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://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-blasts-trump-s-latest-attack-on-rhode-island-offshore-wind,Amo Blasts Trump’s Latest Attack on Rhode Island Offshore Wind,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,“Trump’s attacks on Revolution Wind are not based on science and facts. The Administration is putting forward disingenuous arguments about ‘national security’ to try to kill this project simply because Donald Trump doesn’t like offshore wind. I will keep fighting to make sure this project is completed. We must deliver more affordable energy and a greener future for all Rhode Islanders.”,1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-statement-trump-administration-suspension-revolution-wind-project,Magaziner Statement on Trump Administration Suspension of Revolution Wind Project,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WARWICK, RI – Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02), a member of the House Natural Resources Committee, issued the following statement after the Trump Administration announced it would suspend several offshore wind projects, including the Revolution Wind project off the coast of Rhode Island which is over 85% complete.

“At a time when working people in Rhode Island are struggling with high costs on everything, Trump should not be canceling energy projects that are nearly ready to deliver reliable power to the grid at below-market rates and help lower costs.

Claims that the Revolution Wind Project or other offshore wind projects pose national security concerns are unfounded. The Department of Defense thoroughly reviewed and signed off on this project during the permitting and approval process.

This is just another example of the Trump Administration needlessly driving up costs for working people.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-legislation-signed-into-law-to-strengthen-diplomatic-relationships-and-support-ri-businesses,Amo Legislation Signed Into Law to Strengthen Diplomatic Relationships and Support RI Businesses,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – YESTERDAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) had two bills signed into law as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Congressman Amo led the AUKUS (Australia, United Kingdom, United States) Improvement Act and the Promoting Diplomacy with Australia Act to strengthen American diplomatic relations with allies, support Rhode Island businesses, and enhance our national security.

“I’m proud to see my legislation signed into law to streamline defense production, support Rhode Island trade, and better counter rising threats in the Indo-Pacific,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “I’m grateful to secure these wins for Rhode Island, working across the aisle to strengthen relationships with one of our most steadfast democratic allies and support our state's manufacturing sector. In our rapidly changing world, it’s critical to foster diplomatic, trade, and defense collaboration with our allies to keep Rhode Islanders and all Americans safe.”

Background

Congressman Amo secured the inclusion of two pieces of legislation in the 2026 NDAA. However, due to the inclusion of language that does not reflect the longstanding tradition of protecting our national defense in a nonpartisan manner, Congressman Amo voted against House passage of the NDAA.

In August 2025, Amo introduced H.R. 5013, the bipartisan, bicameral AUKUS Improvement Act. The legislation will make it easier for manufacturers to collaborate on defense production with our allies in the AUKUS tripartite agreement. Rhode Island’s First Congressional District is home to numerous manufacturers producing defense materials for the AUKUS partnership, including submarines and autonomous naval vessels.

Amo introduced H.R. 6123, the Promoting Diplomacy with Australia Act, in November 2025. The legislation would require reporting to ensure American diplomats in Australia have the resources they need to promote American political, economic, and national security interests.

These are the second and third bills led by Amo that have been signed into law. On January 4, 2025, President Joe Biden signed H.R. 10339, the Southern New England Regional Commission Act into law as part of the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/following-magaziners-advocacy-dhs-releases-wife-combat-veteran-ice-detention,"Following Magaziner’s Advocacy, DHS Releases Wife of Combat Veteran from ICE Detention",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Today U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) applauded the news that Donna Hughes-Brown, a legal U.S. resident and the wife of U.S. Navy combat veteran Jim Brown of Missouri has been released from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention. Mrs. Hughes-Brown was immediately released after winning her cancellation of removal hearing on December 18, 2025, ending the deportation proceedings against her.

Last week, Rep. Magaziner invited Jim Brown to attend a House Homeland Security Committee hearing with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem. During the hearing, Magaziner questioned Secretary Noem directly about Mrs. Hughes-Brown’s detention and secured a commitment from her to review her case.

You can watch the exchange between Jim Brown and Secretary Noem here.

“The Trump Administration claimed it would target the ‘worst of the worst,’ but no one understands how false that promise was more than Jim and Donna Brown,” said Magaziner. “Jim Brown served our country in combat, and his family deserved better than months of unnecessary separation. This patriotic couple are now reunited just before Christmas. I will continue fighting this Administration over their unjust detentions and work to reunite more innocent families targeted by Trump’s DHS.”

Mr. Brown is a U.S. Navy and Gulf War combat veteran. His wife, Donna Hughes-Brown, is a grandmother and Blue Star military mother who has lived legally in the United States for 47 years. She was detained in Chicago, and imprisoned for months, after returning from a family visit to her native Ireland due to writing two bad checks totaling no more than $80 combined more than a decade ago.

During the hearing, Magaziner asked Secretary Noem to use her broad discretion as Secretary to review Mrs. Hughes-Brown’s case, underscoring the injustice of detaining veteran families and longtime U.S. residents with deep family and community ties over minor, long-resolved offenses.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-statement-death-brown-university-shooting-suspect,Magaziner Statement on Death of Brown University Shooting Suspect,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC - Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) released the following statement in response to reports that the suspected gunman in the Brown University shooting was found dead:

“I want to express gratitude to all of the members of law enforcement who worked tirelessly to locate the now-deceased suspect in the Brown University shooting.

While Brown and Rhode Island will never be the same, I hope that this new development can bring closure and help the process of healing.

My heart continues to go out to the victims and their families. They will be in our hearts always.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-expresses-relief-in-resolution-of-brown-university-shooter-manhunt,Amo Expresses Relief in Resolution of Brown University Shooter Manhunt,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"""I hope Rhode Islanders can find a measure of relief now that the perpetrator of the tragic Brown University shooting is deceased.

Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov should be here today. My thoughts are with their families, the survivors of the shooting, and the entire Brown community tonight.

Thank you to Rhode Islanders for supporting one another during this difficult time. And thank you to officials at every level, especially our law enforcement officers, who dedicated an immense amount of time, effort, and thoughtfulness to bring about this outcome.

As our community begins to heal, we must stand together, support one another, and work to create a safer future for all Rhode Islanders.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziners-statement-antisemitic-mass-shooting-sydney,Magaziner’s Statement on Antisemitic Mass Shooting in Sydney,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) today released the following statement in response to the antisemitic mass shooting terrorist attack at a Jewish holiday celebration in Sydney, Australia:

“Today, we woke up to news of another mass shooting, this one targeting Jews in Australia. This tragic event is a reminder that violent antisemitism continues to be a pressing global problem. May the memories of the victims be a blessing.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziners-statement-shooting-brown-university,Magaziner’s Statement on Shooting at Brown University,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02), a 2006 graduate of Brown University, today released the following statement after the shooting on Brown University’s campus:

“I am deeply saddened by the shooting that occurred today on Brown University’s campus and am praying for the victims and their families. It is devastating that this tragedy struck so close to home today, targeting innocent members of the Brown Community as they prepared to head home for the holidays.

I am grateful to the law enforcement and first responders who courageously responded to the scene and continue to work to find the shooter. I am in close contact with university and local officials to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of students and nearby residents. I urge everyone in the area to follow guidance from local law enforcement.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-statement-on-ongoing-investigation-into-the-brown-university-shooting,Amo Statement on Ongoing Investigation into the Brown University Shooting,2025-12-14,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Brown University, Providence, and our entire state are continuing to reel from yesterday’s tragic shooting. My thoughts remain with the families and loved ones of the two students killed, those recovering at Rhode Island Hospital, and those impacted in our wider community.

I am thankful that through the prompt action of law enforcement, a person of interest is in custody. Anyone with information regarding the shooting should submit it to the FBI tip website as investigators continue to build their case.

We have a long journey ahead. Resources are available, and my team and I stand ready to provide any and all possible federal support as the investigation continues.

As we begin to heal, we must stand together, support those affected, and strive towards a safe, secure community for all.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-statement-on-shooting-at-brown-university,Amo Statement on Shooting at Brown University,2025-12-13,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"My thoughts are with the Brown University and Providence communities, and our extended Rhode Island family tonight. The loss of two lives is an unimaginable tragedy for their families. I am praying for the swift recovery of the victims that are currently hospitalized.

Thank you to law enforcement, first responders, and medical professionals who arrived to the scene so quickly. I wish them safety as they work to apprehend whomever is responsible for this shooting.

This is an active, evolving situation, so if you are on campus or in the neighborhoods nearby continue to shelter in place and follow instructions from local authorities. If you have information or security camera footage, call 911.

The scourge of mass shootings is a horrific stain on our nation. We must seek policies to ensure that these tragedies do not strike yet another community and no more lives are needlessly taken from us.

There are difficult days ahead, but we are stronger when we look out for one another.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-secures-wins-for-rhode-island-in-annual-defense-bill-despite-legislation-falling-short-in-maintaining-bipartisanship,"Amo Secures Wins for Rhode Island in Annual Defense Bill, Despite Legislation Falling Short in Maintaining Bipartisanship",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) secured the passage of two bills through the House in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Congressman Amo’s bills, the AUKUS (Australia, United Kingdom, United States) Improvement Act andthe Promoting Diplomacy with Australia Act would strengthen our national security and diplomatic relations with long-time allies while supporting trade collaboration for Rhode Island businesses.

However, due to the inclusion of language that does not reflect the longstanding tradition of protecting our national defense in a nonpartisan manner, Congressman Amo voted against the NDAA.

“This year’s National Defense Authorization Act missed the mark by including partisan provisions, though it included important wins for Rhode Island,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “I am glad that my bills to strengthen our alliances and uplift Rhode Island manufacturing were included, and I welcome the pay raise for troops, increased access to child care, and plans to improve facilities at Naval Station Newport. But we can and must do better to live up to our values and I look forward to improving the process of authorizing our defense and diplomatic enterprise, so it works for all Rhode Islanders in coming years.”

Among the other wins, this year’s legislation increases oversight by restricting funding for the Secretary of Defense’s travel until the full, unredacted videos of all strikes that have occurred in Latin America are given to the full Congress, strengthens our support of democracy by continuing our support for Ukraine and Taiwan, and authorizes $20 billion in shipbuilding funding.

However, the NDAA included problematic provisions the Congressman could not support including expanding the Department of Defense’s ability to support Customs and Border Patrol in immigration crackdowns and failing to restore collective bargaining rights for the Department of Defense’s civilian workforce, among others.

Background

Congressman Amo secured the inclusion of two pieces of legislation in the 2026 NDAA.

In August 2025, Amo introduced H.R. 5013, the bipartisan, bicameral AUKUS Improvement Act. The legislation will make it easier for manufacturers to collaborate on defense production with our allies in the AUKUS tripartite agreement. Rhode Island’s First Congressional District is home to numerous manufacturers producing defense materials for the AUKUS partnership, including submarines and autonomous naval vessels.

Amo introduced H.R. 6123, the Promoting Diplomacy with Australia Act, in November 2025. The legislation would require reporting to ensure American diplomats in Australia have the resources they need to promote American political, economic, and national security interests.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-hosts-federal-security-funding-forum-with-rhode-island-s-nonprofit-and-faith-based-organizations,Amo Hosts Federal Security Funding Forum with Rhode Island’s Nonprofit and Faith-Based Organizations,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) led a conversation about opportunities for faith-based and nonprofit organizations to apply for security funding through the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP).

“Everyone should be able to gather, worship, and learn in safety. That’s why it’s so important that we make sure groups apply to the Nonprofit Security Grant Program,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “It was great to see representatives from so many Rhode Island nonprofit organizations come out to learn more about the program and how they can access federal funding. I’m going to keep fighting to stop Trump from cutting this program and make sure resources are available to protect our faith-based and nonprofits so all Rhode Islanders and Americans can live free of the fear of violence.”

Congressman Amo has consistently advocated for the essential security program. He co-led a letter of more than 78 House Democrats calling on the Trump administration to stop the pause in drawdown funding for the program and led a bipartisan effort supported by over 130 Members of Congress requesting $500 million for the NSGP for Fiscal Year 2026. The briefing was hosted by the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island and attended by representatives from the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIMA), refugee advocacy groups, charitable organizations serving vulnerable populations, and faith-based groups, as well as state and local leaders.

Background

In March, Congressman Amo co-led a letter signed by 79 Members of Congress that urged the Trump administration to lift a pause on drawdowns for federal grant funding through the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA), including the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP).

In May, Congressman Amo led a letter signed by over 130 Members of Congress requesting $500 million in federal funding for the NSGP, the highest request since the creation of the grant program.

Last year, alongside the Rhode Island Delegation, Congressman Amo delivered $2.2 million in federal funding to nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island to protect faith-based institutions that have seen an uptick in threats in violence.

The NSGP provides funding for target hardening and other physical security enhancements and activities to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of terrorist attack. NSGP-eligible nonprofits are 501(c)(3) organizations determined to be at risk of a terrorist attack by DHS, with the input of the state emergency agencies. NSGP recipients may use funding for any of the following purposes:

""target hardening activities, including physical security enhancement equipment and inspection and screening systems"";

""fees for security training relating to physical security and cybersecurity, target hardening, terrorism awareness, and employee awareness""; and

""any other appropriate activity, including cybersecurity resilience activities, as determined by the [DHS] Administrator.""

Rhode Island nonprofits interested in NSGP funding can check the application deadlines and apply through the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency’s website.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-introduces-bipartisan-legislative-package-to-protect-consumers-from-surging-scams-and-financial-fraudsters,Amo Introduces Bipartisan Legislative Package to Protect Consumers from Surging Scams and Financial Fraudsters,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) introduced two bipartisan pieces of legislation to combat scams, the National Strategy for Combating Scams Act and the Strengthening Task Forces to Oppose Predatory (STOP) Scams Against Seniors Act.

“Too many Rhode Islanders have been taken for a ride by scammers skimming their pockets and stealing their hard-earned money, leaving many devastated and destitute,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “I’m proud to introduce these bipartisan measures, one of which is also bicameral, to ensure we are addressing the rising scam threat in a coordinated and strategic manner. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and the Senate as the national strategy is developed to keep fighting scammers and keep Rhode Islanders money where it belongs, in their pockets.""

“Too many seniors are being targeted by increasingly sophisticated financial scams,” said Congressman Jefferson Shreve (R-IN), House co-lead of the STOP Scams Against Seniors Act. “Strengthening our Elder Justice Task Forces gives law enforcement the tools they need to better protect older Americans and hold these criminal organizations accountable. I’m proud to join this effort to help safeguard some of our most trusting citizens.”

""As a former state attorney general, nothing makes my blood boil more than crooks and scam artists who rip off billions of dollars each year from Americans, particularly our seniors,” said Congressman Derek Schmidt (R-KS) House co-lead of the National Strategy for Combating Scams Act. “Too often, the alphabet soup of federal agencies assigned to protect Americans from scammers get stuck in their individual silos of responsibility and jurisdiction. Our bill is aimed at coordinating the federal response to scams and improving the cooperation among the authorities that are supposed to stop them.""

“Last year alone, Americans lost over $16 billion to scams. That’s a staggering amount of money that’s been stolen from our families, our neighbors, and, disproportionately, our seniors,” said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Senate co-lead of the National Strategy for Combating Scams Act. “I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan National Strategy for Combating Scams Act to help make sure seniors don’t get scrooged this holiday season. It’s clear that we need a coordinated national strategy to tackle the increasingly sophisticated scams targeting our seniors, and this legislation would bring that to fruition. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get this vital bill across the finish line.”

The bipartisan, bicameral National Strategy for Combating Scams Act would establish a federal working group led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation to coordinate the efforts of more than a dozen federal agencies in combating scams. The bill is co-led by Congressman Derek Schmidt (R-KS) in the U.S. House of Representatives. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Rick Scott (R-FL), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Ashley Moody (R-FL).

The bipartisan STOP Scams Against Seniors Act, introduced in the House, would authorize the creation of Elder Justice Task Forces to help local, state, and Federal agencies work together to investigate and prosecute illegal scammers. The bill is co-led by Congressman Jeffersen Shreve (R-IN).

Background

Rhode Island has seen a surge in scams targeting seniors in recent years. According to the FBI, victims in Rhode Island lost $6,309,411 to senior fraud in 2024.

This year, Congressman Amo launched the bipartisan Stop Scams Caucus to protect Americans from financial fraud, cyber scams, and cross-border criminal networks. The caucus serves as a hub in Congress to safeguard Americans' hard-earned dollars.

In January, Amo convened a roundtable conversation at the Middletown Senior Center with Rhode Islanders about preventing being defrauded.

On October 29, 2024, Congressman Amo sent a letter to Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina M. Khan ​​requesting assistance to address fraud and scams affecting seniors in Rhode Island and across the country.

The Strengthening Task Forces to Oppose Predatory (STOP) Scams Against Seniors Act is endorsed by the AARP, the Aspen Institute Financial Security Program, the Financial Technology Association (FTA), Operation Shamrock, the National Crime Prevention Council, the National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C), the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association, and the Stop Scams Alliance.

Read the full bill text here. A letter of support for the STOP Scams Against Seniors Act from the AARP can be found here.

The National Strategy for Combating Scams Act is endorsed by the AARP, the Aspen Institute Financial Security Program, the Financial Technology Association (FTA), Justice in Aging, the National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA), the National Crime Prevention Council, the National Center for Victims of Crime, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Inc. (NAELA), the National Caucus and Center on Black Aging, Inc. (NCBA), the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA), Operation Shamrock, and the Stop Scams Alliance. The Global Anti-Scam Alliance and Meta also support the bill.

Read the full bill text here. A letter of support from the AARP for the National Strategy for Combating Scams Act can be found here.

Additional quotes in support of the bills can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-welch-lead-bicameral-bill-to-update-and-expand-social-security-survivor-benefits-provide-financial-relief-to-families,"Amo, Welch Lead Bicameral Bill to Update and Expand Social Security Survivor Benefits, Provide Financial Relief to Families",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) and U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced the Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act, bicameral legislation to adjust benefits for the first time in over 70 years to cover costs associated with cremation or burials for surviving family members by increasing the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) lump-sum death benefit to account for inflation. Beginning in 2026, survivor benefits would increase from $255 to $2,900.

The legislation would index the SSA death benefit to the Consumer Price Index to ensure this benefit is aligned with other Social Security benefits, such as Cost-of-Living Adjustments.

“Families experiencing a loss should not have to struggle to afford a funeral for their loved one,” said Congressman Amo. “I'm proud to introduce the Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act with Senator Peter Welch to raise the amount a family can receive to help cover end of life costs for the first time in 70 years and index the benefit to inflation going forward. I will keep fighting in Washington to lower costs for Rhode Islanders, including at the most difficult moments.”

“Funeral costs should be the last thing on the minds of grieving families when they lose a loved one. But because benefits designed to help folks afford funeral expenses haven't kept pace with inflation, the cost of burying a loved one has become top of mind for many mourning families,” said Senator Welch. “This commonsense bill, inspired by the experiences of Vermonters, will update Social Security death benefits to help alleviate financial burdens for families following the loss of a loved one.”

Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Ed Markey (D-MA) are cosponsors of the legislation.

“This bill will modernize an important feature of Social Security to give families real financial relief and dignity as they grieve a loved one,” said Senator Whitehouse. “I’m glad to join my good friend Congressman Amo on legislation that further strengthens Social Security for the future.”

“Donald Trump's chaotic tariffs and skyrocketing costs are already squeezing American families— losing a loved one shouldn’t be the reason they go broke,” said Senator Warren. “Democrats are fighting hard to expand benefits and provide relief so families can stay afloat.”

“Our legislation eases the burden of funeral expenses for American families by adjusting Social Security benefits associated with burials and cremation to account for rising costs. Families grieving a loved one should receive increased Social Security benefits to alleviate the crushing financial burden and stress of burial expenses,” said Senator Blumenthal.

“Despite Social Security’s lump-sum death benefit remaining stagnant at $255 for over 70 years, the costs of funerals have increased ten-fold, costing thousands of dollars for grieving families,” said Senator Booker. “No one should have to worry about increasing funeral expenses, especially after losing a loved one. This legislation would make long-overdue updates to our Social Security system to ensure survivor benefits reflect the financial and emotional challenges families face during the loss of a family member.”

“A death in the family is already one of life’s hardest moments. The Social Security death benefit exists to ease stress for survivors making final arrangements for loved ones, but this benefit hasn’t been updated in decades. The Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act increases benefits to reflect costs and lowers the burden for families in grief,” said Senator Markey.

The Social Security Administration provides a lump-sum death benefit to survivors of a beneficiary in the event of their death to help families offset funeral costs. The lump sum payment, which is provided to surviving spouses, dependent children under 18, or children with disabilities, was capped at $255 in 1954.

In the 1950s, a full memorial and cremation service cost around $700. In Vermont, the average cost for a funeral with a viewing and cremation is $7,023. Nationwide, the median cost of a funeral with a viewing is $8,300, while the average cost for a funeral with cremation is $6,280. Despite this increase in cost, the SSA’s lump-sum death benefit has remained stagnant at $255.

The Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act is endorsed by the Alliance for Retired Americans; American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE); American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME); American Federation of Teachers (AFT); Justice in Aging; National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare; National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR); Social Security Works; Strengthen Social Security Coalition; and the Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement (WISER).

“It’s been 70 years since Social Security's lump-sum death benefit, currently $255, was last increased. This bill raises the benefit to $2,900 and indexes it to inflation, to better reflect the cost associated with burying a loved one,” said Richard Fiesta, Executive Director, Alliance for Retired Americans. “Grieving families deserve more meaningful assistance at a difficult and painful moment in their lives.”

“AFGE is proud to support Senator Welch’s Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act. This long-overdue legislation would raise the Social Security death benefit to help keep family members from being impoverished by basic funeral expenses for a loved one. It is the least we can do as we continue to pursue the modernization of Social Security - the greatest anti-poverty program the country has ever known,” said Everett B. Kelley, National President, American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO (AFGE).

“Working families are being squeezed by rising costs on every front, and if tragedy strikes, this financial strain can become overwhelming. The Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act will bring meaningful relief to families when they need it most, finally adjusting these benefits for inflation for the first time in more than 70 years. AFSCME members know how easily a family can slip into poverty after losing a loved one, and they see every day how critical this lifeline can be. We thank Sens. Welch, Sanders and Warren for easing the financial burden on families so they can move forward with dignity,” said Lee Saunders, President, AFSCME.

“The death of a spouse or parent brings profound economic pain for families that only adds to the stress of grieving. The Social Security lump-sum survivor benefit was created to help but remains meager and has completely failed to keep up with the cost of living. Sen. Welch’s Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act would finally increase the lump-sum death benefit from $255 to $2,900 and index it to inflation. It’s a compassionate move that would make a huge difference for people grappling with loss—and it’s simply the right thing to do. We fully support it and urge Congress to pass it,” said Randi Weingarten, President, AFT.

“Among the lesser known and utilized benefits provided under the Social Security Act is a lump-sum amount payable upon the death of a beneficiary which was intended to help the surviving family pay for a beneficiary’s funeral expenses. The last time the amount was adjusted was seventy years ago, when funerals only cost about $700. The Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act would adjust the death benefit to account for inflation, providing some relief to families facing financial and emotional burdens following the death of a loved one. Increasing the level would also provide an incentive for more families to claim the benefit, thus advancing the President’s goal of increased accuracy in timely and accurate reporting of the death of Social Security beneficiaries,” said Max Richtmann, President and CEO, National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare.

“For decades, the Social Security lump-sum death benefit has remained virtually unchanged, failing to reflect the realities families face when a loved one passes away. By updating and indexing this payment to inflation, Senator Welch’s legislation ensures that Social Security continues to provide meaningful, timely support to surviving spouses and families at one of the most difficult moments in their lives. NOSSCR appreciates Senator Welch’s leadership in modernizing this vital but long-overlooked aspect of the Social Security program,” said Betsy Rosecan, Government Relations Director, NOSSCR.

“When families lose a loved one, the last thing they should have to worry about is how they will pay for the funeral. Social Security includes a lump-sum death benefit, which should help to cover those costs. However, the value of that benefit has greatly deteriorated. Shockingly, the last time it was increased was almost three-quarters of a century ago. Social Security Works enthusiastically endorses the Social Security Benefits Equity Act, which restores this important component of Social Security so that it once again provides peace of mind during life's most difficult moments. The American people owe Senator Welch an enormous debt of gratitude for this important legislation,” Nancy J. Altman, President, Social Security Works.

“This bill is important for widows who are worried about outliving their savings and ending up without resources at the end of their lives,” said Cindy Hounsel, President, Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement (WISER).

Learn more about the Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act of 2025.

Read the full text of the bill.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-hosts-town-hall-with-healthsource-ri-to-answer-rhode-islanders-questions-about-the-republican-health-care-crisis,Amo Hosts Town Hall with HealthSource RI to Answer Rhode Islanders' Questions about the Republican Health Care Crisis,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – LAST NIGHT, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) and HealthSource RI Director Lindsay Lang answered Rhode Islanders’ questions about the health crisis created by ongoing Republican efforts to undermine the Affordable Care Act.

""The health care crisis Trump and Republicans are inflicting on the American people is forcing Rhode Islanders to make impossible choices between affording care and making ends meet. It’s driving up costs for everyone, no matter where they get their care,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Thank you to all who called in to share your stories of eye-popping health insurance premium increases. I'm grateful to HealthSource RI Director Lang and her team for their hard work to help Rhode Islanders get covered. I'm fighting in Washington to make it easier for Rhode Islanders to access reliable, affordable health care.”

“Healthcare and health coverage are on the top of many Rhode Islanders’ minds right now, as the reality of health coverage increases sets in, not only for HealthSource RI customers, but for countless thousands of others who are impacted by the projected effects of these federal changes,” said HealthSource RI Director Lindsay Lang. “We welcome the opportunity to speak directly with those who’ve shared their own stories and questions, and we want to assure Rhode Islanders that HealthSource RI is here to help – to ensure that as many as possible stay connected to coverage and all available financial assistance to meet their healthcare needs, and to help protect them from further financial hardships that can result from going uninsured.”

Background

Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans are inflicting a systematic health care crisis on the American people. If Republicans let the tax credits that help millions of Americans afford their health care through the Affordable Care Act expire, more than 41,000 Rhode Islanders will see their health insurance costs rise exponentially.

Open enrollment for health coverage through Rhode Island’s Affordable Care Act exchange, HealthSource RI, began on November 1, 2025. You can visit the HealthSource RI website or call 1-855-840-4774 to learn more and explore your coverage options.

In November, Congressman Amo met with Marlene Prichard, a retired teacher and breast cancer survivor, to hear how her health insurance premiums will jump from roughly $800 a month to over $1400 a month in 2026.

In October, Amo joined behavioral and mental health leaders at Butler Hospital to discuss how Republican attacks on health care impede Rhode Islanders’ ability to get care.

In September, Congressman Amo rallied with HealthSource RI Director Lindsay Lang, health care providers, patients, and community leaders at Blackstone Valley Community Health Care to demand Republicans extend cost-saving Affordable Care Act health insurance tax credits that help Americans afford health care.

Congressman Amo has voted to protect Rhode Islanders’ health care since being sworn in to Congress in 2023. He voted against Republicans’ Big, Ugly Law, which stripped more than $1 trillion from America's health care system in July after speaking against the bill at 3 am, not once but twice.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/roy-magaziner-issue-joint-statement-discharge-petition-congressional-stock,"Roy, Magaziner Issue Joint Statement on Discharge Petition on Congressional Stock Trading Ban",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Chip Roy (R-TX-21) and Seth Magaziner (D-RI-02), lead sponsors of the bipartisan Restore Trust in Congress Act, the leading proposal to ban Members of Congress from trading individual stocks, released the following statement after the filing of a discharge petition to bring their bill to the House floor for a vote.

“The clock is now running. If leadership does not move quickly to put forward a strong ban on congressional stock trading, the members of the body will act.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/vice-ranking-member-amo-ranking-member-meeks-request-usaid-state-department-inspectors-general-investigate-and-update-on-reports-that-trump-administration-wasted-food-assistance,"Vice Ranking Member Amo, Ranking Member Meeks Request USAID, State Department Inspectors General Investigate and Update on Reports that Trump Administration Wasted Food Assistance",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – TODAY, House Foreign Affairs Vice Ranking Member Gabe Amo (D-RI) and Ranking Member Gregory W. Meeks, sent a letter to the USAID and the State Department Acting Inspectors General requesting information on their investigation of wasted food assistance funded by U.S. taxpayers. In the aftermath of the Trump administration’s elimination of USAID, public reporting found that, at the direction of the Trump administration, millions of dollars in U.S. taxpayer funded food commodities were either left to spoil or discarded, though the administration has so far failed to provide details on the scale and circumstances of that waste despite Congressional requests to do so.

The Members write:

Dear Acting Inspectors General Aldridge and Baker:

We have raised concerns to the Department of State that remain unaddressed about reports of the destruction of taxpayer-funded food assistance intended for vulnerable populations abroad. These reports raise serious concerns about the Department’s program oversight, supply chain integrity, safety of food distribution, and stewardship of taxpayer-funded humanitarian and development aid.

Publicly available accounts and preliminary reports suggest that Secretary Rubio and other State Department officials discarded or destroyed significant quantities of food aid—procured and distributed under USAID auspices—prior to reaching their intended recipients. The circumstances surrounding these incidents remain unclear, including whether the losses were due to spoilage, diversion, logistical failure, or external interference.

During his testimony before the Foreign Affairs Committee on May 21, 2025, Secretary Rubio, in response to a question about State Department’s delivery delays of bought ready-to-use therapeutic food (also known as RUTFs), said, “there was no State Department delays.” However, after that hearing, public reporting appeared that government officials allowed $800,000 worth of emergency food commodities to expire, causing its destruction, despite multiple warnings from concerned USAID staff. Regardless of cause, such incidents raise serious concerns surrounding the Executive Branch’s possible misuse of congressionally authorized funds, erode the credibility of U.S. foreign aid, and jeopardize our strategic humanitarian objectives.

As announced on May 29, the USAID Office of Inspector General, Inspections and Evaluations division is initiating a series of inspections of the USAID Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance (BHA) warehouses used to preposition food aid. We respectfully request a status update on those and any other related inspections currently being undertaken. As the Committee with oversight authority over foreign affairs and foreign assistance, we are committed to ensuring that U.S. aid programs operate with transparency, efficiency, and accountability. Therefore, we also request your offices review the following and would appreciate your response by December 5, 2025:

The total number, scope, and scale of incidents in which food commodities bought with Congressionally-appropriated foreign assistance have been destroyed at the direction of USAID or State Department officials since January 20, 2025.

The justifications for and contributing factors leading to such food aid destruction.

The decision-making processes used to direct and implement such food aid destruction and the degree to which such processes accounted for any internal objections or concerns raised.

The adequacy of the State Department’s internal controls, monitoring and evaluation systems, and partner oversight mechanisms with respect to the expenditure of humanitarian and development assistance.

If your office requires additional authorities or resources to conduct this review, please advise us accordingly. Thank you for your continued service and commitment to safeguarding the integrity of U.S. foreign assistance. We look forward to your prompt attention to this matter.

The full PDF of the letter can be found here.

WATCH: Congressman Amo Questions Secretary Rubio as he Claims ‘No One Has Died’ after Tons of Food Aid Destroyed

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnston-police-department-introduces-new-motorcycles-and-emergency-equipment,Johnston Police Department Introduces New Motorcycles and Emergency Equipment Funded by Grant Secured by Rep. Magaziner,2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"JOHNSTON, RI — Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) joined the Johnston Police Department and Mayor Joseph Polisena Jr. to celebrate the arrival of new equipment for the town police department, including two new Harley-Davidson police motorcycles, purchased with federal funding secured by Rep. Magaziner.

“Local law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to keep Johnston safe, and they deserve the absolute best equipment so they can do their jobs,” said Magaziner. “I am proud to have secured federal funding for these motorcycles and radios, which will help the Johnston Police Department protect and serve Rhode Islanders efficiently and effectively.”

“Representative Magaziner’s support has directly strengthened the Johnston Police Department by providing the tools and technology our officers need to do their jobs safely and effectively. Fromupgraded portable radios to new motorcycles, improved backup communication systems, and enhanced training, this funding makes a real difference on the ground. We’re grateful for his commitment to our Johnston police officers and to the safety of our entire community,” said Johnston Mayor Joseph M. Polisena Jr.

""This grant has allowed us to purchase state-of-the-art portable radios for our officers and two new police motorcycles. This equipment has strengthened officer safety and enhanced our ability to respond quickly and effectively. These upgrades have elevated our communication, increased our mobility, and improved our overall readiness. We are grateful to Representative Magaziner for securing this funding and for his steadfast support of the Johnston Police Department and the community we proudly serve,"" said Johnston Police Chief Mark Vieira.

In April 2024, Rep. Magaziner announced the $485,000 of federal funding for the Johnston Police Department to purchase new portable radios and acquire the two new motorcycles. Those vehicles have now arrived and are ready for service as part of the department’s special services unit.

This investment in updated equipment supports Johnston’s police officers, enhances community safety, and improves emergency preparedness. The Johnston Police Department serves almost 30,000 residents and over 850 businesses.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/homeland-security-committee-member-magaziner-statement-ice-detainment-rhode,Homeland Security Committee Member Magaziner Statement on ICE Detainment of Rhode Island Superior Court Intern,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Ranking Member of the Counterterrorism and Intelligence Subcommittee on the House Homeland Security Committee, released the following statement in response to the wrongful targeting and detention of a Rhode Island Superior Court intern by ICE, who was only released after intervention by a judge.

“The incident today in Providence involving a Superior Court judge and the wrongful detainment of an intern by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement is completely unacceptable.

This is yet another example of the disregard for civil liberties by immigration enforcement under the Trump Administration.

As a Member of the House Homeland Security Committee, I will continue to call out the Administration’s reckless actions, in Rhode Island and across the county.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-mackenzie-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-american-diplomacy-with-australia,"Amo, Mackenzie Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen American Diplomacy with Australia",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – TODAY, House Foreign Affairs Vice Ranking Member Gabe Amo (D-RI) and Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA) introduced the Promoting Diplomacy with Australia Act to ensure American diplomats in Australia have the resources they need to promote American political, economic, and national security interests. The bipartisan bill asks for a review of current capacity at the U.S. Mission in Australia and recommendations about future resource needs as the U.S. government expands its presence in Australia.

“Our hardworking diplomats in Australia need ample resources to support their efforts working with our ally to bolster our interests in the Indo-Pacific,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “I am proud to partner with Congressman Mackenzie on our new bipartisan bill to help ensure the American mission to Australia has the staff and resources they need to support the growing U.S. presence in Australia and our national security, economic, and diplomatic work with our long-time ally.”

“Our foreign policy objectives benefit from having a robust team of support personnel,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “Alongside the upcoming growth in USG staff at the US Mission in Australia, it’s important that we have the appropriate amount of support staff necessary to be as effective as possible. Conducting a report on staffing capacity at the Mission will ensure that proper resources are in place to get the job done.""

WATCH HERE: Amo Discusses Need for Promoting Diplomacy with Australia Act in the House Foreign Affairs Committee

Full text of the legislation is available here.

Background

Vice Ranking Member Amo is proud to serve as a member of the Congressional Friends of Australia Caucus to promote the close relationship between the United States and Australia.

On August 21, 2025, Vice Ranking Member Amo and House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Emeritus Michael McCaul (R-TX) introduced H.R. 5013, the AUKUS Improvement Act, which would strengthen the defense partnership between the United States and Australia by exempting defense entities already vetted by the State Department as AUKUS Authorized Users from additional scrutiny. The AUKUS Improvement Act passed the House Foreign Affairs Committee on September 18, 2025, as an amendment to the State Department Reauthorization package.

On September 18, 2025, similar language to the bipartisan Promoting Diplomacy with Australia Act also passed the House Foreign Affairs Committee as an amendment to the State Department Reauthorization package.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-statement-house-administration-committee-hearing-stock-trading,Magaziner Statement on House Administration Committee Hearing on Stock Trading,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) – the Democratic co-lead of the leading bill to ban Members of Congress from trading stocks, Restore Trust in Congress Act – released the following statement in reaction to the House Administration Committee’s hearing today on congressional stock trading:

“The House Administration Committee’s hearing on congressional stock trading is a sign of the growing momentum we have to finally ban Members of Congress from trading stocks.

But the American people have made it clear that hearings alone are not enough. We have a strong, enforceable, bipartisan bill to ban stock trading once and for all, and we need Speaker Johnson to bring it to the floor immediately for a vote.

Hearings are an important first step, but now we need real action to end corruption and insider trading in Washington.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-statement-on-house-vote-to-force-release-of-epstein-files,Amo Statement on House Vote to Force Release of Epstein Files,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“For too long, Epstein’s heinous crimes against countless innocent survivors have been kept hidden by powerful men. In fact, Donald Trump could release the files today and provide the truth Americans deserve.

In Congress, too many Republicans have obfuscated and delayed at every turn, at the behest of a President found guilty of sexual abuse. Make no mistake, Epstein said Trump “knew about the girls.” Trump’s coverup is not an accident, but a willful scheme to keep his involvement with a convicted pedophile and human trafficker secret.

I voted yes to seek justice, ensure the truth sees the light of day, stand with the survivors, and make sure powerful people are held accountable for perpetrating abuse. The Senate should pass this bill immediately and the President should sign it promptly.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/ri-delegation-announces-25m-for-new-hybrid-buses-for-ripta,RI Delegation Announces $25M for New Hybrid Buses for RIPTA,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to strengthen public transportation, reduce pollution, and lower costs, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo today announced that Rhode Island will soon receive $25 million in Low or No Emission Grant Program funding to support the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority’s (RIPTA) transition to low- or zero-emission buses.

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is awarding Rhode Island the federal funding through the Low or No Emission Grant, which provides federal funding through a competitive process to states and transit agencies to purchase or lease low- or no-emission buses and other transit vehicles that use advanced technologies such as battery electric or fuel-cell power to provide cleaner, more energy efficient transit service in communities across the country.

RIPTA’s new electric bus fleet will provide modern, sustainable, and emissions-free transportation for riders across the state.

The funds are being made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (P.L. 117-58), which Senators Reed and Whitehouse helped pass in 2022.

“This federal funding will help shift RIPTA’s bus fleet to newer, more energy-efficient buses, resulting in reliable rides, cleaner air, and lower costs for taxpayers,” said Senator Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee who has successfully led bipartisan efforts to plus up the Low-No Emissions Bus Grant Program. “I am committed to delivering federal resources to help steer us toward a cleaner energy future with less pollution and more convenient and efficient public transportation options.”

“This federal funding will support RIPTA’s transition to a modernized hybrid fleet,” said Senator Whitehouse, Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “Our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to make smart investments in public transportation that move the Ocean State toward a clean energy future.”

“This federal funding for RIPTA to transition to low- or no-emission fleets means lower costs for travelers, cleaner air, and more energy-efficient systems,” said Rep. Magaziner. “I am proud to assist in this transition and make Rhode Island cleaner, more affordable, and better connected.”

“Investing in energy-efficient buses will help Rhode Island do its part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improve public health, and support our clean energy future,"" said Congressman Amo. ""I'm thrilled this new federal funding will help RIPTA reduce costs and expand its energy-efficient fleet.”

“On behalf of the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to our congressional delegation for their unwavering support and tireless advocacy of public transit,” said RIPTA Chief Executive Officer Christopher Durand. “This vital $25 million federal investment will help fund our vision for a modern, sustainable transit system while improving the passenger experience, supporting cleaner air, and delivering meaningful benefits to communities across Rhode Island.”

With this latest grant, RIPTA has now been awarded over $77 million in federal competitive grants since 2020 to make capital investments in upgrading its clean energy fleet of buses and charging infrastructure.

RIPTA operates a fleet of about 230 fixed-route buses and continues to actively transition its fleet to include more sustainable, zero-emission vehicles.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-local-substitute-teacher-facing-skyrocketing-premiums-call-out-republican-health-care-crisis,"Amo, Local Substitute Teacher Facing Skyrocketing Premiums Call Out Republican Health Care Crisis",2025-11-17,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) and local teacher and breast cancer survivor, Marlene Prichard, spoke to the media about the catastrophic consequences of Republicans’ health care crisis. Marlene shared her story about how her health insurance premiums will jump from roughly $800 a month to over $1400 a month in 2026.

“Marlene is one of thousands of Rhode Islanders feeling the pinch of price hikes caused by Donald Trump’s and Republicans’ choice to cut $1 trillion from our health care system and let the Affordable Care Act tax credits 22 million Americans rely on expire,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Republicans’ health care crisis is driving up health care costs for everyone and forcing people to make impossible choices. Choices between feeding and housing their families or going without insurance and praying that they don't get sick. I’m going back to Washington to fight to stop the cuts, lower the costs, and save health care for Rhode Islanders.”

“As a soon-to-be retiree who purchases care through HealthSource RI, with a little over two years before I can access Medicare, my health insurance is set to jump by $600 a month or possibly more next year,” said Marlene Prichard, substitute teacher and breast cancer survivor. “How can anyone afford that? I shouldn’t have to choose between getting the cancer screenings I need and making ends meet. Thank you to Congressman Amo for his advocacy, fighting so people can afford their care.”

Background

Congressman Amo has fought Trump and Republicans’ attempts to undercut Americans’ health care system at every turn.

Rather than extend the Affordable Care Act Extended Premium Tax Credits that help 22 million Americans afford health care, Republicans shut down the government. Congressman Amo voted against their rigged spending bill that failed to address this looming health care cliff that will hurt Rhode Islanders like Marlene.

Trump and Republicans’ Big, Ugly Law cut $1 trillion from Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act. Congressman Amo voted no after speaking out against the bill on the House floor at 3am not once, but twice.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-and-amo-speak-community-health-center-leaders-about-health-care,Magaziner and Amo Speak with Community Health Center Leaders About Health Care Affordability Crisis,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – Today, U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner (RI-02) and Gabe Amo (RI-01) joined local health care providers and the Rhode Island Health Center Association to highlight the growing health care affordability crisis, which is driving up insurance premiums for patients and putting strain the community health centers that provide primary care to one in five Rhode Islanders.

The conversation comes just after the start of open enrollment through HealthSource RI, a time when thousands of Rhode Islanders are seeing steep premium increases for 2026. Magaziner and Amo have repeatedly called for Congress to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits that help more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders afford coverage.

“I am hearing every day from Rhode Islanders whose health care costs are skyrocketing,” said Magaziner. “These rising costs not only hurt working people, they strain community health centers that are already stretched thin. It’s time for Republicans in Congress to stop playing games and extend Affordable Care Act funding before more people are priced out of coverage.”

“With open enrollment underway, Rhode Islanders are seeing their health costs soar,"" said Congressman Gabe Amo. ""I appreciated hearing from Rhode Island community health centers leaders about the challenges families and providers are facing because of this Republican health care crisis. I remain committed to fighting for an extension of the Affordable Care Act tax credits that people need to ensure they can afford health coverage and to shore up our health care system.”

“We are grateful to have met with Representatives Magaziner and Amo today. In January, Rhode Island’s eight community health centers will see a sharp increase in the number of patients who are uninsured. Initially this will be due to the Affordable Care Act tax credits ending and will accelerate as federal Medicaid eligibility restrictions are implemented. At the same time, federal funding for health centers has expired, and other revenue sources are decreasing. We are in challenging times and acknowledge the support Representatives Magaziner and Amo have consistently shown for health centers, their employees, and the more than 220,000 Rhode Islanders who rely on health centers for their care.” said Elena Nicolella, President and CEO of the Rhode Island Health Center Association.

Representatives from local Rhode Island community health centers in attendance included Merrill Thomas, CEO Providence Community Health Centers; Cristy Pacheco, CEO Blackstone Valley Community Health Care; Chuck Jones, CEO Thundermist Health Center; Chris Mansfield, CEO Comprehensive Community Action Agency; Alison Croke, CEO Wood River Health; Elena Nicolella, CEO & President of the RI Health Center Association; and Jesse Shipley, COO of East Bay Community Action Program.

The lawmakers and local health care leaders discussed the devastating impact that these cuts will have on both patients facing higher costs and the stability of Rhode Island’s entire health care system.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-statement-on-republican-bill-that-betrays-rhode-islanders-and-allows-health-care-costs-to-soar,Amo Statement on Republican Bill that Betrays Rhode Islanders and Allows Health Care Costs to Soar,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"""After stealing over $1 trillion from our health care system in their Big, Ugly, Law, this continuing resolution is another betrayal from Donald Trump and Republicans that hurts working families.

The Republican shutdown needlessly offered a series of false choices. Republicans chose a shutdown instead of addressing the health care crisis they created. They pitted hungry families needing food against those facing skyrocketing premiums and held workers’ paychecks hostage to avoid bipartisan negotiation.

With this dastardly deal, Trump and Congressional Republicans are shirking responsibility and forcing parents to decide between treating an illness and paying for rent, a young person between food and insurance, and a retiree between heat and medication.

This is not a deal Rhode Islanders can afford. It will cause irreparable harm to our health care — for all of us. I’m going to keep calling out the cruelty, fighting to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits, and addressing Trump’s affordability crisis because we cannot back down in the face of Americans being left sicker and poorer.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-celebrates-contributions-of-rhode-islanders-on-veterans-day,Amo Celebrates Contributions of Rhode Islanders on Veterans Day,2025-11-11,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Providence, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) joined Veterans, military families, and Veterans Service Organizations across the First Congressional District to commemorate Veterans Day.

“Rhode Islanders have served our nation in uniform with honor and distinction for generations, ” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “We must ensure that those who have borne the burden, and their families, have the support and services they need to succeed. On Veterans Day, we thank all of those who have served.”

Background

Congressman Amo is committed to supporting Rhode Island’s Veterans.

On September 14, 2025, Amo hosted his second annual Veterans Barbecue and Resource Fair.

On July 3, 2025, Amo voted no on Trump’s Big, Ugly Law, which gutted SNAP, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act. An estimated 3,000 Rhode Island Veterans received SNAP between 2021 and 2023. As of 2023, 4,200 Rhode Island Veterans were enrolled in Medicaid.

On May 15, 2025, Amo introduced a bicameral, bipartisan resolution to support Veteran mental health by establishing “Vets Get Outside Day.”

On March 11, 2025, Amo voted no on the extreme Republican Continuing Resolution year that failed to fund the PACT Act and the commitment to provide health care to Veterans impacted by toxic exposure.

On February 13, 2025, Amo introduced a bipartisan bill with Senator Sheldon Whitehouse to recognize America’s first integrated military unit — the First Rhode Island Regiment — by posthumously awarding its members with the Congressional Gold Medal.

On May 28, 2024, Amo launched his District Veterans Advisory Committee, a group of respected local Veterans, to ensure RI Veterans interests are well-represented in Washington.

On August 28, 2024, Amo hosted his first Barbecue to honor the Veterans of Rhode Island’s First Congressional District.

On February 27, 2024, Amo announced over $586,000 in federal funds to help homeless Veterans and their families find permanent housing.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-and-magaziner-speak-with-community-health-center-leaders-about-health-care-affordability-crisis,Amo and Magaziner Speak with Community Health Center Leaders About Health Care Affordability Crisis,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – Today, U.S. Representatives Gabe Amo (RI-01) and Seth Magaziner (RI-02) joined local health care providers and the Rhode Island Health Center Association to highlight the growing health care affordability crisis, which is driving up insurance premiums for patients and putting strain the community health centers that provide primary care to one in five Rhode Islanders.

The conversation comes just after the start of open enrollment through HealthSource RI, a time when thousands of Rhode Islanders are seeing steep premium increases for 2026. Amo and Magaziner have repeatedly called for Congress to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits that help more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders afford coverage.

“With open enrollment underway, Rhode Islanders are seeing their health costs soar,"" said Congressman Gabe Amo. ""I appreciated hearing from Rhode Island community health centers leaders about the challenges families and providers are facing because of this Republican health care crisis. I remain committed to fighting for an extension of the Affordable Care Act tax credits that people need to ensure they can afford health coverage and to shore up our health care system.”

“I am hearing every day from Rhode Islanders whose health care costs are skyrocketing,” said Congressman Seth Magaziner. “These rising costs not only hurt working people, they strain community health centers that are already stretched thin. It’s time for Republicans in Congress to stop playing games and extend Affordable Care Act funding before more people are priced out of coverage.”

“We are grateful to have met with Representatives Magaziner and Amo today. In January, Rhode Island’s eight community health centers will see a sharp increase in the number of patients who are uninsured. Initially this will be due to the Affordable Care Act tax credits ending and will accelerate as federal Medicaid eligibility restrictions are implemented. At the same time, federal funding for health centers has expired, and other revenue sources are decreasing. We are in challenging times and acknowledge the support Representatives Magaziner and Amo have consistently shown for health centers, their employees, and the more than 220,000 Rhode Islanders who rely on health centers for their care.” said Elena Nicolella, President and CEO of the Rhode Island Health Center Association.

Representatives from local Rhode Island community health centers in attendance included Merrill Thomas, CEO Providence Community Health Centers; Cristy Pacheco, CEO Blackstone Valley Community Health Care; Chuck Jones, CEO Thundermist Health Center; Chris Mansfield, CEO Comprehensive Community Action Agency; Alison Croke, CEO Wood River Health; Elena Nicolella, CEO & President of the RI Health Center Association; and Jesse Shipley, COO of East Bay Community Action Program.

The lawmakers and local health care leaders discussed the devastating impact that these cuts will have on both patients facing higher costs and the stability of Rhode Island’s entire health care system.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-honors-rhode-island-veterans-2nd-annual-veterans-appreciation,Magaziner Honors Rhode Island Veterans at 2nd Annual Veterans Appreciation Breakfast,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WARWICK, RI — U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner held his 2nd Annual Veterans Appreciation Breakfast and Legislative Update today to commemorate Veterans Day and honor those who served our country in uniform. He was joined by community partners to recognize exceptional individuals and organizations that have dedicated their time and effort to supporting Rhode Island veterans.

“Rhode Island’s veterans have bravely answered the call to serve and defend the freedoms we hold dear,” said Magaziner. “Our nation has a sacred obligation to care for them when they return home. I am proud to host this second annual event to honor their service and sacrifice, and I will continue fighting in Washington to make sure every veteran receives the benefits and health care they rightfully earned.”

The keynote speaker at today’s event was Tim Gray, a filmmaker and the President & Founder of the World War II Foundation, a non-profit devoted to educating new generations about WWII history via documentaries.

“Of the 16 million Americans who served in World War II, only 0.5 percent remain, roughly 44,000. In Rhode Island, it's estimated roughly 314 are still with us. Soon these men and women will all be gone and we will have lost the ability to learn firsthand important lessons from those who saved the world and preserved Democracy. Many who fought were just teenagers and young men. We need to preserve their legacy for current and future generations,"" said Tim Gray.

Other distinguished speakers at today’s event included the Director of Veterans Affairs for the State of Rhode Island Lt. Commander Kasim J. Yarn and 45th Adjutant General of Rhode Island, Major General Andrew J. Chevalier.

Rep. Magaziner partnered with the State of Rhode Island Office of Veterans Services, the Rhode Island Department of Labor & Training - Veterans Services Unit, the United Way of Rhode Island, Operation Stand Down RI, Mission: Boots to Briefcases, and Foster Care Connections RI to provide information about the resources and services available to Rhode Island veterans and their families. Presentation of the colors was led by the Coventry High School JROTC.

Veterans and their families can find more information by reaching out to a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO). Caseworkers from Rep. Magaziner’s office can also assist with VA-related issues and can be contacted at (401) 244-1201.

BACKGROUND:

Rep. Magaziner presented four awards today: Two Veterans Leadership Awards and two Excellence in Community Service Awards.

The Veterans Leadership Award recognizes outstanding individuals who have made it their life’s work to give back to the military and veteran community.

The Excellence in Community Service Award recognizes individuals and organizations dedicated to supporting veterans and their families through exceptional volunteerism, advocacy, and mentorship.

Biographies of the awards recipients are below.

Commander Bob Flynn, USN, Retired is the Director of the Center for Military and Veteran Education at the University of Rhode Island. He served 28 years in the Navy where he was a naval flight officer in carrier-based aircraft and retired as a Commander. He also served on the military faculty of the Strategy and Policy Department at the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, RI. His most recent aviation assignment was as Executive Officer of the Blue Angels.

Commander Bob Flynn received the Veterans Leadership Award.

Rhode Island State Rep. Samuel Azzinaro has served the residents of District 37 in Westerly since first being elected in November 2008. He is the chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, where he has been a steadfast advocate for service members and veterans. He served in the National Guard for four years, and was a member of the Army Reserve for four years, including two years of active duty. He was a Staff Sergeant E6.

Rep. Azzinaro received the Veterans Leadership Award.

Operation Stand Down Rhode Island is an independent non-profit organization and Rhode Island's primary resource for homeless and at-risk veterans. Founded in 1993 and headquartered in Johnston, OSDRI offers an array of services for veterans, including housing, rental assistance, pro bono legal services, employment and training, basic human needs, and assistance in applying for and appealing VA benefit claims for service-connected disabilities. Annually, OSDRI serves approximately 2500 local veterans.

Operation Stand Down Rhode Island received the Excellence in Community Service Award.

Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island has been serving Rhode Islanders since 1969. Their programs and initiatives have worked to help homebound older adults, including veterans, and other at-risk Rhode Island residents receive increased access to adequate nutrition, safety assurances, and socialization.

Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island received the Excellence in Community Service Award.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-statement-on-senate-deal-that-fails-to-address-the-republican-health-care-crisis,Amo Statement on Senate Deal that Fails to Address the Republican Health Care Crisis,2025-11-09,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Providence, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) released the following statement on Trump and Republicans’ plan that will make Americans sicker and poorer.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/vice-ranking-member-amo-leads-125-democrats-calling-on-secretary-rubio-to-provide-robust-american-leadership-to-feed-palestinian-civilians,Vice Ranking Member Amo Leads 125 Democrats Calling on Secretary Rubio to Provide Robust American Leadership to Feed Palestinian Civilians,2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) led 125 colleagues calling on Secretary of State Marco Rubio to ensure desperately needed humanitarian aid reaches Gazan civilians. Nearly one month into the ceasefire agreement, there are still no details from the Trump administration on what aid is allowed into Gaza and what role the United States will play in aid delivery.

The lawmakers write:

“Two years after Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel on October 7, we are encouraged by the ceasefire announced on October 8, 2025, and urge all parties to embrace this opportunity to create lasting peace and security in the region. While we welcome the news that humanitarian aid is entering Gaza after the October 8 ceasefire agreement, we seek clarity on your plan to ensure desperately needed humanitarian aid reaches Palestinian civilians in Gaza.”

“After over two years, there remains an insufficient supply of food, water, baby formula, medicine, and other essential humanitarian supplies needed to support life for Palestinian civilians in Gaza. People are dying of starvation, including over 100 children since the start of the war, with an additional 320,000 children at risk of acute malnutrition.”

“We are encouraged that more aid is being delivered following the recent ceasefire agreement, and we urge that aid distribution to be conducted by reputable international institutions. We hope that amidst the challenges of maintaining the ceasefire, there remains a robust commitment to all parties involved to continuing the flow of aid into Gaza. However, several questions remain about the implementation of this ceasefire and the State Department’s plan to increase humanitarian aid into Gaza for civilians.”

“How will the State Department ensure that there is not only a sufficient amount but also a proper combination of humanitarian aid, such as food, water, baby formula, medicine, and housing supplies, to meet the needs of Palestinian civilians in Gaza?

Read the full text of the letter HERE.

The following Members of Congress have signed the letter:

Alma Adams, Gabe Amo, Yassamin Ansari, Becca Balint, Nanette Barragán, Ami Bera, Donald Beyer, Suzanne Bonamici, Brendan Boyle, Shontel Brown, Julia Brownley, Nikki Budzinski, Salud Carbajal, André Carson, Troy Carter, Greg Casar, Ed Case, Sean Casten, Kathy Castor, Joaquin Castro, Judy Chu, Yvette Clarke, Emanuel Cleaver, James Clyburn, Steve Cohen, Herbert Conaway, Joe Courtney, Angie Craig, Jason Crow, Sharice Davids, Danny Davis, Madeleine Dean, Diana DeGette, Rosa DeLauro, Christopher Deluzio, Mark DeSaulnier, Maxine Dexter, Debbie Dingell, Lloyd Doggett, Sarah Elfreth, Veronica Escobar, Dwight Evans, Cleo Fields, Shomari Figures, Lizzie Fletcher, Valerie Foushee, Laura Friedman, Maxwell Frost, John Garamendi, Jesús García, Robert Garcia, Sylvia Garcia, Dan Goldman, Jimmy Gomez, Maggie Goodlander, Al Green, Jahana Hayes, Pablo Hernández, Val Hoyle, Jared Huffman, Jonathan Jackson, Sara Jacobs, Pramila Jayapal, Henry Johnson, Julie Johnson, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, William Keating, Robin Kelly, Ro Khanna, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Rick Larsen, John Larson, Teresa Leger Fernandez, Sam Liccardo, Zoe Lofgren, Stephen Lynch, Seth Magaziner, Doris Matsui, April McClain Delaney, Jennifer McClellan, Betty McCollum, Kristen McDonald Rivet, Morgan McGarvey, James McGovern, LaMonica McIver, Kweisi Mfume, Dave Min, Gwen Moore, Kelly Morrison, Seth Moulton, Kevin Mullin, Jerrold Nadler, Eleanor Norton, Chris Pappas, Nancy Pelosi, Chellie Pingree, Mark Pocan, Mike Quigley, Emily Randall, Jamie Raskin, Luz Rivas, Deborah Ross, Raul Ruiz, Andrea Salinas, Linda Sánchez, Janice Schakowsky, Robert Scott, Terri Sewell, Lateefah Simon, Eric Sorensen, Melanie Stansbury, Eric Swalwell, Mark Takano, Bennie Thompson, Mike Thompson, Dina Titus, Jill Tokuda, Paul Tonko, Norma Torres, Lori Trahan, Derek Tran, Nydia Velázquez, James Walkinshaw, Maxine Waters, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Nikema Williams

Background

As the Vice Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Congressman Amo has fought to strengthen and protect America’s foreign aid initiatives.

In July, Amo led a letter with 51 colleagues opposing Secretary Rubio’s decision to withhold and subsequently incinerate nearly 500 metric tons of emergency food.

In May, Amo questioned Secretary Rubio in the House Foreign Affairs Committee about the Trump Administration’s destruction of America’s foreign aid enterprise and failure to deliver Rhode Island-made Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food aid to those in need.

In July 2024, Amo sent a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator Samantha Power in support of dedicated funding for Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food to address acute malnutrition in Gaza, Sudan, and elsewhere throughout the world.

In May of 2024, Amo spoke about the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza to allow for the humanitarian aid and Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods to flow to Palestinian civilians.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-statement-on-speaker-emerita-pelosi-s-decades-of-public-service,Amo Statement on Speaker Emerita Pelosi’s Decades of Public Service,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“Thank you to Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi for a lifetime of service to the American people. For nearly 40 years, Speaker Pelosi has been a tireless champion for opportunity, equality and progress; she shattered glass ceilings and blazed trails. She fought for the people, for the children, and for our nation — she is the embodiment of American values.

Throughout her career, Speaker Pelosi took on big fights that have shaped our country, including: leading the fight to end the AIDS crisis, spearheading the charge to repeal Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, holding Wall Street accountable after the 2008 financial crisis, and securing the passage of the most consequential expansion of health care in a generation, the Affordable Care Act. And as our nation’s Capitol was attacked on January 6th, she stood watch to protect our democracy.

We will all remember Speaker Pelosi's many legislative accomplishments and impressive whip counts, securing her position as our nation’s greatest Speaker of the House.

I hope she will get to spend some well-earned time with her husband, Paul, her children and grandchildren. I am grateful to have served alongside this true patriot and look forward to working together to ensure Democrats take back the majority and build on her remarkable legacy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-statement-speaker-emerita-nancy-pelosis-announced-retirement,Magaziner Statement on Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi’s Announced Retirement,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WARWICK, RI – Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) released the following statement in response to Speaker Emerita’s Nancy Pelosi’s announcement to retire from Congress after this term:

“Speaker Nancy Pelosi is a trailblazer whose legacy as one of our nation’s most effective leaders is unmatched.

Under her leadership, our country made historic progress to expand health insurance to millions of Americans, stabilize the economy after the 2008 financial crisis, expand access to housing, rebuild critical infrastructure, and much more. She is a fierce defender of democracy, standing firmly during moments of crisis, including in the wake of the January 6th attacks on the Capitol.

On a personal level, it has been an honor to work with and learn from her. Speaker Pelosi is universally known as a tough, compassionate leader. She will be remembered as one of our nation's most consequential figures.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/cranston-police-department-introduces-new-k-9-vehicles-funded-grant-secured,Cranston Police Department Introduces New K-9 Vehicles Funded by Grant Secured by Rep. Magaziner,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CRANSTON, RI — Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) joined the Cranston Police Department and local leaders to celebrate the arrival of newly upgraded K-9 vehicles purchased with federal funding Rep. Magaziner secured through Congress’ appropriations process.

The funding enabled the department to acquire four specialty vehicles designed to safely transport canines and their handlers. The new vehicles will support three patrol dogs and one therapy dog who assist with search-and-rescue missions for missing children and vulnerable individuals, property searches, narcotics detection, and other critical public safety operations.

The new fleet replaces aging vehicles and includes vehicles equipped with emergency lighting, sirens, patrol technology systems, and fire suppression devices designed specifically to protect officers and K-9 units. Today’s event marks the final arrival and deployment of the new K-9 fleet.

“Local law enforcement officers and their canine partners work hard every day to keep Cranston safe, and they deserve the tools and support to do their jobs,” said Magaziner. “I am proud to have secured federal funding for these upgraded K-9 vehicles, which will help the Cranston Police Department protect and serve Rhode Islanders.

“These new K-9 vehicles are an essential addition to our law enforcement capabilities, allowing us to enhance our response times and effectiveness in various critical situations,” Mayor Ken Hopkins said. “The safety and well-being of our residents are of utmost importance, and these vehicles will play a vital role in ensuring that Cranston remains a safe community for all. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Representative Magaziner for his continued support for Cranston in securing the federal funding necessary for this procurement.”

“The Cranston Police Department is grateful to Congressman Magaziner for securing this important federal funding. These upgraded vehicles will enhance the safety of our officers and K-9 partners while ensuring we can continue providing critical services to the residents of Cranston,” said Colonel Michael J. Winquist, Chief of Police. “Our K-9 teams play a vital role in keeping the community safe, and this investment helps us support their mission with the best equipment available.”

The Cranston Police Department’s K-9 unit includes Officer Zach Burns and K-9 Beny, Officer Jason Dagnese and K-9 Tyr, Officer Michael Rocchio and K-9 Odin, and Shane Odonnell and K-9 Czar. The unit also includes a therapy dog, CALI, who provides comfort and support to young victims of abuse in partnership with Hasbro Children’s Hospital.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-statement-trump-withholding-snap-benefits-defiance-court-order,Magaziner Statement on Trump Withholding SNAP Benefits in Defiance of Court Order,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WARWICK, RI – On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner (RI-02) released the following statement in response to President Trump’s post on Truth Social indicating that he will withhold SNAP funding, despite a court order to release the funds.

“President Trump continues to use hunger as a political weapon, depriving 40 million Americans – most of them children and the elderly – of SNAP benefits in defiance of a court order. It is horrific that an American President would give $40 billion to Argentina while depriving his own citizens of food.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-joined-volunteers-and-rhode-islanders-facing-trump-s-snap-inaction-and-republican-health-care-cost-hikes,Amo Joined Volunteers and Rhode Islanders Facing Trump’s SNAP Inaction and Republican Health Care Cost Hikes,2025-11-01,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, PAWTUCKET, WOONSOCKET, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) joined volunteers at food pantries across the First Congressional District to pack food and supplies for Rhode Islanders facing food insecurity because of President Donald Trump’s choice to illegally threaten to withhold SNAP benefits for the month of November.

Amo joined volunteers at Mount Hope Community Center in Providence, the ELISHA Project in Pawtucket, and the Milagros Project in Woonsocket to help pack boxes of food and supplies for families who may need them.

“We look out for our neighbors, that’s the spirit of Rhode Island,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Despite Trump and Republicans’ inaction to end the shutdown, to lower costs, and to make sure people are fed, Rhode Islanders are stepping up, reflecting the best of us. But it should not be this way, the President must comply with the law and not illegally withhold the $6 a day in SNAP benefits that 144,000 Rhode Islanders, including 46,000 Rhode Island children depend on. Thanks to the work of Attorney General Peter Neronha and Rhode Island municipal and nonprofit leaders, federal judges in Rhode Island and Massachusetts ordered the President to use contingency funds to pay SNAP recipients. Trump must act quickly, without any further delay and comply with this order. ”

Background

Congressman Amo, a Member of the House Budget Committee, is a champion of the SNAP program and has fought Republican cuts to the program at every turn.

Amo voted against the Big, Ugly Law which cut $187 billion from SNAP and threatens to kick over 35,000 Rhode Islanders off the program, leaving working families even more vulnerable to Trump and Republicans’ cost of living crisis. Trump and Republicans are also forcing states to comply with some of the harshest red tape imposed on SNAP in decades by today, November 1, making it more difficult for those up to age 65, including veterans, caregivers, and parents, to access benefits.

In the fight to protect Rhode Islanders access to nutrition assistance, Amo also introduced the Continuity and Reimbursement for Essential Nutrition (CARE) for WIC During Shutdowns Act to ensure states’ that fill the federal funding gap for WIC during a government shutdown are reimbursed and can continue to provide vital nutrition services, whether or not Republicans show up to work.

Since Trump and Republicans began their efforts to decimate America’s social safety net, Amo has visited food pantries across the First Congressional District, which are seeing a spike in need as SNAP is cut, and Trump’s tariffs have caused grocery prices to jump dramatically. The State of Rhode Island has put together resources for those in need, which can be found at snapsupport.ri.gov.

Amo is fighting to reopen the government and reverse Republican cuts to the services on which Rhode Islanders rely.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-blasts-trump-for-skyrocketing-health-insurance-costs-as-aca-open-enrollment-begins,Amo Blasts Trump for Skyrocketing Health Insurance Costs as ACA Open Enrollment Begins,2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Providence, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) issued the following statement on the high costs Rhode Islanders will face as open enrollment for Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance through HealthSourceRI begins tomorrow, November 1, 2025.

“Trump and Congressional Republicans' health care crisis means Rhode Island families are facing soaring insurance costs for 2026,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “As open enrollment begins, many Rhode Islanders are being forced to make impossible choices: between affording health care next year and necessities like food and housing. It’s time for Trump and Republicans to demonstrate they care by moving quickly to negotiate with Democrats to reopen the government and lower health care costs.”

Background

Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans are inflicting a systematic health care crisis on the American people. If Republicans let the tax credits that help millions of Americans afford their health care through the Affordable Care Act expire, more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders will see their health insurance costs rise exponentially.

Open enrollment for health coverage through Rhode Island’s Affordable Care Act exchange, HealthSource RI, begins on November 1, 2025. You can visit the HealthSource RI website to learn more and explore your coverage options.

Congressman Amo has voted to protect Rhode Islanders’ health care since being sworn in to Congress in 2023. He voted against Republicans’ Big, Ugly Law, which stripped more than $1.5 trillion from America's health care system in July after speaking against the bill at 3 am, not once but twice.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-statement-on-court-orders-on-trump-s-illegal-withholding-of-snap-funds,Amo Statement on Court Orders on Trump’s Illegal Withholding of SNAP Funds,2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“Trump’s choice to withhold SNAP funds from American families amidst the ongoing Republican government shutdown was always cruel and illegal. Now the President and USDA must act. I am hopeful because our federal courts have stepped in to force Trump to pay November SNAP benefits. Nonprofit and municipal leaders from across Rhode Island showed great courage in bringing a case to force Trump to make sure families are fed. And thanks to Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha for joining with Attorneys General to make clear Rhode Islanders won’t accept our neighbors going hungry. Trump must act quickly, without any further delay and comply with this order. We must continue holding Trump accountable, and I will continue to fight on behalf of Rhode Islanders.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-joins-rhode-island-jewish-leaders-denouncing-antisemitism-bigotry-and-hazing,"Amo Joins Rhode Island Jewish Leaders Denouncing Antisemitism, Bigotry, and Hazing",2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Smithfield, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) stood shoulder-to-shoulder with members of the Rhode Island Jewish Community against antisemitism and hate.

“Antisemitism has no place anywhere, not in Smithfield, not in Rhode Island, not in the world,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “We have seen an alarming trend of rising antisemitism, and now more than ever must reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that no Rhode Islander of any age is targeted because of who they are. We can and must do better, so thank you to every person who came out to advocate for the safety of Jewish Rhode Islanders against bigotry and hate. I will continue to carry this commitment to combating antisemitism to Congress and ensure that this moment is not forgotten, but is a catalyst for better days.”

Background

Congressman Amo is a member of the bipartisan House Task Force on Combating Antisemitism.

Since his election to Congress from Rhode Island’s First Congressional District in 2023, Amo has led bipartisan efforts to ensure full funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which provides grants to assist targeted nonprofits, including houses of worship, to increase their security.

He also led bipartisan efforts to push back against President Trump’s pause on drawdowns for funding under the Nonprofit Security Grant Program earlier this year.

Prior to his election to Congress, Amo served as Deputy Director of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs working with mayors and local elected officials to help implement President Biden’s National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-joins-health-care-workers-discuss-health-care-affordability-crisis,Magaziner Joins Health Care Workers to Discuss Health Care Affordability Crisis and Government Shutdown,2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI — Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) joined Rhode Island health care workers to highlight the emerging health care affordability crisis, which is driving up insurance premiums for patients and straining hospital budgets.

During the event, Magaziner joined doctors and representatives from HealthSource RI to discuss the devastating impact that expiring Affordable Care Act tax credits and deep Medicaid cuts will have on hospitals, health care workers, and patients.

View or download photos from the event here.

“Health care costs are skyrocketing,” said Magaziner. “It is time for Republicans in Congress to stop playing political games and extend Affordable Care Act funding, because every day people cannot afford to have their health insurance costs go up by thousands of dollars a year.”

“The shutdown is already hurting Rhode Islanders, but the consequences will be far greater if ACA subsidies disappear. We share Congressman Magaziner’s concern that losing this support would devastate families and further strain an already fragile health care system,” said Michael Migliori, MD, Chair Rhode Island Medical Society Public Laws Committee.

“Today we are just four days from the start of Open Enrollment, when the grim reality of the APTC expiration coupled with rate increases will hit tens of thousands of Rhode Islanders who purchase health coverage through the state marketplace,” said HealthSource RI Director Lindsay Lang. “Without action on these tax credits, we will all soon begin to see the effects of rising uninsurance, with sicker patients, strained emergency departments, and a cycle of further elevated costs. Keeping the 13,000 or more Rhode Islanders at risk connected to coverage protects not just them, but every Rhode Islander who relies on our fragile healthcare system.”

The event comes just before Magaziner is scheduled to return to Washington, D.C., to fight in Congress to include critical health care funding in the federal budget and end the federal government shutdown. The shutdown coincides with the pending expiration of Affordable Care Act tax credits that help more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders afford their coverage.

Speakers will call for Congress to extend these vital tax credits and reverse nearly $1 trillion in Republican-led Medicaid cuts passed in July. Despite these urgent challenges, Speaker Mike Johnson has not held a vote in the House since September 19.

With open enrollment for HealthSource RI set to begin on November 1, Magaziner and local health care workers outlined the devastating impacts that budget cuts would have on both patients and providers in Rhode Island.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-joins-over-200-house-democrats-in-urging-usda-to-take-immediate-action-to-fund-snap,Amo Joins Over 200 House Democrats in Urging USDA to Take Immediate Action to Fund SNAP,2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Last week, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) joined Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05), House Committee on Agriculture Ranking Member Angie Craig (MN-02), and 211 House Democrats in sending a letter urging U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to use contingency reserve dollars to fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the government shutdown. Thanks to President Donald Trump and Secretary Rollins’ refusal to use contingency funds, SNAP funding is set to lapse on November 1st, putting 42 million children and families, including 144,000 Rhode Islanders, at risk of experiencing hunger.

“Now more than ever, millions of families across the country depend upon the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to make ends meet. For far too many veterans, seniors, and children, SNAP benefits are the difference between having food or not,” wrote the Members. “Now, due to the government shutdown, they are facing crippling levels of uncertainty about whether they will be able to afford food next month. A potential lapse in benefits would be felt by Americans of all ages and affect every corner and congressional district in the country.”

“We urge USDA to use these funds for November SNAP benefits and issue clear guidance to states on how to navigate benefit issuance. Additionally, while the contingency reserve will not cover November benefits in full, we urge USDA to use its statutory transfer authority or any other legal authority at its disposal to supplement these dollars and fully fund November benefits. There are clear steps the administration can and must take immediately to ensure that millions of families across the country can put food on their tables in November. Choosing not to ensure SNAP benefits reach those in need this November would be a gross dereliction of your responsibilities to the American people.”

Full text of the letter is available here.

Despite claims by Donald Trump and Republicans, there is sufficient funding and legal authority to use the SNAP contingency reserve to cover nearly two-thirds of the amount needed for a full month of benefits. As such, the Members also advocate that the agency use statutory transfer authority or other legal means to supplement shortfalls the contingency reserve cannot cover.

Background

Congressman Amo, a member of the House Budget Committee, has fought to protect Americans’ SNAP benefits and nutrition assistance.

Amo recently introduced theContinuity and Reimbursement for Essential Nutrition (CARE) for WIC During Shutdowns Act to ensure states’ that fill the federal funding gap for WIC during a government shutdown are reimbursed and can continue to provide vital nutrition services, whether or not Republicans show up to work.

In addition to the chaos of their government shutdown, Republicans’ Big, Ugly Law cut $187 billion in funding from SNAP, threatening to kick over 35,000 Rhode Islanders off the program, leaving working families even more vulnerable to Trump and Republicans’ cost of living crisis. The Trump administration is also forcing states to comply with some of the harshest red tape imposed on SNAP in decades by November 1, making it more difficult for those up to age 65, including veterans, caregivers, and parents, to access benefits.

Since Trump and Republicans began their efforts to decimate America’s social safety net, Amo has visited food pantries across the First Congressional District, which expect to see a further spike in need as SNAP benefit cuts take effect at a time when Trump’s tariffs have caused grocery prices to jump dramatically.

Amo is fighting to reopen the government and reverse Republican cuts to the services working Rhode Islanders rely on.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-presents-purple-heart-and-other-military-honors-family-wwii-veteran,Magaziner Presents Purple Heart and Other Military Honors to Family of WWII Veteran,2025-10-24,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WARWICK, RI – U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) presented the Purple Heart Medal and other military honors to the family of U.S. Navy veteran Richard Wellington Vertz, who was killed in action during World War II. Magaziner’s staff secured the reissuance of Purple Heart for the family after it was lost, and in the process, discovered other awards earned by the veteran.

Magaziner presented the Purple Heart, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and Honorable Service Lapel Pin to Sylvia Duxbury during a small presentation ceremony.

Duxbury’s uncle, Richard Wellington Vertz, served in the U.S. Navy and was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart after being killed in action near Okinawa in 1945. The Purple Heart was presented to Vertz’s family shortly after his death but was lost over the years.

80 years later, Duxbury contacted Magaziner’s office to request assistance in getting the Purple Heart reissued. After correspondence with the Navy, Magaziner’s office secured a replacement for the Purple Heart award and secured the other medals earned by Vertz that his family had never previously received.

“Richard Wellington Vertz represents the very best of our country, giving his life near Okinawa during World War II to protect the freedoms we hold close,” said Magaziner. “His bravery, and his family’s dedication to preserving his legacy, are truly commendable. I am honored to have helped replace Mr. Vertz’s Purple Heart and ensure his service is recognized with the medals he rightfully earned.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-joins-amicus-brief-supreme-court-opposing-trump-tariffs,Magaziner Joins Amicus Brief to Supreme Court Opposing Trump Tariffs,2025-10-23,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner (RI-02), along with other Democratic colleagues, filed an amicus brief with the United States Supreme Court challenging President Donald Trump’s sweeping and chaotic tariffs.

The brief reaffirms Congress’s constitutional authority over trade policy and challenges President Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose sweeping tariffs that are driving up costs for Rhode Islanders.

“Rhode Islanders are being hurt by President Trump’s sweeping tariffs, which are driving up the cost of food, energy, and other everyday essentials,” said Magaziner. “I am filing an amicus brief with the United States Supreme Court to bring down prices that are straining Americans’ pocketbooks and affirm Congress’ role as a co-equal branch of government.”

Magaziner previously joined amicus briefs standing up for Congress ‘constitutional tariff authority in Oregon, et al., v. Trump, et al., which was ruled against Trump in the U.S. Court of International Trade and affirmed in the U.S. Court of Appeals. Now, the case is before the Supreme Court.

The lawmakers’ brief stands up for Congress’s Article I power to impose tariffs and regulate commerce, and argues that IEEPA does not give the President the power to impose his tariffs that have raised costs for Rhode Island’s working people and businesses. IEEPA, enacted in 1977, grants the president the authority to impose sanctions, block foreign assets, and regulate economic transactions in response to a declared national emergency. However, the lawmakers argue, IEEPA is not a tariff statute and it does not give the President free rein to unilaterally execute his trade policy. The case was originally brought forward by 12 States’ Attorneys General.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-meets-with-emergency-doctors-anticipating-deluge-of-patients-from-republicans-shutdown-and-attacks-on-primary-care-access,Amo Meets with Emergency Doctors Anticipating Deluge of Patients from Republicans’ Shutdown and Attacks on Primary Care Access,2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Providence, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI-01) toured the pediatric and adult emergency departments at Rhode Island Hospital and Hasbro Children’s Hospital in Providence. Congressman Amo spoke with emergency department providers amid the health care crisis caused by Trump and Congressional Republicans. Their Big, Ugly Law cut over $1 trillion from America’s health care system, and Republicans shut down the government rather than extend the health care tax credits that help 41,000 Rhode Islanders afford their health insurance through the state’s Affordable Care Act exchange, HealthSource RI. The expected spike in uninsured Rhode Islanders, compounded by Republicans’ broader attacks on state health care systems, is likely to drive patients to receive basic care from emergency rooms, overwhelming already strained systems.

“Emergency rooms are a vital part of our health care system. They should be focused on treating emergencies, not primary care,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI-01). “Republicans’ assault on our health care system is expected to force desperate parents with a feverish child or a senior needing a prescription to head to the emergency room or to forgo care altogether. Doctors are bracing for Republicans’ callousness to overwhelm hospitals and force Rhode Islanders to make impossible decisions about which of their basic needs to meet. Trump and Congressional Republicans must reopen the government, stop the health crisis, and lower costs.”

“We are grateful to Congressman Amo, and the Rhode Island delegation, for their continued support for our hospitals, physicians, nurses and others who care for our families and communities across the state, ” said Sarah Frost, President of Rhode Island Hospital and Chief of Brown University Health Hospital Operations. “Low Medicaid reimbursements already impact our ability to recruit, retain, and fairly compensate our health care teams, while we also manage rising costs for technology, supplies and infrastructure which further strain hospital budgets. Our state’s health care crisis will worsen if Medicaid and other critical healthcare supports are further cut.”

Background

Congressman Amo has voted to protect Rhode Islanders’ health care since being sworn in to Congress in 2023. He voted against Republicans’ Big, Ugly Law, which stripped more than $1.5 trillion from America's health care system in July after speaking against the bill at 3 am, not once but twice.

Since the Republicans shut down the government rather than help Americans afford their health insurance, Amo has met with impacted Rhode Islanders across the First Congressional District. He visited Brown’s Legorreta Cancer Center, where clinicians have been forced to stop enrolling patients in clinical trials because of the Republican shutdown. Behavioral health leaders at Butler Hospital shared how Medicaid cuts would limit many vulnerable Rhode Islanders’ ability to access mental and behavioral health care. Dozens of Rhode Islanders have also shared personal stories about how skyrocketing health care costs will impact them.

However, Republicans remain intent on stealing from Rhode Islanders’ pockets. Rhode Islanders are currently receiving notices with their new health insurance costs for next year. Due to Republican inaction, some Rhode Islanders can expect to see a 200% increase in monthly premium costs, adding further strain to family budgets already taking a hit from Trump and Republicans’ cost of living crisis.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/ri-delegation-forgoing-pay-during-trump-shutdown,RI Delegation Forgoing Pay During Trump Shutdown,2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – In a show of solidarity with federal workers impacted by the ‘Trump Shutdown,’ all four members of Rhode Island’s Congressional delegation have requested that their Congressional pay be withheld for the duration of the federal government shutdown as they fight to re-open the government and bring down health care costs for Rhode Islanders.

Emphasizing the need for a bipartisan solution to responsibly reopen the government and save Americans’ health care, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo have all publicly announced they will decline their paychecks until the federal government is reopened and public servants are paid.

President Trump and Congressional Republicans initiated the federal shutdown on October 1 and continue refusing to negotiate with Senate Democrats over a plan to responsibly fund the government and save health care for millions of Americans. Throughout the federal shutdown, all four Congressional offices have remained fully open. The U.S. Senate has remained in session and continues to vote while House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has kept the House in an extended recess.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-hosts-telephone-town-hall-health-care-affordability-crisis-amid,Magaziner Hosts Telephone Town Hall on Health Care Affordability Crisis Amid Government Shutdown,2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WARWICK, RI – Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) connected with more than 11,000 constituents from across Rhode Island’s Second Congressional District during a telephone town hall focused on the ongoing health care affordability crisis and the federal government shutdown.

This town hall comes as Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits are set to expire at the end of the year, which help 22 million Americans, including more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders, afford health insurance. The expiration of these credits, combined with nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts passed in July, will result in fewer people being covered and send a ripple effect throughout the health care system, driving up costs for everyone – regardless of their insurance type.

During the call, Magaziner emphasized the serious impact these cuts will have on Rhode Island families. For example, a family of four in Rhode Island earning $130,000 a year with insurance from the state health exchange will see their monthly health insurance costs rise by an average of nearly $7,000 per year if the ACA tax credits expire (source).

“Tonight’s telephone town hall demonstrated that Rhode Islanders are still deeply concerned about the cost of living, from health care to groceries to energy costs, and cannot afford a partisan budget that causes health insurance costs to skyrocket,” said Magaziner. “I value every opportunity to hear directly from my constituents and want Rhode Islanders to know that I remain committed to returning to passing a budget that will reopen the government and address the health care cost crisis.”

Magaziner has hosted four telephone town halls and two in-person town halls this year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-visits-wellone-health-center-discuss-health-care-affordability,Magaziner Visits WellOne Health Center to Discuss Health Care Affordability Crisis Amid Government Shutdown,2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"PASCOAG, RI – Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) visited WellOne Health Center in Pascoag to meet with health care providers about the ongoing health care affordability crisis and the importance of including federal health care funding in Congress’s budget.

The visit comes as health insurance costs are poised to spike significantly for tens of thousands of Rhode Islanders due to the expiration of Affordable Care Act tax credits and cuts to Medicaid passed by Congressional Republicans over the summer. Disagreements about the level of health care funding in the budget have led to a government shutdown, now in its 22nd day. Magaziner has repeatedly called on his colleagues in Congress to support a budget agreement that addresses rising health care costs.

“Today’s discussion with health care leaders at WellOne made clear that we urgently need to support health care providers and ensure they can keep their doors open while lowering costs for Rhode Island patients,” said Magaziner. “I’m calling on my colleagues to return to Washington, reopen the government, and extend Affordable Care Act tax credits that help Rhode Islanders afford their coverage and support the health care providers who care for people in our state.”

""We are grateful to Congressman Magaziner for taking the time to see our work in action. His visit is a testament to the importance of community health centers, and we appreciate his partnership as we continue our mission to serve the health needs of the Rhode Island communities that we serve in an increasingly challenging environment"" said Peter Bancroft, WellOne President and CEO.

This event comes as Affordable Care Act tax credits are set to expire at the end of this year unless Congress acts to keep them in place. The credits currently help 22 million Americans, including more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders who have commercial insurance plans through HealthSource RI, afford their health coverage.

During the meeting, Magaziner and leaders emphasized that if tax credits expire, Rhode Islanders will face steep premium increases, and the loss of federal health care funding will ripple through the health care system, impacting hospitals and providers and raising health insurance costs for everyone.

In addition, health care costs are rising due to deep cuts to Medicaid passed by Congressional Republicans earlier this year, which will kick 15 million people off their health insurance. All these factors are contributing to a health care affordability crisis that is now compounded by a government shutdown.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/ri-delegation-forgoing-pay-during-trump-shutdown,RI Delegation Forgoing Pay During Trump Shutdown,2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – In a show of solidarity with federal workers impacted by the ‘Trump Shutdown,’ all four members of Rhode Island’s Congressional delegation have requested that their Congressional pay be withheld for the duration of the federal government shutdown as they fight to re-open the government and bring down health care costs for Rhode Islanders.

Emphasizing the need for a bipartisan solution to responsibly reopen the government and save Americans’ health care, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo have all publicly announced they will decline their paychecks until the federal government is reopened and public servants are paid.

President Trump and Congressional Republicans initiated the federal shutdown on October 1 and continue refusing to negotiate with Senate Democrats over a plan to responsibly fund the government and save health care for millions of Americans. Throughout the federal shutdown, all four Congressional offices have remained fully open. The U.S. Senate has remained in session and continues to vote while House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has kept the House in an extended recess.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-tours-ri-food-bank-seeing-need-spike-caused-by-republican-shutdown-and-snap-cuts,Amo Tours RI Food Bank Seeing Need Spike Caused by Republican Shutdown and SNAP Cuts,2025-10-20,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) toured the Rhode Island Community Food Bank and met with Rhode Islanders harmed by President Donald Trump and Republicans’ shutdown and cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). President Trump and Congressional Republicans’ Big, Ugly Law cut $187 billion in funding from SNAP, stripping millions of Americans of their ability to put food on the table. The massive cuts to SNAP and Trump’s tariffs, which are driving up grocery costs, are being compounded by the Republican government shutdown, which is putting November benefit payments at risk for millions.

“Trump and Republicans are hellbent on making Americans sicker, poorer, and hungrier,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Republicans ran on lowering costs, instead their Big, Ugly Law assaults food and health programs on which Americans’ rely. And now, this Republican shutdown is risking Rhode Islanders ability to put food on the table as we head into the holiday season. Thank you to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank for stepping up, I will continue working around the clock to reopen the government, stop the cuts, lower costs, and save health care.”

Background

SNAP is a lifeline for nearly 42 million Americans, helping families put food on the table when times get tough. But, because of the Republican shutdown, states may not be able to send out benefit payments families rely on in November. Republicans’ refusal to come to the table to negotiate a deal to save Americans health care and open the government, may now force millions to go hungry.

In the Big Ugly Law, Republicans cut $187 billion in funding from SNAP, threatening to kick over 30,000 Rhode Islanders off the program, leaving working families even more vulnerable to Trump and Republicans’ cost of living crisis. The Trump Administration is also forcing states to comply with some of the harshest red tape imposed on SNAP in decades by November 1, making it more difficult for those up to age 65, including veterans, caregivers, and parents, to access benefits.

Lower SNAP benefits and higher prices at the grocery store from Trump’s tariffs are expected to drive more people to rely on local food pantries to feed their families. Thanks to Republicans’ cruelty, approximately 4 million Americans, including 1 million children, will lose some or all of their SNAP benefits.

Congressman Amo, a member of the Budget Committee, introduced amendments to protect SNAP from Republican cuts as they rammed their Big, Ugly Law through Congress.

Since Trump and Republicans began their efforts to decimate America’s social safety net, Amo has visited food pantries across the First Congressional District, who expect to see a further spike in need as SNAP benefit cuts take effect at a time when Trump’s tariffs have caused grocery prices to jump dramatically.

Amo is fighting to reopen the government and reverse Republican cuts to the services working Rhode Islanders rely on. He recently introduced a bill to ensure states’ that fill the federal funding gap for WIC during a government shutdown get reimbursed and can continue to provide vital nutrition services, whether or not Republicans show up to work.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-meets-with-behavioral-mental-health-leaders-about-ruinous-republican-shutdown-and-attacks-on-health-care,Amo Meets with Behavioral & Mental Health Leaders About Ruinous Republican Shutdown and Attacks on Health Care,2025-10-17,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Providence, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) joined behavioral and mental health leaders at Butler Hospital to discuss how Republican attacks on health care, and their decision to shut down the government rather than address skyrocketing costs, impede Rhode Islanders ability to get care.

Trump and Congressional Republicans' Big, Ugly Law cut more than $1.5 trillion from America’s health care system, raising costs and wait times for Rhode Islanders. The cuts to Medicaid, the largest payer for behavioral health services, will result in loss of access to vital care for vulnerable Americans. Republicans are also letting the Affordable Care Act Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, which help Rhode Islanders afford insurance through HealthSourceRI, expire. Without these health care tax credits, costs will skyrocket for over 40,000 Rhode Islanders, creating even more barriers to accessing affordable mental and behavioral health care.

“Republicans created a health care crisis by stealing $1.5 trillion from our health system through their Big, Ugly Law, shut down the government rather than extending health care tax credits to lower costs for millions of Americans, and then fled Washington,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Republicans are hurting the entire health system, from solo behavioral health providers to cutting-edge academic medical centers. Rather than stopping the cuts and improving access to health care, Trump and Republicans are raising barriers and forcing Americans to choose between the care they need and the ever-increasing costs of daily life Republicans are causing.”

“We are grateful to Congressman Amo and the entire RI Federal Delegation for their unwavering support at this critical time for hospitals across the state, as we are facing unprecedented financial and workforce challenges,” said Mary Marran, President and COO, Butler Hospital. “Congressman Amo has shown us a clear understanding of the importance of protecting access to care for our patients. Looming Medicaid cuts and loss of critical healthcare supports will jeopardize services for our most vulnerable neighbors and further strain an already fragile health system. These are not abstract policy decisions; they are real threats to the health and well-being of our communities.”

Background

Congressman Amo has voted to protect Rhode Islanders’ health care since being sworn in to Congress in 2023. He voted against Republicans’ Big, Ugly Law, which stripped more than $1 trillion from America's health care system in July after speaking against the bill at 3 am, not once but twice.

But Republicans remain intent on stealing from Rhode Islanders’ pockets. This week, Rhode Islanders will receive letters in the mail with their new health insurance costs for next year. Due to Republican inaction, for some Rhode Islanders, these letters will show a 200% increase in monthly premium costs, adding further strain to family budgets already taking a hit from Trump and Republicans’ cost of living crisis.

Since the Republicans shut down the government rather than help Americans afford their health insurance, Amo has met with impacted Rhode Islanders across the First Congressional District.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/reed-amo-met-with-rhode-island-small-business-owners-worried-about-trump-and-republicans-looming-health-cost-hikes,"Reed, Amo Met with Rhode Island Small Business Owners Worried About Trump and Republicans’ Looming Health Cost Hikes",2025-10-14,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Warren, RI – TODAY, Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI-01) joined small business owners in Warren to discuss their fears about Republicans' refusal to lower health costs and reopen the federal government. Approximately 7,000 small business owners in Rhode Island rely on the ACA for health insurance. Republicans are letting Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, which make ACA health insurance plans through HealthSourceRI affordable for countless small business owners, expire.

The group of business owners shared that without these tax credits, they will have to make impossible choices, and some may forgo purchasing health insurance altogether.

“Costs are what matters to Rhode Islanders, and it’s time President Trump finally joins Democrats in preventing a huge jump in health care costs,” said Senator Jack Reed (D-RI). “The Trump policy of raising tariffs, slashing investments in our future, and ignoring the everyday problems of families must end. Democrats have a plan to reopen the government and prevent small businesses and families from losing health care. This situation only ends when the Trump Administration makes it a priority.”

“Access to affordable health care means Rhode Islanders can operate the small businesses that are the heartbeat of our main streets,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Republicans’ refusal to lower costs will leave many small business owners unable to afford health insurance. No Rhode Islander should have to make the impossible choice between health coverage and other essential expenses like food and housing. Republicans must step up and negotiate to stop the cuts, lower costs, and save health care.”

“As a small business owner living with cancer, I know firsthand how critical having health insurance is,” said Uriah Donnelly, co-owner of arc{hive}, a used bookstore and cafe in Warren. “It was great to host Senator Reed, Congressman Amo, and other small business owners for a conversation about how important extending health care tax credits are for us and our employees.”

“Small business owners are working to make our communities better, but we’re struggling,” said Aliya Johnson, owner of Del’s Lemonade of Warren. “And many of us cannot afford a large increase in our health care costs. It was good to share our concerns with other business owners, Congressman Amo, and Senator Reed and I hope they take our stories back to Washington to continue fighting for our health care.”

Background

Senator Reed has voted seven times to fund the federal government and protect Americans’ health care, but Senate Republicans have blocked those efforts, even as some Senate Republicans begin to acknowledge they must act “sooner rather than later” before open enrollment begins November 1.

Congressman Amo has voted to protect Rhode Islanders health care since being sworn in to Congress in 2023. He voted against Republicans’ Big, Ugly Law, which stripped $1 trillion from America's health care system in July after speaking against the bill at 3 am not once but twice. But Republicans remain intent on stealing from Rhode Islanders’ pockets. Without action, health care premium costs will increase by as much as 200% or more for many Rhode Islanders. Since the Republicans shut down the government rather than help Americans afford their health insurance, Amo has met with impacted Rhode Islanders across the First Congressional District.

After the event, Senator Reed flew back to Washington, DC where Senate Republicans have declared they will no longer allow Democrats to keep calling up their own stopgap spending bill funding the government, instead forcing votes only on the Republican-led alternative which lacks strong bipartisan support.

Congressman Amo also returned to Washington to continue fighting for a deal that opens the government, stops the cuts, lowers costs, and saves health care.

Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) continues to keep the House out of session this week. He is preventing the newest member of Congress, Representative-elect Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ), from being sworn in and preventing her from becoming the 218th signature on the petition to allow a vote on the release of the Epstein files.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-statement-on-israel-hamas-ceasefire-agreement,Amo Statement on Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Agreement,2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“The initial ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas is welcome and hopeful news after two years of war and the unspeakable pain this conflict has wrought. This meaningful step moves the region closer to the lasting peace and security that Israelis and Palestinians deserve. It is long past time to end the violence, see the safe return of the hostages, and surge essential humanitarian aid to stop the suffering of civilians in Gaza.

I await the details of the plan and how the United States will support the global effort to execute it. The process of rebuilding will be difficult, but it is essential that we are undeterred by the size and scale of the task. I urge all parties to work in good faith towards a comprehensive, permanent, and lasting resolution of the conflict, leading to a more encouraging, optimistic future, not driven by fear, for Palestinians and Israelis alike.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-statement-israel-and-hamas-reaching-initial-ceasefire-agreement,Magaziner Statement on Israel and Hamas Reaching an Initial Ceasefire Agreement,2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WARWICK, RI – Today U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) released the following statement in response to the announcement of Israel and Hamas agreeing to the first phase of a ceasefire deal.

“After two years of immense suffering, the signing of an initial agreement between Israel and Hamas for the return of the remaining Israeli hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza is welcome and joyful news. I am hopeful that it marks the beginning of a permanent end to this devastating conflict.

Much work remains to ensure this initial agreement turns into a permanent resolution of the conflict and a fair and lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians. In the short term, the return of the hostages must proceed immediately and aid needs to drastically increase and flow unimpeded into Gaza to address the dire humanitarian crisis.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-visits-south-county-hospital-meet-health-care-providers,Magaziner Visits South County Hospital to Meet with Health Care Providers on Affordability Crisis,2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WAKEFIELD, RI – Today U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) visited South County Hospital in Wakefield to meet with health care providers. The discussion focused on the urgent need to address rising health care costs as Congress considers whether to include continued health care funding in the federal budget.

The visit comes as Magaziner continues to push the Republican-controlled Congress and White House to confront the health care affordability crisis in a government funding spending agreement, including calling for a reversal of nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts passed in July the extension of critical Affordable Care Act tax credits set to expire at the end of this year.

This week and last, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson canceled scheduled votes even as the government shutdown continues and the health care crisis remains unaddressed. Today’s event followed Magaziner’s visits last week to Kent Hospital and the Tri-CountyCommunity Action Agency to highlight the need for Congress to return to Washington to address the health care affordability crisis. During today’s event, Magaziner reaffirmed his commitment to reopening the government, protecting health care for Rhode Islanders, and passing a budget that ends the shutdown.

“We need urgent action to lower costs, protect the health care system, and reopen the government,” said Magaziner. “Instead of addressing the health care affordability crisis facing Rhode Islanders, President Trump and House Republicans have shut down the government and extended their vacation. I am here to hear directly from local health care providers about how Medicaid cuts and the loss of critical Affordable Care Act tax credits will impact all Rhode Islanders, and call for urgent action to bring down costs.”

“Federal policy changes, including cuts to Medicare and Medicaid, will significantly affect how healthcare is delivered across Rhode Island. It is critical for residents to specifically understand that these cuts will directly impact hospitals’ and healthcare systems’ ability to provide the access to care they have come to rely on. While the uncertainty is concerning—especially for community hospitals and the patients we serve—South County Health remains committed to working with our state and federal delegations to advocate for policies that strengthen, not weaken, local access to care,” said Aaron Robinson, President & CEO, South County Health.

You can view or download photos from the event here.

BACKGROUND

This event comes as Affordable Care Act tax credits are set to expire at the end of this year unless Congress acts to keep them in place. The credits currently help 22 million Americans, including more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders who have commercial insurance plans through HealthSource RI, afford their health coverage.

During the event, Magaziner emphasized that if tax credits expire, Rhode Islanders will face steep premium increases, and the loss of federal health care funding will ripple through the health care system, impacting hospitals and providers and raising health insurance costs for everyone.

In addition, health care costs are rising due to deep cuts to Medicaid passed by Congressional Republicans earlier this year, which will kick 15 million people off their health insurance. All these factors are contributing to a health care affordability crisis that is now compounded by a government shutdown.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-leads-49-colleagues-introducing-legislation-to-protect-nutrition-assistance-for-women-infants-and-children-during-republican-government-shutdown,"Amo Leads 49 Colleagues Introducing Legislation to Protect Nutrition Assistance for Women, Infants, and Children During Republican Government Shutdown",2025-10-08,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Image

October 8, 2025

Bill guarantees WIC funding reimbursement for states if Republican shutdown is prolonged, supporting nutrition for millions of Americans, including over 18,000 Rhode Islanders

Central Falls, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) announced the Continuity and Reimbursement for Essential Nutrition (CARE) for WIC During Shutdowns Act during a tour of Children’s Friend in Central Falls. Amo discussed the importance of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), a federal nutrition program that provides nutritious foods to nearly 7 million pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to 5 years old.

Amo’s CARE for WIC During Shutdowns Act would ensure states are reimbursed for any shortfall in federal WIC funding caused by a government shutdown. As of 2024, over 18,000 Rhode Islanders are enrolled, and an estimated 38,000 are eligible for WIC. Nearly 40 percent of all infants in the U.S. benefit from WIC.

“Children and expectant or postpartum mothers need to eat whether or not Congressional Republicans choose to help,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Seeing the critical WIC nutrition services Children’s Friend delivers to Rhode Island families, further reinforced the need for my CARE for WIC During Shutdowns Act. This legislation ensures states have certainty that they will receive federal government reimbursement after a government shutdown if they step in and use state funds to temporarily fund WIC. I’m fighting in Congress to make sure every Rhode Island mom, mom-to-be, and child sees no disruption to WIC even if Republicans shut down the government.”

“WIC is one of the best ways we can ensure babies, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, and children have adequate nutrition,” said Lucia Santiago, Director of Nutrition Services at Children’s Friend. “For now, our services are operating, but there is so much uncertainty and confusion. We can’t afford for these families to slip through the cracks.”

Background

Continuity and Reimbursement for Essential Nutrition (CARE) for WIC During Shutdowns Act

During previous federal government shutdowns, some states stepped up to continue WIC services using their general funds when federal funding for WIC ran out. In those instances, the federal government reimbursed states once the government reopened. However, reimbursement is not guaranteed under current law and will depend on administrative discretion.

During this Republican government shutdown, states cannot simply rely on the word of President Donald Trump and Republicans who have shown time and again that they will go the extra mile to hurt vulnerable Americans.

The CARE for WIC During Shutdowns Act would provide certainty for states by ensuring states can keep providing WIC and are reimbursed after a government shutdown, regardless of who is in charge.

Original sponsors of the CARE for WIC During Shutdowns Act include: Representatives Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Greg Landsman (OH-01), James Walkinshaw (VA-11), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Troy Carter (LA-02), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Shomari Figures (AL-02), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Shontel Brown (OH-11), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Summer Lee (PA-12), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Mike Thompson (CA-04), André Carson (IN-07), Alma Adams (NC-12), Herb Conaway (NJ-03), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), John Larson (CT-01), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Sarah McBride (DE-AL), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Wesley Bell (MO-01)

Republicans and WIC

As Trump’s tariffs continue to hike grocery prices, the last thing families need is more barriers to accessing basic nutrition. Trump promised to lower costs for working families on day one; yet, food is more expensive now than it was a year ago, making programs like WIC more essential than ever.

Speaker Mike Johnson recently stated that the “WIC program is something that we all champion.” Additionally, OMB Director Russ Vought warned WIC may pause without a government funding deal. In advance of this Republican Government shutdown, the White House threatened WIC funding with the false claim, “By instigating a government shutdown, Democrats are turning their backs on WIC recipients.”

Trump and RFK Jr. love to talk about healthy diets and the importance of nutritious foods for families. But Trump’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 budget plan seeks to slash WIC funding by nearly $300 million, cutting benefits for breastfeeding mothers from $52 to $13 and reducing the program’s Fruits and Vegetables Benefit or Cash Value to its lowest levels since 2001.

The House Republican FY26 budget proposes an effective cut for the program by maintaining the same funding level as FY2025, seeking to rescind $100 million from carryover balances from FY2025 funding, and making a 10 percent reduction in the WIC Cash Value benefit.

Republicans’ Big, Ugly Law caused changes to Medicaid and SNAP that indirectly harm WIC through adjunctive eligibility. WIC relies on families proving participation in programs like Medicaid or SNAP to streamline access to benefits. Limiting Medicaid and SNAP, as Republicans did in their law, forces families to provide separate income documentation, increasing red tape and reducing access. This added burden could discourage WIC enrollment and leave families without critical nutrition support.

Over 8 million women and children qualify for WIC through adjunctive eligibility each month. More than 3 million could lose WIC access entirely if they lose Medicaid due to changes in the Big, Ugly Law.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-fights-for-lower-health-costs-during-republican-shutdown,Amo Fights for Lower Health Costs During Republican Shutdown,2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – Through the 7 Days of Republicans’ government shutdown, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) has met with countless Rhode Islanders impacted by Trump’s latest chaos. Since Trump took office and Republicans took control of the House and the Senate, they have cut more than $1 trillion from America’s health care system in their Big, Ugly law and shut down the government rather than extend health care assistance for 22 million Americans.

“Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans are dead set on making Americans sicker and poorer. They chose to shut down the government rather than help 40,000 Rhode Islanders afford their health care,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “From ‘repeal and replace’ to ‘concepts of a plan’ to Speaker Johnson’s lies about our health system on national TV, the American people know Republicans do not care about lowering costs and helping people. I am going to keep fighting for the countless Rhode Islanders who are waiting longer for and left without federal services they rely on during this Republican shutdown.”

Congressman Amo visited the Legoretta Cancer Center at Brown University. He met with researchers and clinicians whose research and ability to treat patients has been stymied by Trump’s cuts to research funding and shutdown, which prevents patients from enrolling in new clinical trials.

Congressman Amo also visited United Way of Rhode Island’s 211 Call Center which connects struggling Rhode Islanders to needed resources including rent payment assistance, nutrition assistance, disability resources, and utility assistance. Call center staff shared that they faced a 30% increase in call volume on the first day of the government shutdown.

Congressman Amo visited Coast Guard Members at Coast Guard Station Castle Hill in Newport. He dropped off a token of appreciation to thank the Coast Guard Members for continuing their work to keep Rhode Island’s waters safe even as the Republican shutdown meant they are working without pay.

Congressman Amo joined families and advocates for the Northern RI Out of the Darkness Walk to Prevent Suicide to discuss the need to extend lifesaving health care assistance that helps more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders afford their monthly health care payments and access mental health care.

Congressman Amo met with leaders in the blind and low vision community at the 55th Annual National Federation of the Blind Rhode Island Convention. Attendees shared just how critical Medicaid is to ensuring accessibility for every Rhode Islander. Congressman Amo shared how he’s fighting to reverse Medicaid cuts and to ensure Republicans don’t let health care tax credits expire.

To see how the Republican government shutdown left veterans without service, Congressman Amo visited the shuttered Providence VA Regional Benefit Office. The Republican shutdown is leaving staff without pay and Veterans without services.

Background

Information about the impacts of the Republican government shutdown is available on Congressman Amo’s website.

Amo has long advocated for expanding the Affordable Care Act, investing in Medicare and Medicaid, and ensuring every American has access to affordable health care.

In advance of the Republican government shutdown, Amo rallied with health care providers, patients, and community leaders at Blackstone Valley Community Health Care to demand Republicans extend cost-saving Affordable Care Act health insurance tax credits that help Americans afford health care.

Amo and Congressman Seth Magaziner joined Rhode Island health care leaders to call for urgent action to address the rising cost of health insurance in the state.

On July 3, 2025, Amo voted no on the Big, Ugly Law, which cut $1 trillion from Americans’ health care system, after speaking outagainst the bill on the House Floor at 3:45 AM.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-statement-marking-two-years-october-7-attack-israel-hamas,Magaziner Statement Marking Two Years Since October 7 Attack on Israel by Hamas,2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WARWICK, RI – Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) released the following statement on the two-year anniversary of the October 7 terrorist attacks on Israel by Hamas:

“Today marks two years since the horrific October 7 terrorist attacks on Israel by Hamas, the single deadliest day for Jewish people since the Holocaust and a day we will never forget.

We grieve the victims, hold their families in our prayers, and demand the return of the hostages that have endured two years of suffering.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/ranking-members-thompson-magaziner-and-correa-condemn-trump-administration,"Ranking Members Thompson, Magaziner, and Correa Condemn Trump Administration for Diverting Counterterrorism Agents to Suppress Free Speech",2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Ranking Member of the subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence, and Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Border Security & Enforcement, released the following statement on news reports that the Trump Administration used a transnational crime and counterterrorism unit to secretly target people practicing free speech:

“The Trump Administration has dangerously diverted resources from the Department of Homeland Security meant to prevent terrorism to instead target and detain peaceful individuals exercising their First Amendment right to free speech,” the lawmakers said. “Homeland Security Investigations does critical work on serious transnational crimes like drug smuggling, human trafficking, money laundering, and terrorism. But instead of prioritizing those threats, the Trump Administration diverted resources away from critical investigations to illegally arrest and detain people simply for exercising their right to free speech. This is undemocratic, makes our nation less safe, and erodes the constitutional protections of free speech that are the foundation of American democracy.”

BACKGROUND

Recent reporting revealed how the Trump Administration directed Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) analysts away from their typical work on criminal matters and to a so-called “tiger team” for the sole purpose of investigating, surveilling, and detaining students and other individuals based solely on their political opinions. The HSI analysts that were assigned to the tiger team were pulled away from their normal units where they focused on counterterrorism, counterintelligence and cybersecurity. In a federal trial, the head of the intelligence unit at HSI testified that he had never been asked to prepare reports on student activists for exercising their First Amendment right to free speech until the Trump Administration came into power this year. On September 30, 2025, U.S. District Judge William Young in Boston ruled that the Trump Administration’s push to target students was an unconstitutional suppression of free speech that violated the First Amendment.

In one of the cases, Rumeysa Ozturk, a Tufts University graduate student, was encircled by federal agents in plain clothes near her home in Massachusetts and forced into an unmarked vehicle. Ozturk had committed no crime but was arrested for co-writing an op-ed critical of Israel’s conduct in Gaza with other students more than a year earlier. She remained in an ICE detention facility for six weeks until a judge ordered her release citing that the government produced no evidence demonstrating she posed a risk. Trump’s own State Department stated in an internal memo that the Department of Homeland Security produced no evidence demonstrating that Ozturk had engaged in any antisemitic activity or indicated any support for terrorism.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-visits-with-rhode-islanders-impacted-by-republican-shutdown,Amo Visits with Rhode Islanders Impacted by Republican Shutdown,2025-10-02,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Providence, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) visited Brown University’s Legorreta Cancer Center and the United Way 211 Call Center.

President Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans’ government shutdown and the funding cuts in their Big, Ugly Law are jeopardizing cancer research and care.

The Republican shutdown has left patients barred from enrolling in lifesaving cancer research trials. Trump’s proposed budget guts the National Cancer Institute by 37%.

The United Way’s 211 hotline connects Rhode Islanders to resources in times of crisis, like rent payment assistance, nutrition assistance, disability resources, and utility assistance. They’ve faced a 30% increase in call volume on the first day of the government shutdown.

“Trump and Congressional Republicans had a choice. Rather than choose to protect health care affordability for 22 million Americans, including 40,000 Rhode Islanders, they chose to shut down the government, imperiling 8,500 Rhode Islander federal workers’ ability to make ends meet and cutting Americans off from critical services,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “At both the Legorreta Cancer Center and the United Way 211 Call Center, I saw firsthand the immense cost of Republicans’ decision. Researchers stymied in their work to end a ravaging disease and contact center workers tirelessly trying to fill the gap for Americans abandoned by the Republicans who control the House, Senate, and White House. I’m heading back to Washington shortly to continue fighting to open the government and ensure Republicans don’t succeed in their dastardly attempts to jack up health care costs for 22 million Americans.”

“Brown’s Legorreta Cancer Center is leading innovative research and local trials critical to improving cancer care in Rhode Island and across the world,” said Dr. Wafik El-Deiry, Director of the Legorreta Cancer Center and Associate Dean of Oncologic Sciences. “Our team was grateful to speak with Congressman Amo today to discuss funding threats our researchers are experiencing and to brainstorm pathways to support cancer research development in our state to save lives.”

Background

Information about the impacts of the Republican government shutdown is available on Congressman Amo’swebsite.

Republicans shut down the government rather than extend tax credits that help more than 22 million hard-working Americans, including 40,000 Rhode Islanders, afford health insurance through the Affordable Care Act.

Congressman Amo has met with Rhode Islanders across the First Congressional District to discuss Republicans' devastating attacks on health care.

Amo rallied with health care providers, patients, and community leaders at Blackstone Valley Community Health Care to demand Republicans extend cost-saving Affordable Care Act health insurance tax credits that help Americans afford health care.

Amo and Congressman Seth Magaziner joined Rhode Island health care leaders to call for urgent action to address the rising cost of health insurance in the state.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-tours-kent-hospital-meets-leaders-health-care-affordability-crisis,"Magaziner Tours Kent Hospital, Meets with Leaders on Health Care Affordability Crisis",2025-10-02,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WARWICK, RI — U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) today met with Rhode Island health care leaders at Kent Hospital for a roundtable discussion on the urgent need to address rising health care costs as Congress debates the inclusion of continued health care funding in the federal budget. Magaziner and the leaders also toured the hospital’s Acute Care of the Elderly (ACE) Unit.

The roundtable comes as Magaziner continues to push the Republican-controlled Congress and White House to confront the health care affordability crisis in a government funding spending agreement, including calling for a reversal of nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts passed in July and calling for the extension of critical health care tax credits set to expire at the end of this year.

Magaziner spent this week in Washington urging the Republican-controlled Congress and White House to take immediate action to address the health care crisis. House Republicans were not in Washington for the duration of the week when federal government funding lapsed. During today’s event, Magaziner emphasized his commitment to reopening the government, protecting health care forRhode Islanders, and passing a budget that ends the shutdown that began Wednesday.

“We are now in a Republican government shutdown because President Trump and Congressional Republicans have presented the American people with a false choice: either shut down the government or cut millions of people off their health care and drive costs even higher,” said Magaziner. “This is not a choice we need to accept. Rhode Islanders are already facing a health care affordability crisis, and we need urgent action to lower costs, protect the health care system, and reopen the government.”

“As hospitals across Rhode Island face unprecedented financial and workforce challenges, we are grateful to Congressman Magaziner, and the entire RI Federal Delegation, for his steadfast commitment to protecting access to care for our patients. The looming Medicaid cuts and loss of critical healthcare support will jeopardize services for our most vulnerable neighbors and further strain an already fragile health system. By joining us here at Kent Hospital today, Congressman Magaziner is showing that he understands the urgency of this crisis and the need for immediate action. We look forward to working with him and our leaders in Washington to ensure every Rhode Islander can continue to count on affordable, high-quality care close to home,” said Michael Wagner, MD, FACP, President and CEO, Care New England.

You can view or download photos from the event here.

BACKGROUND

This event comes as Affordable Care Act health care tax credits are set to expire at the end of this year unless Congress acts to keep them in place. The credits currently help 22 million Americans, including more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders who have commercial insurance plans through HealthSource RI, afford their health coverage.

During the event, the roundtable participants emphasized that if tax credits expire, working people will face steep premium increases, and the loss of federal health care funding will ripple through our health care system, impacting hospitals and providers and raising health insurance costs for everyone.

In addition, health care costs are rising due to deep cuts to Medicaid passed by Congressional Republicans earlier this year, which will kick 15 million people off their health insurance. All these factors are contributing to a health care affordability crisis that is now compounded by a government shutdown.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-discusses-harms-of-the-republican-shutdown-with-17000-rhode-islanders-on-telephone-town-hall,"Amo Discusses Harms of the Republican Shutdown with 17,000 Rhode Islanders on Telephone Town Hall",2025-10-01,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – LAST NIGHT, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) joined more than 17,000 Rhode Islanders to answer questions and discuss the harms of Republicans' disastrous decision to shut down the government.

“Rhode Islanders don’t need a Republican shutdown, they need their health care protected, ” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Rhode Islanders from Woonsocket to East Providence to Newport shared their fears and frustrations about what this Republican shutdown will do to them and their pocketbooks. Thank you to every Rhode Islander who called in, and know that I’ll keep fighting for you.”

Background

As a result of the Republican government shutdown, a wide range of government services will be disrupted. Information about the impacts of the Republican government shutdown is available on my website.

Republicans are failing to extend tax credits that help more than 22 million hard-working Americans afford health insurance through the Affordable Care Act. Under Republicans' partisan proposal, more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders could see their health care costs increase by 85% or more starting next year. Working families in Rhode Island cannot afford their monthly insurance payments to go up by more than $1,000 a month.

This is the latest Republican attack on health care. Earlier this year, Republicans passed their Big, Ugly Law, which will rip health care coverage away from over 15 million people and cut $1 trillion from our health care system.

Congressman Amo has met with Rhode Islanders across the First Congressional District to discuss these devastating attacks on health care.

Amo rallied with health care providers, patients, and community leaders at Blackstone Valley Community Health Care to demand Republicans extend cost-saving Affordable Care Act health insurance tax credits that help Americans afford health care.

Amo and Congressman Seth Magaziner joined Rhode Island health care leaders to call for urgent action to address the rising cost of health insurance in the state.

HealthSource Rhode Island Director Lindsay Lang shared the impacts of Republicans' partisan funding bill with Congressman Amo in a video saying, ""We're going to see people lose their health insurance"" if Republicans' partisan funding bill is signed into law.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-statement-on-pending-republican-government-shutdown,Amo Statement on Pending Republican Government Shutdown,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) issued the following statement on the pending Republican government shutdown:

“Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans had a choice: protect the ability of 22 million Americans and 40,000 Rhode Islanders to pay for their health care or shut down the government and put millions of federal workers and essential services in jeopardy.

Just like they have done at every turn over the last nine months, Trump and Congressional Republicans — who control the White House, Senate, and the House — chose to stand against the American people.

I spoke with more than 17,000 Rhode Islanders at a telephone town hall tonight about this harmful Republican shutdown and what I am doing to hold Trump accountable.

To end the pending shutdown, Republicans need to negotiate a bipartisan agreement that puts the American people first.

We work for the people who vote for us, who have long said to lower their costs. But Republicans once again stood against the American people and chose to shut the government down.

I stand ready to support Rhode Islanders through the pain that Republicans are causing. Democrats are in Washington to make a deal to stop the cuts, lower costs, and save health care. The time to act is now.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/ri-delegation-announces-234-million-to-remove-hazardous-former-point-street-bridge-pilings-from-providence-river,RI Delegation Announces $2.34 Million to Remove Hazardous Former Point Street Bridge Pilings from Providence River,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo today announced that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has awarded a $2,344,000 grant to the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) to remove toxic and hazardous debris remnants of the old Point Street Bridge from the Providence River.

“This $2.34 million grant will help advance removal of toxic and hazardous debris remnants of the old Point Street Bridge and mitigate the navigational hazards for neighbors, visitors, boaters, and others. Removing this pollution increases safety, supports our local marine ecosystems, and will help further cement Providence’s place as an inviting city to live, work, and visit,” said Reed.

“Old pilings in the Providence River are more than an eyesore – they create pollution and impede navigation. I am very glad CRMC and the Nature Conservancy have this federal funding to finally clear decaying debris from the gateway to our capital city,” said Whitehouse, a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee and a longtime champion for cleaning up marine debris in the Ocean State and around the world.

“Removing hazardous debris from the Providence River is good for the environment, the local economy, and Rhode Islanders’ quality of life,” said Magaziner, member of House Natural Resources Committee. “This new federal funding will make the river safer for boaters and strengthen Providence’s waterfront for residents and visitors alike.”

“The deteriorating wooden pilings from the former Point Street Bridge pollute the Providence River and impede marine navigation,” said Amo, Ranking Member of the Environment Subcommittee, which oversees NOAA’s climate and weather-related work. “In collaboration with our Rhode Island Congressional Delegation, I'm thrilled to celebrate federal funding from NOAA to clear these pilings and restore the ecosystem. I will continue to fight in Congress to support NOAA and ensure Rhode Islanders have clean, easy-to-navigate waterways.”

Built in 1927, the old Point Street Bridge spanned 529 feet across the Providence River and was originally protected by a wooden timber fender system. The bridge is no longer operational, and its severely deteriorated wooden timbers remain in place, posing risks to the environment and navigation. CRMC will partner with the Rhode Island chapter of the Nature Conservancy to remove approximately 250 tons of creosote timbers, swing station pilings, and sub-aquatic bridge debris. This cleanup will help restore the ecosystem and result in healthier fisheries across the Narragansett Bay Estuary. The project will also enhance navigational safety and restore the natural viewshed, supporting tourism and recreation in Providence’s vibrant waterfront district.

The grant comes from NOAA’s Marine Debris Program alongside more than $26.4 million in federal funding for 13 new projects to remove large marine debris in communities across the country. Funding for the Marine Debris Program was included in Democrats’ historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Senators Reed and Whitehouse helped pass in 2022.

Whitehouse and Senator Dan Sullivan’s (R-AK) bipartisan bill reauthorizing NOAA’s Marine Debris Program was included in the Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act, which passed the Senate in May. Whitehouse and Sullivan had previously teamed up on the Save Our Seas and Save Our Seas 2.0 laws, which were the most comprehensive legislation ever passed by Congress to reduce marine debris.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-statement-republicans-going-vacation-ahead-looming-government,Magaziner Statement on Republicans Going on Vacation Ahead of Looming Government Shutdown,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner (RI-02) released the below statement as the federal government nears a shutdown at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday.

“Rhode Islanders are facing a health care crisis, with costs set to increase dramatically due to Republican funding cuts. It is unacceptable that with the government about to shut down and the health care system in crisis, House Republicans left Washington and are on vacation.

I am in Washington, ready to do my job to pass a budget that keeps the government open and protects health care funding, but House Republicans need to return to Washington at once to do their jobs.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-kean-reintroduce-bill-to-improve-artificial-intelligence-literacy-for-k-12,"Amo, Kean Reintroduce Bill to Improve Artificial Intelligence Literacy for K-12",2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) and Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07), reintroduced the Literacy in Future Technologies (LIFT) Artificial Intelligence Act, bipartisan legislation to improve artificial intelligence literacy for K-12.

“The rapid deployment and use of artificial intelligence isn’t just the future, it’s happening now. Our students can’t afford to wait for AI to responsibly be part of their learning experience,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). ""I'm glad to partner with Congressman Tom Kean on the bipartisan LIFT AI Act, so schools and teachers have the tools they need to ensure our students can enhance their learning with artificial intelligence.”

“With artificial intelligence advancing faster than ever, we must ensure the next generation is prepared to use AI effectively and responsibly,” said Congressman Kean (R-NJ). “The LIFT AI Act establishes a strong foundation by bringing AI education into classrooms, giving students the tools they need to succeed in a world driven by innovation. I am grateful to partner once again with Rep. Amo on this bipartisan effort to prepare America’s students to thrive in a future shaped by artificial intelligence.”

“To prepare the next generation of students for an AI-ready world, strengthening AI education efforts for K-12 is essential,” said Information Technology Industry Council (ITI) President and CEO Jason Oxman. “Congressmen Kean and Amo's bipartisan LIFT AI Act will help advance this important mission by bolstering AI literacy efforts, supporting AI literacy and proficiency, promoting responsible AI use, and developing educational curricula which are impactful for preparing students.”

Background

The LIFT AI Act would:

Support a grant program within NSF for research and development of AI literacy curriculum and evaluation methods for K-12, ensuring that educational materials are learner-centered, project based, and adaptable.

Support professional learning opportunities for educators, principals, and school leaders to enhance their AI literacy and proficiency through courses, mentoring, and best practice development.

Promote the creation of hands-on learning tools, the integration of AI literacy into existing curriculums, and the development of evaluation tools to assess AI literacy proficiency.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/delegation-calls-on-trump-s-epa-to-protect-rhode-islanders-health-and-environment-from-climate-change,Delegation Calls on Trump’s EPA to Protect Rhode Islanders Health and Environment from Climate Change,2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“Allowing polluters to pump our atmosphere full of planet-warming greenhouse gases will not only make Rhode Islanders’ lives shorter and sicker; it will cost them billions. Extreme weather disasters have cost Rhode Island up to $500 million over the last five years alone. In the next 15 years, defending Rhode Island’s infrastructure, homes, businesses, and communities from more frequent and intense storms and flooding could cost the state $2.9 billion.”

“Rescinding the Endangerment Finding is the first step towards rolling back clean car and truck standards, oil and gas rules, power plant rules, landfill rules, and other regulations that protect against climate change. This is yet another giveaway to corporate polluters on the backs of Rhode Islanders’ health and wellbeing. Repealing the Endangerment Finding will add fuel to the already raging fire of climate change, triggering more extreme weather, putting our constituents’ lives at risk, and costing billions of dollars in damages.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-and-amo-join-health-care-leaders-call-urgent-action-address-health,Magaziner and Amo Join Health Care Leaders to Call for Urgent Action to Address Health Care Affordability Crisis,2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WARWICK, RI — Today, U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner (RI-02) and Gabe Amo (RI-01) joined Rhode Island health care leaders to call for urgent action to address the rising cost of health insurance in the state. This includes extending Affordable Care Act tax credits that help millions of Americans afford their health insurance, and restoring critical funding for Medicaid and medical research.

This event comes as Affordable Care Act health care tax credits are set to expire at the end of this year unless Congress Acts. The credits currently help 22 million Americans, including more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders who have commercial insurance plans through HealthSource RI, afford their health coverage. The group emphasized that, if they expire, working people will face steep premium increases, and the loss of federal health care funding will ripple through our health care system, impacting hospitals and providers and raising health insurance costs for everyone. In addition, health care costs are rising due to deep cuts to Medicaid passed by Congressional Republicans earlier this year, which will kick 15 million people off their health insurance. All these factors are contributing to a health care affordability crisis.

This call also comes as Congress debates government funding legislation ahead of a September 30th deadline, with health care affordability at the center of the conversation. Magaziner and Amo reiterated during the event that they are ready to support a budget that protects health care and lowers costs for Rhode Islanders. But Republicans in control of Congress and the White House have refused to negotiate, risking a government shutdown.

Leaders at the event highlighted how letting these health care tax credits expire, cuts to Medicaid, and less funding for medical research are raising health care costs for patients and putting strain on Rhode Island’s entire health care system.

“Every Rhode Islander deserves access to high-quality, affordable health care. But right now, too many people are facing a health care affordability crisis,” said Magaziner. “I am ready to vote for a budget that lowers costs and strengthens the state’s health care system, and I am joining health care leaders in calling on President Trump and Republicans in Congress to do the same for the American people.”

“Congressional Republicans and Donald Trump are once again trying to undermine health care for millions of Americans, forcing working families across Rhode Island to decide between health care and meeting their other needs,” said Amo. “I’m proud to stand with Congressman Magaziner and health leaders in our state to fight for a deal that lowers costs.”

“Protecting Rhode Islanders’ ability to seek the mental and physical health care services they need to lead healthy, productive lives is core to HSRI’s mission and to the good of our state,” said Lindsay Lang, director of HealthSource RI. “We know that with the loss of this assistance, thousands of individuals and families will lose their health insurance here in Rhode Island, as well as millions across the country. We worry about our neighbors facing insurmountable medical costs or suffering serious health impacts from avoiding or delaying care as a result. It is vital that we continue to offer the resources needed to keep people connected to quality coverage.”

“For those choosing Neighborhood through HealthSource RI, 89% received premium tax credits. Tens of thousands of Rhode Islanders will be impacted by the loss of enhanced tax credits – some devastatingly so with increases of hundreds of dollars a month in premium costs. The federal premium tax credits support access to health insurance coverage for those who need it most – folks who have no wiggle room in their household budgets to account for increases this large,” said Peter Marino, President and CEO, Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island.

“Allowing the enhanced premium tax credits to expire would accelerate Rhode Island’s health care crisis – with patients, caregivers, and hospitals all paying the price. When people lose coverage, care is delayed and conditions worsen — leaving patients sicker and hospitals facing more complex, expensive cases,” said Michael Sroczynski, President of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island.

“If we don’t do something to prevent the cuts to the tax credits and prevent the cuts to Medicaid, that will be the final blow for Rhode Island’s healthcare system. We will be returning to a time when thousands of Rhode Islanders didn’t have health insurance,” said Lynn Blais, President of United Nurses & Allied Professionals (UNAP). “Thank you, Congressman Magaziner and Congressman Amo for continuing to fight for all Rhode Islanders and for trying to protect our healthcare system.”

You can view or download photos from the event here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/ahead-of-possible-republican-shutdown-amo-rallies-with-patients-and-providers-to-stop-further-health-insurance-hikes,"Ahead of Possible Republican Shutdown, Amo Rallies with Patients and Providers to Stop Further Health Insurance Hikes",2025-09-25,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"CENTRAL FALLS, RI – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) rallied with health care providers, patients, and community leaders at Blackstone Valley Community Health Care to demand Republicans extend cost-saving Affordable Care Act health insurance tax credits that help Americans afford health care.

Congressional Republicans and President Donald Trump cut nearly $1 trillion from Americans’ health care system in their Big, Ugly Law. Now, they are undercutting the ACA, letting the health insurance tax credits that make coverage affordable expire, which would cause insurance costs to increase dramatically for more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders.

“Health care is not a luxury; it’s a human right. If Congressional Republicans and Donald Trump fail to extend health insurance tax credits, millions of Americans will face impossible choices, forcing many to forgo needed care,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Republicans' failure to act will cause more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders’ premiums to skyrocket at the end of this year and make it harder for places like Blackstone Valley Community Health Center to give patients the care they deserve. I’m pushing to put Rhode Islanders first and avert a Republican shutdown.

“Families who rely on HealthSourceRI, our state’s Affordable Care Act health insurance marketplace, are facing dramatic increases to their premiums if the enhanced premium tax credits expire,” said HealthSourceRI Director, Lindsay Lang. “Thank you to Congressman Amo for championing the extension of these life changing tax credits to make sure working Rhode Island families can get the health insurance and care that they need.”

“Many of my patients rely on the extended premium tax credits to help them afford their monthly health insurance payments,” said Anne Barylick, nurse practitioner with Blackstone Valley Community Health. “Without the tax credits many simply won’t be able to afford their premiums and will be forced to go without health insurance and the care it covers. This issue is about real people that we serve every day.”

“Without the health care tax credits, my health insurance is going to be much more difficult to afford, and my family and I will need to cut back to make these payments,” said Dan Correia, a patient at Blackstone Valley Community Health Center. “Thank you to Congressman Amo for fighting to extend these credits to ensure families like mine can afford health insurance.”

“Community health centers serve some of the hardest working and most vulnerable members of our communities, without the ACA tax credits many won’t be able to afford the coverage that keeps families healthy and will place incredible strain on community providers,” said Dr. Cristina Pacheco, Blackstone Valley Community Health Center Chief Executive Officer. “Thank you to Congressman Amo for fighting to make sure that Rhode Islanders can afford the care they need.”

Background

Congressman Amo has long advocated for expanding the Affordable Care Act, investing in Medicare and Medicaid, and ensuring every American has access to affordable health care.

On July 3, 2025, Congressman Amo voted no on the Big, Ugly Law, which cut $1 trillion from Americans’ health care system, after speaking out against the bill on the House Floor at 3:45 AM.

On July 2, 2025, Amo took to the floor to urge adoption of an amendment to protect Medicaid and SNAP. Republicans stood in the way.

On April 9, 2025, Amo slammed the Republican budget resolution on the House floor and shared the story of a Rhode Islander in the First Congressional District who would be hurt by Republican cuts.

On February 24, 2025, Amo submitted two amendments to the House Committee on Rules to protect SNAP and affirm that Medicaid is a critical program for more than 306,000 Rhode Island residents. The Republican-controlled House Committee on Rules refused to consider Congressman Amo’s amendments.

During the House Budget Committee markup on February 13, 2025, Amo offered two amendments to support protecting and extending Medicare’s solvency as well as protecting SNAP, the Community Eligibility Provision, the School Breakfast Program, and the National School Lunch Program. Republicans voted no.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-and-magaziner-join-health-care-leaders-to-call-for-urgent-action-to-address-health-care-affordability-crisis,Amo and Magaziner Join Health Care Leaders to Call for Urgent Action to Address Health Care Affordability Crisis,2025-09-25,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WARWICK, RI — Today, U.S. Representatives Gabe Amo (RI-01) and Seth Magaziner (RI-02) joined Rhode Island health care leaders to call for urgent action to address the rising cost of health insurance in the state. This includes extending Affordable Care Act tax credits that help millions of Americans afford their health insurance, and restoring critical funding for Medicaid and medical research.

This event comes as Affordable Care Act health care tax credits are set to expire at the end of this year unless Congress Acts. The credits currently help 22 million Americans, including more than 40,000 Rhode Islanders who have commercial insurance plans through HealthSource RI, afford their health coverage. The group emphasized that, if they expire, working people will face steep premium increases, and the loss of federal health care funding will ripple through our health care system, impacting hospitals and providers and raising health insurance costs for everyone. In addition, health care costs are rising due to deep cuts to Medicaid passed by Congressional Republicans earlier this year, which will kick 15 million people off their health insurance. All these factors are contributing to a health care affordability crisis.

This call also comes as Congress debates government funding legislation ahead of a September 30th deadline, with health care affordability at the center of the conversation. Amo and Magaziner reiterated during the event that they are ready to support a budget that protects health care and lowers costs for Rhode Islanders. But Republicans in control of Congress and the White House have refused to negotiate, risking a government shutdown.

Leaders at the event highlighted how letting these health care tax credits expire, cuts to Medicaid, and less funding for medical research are raising health care costs for patients and putting strain on Rhode Island’s entire health care system.

“Every Rhode Islander deserves access to high-quality, affordable health care. But right now, too many people are facing a health care affordability crisis,” said Magaziner. “I am ready to vote for a budget that lowers costs and strengthens the state’s health care system, and I am joining health care leaders in calling on President Trump and Republicans in Congress to do the same for the American people.”

“Congressional Republicans and Donald Trump are once again trying to undermine health care for millions of Americans, forcing working families across Rhode Island to decide between health care and meeting their other needs,” said Amo. “I’m proud to stand with Congressman Magaziner and health leaders in our state to fight for a deal that lowers costs.”

“Protecting Rhode Islanders’ ability to seek the mental and physical health care services they need to lead healthy, productive lives is core to HSRI’s mission and to the good of our state,” said Lindsay Lang, director of HealthSource RI. “We know that with the loss of this assistance, thousands of individuals and families will lose their health insurance here in Rhode Island, as well as millions across the country. We worry about our neighbors facing insurmountable medical costs or suffering serious health impacts from avoiding or delaying care as a result. It is vital that we continue to offer the resources needed to keep people connected to quality coverage.”

“For those choosing Neighborhood through HealthSource RI, 89% received premium tax credits. Tens of thousands of Rhode Islanders will be impacted by the loss of enhanced tax credits – some devastatingly so with increases of hundreds of dollars a month in premium costs. The federal premium tax credits support access to health insurance coverage for those who need it most – folks who have no wiggle room in their household budgets to account for increases this large,” said Peter Marino, President and CEO, Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island.

“Allowing the enhanced premium tax credits to expire would accelerate Rhode Island’s health care crisis – with patients, caregivers, and hospitals all paying the price. When people lose coverage, care is delayed and conditions worsen — leaving patients sicker and hospitals facing more complex, expensive cases,” said Michael Sroczynski, President of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island.

“If we don’t do something to prevent the cuts to the tax credits and prevent the cuts to Medicaid, that will be the final blow for Rhode Island’s healthcare system. We will be returning to a time when thousands of Rhode Islanders didn’t have health insurance,” said Lynn Blais, President of United Nurses & Allied Professionals (UNAP). “Thank you, Congressman Magaziner and Congressman Amo for continuing to fight for all Rhode Islanders and for trying to protect our healthcare system.”

You can view or download photos from the event here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-introduces-bicameral-bill-to-curb-gun-violence,Amo Introduces Bicameral Bill to Curb Gun Violence,2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – LAST WEEK, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) reintroduced the bicameral Responsible Retirement of Law Enforcement Firearms Act, with House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D-MD) and Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) .

This legislation would prevent former police service weapons from being sold or transferred to unscrupulous firearms dealers. Law enforcement agencies routinely trade or resell their retired firearms to firearms dealers in exchange for discounts on new equipment. As a result, over 52,000 retired police firearms have been found at crime scenes since 2006.

“I’m proud to reintroduce the Responsible Retirement of Law Enforcement Firearms Act to stop the flow of former law enforcement weapons to crime scenes,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Our nation’s growing gun violence epidemic requires urgent, common-sense action. This legislation will help protect our communities by keeping guns out of the wrong hands.”

“Law enforcement firearms should never end up in the hands of criminals,” said Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL). “Our bill would help ensure that firearms no longer being used by our law enforcement agencies aren’t sold to irresponsible dealers and ultimately used against our communities. This is a no-brainer measure to help save lives and keep our streets safe.”

“The Responsible Retirement of Law Enforcement Firearms Act closes a dangerous loophole that has been used to funnel tens of thousands of retired firearms into the criminal underworld,” said Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D-MD). “This reform will keep guns out of the wrong hands—ensuring that weapons once used by law enforcement to protect and serve our communities are not resold and used to commit crimes. At a time of rampant gun violence, Congress has a duty to bring down the dangerous flow of guns fueling our nation’s epidemic of gun violence.”

The Responsible Retirement of Law Enforcement Firearms Act has been endorsed by Rhode Island Coalition Against Gun Violence; Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association; International Brotherhood of Police Officers, Rhode Island Office; Nonviolence Institute; Major Cities Chiefs Association; Brady: United Against Gun Violence; Giffords; Everytown for Gun Safety; Guns Down America; and Newtown Action Alliance.

“It’s illogical that retired law enforcement firearms would be sold to gun dealers who engage in reckless and irresponsible business practices that fuel gun violence in America,” said Mark Collins, Director of Federal Policy, Brady. “If we want to end the gun violence epidemic, we must ensure the safe, responsible exchange of all firearms, including retired police weapons. The Responsible Retirement of Law Enforcement Firearms (RRLEF) Act will make sure that only responsible dealers have the privilege of selling firearms to, and purchasing firearms from, state and local law enforcement agencies that receive federal funds. Brady thanks Congressman Amo and Senator Duckworth for introducing the RRLEF Act to help ensure that retired police firearms do not contribute to violent crime.”

“Requiring police departments to ensure the gun dealers buying retired service weapons aren’t known suppliers of crime guns is the very definition of common sense,” said John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety. “We’re grateful for Congressman Amo’s leadership, and urge every member of Congress to prevent former police weapons from falling into the hands of criminals.”

“This is the kind of common-sense legislation our communities need. When retired police weapons end up in the hands of criminals, lives are at risk,” said GIFFORDS Executive Director Emma Brown. “This bill responsibly closes a dangerous loophole by preventing the sale or transfer of firearms from former law enforcement personnel to dishonest gun dealers. We stand with local leaders, victims, and advocates in calling for action — because public safety cannot wait.”

“Rhode Island’s law enforcement leaders remain committed to reducing gun violence and the Responsible Retirement of Law Enforcement Firearms Act will help achieve that goal by keeping guns out of the wrong hands,” said Sid Wordell, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association. “We want to thank Congressman Amo for supporting our efforts and leading on this issue.”

""The Rhode Island Coalition Against Gun Violence stands with Congressman Amo in support of the Responsible Retirement of Law Enforcement Firearms Act,” said Melissa Carden, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Coalition Against Gun Violence. “Blocking the flow of police guns to crime scenes is one common sense way to keep our neighborhoods safer. We are grateful for Congressman Amo's steadfast commitment to gun safety.""

The bill can be found here.

Background

The Responsible Retirement of Law Enforcement Firearms Act would block the flow of retired police firearms to crime scenes by preventing state and local law enforcement from transferring firearms to, and purchasing firearms from, federally licensed firearms dealers (FFLs) with a history of selling guns that disproportionately end up being used to commit crimes. Specifically, the legislation would:

Require Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant applicants to certify that they will not transfer or purchase firearms from a covered FFL. Violation of this certification can result in penalties ranging from additional award conditions to award termination.

Direct ATF to publicly report a list of covered FFLs each year and remove restrictions on public reporting.

Add a reporting requirement to firearm traces that directs ATF to notify state and local law enforcement if a firearm traces back to their department.

This legislation has been cosponsored by Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Sean Casten (D-IL), Madeleine Dean (D-PA), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Maxwell Frost (D-FL), Daniel Goldman (D-NY), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Robin Kelly (D-IL), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Seth Moulton (D-MA), Kevin Mullin (D-CA), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Adam Smith (D-WA), and Eric Swalwell (D-CA).

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/king-and-magaziner-introduce-bill-protect-seniors-falls-during-fall-prevention,King and Magaziner Introduce Bill to Protect Seniors from Falls During Fall Prevention Awareness Week,2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) and U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (D-RI-02) announced the introduction of their bicameral Stand Strong for Medicare Act, legislation that improves the safety of older Americans by ensuring that fall-prevention equipment is reimbursable under Medicare Part B.

Each year, 14 million older Americans experience falls, resulting in 3 million emergency room visits and 39,000 tragic deaths. Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults aged 65 and older, with non-fatal falls costing our health care system $80 billion annually. This bill provides a preventive approach to protect seniors from these risks, allowing them to age safely and reduce the need for emergency and long-term care interventions. Seniors can reduce their risk of falling through basic home modifications, daily exercises, and other simple precautions.

“Falls can be serious, and even deadly, for older Americans, and Congress must consider this issue as seriously as we would for any other medical condition,” said Representative

Seth Magaziner. “Passing this legislation would be a step toward reducing preventable injuries among seniors, reducing costs to the healthcare system, and providing seniors with the resources they need to live safely and independently.”

“We all know the saying ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,’ and the cheapest medical visit is the one that never has to happen,” said Senator Angus King, co-founder of the Congressional Task Force on Falls Prevention. “ Luckily, when it comes to falls prevention, the solution can start at home with the installation of grab bars, handrails, bath mats and other quick modifications. The bicameral Stand Strong for Medicare Act would help make falls prevention equipment more affordable through Medicare reimbursements and, in turn, ease financial burdens on our health care systems and taxpayers. It’s a win-win. This commonsense legislation will provide older Americans with the freedom to stand strong and stay safe.”

This bill requires that Medicare Part B cover the cost of fall prevention equipment including, but not limited to: grab bars, non-slip mats, shower chairs, bed rails, and other necessary devices, as prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. It also requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to create an annual list of qualifying equipment, ensuring that Medicare continues to support best practices in fall prevention and accommodates advancements in safety equipment.

“We commend Rep. Magaziner and Sen. King for working to expand Medicare coverage of falls prevention equipment. With 1 in 4 older Americans falling every year, we must invest in proven interventions that reduce people's risks. Covering items such as grab bars and shower chairs under Medicare Part B will make these devices more affordable and accessible. It also will directly advance goals in the 2025 National Falls Prevention Action Plan, which outlines steps to reduce the number of falls and fall injuries among older Americans over the next 10 years,” said Ramsey Alwin, President and CEO, National Council on Aging.

""At the Ocean State Center for Independent Living, we see every day how access to simple fall-prevention equipment like grab bars and shower chairs can make the difference between living safely at home or facing unnecessary hospitalizations. Expanding Medicare coverage for these tools is an important step in supporting independence, dignity, and safety for older adults and people with disabilities,” said Mireille Sayaf, Executive Director, Ocean State for Independent Living.

""SACRI has remained a leader in its efforts to advance policy, laws, education and programs to improve the health of older adults including fall prevention efforts. Falls, the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injury for older adults, cause over 80% of hip fractures and the CDC reports that deaths due to falls have been increasing. Falls can not only seriously impact the quality of life of older adults but are a significant cost to our healthcare system. Medicare coverage of fall prevention equipment can prevent injury and deaths and lessen health system costs. We fully support this bill,"" said Carol Anne Costa, Executive Director, Senior Agenda Coalition Rhode Island.

The Stand Strong for Medicare Act is endorsed by the National Council on Aging, Ocean State for Independent Living, LeadingAge RI, and Senior Agenda Coalition Rhode Island.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/ri-codel-applauds-release-americorps-and-americorps-seniors-funding,RI CODEL Applauds Release of AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors Funding,2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, along with U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner (RI-02) and Gabe Amo (RI-01), applauded the release of Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 grant funding for AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors programs, including the Seniors Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions programs in Rhode Island. The restoration of funding follows the Rhode Island delegation’s demand to the Trump Administration to restore funding being withheld from organizations in Rhode Island.

The members released the following statement:

“We are pleased that AmeriCorps funding for seniors has been restored to Rhode Island service providers following our advocacy. These resources are vital for organizations supporting older Rhode Islanders.

This delay, like so many of President Trump’s attempts to roll back congressionally approved funding, should never have happened, and we will keep fighting to ensure Rhode Island organizations receive the funding they deserve.”

Federal Hill House Association, West Warwick Senior Center, the Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging (OHA) and East Bay Action were awarded $1,419,257 through the AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors program.

The funding supports programs that allow older adults to provide one-on-one mentoring, tutoring, and emotional support to children, including those with special needs, as well as recruit volunteers to assist other seniors who need daily support through companionship, help with errands, transportation, and more. The unnecessary delay in funding ceased confusion, uncertainty, and hardship for service providers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-magaziner-lead-opposition-to-erasing-ri-senator-s-legacy-by-renaming-workforce-pell-grant-after-trump,"Amo, Magaziner Lead Opposition to Erasing RI Senator’s Legacy by Renaming Workforce Pell Grant after Trump",2025-09-23,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“Whenever Senator Pell was asked about his greatest achievement, he would always respond without hesitation: “Pell Grants.”

“In stark contrast to Senator Pell’s steadfast commitment to education, President Donald Trump’s record includes efforts to bypass Congress to unlawfully dismantle the Department of Education, freeze federal education and research funding at institutions, pressure schools to roll back key initiatives, including those focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

“ Senator Pell was a visionary public servant who believed deeply in the power of education to transform lives. He championed the creation of the Pell Grant over 50 years ago because he saw the barriers that too many Americans faced in accessing higher education, and he believed the federal government had a responsibility to help break down those barriers. His legacy lives on in the millions of students, many of them the first in their families to attend college, whose lives have been shaped by the opportunity that Pell Grants provide.”

“Preserving Senator Pell’s name on the program is not just about honoring the past, it is about protecting a future where every student, regardless of background, has the chance to dream big and achieve more. To attempt to erase Senator Pell’s name from a program that has uplifted generations and replace it with a President whose record on education is defined by cuts and dismantlement is a profound insult to that legacy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/amo-magaziner-lead-opposition-erasing-ri-senators-legacy-renaming-workforce,"Amo, Magaziner Lead Opposition to Erasing RI Senator’s Legacy by Renaming Workforce Pell Grant after Trump",2025-09-23,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – TODAY, Congressmen Gabe Amo (RI-01) and Seth Magaziner (RI-02) called on leaders of the House Appropriations Committee to preserve the dignity and purpose of the Workforce Pell Grant and oppose renaming the grants after President Donald Trump.

The Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act includes a provision to change the Workforce Pell Grant’s name to so-called “Trump Grants.” This would erase the legacy of Rhode Island Senator Clairborne Pell, a long-time champion of higher education who played a central role in creating the program.

The Congressmen write:

“Whenever Senator Pell was asked about his greatest achievement, he would always respond without hesitation: “Pell Grants.”

“In stark contrast to Senator Pell’s steadfast commitment to education, President Donald Trump’s record includes efforts to bypass Congress to unlawfully dismantle the Department of Education, freeze federal education and research funding at institutions, pressure schools to roll back key initiatives, including those focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

“ Senator Pell was a visionary public servant who believed deeply in the power of education to transform lives. He championed the creation of the Pell Grant over 50 years ago because he saw the barriers that too many Americans faced in accessing higher education, and he believed the federal government had a responsibility to help break down those barriers. His legacy lives on in the millions of students, many of them the first in their families to attend college, whose lives have been shaped by the opportunity that Pell Grants provide.”

“Preserving Senator Pell’s name on the program is not just about honoring the past, it is about protecting a future where every student, regardless of background, has the chance to dream big and achieve more. To attempt to erase Senator Pell’s name from a program that has uplifted generations and replace it with a President whose record on education is defined by cuts and dismantlement is a profound insult to that legacy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/ri-codel-statement-preliminary-injunction-revolution-wind-case,RI CODEL Statement on Preliminary Injunction in Revolution Wind Case,2025-09-22,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, along with U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner (RI-02) and Gabe Amo (RI-01) issued the following statement in response to a preliminary injunction issued by the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia that will allow work to resume on the Revolution Wind Project:

“This preliminary injunction that allows workers to get back to the job is the right outcome and a welcome positive development. Revolution Wind is 80 percent complete, employs one thousand union jobs, and is set to deliver low-cost energy to homes in Rhode Island.

The Interior Department has provided no clear argument for its stop work order on the project. Our delegation stands united in urging the Administration to allow this project to proceed without further delay.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-statement-on-hres-719,Amo Statement on H.Res 719,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) issued the following statement on H. Res 719:

“The assassination of Charlie Kirk was a tragedy that took a father from his children, husband from his wife, son from his parents, and makes us all less safe. His killing is unequivocally unacceptable.

In the heightened intensity of our political climate, a resolution that divides and reinforces pain does not alleviate political discord or support the principled disagreement essential to American democracy. While the First Amendment entitled Mr. Kirk to spout demeaning and dehumanizing ideas I vehemently disagree with, that same amendment allows me to use my voice to promote kindness and unity for those he disparaged.

As a Black man, I could not in good conscience vote for a resolution that aimed to rewrite history and erase the hateful things Mr. Kirk espoused. We are entitled to our own opinions, but we are not entitled to our own facts. While he has many followers who extol his words that may have been positive, the negative parts of his legacy do not warrant high honor or praise. As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, ‘hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.’

Political violence has no place in our democracy, but meaningful, non-violent dialogue is essential. That is why I am co-sponsoring, H.Res 746, a resolution introduced by my colleague Rep. Marc Veasey that condemns Mr. Kirk’s killing and the extreme rise in political violence we have recently witnessed.

I will continue to champion free speech and dialogue, and work to end the scourge of gun violence. While Donald Trump and Republicans are abusing the power of government to silence dissent, I will work to ensure every American, even those with different views than my own, can express their beliefs and opinions without fear of violence or reprisal.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-statement-anniversary-ethnic-cleansing-armenian-population-nagorno,Magaziner Statement on Anniversary of Ethnic Cleansing of Armenian Population in Nagorno-Karabakh,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) released the following statement recognizing the second anniversary of the 2023 ethnic cleansing of Nagorno-Karabakh by Azerbaijan.

“Today we recognize the anniversary of the ethnic cleansing and territorial assault on Nagorno-Karabakh by Azerbaijan that forced Armenians out of their homes.

In Rhode Island, Armenian-Americans remind us daily of the resilience of the Armenian people. I stand with them in calling for accountability for Azerbaijan’s abuses against Armenians in Artsakh, and call for the release of all remaining Armenian prisoners.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-colleagues-advocates-launch-congressional-community-safety-caucus,"Amo, Colleagues, Advocates Launch Congressional Community Safety Caucus",2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – YESTERDAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI), Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12), Congresswoman Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Congressman Henry “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Congressman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), and Congresswoman LaMonica McIver (NJ-10) launched the first-ever Congressional Community Safety Caucus to uplift holistic investments into people and communities that break cycles of harm. The Members of Congress will serve as co-chairs of the new caucus.

""Every American deserves to live in a safe community free of violence and full of opportunity,"" said Congressman Amo (D-RI). ""The Community Safety Caucus's push for commonsense policies that emphasize community violence intervention, getting guns off the street, enhancing public infrastructure, and investing in mental health care will ensure communities have the tools they need to succeed. Americans need real policy solutions, not political theater. I’m proud to work with my colleagues to provide a vision of what safe, thriving communities look like.”

""We launched the first-ever Congressional Community Safety Caucus to fight for safe schools, affordable housing, quality health care, and a justice system that actually delivers justice,” said Congresswoman Lee (D-PA). “Real community safety means making holistic invests in people to root out the systemic challenges that perpetuate cycles of harm. Our communities deserve more than poverty and trauma as the status quo. This caucus is about uplifting solutions rooted in care, prevention, and equity, and led by the people most impacted. I’m grateful to my colleagues and the coalition of advocates who made this caucus possible.""

""Our country has too many examples of violence perpetrated against the many to fulfill the promise of safety and law and order for the few. The Trump Administration's weaponizing of the idea of safety to erode our constitutional boundaries and abuse military power in our cities makes us all less safe,"" said Congresswoman Ramirez (D-IL). ""That's why I am proud to join my colleague Congresswoman Lee as a co-chair of the new Community Safety Caucus. Together, we will continue to fight for the policies and funding necessary to protect and expand proven community safety initiatives.""

""For too long, safety in America has been defined only by punishment and policing,” said Congressman Johnson (D-GA). “That narrow view has left too many of our communities struggling with poverty, instability, and violence. The Community Safety Caucus is about changing that by pushing for policies that invest in prevention, lift up opportunity, and give people the tools to build healthy, thriving neighborhoods. I'm honored to stand with my colleagues in this effort to reimagine what true safety looks like.""

“I am proud to be a co-chair of the Community Safety Caucus because I’ve seen firsthand what’s possible when we bring stakeholders to the table and create real, sustained partnerships. This caucus’s work is about lifting up those efforts and pushing for the federal resources and policy changes that can scale them nationally,” said Congresswoman McIver (D-NJ). “Working to keep our communities safe is at the heart of why I serve, and I know that together, we can make community safety a reality—for every family, on every block, in every city across this country.”

“Everyone deserves to live in a community that both is and feels safe, but we can’t incarcerate our way out of poverty, substance abuse, and mental health crises. If we want to truly keep people safe, we have to address the root causes of these issues and abandon the idea of a one-size-fits-all approach,” said Congressman McGarvey (D-KY). “I’m proud to join my colleagues in leading this effort to push for the holistic public safety solutions our communities need.”

To launch the caucus, the members hosted a panel on Capitol Hill and were joined by frontline workers and organizers. The discussion was moderated by Thea Sebastian of The Futures Institute and panelists included Benny Ivey of Strong Arms of Mississippi, Freedom Jones of LifeBridge Health's Center for Hope, and Kyleesha Wingfield-Hill of the Newark Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery. The panel discussed their work to interrupt violence and deescalate crises and ways policies and budgets can make communities safer every day.

“I do this work because I know what it’s like to be lost, and I know what it takes to find a way out. Sharing my story gives young people proof that change is possible, and Credible Messenger mentoring gives them the tools to write a different future than the one I almost chose for myself. Credible Messenger work is important for our country because it breaks cycles of violence and incarceration by replacing them with hope, healing, and opportunity. When people with lived experience guide the next generation, we strengthen families, reduce crime, and build safer, healthier communities for everyone,” said Benny Ivey, Strong Arms of Mississippi.

""I come from the kind of community that's too often ignored. I was raised by my grandmother while my father was in prison and my mother fought through addiction. We made it through on government assistance, but what really changed my life was love, resilience, and someone giving me a chance. Today, I lead violence prevention in New Jersey's largest city — and we've brought crime down by 60%. That didn't happen by locking more people up. It happened because we stopped criminalizing pain and started investing in people. Real safety doesn't come from punishment — it comes from real resources, real support, and real hope,"" said Kyleesha Wingfield-Hill, Director Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery.

“CVI work shows us that those once caught in cycles of harm can become the strongest builders of peace. This model does not blame communities—it uplifts them, proving that transformation is possible. Community violence intervention is an industry with a proven record of saving lives and serves as a roadmap for safety rooted in healing and prevention. It is not an alternative system—it is the work of communities themselves, coming together to stop harm and create lasting peace,” said Freedom Jones, LifeBridge Health’s Center for Hope and Founder & CEO, Street Pause Inc.

Footage from the panel can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/rhode-island-congressional-delegation-welcomes-over-56-million-for-ocean-state-research,Rhode Island Congressional Delegation Welcomes Over $56 Million for Ocean State Research,2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – Recognizing the talent, innovation, and excellence of Ocean State-based researchers across a variety of fields, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Gabe Amo and Seth Magaziner today welcomed over $56+ million in recently awarded federal grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for interdisciplinary research.

A total of $56,065,030.00 in federal funding is being awarded to several Rhode Island institutions of higher education to support cutting-edge research. The federal funding will support work at the University of Rhode Island (URI), Brown University, Rhode Island School of Design, and Johnson & Wales in areas ranging from artificial intelligence (AI) to STEM workforce pipeline development to mathematics and more.

“This federal funding means the continuation of cutting-edge research here in Rhode Island and leverages federal investments we have made in strengthening the state's research infrastructure. These highly competitive NSF awards are a testament to the students, professors, and institutions that contribute to these projects and help solve complex challenges. Not only do they make critical new discoveries and shape our understanding of science, technology, engineering, and math, they expand a world of opportunity and economic growth here in Rhode Island and beyond,"" said Senator Reed, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee who advocates each year for increased NSF research funding.

“Rhode Island’s institutions of higher education are on the leading edge of STEM research and innovation,” said Senator Whitehouse. “This federal funding will help the University of Rhode Island, Johnson & Wales University, and Brown University prepare the next generation of talent for well-paying jobs and continue to drive the Ocean State’s competitiveness.”

“Rhode Island’s colleges and universities are driving scientific innovation and preparing the next generation of scientists and engineers,” said Congressman Magaziner. “We must protect federal funding for scientific research here in Rhode Island and nationally, and not allow the Trump administration to block research funding for political purposes.”

“Cutting-edge research is the backbone of Rhode Island’s competitiveness,” said Congressman Amo. “While Trump tries to gut our science enterprise, I’m proud to deliver over $51 million in federal research funding to empower Rhode Islanders to develop innovations that will power our 21st century economy. I can’t wait to see what Rhode Island researchers discover next.”

Background

Johnson & Wales University received $999,960 for a project titled “Increasing Persistence in STEM Career Preparedness Through Mentoring and Cohort Activities.”

The University of Rhode Island received $4,990,252 to fund a project titled, “ExpandQISE: Track 2: URI-PQI Collaboration - Application Of Quantum Fundamentals To Advance Research and Workforce Development.”

The Rhode Island School of Design received $205,752 for a project titled “Collaborative Research: HCC: Medium: Accelerating Yarn Fabrication Research using Rapid Prototyping Tools.”

The Rhode Island School of Design also received $400,000 for research titled “Collaborative Research: EPIIC: Supporting Partnerships for Advancement, Research, and Knowledge (SPARK).”

Brown University received $20,000,000 to fund a new AI Research Institute on Interaction for AI Assistants.

Brown University received $16,500,000 for the Institute for Computational and Experimental Research in Mathematics.

Brown University received an additional $12,969,066 for additional science research projects.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/vice-ranking-member-amo-on-bad-republican-state-department-plan-to-cede-american-global-leadership-entrench-trump-corruption,"Vice Ranking Member Amo on Bad Republican State Department Plan to Cede American Global Leadership, Entrench Trump Corruption",2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – TODAY, House Foreign Affairs Committee Vice Ranking Member Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) issued the following statement on the House Foreign Affairs Committee passage of the State Department Reauthorization bills:

“This markup was the latest step in President Trump, Secretary Rubio, and Congressional Republicans' devious plan to cede American leadership on the world stage. By codifying Trump's illegal cuts to the Department of State, Republicans' package of bills harms Americans and empowers our adversaries. Their proposals cut food aid for starving children, threatening Rhode Island jobs; make it harder for American workers and businesses to enter emerging markets; and abandon our tradition of protecting labor and human rights. I voted no on the harmful proposals and will fight to restore American global leadership.”

Background

Vice Ranking Member Amo introduced seven amendments as part of the State Reauthorization legislative package to protect against Trump’s reckless attacks on American diplomacy.

Three amendments passed with bipartisan support. Republicans voted down four.

Amo’s first amendment would have supported the prevention and treatment of global malnutrition. It would support ready-to-use-therapeutic food made in Rhode Island from Georgia peanuts, Wisconsin milk, Iowa soybeans, and other commodities from 15 states. Republicans voted to let kids starve.

Amo’s second amendment would have stopped DOGE, President Trump and Secretary Rubio from wasting already purchased foreign aid, and taxpayer dollars. The amendment would have established guidance on handling unused supplies to ensure aid is not diverted, destroyed, or allowed to expire. Republicans voted to set taxpayer dollars on fire.

Amo’s third amendment would have opposed President Trump’s discriminatory refugee program exclusively for White South Africans after he locked out refugees facing credible threats of prosecution. Republicans voted no.

Amo’s fourth amendment would have supported the Department of State’s essential Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor. Championing their vital, longstanding work promoting democratic values, human rights, and fair labor practices around the world. Republicans voted against workers.

Amo’s fifth amendment, the bipartisan AUKUS Improvement Act, would exempt defense entities already vetted by the State Department as Australian United Kingdom United States Security Pact Authorized Users from additional scrutiny. It passed as part of the reauthorization legislation.

Amo’s sixth amendment would authorize a report to better understand the State Department’s capacity at Mission Australia, a key U.S. ally in the Indo-Pacific. It was also included in the legislation passed out of committee.

Amo’s seventh amendment, supporting a lasting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, was also passed as part of the reauthorization legislation.

Amo also introduced an amendment on behalf of Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-NV) that would affirm the United States’ partnership with the Republic of Cyprus to help increase stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. This amendment passed as part of the reauthorization legislation.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/vice-ranking-member-amo-passes-three-amendments-to-support-rhode-island-jobs-strengthen-us-alliances,"Vice Ranking Member Amo Passes Three Amendments to Support Rhode Island Jobs, Strengthen U.S. Alliances",2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – TODAY, House Foreign Affairs Vice Ranking Member Gabe Amo (D-RI) secured the passage of three amendments as part of the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s State Department Reauthorization process to strengthen the Australia United Kingdom United States (AUKUS) Security Pact, support the U.S. Diplomatic Mission to Australia, and encourage a lasting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

“American leadership on the world stage requires strong alliances and sustained investment,” said Vice Ranking Member Amo. “Streamlining collaboration with our allies, supporting American diplomats working abroad, and bolstering peaceful resolutions to longstanding conflicts should be the focus of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the Department of State. I’m glad to have worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to secure the passage of three bipartisan amendments in this year’s State Department reauthorization bills to achieve these goals.”

Vice Ranking Member Amo introduced the bipartisan Australian United Kingdom United States Security Pact (AUKUS) Improvement Act, with House Foreign Affairs Chair Emeritus Michael McCaul (R-TX) in August 2025. It was included as an amendment in the reauthorization package and would exempt defense entities already vetted by the State Department as AUKUS Authorized Users from additional scrutiny. It passed out of committee.

Amo’s amendment that would authorize a report to better understand the State Department’s capacity at Mission Australia, a key U.S. ally in the Indo-Pacific, was also included in the legislation passed out of committee.

Finally, Amo’s amendment that would support a lasting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, was also passed as part of the reauthorization legislation.

Amo also introduced an amendment on behalf of Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-NV) that would affirm the United States’ partnership with the Republic of Cyprus to help increase stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. This amendment passed as part of the reauthorization legislation.

Background

On August 21, 2025, Vice Ranking Member Amo and House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Emeritus Michael McCaul (R-TX) introduced the AUKUS Improvement Act as standalone legislation. The legislation is also cosponsored by Representatives Joe Courtney (D-CT), Ryan Zinke (R-MT), Sarah McBride (D-DE), Ryan Zinke (R-MT), Robert Aderholt (R-AL), Michael Lawler (R-NY), André Carson (D-IN), Blake Moore (R-UT), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Ed Case (D-HI), and Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN).

The AUKUS trilateral security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States was founded in 2021 to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Currently, AUKUS Authorized Users must undergo additional, often slow, Third Party Transfer approvals, causing unnecessary delays to defense production. By removing this redundant step, the AUKUS Improvement Act will expedite collaboration and strengthen the efficiency of AUKUS.

Rhode Island’s First Congressional District is home to numerous manufacturers producing defense materials for the AUKUS partnership, including submarines and autonomous naval vessels.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/congressional-delegation-calls-for-release-of-information-on-status-of-va-workforce-in-rhode-island,Congressional Delegation Calls for Release of Information on Status of VA Workforce in Rhode Island,2025-09-16,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“We are alarmed that your actions as Secretary to drastically reduce the VA workforce have negative repercussions for employee morale and future recruitment. Your recent decision to terminate collective bargaining agreements for VA employees will almost certainly make the problem worse, as approximately 80% of VA employees belonged to a union. VA employees are essential to serving our Veterans. The alarming rate at which employees are leaving VA jeopardizes Veterans’ ability to timely access services and benefits they have earned and will undermine the VA’s ability to meet its mission for many years.”

“According to the July issue of VA’s Workforce Dashboard, the net losses of Veteran-facing VA employees for this fiscal year are estimated at over 8,700. These losses include over 2,129 registered nurses, 1,283 medical support assistants, 751 physicians, and 1,294 Veteran claim examiners. This is a significant loss compared to the Biden administration, which added over 8,700 employees during the same period in Fiscal Year 2024.”

“In order to assess the impact on our constituents, we request a more detailed understanding of the current VA workforce in Rhode Island. Specifically, we request data on all employee departures from January 1, 2025, through September 16, 2025, within the State of Rhode Island, including at the Eagle Square VA Clinic, Eagle Street VA Clinic, Providence VA Medical Center, Middletown VA Clinic, Providence VA Regional Benefit Office, and Providence Vet Center.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-introduces-legislation-reunite-americans-lost-retirement-benefits,Magaziner Introduces Legislation to Reunite Americans with Lost Retirement Benefits,2025-09-16,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner (RI-02) and Ron Estes (KS-04), both former state treasurers, introduced the bipartisan Unclaimed Retirement Rescue Plan, bipartisan legislation to reunite Americans with lost retirement benefits they rightfully earned.

A 2019 Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) Advisory Council report estimated that over a billion dollars of retirement savings are stranded in old, inactive retirement accounts. Many people have difficulty accessing their funds because they changed jobs or their former employer went out of business.

While every state and the District of Columbia already run unclaimed property programs to return assets like funds in old bank accounts or the contents of safe deposit boxes to individuals, current law prevents states from helping people recover lost retirement accounts.

The Magaziner-Estes bill would fix this by allowing states to reunite people with their unclaimed retirement benefits through states' existing unclaimed property programs. This commonsense reform will help ensure Americans have access to all of their hard-earned retirement savings.

“Americans work hard and deserve every penny of the retirement benefits they’ve earned. As the former state treasurer of Rhode Island, I know firsthand that state unclaimed property systems are effective tools to help reconnect people with their benefits,” said Magaziner. “The Unclaimed Retirement Rescue Plan will build on these systems to ensure more workers receive what they earned and can retire with dignity.”

“Hardworking Americans deserve the retirement savings they've earned, but these savings are sometimes lost due to job changes. As a former Kansas State Treasurer, I know how unclaimed property programs protect and return lost assets in an efficient manner. Working with Congressman Magaziner at the federal level to introduce this bipartisan bill will ensure forgotten retirement funds make their way back to their rightful owners, strengthening retirement security for millions,” said Estes.

“As former State Treasurers, Representatives Magaziner and Estes know the value of state unclaimed property programs in returning missing retirement funds. At no cost to the federal government, states can use proven systems to reunite over $1 billion and stem the problem of individuals becoming disconnected from their retirement savings - a problem that grows by $100 million each year,” said NAST President and North Dakota State Treasurer Thomas Beadle. “We urge members of Congress to follow their lead and co-sponsor this legislation.”

The Unclaimed Retirement Rescue Plan would:

Allow retirement plan administrators to voluntarily transfer unclaimed retirement distributions between $50 and $5,000 to state unclaimed property programs through the States' Unclaimed Retirement Clearing House (SURCH) initiative, which is already used by states and private-sector benefit plan administrators.

Direct states to regularly update the Department of Labor’s Retirement Savings Lost and Found (RSLF) database so individuals can more easily track and recover their money.

Require the Secretary of Labor to report to Congress on the effectiveness of these regulations.

The legislation is endorsed by the National Association of State Treasurers (NAST) and National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-celebrates-rhode-island-s-veterans-at-resource-fair-and-bbq,Amo Celebrates Rhode Island’s Veterans at Resource Fair and BBQ,2025-09-14,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"PAWTUCKET, RI – YESTERDAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) hosted his second annual Veterans Barbecue and Resource Fair at Slater Park in Pawtucket. The event featured resource tables with Veterans’ advocacy and support groups from across Rhode Island.

“It was an honor to gather with so many of Rhode Island’s Veterans and their families, to thank them for their service, and to help connect them with the resources they deserve,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Our Veterans have sacrificed much to defend our nation, and it’s our duty to support them every day.”

Background

Since his swearing in, Congressman Amo has been committed to supporting Rhode Island’s Veterans.

He voted against Trump’s Big, Ugly Law, which gutted SNAP, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act. An estimated 3,000 Rhode Island Veterans received SNAP between 2021 and 2023. As of 2023, 4,200 Rhode Island Veterans were enrolled in Medicaid.

Amo also voted no on the extreme Republican Continuing Resolution earlier this year that failed to fund the PACT Act and their commitment to provide health care to Veterans impacted by toxic exposure.

Amo proudly introduced a bipartisan resolution to support Veteran mental health by establishing “Vets Get Outside Day.”

On February 13, 2025, Congressman Amo introduced a bipartisan bill with Senator Sheldon Whitehouse to recognize America’s first integrated military unit — the First Rhode Island Regiment — by posthumously awarding its members with the Congressional Gold Medal.

Amo hosted his first Barbecue to honor the Veterans of Rhode Island’s First Congressional District on August 28, 2024.

On February 27, 2024, Amo announced over $586,000 in federal funds to help homeless Veterans and their families find permanent housing.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/four-amo-amendments-protecting-national-security-and-ri-jobs-pass-house,Four Amo Amendments Protecting National Security and RI Jobs Pass House,2025-09-11,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – YESTERDAY, House Foreign Affairs Vice Ranking Member Gabe Amo (D-RI) secured the House passage of four amendments as part of the House of Representatives’ Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to strengthen Rhode Island’s defense economy and support America's closest allies.

“Rhode Island workers are leading the way in manufacturing America’s 21st century national security by developing and building cutting-edge technology for America and our allies,” said Vice Ranking Member Amo. “The amendments I fought to include in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act support good, family-sustaining jobs in Rhode Island, strengthen our national security, and express Congress’s steadfast support for the Australia, United Kingdom, United States (AUKUS) security pact, which underpins America’s strategy to counter our adversaries in the Indo-Pacific. I will keep working to ensure these pro-Rhode Island amendments pass the Senate and are included in the final bill. ”

Background

The first of Amo’s amendments requires a report to Congress on the impact and potential of Pillar 1 of the AUKUS Partnership.

Amo’s second amendment supports domestic production of AUKUS defense articles, boosting local economies, employing Americans, and improving national security. It also calls for the Department of Defense (DOD) to promote and prioritize domestic manufacturing, supply chains, and research for AUKUS defense materiel.

The third Amo amendment authorizes APEX Accelerators, including in Providence, Rhode Island, to assist small businesses in acquiring procurement contracts for defense articles for AUKUS. This DOD program is focused on building strong, sustainable, and resilient supply chains.

Amo’s fourth amendment requires a report to Congress on the Low-Cost Undersea Effectors Commercial Solutions Opening to help Rhode Island companies expand America’s military undersea drone capabilities.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-statement-his-vote-against-house-ndaa-bill-fails-address-trump,Magaziner Statement on His Vote Against House NDAA Bill that Fails to Address Trump Misuse of Military,2025-09-11,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) released the below statement following his vote against the House version of the National Defense Authorization Act, which sets annual defense policy for the country and authorizes Department of Defense (DoD) funding.

“This bill fails to address President Trump’s misuse of the military and rein in his abuses of power, including illegally deploying military into American cities to target US citizens without the consent of state and local leaders. There are no guardrails in this bill to stop these abuses of power or to ensure the military is used responsibly.

I hope both parties can come together to pass a final bill before the end of the year that not only supports our troops but also puts strong safeguards in place to prevent further misuse of military force by the President.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-mcdowell-push-bipartisan-legislation-to-reduce-overdose-deaths,"Amo, McDowell Push Bipartisan Legislation to Reduce Overdose Deaths",2025-09-10,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) and Congressman Addison McDowell (R-NC) introduced the Having Overdose Protection Equipment (HOPE) Act, legislation that would ensure opioid overdose reversal medications, such as naloxone, are readily available in public places like parks, schools, and public transportation. This bill would explicitly allow states to use the federal State Opioid Response (SOR) grant program at Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to purchase public access opioid overdose reversal kits.

“Empty spots at the dinner table, parents missing milestones, names not read at graduation. That’s the cost of the opioid crisis paid by far, far too many American families and communities,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Making naloxone more accessible will save countless lives and I’m proud to introduce the HOPE Act with Congressman McDowell to improve access to this critical medication.”

“Naloxone is one of our strongest tools in saving lives in our fight against fentanyl, with more than 90 percent of people surviving after it’s administered,” said Congressman Addison McDowell (R-NC). “Expanding access to naloxone will save lives in North Carolina and across the country. Even as we work to stop the flow of deadly drugs over our borders, we must also make sure families and communities have access to this life-saving treatment

""NAMI Rhode Island is proud to support the introduction of the HOPE Act. Nothing is more important than helping to connect people to the mental health help they need, and this bill, if passed, will increase access to life-saving medication for many Americans,” said Beth Lamarre, Executive Director, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Rhode Island. “There is still a persistent stigma surrounding matters of mental health, which includes obtaining medication, or seeking treatment before a crisis occurs. By making overdose reversal medications accessible in the community, lives will be saved, and people will be given the hope for a healthier future.""

“Expanding access to naloxone is essential to saving lives in the midst of the opioid crisis,” said Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “The Having Overdose Protection Equipment (HOPE) Act takes a critical step by allowing State Opioid Response grant funds to be used for public access overdose reversal kits. This legislation ensures people have immediate, low-barrier access to life-saving medication in high-traffic areas. These kits empower bystanders to act quickly during an overdose and help reduce fatalities. NAMI is proud to support this important bill.”

“We all are aware of the dramatic decrease in opioid overdose death over the last year – reported as up to 25% nationally,” said Linda Hurley, President and CEO of CODAC Behavioral Healthcare. “This is attributed to an increase in treatment availability, changes in illicit product, and most importantly to the remarkable proliferation of naloxone. We must continue this trend. Thank you Congressman Amo for the Hope Act. Insuring public accessibility of naloxone is critical to decreasing the death toll from this insidious disease. “

“The HOPE Act is a commonsense, bipartisan solution that will save lives. Naloxone kits funded through the State Opioid Response program would give communities the flexibility they need to confront the overdose crisis head-on,” said Libby Jones, Associate Vice President, Overdose Prevention Initiative,Overdose Prevention Initiative (OPI). “These kits are as essential as fire extinguishers or AEDs—lifesaving tools that should be available everywhere. This bill proves that bipartisanship is possible when the goal is clear: preventing needless deaths and keeping people connected to care. We cannot afford to restrict what works. The HOPE Act gives states another critical tool to stop overdoses before they become fatalities.”

“The Addiction Professionals of North Carolina proudly endorses this legislation,” said Sara Moscato Howe, CEO, Addiction Professionals of North Carolina. “As professionals who are committed to assisting those with opioid use disorders, we believe this legislation is an important step to ensure that people – and especially our youth – have access to life-saving equipment in as many settings as possible. If our workforce is to succeed in its fight against substance use, we will need every tool available to us, including increased access to Naloxone and Naloxone training. We look forward to collaborating with Rep. McDowell to pass not only this legislation, but also more bills in the future that will make North Carolina and the rest of our country safer and healthier.”

The HOPE Act is endorsed by: The Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC); National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI); Drug Policy Alliance; Overdose Prevention Initiative; Rhode Island NAMI; CODAC Behavioral Healthcare; Jim Carroll, Former Director of National Drug Control Policy; FFF Enterprises/HarborPath; Addiction Professionals of North Carolina; Fentanyl Victims Network; Fentanyl Fathers; and Race Against Drugs.

Background

The SOR grant program helps states and territories combat the opioid crisis by expanding access to FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and supporting comprehensive prevention, treatment, and recovery services. The program's goal is to reduce treatment gaps and overdose deaths nationwide.

In October 2024, Amo joined Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse in delivering $2.3 million in federal funding for the City of Providence to combat the opioid epidemic through the bipartisan Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act.

Amo and Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse also secured $125,000 in federal funding for the Drug-Free Communities Support Program in Little Compton and Tiverton.

In September 2024, Amo joined the Rhode Island Delegation in delivering $11,363,011 for Rhode Island through the federal State Opioid Response (SOR) grant, administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-introduces-amendment-defense-bill-prevent-deportation-veterans,Magaziner Introduces Amendment to Defense Bill to Prevent Deportation of Veterans without Due Process,2025-09-08,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Today U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) will offer an amendment to the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to protect U.S. servicemembers, veterans and their families from deportation without due process or access to legal counsel.

The amendment is in direct response to the Trump Administration’s continued arrest, detention, and deportation of veterans and their family members since taking office. In July, Magaziner co-hosted a Homeland Security Committee oversight forum to investigate reports of abuse by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the Trump Administration.

At the forum, Magaziner heard testimony from Alejandro Barranco, a U.S. Marine veteran and son of Narciso Barranco, who has lived and worked in the United States since the 1990s. Narciso was violently detained and beaten by ICE agents while working as a landscaper, an incident captured on video.

In another case, 55-year old Sae Joon Park, a U.S. veteran and Purple Heart recipient originally from South Korea who came to the U.S. at age 7, self-deported after facing the threat of detainment and removal by the Trump Administration.

On another occasion, the wife of a U.S. Marine veteran and mother of two was detained by ICE during a green card appointment, despite having lived in the United States for more than a decade. She had just given birth to their second child and was still breastfeeding when she was detained and taken away to an ICE facility four hours away from their home.

“President Trump promised that his administration would go after criminals and the ‘worst of the worst.’ Instead, his administration has targeted veterans who faithfully served our country in uniform,” said Magaziner. “My amendment to this year’s defense authorization bill makes clear that those who served deserve respect and due process from the government they fought to protect.”

The annual NDAA sets annual defense and national security-related policies and authorizes funding levels for the U.S. Department of Defense.

Magaziner’s amendment is co-sponsored by Reps. Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), John Larson (CT-01), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Yassmin Ansari (AZ-03), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Laura Friedman (CA-30), and Dan Goldman (NY-10).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-introduces-amendment-defense-bill-protect-veteran-homelessness,"Magaziner Introduces Amendment to Defense Bill to Protect Veteran Homelessness Program, Keep More Veterans Housed",2025-09-08,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) announced he will be introducing an amendment to the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to protect a critical program for homeless veterans that the Trump Administration has moved to end.

The HUD-VASH program was established in the 1990s to support veterans with housing vouchers and support services, and is cited as helping reduce veteran homelessness by more than 50 percent between 2010 and 2024.

In July, President Trump signed an executive order to end “Housing First” policies, which includes the HUD-VASH program, citing that they “deprioritize accountability and fail to promote treatment, recovery and self-sufficiency.” Magaziner’s amendment would block the Trump Administration’s plans to alter or dismantle Housing First principles and ensure the federal government continues to fund this effective program that keeps veterans off the streets and in stable housing.

“President Trump is putting veterans last by targeting a proven, bipartisan program that helps those who served our country stay off the streets and rebuild their lives in stable housing,” said Magaziner. “My amendment reverses this horrible decision and ensures that veterans who fought to protect us have a safe place to call home, something both parties should agree on.”

HUD-VASH, along with other federal housing programs, is being targeted by the Trump Administration for promoting a “Housing First” model, which prioritizes providing homes to individuals experiencing homelessness before requiring addiction treatment or mental health care. In reality, the HUD-VASH program pairs veterans with VA caseworkers to connect them with critical services such as health care, mental health treatment, addiction recovery, and job search assistance.

The NDAA sets annual defense and national security-related policies and authorizes funding levels for the U.S. Department of Defense.

Magaziner’s amendment is co-sponsored by Reps. John Larson (CT-01), Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Steven Horsford (NV-4), and Cleo Fields (LA-06).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-statement-co-sponsoring-hr-3565-stop-transfer-certain-offensive,Magaziner Statement on Co-Sponsoring H.R. 3565 to Stop the Transfer of Certain Offensive Weapons to Israel,2025-09-05,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“Today, after much reflection, I cosponsored H.R. 3565, a bill to stop the transfer of certain offensive weaponry from the United States to Israel. I have taken this action to do my part to pressure Prime Minister Netanyahu to implement a ceasefire in Gaza, allow significantly increased humanitarian aid into Gaza, and to stop the expansion of settlements in the West Bank.

This was not a decision I arrived at lightly. As a person of Jewish heritage, I strongly support the existence of Israel as an independent state and a refuge where Jews from around the world can live in safety. The current war was initiated by Hamas, a bloodthirsty terrorist organization that continues to hold innocent hostages and must be brought to justice. Israel has a right to defend itself from attacks like the horrific atrocities committed by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and I remain sickened by the rise of antisemitism in our country and globally in recent years, including at times in the anti-war movement.

Nevertheless, we are well past the point where a continuation of the war in Gaza serves the best interests of Israelis, Palestinians or Americans and the United States must exert pressure on Netanyahu to change course.

The acts of terror committed by Hamas are horrific. But injustice does not justify injustice, and the prolonged suffering of civilians in Gaza must end. From the early days of the war, credible reports emerged of the Israeli Defense Forces utilizing massive 2,000-pound bombs in densely populated urban areas, killing civilians at an unacceptable rate. The Israeli government has also withheld food and medicine from the civilian population in Gaza, causing mass suffering.

The Israeli government claims that the Hamas-controlled authorities in Gaza exaggerate the death toll from the conflict and the extent of the famine. But it is impossible to verify these claims because the Israeli government refuses to allow independent journalists into Gaza without IDF escort.

The continued war in Gaza puts Israelis at risk as well, as the actions of the Netanyahu government have significantly eroded the global support that has been vital to Israel’s security for decades.

At the same time, extremist settlers in the West Bank continue to act with impunity, killing civilians including five Americans, with no legal consequence. Israeli cabinet ministers speak openly of permanently annexing both the West Bank and Gaza and expelling the millions of Palestinians who have called those areas home for generations.

In April of 2024, I joined 85% of my colleagues in Congress in voting to provide military assistance to Israel. I did so, mindful of the deadly threat that Hamas, Iran, Hezbollah, and other bad actors posed to the civilian population in Israel and across the region.

But over the past year and a half, the situation has changed. Thankfully, the military strength of Hamas, Iran and Hezbollah have all been significantly degraded. At the same time, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and lawless killing of Palestinians in the West Bank have reached crisis levels. Netanyahu has presented no plan for achieving peace and appears to believe that the United States will comply with his every whim. It is time to try something different.

I will continue to support defensive systems like Iron Dome that protect civilians, as well as targeted actions to remove what remains of Hamas, but I will not support providing the Netanyahu government with additional offensive weaponry until food and medicine are surged into Gaza, Netanyahu presents a workable proposal to end the war that ensures the safety and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians, independent journalists are permitted to report from Gaza, and rule of law is enforced impartially in the West Bank.

This is an issue that ignites passion among many Rhode Islanders. The trauma of October 7 continues to weigh on many in the Jewish community, and the images of children suffering in Gaza shock the conscience. My approach will continue to be to use whatever influence I have to end the war and build a future in which Israelis and Palestinians can live in a lasting and secure peace.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/ri-delegation-supports-attorney-general-neronha-lawsuit-to-defend-revolution-wind,RI Delegation Supports Attorney General Neronha Lawsuit to Defend Revolution Wind,2025-09-04,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“We thank Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha, along with Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, for defending good union jobs and clean energy infrastructure set to deliver low-cost power to Rhode Island working families. We applaud their leadership and support all efforts to ensure the nearly finished Revolution Wind project is completed and brought online to provide clean, American-made, affordable energy to homes across the region.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/assistant-secretary-interior-unprepared-and-evasive-under-magaziners,Assistant Secretary of Interior Unprepared and Evasive Under Magaziner’s Questioning About Revolution Wind Stop-Work Order,2025-09-04,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner (RI-02), a member of the House Natural Resources Committee, questioned Department of the Interior official Adam Suess about the Department's decision to issue a stop-work order for the Revolution Wind project. Suess serves as the Acting Assistant Secretary and the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management at the Department of the Interior, and oversees the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM.)

On August 22nd, BOEM issued a stop-work order to Ørsted for their Revolution Wind project off the coast of Rhode Island, throwing over a thousand union tradesmen and women’s jobs into jeopardy. The project is 80 percent complete and set to deliver affordable, American-made energy to over 350,000 homes.

During the hearing, Rep. Magaziner questioned Suess on the rationale for the stop-work order and the impact on Rhode Islanders’ energy costs and workers. Suess was unable to provide a clear explanation.

You can watch the full exchange between Magaziner and Trump Administration official, Suess, here.

Magaziner said during his remarks:

“I come from Rhode Island, where we have been hurting with high energy costs, high electricity costs in particular, for years. And relief is finally in sight because the Revolution Wind Project and offshore wind development is contracted to deliver more than a third of my state's electricity demand at well below the market rate, saving Rhode Islanders on their energy bills, lowering the cost of business for manufacturers while employing hundreds of American workers.

So why have you stopped this project? [...] It is unacceptable. It is hurting my constituents. It is hurting our country, and we need answers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-roy-introduce-new-bipartisan-bill-ban-congressional-stock-trading,"Magaziner, Roy Introduce New Bipartisan Bill to Ban Congressional Stock Trading",2025-09-03,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner (D-RI-02) and Chip Roy (R-TX-21) introduced a new comprehensive bipartisan bill to ban Members of Congress from trading stocks.

The announcement of the new legislation comes after months of negotiations amongst a bipartisan group of Members who have been leading voices in the push to ban stock trading in Congress. Magaziner worked with Roy and a coalition of leaders on this issue, including Reps. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Tim Burchett (R-TN-02), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY-14), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) to craft the bill that bans stock trading by Members of Congress and creates a strong enforcement structure and penalties. This is the first time that members who had previously introduced competing bills to ban Congressional stock trading have come together to support a single bill and work together to achieve passage. The lawmakers today held a press conference in the U.S. Capitol to unveil theRestore Trust in Congress Act and call for an immediate vote on the proposal.

The Restore Trust in Congress Act will prohibit Members of Congress, their spouses, dependent children, and trustees from owning, buying, or selling individual stocks, securities, commodities, futures, and other comparable assets.

The Restore Trust in Congress Act was introduced with 16 original cosponsors, eight from each party: Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX-21), Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-RI-02), Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN-02), Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY-14), Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL-13), Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA-10), Rep. Dave Min (D-CA-47), Rep. Zach Nunn (R-IA-03), Rep. Joe Neguse (D-CO-02), Rep. Michael Cloud (R-TX-27), Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA-49), Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC-05), and Rep. Josh Riley (D-NY-19).

The legislation is a reconciliation of several existing proposals to ban Members of Congress from trading stocks into one single measure, including Magaziner’s TRUST in Congress Act, introduced earlier this year.

“We must take a strong stand against corruption and end stock trading by members of Congress once and for all,” said Rep. Seth Magaziner. “I have made banning Congressional stock trading a priority through my time in the House, and this bipartisan bill is our best chance at finally getting it done.”

""It’s far past time to ban Members of Congress from day trading stocks, and for the first time, a bipartisan coalition is standing together behind a united proposal to do just that. The Restore Trust in Congress Act ensures that members of Congress will no longer be able to put the stock market first in their official decisions. This bill strikes a balance between being easy to comply with, but without tons of loopholes for Members to continue trading while on the job. We must vote on this bill and put this conflict of interest to bed for once and for all. I look forward to seeing the Restore Trust in Congress Act move through the legislative process,"" said Rep. Chip Roy.

“We are governing in a moment when public trust is at historical lows. Only two in ten Americans trust the government to do what is right for them and they are constantly seeing their elected officials selling them out to the highest bidder. They see the people elected to represent them instead making decisions to increase their own personal wealth. Finally, we are putting the American people first with this bipartisan legislation, which will ban stock trading for Members of Congress and set a new standard of integrity,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal.

“Ending congressional stock trading has been one of my top priorities every Congress, because it speaks to something bigger than politics: trust. A bipartisan coalition of this magnitude sends a clear message to the American people: we hear you, and we’re taking action to ensure no Member of Congress uses public office for personal gain once and for all. If you’re in Congress, you serve the public interest—not your portfolio. We owe the American people nothing less, and we won’t stop fighting until this bill becomes law,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick.

“The information we have access to as members of Congress should only be used to serve our constituents, not ourselves. Because of the support of the American people on this issue, we have generated the momentum necessary to be able to introduce the bipartisan Restore Trust in Congress Act. And we look forward to bringing this to the floor and banning the trading of individual stock by members of Congress,” said Rep. Ocasio-Cortez.

“The American taxpayer always gets the short end of the stick, while Congress profits at their expense. I hope Congress has the guts to stand up and pass legislation to ban member stock trading,"" said Rep. Tim Burchett.

You can view or download photos from the press conference here.

You can view a full video recording of the press conference here.

The full text of the legislation can be found here.

BACKGROUND

Magaziner has been a leading voice in the push to ban Members of Congress from trading stocks. In January, he introduced the bipartisan TRUST in Congress Act with Rep. Chip Roy, the proposal with the broadest support across party lines. The measure was originally introduced in 2020 by former Rep. Abigail Spanberger (VA-07).

The push for a ban gained new momentum this year when House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries became the first party leader in either chamber of Congress to publicly endorse such a measure. Shortly after, President Donald Trump indicated he would sign a bill to ban stock trading if it came to his desk for signature. In May, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson expressed broad support for a ban.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:07:37Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressional-labor-caucus-leaders-urge-secretary-burgum-lift-stop-work-order,Congressional Labor Caucus Leaders Urge Secretary Burgum to Lift Stop Work Order on Revolution Wind Project,2025-09-02,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Seth Magaziner (RI-02) and Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), co-leads of the Congressional Labor Caucus’ Building Trades Task Force along with Caucus Co-Chairs Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Steven Horsford (NV-04), and Mark Pocan (WI-02) issued the following statement in response to the stop work order issued by the Department of the Interior on the Revolution Wind Project off the coast of Rhode Island:

“Over a thousand union tradesmen and women’s jobs are hanging in the balance due to the stop work order on Revolution Wind, a project that is 80 percent complete and set to deliver affordable, American-made energy to over 350,000 homes.

Along with other clean energy projects the Administration has halted, this is yet another attack on construction workers. Secretary Burgum needs to lift the order and allow these hardworking men and women back to finish the job, provide for their families, and help achieve American energy independence.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:07:37Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/ri-delegation-condemns-trump-administration-s-decision-to-withdraw-funding-for-port-of-davisville,RI Delegation Condemns Trump Administration’s Decision to Withdraw Funding for Port of Davisville,2025-08-30,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Providence, RI – U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, along with U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner (RI-02) and Gabe Amo (RI-01) issued the following statement in response to a Trump Administration order to withdraw $11.25 million in federal funding for Rhode Island’s Port of Davisville Project:

“The Port of Davisville is a driver of Rhode Island’s economy and supports well-paying union jobs. We have helped secure federal funding to make sure Quonset is strongly positioned to grow the Ocean State’s blue economy, including our offshore wind industry. These upgrades would have improved and modernized the Port of Davisville, created more jobs, improved security, expanded capacity for growth, and spurred future investments. Cancelling this grant will drive down efficiency, put even more local union workers in limbo, and make our port less secure. We’re committed to doing everything we can to reverse yet another reckless decision by this administration.”

The decision was announced by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) this afternoon as part of a $679 million termination and withdrawal of funding to support offshore wind-related ports and manufacturing facilities.

The Port of Davisville — Rhode Island’s premiere public port — is a key part of the Quonset Business Park, which hosts more than 200 companies and 12,900 jobs. This project, which is being funded through DOT’s Port Infrastructure Development Program to rehabilitate the North Berth at Pier 1 to support more efficient use of the facility.

Last Friday, the Trump Administration issued a stop-work order halting construction on Revolution Wind. The project is 80% complete: all foundations are in place and 45 of 65 turbines have been installed. Once completed, Revolution Wind will power 350,000 homes in Rhode Island and Connecticut with reliable, affordable, union-built energy. The project has employed more than 1,000 local union workers and completed more than 2 million union work hours. The project underpins nearly $1.3 billion in state investment, new shipbuilding jobs, and critical upgrades to Rhode Island’s ports, shipyards, and supply chain.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-leads-discussion-with-rhode-island-blue-economy-manufacturers-about-supporting-industry-in-washington,Amo Leads Discussion with Rhode Island Blue Economy Manufacturers about Supporting Industry in Washington,2025-08-28,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Newport, RI – YESTERDAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) hosted business leaders from Rhode Island Blue Economy manufacturers and Rhode Island Commerce to discuss what he’s doing in Congress to counter Trump’s anti-business policies, including arbitrary tariffs and cuts to foundational science research.

“Rhode Island is a world leader in Blue Economy innovation,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “From developing futuristic unmanned undersea vehicles to producing new materials capable of withstanding severe ocean conditions, Rhode Islanders are building the future, right here in our state. Yesterday’s conversation provided insight into how the Trump administration’s erratic policies are hurting Rhode Island businesses. Thank you to JAIA Robotics, Nautilus Defense, Enginuity, Composites Energy Technologies, and Rhode Island Commerce for joining me and sharing your valuable insight – I have great ideas to take back to Washington where I will continue to work in Congress to support the Blue Economy sector.”

“As a rapidly growing small business in the Ocean State, Composite Energies Technologies (CET) is proud to be advancing the next generation of undersea vehicle technology from right here in Rhode Island,” said Chase Hogoboom, President of Composites Energies Technologies. “The support of our Congressional Delegation and organizations like Polaris MEP is critical to ensuring that companies like ours can continue to pioneer cutting-edge solutions, expand advanced manufacturing capacity, and strengthen the nation’s competitive edge in maritime defense and Blue Economy innovation.”

""Congressman Amo’s bipartisan efforts to grow the economy, uphold U.S. scientific and engineering leadership, and protect the environment for future generations—ensuring clean water, fertile lands, and sustainable ocean management is an inspiration to the team at Jaia Robotics,” said Ian Estaphan Owen, CEO and Co-founder of JAIA Robotics. “His support to develop a thriving Blue Tech industrial base that can deliver capabilities to warfighters at the speed-of-need, is essential to deter our adversaries from disrupting world security. Jaia is proud as a dual use company to use its technology to help Congressman Amo deliver those wins for the US and its allies.""

“For over 100 years, Goodwin Bradley has molded parts for everything from the Model T engine to the first nuclear submarine,” said Chris Goodwin, President of Goodwin Bradley. “To remain competitive for the next 100 years, we must keep increasing funding for technical education programs to close the skills gap and grants to keep manufacturing growing. Thank you to Congressman Amo, for championing these values in Congress, and supporting Rhode Island manufacturers.”

“The blue economy is vital to both Rhode Island and Enginuity and it was a valuable opportunity to share our perspective directly with Congressman Amo,” said Shaun Hawkins, Enginuity Business Development Manager. “We appreciate the chance to have our voice heard on the challenges and opportunities facing manufacturers in this sector.”

Background

Congressman Amo, serves as Ranking Member of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Environment Subcommittee, where he has been a strong advocate for the Blue Economy in Congress.

On August 21, 2025,Amo introduced the bipartisan, bicameral AUKUS Improvement Act which would remove duplicative requirements for defense collaboration between the U.S., the U.K., and Australia and would streamline maritime defense manufacturing within the alliance.

In the 118th Congress, Amo introduced the Blue Economy and Innovation Act which would support transdisciplinary marine research, the development of innovative technology to address challenges affecting ocean science, and expand the scientific workforce capable of studying or managing ocean science.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://amo.house.gov/press-release/ri-delegation-slams-visit-by-labor-secretary-chavez-deremer-days-after-sudden-stop-work-order-on-revolution-wind,RI Delegation Slams Visit by Labor Secretary Chavez-DeRemer Days after Sudden Stop-Work Order on Revolution Wind,2025-08-28,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,RI,Gabe Amo,A000380,amo.house.gov,amo,https://amo.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Providence, RI – U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo today issued the following joint statement calling on Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer to visit with trades workers put out of work by the Trump administration’s stop-work order freezing construction on Revolution Wind:

“The Trump administration’s reckless decision to halt work on the nearly finished Revolution Wind project is a betrayal of the Ocean State trades workers who have prepared for lifelong careers in offshore wind. Rhode Island is deeply invested in the success of our blue economy, and proud of our efforts to build out a nation-leading offshore wind workforce. Instead of having her staff make a giant banner of the President to hang at the Labor Department, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer would be wise to listen to and learn from the hardworking Rhode Islanders that the Trump administration put out of work this Labor Day weekend in their corrupt quest to crush clean energy. We hope she does so on this trip.”

Last Friday, the Trump Administration issued a stop-work order halting construction on Revolution Wind. The project is 80% complete: all foundations are in place and 45 of 65 turbines have been installed. Once completed, Revolution Wind will power 350,000 homes in Rhode Island and Connecticut with reliable, affordable, union-built energy. The project has employed more than 1,000 local union workers and completed more than 2 million union work hours. The project underpins nearly $1.3 billion in state investment, new shipbuilding jobs, and critical upgrades to Rhode Island’s ports, shipyards, and supply chain.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-co-leads-bill-make-subscription-cancellations-easier,Magaziner Co-Leads Bill to Make Subscription Cancellations Easier,2025-08-28,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner joined Reps. Brad Sherman (CA-32) and Chris DeLuzio (PA-17) tointroduce the Click to Cancel Act, legislation that will make it easier for Americans to cancel costly recurring subscriptions. Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) recently introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

If passed, the Click to Cancel Act will require companies to:

Provide a simple, direct mechanism to cancel a subscription and immediately stop recurring charges.

Obtain clear and informed consumer consent before enrolling anyone in an auto-renewal program.

Clearly disclose all material terms before collecting any billing information.

“Too many people are stuck paying for subscriptions they don't want, and that companies make nearly impossible to cancel. I am proud to co-lead this bill to make it easier to cancel recurring payments and put power back in the hands of everyday people,"" said Magaziner.

“This legislation would ensure that auto-renew subscription services are transparent, easy to cancel, and required to gain explicit consent from the consumer before they are charged for services,” said Sherman.

“Subscriptions are Corporate America’s new favorite way to try and rip people off, and it’s driving people crazy that they can’t easily cancel,”said Deluzio. ""Cancelling subscriptions should not be full of tricks and traps that waste hard-earned time and money—cancelling should be just as easy as signing up. That’s what the ‘Click to Cancel’ policy from former FTC Chair Lina Khan was all about, and I’m proud to co-lead the bill in the House of Representatives to make it law. Congress should act now to pass this and save people money.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/magaziner-reintroduces-bill-crack-down-wage-theft,Magaziner Reintroduces Bill to Crack Down on Wage Theft,2025-08-27,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WARWICK, RI — Today, U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner held a press conference to announce his bill, the Don’t Stand for Taking Employed American’s Livings (Don’t STEAL) Act, that would make wage theft a felony nationwide. Rep. Magaziner was joined by labor leaders who described the human toll of wage theft in Rhode Island.

“Every day, working people across the country are cheated out of the wages they’ve earned. It’s outrageous that someone can be jailed for stealing a television, but not for stealing money from a worker’s pocket,” said Magaziner. “I am proud to again introduce my Don’t STEAL Act to make sure every American who puts in a hard day’s work receives the fair pay they deserve.”

""Wage theft happens across many industries, and it takes many forms. Employers refusing to pay promised wages, failing to pay for all hours worked, or not paying overtime premiums deprives working people of billions of dollars annually. It also leaves hundreds of thousands of affected workers and their families struggling to make ends meet,"" said Karen Hazard, Secretary-Treasurer of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO. ""Here in Rhode Island, we know what that means in real life. It means a parent not being able to put food on the table, a family struggling to keep up with rent, and hardworking people being robbed of the dignity of a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work.""

“Wage theft should be treated like any other crime of theft. It not only hurts those not being paid, but their families as well as law abiding businesses and their workers who compete with the unscrupulous companies that violate the law. This is particularly prevalent in construction industry where an unscrupulous contractor can shave 20-30% of their bid by not paying the legally required wages, benefits, and workers compensation requirements under the law,” said Mancini, Executive Director, Build RI.

“If any of us were to walk into a store and take $1,000 Dollars’ worth of merchandise, we would be thrown in jail and charged with a felony no questions asked. But, if an employer steals $1,000 dollars from the paychecks of workers, they are given a slap on the wrist and will do the same thing again given the opportunity. At the end of the day, a criminal is a criminal, I don’t see the difference,” said Tim Melia, President, UFCW Local 328.

While most employers treat their workers fairly, a small number of bad actors shortchange employees by paying less than promised, denying overtime, or stealing tips. Wage theft disproportionately affects low-wage workers and reduces tax revenue.

Yet under current federal law, wage theft violations often result in little more than a slap on the wrist, failing to deter bad actors from cheating their workers.

The Don’t STEAL Act strengthens penalties for wage theft, bringing them in line with other forms of criminal theft under federal law.

Under this legislation, employers who willfully fail to pay wages, deny overtime, or steal tips will face misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the severity of the violation. Currently, wage theft is treated at most as a misdemeanor.

The Don’t STEAL Act brings penalties for wage theft in line with other common forms of theft under federal law. Today, employers who commit willful wage theft can be fined no more than $10,000. This bill eliminates that cap and requires fines to be proportional to the amount of wages stolen.

This legislation is endorsed by: AFL-CIO; Center for American Progress; International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW); International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT); International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC); International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT); Laborers International Union of North American (LiUNA); North America’s Building Trades Union (NABTU); Public Citizen; Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, Transportation Workers International Association (SMART); United Association Union of Plumbers, Fitters, Welders, and Service Techs (UA); United Auto Workers (UAW); United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW).

Rhode Island endorsements include: International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) - Dist. Council 11, Laborers International Union of North America (LiUNA) Local 271, Rhode Island AFL-CIO, United Association of Plumbers and Pipe Fitting, Local 51, North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, Carpenters Local Union 330, International Association of Bridge Structural and Ornamental Iron Workers Local 37, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Local 251, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 99, 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, Build RI, United Nurses & Allied Professionals, UAW Region 9A, United Food and Commercial Workers, Local 328.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressional-labor-caucus-leaders-urge-trump-administration-support,Congressional Labor Caucus Leaders Urge Trump Administration to Support Registered Apprenticeship Programs,2025-08-26,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,RI,Seth Magaziner,M001223,magaziner.house.gov,magaziner,https://magaziner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Yesterday, Representatives Seth Magaziner (RI-02) and Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), co-leads of the Congressional Labor Caucus Building Trades Task Force along with Congressional Labor Caucus Co-Chairs Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Steven Horsford (NV-04), and Mark Pocan (WI-02), sent a letter to Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer urging her to prioritize proven, high-quality Registered Apprenticeship Programs in the Administration’s upcoming workforce development plan.

In April, President Trump issued an Executive Order entitled “Preparing Americans forHigh-Paying Skilled Trade Jobs of the Future” that calls for the Secretaries of Labor, Commerce, and Education to develop a plan to reach 1 million new active apprentices nationwide. The Representatives’ letter urges the Administration to ensure this plan supports high-quality Registered Apprenticeship models with strong track records of placing apprentices in good-paying jobs, as opposed to low-road employers that exploit workers.

“Registered Apprenticeship Programs are the gold standard for workforce training. Through years of demonstrated success, these programs have a proven track record of high graduation and job placement rates in high wage careers for workers” the lawmakers wrote.

You can read the full text of the letter here and below.

Dear Secretary Chavez-DeRemer:

As leaders of the Congressional Labor Caucus, we are writing in response to the April 23, 2025, Executive Order entitled “Preparing Americans for High-Paying Skilled Trade Jobs of the Future,” which directs the Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of Commerce, and the Secretary of Education to prepare a plan to reach and surpass one million new active Registered Apprentices. As you work with your counterparts in the Departments of Education and Commerce to finalize this plan, we urge you to prioritize proven, high-quality Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) in your efforts to grow the number of apprentices across the country.

RAPs are the gold standard for workforce training. Through generations of demonstrated success, these programs have a proven track record of high graduation and job placement rates for workers, while also prioritizing safety, wage progression, and equal employment opportunities for Registered Apprentices. The quintessential model for these programs is in the building trades where labor unions and their contractor partners annually invest over $2.5 billion in private money for joint apprenticeship training centers (JATCs). These joint labor-management management programs provide debt-free, high-quality training forindividuals seeking a career in construction, not training for one job. As the Department considers approaches to grow the overall number of Registered Apprentices, we urge you to do so in a manner that builds on the successes of the building trades unions’ high-quality RAPs and JATCs and to not take any regulatory actions that would threaten to disrupt these programs.

As the Department develops its Registered Apprenticeship plan, we also encourage you to identify steps to solidify the quality of pre-apprentice and career and technical education (CTE) programs. Accordingly, we urge you to ensure that CTE and pre-apprenticeship programs have a documented partnership with at least one RAP. This will help ensure participants not only receive quality preparation from their program and for a RAP, but also, upon completion of the program, have a clear pipeline into a Registered Apprenticeship.

In the strongest terms possible, we also recommend that your plan does not support subpar training programs that claim to train workers, but instead lead to low-quality jobs or no job at all. Given the high praise that the Department and President Trump have given to Registered Apprenticeship programs, it would be a departure for the Administration to bolster low-road employers that exploit workers. Among other enforcement and quality control measures, the Department should require the public disclosure of the actual wage rates and wage advancement schedule of working Registered Apprentices by program sponsors, as well as barring sponsors who are debarred or suspended from government contracts from registering new RAPs during the term of the debarment or suspension.

We agree that there is a need for more Registered Apprenticeships to train the skilled workers necessary to grow our 21st century economy. As your Department considers how to meet the laudable and ambitious goal of having more than one million new Registered Apprentices, we ask that you build on the success of high-quality RAPs and work with existing high-standard programs, particularly ones in the building trades unions, with a proven track record of training and placing Registered Apprentices.

Thank you for your attention to this letter and look forward to your response. We are eager to work with you on this issue, and please do not hesitate to contact us if the Congressional Labor Caucus can be of further assistance.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z