said. ""In Congress, I'm leading the way to lower prescription drug and health care costs, invest in clean energy jobs, lower energy costs, and create good-paying American jobs. I also provided an update on the funding my district will receive to repair and improve infrastructure in Monmouth County. I'm grateful for everyone who joined me tonight to ask questions and share their concerns.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=5A9E63F2-948A-4476-A65F-42C79ADB181A,Rep. Norcross Votes for Inflation Reduction Act,2022-08-12,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,norcross,https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases,page_html,"Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) voted to pass the Inflation Reduction Act. This legislation will help lower costs for working people by reigning in health care and prescription drug costs, investing in American manufacturing to bolster the production of clean energy, and ensuring billion-dollar corporations pay their fair share in taxes. The savings achieved in these areas will also decrease the national debt by $300 billion over the next decade. “The Inflation Reduction Act is a job creator first and foremost,” said Congressman Norcross. “Investing in clean energy by manufacturing solar panels, offshore wind components, and batteries domestically means our energy future is going to be made in America. I’m proud to report that my offshore wind incentives are included in this bill, which will help grow South Jersey’s offshore wind industry. That means good-paying jobs and reducing our dependence on oil and gas from places like Russia. The Inflation Reduction Act includes an approximately $370 billion investment in climate change – by far the single biggest climate investment in U.S. history. The investment will reduce the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030. “This bill will reduce prescription drug costs for our seniors by allowing Medicare to negotiate drug pricing,” continued Congressman Norcross. “It will lower health care costs and level the playing field for working people in New Jersey by making sure billion-dollar corporations pay their fair share in taxes, just like the rest of us.” The Inflation Reduction Act will make life more affordable, including by:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-helps-secure-inclusion-superfund-tax-oil-and-petroleum-companies,Pallone Helps Secure Inclusion of Superfund Tax on Oil and Petroleum Companies in Inflation Reduction Act,2022-08-12,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) applauded the inclusion of the Superfund tax on oil and petroleum companies in the Inflation Reduction Act. The reinstatement of the tax is effective January 1, 2023. The tax is expected to raise $11.7 billion. Pallone has long advocated for reinstating the tax on these companies to ensure polluters, not taxpayers, foot the bill for cleaning up waste and pollution. In July, the Superfund tax was reinstated on chemical companies thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Pallone has long fought to reinstate the full Superfund taxes on corporate polluters that expired in 1995. Earlier this year, he reintroduced the Superfund Polluter Pays Act, legislation to reinstate the full Superfund taxes, including taxes on crude oil and petroleum products. ""Today marks a historic day in our campaign to clean up Superfund sites. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, American taxpayers will not have to pay for the mistakes of corporate polluters,"" Pallone said. ""I'm pleased that the tax on oil and petroleum companies will now be reinstated. With this new funding source, the Environmental Protection Agency will be able to tackle more cleanups and address cleanup backlogs years in the making. Taxpayers are tired of footing the bill for cleanups, and I'll continue to fight to ensure that we hold the corporations responsible for polluting our communities accountable.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-praises-house-passage-historic-climate-health-care-provisions-inflation,Pallone Praises House Passage of the Historic Climate & Health Care Provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act,2022-08-12,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) released the following statement today praising House passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, which includes key climate and health care provisions he originally authored or advanced through his Energy and Commerce Committee over the last couple of years. Pallone spoke in favor of the bill today on the House Floor. ""Today, the House took historic action to tackle the climate crisis and protect our communities from its devastating impacts. The Inflation Reduction Act is the single-largest investment in climate action in American history that will also create new clean jobs and lower energy costs for American families. ""It includes many provisions from my Energy and Commerce Committee that will drive down dangerous methane pollution, deploy low- and zero-emission technologies nationwide, and reduce energy usage through home energy efficiency upgrades. The legislation makes unparalleled investments in climate, clean energy, and environmental justice that put us on track to meet our aggressive climate goals. It also includes an unprecedented $2.6 billion to conserve and restore coastal habitats with living shoreline projects and protect coastal communities like the ones along the Jersey Shore. ""The Inflation Reduction Act is also one of the most significant pieces of health care legislation in over a decade. It breaks Big Pharma's monopoly on prescription drug prices by finally empowering Medicare to negotiate lower prices, capping the amount seniors pay at $2,000 annually, and penalizing companies that unfairly hike prices faster than inflation by requiring them to pay a rebate to Medicare. This legislation finally levels the playing field to ensure seniors are no longer forced to choose between putting food on their table and their lifesaving prescription drugs. ""The legislation will dramatically lower the cost of monthly health insurance premiums for millions of Americans. Five million Americans have gained access to health care coverage over the last two years thanks to Democrats' efforts to make it more affordable, and I'm pleased that this legislation will extend those efforts for three more years. ""I'm thrilled that we are finally taking aggressive action to combat the worsening climate crisis and lowering energy and health care costs for the American people. This legislation lays the foundation for a cleaner, more prosperous future for us all, and I look forward to the President signing it into law soon."" KEY CLIMATE PROVISIONS FROM THE ENERGY AND COMMERCE COMMITTEE: The Inflation Reduction Act includes a number of key energy and environmental provisions originally authored by Pallone and other Committee members and passed out of the Committee in September 2021 following a three day markup. The provisions were then passed by the House of Representatives in November 2021. Following are some of the key provisions that passed out of the Committee. Methane Emissions Reduction Program: The Inflation Reduction Act establishes a Methane Emissions Reduction Program to control excess methane pollution from the oil and gas industry above specific waste emissions thresholds. The program builds on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) existing Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program, recognizes the cleanest performers, holds individual companies responsible for their own leaks and excess methane pollution, drives innovation in the sector, creates good-paying jobs, and supports projects to protect American communities from the effects of the climate crisis. Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $27 billion in nonprofit, state, and local climate finance institutions that support the rapid deployment of low- and zero-emission technologies, including solar and other distributed resources. These financing entities will build on the successful track record of similar programs across the United States, leveraging public and private investment to help communities reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions and other forms of air pollution. At least 40 percent of investments will be made in low-income and disadvantaged communities. Investing in Clean Energy Innovation and Communities: The Inflation Reduction Act invests more than $15 billion in multiple loan and grant programs at the Department of Energy (DOE) to support the development of innovative technologies and American manufacturing of zero emission transportation technologies. The legislation also provides the Secretary of Energy with the resources to enable more than $300 billion in investments in American energy, Tribal, and other communities, all while reducing electricity ratepayer costs. Climate Pollution Reduction Grants: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $5 billion through EPA for states, municipalities, and Indian Tribes to develop and implement plans to reduce climate pollution. The legislation provides $250 million to develop plans and directs the Agency to make planning grants to at least one recipient in each state. EPA will then competitively award $4.75 billion to implement the plans to reduce climate pollution. Electric Transmission: The Inflation Reduction Act invests almost $2.9 billion into creating a 21st Century energy grid capable of ensuring the reliable delivery of clean energy throughout the United States. The legislation funds grants to assist states with siting transmission projects, funds DOE's transmission planning and modeling capabilities, and will support approximately $20 billion in loans for constructing high priority transmission lines and grid infrastructure. These measures will reduce consumer costs, maintain the reliable delivery of electricity during extreme weather events, and are necessary to address the climate crisis. Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $1 billion in replacing certain heavy-duty vehicles, such as refuse trucks and school buses, with zero emission vehicles through a new grant program at the EPA. In addition to funding new clean vehicles, this program will provide funds for associated infrastructure and workforce development and training. Appliance and Building Efficiency Rebates: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $9 billion in home energy efficiency and appliance electrification rebates and ensures that low-income and underserved communities have access to these energy-saving upgrades. Buildings account for some 30 percent of greenhouse gas pollution in the United States. Reducing energy usage and electrifying appliances is crucial to tackling the climate crisis. Industrial Emissions Reductions: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $5.8 billion for installing and implementing advanced industrial technology at energy intensive industrial and manufacturing facilities. These critical investments in the hard to decarbonize industrial sector will drive large emissions reductions, while protecting jobs, competitiveness, and demonstrating the global leadership of U.S. industries. Environmental and Climate Justice Block Grants: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $3 billion to community-led projects that address environmental and public health harms related to pollution and climate change. This grant program provides direct funding to the communities most impacted by climate change and environmental injustice, funding local projects and solutions to decrease pollution and increase climate readiness. Healthy Ports: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $3 billion to reduce air pollution at ports and in the communities that surround them. Ports are vital economic lifelines in the United States, but also significant sources of pollution that contribute to climate change and threaten public health. These grants will support the purchase and installation of zero-emission equipment and technology, as well as the development of climate action plans, at ports. At least 25 percent of investments will be made at ports in nonattainment areas. KEY HEALTH CARE PROVISIONS ORIGINALLY AUTHORED BY PALLONE & OTHER HEALTH COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN: The Inflation Reduction Act includes a number of key provisions that were originally authored and introduced by Pallone and other health leaders in the House before being passed in the House of Representatives last November. Lowering Prescription Drug Costs for Americans: The Inflation Reduction Act will rein in the soaring cost of prescription drugs and cap out-of-pocket costs for millions of seniors. Many of the key provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act to lower prescription drugs costs were first proposed by Pallone, Ways and Means Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA), and Education and Labor Chairman Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott (D-VA) in H.R. 3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now, which was introduced in September 2019. The comprehensive bill empowered Medicare to negotiate the cost of prescription drugs and imposed an inflation rebate on pharmaceutical manufacturers that unfairly raised prices on consumers. H.R. 3 also capped seniors' out-of-pocket costs on Medicare Part D prescription drugs at $2,000 annually. The House of Representatives passed H.R. 3 in December 2019, but the Senate did not act on the bill. Expanding Affordable Care Act (ACA) & Lowering Health Care Costs:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-votes-for-historic-inflation-reduction-act-to-lower-new-jerseyans-costs,Rep. Watson Coleman Votes for Historic Inflation Reduction Act to Lower New Jerseyans' Costs,2022-08-12,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) voted to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, a comprehensive budget reconciliation package that will create jobs, fight climate change, and cut kitchen-table costs for working families. Already passed by the Senate, the bill now heads to the President’s desk. “Among other things, the Inflation Reduction Act will relieve the pain of rising prices, hold corporations and billionaires accountable, and make our nation’s largest-ever investment in tackling the climate crisis,” said Rep. Watson Coleman. “I couldn’t have been more proud to vote for this legislation, which reflects a historic investment in American workers, families, and our future.” The Inflation Reduction Act will cut costs for the middle and working class without raising taxes on small businesses or families whose income totals $400,000 or less. Instead, it will rely on raising taxes on corporations and the wealthy to rates approaching levels set before the 2017 Donald Trump Tax Scam. The legislation’s other provisions address many of the Congresswoman’s progressive priorities, including advancing environmental justice, protecting access to affordable health care, and allowing Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices. “Since President Biden’s first days in office, I’ve fought alongside my colleagues in the Congressional Progressive Caucus to realize our shared vision of an America that works for the working class. The Inflation Reduction Act, which includes key elements of the Build Back Better Act, is a step toward achieving that goal,” said Rep. Watson Coleman. “Had the Progressive Caucus not tirelessly fought to enact the President’s agenda, we would not be here today.” “While the passage of this legislation is without question a victory for Americans, they nonetheless deserve more from their government,” said Watson Coleman. “We will not stop fighting for the pieces left on the cutting room floor — universal childcare, pre-K, housing, immigration justice, and Medicare expansion. It is our duty as public servants to ensure that every single American can afford their most basic needs, and to that end, much work remains to be done. The American Dream remains a dream for far too many, and I will not rest until every American has the freedom to thrive.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-holds-press-conference-bill-lower-prescription-drug-and-health-care,Pallone Holds Press Conference on Bill to Lower Prescription Drug and Health Care Costs,2022-08-11,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Woodbridge, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) held a press conference today in Woodbridge with local elected leaders and health care advocates on the Inflation Reduction Act. The bill will lower prescription drug costs for seniors by finally empowering Medicare to negotiate the cost of prescription drugs, capping the amount seniors pay at $2,000 annually, and capping the amount seniors pay for insulin at $35 per month. It requires drug manufacturers to pay a rebate to Medicare if they increase their prices faster than the rate of inflation. It will also dramatically lower the cost of monthly health insurance premiums for millions of Americans by extending Affordable Care Act Marketplace subsidies through the end of 2025. ""The Inflation Reduction Act is one of the most significant pieces of health care legislation to move through Congress in over a decade. It finally breaks Big Pharma's monopoly on prescription drug prices. No one should have to choose between paying for lifesaving medications or food and rent,"" said Pallone. ""Importantly, it will help ensure seniors are no longer ripped off at the pharmacy counter by capping both their annual out-of-pocket drug spending as well as how much they can be charged for insulin. It also penalizes Big Pharma companies for unfairly hiking prices on seniors. ""The Inflation Reduction Act will also dramatically lower the cost of monthly health insurance premiums for millions of Americans and provide families with the peace of mind that comes with knowing they have high-quality health care coverage. Five million Americans have gained access to health care coverage over the last two years thanks to Democrats' efforts to make it more affordable. I'm grateful to everyone who joined us today, and I'm looking forward to casting my vote in support of this bill."" ""Woodbridge Township stands in partnership with Congressman Frank Pallone's leadership in moving passage of the long-awaited Inflation Reduction Act which will transform health care benefits for not only the Senior residents of Woodbridge, but Senior residents across the nation. Our Senior residents will benefit from the act as it is geared to lower prescription drug costs for our Seniors by finally empowering Medicare to negotiate the cost of prescription drugs and capping the amount Seniors pay at $2,000 annually. It will also dramatically lower the cost of monthly health insurance premiums for Woodbridge Township residents by extending Affordable Care Act Marketplace subsidies through the end of 2025,"" said Mayor John E. McCormac. ""We are extremely proud to have served as the host community for the Congressman's announcement with more than one-hundred Senior members of the Evergreen Senior Center in attendance. ""This moment is the culmination of years of work by Chairman Pallone and Democrats in Congress. Without the leadership of Chairman Pallone this bill would not be on the House floor tomorrow. All of us owe him a debt of gratitude. The Inflation Reduction Act will be a game-changer for millions of people: Medicare will have the power to negotiate for lower drug prices, seniors will no longer have to choose between paying the bills and affording lifesaving prescriptions, middle class families will save on their health insurance premiums and be able afford care, and many will have health insurance for the first time,"" said Leslie Dach, Founder and Chair of Protect Our Care. ""And all of this at a time when Americans are looking for relief from rising prices. By passing the Inflation Reduction Act, Democrats are demonstrating their commitment to ensuring that affordable, accessible, and equitable health care is a reality for every American."" ""On behalf of our 1.2 million Garden State members and all older New Jersey residents, AARP New Jersey applauds Chairman Pallone for his unwavering leadership and dedication to championing legislation that will finally deliver real prescription drug price relief for millions of older Americans,"" said Evelyn Liebman, AARP New Jersey Director of Advocacy. ""This legislation will help bring down costs for seniors and families, helping them afford the medicines they need to stay healthy. We have been working for nearly two decades to allow Medicare to negotiate the price it pays for medications. We can't overstate what a monumental improvement this prescription drug package will be for older Americans struggling to afford their medications. We are now urging the House to move quickly and enact this momentous reform."" ""With the current levels of the cost of living and income inequality, the healthcare reforms in the Inflation Reduction Act will bring much-needed savings to New Jerseyans,"" said Laura Waddell, Health Care Program Director at NJ Citizen Action. ""Allowing Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices means families won't have to choose between groceries or medicine. Extending the ACA insurance premium subsidies will help solidify the recent strides we've made in health coverage and keep it affordable for millions of Americans. Thank you to Congressman Pallone and the rest of the New Jersey Democratic Congressional Delegation for fighting for these important and historic policies."" The Inflation Reduction Act includes a number of key provisions that were originally authored and introduced by Pallone, who is the Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, and other health leaders in the House before being passed in the House of Representatives last November. Lowering Prescription Drug Costs for Americans: The Inflation Reduction Act will rein in the soaring cost of prescription drugs and cap out-of-pocket costs for millions of seniors. Many of the key provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act to lower prescription drugs costs were first proposed by Pallone, Ways and Means Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA), and Education and Labor Chairman Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott (D-VA) in H.R. 3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now, which was introduced in September 2019. Expanding Affordable Care Act (ACA) & Lowering Health Care Costs:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-hosts-teletown-hall-constituents-middlesex-county,Pallone Hosts Teletown Hall with Constituents in Middlesex County,2022-08-09,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Long Branch, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today hosted a telephone town hall with over 3,700 constituents in New Jersey's 6th Congressional District. Pallone spoke about his efforts to lower drug prices for seniors, combat climate change and greenhouse gas emissions, and boost American semiconductor manufacturing and supply chains. ""Hearing directly from my constituents allows me to be a better advocate and legislator,"" Congressman Pallone said. ""In Congress, I'm leading the way to lower prescription drug and health care costs, invest in clean energy jobs, lower energy costs, and create good-paying American jobs. I also provided an update on the funding my district will receive to repair and improve infrastructure in Middlesex County. I'm grateful for everyone who joined me tonight to ask questions and share their concerns.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-signing-chips-and-science-act-law,Pallone on Signing of the CHIPS and Science Act into Law,2022-08-09,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) issued the following statement after President Biden signed H.R. 4346, the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, into law, which passed the House last month. The bill will bolster semiconductor manufacturing, boost resilience in U.S. supply chains, create good-paying American jobs, and lower costs for families in the United States. New Jersey could benefit from this investment in chip manufacturing, especially the New Jersey Innovation and Technology Hub in New Brunswick. ""By signing the CHIPS and Science Act into law today, President Biden is lowering costs for consumers, creating 100,000 good paying American jobs, and ending our dangerous dependence on foreign manufacturers of critical goods. It's a pleasure to join him today for this bill signing, which was a priority of the Democratic Congress. ""Over the past three decades, America's share of semiconductor production has plummeted, jeopardizing both our national security and economic welfare. This new law appropriates over $52 billion to ensure more semiconductors are produced right here in the United States – ending our reliance on other countries and lowering costs for consumers for automobiles, consumer electronics, home appliances, and other goods. My home state of New Jersey has a well-known reputation for research and manufacturing. There's simply no reason why we can't invest in American workers, innovation, and manufacturing. ""This legislation invests $1.5 billion in the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund for the deployment and promotion of Open Radio Access Network, or Open RAN, 5G networks. This investment will help bring diversity and innovation to wireless supply chains while also countering the spread of harmful network equipment from companies backed by adversaries like Communist China-backed Huawei.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-applauds-senate-passage-historic-climate-clean-energy-provisions,Pallone Applauds Senate Passage of Historic Climate & Clean Energy Provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act,2022-08-07,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,NJ,"Frank Pallone, Jr.",P000034,pallone.house.gov,pallone,https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) released the following statement today applauding Senate passage of historic clean energy and climate provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act, which are expected to slash our nation's greenhouse gas pollution by 40 percent by 2030: ""With Senate passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, we are one step closer to a historic milestone in tackling the climate crisis and protecting our communities from its impacts. This bill is the single-largest investment in climate action in American history. It makes unparalleled investments in climate, clean energy, and environmental justice, while creating new clean jobs and lowering energy costs for American families. Moreover, this bill will slash our nation's climate pollution 40 percent by 2030 and put us on track to meet our aggressive climate goals. ""I'm pleased the Inflation Reduction Act includes many of the climate and clean energy provisions that my Energy and Commerce Committee drafted and marked-up last September. Notably, the Methane Emissions Reduction Program takes bold action to drive down dangerous methane pollution from the oil and gas industry by spurring innovation and holding polluters accountable for leaks of one of the most potent greenhouse gases. The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund invests an unprecedented $27 billion to deploy low- and zero-emission technologies nationwide and harden our most vulnerable communities against climate disasters. These and other key provisions – such as commonsense investments in clean heavy-duty vehicles and home energy efficiency upgrades – make this bill one of the greatest victories for protecting the health of our climate and our communities. ""Today marks a breakthrough in our response to the climate crisis and lays the foundation for a cleaner, more prosperous future for us all. I look forward to supporting the Inflation Reduction Act in the House and seeing this historic legislation become law."" The Inflation Reduction Act includes a number of key energy and environmental provisions originally authored by Pallone and other Committee members and passed out of the Committee in September 2020 following a three day markup. The provisions were then passed by the House of Representatives in November 2020. Following are some of the key provisions that passed out of the Committee. Methane Emissions Reduction Program: The Inflation Reduction Act establishes a Methane Emissions Reduction Program to control excess methane pollution from the oil and gas industry above specific waste emissions thresholds. The program builds on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) existing Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program, recognizes the cleanest performers, holds individual companies responsible for their own leaks and excess methane pollution, drives innovation in the sector, creates good-paying jobs, and supports projects to protect American communities from the effects of the climate crisis. Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $27 billion in nonprofit, state, and local climate finance institutions that support the rapid deployment of low- and zero-emission technologies, including solar and other distributed resources. These financing entities will build on the successful track record of similar programs across the United States, leveraging public and private investment to help communities reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions and other forms of air pollution. At least 40 percent of investments will be made in low-income and disadvantaged communities. Investing in Clean Energy Innovation and Communities: The Inflation Reduction Act invests more than $15 billion in multiple loan and grant programs at the Department of Energy (DOE) to support the development of innovative technologies and American manufacturing of zero emission transportation technologies. he legislation also provides the Secretary of Energy with the resources to enable more than $300 billion in investments in American energy, Tribal, and other communities, all while reducing electricity ratepayer costs. Climate Pollution Reduction Grants: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $5 billion through EPA for states, municipalities, and Indian Tribes to develop and implement plans to reduce climate pollution. The legislation provides $250 million to develop plans and directs the Agency to make planning grants to at least one recipient in each state. EPA will then competitively award $4.75 billion to implement the plans to reduce climate pollution. Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $1 billion in replacing certain heavy-duty vehicles, such as refuse trucks and school buses, with zero emission vehicles through a new grant program at the EPA. In addition to funding new clean vehicles, this program will provide funds for associated infrastructure and workforce development and training. Appliance and Building Efficiency Rebates: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $9 billion in home energy efficiency and appliance electrification rebates and ensures that low-income and underserved communities have access to these energy-saving upgrades. Buildings account for some 30 percent of greenhouse gas pollution in the United States. Reducing energy usage and electrifying appliances is crucial to tackling the climate crisis. Industrial Emissions Reductions: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $5.8 billion for installing and implementing advanced industrial technology at energy intensive industrial and manufacturing facilities. These critical investments in the hard to decarbonize industrial sector will drive large emissions reductions, while protecting jobs, competitiveness, and demonstrating the global leadership of U.S. industries. Environmental and Climate Justice Block Grants: The Inflation Reduction Act invests $3 billion to community-led projects that address environmental and public health harms related to pollution and climate change. This grant program provides direct funding to the communities most impacted by climate change and environmental injustice, funding local projects and solutions to decrease pollution and increase climate readiness. Healthy Ports:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z