url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409099,"<span class =""kicker"">Would create ambassador position to combat anti-Semitism</span>Smith anti-Semitism bill headed to Presidents desk",2020-12-31,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, at the very last legislative session of the 116th Congress, the House of Representatives passed legislation authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) that would elevate the State Department's Anti-Semitism Special Envoy positionfirst created by Smith's legislative provisions in 2004to an Ambassadorship, giving more clout to address the alarming rise in anti-Semitism worldwide. As the Senate has already approved the amended legislation, the bill now heads to President Trump's desk to be signed into law.   We've seen a rapid rise in anti-Semitic acts and rhetoric in many countries over the past decade: Jews harassed, assaulted and even murdered; synagogues attacked; graves and cemeteries desecrated; anti-Semitic slurs; and targeting the State of Israel with what my friend, the great Soviet refusenik and religious prisoner Natan Sharansky, calls the three Ds' demonization, double-standard, and de-legitimization, said Smith.   My new law will raise the Special Envoy to the rank of Ambassador, and enable him or her to report directly to the Secretary of State, Smith said. That will give the Special Envoy more seniority and diplomatic accessboth inside the U.S. Government and when engaging foreign governmentsthat is needed do the job effectively.  Especially with the rise of on-line anti-Semitism, we see that hate abroad easily crosses borders and impacts our communities here at home.Now more than ever we need to integrate our efforts both in the United States and abroad to stop the hate and keep our communities safe, said Smith, a founding member of both the House Anti-Semitism Caucus and the Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism, which is comprised of legislative-branch members from Israel, the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia.   Smith's bill, the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism Act (H.R. 221) will ensure that the U.S. leadership position in fighting anti-Semitism worldwidethe Special Envoy at the State Departmentwould not only be promptly filled, but would be strengthened. The position, as well as the State Department's Office to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism, was created and required by Smith's original provisionsof theGlobal Anti-Semitism Review Act of 2004. Smith's new bill would also mandate the timely nomination of a Special Envoy.
  Under the bill the Special Envoy position:
 Would be elevated to the rank of Ambassador at the State Department and report directly to the Secretary of State;
 Would be the primary advisor to the U.S. government in monitoring and combating anti-Semitism;
 Would not be saddled with duties irrelevant to combating anti-Semitism, or double-hatted;
 Must be filled (if vacant) by requiring the President to nominate a Special Envoy within 90 days of the bill becoming law and not later than 120 days after the position becomes vacant.
 I would like to thank my House colleagues, especially Congressman Brad Schneider (D-IL), for working with leadership in both parties to pass this bill. I also would like to thank Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Jackie Rosen (D-NV) and Kristen Gillibrand (D-FL), along with their staffs, for their hard work in securing passage on the Senate side.I would also like to acknowledge and thank Special Envoy Elan Carr for his tremendous contribution in fighting anti-Semitism.And finally, I want to thank the many wonderful Jewish groups who fought hard for this legislation.
 The House voted overwhelmingly to pass Smith's H.R. 221 in 2019. In the previous 115th Congress, Smith introduced identical legislation, H.R. 1911, which passed the House in 2018, but stalled in the Senate. Smith's bill is endorsed by numerous organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League, B'nai B'rith International, the Simon Wiesenthal Center, the American Jewish Committee, Hadassah, the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, and the Jewish Federations of North America.
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http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409097,"Rep. Smith votes 'YES' to increase COVID-19 relief assistance checks to $2,000",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04) today said: The increase of COVID-19 relief checks to $2,000 coupled with yesterday's extension of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), expanded unemployment benefits and other assistance are justified and necessary to assist tens of millions of people devastated by the pandemic and like previous COVID relief packages are a bridge to a post-COVID world.  


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https://payne.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-payne-jr-s-colorectal-cancer-prevention-bill-becomes-law,"Rep. Payne, Jr.s Colorectal Cancer Prevention Bill Becomes Law",2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Media Contact: Patrick Wright  -- Patrick.Wright@mail.house.gov
Washington, D.C. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr.'s bill to decrease colorectal cancer deaths and increase cancer screenings nationwide became law last night. 
The bill, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act (H.R. 1570), passed with strong Democratic and Republican support as part of the Omnibus Appropriations and Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act (H.R. 133), an end-of-the-year government funding bill. President Trump signed it into law last night. Now that it is law, Medicare beneficiaries will be covered when doctors remove cancerous growths, or polyps, during routine colorectal cancer screenings, called colonoscopies. Before the bill became law, Medicare covered the screenings only and patients could face surprise charges for the polyp removals after the procedure. The bipartisan bill had three co-leads: Reps. Donald McEachin (D-VA), Rodney Davis (R-IL), and Dave McKinley (R-WV). 
This is a great day for millions of Americans at risk for colorectal cancer, said Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. I have wanted to pass this bill since I lost my father, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Sr., to the deadly disease in 2012. Now that it is the law, doctors have more freedom to improve the health and safety of millions of Americans. I know it will increase the number of Americans who get screened for colorectal cancer now that they will not get a surprise bill after the procedure and help save thousands of lives annually. I want to thank my colleagues, Reps. Donald McEachin, Rodney Davis, and Dave McKinley, for their leadership in getting this bill bipartisan support and helping to make it a law. 
Colorectal cancer is second only to lung cancer in U.S. cancer deaths every year. Yet, the survival rate from colorectal cancer is one of the highest for all forms of cancer if it is caught early. Currently, it causes more than 50,000 deaths in the United States every year. It is even more deadly for minorities. African Americans are 20 percent more likely to get colorectal cancer and 40 percent more likely to die from it compared to other groups.
Patients should be able to access life-saving, early detection screenings and treatment for colorectal cancer without the fear of out-of-pocket costs, said Rep. A. Donald McEachin. I know firsthand how important it is to catch this disease before it progresses  a routine colonoscopy saved my life. By closing the existing Medicare loophole, today's passage of the bipartisan Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act will expand access to preventative treatment that could save thousands of lives from this insidious disease, and I look forward to it becoming law.
In addition, colorectal cancer rates have doubled for Americans under 50 years old in the last 30 years. With the passage of this bill, Medicare is held to the same standard of coverage as private health insurance companies, which must cover screenings and surgeries to remove growths.
Expanding access to colorectal cancer screenings will save lives, and that's why I'm so excited our bipartisan legislation to expand access to those screenings is included in government funding legislation for the upcoming year, said Rep. Rodney Davis. Colorectal cancer is the 2ndleading cause of cancer death among men and women combined in the U.S., and those deaths are preventable. As the husband of a 21-year colon cancer survivor, I know how important those screenings are. I'd like to thank my colleague, Rep. Donald Payne, Jr., for his leadership on this issue in the House and look forward to our legislation being signed into law very soon.
Colorectal cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, but with screening and early detection it can easily be treated. Yet, a common barrier stopping thousands of seniors from getting checked is a surprise bill after a routine screening colonoscopy, said Rep. Dave McKinley. By passing the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act, we can stop surprise billing and remove the obstacle limiting seniors from being screened early. Closing this loophole could prevent upwards of 2,000 colorectal cancer cases over the next 10 years alone.
# # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sires-urges-unified-international-response-to-nicaragua-s,Congressman Sires Urges Unified International Response to Nicaraguas Descent into Dictatorship,2020-12-24,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC  Today, Congressman Albio Sires (D-NJ), Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, Civilian Security, and Trade, released the following statement calling for a unified international response to Daniel Ortega's increasingly brazen acts of authoritarianism in Nicaragua:
As the Nicaraguan people are struggling through a deadly pandemic and the aftermath of two devastating hurricanes, President Daniel Ortega has not lifted a finger to help. Instead, he is using these catastrophes as a smokescreen to further tighten his grip on power. His regime's latest steps include issuing a new law that empowers Ortega to arbitrarily ban opposition politicians from running in the 2021 elections and using the recently passed foreign agents law to persecute civil society organizations and human rights activists. Ortega seems to believe the world's attention is elsewhere, and he is accelerating his march toward consolidating a one-party dictatorship in Nicaragua.
The international community must join together in drawing a line in the sand. We should do all we can to support the Nicaraguan people in this time of need, but we should also work to prevent funds from getting into the hands of Ortega. This means ensuring that any foreign aid and loans from international financial institutions bypass the criminal Ortega dictatorship altogether. The U.S. Government should work more closely with our European and Latin American allies to ratchet up our sanctions and ensure Ortega and his allies can find no safe haven. Every police officer who beats up a dissident, every mayor who coordinates repression with Ortega's paramilitaries, and every judge who hands down a ludicrous sentence against a regime critic is an accomplice in Ortega's crimes and should be held accountable.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-statement-trump-s-shameful-ndaa-veto,Norcross Statement on Trumps Shameful NDAA Veto,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"CHERRY HILL, NJ  Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today issued the following statement after President Trump vetoed the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021, which passed in the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 335-78-1 and in the U.S. Senate by a vote of 84-13.
President Trump is intent on making America less safe with his delusional and dangerous actions. He's apparently on the side of Russians and Confederates, while the rest of us stand with our military families and veterans.
Russia's deep and sophisticated cyber attack on our government agencies shows that there are persistent, credible threats to our national security, but Trump refuses to acknowledge it and today, shamefully vetoed the bipartisan defense bill that would protect against future attacks.
This veto shows that Trump clearly doesn't care about our servicemembers and their families. Congress voted overwhelmingly to provide our men and women in uniform with a long-overdue pay raise, hazard pay and child care help that Trump is now preventing.
There is no room for any symbols of hate or bigotry on our military bases, but the President continues to support the Confederates that fought against America to keep people in chains. It's just plain racist and wrong.
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Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/us-orders-100-million-additional-covid-19-vaccine-doses,U.S. Orders 100 Million Additional COVID-19 Vaccine Doses,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) On December 23, 2020, the Federal Government reached an agreement with Pfizer and BioNTech to receive an additional 100 million doses of their COVID-19 vaccine. Pfizer and BioNTech have already agreed to supply the U.S. with 100 million vaccine doses by March 31, 2021. This new order will increase the total number of vaccine doses to 200 million by July 31, 2021.
The procurement of more vaccine doses is an encouraging step forward in getting Americans inoculated and back to their normal routines, said Rep. Sires. These additional doses will be added to our existing stockpile in the coming months and will assist in the rapid distribution of the vaccine across the country. As more doses of the vaccine come in, we will continue vaccinating those at risk and essential workers before moving onto the general public. While news of further vaccine delivery is greatly welcomed, it is imperative that we remain vigilant in our fight against the virus in the meantime. Throughout this holiday season, we must continue to wear a mask, keep our distance, and wash our hands to protect both ourselves and our communities.
Congressman Sires has also helped introduce bipartisan legislation with Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) to fund states public awareness campaigns to promote the safety and efficacy of the vaccine. You can view more information on that legislation here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409075,"<span class =""kicker"">The Monitor of Trenton article on Smith congressional hearing</span>Genocide in Nigeria 'happening before our eyes,' N.J. congressman says at hearing",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Kurt Jensen, Catholic News Service

The Catholic bishop of Gboko, Nigeria, and the Knights of Columbus added their voices to a Dec. 17 congressional hearing spotlighting sectarian violence in Nigeria in which thousands of Christians have been killed simply for their faith identity.
The hearing of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission was spurred by recent developments: the fatal shooting of 51 peaceful protesters in Lagos Oct. 20; the kidnapping of over 300 schoolboys in Kankara, which government officials there said was instigated by bandits masquerading as the Islamist terrorist group Boko Haram; and the Dec. 7 State Department designation of Nigeria as ""a country of particular concern"" under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998.
The boys were rescued Dec. 18, and while the hearing included discussion of a congressional resolution of condemnation plus the imposition of sanctions, it didn't get into the specifics of either response. Sanctions would become a decision of the incoming Biden administration.
""This is a genocide that's happening right before our eyes,"" said Republican Rep. Chris Smith of New Jersey, the commission's co-chair.
Smith, a native of Hamilton and ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee, has chaired seven previous hearings on human rights violations in Nigeria, the most populated country in Africa.
The United States and the international community must do more to mitigate the violence because the dire situation on the ground warrants it and because the people of Nigeria deserve to live in peace and freedom with their fundamental human rights guaranteed, he said.
Bishop William A. Avenya of Goboko agreed, saying, ""It is depressing that our Middle Belt region has truly become a vale of tears, a region where mass burials are very common. Since the consistent attacks began some five years ago, there has hardly been a single day without killing in one part of the region or the other.
In fact, one cannot give the accurate figures of those who have been killed since the beginning of these atrocities,"" he said.
""Interestingly,"" Bishop Avenya continued, ""no one has ever been arrested or questioned or prosecuted or convicted of any charge related to this spree of killings. Yet, these killers are not invisible, neither are they unknown. Instead, these atrocities are made to look as though they were ethnic or communal clashes.""
""Nigeria's Christians have suffered grievously at the hands of Boko Haram and other groups,"" said Carl Anderson, Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus, in a statement. ""The Christians of Nigeria, both Catholic and Protestant, deserve attention, recognition and relief now.""
The death toll from the conflict in Nigeria's Middle Belt region caused by the pastoralists, or cattle herders, who are mainly Muslim and ethnic Fulani, against farmers, who are predominantly Christian, relies on analyses from humanitarian groups, since it is never verified by the government.
An estimated 2,000 are believed to have been killed annually between 2011 and 2016 as the conflicts over land and a dwindling water supply, exacerbated by climate change, continue.
Religious organizations have urged the American government to pressure the Nigerian state to provide protection.
Earlier this year, the International Committee on Nigeria calculated, based on what they said were primary sources on the ground, that since 2015, Fulani militant attacks are ""exponentially increasing,"" killing more than 9,700 in the past five years.
Adding to the urgency, the latest statistical risk assessment of the Holocaust Memorial Museum's Simon-Skjodt Center for the Prevention of Genocide calculated that Nigeria faces a 7.3 percent risk of experiencing a new mass killing by the end of 2021, the 6th highest in the world. In 2019, Nigeria was ranked 17th with a 5 percent risk.
Genocide has become virtually a daily threat, said Annigje J. Buwalda, executive director of Jubilee Campaign USA. ""We would additionally ask that more consideration be proffered to ... the rising frequency of deadly midnight attacks on predominantly Christian farming communities in Nigeria, which are carried out by groups of heavily-armed radical Islamist Fulani militants,"" she said.
In November, Democratic Reps. Al Green and Joaquin Castro, both from Texas, introduced a House resolution supporting the peaceful protest movement in Nigeria.
""The resolution is not enough, but it is something we can do,"" Green told the hearing. He said it meant ""that Black lives matter, no matter where they may be.""
Robert Destro, an assistant secretary of state, said he hoped for an ""early warning network"" to detect atrocities before they occur.
But he said one principal difficulty is Nigerian officials have told him it's ""impossible"" that religion is a factor in the killings. ""They need active ground-level intelligence to be able to protect themselves.""
Destro said of President Muhammadu Buhari's government, ""They're going to have to want to change."" This article was originally published on Dec. 21, 2020 and can be found online at:
https://trentonmonitor.com/Content/Default/World-Nation/Article/Genocide-in-Nigeria-happening-before-our-eyes-N-J-congressman-says-at-hearing/-3/274/24538",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-murphy-announce-250-million-investment-offshore-wind-industry,"Norcross, Murphy Announce $250 Million Investment in Offshore Wind Industry",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"PAULSBORO, NJ  Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) joined New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy alongside EEW, rsted, legislators and members of the building trades, today to announce a $250 million investment in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility to build steel components, known as monopiles, for offshore wind turbines that will serve the entire United States offshore wind industry. The facility, which will be located at the Paulsboro Marine Terminal in Gloucester County, is the largest industrial offshore wind investment in the United States to date and will create more than 500 high-paying jobs at full build out. Construction on the facility will break ground in January 2021, with production beginning in 2023.
This major investment shows that America's clean energy future is being built right here in South Jersey.The new wind turbine manufacturing site will power our economy by building the clean technology that will power our homes and businesses,said Congressman Norcross.The need to transition to a clean energy economy is more important than ever before, and I applaud Governor Murphy, Senate President Sweeney, EEW, and Holt for recognizing that and taking action. Critically, this project will generate hundreds of union construction jobs and I look forward to seeing the great work of our local building trades members.
Developing New Jersey's offshore wind capabilities has been a key priority of my Administration since taking office in 2018, said Governor Murphy. Offshore wind is a once-in-a-generation opportunity that allows us to protect our environment while significantly expanding and securing the state's economy for the immediate and long term. This is the largest industrial offshore wind investment in the United States to date and will create hundreds of high-paying jobs at a time when New Jersey's economy has been ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic. Coupled with the creation of the New Jersey Wind Port that I announced earlier this year, this investment will continue to cement New Jersey as the leader in offshore wind in the United States.
I'm proud to be part of this landmark event that will provide long term sustainable jobs for the southern New Jersey economy, while also helping the Governor meet his goals for his Energy Master Plan and providing another milestone project that provides green energy, said Dan Cosner, IBEW 351 and South Jersey Building Trades.
This is an important step forward that will support a new era of economic development and job growth in South Jersey with the ability to produce economic benefits for generations to come, said Senate President Steve Sweeney. Wind energy is our future - it's clean, it's safe, and it offers the opportunity for New Jersey to be a dominate leader in creating a new sector to our economy. Bringing offshore-wind manufacturers to New Jersey is key to making the state a hub of the supply chain for wind energy products and services. The new headquarters for EEW will locate a leading manufacturer of monopiles to the Paulsboro Terminal, where it will help make the port a thriving center of commerce. The collaboration between the public and private sectors to get this done is a powerful reminder of what we have to do to create economic opportunities and what we can do to promote offshore wind energy.
This headquarters agreement to support offshore wind projects will lead to the creation of hundreds of high-paying, sustainable jobs which will greatly benefit the region and its residents, said Assemblyman John Burzichelli. I applaud Governor Murphy for helping us take a major step in cementing New Jersey as the leader in offshore wind projects along the eastern seaboard. This is a prime example of public investment paying dividends for the residents of our state.
Offshore wind presents an amazing opportunity for New Jersey to build a stronger, fairer economy while creating more clean energy and advancing important environmental justice goals. The offshore wind industry is growing rapidly, and thanks to Governor Murphy's vision, New Jersey is well-positioned to be a hub for the American industry, said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. As the first major offshore wind supply chain investment in the northeast, EEW's manufacturing headquarters in Paulsboro will create new opportunities for New Jersey businesses and attract more offshore wind companies to New Jersey. EEW's strong track record of apprenticeship programs will also help position New Jersey's workers for the best opportunities in offshore wind. Along with the New Jersey Wind Port in Lower Alloways Creek, this project will pave the way for long-term, equitable economic growth throughout New Jersey.
I have no doubt that through offshore wind we are laying the foundation for a prosperous and equitable future, said New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. Establishing New Jersey as the East Coast hub of this exciting industry is paramount to the Governor's vision for a clean energy innovation economy that works for all residents. The Board selected Ocean Wind as New Jersey's first offshore wind project for the economic benefits and supply chain development opportunities, like Paulsboro Marine Terminal, that would bring additional value to the state. I applaud rsted and EEW for their commitment to these aims, and look forward to the success of offshore wind in New Jersey.
Whether on the road or in the water, strong transportation access is at the heart of economic success, said New Jersey Department of Transportation Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti.The New Jersey Department of Transportation takes pride in being a part of this important port project by providing funding for road infrastructure and dredging operations.
EEW is delighted to establish our latest manufacturing operations in New Jersey, as a major step forward for the offshore wind industry, and further establishing EEW as the global leader in monopile foundations, said Christoph Schorge, CEO EEW-group based out of Erndtebrck Germany. EEW's manufacturing technology and years of experience will bring forward a factory capable of producing the world largest foundations required to support the ever increasing wind turbines of the future.
The Governors announcement of this massive manufacturing facility at the Port of Paulsboro demonstrates New Jersey's commitment to clean energy and the creation of hundreds of long term manufacturing jobs, said Lee Laurendeau, CEO of EEW-American Offshore Structures. This state-of-the-art factory will be a catalyst for change in Paulsboro and the surrounding area, creating much needed construction, manufacturing and supply chain jobs for many decades. Along with the New Jersey Wind Port, the Paulsboro monopile factory will secure New Jersey's position as the manufacturing epicenter of the emerging Offshore Wind Industry. EEW would like to thank the Governor and Orsted for their commitment and support in enabling this exciting opportunity for South Jersey.
This announcement represents a significant milestone for the Ocean Wind project, and New Jersey's offshore wind goals, said David Hardy, Chief Executive Officer of rsted Offshore North America. New Jersey is poised to be a leader in the American offshore wind industry with key investments in its port infrastructure, like the Port of Paulsboro and the New Jersey Wind Port. As the state looks to rebuild its economy post COVID-19, rsted will be there to partner with the state to create jobs, and opportunities for local suppliers to enter into this new American industry.
The South Jersey Port Corporation welcomes EEW and rsted to Paulsboro, said Andrew Saporito, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, South Jersey Port Corporation. This new public private project positions our ports as the epicenter of the rapidly growing Offshore Wind Energy projects, both in New Jersey and along the East Coast. This partnership represents a pivotal next step for the development of the Paulsboro Marine Terminal. It will bring jobs to the region during the construction of the facility and new highly-skilled full-time jobs to staff it upon completion, as well as additional jobs for waterfront labor responsible for handling the associated cargo and completed monopoles.
The Governor's announcement represents a major investment in the future of wind energy in New Jersey, said Tom Holt Jr., Principal of Paulsboro Waterfront development, the Holt real estate arm that serves as landlord of the Paulsboro Marine Terminal. But it also creates exciting potential to support hundreds of new jobs in the wind energy logistics business  that is, the creation of new business opportunities to support wind energy in New Jersey. We applaud the Governor's leadership on wind energy, and we look forward to partnering in the development of a whole new wind logistics support industry in Paulsboro and all along the Delaware River and Atlantic Ocean.
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Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-watson-coleman-kim-pascrell-secure-one-year-reprieve-sandy-victims-vow,"Pallone, Watson Coleman, Kim, Pascrell Secure One-Year Reprieve for Sandy Victims, Vow to Keep Fighting",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Andy Kim (NJ-03) and Bill Pascrell (NJ-09) today announced a one-year delay in recoupment efforts for debt owed to the federal government in relation to Superstorm Sandy has been included in the year end federal spending bill. These recoupment efforts known as clawbacks have blindsided homeowners because many New Jersey residents applied for loans and benefits offered by various federal programs based on the federal government's recommendation.
New Jersey families were decimated by Superstorm Sandy and are still on the hook for millions of dollars in federal clawbacks through no fault of their own. A one-year delay in recoupment of these funds will help thousands of New Jersey families. My colleagues and I will continue fighting for full relief in the next Congress, said Congressman Pallone. I'm thankful that Governor Murphy has already frozen recoupment of these funds at the state level. I vow to continue fighting for Sandy survivors and New Jersey homeowners in the next Congress.
The one-year delay pushes the deadline for recoupment from 2022 to 2023 and will provide relief for families currently required to pay back disaster relief funds they received after Superstorm Sandy. Many homeowners who received relief funds have been required to repay some or all the funds, creating a financial burden during the economic crisis. Representatives Pallone, Kim, and Watson Coleman, as well as Senator Menendez, introduced the Security After Sandy Act in May, which would provide broad and full relief for Sandy victims.
""It's been a long eight years for Sandy families, and being able to reform an unfair and broken disaster recovery system and permanently stop clawbacks is the news we wanted to see out of Washington.We're proud of our New Jersey delegation for fighting to move the ball forward on clawback forgiveness and incredibly disappointed that Senate Republicans and the Administration rejected efforts to provide broad relief for families.What it does mean is we have another year to keep fighting for what our communities deserve, and that's exactly what we will do,"" said Joe Mangino, New Jersey Organizing Project Board President.
America came together after Superstorm Sandy to help New Jerseyans through a very dark period, said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. Now almost a decade later, some families face the prospect of having to pay back money that was erroneously given to them through no fault of their own, even when the family member who received them has passed away, their home was foreclosed upon, or they filed bankruptcy. The inclusion of this provision will go a long way to help rectify this situation and help families put some of the lingering pain of Sandy behind them during this difficult time for New Jersey families.
""This extension is a step in the right direction as we work towards a complete solution for our neighbors still struggling to recover from Superstorm Sandy, said Congressman Andy Kim. I look forward to continuing the fight alongside our advocates in Ocean County and my colleagues in theHouse.""
Even years later, Garden Staters are still coping with the damage left by Sandy and worried about storms on the horizon. As a state, we insisted on big federal support in the days after Sandy. Since then, we pushed for arbitrary deadlines to be removed,said Congressman Pascrell. Our delegation has never for a day stopped working to make sure that our neighbors get the support they need to be made whole again and are fully protected from future hurricanes. I want to thank our state's Appropriations leader Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, and outgoing Chairwoman Nita Lowey for her constant attention to our state and region.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sires-announces-over-2-million-grant-for-newark-community,Congressman Sires Announces Over $2 Million Grant for Newark Community Health Center,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.)  Today, Congressman Albio Sires announced that Newark Community Health Centers, Inc. received a $2,534,540 grant by the Department of Health and Human Services, through the Health Resource and Services Administration (HRSA) Health Center Cluster grant program.
Newark Community Health Center plays a major role in delivering essential health care to the people of Newark and the surrounding area, Said Congressman Sires. This federal funding grant from the Department of Health and Human Services will help Newark Community Health Center to continue offering quality, affordable health services to residents in the 8th District.
The federal funds awarded through this grant can be used to help continue operations for health centers across the country. The purpose of this grant is to provide financial assistance to Health Centers so they can continue offering comprehensive services in underserved communities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sires-statement-on-house-passage-of-900-billion-coronavirus,Congressman Sires' Statement on House Passage of $900 Billion Coronavirus Relief Legislation,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.)  Today, Congressman Albio Sires released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 133, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, which contains funding for the remainder of fiscal year 2021 as well as COVID-19 relief:
As the coronavirus pandemic continues to flare up across the nation, and we are faced with both the health and economic consequences of the virus, it is passed time that the hard-working American people get more relief, said Congressman Sires. As we move into the winter it is essential that we provide appropriate support to help the millions of people struggling because of this virus. While everyone would have preferred to reach a deal sooner, I am confident that the measures in this legislation, and the billions in authorized funding that House Democrats fought for, will go a long way in providing concrete relief to the public.
H.R. 133 includes numerous provisions to address various consequences of the pandemic including:
COVID-19
This legislation authorizes billions in new funding to help get the coronavirus pandemic under control in the United States. Provisions are included to accelerate the equitable distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine while strengthening our ability to conduct contact tracing and testing, two essential aspects of keeping the spread of the virus low.
Direct Payment and Tax Benefits
Also included is up to $600 in direct payments for adults and children in a second round of direct payments. Unlike the first round of direct payments, my colleagues and I fought to ensure that individuals without a social security number can receive a stimulus payment if their spouse has a social security number. Additionally, the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit will be improved to ensure that families who faced unemployment or reduced wages during the pandemic are able to receive a strong tax credit based on their 2019 income. The agreement also extends and improves the Employee Retention Tax Credit to help workers during COVID-19 related closures or reduced wages and provides a tax break for employers offering paid-sick leave.
Unemployment Benefits
The agreement also includes an extension of federal unemployment benefits and creates a new $300 payment for unemployed individuals. The length of time an unemployed individual can claim unemployment benefits has been increased by 11 weeks. There is also the creation of the Mixed Earner Unemployment Compensation, which provides a federally funded $100 per week additional benefit to individuals who have at least $5,000 a year in self-employment income but are disqualified from receiving Pandemic Unemployment Assistance because they are eligible for regular state unemployment benefits.
Housing Assistance
H.R. 133 includes a new moratorium on evictions and authorizes $ 25 billion in funding to authorize critically needed rental assistance to ensure as many Americans as possible can remain in their homes. Additionally, this legislation includes millions in targeted housing vouchers to reduce homelessness, and enhances the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit to help increase affordable housing now and in the future.
Small Business Support:
This legislation includes new funding and policy changes to help small businesses, including minority, veteran, and women owned businesses. $284 billion is included for forgivable Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, with dedicated funds set aside for much smaller businesses. $15 billion in relief funds is included for live venues, independent theaters, and cultural institutions; and $20 billion in funds was authorized for targeted EIDL grants, which are crucial to many smaller businesses.
Other Provisions
This relief bill includes a 15% increase to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and also includes boosts to child nutrition benefits to help those dealing with hunger. $10 billion is included in the legislation for child care assistance to assist parents that are transitioning back to the workplace. Billions of funds are also included for State and local governments to assist their response to COVID-19. The legislation also authorizes over $7 billion in funds to help fight COVID-19 across the globe, and includes a bipartisan agreement to end surprise medical billing. A Full section by section review of the relief legislation can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409089,"House, Senate pass of bipartisan COVID relief bill",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"The House and Senate are expected to vote tonight on a COVID relief and omnibus legislative package that provides critical COVID relief for unemployed Americans, their families and small businesses struggling under the weight of the impact of COVID, while also funding the government through the end of the fiscal year in September 2021. Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) supports the final COVID relief bill to provide approximately $900 billionin federal assistance to continue to respond to the COVID pandemic and its impact on the economy.   


    
        
            
        
    

 This long-overdue legislation has additional funding for COVID vaccine accessibility and distribution, money for schools so they can safely reopen, and another round of $600 direct payments for Americans who have been hit the hardest during this pandemic, said Smith, member of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus which helped spark dialogue for negotiations and push through a final bill. This relief bill also will extend the successful Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) that has kept many small businesses afloat with desperately-needed relief, and will add deductibility for PPP expenses.
 Once signed into law, the act: 
 
    provides direct payments up to $600 per eligible adult and per qualifying child.
    extends two key CARES Act programs about to sunsetthe Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program to help the self-employed and so-called gig economy workers, and the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation benefit extension programwhich were both extended for 11 weeks, avoiding a financial crunch for millions of Americans. The new timeline will prevent another deadline that would have stopped the programs in March.
    will add $300 to all weekly unemployment benefits.
    allows workers who rely on multiple jobs and have lost income to be eligible for a weekly $100 boost.
    helps schools by providing additional funding so they can safely reopen. Provisions provide elementary, secondary and higher education $82 billion of funds to reopen classrooms and prevent virus transmission.
    has additional funding for vaccine accessibility and distribution.
    continues the eviction moratorium set to expire at year's end through the end of January.
    includes $25 billion for rental assistance for families facing eviction. Eligible renters would be able to receive assistance with their rent and utilities.
    provides $45 billion for the hard-hit transportation sector, including $16 billion to help keep airlines solvent and support their employees and contractors; $14 billion for transit systems; $10 billion for highways, $2 billion for intercity buses, $2 billion for airports and $1 billion for Amtrak. 
 
 Today's bill is the sixth major COVID package Smith has supported in 2020. The CARES Act was the third and the largest phase of the federal response enacted into law. Smith supported Phase I, the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2020which provided $8.3 billion for treatment and prevention measures in NJ. Phase II, the Families First Coronavirus Response Actprovided paid sick leave, family medical leave, free testing, and expanded unemployment benefits among other provisions to help working Americans.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409090,"<span class =""kicker"">House, Senate pass for Smiths legislation on Belarus</span> Belarus Democracy and Human Rights Act of 2020 to head to White House",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Even as the people of Belarus continue their brave struggle against a brutal dictatorship, a bill authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee(HFAC), was expected to pass tonight by both houses of Congress to ramp up pressure on entrenched Belarus President Alyaksandr Lukashenko following his regime's violent crackdown and political repression that came in the wake of his fraudulent August 9 re-election.  

 As prime sponsor of theBelarus Democracy, Human Rights, and Sovereignty Act of 2020, Smith said his law, which passed the House Nov. 18, will put pressure on Europe's last dictatorship to respect the sovereignty of its own citizens.
 By passing this bill Congress is recognizing what the struggling, courageous people of Belarus have been fighting since August 9 with their massive rallies: the recent election was clearly fraudulent, and has no credibility in the international community with anyone except Lukashenka himself, and perhaps Russia, said Smith, who authored the bill, H.R. 8438, in September to update and reauthorize his previous legislation enacted in 2004, 2006 and 2011 to advance and promote democracy and human rights in Belarus. 
 This bipartisan bill renews sanctions on Belarusian Government officials who have obstructed the country's democratic transition, Smith said. It gives much-needed support to the besieged Belarusian media and to the country's important IT sector. Belarusian hackers who have cracked Lukashenko's firewall have been able to broadcast truthful news accounts to the Belarusian people. This bill also commissions several much-needed fact-finding efforts to get an accurate picture of the situation on the ground. The Belarusian people are fighting to preserve the independence and sovereignty of their country despite the ominous threat posed by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
 The bipartisan bill, which is included in the legislation before Congress this week, enjoys a strong list of co-sponsors, to include Chairman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), Ranking Member Michael McCaul (R-TX), and Reps. Marcy Kaptur (R-OH), Adam Kinzinger (R-IL), and William Keating (D-MA).
 Since the fraudulent election was staged more than four months ago, Belarusians have organized massive rallies demanding Lukashenka leave power despite Lukasneko's brutal crackdown in which Lukashenka has arrested thousands, tortured hundreds and attempted to shut down the press and internet.
 Once enacted, the Smith law would promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Belarus, as well as support the aspirations of the Belarusian people to preserve the independence and sovereignty of their country in the face of threats from Russian President Putin.
 Smith's pending law will:
 reauthorize the 2004 Belarus Democracy Act for the third time;
 State that it is U.S. policy to reject the fraudulent August 9, 2020 Belarusian presidential election;
 refuse to recognize Lukashenka as the legitimately elected leader of Belarus; 
 call for a new presidential election in Belarus that complies with OSCE standards; 
 continue to call for the immediate release of all political prisoners in Belarus, including U.S. citizen Vitali Shkliarov and leading opposition figure Maryia Kalesnikava; 
 refuse to recognize any incorporation of Belarus into a so-called Union State that is under the control of Russia;
 Expand the list of Belarusian authorities who may be subject to U.S. sanctions beyond the country's senior leadership and security services to include those directly responsible for the crackdown on independent media; 
 strengthen the current human rights sanctions regime on Belarus to include Russian individuals complicit in the political repression in Belarus and the crackdown on independent media;
 authorize U.S. assistance to promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Belarus and calls on the Administration to reevaluate and increase U.S. assistance to Belarus in light of the current political crisis;
 call on the U.S. President to provide the United States Agency for Global Media (including VOA, Radio Free Europe) with a surge capacity for its programs and activities in Belarus;
 require a U.S. strategy to promote expanded broadcasting, internet freedom and access to information in Belarus;
 call on the United States to continue to coordinate with the European Union, its member states, the United Kingdom and Canada to support the democratic aspirations of the Belarusian people and to deter Russia's attempts to undermine Belarus' sovereignty and independence, and;
 require the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Director of National Intelligence, to submit two reports to Congress on Russia's efforts to undermine Belarus' sovereignty and independence, and on the assets owned by Lukashenka.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-statement-house-passage-coronavirus-relief-omnibus,Norcross Statement on House Passage of Coronavirus Relief & Omnibus Appropriations,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC  U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) voted today to pass H.R. 133, Omnibus Appropriations and Emergency Coronavirus Relief Package, which includes $900 billion in federal relief to help Americans respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
New Jersey and the nation are facing a historic public health emergency and economic crisis. Every American urgently needs relief, and some assistance is finally on the way, said Congressman Norcross. While we are providing an additional round of coronavirus relief today, this is only a fraction of what working families and small businesses need to survive. I will continue fighting for additional resources and working closely with South Jersey officials and health care leaders to ensure our communities get the tools and supplies needed to combat the virus and keep residents healthy and secure.
Norcross added: The Trump administration has crushed New Jerseyans with the SALT cap, and now with this insufficient coronavirus package  but change is on the horizon. The incoming Biden-Harris Administration understands what American families and communities need, and I look forward to building on this legislation in the new year to deliver the relief Americans deserve.
A summary of the COVID-19 relief provisions are available here.
A summary of the appropriations provisions are available here.
###
Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-applauds-passage-omnibus-and-coronavirus-relief-bill,Pallone Applauds Passage of Omnibus and Coronavirus Relief Bill,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC  Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Omnibus and Coronavirus Relief Bill:
This legislation is an all-encompassing package that delivers the resources we need to end the coronavirus pandemic, get help to hardworking Americans, and secure progress in our fight against climate change. It provides funding for vaccines, COVID-19 testing and contact tracing, and direct support to American families.
I'm pleased that this bill will help my home state of New Jersey. This bill gives New Jersey residents and communities who still face extraordinary financial strain as a result of Superstorm Sandy's devastation an additional year to pay back disaster relief funds. We also continue to help the fishing industry up and down the Jersey Shore with an additional $300 million in federal aid for fishing communities. Entertainment venues will finally receive the funding they need to survive, helping to preserve venues like the Stone Pony and dozens of music venues in Central Jersey and other historic places that mean so much to our communities.
This bill sets standards that will help ensure we can maintain a safe, thriving horseracing industry. Horseracing at Monmouth Park in my district and across the country is more than just sport  it is a tradition that we look forward to year after year. This bill provides the guidelines necessary to protect Thoroughbred racehorses and establish trust in the authenticity of Thoroughbred races.
As Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, I authored key provisions in the bill to accelerate our response to the ongoing public health crisis that is devastating our country. Most importantly, this bill provides significant funding to states to limit COVID-19 transmission, including funding for the equitable distribution of vaccines and significant resources to continue the development and supply of additional vaccines. It also provides billions of dollars for expanded testing and contact tracing. It also gives up to $50 dollars per month to struggling families to help pay their internet bills. We cannot lose an entire generation of students to the digital divide.
This bill also protects Americans from surprise medical bills and represents the most significant expansion of patient protections since the passage of the Affordable Care Act.It's long past time for Congress to take decisive action to protect consumers from the unreasonable and unacceptable practice of surprise billing. These bills cause tremendous financial devastation and a significant emotional toll for the families who receive them. I'm glad we were able to get the job done.
I also fought to include language that will address the climate crisis by reducing the usage of hydrofluorocarbons and transitioning our economy to a clean, low-carbon future. I also authored key provisions that will help protect consumers from COVID-19 scams. Scammers are exploiting Americans who are struggling financially and peddling bogus treatments and sham testing kits from unscrupulous sellers. This bill will give the federal government more power to go after bad actors who seek to profit off this difficult time.
This bill is an important first step in our fight to address our country's most challenging problems head on. In the coming months, we will work with the incoming Biden Administration to find ways to build on this progress.
The legislation delivers the resources we need to end the coronavirus pandemic, protect lives and livelihoods, and address climate change, including:
Support for COVID-19 vaccines, testing, tracing and treatmentthrough $69 billion in critically needed funding for COVID-19 testing, contact tracing, vaccines, mental health, and support for health care providers. This funding includes $22 billion for testing, contact tracing, surveillance and mitigation, $19 billion for vaccines and therapeutics, including the manufacture, production, and purchase of vaccines, therapeutics and ancillary supplies, and nearly $9 billion in additional funding to support distribution of lifesaving COVID-19 vaccines that will help bring an end to the pandemic.
Continued support for small business with $284 billion for first and second forgivable PPP loans for businesses and expanded PPP eligibility for nonprofits.
Help for unemployed Americans by averting the sudden expiration of Unemployment Insurance benefits for millions and adding a $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans out of work.
Combating climate change by directing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to phase down the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons by 85 percent over 15 years. Enacting this provision will position the United States to lead the world in avoiding up to 0.5 degree Celsius of warming.
Transitioning to a clean, low-carbon future by investing in clean energy, distributing energy resources, energy storage systems, and microgrids  all of which are crucial to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Making pipelines more secure by repairing methane leaks and requiring natural gas pipeline operators to undertake advanced leak detection and repair programs to help to curtail greenhouse gases and combating the climate crisis.
The omnibus and COVID-19 relief package will also go a long way to help communities in New Jersey. The bill:
Provides financial relief to families currently required to pay back disaster relief funds they received after Superstorm Sandy with a 1 year extension. Many homeowners who received relief funds have been required to repay some or all the funds, creating a financial burden during a time of economic crisis.
Helps the fishing industry with an additional $300 million in additional aid for the fishing community.
Ensures clean drinking water through $53 million in funding for research and cleanup assistance for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) needed to establish drinking water and cleanup standards.
Delivers aid to the live entertainment and music venue industry through $15 billion for grants to eligible live venue operators, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions.
Protects racehorses and jockeys by establishing minimum standards for an anti-doping and medication control program, racing surfaces, pre-race inspections, equine medical directors, workout requirements and safety stewards.
Allocates funding for transportation that includes $1 billion for Amtrak nationally and $2 billion in assistance for motorcoach and bus operators, school bus companies, passenger vessel operators, passenger ferries and other U.S. transportation service providers.
In addition, the bill prioritizes help for those who need it most. Among its many provisions, it:
Provides additional direct paymentscushioning the economic blow of the coronavirus crisis with a second round of economic impact payments of $600 for most taxpayers.
Protects patients from surprise medical bills including from air ambulance providers, by ensuring they are only responsible for their in-network cost-sharing amounts, including deductibles, in both emergency situations and certain non-emergency situations where patients do not have the ability to choose an in-network provider.
Extends expiring public health programs for three years including Community Health Centers, the National Health Service Corps, Teaching Health Centers, and Special Diabetes Programs.
Bridges the digital divide through $7 billion to assist struggling families better afford their internet service. Eligible households may receive a discount of up to $50 off the cost of internet service and a subsidy for low-cost devices such as computers and tablets.
Strengthens food security addressing rising hunger with $13 billion in nutrition assistance that helps families put food on the table and a 15 percent increase to the maximum SNAP benefit for six months. It also allocates $400 million to the Emergency Food Assistance Program.
Keeps families in their homes through $25 billion in critically needed rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes and an extension of the eviction moratorium.
Supports better schools through $54.3 billion for the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund to addressing learning loss among students and for school facilities repairs and improvements, including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems projects to improve indoor air quality in school facilities and $22.7 billion for the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://payne.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-payne-jr-votes-fifth-coronavirus-stimulus-bill-help-struggling-americans,"Rep. Payne, Jr. Votes for Fifth Coronavirus Stimulus Bill to Help Struggling Americans",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Media Contact: Patrick Wright  -- Patrick.Wright@mail.house.gov
Washington, D.C. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. was proud to vote for the Omnibus Appropriations and Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act today to support New Jersey residents and all Americans during the coronavirus health and economic crisis.
The roughly $900 billion emergency coronavirus stimulus bill (H.R. 133) would provide critical funding for American families, childcare facilities, and small businesses as well as additional aid to protect Americans from the coronavirus. It includes a $600 payment to low and middle-income Americans with an additional $600 per child. It provides an additional $300 per week for American workers who are still unemployed due to the coronavirus. In addition, it would allocate $10 billion to support childcare facilities as well as an additional $284 billion to the popular Paycheck Protection Program to help small business pay workers and bills during the crisis.
I was proud to vote for this bill to help struggling residents of New Jersey as well as Americans nationwide deal with the effects of this coronavirus, said Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. We needed to pass something before the end of the year because people are suffering this winter and thousands were at risk of losing their housing. It is a relief to see both parties come together to support our country at a time when we have a vaccine and we are closer to defeating the coronavirus. 
In addition, it included several issues that Rep. Payne, Jr. fought to include in the latest stimulus bill. It provides $15 billion to help the nation's airline workers after the Congressman wrote letters to House and Senate leadership as well as President Trump to include it in this coronavirus stimulus bill. It extends the deadline for cities, counties and states to use their CARES Act stimulus money after the Congressman wrote a separate letter to House and Senate leadership to support it. Also, it includes language from Rep. Payne, Jr.'s Pandemic Planning and Response for Schools Act, which would allow local health officials to work with local officials in school districts across the country to protect staff and students in schools during the global pandemic. 
This stimulus bill is the fifth one passed this year to help Americans. Along with the benefits stated above, it includes $20 billion to help minority small businesses directly, $82 billion for education, $13 billion for food stamps and child nutrition benefits, and $25 billion in rental assistance to help Americans avoid housing insecurity. Along with the financial benefits, the bill will provide extra coronavirus relief and help Americans avoid surprise bills for emergency and scheduled care.
Rep. Payne, Jr. voted for four critical appropriations bills that became law to support Americans during this public health crisis already. The most recent stimulus package, The Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act (H.R. 266), provided $484 billion to enhance the health and economic security of all Americans, including $310 billion to the Paycheck Protection Program for small businesses, $75 billion to health care facilities for protective equipment and care, and $25 billion to enhance the country's coronavirus testing capability. 
The first law, the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act (H.R. 6074), provided $8.3 billion to fund medical efforts. The second one, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201), included free coronavirus testing for Americans and mandatory paid sick leave for workers. The third one, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act (H.R. 748) authorized more than $2 trillion to Americans in coronavirus aid, including direct payments to low and middle-income workers, increased unemployment benefits, $349 billion to small businesses through grants and interest-free loans, $150 billion to state and local governments to help them handle coronavirus-related expenses, and $200 billion to support America's hospitals and health care workers.
# # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409074,"<span class =""kicker"">Communications High sweeps App Challenge</span>Rep. Chris Smith announces winners of 2020 Congressional App Challenge",2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) today announced the winners of this year's New Jersey Fourth Congressional District Congressional App Challenge (CAC), part of a nationwide competition for middle and high school students to showcase their software app-developing skills and teamwork. The winning app, CollabraCart, was designed by Communications High School students Erin Hardiman of Spring Lake, Melody Lin of Freehold and Jacob Rosegarten of Morganville.
 I am pleased to congratulate all the winning students at Communications High School, said Rep. Smith. The first place-winning app, CollabraCart,' is very timely in the COVID era in which we find ourselves. It can match people who are struggling to purchase groceries with individuals who are seeking to donate their time and/or money to help them.

    
        
            
        
    

 During these unprecedented times when many of our fellow New Jerseyans are struggling to maintain their livelihood and feed their families, it was great to see Melody, Erin and Jacob work together and develop an App that will help others in our community.  


 At a user's discretion, the service may stay anonymous, and people may opt to connect with another user through a ""Friends"" feature. All money donated would be used for the payment of somebody's groceries.
  
Timed to coincide with Computer Science Education Week (CSEdWeek), December 7-13, 2020, Smith said this year's contest drew entries from Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
 Twenty-nine students participated in teams and as individuals to design nine apps. Communications High School, a Monmouth County Vocational School District career academy located in Wall Township, swept all three top spots.
 The second-place app is Green Garden, designed by Brigid McCarthy of Manasquan, Abi Cohen of Marlboro, Rina Peshori of Holmdel, who all worked to aid the conservation of at-risk insect species through technology and engagement of an audience with a unique potential to create change. The app serves a dual purpose of education and entertainment. Users take care of and grow their own virtual garden while learning how these efforts, when applied to real life, have the potential to help insect populations.    


    
        
            
        
    

Third-place finisher, Roomiez, was designed by Nate Riehl of Manasquan, Ava Turner of Middletown, and Jake Polvino of Tinton Falls. Roomiez is an app that helps college students find roommates. The app prompts a user seeking a compatible roommate with multiple choice questions and the ability to select interest tags in various categories. The app saves the answers from each user and will only display other users with similar interests, sorting by the closest match first.
ABOUT THE JUDGESRep. Smith expressed appreciation and commendedhis panel of expert judges who scored the apps saying, Thank you to the highly specialized tech-savvy judges for their time and commitment to this competition. It wouldn't be possible without them.
 The three-member panel of high-tech professionals from the district who volunteered as judges were: Debbie Smith (no relation to the Congressman) of Jackson, the Director of Administration/Director of Information Technology for the Office of the Standing Chapter 13 Trustee; Vincent DeTommaso of Holmdel, an app designer for Viacom, and; Stadi Sinclair, Managing Member of Code Ninjas in Red Bank.
 Said Judge Sinclair of CollabraCart: The technical demo showing the app functionality was very clear. Beyond the current crisis this app can be used in communities worldwide to help those who are struggling.

    
        
            
        
    

ABOUT THE CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGEThis is Rep. Smith's fifth year participating in the Congressional App Challenge, which Congress created in 2014 to encourage students to work with their peers to develop computer coding and software application skills. The challenge was created to foster STEM skills (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) among young students and emphasize their importance for the future especially in areas of the economy like cybersecurity, intellectual property, and the app economy.
 The highest scoring app from each Congressional District is eligible to be displayed in the US Capitol Building and featured on the House of Representatives' website, www.house.gov.Due to COVID-19, this year the wi8nning students will be invited to a virtual #HouseOfCode Festival Capitol Hill Reception in the spring, and the winning app receives $75 of credit from Southwest Airlines. The contest is sponsored nationally by the Internet Education Foundation, and 303 members of Congress made the Challenge available in their districts this year. 
 This year's competition was the largest yet, with more students eligible to participate than ever before. The 303 participating Members of Congress represent over two-thirds of Americans, providing inspiration to students in all corners of the nation. The over 6,000 students registered for this year's competition represent the second largest total in the program's history. 
Students are permitted to create an app on any topic using any coding language or platform. This encourages students to harness creativity to address issues in their own communities. This year, over half of the CAC entries directly or indirectly address issues caused by COVID-19. Over 91 percent of students report that they intend to continue coding and 95 percent say they're more likely to pursue a career in STEM after participating in the CAC. 
Middle and high school students from Smith's Fourth Congressional District interested in participating in next year's contest may contact Smith's Freehold office at 732-780-3035 and visit www.congressionalappchallenge.us
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409088,"<span class =""kicker"">Smith chairs Lantos Commission hearing after latest killings, kidnappings:</span>State Dept., humanitarian groups testify on killings in Nigeria, alleged acts by Islamist radicals",2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"The brutal atrocities and continuing threats to Nigerian peace and stabilityespecially to Christians under seemingly relentless attacks by radical Islamists in Nigeriawere at the core of testimony by U.S. State Department officials and human rights organizations at a hearing today, Conflict and Killings in Nigeria's Middle Belt, held by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Co-Chairman of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission.

 Our Middle Belt region has truly become a vale of tears, a region where mass burials are very common. It appears as though what is happening here is part of a grand conspiracy. Our national government has not shown convincing signs of real commitment to ending the menace, said Bishop William A. Avenya of the Nigerian Roman Catholic Diocese of Gboko in his testimony. The mass slaughter of Christians in Nigeria's Middle Belt, by every standard, meets the criteria for a calculated genocide from the definition of the Genocide Convention as acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group as well as the available facts. This has inflicted deep mental, psychological, physical and economic injuries to the affected families and communities.
 Smith, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee, has chaired seven previous hearings on human rights violations in Nigeria, the most populated country in Africa.
 The largest, dominant driver of conflict in the Middle Belt region is committed by Fulani extremists, who appear driven in large part by ethno-religious chauvinism, against mostly Christian farmers  though I do note that elsewhere Shia Muslims are also victims, and that intra-Sunni conflicts also exist within the Muslim community as well, said Smith. The United States and the international community must do more to mitigate the violence because the dire situation on the ground warrants it and because the people of Nigeria deserve to live in peace and freedom with their fundamental human rights guaranteed and because Nigeria is the largest country in Africa and what happens there has an outsized impact in West Africa and in Africa as a whole. Click here to read Smith's opening remarks.  

  Days ago, the kidnapping of an estimated 330 students from the Government Science Secondary School in Kankara recalled other notorious attacks by radical Islamists, such as the April 2014 attack, when more than 270 schoolgirls were abducted from their dormitory in Chibok. About 100 of the girls are still missing. Last month, more than three dozen peaceful demonstrators were killed by government police forces in Lagos, as reported by the media. Over the past six years, Jihadist Fulani Militant Herdsmen reportedly have accounted for 9,000 Christian deaths or 1,500 per year. Breaking news accounts of a reported release of the 330 students were greeted with hope at the hearing.
 Testifying from the U.S. State Department today were lead witness Sam Brownback, Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom and the former Governor, U.S. Senator and U.S. Representative of Kansas, along with Morse Tan, Ambassador at Large for Global Criminal Justice, and Robert Destro, Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor.
Violence has unfolded across rural Nigeria, said Ambassador Brownback. We strongly condemn violence in Nigeria aimed at communities because of their faith  whether those communities are Muslim or Christian, including through attacks targeting religious gatherings. To end these cycles of violence, the Nigerian government must hold to account individuals who perpetrate such unlawful violence and human rights abuses. Failure to do contributes to an environment of escalation and dangerous volatility. Click here to read Ambassador Brownback's testimony.
 Also testifying and/or submitting testimony were Nina Shea,Director,Hudson Institute Center for Religious Freedom; Ann Buwalda,Executive Director,Jubilee Campaign USA; H.E. William Avenya,Bishop of Gboko, Nigeria; Jane Adolphe,Ave Maria School of Law; Udo Jude Ilo,Nigeria Country Officer,Open Society Initiative for West Africa and; Mike Jobbins,Vice President, Global Affairs and Partnerships,Search for Common Ground.
Click here to watch the hearing and witnesses' testimonies.
 Baroness Catherine Cox, CEO of Humanitarian Aid Relief Trust, told the commission she was encouraged that, earlier this week, the International Criminal Court called for an inquiry into war crimes and crimes against humanity, and also that the U.S. State Department finally designated Nigeria as Country of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act. I have had the painful privilege of visiting some of the worst affected areas and have heard directly from survivors of attacks. They have shared  with immense bravery and with tears  personal tragedies of mass slaughter, torture, amputations, rape, forced displacement and destruction of homes, churches and farmland.
 Annigje J. Buwalda, Executive Director of Jubilee Campaign USA, said: Jubilee Campaign publicly calls on the Federal Republic of Nigeria to develop a comprehensive plan and/or policy to address and eradicate the violence against Nigerian Christians at the hands of Islamic jihadist members of Boko Haram and Fulani militants. Her organization also called on the Nigerian government to publicly condemn and fully investigate all acts of violence against religious communities, and establish a timely, accurate, and up to date reporting system on incidences of violent attacks.
 Smith, who has held numerous hearings on Nigerian human rights issues, decided to hold the hearing following the deadly shooting of peaceful protestors in Lagos, Nigeria, on October 20, just the latest in a series of killings and violence in Nigeria under President Muhammadu Buhari's government. The mass killings and atrocities committed by Fulani extremists in Nigeria's Middle Belt region by his Fulani kinsmen have prompted calls to put an end to the killing and depredations aimed mostly at Christian farmers. Smith also previously denounced Buhari's assault upon the rule of law, including his dismissal of Nigeria's chief justice in early 2019 in advance of national elections, and his replacement with a Buhari ally.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409076,"Smith, Suozzi, Cotton unveil bill to combat forced organ harvesting",2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Representatives Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Tom Suozzi (D-NY), and U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-AK), announced bipartisan legislation in the House and Senate today called the Stop ForcedOrganHarvesting Act (H.R. 8972, S.5016), intended to prevent the unethical and criminal harvestingorgans from minority groups and other victims.
 Organ harvesting is a barbaric, inhumane and egregious act of global significance as transnational human trafficking gangs, terrorist organizations, profiteers and even governmentsChina's Communist regime in particular  kill innocent people and sell their organs for profit, said Congressman Smith, sponsor and lead Republican for the House bill who has fought organ harvesting for more than 20 years, including chairing a June 2016 hearing on the cruel practice in China. A global problem requires a global response. Under our bill, organ harvesters and traffickers, who often prey on vulnerable populations like political prisoners or minorities, will be identified and exposed by the State Department with the goal of punishing perpetrators and promoting effective sanctions and restrictions on travel.The bill will help shed more light on these horrific activities, enable the naming of names of the vicious perpetrators and ultimately help put an end this gruesome human rights abuse.  

 For years, the Chinese Communist Party has continued to take advantage of prisoners, members of ethnic minority, and religious groups. Today, we are still witnessing them take further advantage of these groups through organ harvesting,"" said Congressman Suozzi, lead Democrat for the House bill. ""Members of the Chinese Communist Party must be held accountable for these unspeakable actions. Organ harvesting has no place in our world.""  

 There is growing evidence that the Chinese Communist Party has and continues to harvestorgans from prisoners and members of Chinese religious and minority groups. This bill will identify and punish CCP members involved in forcedorganharvesting. It's past time to hold Beijing accountable for these heinous acts,said Senator Cotton, the bill's sponsor in the Senate.  

 The bill also defines the trafficking in persons for purposes of the removal of organs'' as the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of a person for the purpose of removing one or more of such person's organs, by means of coercion; abduction; deception; fraud; abuse of power or a position of vulnerability; or transfer of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over a person.  

 The Stop ForcedOrganHarvesting Act:
 
    Authorizes the U.S. government to deny or revoke passports for illegalorganpurchasers.
    Mandates annual reporting on forcedorganharvesting in foreign countries. This State Department reporting would identify foreign officials and entities responsible for forcedorganharvesting.
    Mandates an annual report on U.S. institutions that trainorgantransplant surgeons affiliated with foreign entities involved in forcedorganharvesting.
    Prohibits the export oforgantransplant surgery devices to entities responsible for forcedorganharvesting.
    Sanctions foreign officials and entities that engage in or otherwise support forcedorganharvesting.
 
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409077,"<span class =""kicker"">Smith to co-chair Lantos Human Rights Commission Hearing Dec. 17:</span>'Conflict and Killings in Nigerias Middle Belt'",2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"OnThursday, December 17 from14 p.m., Congressman Chris Smith will co-chair a hearing of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission on the deteriorating human rights situation in Nigeria's Middle Belt, including its religious dimensions, and proposed responses.
The underlying causes of the conflict in Nigeria's Middle Belt are complex and varied. They include competition for access to land and other resources between pastoralists and farmers exacerbated by drought, desertification, and climate change. In a part of the country where farmers are mainly Christian and pastoralists are mainly Muslim and ethnic Fulani, deadly confrontations have sharpened ethnic, regional and religious polarization. Precise statistics are unavailable and fatality counts are contested, but one analysis estimated that farmer-pastoralist conflicts killed 2,000 Nigerians annually between 2011 and 2016. Some have described attacks by pastoralists as a persecution of Christians, amounting to an attempted or unfolding genocide. Some Muslim leaders, for their part, have described attacks on Fulani as part of an effort to purge Nigeria's Muslim community. The Nigerian state has failed to provide protection or ensure accountability for any of the victims. 
In its newly released annual Statistical Risk Assessment (SRA), the Holocaust Memorial Museum's Simon-Skjodt Center for the Prevention of Genocide calculated that Nigeria as a whole faces a 7.3% risk of experiencing a new mass killing by the end of 2021, the 6th highest in the world. In last year's SRA, Nigeria was ranked 17th with a 5% risk. For purposes of the report, a mass killing occurs when the deliberate actions of armed groups result in the deaths of at least 1,000 noncombatant civilians targeted as part of a specific group over a period of one year or less. The Center did not find evidence that groups perpetrating violence in north-central Nigeria are coordinating in a campaign against a particular group of civilians. Also this month, the State Department designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern for violations of religious freedom, opening the country up to possible economic sanctions. 
Witnesses will examine Nigeria's Middle Belt and pastoralist-farmer conflicts, current conflict dynamics, historical background, humanitarian aspects, internal displacement and impunity, and explore recommendations for U.S. and international responses.
Panel 1
 
    Sam Brownback, Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom
    Morse Tan, Ambassador at Large for Global Criminal Justice
    Robert Destro, Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor
 

Panel 2
 
    Nina Shea,Director,Hudson Institute Center for Religious Freedom
    Ann Buwalda,Executive Director,Jubilee Campaign USA
    H.E. William Avenya,Bishop of Gboko, Nigeria
    Jane Adolphe,Ave Maria School of Law
    Udo Jude Ilo,Nigeria Country Officer,Open Society Initiative for West Africa
    Mike Jobbins,Vice President, Global Affairs and Partnerships,Search for Common Ground
 
This is a hybrid hearing. Pursuant to H. Res. 965, Members of Congress and witnesses who wish to participate remotely may do so via Cisco WebEx. Members of the public and the media may view the hearing by live webcast on the Commission website. The hearing will also be available for viewing on the House Digital Channel service. For any questions, please contact Piero Tozzi at 202-225-3765 (for Rep. Smith) or Kimberly Stanton at 202-805-6308 (for Rep. McGovern).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-health-care-providers-new-jersey-will-receive-over-217,Pallone Announces Health Care Providers in New Jersey Will Receive Over $217 Million,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC  Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced that health care providers in New Jersey will receive $217,936,843 through the Provider Relief Fund established in the bipartisan Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act. Funding allocations are based on data each provider submitted to the Department of Health and Human Services that details financial losses and changes in operating expenses caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
As coronavirus cases go up in New Jersey and across the country, it's imperative that our health care providers have the resources they need to fight this pandemic, Pallone said. New Jersey has been one of the hardest hit states, and this funding will help provide our health care workers with the aid they need to keep New Jerseyans healthy. I will continue to ensure that hospitals and health care workers have what they need to fight this virus.
The announcement marks the beginning of the third phase of coronavirus relief funding to health care providers nationwide through the Provider Relief Fund. Payments will begin on December 16 and will continue through January 2021. As Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Pallone has advocated for equitable distribution of federal funding to providers in New Jersey. In June, Pallone announced that safety net hospitals received over $280 million. In May, Pallone announced that New Jersey hospitals received $1.7 billion in funding received by New Jersey health care providers from the Provider Relief Fund established in the (CARES) Act. Providers in New Jersey's Sixth Congressional District received over $177 million.
Additional details on the Provider Relief Fund distribution are available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-new-jersey-will-receive-over-5-million-vaccine-preparedness,Pallone Announces New Jersey will Receive Over $5 million for Vaccine Preparedness and COVID-19 Testing,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC  Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced that New Jersey will receive over $5 million from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to improve the state's vaccine preparedness and COVID-19 testing capacity. The state will receive $4,096,616 through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act for vaccine preparation and $1,806,500 through the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act for COVID-19 response activities.
The coronavirus pandemic demands a public health response that is proportional to the magnitude of this crisis. This funding will help us respond to the pandemic from multiple angles by ensuring that New Jersey is ready and able to distribute COVID-19 vaccines to the general public quickly while also continuing the testing and contact tracing, and other public health activities that are so critical to mitigating the spread of the virus, Pallone said. The distribution of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines will be one the largest vaccination campaigns in our country's history, which is why states must have the resources and support they need to quickly and equitably distribute the lifesaving vaccines. I will continue to fight for the resources we need to end this devastating pandemic.
As Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Pallone has advocated for a substantive plan to address the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic directly, including COVID-19 testing, contact tracing, and a national vaccine plan. In October, Pallone led a letter to the Trump Administration calling on the President to ensure that the COVID-19 vaccines are effectively and equitably distributed in the state. Last month, he also called on the Trump Administration to expand testing capacity in New Jersey in response to the increase in COVID-19 cases.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://payne.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-payne-jr-wants-biden-fund-and-finish-gateway-program,"Rep. Payne, Jr. Wants Biden to Fund and Finish Gateway Program",2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Media Contact: Patrick Wright  -- Patrick.Wright@mail.house.gov
Washington, D.C. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. wants President-Elect Joe Biden to make the Gateway Program, also known as the Gateway projects, a greater transportation priority in his administration. 
The Congressman wrote a letter to President-Elect Joe Biden to highlight the importance of the Hudson River Tunnel and Portal North Bridge to commuter traffic between New York and New Jersey as well as travel up and down the East Coast. The $30 billion Gateway Program would replace the bridge and add a new tunnel under the Hudson River. The program has lagged in the Trump Administration because it created bureaucratic roadblocks to keep the projects from receiving appropriate federal assistance. 
These two projects are critical to the nation's infrastructure, said Congressman Payne, Jr. The Trump Administration had four years to provide the support needed to get these projects completed and failed. I know President-Elect Biden understands the importance of modern infrastructure to a successful economy. That is why I am confident his administration will give the Gateway Program the federal funding and resources necessary to improve transportation throughout the Northeast Corridor.
Both projects are in desperate need of repair. For example, Rep. Payne, Jr. wrote that the existing Hudson River Tunnel is over 110 years old and is decaying rapidly. Any closure of the tubes in the tunnel for repair will result in catastrophic delays that ripple across our nationwide transportation network and harm economic activity up and down the Northeast Corridor. It is estimated that just one tube shutting down for a day has the potential to cost $100 million in lost economic activity nationwide. The letter was co-signed by nine members of the New Jersey House delegation and the two New Jersey Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker. The letter is added below.
####
December 16, 2020
President-Elect Joseph R. Biden, Jr.
1401 Constitution Avenue, NW    
Washington, D.C. 20230 

Dear President-Elect Biden:
We strongly urge you to prioritize the completion of the Hudson River Tunnel project and the Portal North Bridge project as the key components of the larger Gateway Program. These projects are the most critical infrastructure projects in the country and are the linchpin to our nation's rail network.
The existing Hudson River Tunnel is over 110 years old and is decaying rapidly. Any closure of the tubes in the tunnel for repair will result in catastrophic delays that ripple across our nationwide transportation network and harm economic activity up and down the Northeast Corridor. It is estimated that just one tube shutting down for a day has the potential to cost $100 million in lost economic activity nationwide. Sadly, the Trump administration has consistently ignored this looming crisis even though Congress has appropriated hundreds of millions of dollars for the project.
The Trump administration has repeatedly rated the Hudson River Tunnel project as Medium-Low in the Federal Transit Administration's Capital Investment Grants program, making it ineligible for federal funding. Additionally, the current Department of Transportation has had the project's Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) sitting on its desk for approval for the past three years. We strongly urge you to give the Hudson River Tunnel project the higher rating it deserves to make it eligible for federal funding and to begin the EIS approval process with no further delay.
When transportation ridership returns to pre-pandemic levels, passengers will need efficient and reliable forms of transportation along the northeast corridor. Now, more than ever, is the time to make substantial investments in the Gateway Program to boost the national economy, create jobs, and ensure that millions of intercity rail passengers and daily commuters have access to modern safe transportation infrastructure.
Again, we respectfully urge you to prioritize the completion of the Hudson River Tunnel and Portal North Bridge projects after you are sworn in. Thank you in advance for your consideration of our request, and we stand ready to work with you and your administration on these critical projects.
Sincerely,
 Donald M. Payne, Jr.
 Member of Congress

                      
Robert Menendez Cory A. Booker
 United States Senator United States Senator
                                         
Bonnie Watson Coleman Frank Pallone, Jr.
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

                                        
 Donald Norcross Tom Malinowski
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

                          
 Albio Sires  Bill Pascrell, Jr.
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

                                    
 Mikie Sherrill  Andy Kim 
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

                                        
 Josh Gottheimer
 Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sires-speaks-at-csis-event-on-partnerships-between-taiwan,Congressman Sires Speaks at CSIS Event on Partnerships Between Taiwan and Latin America,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.)  Yesterday, Congressman Albio Sires (D-NJ) participated in an online event with the Center for Strategic and International Studies titled A Partnership for Taiwan and Latin America: The Creative Economy. The following statement is a portion of his remarks:
As Chairman of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, I work every day to deepen the United States' engagement with Latin America and the Caribbean. I also serve as Co-Chair of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus because I am committed to strengthening U.S. relations with Taiwan and I believe that Taiwan has been a force for good in the world, including in Latin America and the Caribbean. For decades, Taiwan has worked to support democratic institutions, promote human rights, and advance economic opportunity in the Western Hemisphere.
Unfortunately, it has become clear in recent years that the Chinese Communist Party will not accept Taiwan's constructive relations with the Western Hemisphere. The Chinese government has sought to isolate Taiwan by aggressively targeting the countries which recognize Taiwan diplomatically. In the last few years, El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, and Panama have all decided to end their recognition of Taiwan. Government officials throughout the region have told me they feel pressured by China, but that it is difficult to resist China's offers for instant capital with few strings attached. Yet in some cases, Chinese investments in Latin America have served very narrow interests, and not those of the larger population.
In Ecuador, China provided over eighteen billion dollars in loans for a series of infrastructure projects. One project, the Coca Coda Sinclair Dam, was built by a Chinese state-owned company for the shocking price tag of over two billion dollars. The dam was built next to an active volcano and now has thousands of cracks and is routinely clogged with debris, preventing it from functioning properly. Ecuador's government has had to implement emergency measures to try to minimize the dam's erosion and prevent it from collapsing. By any objective assessment, this project was a failure. Yet Ecuador is sending approximately eighty percent of its oil exports to China to pay back the debt for this disastrous dam and other wasteful projects. As one former Ecuadorian minister told the New York Times, China took advantage of Ecuador.
It is the same formula we have seen the Chinese government use around the world. It is a strategy that exploits murky public procurement processes and takes advantage of short-term thinking on the part of local governments. I mention this example not to cast blame upon every government that has accepted Chinese financing. This is a simple question of political and economic incentives. The U.S. needs to do much more to open up opportunities for private sector-led development and investment in the region. We need to re-engage in multilateral institutions and we need to commit to doing the hard work of combatting corruption.
I look forward to working with the incoming Biden administration and the new Congress to deepen our ties with allies in Latin America and the Caribbean. U.S. support will be critical as the region seeks to recover from a devastating pandemic and begins distributing a COVID-19 vaccine. As we all know, Taiwan has provided a model for the world in its coronavirus response. With just seven deaths out of a population of nearly twenty-four million, not only has Taiwan saved lives, it has provided an example of what a transparent government response can look like. Taiwan has followed the science and deployed effective testing and contact tracing strategies. Looking ahead, it will be important to learn from Taiwan's success, as we seek to spur economic recovery and promote innovations in science and public health.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409073,"<span class =""kicker"">Asbury Park Press article</span>'Bill set to boost Joint Base passes by a wide margin'",2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"George WoolstonBurlington County Times USA TODAY NETWORK -
The $732 billion bill that sets spending and policy for the U.S. military has passed the U.S. House of Representatives Tuesday with bipartisan support.
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) received bipartisan support by passing 335-78, with a total of 140 Republicans and 195 Democrats backing the bill, the Associated Press reported.
South Jersey lawmakers consider several provisions in the bill big wins for Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
Among those wins include a 3% pay raise for all military personnel, slowing down of the retirement of KC-10 tankers jets over the next three years to ensure their replacement, the KC-46 tanker jets, arrive 100% ready to go at the end of 2021, and authorizing two constructions projects on the base.
We live in an uncertain world with persistent, credible threats to our nation and our democracy, so it is more important than ever that we support our men and women in uniform and ensure the readiness and modernization of our nation's armed forces while spending our valuable resources wisely, U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross said in a statement following the bill's passing.
Norcross, D-1 of Camden, serves as the chair of the tactical air and land forces (TAL) subcommittee in the House Armed Services Committee.
Norcross, along with fellow New Jersey lawmakers U.S. Rep. Andy Kim, D-3 of Mooreston, U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherill,D-11 of Montclair, and U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-4 of Hamilton, all worked to ensure the security of the Joint Base's future.
The bill authorizes $37 million total for construction projects on the base  $22 million for a Munitions Storage Area and $15 million for a National Guard Readiness Center. In addition to slowing down the KC-10 tankers and ensuring the new KC-46 tankers arrival, the bill also restricts the premature retirement of KC-135 Stratotankers operated by the New Jersey National Guard.
The missions of the active duty 305th Air Mobility Wing and its sister Air Force Reserve 514th Air Mobility Wing, as well as the NJ Air National Guard's 108 Air Refueling Wing, have never been more important, Smith said in a statement.
The Senate passed the measure by a 84-13 margin on Friday.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sires-statement-on-judicial-system-s-defense-of-democratic,Congressman Sires Statement on Judicial Systems Defense of Democratic Institutions,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.)  Today, Congressman Albio Sires (D-NJ) released the following statement regarding the judicial system's protection of democratic institutions:
Our nation was built on a system of checks and balances to prevent any individual, or branch, from felling the foundations of our democracy in its own self-interest. In the weeks since the election, the institution of a government of the people, by the people, and for the people has been challenged by the very people who are supposed to protect our democratic institutions. The President, his staff, over 15 attorneys general, and 126 of my Republican colleagues actively put their own interests ahead of our nation's when they pursued a lawsuit to throw out votes from four states. The Supreme Court, along with numerous other courts, has stood firm and acted as a check on a man who uses conspiracy theories and baseless claims in an attempt to cling to power. Without the checks of our judicial system, our government would look very similar to authoritarian regimes that refuse to acknowledge the results of free and fair elections.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sires-wenstrup-bipartisan-group-of-lawmakers-introduce-legislation-to,"Sires, Wenstrup, Bipartisan Group of Lawmakers Introduce Legislation to Raise Public Awareness of COVID-19 Vaccine",2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.)  Today, Representatives Albio Sires (D-NJ), Brad Wenstrup, D.P.M. (R-OH), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Ron Kind (D-WI), John Joyce (R-PA), Scott Peters (D-CA), and Neal Dunn (R-FL) introduced bipartisan legislation, authorizing a public advocacy campaign to promote COVID-19 vaccine participation and provide science-backed information. The bill provides necessary funds for the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to provide grants to entities to launch public awareness campaigns no less than 30 days after a vaccine is authorized.
The swift development of a COVID-19 vaccine is a serious progression on our route to curbing the virus and getting back to our normal routines. Now that the vaccine is being administered, it is crucial that we encourage as many Americans as possible to receive one, said Rep. Sires. We must ensure that Americans have science-based, factual information on the safety and efficacy of the vaccine. This bipartisan legislation will go a long way in funding states public awareness campaigns so that Americans have the information they need to receive the vaccine with confidence.
Operation Warp Speed has produced a safe and effective vaccine in record time. A vaccine, however, will only lead us out of this pandemic and allow us to restore our way of life if enough Americans are willing to receive it, said Representative Brad Wenstrup D.P.M. It is more important than ever that we provide science-based, factual information about COVID-19 vaccines to the American people. I believe providing accurate information about vaccines will help alleviate concerns and empower Americansto make sound medical decisions.
Earning the public's trust is key to putting an end to this pandemic, which is why it's so important that we come together in a bipartisan way to make sure every American has the facts about the COVID-19 vaccines, said Congressman AndyKim. This bill would make sure that accurate information reaches the American people so that they can take the vaccine with confidence. I hope my colleagues from both sides of the aisle join in passing this critical effort.
A COVID-19 vaccine will only be effective in defeating this virus if people have confidence in its safety and efficacy, said Representative Roger Marshall, M.D.  America is home to world-class scientists and a gold-standard regulatory agency that oversees the drug approval process. As a physician, I understand people's concerns over this unprecedented process, but from the start, pharmaceutical scientists have been in constant contact with officials at the Food and Drug Administration, ensuring multiple layers of safety and oversight. I am proud to co-lead legislation that provides funding for science-based information for our families and communities. I remain confident that we will defeat this virus and return to life as normal.
Today is a turning point in the COVID-19 pandemic as millions of vaccines are shipped across the country and arrive to Wisconsin and we begin to inoculate our health care workers and most vulnerable to the virus. But for these vaccines to ultimately bring an end to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is critical that Americans are willing to receive them, said Representative Ron Kind. I am proud to support this bipartisan bill to provide resources to trusted local leaders across the country to raise awareness and share factual, evidence-based information about COVID-19 vaccines with the communities they serve.
As our nation combats the COVID-19 pandemic, America's scientists, researchers, and health care heroes have achieved remarkable progress in developing a safe and effective vaccine  the key to restoring our communities, rebuilding our economy, and saving lives, said Representative John Joyce, M.D. Like many Americans, I am planning to take the vaccine as soon as I am eligible. It is imperative that the American people have confidence in the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine. To gain their trust, we must cut through misinformation and ensure that Americans have the facts about this vaccine and its lifesaving potential.
Today's distribution of the first COVID-19 vaccines is a national triumph. It speaks to the skill of our public and private scientists, whose efforts to develop, certify and deploy a vaccine will soon help our country get closer to normal and save lives, said Representative Scott Peters. We must do everything we can to optimize and uplift their work. This legislation will educate and boost awareness and trust in communities disproportionately hurt by this deadly virus.
The bill is a companion to legislationintroduced in the Senate by Senators Rob Portman (R-OH), Ben Cardin (D-MD), John Thune (R-SD), and Bob Menendez (D-NJ).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-announces-south-jersey-winners-2020-congressional-app-challenge,Norcross Announces South Jersey Winners of 2020 Congressional App Challenge,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"CHERRY HILL, NJ  Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced that three Cherry Hill High School East students have won the 2020 Congressional App Challenge for New Jersey's First Congressional District.
Triplets Armaan, Karina and Gia Gupta created their app Apollo to connect young entrepreneurs on a digital platform. Their app allows novice entrepreneurs to gain support and exchange advice from their peers about venture ideas. The app also has a curriculum that outlines common entrepreneurial strategies. To view the Gupta's YouTube video explaining their app, click here.
I congratulate Armaan, Karina and Gia on their achievement in creating a digital marketplace for young entrepreneurs, said Congressman Norcross. It's inspiring to see the next generation create such an innovative approach to connecting novice business owners. Focusing on and developing these skills at such a young age will help set the foundation for a strong future in the business venture field. I am confident these three students will be invaluable members of our community in the years to come.
For us, it was important to develop the app, Apollo, because there are no platforms to foster kids' passion for entrepreneurship, said Armaan, Karina and Gia Gupta. Since the future generations are the future of the world, we felt that there must be a place where kids can be empowered, supported and taught the skills they need like confidence and networking which aren't taught in school. The purpose of the app is to do just this. The app Apollo is a platform where kids can create business ventures and connect with their fellow peers to develop their ideas and gain an entrepreneurial mindset which is essential for the future. Overall, winning the Congressional App Challenge this year means so much because we are able to share our app idea and hopefully stress the importance of entrepreneurship and youth empowerment. We are so excited for what the future holds and thank you again for selecting us as the Congressional App Challenge winner!
The annual Congressional App Challenge is a nation-wide effort to spur interest in coding, STEM and computer-science education among middle- and high-school students.
Winning apps from congressional districts across the country are eligible for display in the U.S. Capitol and featured on the House of Representatives' website atHouse.gov. The #HouseOfCode summit will be held virtually this spring due to COVID-19.
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Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/washington-reviews/washington-review-december-14-2020,"Washington Review, December 14, 2020",2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"Last week, the House voted on the Conference Report to accompany the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) funding bill and a crucial stopgap funding bill to help avert a government shutdown while a larger package is negotiated. On Wednesday, I was honored to receive the In Defense of Christian's 2020 Congressional Champion Award. I cosponsored legislation to protect providers from Medicare cuts in the midst of the pandemic, help those people facing eviction, support children with disabilities, and supporting human rights across the globe. I also signed onto letters to extend Federal unemployment benefits, include cash relief payments in the next relief bill, urge the incoming Biden Administration to complete the Gateway project, and to urge the incoming Biden Administration to offer Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) status to children that have been separated from their families.
Legislation
Last Tuesday, the House voted in favor of the Conference Report to H.R. 6395, the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021, introduced by Rep. Adam Smith (D-WA), by a vote of 335-78. I voted in favor of this legislation, which takes many steps and provides numerous amounts of funding to improve the lives of our courageous servicemembers. The conference report includes many provisions that House Democrats, along with my colleagues and I in the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, fought hard to incorporate, including a 3% increase in pay for our servicemembers, ensuring all federal employees are granted access to paid parental leave, and requiring the Department of Defense to remove all names and symbols honoring the Confederacy or those who served voluntarily with the Confederacy from their assets. Further, the conference report included funding and provisions to establish a chief diversity officer at the Department of Defense to promote and ensure diversity inclusion in all branches of the military, create a task force to better deal with incidents of sexual assault in the military, authorize child care for members of the military and Department of Defense, and authorize millions more in funding to help the military's response to COVID-19. Our brave men and women in uniform deserve these benefits, and I am confident the provisions included in this conference report will help to improve the lives of our servicemembers while honoring our country's values.
Last Wednesday, the House passed a crucial stopgap funding bill to keep the Government funded through December 18th and avert a government shutdown. While short-term, stopgap bills are not ideal, it would be worse to let our government enter into a reckless shutdown. The continuing resolution passed by the House will keep our government open as we continue working to reach a full funding deal and more meaningful coronavirus relief for the country. House Democrats and I will continue to negotiate in good-faith to bring much-needed relief for the American people, but the Senate and White House must join us in this effort.
IDC Award
Last Wednesday, I was honored to receive an the Congressional Champion Award from the In Defense of Christian's organization. I received the award this year for my efforts advocating for persecuted Christians in the Middle East and Africa. Throughout the 116th Congress I cosponsored and voted in favor of legislation recognizing the Armenian Genocide, sanctioning Turkey for invading Syria, and supporting Coptic Christians. Much of the 8th District is made up of a diverse group of people from different backgrounds and countries, many of whom, like myself, have fled violence in order to be here. In this respect, and as a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, it is incumbent upon me to represent my district in promoting human rights and condemning hate and violence across the globe. As we enter the 117th Congress I look forward to maintaining my commitment to fight against persecution, hate, and human rights violations around the world.
Cosponsored Legislation
Our health care providers are on the front lines in the fight against COVID-19, that is why I cosponsored H.R. 8702, the Holding Providers Harmless from Medicare Cuts During COVID-19 Act of 2020, introduced by Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA). In 2021 the Medicare physician fee schedule, used to reimburse providers for services they provide under Medicare, is set to increase for Emergency Management (E/M) services and decrease for many other providers. Certain providers will be facing a decrease in reimbursement rates at a time when many providers are either struggling financially or experiencing obstacles due to COVID-19. The midst of a pandemic is not the time to cut funds to any of our medical providers. This legislation would provide funds to providers who are facing cuts in 2021 which would fund them at 2020 levels. It is imperative we give doctors and providers the funds they need so that they can continue offering care for those in need during this current public health emergency.
I cosponsored H.R. 7847, the Housing Emergency Lifeline Program Act, introduced by Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) and Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT). This important legislation takes steps to protect those facing eviction during the pandemic by authorizing $10 billion in Emergency Solution Grants (ESG) to fund legal counsel for those facing or at risk of eviction. Furthermore, this bill directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to establish a database of eviction information gathered from all State and local entities that receive covered housing assistance, restricts credit reporting of evictions in cases where the landlord won in a final judgement or the tenant was not a minor, and requires covered landlords to inform their tenants of their rights and responsibilities. Since before the COVID-19 pandemic, and during, I have long fought as an advocate to protect homeowners, tenants, and increase affordable housing. The middle of a pandemic is not the time to be evicting people; instead, we should ensure that everyone has the means to stay in their home.
I also cosponsored H.R. 8523, the Supporting Children with Disabilities During COVID-19 Act, introduced by Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA). This legislation would increase funding for children with disabilities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic by appropriating $11 billion for state grants under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Additionally, this legislation would provide $1.2 billion for early childhood education programs, $55 million under the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, and requires recipients of funds to report to Congress on how the money is spent and how it benefits children with disabilities. The COVID-19 pandemic has been testing for everyone but can be especially stressful for children with disabilities as they form new routines and are removed from many of the learning resources they have at school. This funding will go a long way in ensuring children with disabilities have the support they need during the remainder of this pandemic.
On December 10, 2020, we celebrated the 72nd anniversary of the United Nation's adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the first comprehensive agreement among countries as to the specific rights and freedoms of all human beings. In light of this, I cosponsored a resolution introduced by Rep. Alan Lowenthal (D-CA) and Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI) supporting human rights. The resolution expresses support for global human rights, human rights defenders around the world, and calls for the United States to observe Human Rights Day and continue a commitment to upholding freedom, democracy, and human rights around the globe.
Letters
Last Thursday, I joined over 45 of my colleagues in a letter led by Rep. Daniel Kildee (D-MI), addressed to the President urging him to include an extension of federal unemployment benefits. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act both included provisions which had federal unemployment assistance for those individuals who had lost their job as an impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, throughout the pandemic millions have lost unemployment, and there are currently still 10 million Americans unemployed, 6.7% of the workforce, far higher than the 3.6% at January 2020. As these individuals continue to struggle it is imperative we extend this federal aid so that they can continue to be secure until this pandemic is over. No one chose to lose their job because of a pandemic, but we can, and must, take steps to mitigate the struggle that many individuals and families are facing.
I also joined colleagues in a letter led by Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) addressed to House and Senate leadership urging them to include relief checks in the next COVID-19 relief package. As the end of the 116th Congress grows closer, it is of the utmost importance that we are able to deliver a robust stimulus for the hard-working American people. One of the provisions that must be included in any future relief bill is the inclusion of more stimulus checks. The first economic impact payment of $1,200 was worthwhile, but not nearly enough to support those who continue to struggle due to COVID-19. The letter outlines the importance that another round of economic impact payments could mean to the American people and asks leadership to definitively include this provision in any future deal.
I joined my colleagues in the New Jersey delegation, led by Rep. Donald Payne (D-NJ), in sending a letter to President-elect Biden urging his incoming Administration to prioritize the completion of the Gateway Project. Specifically, the letter calls for the completion of the Hudson River Tunnel project and the Portal North Bridge Project. I have long been fighting to get the appropriate funds and the completion of these projects, and I am glad to see the project is finally ready to move forward. I am confident that with the incoming Biden Administration, we will be able to complete these projects and revitalize the Gateway region and Northeast Corridor, which is of crucial importance to New Jersey, the Northeast, and the entire country's economy.
I signed onto a letter led by Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS) and Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) addressed to President-elect Biden's transition urging his incoming Administration to provide Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) status to children that were separated form their families. DED is an immigration benefit that allows individuals from certain designated countries facing political or civic conflict or natural disaster to stay in the United States. It is unacceptable that these children would have been separated from their families in the first place. Because of this unfortunate reality, we must do all we can to protect these children and give them the tools to succeed.
Open Enrollment
On November 1, 2020, Open Enrollment for health care plans began in New Jersey. This year, instead of using the federal marketplace, New Jersey will switch to their own state-run marketplace. In order to browse health care plans you can visit: www.nj.gov/getcoverednj. Here you will be able to compare available plans, review financial assistance options, and select a plan that is best for you. This new marketplace is easy to use and helps to clearly identify plans that will be most beneficial to you. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial we leave no one behind and that everyone has access to affordable health care. If you need health care, be sure to visit the site. Open enrollment is open from November 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021.
With cases of COVID-19 continuing to rise across the country, and in New Jersey, it is imperative we remain vigilant and safe. Please continue to wear a mask in public and practice social distancing when possible. I wish everyone in the 8th District a happy and healthy Thanksgiving. Please exercise caution if meeting with loved ones and take necessary measures to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and our community. Working together, we can help slow the spread of this virus. Please know that I will continue working to get the 8th District the resources it needs. If you have questions or need assistance please call my Washington, D.C. office at (202)225-7919 and follow instructions to be connected to my staff or send an email to NJ8inquiries@mail.house.gov. Together we can get through this.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409070,"<span class =""kicker"">Smith Op-Ed in Washington Times</span>'Reflecting on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights'",2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dec. 10, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), rightfully heralded as a human rights landmark. To understand how the UDHR came about and what made it necessary, however, we need to first recall what preceded it.
The UDHR was born of the horrors of the Holocaust and World War II, as well as the imperfect attempt to achieve some sort of justice at the Nuremberg and Tokyo War Crimes trials. Recall, the defendants at Nuremberg and Tokyo had broken no positive laws  indeed, they controlled the power of the state, which dictated the laws.
To dispense a modicum of justice to right the obvious injustice that had been done to millions of victims, Robert Jackson  a prosecutor at Nuremberg who took a leave of absence from his duties as a sitting associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court  referenced the need to apply a natural law that binds each man to refrain from acts so inherently wrong and injurious to others that he must know that they will be treated as criminal.  


Illustration on the U.N. Human Rights Council by Linas Garsys/The Washington Times
  
It is this notion of a law above whatever the positive law may be at a particular moment in time which likewise animates the UDHR. There are some rights which are so fundamental, that the state may never take them away, regardless of the power it may wield at any moment.
We see this notion expressed, for example, in Article 26 of the UDHR, which states that Parents have a prior right to choose the kind of education that shall be given to their children. This is a right that is prior to the state  in other words, it is grounded in nature, and cannot be taken away by the state.
These are the rights which our Declaration of Independence referred to as unalienable, having been endowed upon us by our Creator. Foremost among these rights is of course the right to life, without which no other rights are possible.
This notion of Natural Law is certainly compatible with a Judeo-Christian tradition, one that directly inspired framers of the UDHR such as the Catholic Jacques Maritain, the Orthodox Charles Malik or the Jewish Rene Cassin.
But it is deeper and broader than that. It is not just Jeremiah and St. Paul who spoke about a law written in the heart, but Cicero and Confucius as well.
As Emilie Kao, director of the Richard and Helen DeVos Center for Religion &amp; Civil Society at the Heritage Foundation testified before Congress at a hearing Dec. 9, the UDHR drew from a diverse array of sources, including Confucianism, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism and Christianity. Indeed, along with Malik, Maritain and Cassin, included among its drafters was Peng-chun Chang, who drew from the Chinese philosophical tradition and contributed a Confucian Natural Law perspective  the tao that is written in the heart.
Thus, I categorically reject any notion that when we hold the government of the People's Republic of China to account for its cruelty, abuses and violations of human rights norms, we are seeking to impose Western standards upon it.
Far from it  it is a universal norm, and one very much consonant with a Chinese notion of a tao, or a law, which is above any positive law arbitrarily imposed by the state. The actions of Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party must be judged according to this law, and their mandate to govern  the Mandate of Heaven which the Confucians appealed to  depends on whether their actions conform with this norm. If they fall short, they are to be held to account.
Thus, when I speak of the barbarism of harvesting organs from Falun Gong practitioners or the cruelty of forced abortion and it deleterious impact on both women and children, or the incarceration of millions of Muslim Uighurs in concentration camps, or mass jailing of Hong Kong democracy activists including the brave Joshua Wong  unjustly jailed for the fourth time  or Xi Jinping's megalomaniacal efforts to rewrite the Bible to follow the dictates of the Communist Party, I and others are only seeking to hold the Chinese dictatorship to the noblest standards from within the Chinese tradition.
Finally, as we contemplate that profound document that is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, I ask that we also reflect on what is the source of the rights of which we speak. Rights emphatically do not come from the state, for, as we saw in the horrors of World War II and the Holocaust or the Armenian genocide, the state which is the sole grantor of rights can take them away, and in so doing, commit grave offenses against human dignity.
Rather, the source must be transcendent, objective, immutable.
 Chris Smith is a Republican U.S. representative from New Jersey
  
This story was published in the Dec. 11, 2020 print edition of the Washington Times, and can be found at:",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409071,"Rep. Chris Smith voices serious concern over South Koreas growing disregard of fundamental civil liberties, acquiescence to Communist North",2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Responding to reports that South Korea's parliament was on the verge of passing legislation that would criminalize the sending of leaflets, Bibles and money across the border to the Communist North, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), co-chair of the bipartisan Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, made the following statement.
 I am troubled that legislators in an ostensibly vibrant democracy would contemplate criminalizing conduct aimed at promoting democracy and providing spiritual and humanitarian succor to people suffering under one of the cruelest communist dictatorships in the world. Yet a legislative majority of Korea's Democratic Party members appear poised to do so, in apparent violation of South Korea's constitution and the nation's obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.(ICCPR).
 Smith further explained, Article 19 of the ICCPR provides that Everyone shall have the right to freedom of expression; this right shall include freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, in writing or in print, in the form of art, or through any other media of his choice.' Why then are parliamentary allies of President Moon Jae-in disregarding their obligations to protect fundamental civil and political rights? 
 The people of North Korea are suffering under a brutal regime. Humanitarian and religious non-governmental organizations launch balloons containing Bibles, videos and information denied people living in the North, giving them hope and objective information instead of despair and communist propaganda. Why in the world would legislators in the free South want to not only stop that, but also put people in jail for simply sharing information? asked Smith, who has held numerous human rights hearings focused on North Korea.  

 Further, I have serious concerns over the trajectory in South Korea under President Moon Jae-in. We have seen the government on the local and national level use the response to COVID as a pretext to curtail religious worship and free speech, directed at critics of the President. We see undue acquiescence not only to the communist Democratic People's Republic of Koreaas evidenced by this inane legislation criminalizing humanitarian outreach to North Koreabut also a diplomatic tilt towards communist China.
 While I would hope that members of Korea's Democratic Party would see how damaging this proposed legislation is to democratic principles and human rights, and thus reverse course, in the event that they pass such a law, I call upon our State Department to critically reevaluate the Republic of Korea's commitment to democratic values in its annual human rights report, as well as in its report on international religious freedom. It may very well be that we will see South Korea put on a watch list, which would be a very sad development indeed.
 Smith further declared that if the legislation passed, he intended to convene a hearing to examine the Korean government's failure to uphold civil and political rights.
 No government is above scrutiny, not even that of a long-time ally, Smith said. Given the great accomplishments of the people of South Korea, I truly hope this legislative proposal is an aberration, and that cooler heads will realize that this bill is not just ill-conceived, but frightening in its implications for democracy and liberty.
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https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-applauds-major-disaster-declaration-11-counties-new-jersey-hit-hard,Pallone Applauds Major Disaster Declaration for 11 Counties in New Jersey Hit Hard by Tropical Storm Isaias,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Long Branch, NJ  Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) applauded the Major Disaster Declaration issued to New Jersey today for the damage inflicted on New Jersey by Tropical Storm Isaias. In October, Pallone sent a congressional letter with U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker to President Trump supporting Governor Phil Murphy's request for a Major Disaster Declaration. The declaration makes the state eligible for more federal resources as areas recover from damage caused by the storm that battered New Jersey in August. The declaration covers 11 counties: Atlantic, Bergen, Burlington, Cape May, Cumberland, Essex, Gloucester, Monmouth, Morris, Salem, and Sussex.
Tropical Storm Isaias caused significant damage to homes and businesses and left thousands of my constituents struggling with prolonged power outages. The coronavirus pandemic has strained state and local resources, making the federal funding that this declaration provides even more important, Congressman Pallone said. I'm thankful for Governor Murphy and the entire New Jersey Congressional delegation for their efforts to get New Jersey the federal support it needs.
This is much needed federal relief for New Jersey and the 11 counties that were hit hard by Tropical Storm Isaias. From the torrential downpours to the high winds, communities, already strapped for resourceswere burdened with the high cost of debris removal and widespread power outages, Senator Menendez said. This will reimburse the communities that faced storm damage and allow them to prepare for future storms.
In the letter, the lawmakers noted that the statewide damage assessment was more than double the threshold set for fiscal year 2020, straining already strapped state and local resources, and that the majority of the costs relate to debris removal.
In August, Pallone led the entire New Jersey delegation in the House of Representatives in calling on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to extend its deadline for the State of New Jersey to finalize its Preliminary Damage Assessment in the wake of Tropical Storm Isaias. He also demanded answers from JCP&amp;L's company executives on its failure to adequately prepare for and respond to major storms and called on the company to reimburse customers for food and medications lost as a result of the storm's prolonged power outages.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409069,"<span class=""kicker"">News12 NJ story; Smith backs key bill for experimental drugs</span>'New Jersey man fights for access to experimental ALS drug'",2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"News12 NJ story; Smith backs key bill for experimental drugs'New Jersey man fights for access to experimental ALS drug' 
   
    
       
      
  
    
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      By News12 Staff - With the world potentially days away from having a COVID-19 vaccine, research continues to help treat other life-threatening diseases like Lou Gehrig's disease.
Forked River resident Josh Smith, 31, was an athlete and football coach who ran a construction business with his father. But his world was turned upside-down when he was diagnosed with ALS in March of 2019.
When I first got diagnosed, I mean honestly, I felt like I died on that dayYou lose every dream that you had. It's kind of out the window, Smith says.
With an average lifespan of two to five years after diagnosis, Smith says that he put his dreams aside to fight the illness. His doctors suggested that he search for an experimental treatment since he was young and still strong.  

  
That experimental treatment is a drug known as NurOwn  a phase three treatment. Smith's family says that the treatment appeared to slow the progression of the disease. However, the trial treatment is only temporary. He no longer has access to the drug.  

  
I put my body through this for the sake of data. Now give me the drug for the sake of me, now, Smith says.  

Smith and other ALS patient advocates are pushing for House Bill 8662, which would increase the opportunity for patients to access investigational therapies and $100 million each dedicated to research and development to find a treatment and cure. District 4 U.S Rep. Christopher Smith says he co-sponsored the bill last week.  

  
""The sooner we get that and other kinds of therapeutics out to people  and we need to fast-track it like we're doing with COVID, like the vaccine which is on a fast track. It can be done. This bill will help facilitate all of that, Rep. Smith says.
Meanwhile, Josh Smith says that he will keep fighting.  

  
My dad told me when I was a kid just never give up. You got to be in the fight to win the fight, so here I am in the fight, he says.  



    
        
            
        
    

  
Bill 8662 is known as the Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act. It was introduced to the House on Oct. 23 and was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. But so far, the committee has not taken any action to release the bill for a vote.PHOTO GRAPHIC:At left, Josh Smith with his parents on the right; At right, Rep. Smith (no relation). This story was aired on Dec. 7-8 and was published online at:
https://newjersey.news12.com/new-jersey-man-fights-for-access-to-experimental-als-drug
    
  
  
  
    
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https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-completion-beach-replenishment-projects-long-branch-monmouth,"Pallone Announces Completion of Beach Replenishment Projects in Long Branch, Monmouth Beach, Sea Bright",2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Long Branch, NJ  Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced the completion of beach replenishment projects in Sea Bright, Monmouth Beach, and Long Branch. A total of 2.8 million cubic yards of sand was placed on beaches along the three towns. Pallone announced the beginning of these projects in September. The work began on October 1 and was completed on November 26. These projects complement the beach replenishment projects Pallone announced last year and were completed last summer.
I'm proud to announce that we have just completed another beach replenishment project. These projects will go a long way to ensuring our coastline remains resilient and enjoyable for years to come, Congressman Pallone said. I would like to thank the Army Corps of Engineers for their hard work and dedication to keeping our Jersey Shore coastal communities safe and enjoyable for residents and tourists alike.
Pallone has been a longtime advocate for beach replenishment along the Jersey Shore and has worked closely with the Army Corps and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to develop a plan to allow for timely distribution of sand along the three towns. Sand was placed in Sea Bright from Tradewinds Lane north to Center Street. In Long Branch, sand was placed from South Broadway to Joline, just south of Seven Presidents Park. In Monmouth Beach, sand was placed from Cottage Road and extended slightly into Sea Bright to Garden Way.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409068,"<span class =""kicker"">Patch news article</span>'Rep. Smith's Outdoor Therapy For Veterans Bill Signed Into Law'",2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation authored by this area's Congressman, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), to help veterans heal through outdoor recreational therapy, has now been signed into law by President Trump.


Smith's bipartisanAccelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act, which was endorsed by more than 120 veteran service organizations, outdoor recreation groups and conservation organizations, will provide increased access to federal lands for the purposes of veterans' medical recovery therapy.
Smith's bill  cosponsored by 136 Republican and Democratic lawmakers  was included in a package of veterans' legislation, The Veterans' COMPACT Act (H.R. 8247), which passed unanimously in the House of Representatives in September and was passed unanimously by the Senate in late November.



President Trump signed the legislation over the past weekend.  




Smith recounted how one combat wounded veteran who served in Iraq was suffering severe depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder responded to outdoor therapy. He had made three visits to the VA psychiatric wards and a substance abuse rehab. But it was a backpacking trip led by the Sierra Club that changed his perspective.

Smith quoted the vet's own words: ""When the depression, anxiety and everything else that comes with PTSD creeps back into my life, I know just what to do: Strap on a pack and get outside.""

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, between 11 and 20 percent of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, 12 percent of those who served in Desert Storm have PTSD in a given year, and 30 percent of those who served in Vietnam, will have had PTSD in their lifetime.



    
        
            Research has shown that outdoor recreation can be an effective form of treatment, rehabilitation and 
            healing for veterans, said Congressman Chris Smith.(Shutterstock)
        
    

""Research has shown that outdoor recreation can be an effective form of treatment, rehabilitation and healing for veterans,"" said Congressman Smith, who has twice served as chair of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee. ""While many nonprofit organizations, veteran service organizations and private companies have used the outdoors to help heroes heal, providing greater coordination among key federal agencies will open new opportunities for veterans on public lands and other outdoor spaces.""

The new law will require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an interagency task force on the use of public lands to provide medical treatment and therapy to veterans through outdoor recreation. After undertaking a comprehensive analysis, the task force will submit recommendations to Congress, within one year, on how to eliminate barriers and provide more public outdoor space for use by American veterans.This article was published on Dec. 9, 2020 and can be found online at:
https://patch.com/new-jersey/middletown-nj/rep-smith-s-outdoor-therapy-veterans-bill-signed-law",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://payne.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-payne-jr-s-colorectal-cancer-prevention-bill-passes-house,"Rep. Payne, Jr.s Colorectal Cancer Prevention Bill Passes House",2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Media Contact: Patrick Wright  -- Patrick.Wright@mail.house.gov
Washington, D.C. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr.'s bill to decrease colorectal cancer deaths nationwide passed the House of Representatives today. 
The bill, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act (H.R. 1570), would allow Medicare to cover colorectal cancer screenings and surgeries to remove cancerous growths during the screenings. Currently, Medicare covers the screenings only and patients must pay for any growth removals after the fact. Colorectal cancer is second only to lung cancer in U.S. cancer deaths every year. Yet, the survival rate from colorectal cancer is one of the highest for all forms of cancer if it is caught early.
I have wanted to pass this bill since I lost my father, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Sr., to the deadly disease in 2012, said Congressman Payne, Jr. My bill would give doctors more freedom to treat and remove cancerous growths when they find them and improve the health and safety of millions of Americans at risk for colorectal cancer. I want to thank Chairman Frank Pallone for helping me get this bill to the House floor and my House colleagues for passing it today.
If the bill becomes law, it could increase the number of Americans who get screened for the disease and save thousands of lives every year. Currently, colorectal cancer causes more than 50,000 deaths in the United States every year. It is even more deadly for minorities. African Americans are 20 percent more likely to get colorectal cancer and 40 percent more likely to die from it compared to other groups. In addition, colorectal cancer rates have doubled for Americans under 50 years old in the last 30 years.

# # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sires-votes-in-favor-of-ndaa-conference-report,Congressman Sires Votes in Favor of NDAA Conference Report,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.)  Last night, Congressman Albio Sires (D-NJ) voted in favor of the Conference Report to H.R. 6395, the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021. The report passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 335-78.
This conference report, which was passed with a strong, veto-proof, bipartisan majority in the House will authorize billions in funds that will work to strengthen our security, advance the United States' leadership across the globe, and honor our nation's values, said Rep. Sires. I am also pleased that it included many measures that Democrats, along with my colleagues and I in the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, have been fighting for. I am proud to vote in favor of this legislation, which takes many steps and provides numerous amounts of funding to improve the lives of our courageous servicemembers.
Among the many provisions in this conference report are:
 Requiring the Department of Defense to remove all names and symbols honoring the Confederacy or those who served voluntarily with the Confederacy from their assets.
	Ensuring all federal employees are granted access to paid parental leave, including civilians working in the Federal Aviation Administration and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
	Providing a 3% increase in pay for our servicemembers.
	Establishing a chief diversity officer at the Department of Defense to promote and ensure diversity inclusion in all branches of our military.
	Creating a task force to study and make recommendations on incidents of sexual assault in the military and requiring a change of policy at the Department of Defense to ensure all servicemembers are comfortable reporting instances of sexual misconduct.
	Authorizing child care for members of the military and Department of Defense.
	Millions of dollars in funding to help the military continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
	Extending paid parental leave to all federal employees.
	Requiring the Department of Defense to submit a report on their greenhouse gas emissions and create an alternative fuel vehicle pilot program that will spearhead the military's transition to sustainable vehicles.
	Expressing the sense of Congress strongly reaffirming our commitment to our NATO allies and our dedication to work with them on all issues, including COVID-19.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/la-enmienda-de-reps-sires-y-rooney-para-reducir-los-delitos-violentos-en,La enmienda de Reps. Sires y Rooney para reducir los delitos violentos en Mxico es aprobada en la Cmara de Representantes,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.)  Hoy, los representantes Albio Sires (D-NJ) y Francis Rooney (R-FL), presidente y miembro de alto rango, respectivamente, del Subcomit del Hemisferio Occidental, la Seguridad Civil y el Comercio, emitieron el siguiente comunicado despus de que una enmienda que ellos redactaron requiriendo un informe al Congreso sobre la asistencia actual y futura a las fuerzas de seguridad mexicanas fuera incluida en la declaracin explicativa conjunta del H.R.6395, la Ley de Autorizacin de Defensa Nacional William M. (Mac) Thornberry para el ao fiscal 2021:
En un momento en que las tasas de homicidio en Mxico han alcanzado niveles rcord, debemos examinar crticamente nuestra cooperacin con las autoridades mexicanas para garantizar que la asistencia de seguridad de Estados Unidos logre resultados verdaderos. Creemos que Mxico y Estados Unidos tienen la responsabilidad compartida de reducir los delitos violentos y mejorar la calidad de vida de quienes viven en ambos lados de nuestra frontera. Por esta razn, durante mucho tiempo hemos abogado por una slida asistencia de los Estados Unidos para ayudar a Mxico a fortalecer sus instituciones democrticas, combatir la corrupcin, defender los derechos humanos y mejorar la seguridad. Pero tambin creemos que debemos reevaluar constantemente nuestra estrategia de asistencia y su alineacin con las prioridades del gobierno mexicano para identificar formas de mejorar nuestro enfoque. Esta disposicin nos ayudar a hacer precisamente eso.
El lenguaje completo que requiere el informe, de la declaracin explicativa conjunta de la NDAA de 2021, se encuentra a continuacin:
The conferees direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of State, not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, to jointly submit to the congressional defense committees, the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate, and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives a comprehensive assessment of ongoing support and a strategy for future cooperation between the United States Government and the Mexican security forces, including the Mexican National Guard, Federal, State, and municipal law enforcement. The report should include, at a minimum, the following:
 (1) A strategy and timeline for assistance to Mexican security forces, including the amounts of assistance, any defense articles, and training to be provided to each of the Mexican security forces;
 (2) A description of the transfer of U.S.-supported equipment, if any, from the Federal Police and Armed Forces to the National Guard;
 (3) Department of Defense and Department of State plans for all U.S. training for Mexican security forces, including training in human rights, proper use of force, de-escalation, investigation and evidence-gathering, community relations, and anti-corruption; and
 (4) An assessment of the National Guard's adherence to human rights standards to date, including its progress toward the adoption of measures to ensure accountability for human rights violations and the development of a human rights training curriculum. The report may be submitted in classified form with an unclassified summary.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sires-rooney-provision-to-reduce-violent-crime-in-mexico-passes-the,Sires-Rooney Provision to Reduce Violent Crime in Mexico Passes the House of Representatives,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.)  Today, Congressman Albio Sires (D-NJ) and Congressman Francis Rooney (R-FL), Chairman and Ranking Member respectively of the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, Civilian Security, and Trade, released the following statement after a provision they authored requiring a report to Congress about current and future assistance to Mexican security forces was included in the joint explanatory statement for H.R. 6395, the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021:
At a time when homicide rates in Mexico have reached record highs, we must critically examine our cooperation with the Mexican authorities to ensure U.S. security assistance achieves real results. We believe that Mexico and the United States have a shared responsibility to reduce violent crime and improve quality of life for those living on both sides of our border. For this reason, we have long advocated for robust U.S. assistance to help Mexico strengthen its democratic institutions, combat corruption, defend human rights, and improve security. But we also believe we must perpetually reassess our assistance strategy and its alignment with the Mexican government's priorities to identify ways to improve our approach. This provision will help us do just that.
The full language requiring the report, from the 2021 NDAA joint explanatory statement, is below:
The conferees direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of State, not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, to jointly submit to the congressional defense committees, the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate, and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives a comprehensive assessment of ongoing support and a strategy for future cooperation between the United States Government and the Mexican security forces, including the Mexican National Guard, Federal, State, and municipal law enforcement. The report should include, at a minimum, the following:
 (1) A strategy and timeline for assistance to Mexican security forces, including the amounts of assistance, any defense articles, and training to be provided to each of the Mexican security forces;
 (2) A description of the transfer of U.S.-supported equipment, if any, from the Federal Police and Armed Forces to the National Guard;
 (3) Department of Defense and Department of State plans for all U.S. training for Mexican security forces, including training in human rights, proper use of force, de-escalation, investigation and evidence-gathering, community relations, and anti-corruption; and
 (4) An assessment of the National Guard's adherence to human rights standards to date, including its progress toward the adoption of measures to ensure accountability for human rights violations and the development of a human rights training curriculum. The report may be submitted in classified form with an unclassified summary.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409066,"<span class =""kicker"">House passes 2021 defense bill</span>Smith: Defense bill helps service members, NJ military missions, $37M for JB-MDL",2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"The House passed and Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04) voted for the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) today, new legislation that will protect the airlift and air refueling missions at America's only tri-service installation, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JB-MDL), and brings $37 million in construction jobs that will support construction work for the local economy.
 The bill requires the Secretary of the Air Force to maintain a minimum of 50 KC10 Extender tankersmany of which are based at JB-MDL here in New Jerseythrough fiscal year 2021, 38 Extenders through FY2022 and 26 through 2023, Smith said. This timetable should allow the critical air mobility mission at JB-MDL to continue without major disruptions as the Joint Base receives the new Boeing KC-46 tankers in the years ahead. We should see the first of 24 new aircraft in late 2021.
 The NDAA also restricts the premature retirement of KC-135 Stratotankerssuch as operated by the New Jersey National Guardfrom retiring. The missions of the active duty 305th Air Mobility Wing and its sister Air Force Reserve 514th Air Mobility Wing, as well as the NJ Air National Guard's 108th Air Refueling Wing, have never been more important, Smith said.  

   Smith noted the bill authorizes construction of two key military projects at JB-MDL located in part in his congressional district:  

 $22 million for the Air Force for a much-needed Munitions Storage Area 
 $15 million for the New Jersey National Guard to build a National Guard Readiness Center to help with deployments of Guard members from the base.
 The bill also addresses key military challenges including suicide prevention in the ranks and sexual assault and harassment and it improves information sharing on human trafficking activities to counter this heinous crime. The bill also provides 3 percent raises for all military personnel and hazard duty pay for certain deployments and combat.  

The 2021 NDAA also  

 initiates mental healthcare reforms for service-members, family members and retirees and seeks to improve the effectiveness of DoD's suicide prevention programs. 
 addresses sexual assault and harassment in the military with reforms designed to improve reporting, improve and protect the rights of victims, and provide for more effective responses for sex-related offenses. 
 authorizes improvements to Military Family Housing with long overdue upgrades to identification and remediation of severe environmental hazards, and support for families displaced for mold and other hazards.
 provides reforms for military families, including childcare shortages, reforms to programs that support military families with children with special needs.
 ensures service members have the diagnostic equipment, testing capabilities and PPE they need, along with providing medical surge capacity, and health benefits to members of the National Guard that supported the COVID-19 response.
 improves U.S. coordination and information-sharing to combat international human trafficking and reauthorizes a stronger, survivor-led U.S. Advisory Council on Human Trafficking. 
 strengthens tools to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorist programs.
 The author of the recently House-passed Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act and Ranking Republican on the U.S. Congressional-Executive Commission on China also highlighted key NDAA provisions that protect the U.S. from Chinese military and cyber threats and U.S. interests in promoting and protecting democracy around the world. 
   Specifically, the bill expands the prohibition on DoD acquiring certain sensitive materials from China, or certain printed circuit boards from China, Smith said. It also requires a report on the vulnerabilities to the medicine supply chain of the United States from foreign nations like China, and a Presidential assessment on how to deter Chinese industrial espionage and large-scale cyber theft of intellectual property and personal information. The NDAA also requires public reporting of Chinese military companies operating in the United States and for that list to be published on the Federal Register.  

    On human rights issues, democracy and the rule of law, President Xi is in a race to the bottom with North Korea, said Smith, noting thatfor over 30 years, I have pushed back on the fantasy notion that trade with Chinain reality, a gutting of American manufacturing and a wholesale transfer of intellectual propertywould somehow improve China's behavior. It just didn't happen.  

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-applauds-final-passage-ndaa-supports-our-servicemembers,"Norcross Applauds Final Passage of NDAA that Supports Our Servicemembers, Provides a Strong National Defense",2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC  Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Chair of the Tactical Air and Land Forces (TAL) Subcommittee in the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), applauded the final passage of H.R. 6395 the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021 (FY21). The act, which received bipartisan support, supports our servicemembers and their families, as well as our defense civilian workforce, while providing for a strong national defense and ensuring oversight to assure the Department of Defense's programs are fiscally responsible.
Our servicemembers and their families deserve our full support, and today we honored their work by authorizing a 3% raise, in addition to making child care more affordable and accessible to military families on bases, said TAL Chair Norcross. We live in an uncertain world with persistent, credible threats to our nation and our democracy, so it is more important than ever that we support our men and women in uniform and ensure the readiness and modernization of our nation's armed forces while spending our valuable resources wisely. Thanks to the leadership of HASC Chairman Adam Smith, this defense bill will provide the resources our military needs to keep America safe, as well as the oversight to ensure taxpayer money is being spent efficiently.
Norcross supported a policy requiring the renaming of military installations currently named after any person who served in the political or military leadership of the Confederacy.
America is the home of Democracy and the land of the free;' there is no room for any symbols of hate, bigotry or cruelty, said Norcross. Renaming our military structures is the right thing to do, and the President's consistent choice to side with Confederates that fought against America to keep people in chains is disgusting and just plain wrong.
Norcross added: New Jersey and the Delaware Valley are home to a number of defense facilities and industries that provide high-tech jobs and play an important role in our national security. I worked alongside Reps. Andy Kim (NJ-03) and Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) to provide continued support for the vital missions and groundbreaking work being performed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and Picatinny Arsenal, industrial base sites like Ridley Park's Chinookhelicopter facility, the ongoing defense research at Rowan University, and shipbuilding efforts at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, which are all strategically critical to both our national security and New Jersey's economy. Notably, we included one of my top priorities for our national defense and regional economy, which is to ensure the KC-10 aircraft refueling tanker fleet is not retired prematurely, so the service men and women at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst can continue carrying out their critical missions as planned, while preparing for delivery of the new KC-46s.
Norcross worked on the below specific provisions in this year's NDAA:
Strengthening South Jersey's Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst
Norcross fought to strengthen Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst by leading the effort to prevent the premature retirement of KC-10s. The Air Force had planned to retire six KC-10's in FY21 in order to begin the transition and bring in the Joint Bases' 24 new KC-46 air refueling aircraft starting in FY22. The Air Force however, earlier this year changed their request and sought to retire 16 KC-10's this year  10 more than originally planned. Given our current capacity gap in air refueling and the importance the air refueling mission has to the Base, Congressman Norcross led the effort to require the Air Force stick to the original plan.
Further, Norcross worked to ensure funding for the construction of a National Guard Readiness Center and Air Force Munitions Storage Area at the Joint Base. Norcross recently commended a milestone reached in construction of new KC-46 hangar on the Joint Base.
Supporting Service Members and Their Families
Norcross worked to ensure a 3% raise for all military servicemembers and to include a provision in the bill to ensure military families have access to affordable child care. This provision provides an on base housing preference for servicemembers whose spouse is a certified Family Child Care (FCC) provider and is willing to open their house to provide child care.
Wait times for child care at an on base Child Development Center (CDC) can be over a year, forcing many military families who live on base to find child care options off base. This amendment will provide for more on base child care options, while helping to alleviate the strain on CDC wait times.
Norcross also included an amendment requiring a report from the Department on implementing Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for servicemembers to be able to use pre-tax dollars to pay for out-of-pocket child care expenses.
Boosting Jobs, Research &amp; Development
Norcross included an additional $165 million in funding for the Chinook Block II program  adding five additional helicopters back into the budget  as well as an additional four V-22, which are both manufactured in Philadelphia.
Further, Norcross worked to support research projects being led by top-notch New Jersey institutions such as Rowan University to continue research on military engineering and infrastructure for cold regions like the strategically important arctic.
A fact sheet on the conference report can be found here.
###
Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-reelected-serve-vice-chair-congressional-progressive-caucus,Norcross Reelected to Serve as Vice Chair of Congressional Progressive Caucus,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC  Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) was re-elected to serve as Vice Chair for Labor for the Congressional Progressive Caucus in the 117th Congress.
It's an honor to serve as a leader of the Progressive Caucus  the largest Democratic caucus in the House of Representatives  and especially to represent America's workers as the Vice Chair for Labor. This is a continuation of my lifelong fight to support hardworking men and women and make certain, now more than ever, that every person has the dignity of a good-paying job,said Congressman Norcross. I thank Chairwoman Jayapal and my fellow caucus members for their commitment to our progressive agenda and putting workers first. As Vice Chair, I'll work to reverse the damage done over the last four years and help implement the Biden-Harris Administration's vision to build back better by defeating the coronavirus and investing in our workforce.
A union leader and electrician by trade, Norcross has a long history of fighting for all workers. Norcross is a 40-year member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and served as a business agent for IBEW Local 351. He also led the Southern New Jersey AFL-CIO Central Labor Council for 17 years.
Norcross added:I know the struggles that America's working families are facing because I've been there myself, and as we continue to battle COVID-19, it is crucial that we listen to and address the needs of working families trying to make ends meet. I look forward to working closely with my colleagues and President-elect Biden in this leadership role to stand up for our union brothers and sisters and all working Americans.
Norcross recently joined fellow union member Congressman Mark Pocan (D-WI) to create the Labor Caucus, intended to advance the needs of the labor movement, combat the issues facing working families and connect legislators directly with unions and union leaders. In addition, Norcross is a Co-Founder of the Bipartisan Building Trades Caucus, Vice-Chair of the Bipartisan Task Force to Combat the Opioid Epidemic and was recently appointed by Speaker Nancy Pelosi to serve as the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee's Parliamentarian for the 117th Congress  his fourth consecutive appointment to the committee.
Since being elected to Congress in 2014, Norcross has prioritized issues that matter to the American worker. He's advocated strongly for raising the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour, pay equity for women, retirement security and the proper enforcement of U.S. Department of Labor and NLRB regulations that protect our workforce.
###
Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409065,"<span class =""kicker"">Smiths 15th veterans bill becomes lawVFW, Sierra Club praised bill</span>'President Trump signs Smiths outdoor therapy vets legislation into law'",2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to help veterans heal through outdoor recreational therapy has been signed into law by President Trump. 
 Smith's bipartisan Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act (H.R. 2435), which was endorsed by more than 120 veteran service organizations, outdoor recreation groups and conservation organizations, will provide increased access to federal lands for the purposes of veterans' medical recovery therapy.Smith's billcosponsored by 136 bipartisan lawmakerswas included in a package of veterans' legislation, The Veterans' COMPACT Act (H.R. 8247), which passed unanimously in the House of Representatives in September and was passed unanimously by the Senate last month. Trump signed the legislation over the weekend.  

 Research has shown that outdoor recreation can be an effective form of treatment, rehabilitation and healing for veterans, said Smith, author of the Veterans Health Programs Improvement Act (P.L. 108-422), and 13 other veterans laws. While many nonprofit organizations, veteran service organizations and private companies have used the outdoors to help heroes heal, providing greater coordination among key federal agencies will open new opportunities for veterans on public lands and other outdoor spaces, said Smith, who has twice served as chair of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee.  

 The new law will require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an interagency task force on the use of public lands to provide medical treatment and therapy to veterans through outdoor recreation. After undertaking a comprehensive analysis, the task force will submit recommendations to Congress, within one year, on how to eliminate barriers and provide more public outdoor space for use by our veterans. Click here to watch Chris Smith's remarks on the House Floor on Sept. 23.  

 Upon House passage, many respected veterans and environmental groups praised the bill including New Jersey VFW State Legislative Director William F. Thomson, who said, Congratulations to Chris Smith on another important piece of veteran legislation.  

 Jeff Tittel, Director of the New Jersey Sierra Club, said, Connecting with nature and being in the wilderness is a powerful part of healing, and the Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act will help veterans access that power, and Rob Vessels, campaign manager of Sierra Club Military Outdoors, said Smith's bill would help in eliminating those barriers to access, so veterans can heal on the lands they swore an oath to protect.  

 According to the Department of Veterans Affairs' National Center for PTSD, between 11 and 20 percent of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, 12 percent of those who served in Desert Storm have PTSD in a given year, and 30 percent of those who served in Vietnam, will have had PTSD in their lifetime.  

 During House debate, Smith recounted how one combat wounded veteran who served in Iraq was suffering severe depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder responded to outdoor therapy. He had made three visits to the VA psychiatric wards and a substance abuse rehab. But it was a backpacking trip led by the Sierra Club that changed his perspective. Smith quoted the vet's own words: when the depression, anxiety, and everything else that comes with PTSD creeps back into my life, I know just what to do: Strap on a pack and get outside.''  

 Smith's other veterans bills signed into law:
 H.R.4511 - Gold Star Families Voices Act
 HR 4175 - Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act
 HR 2297 - Veterans Benefits Act 
 HR 1683 Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act 
 HR 100 Servicemembers Civil Relief Act
 HR 4085 Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act 
 HR 3838 - To amend the charter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
 HR 3447 - Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Programs Enhancement Act
 HR 3253 - Department of Veterans Affairs Emergency Preparedness Act 
 HR 2716 - Homeless Veterans Comprehensive Assistance Act
 HR 2540 - Veterans' Compensation Rate Amendments
 HR 1291 - Veterans Education and Benefits Expansion Act
 HR 801 - Veterans' Survivor Benefits Improvements Act
 HJRes 65 - Commending the World War II veterans who fought in the Battle of the Bulge

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-hosts-virtual-grant-workshop-local-non-profits-and-first-responders,Pallone Hosts Virtual Grant Workshop for Local Non-Profits and First Responders,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Long Branch, NJ  Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today hosted a virtual grants workshop to help local non-profits and first responders apply for federal grants. The workshop addressed ways to find grants, what to include in grant applications, and provided an overview of the resources available to help non-profits and firefighters serve their communities.
It's important now more than ever to make sure non-profits and first responders have the resources they need to continue their critical work during the coronavirus pandemic. In Congress, I'm working to make sure we continually provide federal agencies with funds these organizations can use to serve our communities, Pallone said. My office is ready to assist local organizations find and apply for federal grants and I encourage anyone with questions about the grant application process to call my office directly.
Information about applying for federal grants is available here. Organizations can also contact Congressman Pallone's office for assistance.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/washington-reviews/washington-review-december-5-2020,"Washington Review, December 5, 2020",2020-12-05,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"This week, the House voted on legislation to protect big cats from hostile internment, establish community advantage loan programs to help small businesses, and federally decriminalize marijuana. I also led a letter to House leadership highlighting the impact of COVID-19 on the affordable housing crisis in New Jersey and asking them to include relief measures in the next relief package. I joined letters to the House and Senate leadership supporting the inclusion of the RESTAURANT Act in an end of year package to support our local restaurants, to ensure that the college selection process is as transparent as possible and joined the New Jersey delegation in a letter asking what procedures were in place to protect long-term care facilities and their residents from COVID-19 during the upcoming winter. Additionally, I cosponsored legislation to compensate our essential and frontline workers, recognize the 5th anniversary of the Paris Climate Agreement, and to remove the federal felony drug ban penalty from nutrition assistance programs.
Legislation
On Thursday, the House voted on H.R. 1380, the Big Cat Public Safety Act, introduced by Rep. Mike Quigley (D-IL). This bill revises the current requirements governing big cats (lions, tigers, cougars, etc.) by restricting the possession and exhibition of big cats. Further, this legislation restricts direct contact between the public and big cats. Under current law, it is far too easy for individuals to obtain big cats and keep them on private property. It also aims to fix this issue and in doing so, protects the well-being of these precious animals while simultaneously protecting the public. Big cats are vibrant yet dangerous animals that should not be taken as pets or show animals. This bill will help more big cats stay in the wild while cracking down on those who abuse big cats for profit. I voted in favor of H.R. 1380, which passed the House by a vote of 272-114 and currently awaits further action from the Senate.
The House also voted on H.R. 7903, a bill to amend the Small Business Act to establish the Community Advantage Loan Program, introduced by Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA). The Community Advantage Loan Program was set up as a pilot program in 2011 to provide low-interest loans to small businesses that have been historically underserved by loan providers, such as veteran owned, service-disabled veteran owned, and minority owned small businesses. This legislation would reauthorize additional funding for the program through 2025, increase the training and assistance offered to small businesses through the program, and require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to report on the outcome of the program. Supporting our underserved small businesses is vital to the vibrance and success of our communities. Especially now, with the economic effects of COVID-19, we need to be giving small businesses as many tools as possible to succeed. H.R. 7903 passed the House by a voice vote and now awaits further action from the Senate.
On Friday, the House voted on H.R. 3884, the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act of 2019, introduced by Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY). This bill decriminalizes marijuana and removes marijuana from the list of controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act. This legislation also eliminates criminal penalties for individuals who manufacture, distribute, or possess marijuana. Additionally, this legislation takes the much-needed step of establishing a process to expunge convictions and review sentencings related to federal cannabis offenses and prohibits the denial of benefits for individuals who have been convicted of a federally related marijuana crime. The war on drugs has had an adverse impact on communities of color and low-income communities, and this legislation will help to correct those systematic wrongs. I voted in favor of H.R. 3884, which passed the House by a vote of 228-164 and now awaits further action from the Senate.
Cosponsored Legislation
I cosponsored H.R. 6909, the Pandemic Heroes Compensation Act, introduced by Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY). This bill is modeled after the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund and would create a fund that would provide compensation to essential workers and their families, who were required to leave their homes to perform their services and became ill or died as a result of COVID-19. On the frontline of this fight are our first responders, transit workers, health care workers, grocery store clerks, delivery workers, and military, as well as many other federal, state, local and tribal employees who have been deemed essential workers. Research shows that essential workers often work in low-wage positions that require risky face-to-face interactions without adequate protection. They are most at risk of illness during the COVID-19 pandemic, but in many cases, least able to afford the financial setback that can result from any interruption in work.
With the 5th anniversary of the Paris Climate Agreement approaching I cosponsored Rep. Alan Lowenthal's (D-CA) resolution recognizing the 5th anniversary of the historic climate agreement. With President-elect Biden vowing to rejoin the Paris Agreement after the detrimental withdrawal carried out by President Trump, the timing of recognizing the Paris Agreement cannot be more important. We are already beginning to experience the ramifications of the climate crisis and these impacts will only get worse if we do not begin to address the issue. It is for this reason that the international community came together in Paris, France in December 2015 and committed to curbing greenhouse gas emissions and ensuring global temperatures do not exceed 2 degrees Celsius of pre-industrial eras. I have long voiced my displeasure at this Administration's decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement. The United States should be leading the world in our pursuit of a more sustainable, environmentally friendly future, not shirking away from the responsibility.
I also signed onto H.R. 7916, the Removing Barriers to Basic Needs Act of 2020, introduced by Rep. Gwen Moore (D-WI). This bill would waive the federal felony drug ban in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program and the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) through December 2022. These programs provide a minimum level of support during times of financial hardships, including now during the COVID-19 pandemic. Current restrictions unfairly prevent vulnerable citizens, primarily people of color and women, from accessing life stabilizing supports during this national emergency. This ban is a relic from punitive War on Drugs policies that must be repealed. H.R. 7916 is a step towards reducing recidivism and has been endorsed by more than 50 civil rights, reentry, public health, and faith-based organizations at the national and state level.
Letters
I led a letter addressed to House leadership highlighting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the affordable housing crisis in New Jersey. In the letter, I outlined additionalspecific relief actions needed in any future relief or stimulus bill. These measures include extending the timeline for distribution of existing and future funds for public housing agencies, improving coordination between the Department of Housing and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and providing funding for housing agencies to operate tenant education programs. Additionally, the letter calls for mandating that all tenants facing eviction during a designated emergency period be provided with information regarding how to seek legal assistance, providing funding to help tenants pay back rent accrued during the federal eviction moratorium, banning tenant blacklisting by landlords for evictions that occur during a emergency period, and requiring that all tenants participating in voluntary eviction mediation during any federal eviction moratorium be provided with legal representation. Bringing fair and affordable housing to the 8th District has long been one of my highest priorities and I will continue to fight for this. Especially during this public health emergency, we must ensure people are able to maintain the roof over their heads.
I joined members of the New Jersey Congressional Delegation, in a letter led by Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) to the New Jersey Department of Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli asking what procedures were in place to protect long term care facility residents from COVID-19 as winter approaches. It is disheartening and unacceptable that since the onset of the virus in March more than 7,000 residents and staff at long-term care facilities have died, and that there have been outbreaks at more than 1,000 long-term care facilities in New Jersey. Residents at long-term care facilities are often among the most vulnerable population to a severe case of COVID-19. As winter approaches, in combination with flu-season and easier transmittance of viruses in general, it is incumbent upon us to remain vigilant in our efforts to protect long-term care residents. The letter asks Commissioner Persichilli to address the steps being taken to protect against any outbreaks of COVID-19 in long-term care facilities this coming winter.
I also signed onto a letter led by Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) to House and Senate leadership urging them to include the RESTAURANTS Act in any end of year relief or funding package. The restaurant sector is the second-largest private employer after health care, and the food and beverage industry is still down 2.3 million jobs since the pandemic began, a number that is sure to rise with increasing infection rates and new restrictions. the RESTAURANTS Act would create a $120 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund to provide structured relief to food service and drinking establishments. A June 2020 study on the legislation found it would generate at least $183 billion in primary benefits and $65 billion in secondary benefits  more than double the amount of the fund itself. Restaurants are often the cornerstones of our communities, during this exceptionally tough time for these establishments we must do everything possible to provide them with the relief and tools they need to continue succeeding in the future.
Open Enrollment
On November 1, 2020, Open Enrollment for health care plans began in New Jersey. This year, instead of using the federal marketplace, New Jersey will switch to their own state-run marketplace. In order to browse health care plans you can visit: www.nj.gov/getcoverednj. Here you will be able to compare available plans, review financial assistance options, and select a plan that is best for you. This new marketplace is easy to use and helps to clearly identify plans that will be most beneficial to you. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial we leave no one behind and that everyone has access to affordable health care. If you need health care, be sure to visit the site. Open enrollment is open from November 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021.
With cases of COVID-19 continuing to rise across the country, and in New Jersey, it is imperative we remain vigilant and safe. Please continue to wear a mask in public and practice social distancing when possible. I wish everyone in the 8th District a happy and healthy Thanksgiving. Please exercise caution if meeting with loved ones and take necessary measures to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and our community. Working together, we can help slow the spread of this virus. Please know that I will continue working to get the 8th District the resources it needs. If you have questions or need assistance please call my Washington, D.C. office at (202)225-7919 and follow instructions to be connected to my staff or send an email to NJ8inquiries@mail.house.gov. Together we can get through this.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-appointed-democratic-leadership-committee-117th-congress,Norcross Appointed to Democratic Leadership Committee for 117th Congress,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC  U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) has been appointed by Speaker Nancy Pelosi to serve as the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee's Parliamentarian for the 117th Congress. This is Norcross' fourth consecutive appointment to the committee that shapes and implements the party's agenda, advises the Caucus on important issues and assigns members to committees.
It's an honor for me to serve in a leadership role on the Steering and Policy Committee for the fourth consecutive year. In my role, I can help shape our agenda for working families and ensure that committees are well-balanced with my colleagues from New Jersey,said Congressman Norcross. On the Committee, I'll work to reverse the damage done over the last four years and implement the Biden-Harris Administration's policies to build back better and provide Americans with much-needed pandemic relief.
Norcross is a Co-Founder of the Building Trades Caucus andVice-Chair of the Bipartisan Task Force to Combat the Opioid Epidemic. In addition, Norcross recently joined fellow union member and colleague Congressman Mark Pocan (D-WI) to create the Labor Caucus, intended to advance the needs of the labor movement, combat the issues facing working families and connect legislators directly with unions and union leaders. An electrician by trade, Norcross has a long history of fighting for all workers.
Norcross added:I know the struggles that America's working families are facing because I've been there myself, and now, as we continue to battle the coronavirus, it's more important than ever that we listen to and address the needs of hardworking men and women. I look forward to working closely with my colleagues and newly-elected peers in this leadership role.
Since being elected to Congress in 2014, Norcross has prioritized issues of importance to the American worker. He's advocated strongly for pay equity for women, raising the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour, retirement security and the proper enforcement of U.S. Department of Labor and NLRB regulations that protect our workforce.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://payne.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-payne-jr-votes-decriminalize-marijuana,"Rep. Payne, Jr. Votes to Decriminalize Marijuana",2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Media Contact: Patrick Wright  -- Patrick.Wright@mail.house.gov
Washington, D.C. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. voted for the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act today. The bill (H.R. 3884) would decriminalize marijuana nationwide, require federal courts to delete prior marijuana convictions for Americans, and save taxpayers at least $3.6 billion per year. 
This bill is long overdue, said Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. There are too many Black and Latino men languishing in prison for offenses that are now legal in most states. This bill would right the social and legal wrongs that put them there. In addition, marijuana has been found to help with a variety of medical conditions and even can bring relief to veterans who suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I am proud to support this bill and hope the Senate passes it soon.
The bill would reverse a drug law that has existed since 1937. Since then, dozens of medical studies have shown that marijuana has significant health benefits when taken in controlled quantities, such as post-surgery and chronic pain relief. In addition, marijuana drug enforcement arrests more minorities and subjects them to longer prison sentences than white offenders for the same crimes. Studies have shown that Blacks are four times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession and Latinos are almost seven times more likely to receive a federal sentence for it than their white counterparts. Currently, 47 out of the 50 U.S. states have reclassified marijuana and many states have made small amounts legal for recreational use. 
 # # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/as-we-prepare-for-the-vaccine-rollout-we-must-remain-vigilant-in-the,"As We Prepare for the Vaccine Rollout, We Must Remain Vigilant in the Fight Against COVID-19",2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices finalized guidelines for states on Tuesday, saying that health care workers and long-term care facility residents and staff should be among the first in the country to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. This is a laudable decision and it is imperative that our hard-working health care heroes and residents in long-term care facilities (often among the most vulnerable in our population to a severe case of COVID-19) are protected. As we approach the rollout of the vaccine it is important for us to remember that other at-risk groups will soon be given the chance to vaccinate, and that we must all remain vigilant against the virus in the meantime.
Unfortunately, nursing homes in New Jersey were amongst the hardest hit by COVID-19 during the initial surge in March and April. With 4,176 nursing home deaths, New Jersey has the fifth highest total in the country[1]. Ensuring the safety of residents in nursing homes and all long-term care facilities is one of my highest priorities and I am glad to see this population will be one of the first to receive vaccinations. Similarly, it is crucial that we vaccinate the staff of long-term care facilities so that they can comfortably and confidently interact with and care for residents without the fear that they could be spreading the virus.
Throughout the pandemic, health care workers have become a shining example of our country's best and brightest, working long-hours and taking on exceptional risk to care for those in need. Since the start of the pandemic, over 83,000 health care workers have contracted COVID-19 and sadly over 600 have passed away[2]. Even with this staggering risk, health care workers have pushed on, caring for those struggling with COVID-19 and other ailments. These workers need to be protected, as hospitals across the country begin to fill up with a new surge of COVID-19 cases, the doctors, nurses, and other professionals who treat them need to be safe in doing so. Additionally, health care workers will be among those administering the vaccine to the general public, in order to do this in a timely and effective manner it is essential this population is properly vaccinated themselves.
The current vaccine recommendations from the CDC are only part 1A' of a larger scale program. In the coming weeks and months, other at-risk groups are likely to receive the vaccine as well; including those over 65 and those with pre-existing or high-risk conditions, and eventually the general public. As we work towards that point, we must be conscious of the current rise of cases and continue to act with vigilance and common-sense to deter the virus. Wearing a mask, washing your hands, and maintaining a 6-foot distance from others are still the most effective tools we have at combatting the virus. With the holiday season upon us many people will be straying from this guidance, but we need to remain firm in our commitment to keep our communities, loved ones, and ourselves safe. When we all take these steps together, we can have great success in curbing and stopping the spread of this virus. Acting together, we are stronger, and together, we can get through this.


	  
		[1] Data.cms.gov. 2020.COVID-19 Nursing Home Data | Data.CMS.Gov. [online] Available at: &lt;https://data.cms.gov/stories/s/COVID-19-Nursing-Home-Data/bkwz-xpvg/&gt; [Accessed 2 December 2020].
	
	
		[2] Update: Characteristics of Health Care Personnel with COVID-19 - United States, February 12July 16, 2020, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, September 24, 2020), https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6938a3.htm.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bipartisan-group-of-members-of-congress-condemn-venezuela-s-sham,Bipartisan Group of Members of Congress Condemn Venezuelas Sham Legislative Elections,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC)  Today, Reps. Albio Sires (D-NJ), Eliot Engel (D-NY), Michael McCaul (R-TX), and Francis Rooney (R-FL) the chairs and ranking members of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee and House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement condemning the upcoming legislative elections in Venezuela:
The December 6th legislative elections organized by the Maduro regime are illegitimate and do not meet any standard for a free and fair process. Prominent opposition leaders are legally prohibited from participating, and the leadership of many political parties has been forcibly replaced with regime supporters. Further, the Maduro regime packed the National Electoral Council with loyalists, in violation of the Venezuelan Constitution.
Knowing the pre-determined outcome, Maduro stated that after these elections he will dissolve the Constituent Assembly, a parallel legislative body he created in 2017 to undermine the legitimately elected National Assembly. And true to its autocratic nature, the regime has threatened to withhold food from Venezuelans who do not vote in the sham elections.
The international community must come together in rejecting the Maduro regime's latest power-grab and continued abuse of power. We stand with the Venezuelan people as they seek to restore democracy to their country and continue to support their right to choose their leaders through credible and competitive elections.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/grupo-de-representantes-bipartidistas-del-congreso-condenan-las-falsas,Grupo de Representantes bipartidistas del Congreso condenan las falsas elecciones legislativas de Venezuela,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.)  Hoy, los representantes Albio Sires (D-NJ), Eliot Engel (D-NY), Michael McCaul (R-TX) y Francis Rooney (R-FL), los presidentes y miembros de alto rango del Subcomit del Hemisferio Occidental y el Comit de Asuntos Exteriores de la Cmara respectivamente, emitieron el siguiente comunicado condenando las prximas elecciones legislativas en Venezuela:
Las elecciones legislativas del 6 de diciembre organizadas por el rgimen de Maduro son ilegtimas y no cumplen con ningn estndar para un proceso libre y justo. Los lderes prominentes de la oposicin de hecho tienen prohibido legalmente participar, y el liderazgo de muchos partidos polticos ha sido reemplazado por la fuerza por partidarios del rgimen. Adems, el rgimen de Maduro llen el Consejo Nacional Electoral de leales cercanos, en violacin de la Constitucin venezolana.
Conociendo el resultado predeterminado, Maduro afirm que luego de estas elecciones disolver la Asamblea Constituyente, un cuerpo legislativo paralelo que cre en 2017 para socavar la Asamblea Nacional legtimamente elegida. Y fiel a su naturaleza autocrtica, el rgimen ha amenazado con negarles la comida a los venezolanos que no voten en las falsas elecciones.
La comunidad internacional debe unirse para rechazar la ltima toma de poder del rgimen de Maduro y el continuo abuso de poder. Apoyamos al pueblo venezolano en su bsqueda de restaurar la democracia en su pas y continan apoyando su derecho a elegir a sus lderes a travs de elecciones crebles y competitivas.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409061,"<span class =""kicker"">Rep. Smith's hearing statement on Ethiopian crisis</span>'The Unfolding Conflict in Ethiopia'",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Excerpts of remarks by Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ) at a hearing of the House Africa Subcommittee on the crisis in Ethiopia held on December 3, 2020:
I'd like to thank Chairwoman Bass for once again convening a hearing on an extremely important topicthe unfolding conflict in Ethiopia, centered around the Tigray region, but one which impacts the entire country.
Indeed, it is my belief that Ethiopia is one of the two most strategically significant countries in AfricaNigeria being the other oneand what happens there is amplified throughout the region. 
And while I am hopeful that the Ethiopian government's capturing of the regional Tigrayan capital of Mekelle, coupled with an announcement that the government will allow United Nations humanitarian assistance to flow in the region, signals an end to armed conflict, nonetheless my concern is that the fall of the capital marks simply the end to one stage of an armed civil conflict and signals the beginning of a protracted civil war characterized by guerilla tactics. This concern is based in part on the history of the Tigray People Liberation Front, or TPLF, and the geography of the Tigray region and Ethiopia.
The TPLF, of course, came to rule all of Ethiopia following a successful guerrilla campaign against the Derg  a case of a Marxist-inspired movement overthrowing a Marxist governmentin the early 1990s. As guerillas, the TPLF used the highland terrain of Ethiopia, including Tigray, to their advantage. 
During the years of TPLF rule, this subcommittee was at the forefront of raising concern about human rights abuses. Following a critical hearing I chaired in the Spring of 2005, I traveled to Ethiopia and met Prime Minister Meles that August, as well as with human rights leaders. I raised concerns directly with him, especially the egregiously flawed election and the killing of dissidents by his forces, and the next year introduced the Ethiopia Freedom, Democracy and Human Rights Advancement Act. 
Following the passing of Prime Minister Meles, domination by the TPLF continued, and this subcommittee held another critical hearing on Ethiopia after Meles, and The Future of Democracy and Human Rights. And it was a resolution which I introduced along with Chairwoman Bass, H. Res. 128, Supporting Respect for Human Rights and Encouraging Inclusive Governance in Ethiopia, that passed the House on April 10, 2018, which laid out milestones for a transition from rule by the TPLF. 
Following Prime Minister Abiy's ascension, Chairwoman Bass and I met with him in August 2018, and were encouraged by his words and actions, including the release of thousands of political prisoners. 
The removal of the TPLF as the dominant power in Ethiopia, however, which had brought a reform-minded Prime Minister Abiy to leadership in 2018, also unleashed protracted jockeying between other ethnic groups, most notably the two largest, the Oromo and the Amhara, as well as intra-ethnic conflict. Indeed, Prime Minister Abiy's position among his own Oromo group is not solidified, and his pan-Ethiopian vision is being challenged by Oromo separatists, such as the Oromo Liberation Front, and a now-jailed firebrand, Jawar Mohammed. 
These ethnic tensions are further exacerbated by a constitutional order bequeathed by the TPLF commonly called ethnic federalism, which has led to the pitting of one group against another and fueled regional separatism and the desire to cleanse regions of other ethnicities. 
Though it may not be considered polite to discuss issues such as ethnicity and religion, one cannot understand the current crisis in Ethiopia without reference to the ethnic tensions which are often overlaid with religious ones. We in Congress must be careful, however, to not inadvertently stir up further ethnicity-based division by taking the side of one group over another, but rather, urge a path of reconciliation and negotiation which will likely lead to no one being fully satisfied, but will help reduce tensions. 
Many individuals and groups can point to grievances, whether historical or ongoing, which are quite real. The war in Tigray threatens to exacerbate an already severe humanitarian problem. 
We have seen crisis upon crisis upon crisis beset Ethiopia in this year alone. Not only did COVID impact Ethiopia, as it did so many countries, but on top of that there was a major locust plague which has created major food insecurity throughout Ethiopia, the Horn, East Africa and beyond. And now, armed conflict. 
There needs to be a time for justice and accountability, for the atrocities committed by all sides. No matter what the exigent circumstances, civil libertieswhich Prime Minister Abiy to his credit helped restore in 2018cannot be curtailed indefinitely. 
But first, we need to stop the bloodshed and address the humanitarian needs. And the anti-ethnic violence and hateful rhetoric must end. 
As Secretary Mike Pompeo related in his call with Prime Minister Abiy on November 30, there should be a complete end to the fighting and constructive dialogue to resolve the crisis. He also stressed the need to protect civilians from further harm, including those fleeing the conflict crossing the border into Sudan, and respect for the human rights of all ethnic groups, including Tigrayans. 
Fortunately, it looks like an agreement has been reached between the Ethiopian government and the United Nations to allow for unimpeded humanitarian access to areas of Tigray under government control. I hope that at a minimum the basic needs of those who have been displaced in the fightingwhich some estimate to be a million peoplecan now be addressed, even while political issues still remain to be resolved. 
Ethiopia is a great country, a proud nation whose roots reach back to the Old Testament. It retained its independence where others didn't. It is the seat of the African Union, and a world leader. Its soldiers help keep peace in other countries in conflict, and its cultural and artistic influence is widespread. 
It is therefore absolutely imperative that Ethiopia not succumb to internal division and ethnic hatred. Ethiopia is far too important, not just for the Ethiopian people, but for the entire Horn and Africa as a whole. It must overcome this year of crises, and return to being an example to be followed.
 I look forward to hearing from our witnesses. Thank you.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://payne.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-payne-jr-wants-immediate-medicare-support-colorectal-cancer-surgeries,"Rep. Payne, Jr. Wants Immediate Medicare Support for Colorectal Cancer Surgeries",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Media Contact: Patrick Wright  -- Patrick.Wright@mail.house.gov
Washington, D.C. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. wants to add colorectal cancer surgeries to the list of services covered under Medicare before the new year. If successful, the move could increase the number of Americans who get screened for the disease and save thousands of lives. Colorectal cancer is second only to lung cancer in U.S. cancers deaths every year. 
The Congressman wrote a letter to House and Senate leadership today to add his bill, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act (H.R. 1570), to any end-of-the-year legislative package. The bill would allow Medicare to cover cancer surgeries as well as screenings for patients at risk for colorectal cancer. It is one of the most popular bills in Congress with 342 co-sponsors. 
It has been my mission to prevent colorectal cancer deaths since I lost my father, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Sr., to the deadly disease, said Congressman Payne, Jr. My bill would give doctors more freedom to treat and remove cancerous growths when they find them and improve the health and safety of millions of Americans at risk for colorectal cancer. I hope it is added to legislation and passed soon, so we can begin to save American lives immediately.
Currently, Medicare covers colorectal cancer screenings, but not surgeries. If doctors find and remove cancerous growths during a screening, patients could end up paying thousands of dollars for the removal. Rep. Payne, Jr.'s bill would allow Medicare to cover the screenings and the surgeries so patients can avoid that surprise medical charge. Rep. Payne, Jr. co-wrote the letter with Rep. Donald McEachin (D-VA) and it has 26 additional Congressional co-signers. 
I am committed to removing barriers to colorectal cancer screenings becauseI know firsthand how important it is to catch this cancer before it progresses  a routine colonoscopy saved my life, said Rep. McEachin. Too frequently, however, many lack access to these early detection screenings, resulting in fewer treatment options and higher mortality rates in communities of color and low-income communities. Passing the bipartisan Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act would close the existing Medicare loophole, reducing potential surprise medical bills and immediately removingone more unnecessary barrier to receivingalife-saving, preventative treatment for this insidious disease.
The letter is added below.
####
December 3, 2020

The Honorable Nancy Pelosi  The Honorable Mitch McConnell
Speaker  Majority Leader
U.S. House of Representatives  U.S. Senate
H-232, U.S. Capitol  S-230, U.S. Capitol
Washington, D.C. 20515  Washington, D.C. 20510

The Honorable Kevin McCarthy   The Honorable Charles E. Schumer
Minority Leader  Minority Leader
U.S. House of Representatives  U.S. Senate
H-204, U.S. Capitol  S-221, U.S. Capitol
Washington, D.C. 20515  Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Speaker Pelosi, Leader McCarthy, Leader McConnell, and Leader Schumer:

As we approach the end of the year, we strongly urge you to include H.R. 1570, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act, in an end-of-year legislative package. As members of the Congressional Black Caucus, we understand how important this bill is to reducing the significant rise in colorectal cancer incidence and its disproportionate impact on minority populations, especially the African American community.
Colorectal cancer is a horrible disease that has taken too many loved ones before their time, including the late Congressman Donald Payne Sr. and more recently, actor Chadwick Boseman in August of this year. According to the American Cancer Society, African Americans are disproportionately affected by the disease, being approximately 20 percent more likely to get colorectal cancer and about 40 percent more likely to die from it than most other groups.
With 342 cosponsors and 35 groups in support, the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act would close a Medicare loophole that can result in Medicare beneficiaries waking up to a surprise bill when polyps are removed during a routine colonoscopy. Closing the loophole would remove the potential for surprise bills, encourage preventive treatment for colorectal cancer, and save lives.
Again, we respectfully urge you to include the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act in an end-of-year legislative package. Thank you in advance for your consideration of our request.
Sincerely,
 Donald M. Payne, Jr. A. Donald McEachin
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

 /s /s
      Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. Bennie G. Thompson
 Member of Congress Member of Congress
 
 /s /s
 Bonnie Watson Coleman Bobby L. Rush
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

 /s /s
 Eleanor Holmes Norton Andr Carson
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

 /s /s
 Al Lawson  Eddie Bernice Johnson
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

 /s  /s
  Sheila Jackson Lee   Danny K. Davis
 Member of Congress  Member of Congress

  /s /s
Anthony G. Brown Joyce Beatty
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

 /s /s
 Henry C. Hank Johnson, Jr.  Emanuel Cleaver, II
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

 /s /s
 Marc Veasey  Yvette D. Clarke
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

 /s  /s
  Alcee L. Hastings   Al Green
 Member of Congress  Member of Congress

  /s /s
Gregory W. Meeks Barbara Lee
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

 /s /s
 Alma S. Adams, Ph.D.   Maxine Waters
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

 /s /s
 Robin L. Kelly Stacey E. Plaskett
 Member of Congress Member of Congress

 /s /s
 Lisa Blunt Rochester Colin Z. Allred
 Member of Congress Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-norcross-mckinley-sens-coons-young-bill-expand-registered,"Reps. Norcross, McKinley, Sens. Coons, Young Bill to Expand Registered Apprenticeships in High-Growth Job Sectors Passes House",2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC  U.S. Representatives Donald Norcross, (NJ-01) and David McKinley P.E. (R-W.Va.) and U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Todd Young (R-Ind.) celebrated the House passage of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020. The bill, which includes their bipartisan and bicameral Apprenticeship Hubs Across America Act, will invest more than $3.5 billion to create nearly one million new apprenticeship opportunities over the next five years.
A Registered Apprenticeship shaped my life  laying the foundation for me to go from the construction site to Congress, said Congressman Norcross. I am pleased that the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 includes our Apprenticeship Hubs Across America Act, which will provide students and workers across the country access to apprenticeship opportunities by expanding and strengthening the proven models developed by the Registered Apprenticeship Program. Expanding access to Registered Apprenticeships  our country's most successful workforce training program  will allow workers to earn while they learn and accelerate our economic recovery. I urge our colleagues in the Senate to consider the National Apprenticeship Act and support American workers and their futures.
Investing in job training programs and apprenticeships is crucial, especially when COVID-19 has left millions of Americans without work, said Congressman McKinley. By increasing access to apprenticeships, we will close the skilled workers gap, create good-paying jobs in our communities, and help aid in our economic recovery.
I am proud that the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 includes our Apprenticeship Hubs Across America Act, a bill to expand organizations like Delaware Pathways that help employers design, develop, and deliver Registered Apprenticeship Programs, said Senator Coons. As the economic disruption of COVID-19 has left millions of Americans without work, it is more important than ever for the government to invest in quality job training programs, like Registered Apprenticeships, and create more opportunities for America's displaced workers and youth. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to consider the National Apprenticeship Act immediately.
As a member of the Senate Career and Technical Education Caucus, I have witnessed the benefits of apprenticeships and the opportunities they provide, said Senator Young. Now that a global pandemic has left countless Americans without work, it is more important than ever that we invest in career-supporting apprenticeship programs. I'm pleased that our Apprenticeship Hubs Across America Act is one step closer to becoming law.
The National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 is endorsed by American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), Laborers' International Union of North America (LIUNA), Jobs for the Future (JFF), National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), National Skills Coalition (NSC), National Taskforce on Tradeswomen's Issues (TWTF), North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU), and Third Way.
The bill text of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 is available here.
A one-pager for the Apprenticeship Hubs Across America Act is available here.
###
Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-leads-call-adequate-health-and-safety-protections-laundry-workers-perth,Pallone Leads Call for Adequate Health and Safety Protections for Laundry Workers in Perth Amboy,2020-12-01,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Long Branch, NJ  Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Senator Joseph Vitale, Speaker Craig Coughlin, and Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez today sent a letter to Unitex/Med-Apparel Services, Inc. demanding that the company uphold safety standards to protect workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The workers clean linens for hospitals in New Jersey and New York. The workers held a rally on September 29 to demand stronger protections during the pandemic and went on strike on November 18 and 19 to protest the company's alleged unfair labor practices.
We write with concern regarding reports on the lack of adequate health and safety protections for essential workers at your Perth Amboy, New Jersey, facility. We are also troubled by reports that Med-Apparel Services, Inc. and its parent company, Unitex, are attempting to use workers' pension funds as a bargaining chip before the company will give its employees the modest wage increases it has proposed, and that Unitex/Med-Apparel flatly refuses to commit to implementing COVID-19 safety reforms. We urge you to immediately return to good-faith negotiations with these workers and their union and to uphold critical COVID-19 safety standards in your Perth Amboy facility, the lawmakers wrote.
We're grateful forthesupport from Congressman Pallone in this important fight for justice for essential workers. Our members are essential laundry workers, and they have stepped up during the COVID-19 pandemic, facing significant health risks to keep many New Jersey hospitals and nursing homes safe.These brave and dedicated workers will not accept intimidation, illegal threats, or unreasonable concessions from Unitex, saidAlberto Arroyo,Co-Manager oftheLaundry, Distribution, and Food Service Joint Board, Workers United/SEIU, and a top union official negotiating on behalf of the Perth Amboy Unitex employees. It's time for Unitex, a wealthy corporation, to deliver the fair new union contract our members have earned. For us and our members, a fair new union contract must includeCOVID-19 protections, modest wage increases, and continuation of pension benefits for current and future employees.
We're glad to have Congressman Pallone on our side as we fight for a fair newunion contract. We're essential workers, and we deserve to be treated much better by our employer Unitex.I have dedicated years of my life to this job. It's hard work cleaning and processing gowns, sheets, and other linens for hospitals and nursing homes in New Jersey, Brgida Vidal, a worker at the Perth Amboy facility said. But I am proud to help keep many of New Jersey's health care facilities clean and safe every day, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the years, my co-workers and I have helped Unitex become a very wealthy and successful company. But instead of treating us fairly, Unitex recently forced us to strike after theyillegally threatened us and tried to intimidate us into accepting a bad contract. We won't stop fighting until we win the fair newunion contract wedeserve.
A copy of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409056,"US lawmakers: UK Sec of State greatly disappoints, continues injustices of Finucane murder case",2020-11-30,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Reps. Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Richard Neal (D-MA), who spearheaded a bipartisan congressional letter urging an independent UK inquiry into government collusion in the 1989 assassination of human rights lawyer Patrick Finucane, today released the following statement in response to UK Secretary of State Brandon Lewis' disappointing decision to block a public hearing into the murder:
  The British Government's announcement today, its most recent attempt to break its promise for a public inquiry into the murder of defense attorney Patrick Fincuane, is inconsistent, unrealistic and dismissive of the extraordinary human rights implications of his murdera case where the government has acknowledged collusion but will not accept responsibility.
  Despite multiple public commitments to get to the truth and foster reconciliation for a lasting peace, the British government has instead engaged in years-long subterfuge, substituting one limited review after another, always short of the public inquiry.  

  We had hoped that today would be different.We had hoped today would be the day the British Government would get back on track, follow through on its solemn obligation and hold accountable those responsible for this heinous crime.
  Instead they offer more ploys, more maneuvering.
  There is no statute of limitations on the truth. And while we are heartsick for Geraldine and the entire Finucane family we are no less determined to work with them to get to truth.
  Smith, a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has chaired 17 congressional hearings on human rights and the peace process in the north of Ireland10 of which featured Finucane's surviving children and/or his wife Geraldine who was injured in the assassination.
  Neal, chairman of both the bipartisan Friends of Ireland Caucus as well as the House Ways and Means Committee, has fought side-by-side with Smith and other members of the U.S. Congress for the Finucane family for over 30 years to obtain justice. Their bipartisan letter, signed by 24 Members of the U.S. Congress, was sent to Prime Minister Boris Johnson last week.
 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409057,"<span class =""kicker"">CNN Op-Ed by Smith, other lawmakers</span>'Fighting anti-Semitism online requires a global effort '",2020-11-30,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Given the state of global affairs, it is not a given that we -- a bipartisan group of elected officials from Israel, the US, Canada, Australia and the UK -- would find common ground in the midst of a global pandemic. However, the disconcerting proliferation of anti-Semitism through new technology demands that we take urgent action.

We recently launchedthe Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism in order to hold social media companies accountable for what takes place on their platforms and help create transparent policies to tackle hate speech.
The hate that we see online isn't just harmless chatter relegated to dark corners of the internet -- it often spills onto the streets, and dangerous propaganda can quickly transcend the geographic borders of any of our countries. Combating this global hatred, therefore, requires a global solution.
  
The launch of our task force follows grassroots initiatives, including the#NoSafeSpaceForJewHatecampaign, and repeated calls to action after social media platforms have ignored or inadequately addressed virulent anti-Semitism on their platforms.


    
    
      
    Last year, Facebook's CEOMark Zuckerberg published acall for help from elected officials requesting that we take a more significant role in the battle to combat hate on the internet. We are here to answer this call.  
    
    Our task force, made up of lawmakers across the political spectrum, underscores the fact that the fight against anti-Semitism should be a nonpartisan issue in democratic countries and that virulent anti-Semitism is a poison that exists among both the far left and far right. We are launching this process with the mission of creating consistent understanding, messaging and policy to be utilized by our respective legislatures.
      
    We will hold virtual hearings, bringing together experts on technology and speech from around the world to meet directly with parliamentarians and tech companies in an unprecedented way. We will engage with social media companies to stress the tremendous duty that comes with the power that they hold, highlighting that these platforms can and should play an important role in raising awareness among their users about what content violates accepted norms while enabling the continuation of open and free dialogue.
      
    Despite the variations in our countries' policies regarding hate speech, there are shared principles that can be utilized in battling anti-Semitism online. Recognizing when free speech crosses into dangerous hate speech enables the creation of boundaries online while protecting the fundamental freedoms of discourse.
      
    While our task force will focus on combating online anti-Semitism, we recognize that if one minority cannot be protected by policy, ultimately none can be. In doing so, the task force can serve as a model for the collaboration necessary to protect all minority groups from online hate.
      
    As elected officials, we also have an obligation to our constituents. We will engage with communities and organizations and publish recommendations that can help all social media users feel safer. We will hold those promoting online hate to account, and we will push companies to consider more stringent guardrails to prevent the kind of offensive and harassing content that is all too prevalent.
      
    We must come together to more skillfully combat online anti-Semitism, with social media companies recognizing their power and responsibility to prevent users from spreading corrosive hate on these platforms. Only by working together do we have a shot at making significant changes.
      
    Anti-Semitism has survived millennia because it constantly adapts. We must rise to today's challenge of fighting this hatred in its latest form. By bringing together parliamentarians representing different countries and political beliefs, we are forming a united front and a global commitment to combating this deeply serious issue.
      
    Michal Cotler-Wunsh is a member of Knesset in the Blue and White Party in Israel
    Ted Deutch is a Democratic member of Congress in the United States
    Debbie Wasserman Schultz is a Democratic member of Congress in the United States
    Chris Smith is a Republican member of Congress in the United States
    Anthony Housefather is a Liberal member of Parliament in Canada
    Marty Morantz is a Conservative member of Parliament in Canada
    Randall Garrison is an NDP member of Parliament in Canada.
    Dave Sharma is a Liberal member of Parliament in Australia
    Josh Burns is a Labor member of Parliament in Australia
    Alex Sobel is a Labour and Cooperative member of Parliament in the United Kingdom
    Andrew Percy is a Conservative member of Parliament in the United Kingdom
    Michael Levitt is a former Liberal member of Parliament in Canada
      
    Editor's Note: The Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism is made up of a multiparty group of lawmakers from Israel, the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK. The views expressed in this commentary belong to the authors. Viewmore opinionat CNN.This article was originally published by CNN on Nov. 30, 2020 and can be found online at:
    https://www.cnn.com/2020/11/30/opinions/tackling-antisemitism-online-inter-parlimentary-task-force/index.html",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/washington-reviews/washington-review-november-27-2020,"Washington Review, November 27, 2020",2020-11-27,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"This week, I signed onto legislation to allow tax credits to rollover for childcare costs and signed onto a bill to keep students safe in schools. I also signed onto to letters to urge the President to have the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) set up drive through COVID-19 testing in New Jersey, include pro-worker and pro-labor provisions in the Fiscal Year 2021(FY21) appropriations package, and demand answers from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) about the detention of unaccompanied minors.
Legislation
I became a cosponsor of H.R. 6958, the COVID-19 Dependent Care Flexible Spending Arrangement Rollover Act of 2020, introduced by Rep. Cynthia Axne (D-IA) and Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN). This bill would allow Dependent Care Assistance Plans (DCAPs) to roll over from 2020 to 2021 to help families save money. Parents have savedmoney into DCAPs,that help a family pay for childcare. DCAPs arean automatic, pre-tax saving accountfrom anemployer that helps parents save for the high cost of childcare. DCAPS can only be spent on childcare costs. Due to the pandemic, these familieshave not been ableto spend thismoney. According to tax law, any moneysaved into DCAPsmust be spent before the end of 2020. DCAPs accounts don't rollover  they are a use it or lose it a tax credit. Due to this pandemic, themoney in these DCAPsat the end of 2020 will be gone because families have been unable to attend childcare for nearly the entire year. Appropriate childcare is an essential aspect to any child's development and an equally important aspect of helping parents return to work as in-office schedules become more common again. Allowing families to rollover these tax credits to next year is beneficial to families as well as our economy.
I also signed onto the Keeping All Students Safe Act, introduced by Rep. Con Beyer (D-VA) and Rep. Donald McEachin (D-VA). This bill would make it illegal for any school receiving federal funds to seclude a child or use dangerous restraint practices that restrict breathing. The bill would also prohibit schools from physically restraining children, except when necessary to protect students and staff. Lastly, the bill would better equip school personnel with the training they need to address school-expected behavior with evidence-based proactive strategies. Itis important that we equip school workers with the adequate skills to assess and calmly defuse any situations that arise with students. Restricting a student's breathing or other harmful physical conduct is never appropriate to use on our students.
Letters
On Tuesday, I joined colleagues in the New Jersey Congressional delegation in a letter led by Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) to the President requesting increased federal resources to help deal with the rising number of COVID-19 cases in New Jersey. Over the past few weeks, cases of COVID-19 have gone up again in New Jersey, with a positivity rate of over 10% for those who have been tested. Although there are still tests available, reports of long-lines at testing centers are surely discouraging some people from obtaining a test. The letter, addressed to the President, requests more federal resources for New Jersey. Specifically, it requests a reopening of FEMA drive through testing sites that were operational during late spring and over the summer. An increase in testing sites would help handle the large influx of individuals who are trying to get tested and would go a long way in helping to keep our communities safe.
The reports of minors being held in DHS and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) detention centers is one of the most shocking policies of this Administration. That is why I signed onto a letter led by Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-TX) and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus addressed to acting DHS Secretary Chad Wolf demanding answers for the prolonged detention of children. CBP data shows that over 70 children were held in CBP custody for over 72 hours, with some children being held for more than two weeks. In accordance with the law, CBP should have transferred several of these children within 72 hours, making these revelations all the more unacceptable. The letter calls on Mr. Wolf to explain the reason why these children, including 14 children under the age of 5, were held for longer than is legally allowed, and asks for contingency plans to ensure that no children are held in CBP custody this long again.
I also joined Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI) and Rep. Donald Norcross (D-NJ) in sending a letter to Congressional Leadership and the chairs of the House and Senate Appropriations Committee urging the inclusion of House-passed pro-labor and pro-worker provisions in the upcoming FY21 Appropriations package. The letter specifically calls on leadership to include already passed House provisions into any final FY21 appropriations agreement. Some of these provisions include prohibiting federal agencies from imposing new union contracts not agreed to through collective bargaining negotiations, blocking regulations which prevent unionized home health workers from using payroll deductions to pay union dues, and prohibiting the Department of Labor and National Labor Relation Board rules that compensate corporations for working condition violations of franchisees and contractors. Additionally, the letter calls for provisions that prohibit the implementation of any rule that would privatize job search functions and other essential services offered through the Employment Service System and provide $12.7 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Labor to be included. Many workers have been struggling with the economic fallout of COVID-19. It is incumbent upon us to do all we can to ensure the safety and protection of workers and their rights.
Open Enrollment
On November 1, 2020, Open Enrollment for health care plans began in New Jersey. This year, instead of using the federal marketplace, New Jersey will switch to their own state-run marketplace. In order to browse health care plans you can visit: www.nj.gov/getcoverednj. Here you will be able to compare available plans, review financial assistance options, and select a plan that is best for you. This new marketplace is easy to use and helps to clearly identify plans that will be most beneficial to you. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial we leave no one behind and that everyone has access to affordable health care. If you need health care, be sure to visit the site. Open enrollment is open from November 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021.
With cases of COVID-19 continuing to rise across the country, and in New Jersey, it is imperative we remain vigilant and safe. Please continue to wear a mask in public and practice social distancing when possible. I wish everyone in the 8th District a happy and healthy Thanksgiving. Please exercise caution if meeting with loved ones and take necessary measures to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and our community. Working together, we can help slow the spread of this virus. Please know that I will continue working to get the 8th District the resources it needs. If you have questions or need assistance please call my Washington, D.C. office at (202)225-7919 and follow instructions to be connected to my staff or send an email to NJ8inquiries@mail.house.gov. Together we can get through this.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409054,"US lawmakers send bipartisan letter to UK prime minister urging independent, judicial investigation into Finucane murder",2020-11-25,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"The United Kingdom must end years of delay and establish an independent inquiry into collusion in the 1989 murder of human rights lawyer Patrick Finucane, said Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), who with Rep. Richard Neal (D-MA) sent a bipartisan letter signed by 24 members of the U.S. Congress to Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
 Pat Finucane was a courageous defense attorney, a loving father and husband, gunned down because of his commitment to human rights and the rule of law,said Smith, who has chaired 17 congressional hearings on human rights and the peace process in the north of Ireland10 of which featured Finucane's surviving children and/or his wife Geraldine who was injured in the assassination. The British government's deliberate decision not to proceed with an independent, judicial inquiry into the Finucane murderan unfulfilled commitment of the peace processis a public breach of faith. It resonates throughout Northern Ireland and among international lawmakers and human rights observers, undercutting the good the British government has done and its commitment to justice, truth and reconciliation.
   Said Neil, As chairman of the bipartisan Friends of Ireland Caucus in the United State Congress, I once again join my colleagues calling on the British government to hold a public inquiry into the killing of human rights lawyer Pat Finucane. I continue to believe the Finucane family has a right to truth and justice and that is why I have worked closely with them on this case on both sides of the Atlantic for more than three decades. They deserve to know what happened in February of 1989 and the level of state collusion into the murder of their husband and father. This letter is calling on the British government to be accountable.  

 The letter read, in part, We write to urge you to establish an independent public inquiry into state collusion in the murder of human rights attorney Patrick Finucane at his home in Belfast in front of his wife and children on February 12, 1989. Recent news reports state that, to comply with court orders, a decision will be made by November 30th. Establishing the independent judicial inquiry is in keeping with your government's commitments throughout the peace process and the public interest. Click here to read the letter.  

  In 2007, Smith and Neal also teamed up to introduce a House resolution Smith authored, H.Con.Res.20, Calling on the Government of the United Kingdom to immediately establish a full, independent, and public judicial inquiry into the murder of Northern Ireland defense attorney Patrick Finucane. The resolution, authored by Smith, passed 364-34 in the House, and unanimously in the Senate.  

  We are once again urging our friends in the British government to do what's right and we stand in solidarity with the Finucane family which has long sought the truth in the case and accountability for those responsible for this crime,"" said Smith who has had four resolutions pass the House urging the British to conduct the independent inquiry: 1999, 2002, 2006 and 2007.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-rutgers-university-will-receive-38-million-improve-covid-19,Pallone Announces Rutgers University will Receive $3.8 Million to Improve COVID-19 Testing in Underserved Communities,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Long Branch, NJ  Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced today that Rutgers University will receive $3.8 million to improve COVID-19 testing in underserved communities. The award is made possible by the National Institutes of Health's initiative to enhance COVID-19 testing of populations disproportionately affected by COVID-19, including African Americans, American Indians/Alaskan Natives, Latinos/Latinas, Native Hawaiians, older adults, pregnant women and those who are homeless or incarcerated. In New Jersey, Black and Latinx residents are three times as likely to contract COVID-19 and are twice as likely to die as a result of the virus.
While we have made progress to close racial and ethnic health disparities in recent years, people of color in America continue to experience disparities in care and worse health outcomes compared to white Americans. Unfortunately, we have clear evidence that communities of color have suffered disproportionately during the coronavirus pandemic, Pallone said. As new cases rise each day, it's important that everyone  regardless of where you live  has access to a COVID-19 test if they need one. We know that extensive testing is critical if we want to crush this pandemic and get people back to work and school safely. This funding will help us ensure that testing is distributed equitably across our state and is another step in making sure that we keep all Americans healthy and safe during this public health crisis.
With a RAdx-UP award, Rutgers and NJ ACTS will lead the way to improve COVID-19 testing in under-represented populations, said Reynold Panettieri, Vice Chancellor for Translational Medicine and Science at Rutgers University. This will assist in removing barriers to care for all New Jerseyans during this devastating pandemic.
As an academic institution committed to serve the New Jersey community and to make an impact in health care, this award will go a long way in fostering that goal and will bring help to the communities that need it the most, said Brian L. Strom, Chancellor of Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences and the Executive Vice President for Health Affairs at Rutgers University.
In June, Pallone's Energy and Commerce Committee held a hearing on racial and ethnic health disparities in COVID-19 pandemic and the health care system.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-leads-call-expand-covid-19-testing-sites-new-jersey,Pallone Leads Call to Expand COVID-19 Testing Sites In New Jersey,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Long Branch, NJ  Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today led a letter to President Trump asking him to provide New Jersey with the testing resources it needs to combat the rising number of COVID-19 cases. In writing to President Trump, the Democratic Members of the House of Representatives from New Jersey requested that the President re-open drive-through testing facilities operated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help contain the spread of COVID-19.
We write to once again convey the urgent need for federal resources in New Jersey to improve testing capacity. The coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) continues to reach record highs; case rates in November are surpassing even our highest rates from the spring, the lawmakers wrote. Despite the state's best efforts, the positivity rate for COVID-19 testing currently averages about 10 percent. As you know, experts suggest anything over a five percent positive testing rate requires urgent containment and mitigation efforts. However, containment and mitigation efforts rely on sufficient testing capacity to ensure that cases are being quickly identified and New Jersey is once again facing extended lines at testing locations and turn-around times for results becoming longer by the day. We are in agreement with medical and public health experts that rapid and robust testing is the key to driving down case rates and re-opening New Jersey's economy.
In April, FEMA opened two drive-through testing facilities in New Jersey that helped expand testing capacity. FEMA closed the testing sites in July, despite public pleas to keep them open. A copy of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-voices-opposition-private-residential-development-gateway-national,Pallone Voices Opposition to Private Residential Development at Gateway National Recreation Area,2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Long Branch, NJ  Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) spoke in opposition to the National Park Service's proposal to allow private residential development at Gateway National Recreation Area. During a virtual public forum hosted by the National Park Service, Pallone expressed his strong disapproval of private residential development and expressed deep concern that the proposed private development would threaten one of New Jersey's treasured landscapes. 
The wholesale conversion of public lands and facilities to private residential use would alter the nature of Sandy Hook and would be antithetical to the National Park Service's founding values and mission. Sandy Hook serves as an important place for my constituents and all who visit to learn about our nation's military history, recreate, and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings, Pallone said. I am deeply concerned that the National Park Service's plan would turn a significant portion of Sandy Hook into a place that only select permanent residents can enjoy. We must ensure that these places of beauty remain fully accessible to everyone.
In March, Pallone sent a letter to the Superintendent of Gateway National Recreation Area opposing proposed development of permanent residential units at Sandy Hook.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/washington-reviews/washington-review-november-23-2020,"Washington Review, November 23, 2020",2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"Last week, I joined the Congressional Labor Caucus, and cosponsored legislation to raise the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) monthly benefits, help ensure children do not go hungry during the pandemic, raise the Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2021, help students refinance their student loans, and ensure humane treatment of animals in any research and testing. I also signed onto letters to urge the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to combat the disproportionate amount of COVID-19 deaths in communities of color, extend the deadline for using CARES Act funding, include robust international humanitarian aid to assist countries dealing with COVID-19, and oppose the deportation of witnesses in forced hysterectomy cases.
Labor Caucus
Earlier last week, Rep. Donald Norcross (D-NJ) and Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI) formed the Congressional Labor Caucus. The goal for this caucus is to be the strongest pro-laborvoice in Congress and to connect union leaders and members directly with members of Congress and their staff. As the United States moves away from the failed policies of the Trump Administration, this caucus will prioritize the needs of working families and organized labor during the 117th Congress. Together with President-Elect Biden, this caucus will reprioritize the needs of organized labor in our legislative agenda, reverse the erosion of organizing rights, and support worker safety measures that meet the needs of workers in the 21st century. The labor community and hard-working Americans across the country make up the backbone of our great nation, it is imperative we prioritize a legislative agenda that works as hard for them as they do for our country.
Legislation
I became a cosponsor of H.R. 1368, the Closing the Meal Gap Act, introduced by Rep. Alma Adams (D-NC). This bill would help families put food on the table by modernizing and improving SNAP benefits to meet the needs of our current moment. The bill supports seniors and people with disabilities who face high medical costs by permanently authorizing the standard medical deduction in every state at a minimum of $140. Additionally, this bill also increases SNAP benefits by 30% to take into account the cost of nutritious foods and household needs. Further, the minimum SNAP benefit per month would be raised from $16 to $25. This will help to ease the burden on families living in areas with high rent and utility costs, and also provides relief for college students to earn an education by allowing full-time students who qualify for SNAP to be exempt from work requirements. The COVID-19 pandemic has made life tough for many Americans and we must ensure that every family is able to buy the food and supplies they need each month.
I also cosponsored H.R. 7887, the Pandemic Child Hunger Prevention Act, introduced by Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA). This legislation would make all students temporarily eligible for free school meals during the 2020-2021 school year through the School Breakfast Program and the National School Lunch Program. Thanks to the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, school meals will also be available to students during remote learning through grab and go and delivery programs. Additionally, all school districts can serve these free meals to children without having to certify the eligibility of each child. With cases of COVID-19 spiking across the country, and many schools switching back to remote learning because of this, it is crucial that every child have access to nutritious, free school meals.
Last Wednesday, I became a cosponsor of Rep. Peter Defazio's (D-OR) Emergency Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2021 Act. In 2021, the Cost of Living Adjustment for Social Security recipients is set to increase by only 1.3%, the lowest increase on record. With many Social Security recipients now in harder times due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this adjustment will not be enough to help people through 2021. The legislation would increase the Cost of Living Adjustment to 3% for 2021, ensuring beneficiaries have access to the funds they are entitled to, and have enough funds to feel secure in the coming year.
As many people know first-hand, student loans and the debt that comes with them is one of the biggest issues of this generation. That is why I signed onto H.R. 1899, the Student Loan Refinancing and Recalculation Act, introduced by Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA) and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA). This legislation would allow students to refinance their student loan interest rates, lower future student loan interest rates, eliminate origination fees on student loans, delay student loan interest rate accrual for low-income and middle class borrowers while they are pursuing their education, and allow for borrowers in medical or dental residencies to defer payments until the completion of their program. Student debt is a real problem in our country that needs concrete solutions. In New Jersey, just over one million borrowers hold trillions of dollars in student debt. This legislation will go a long way in allowing people to refinance their loans and keep more of their hard-earned money in their pockets.
I also cosponsored the Humane Research and Testing Act, H.R. 8633, introduced by Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-FL). This bipartisan bill will establish the National Center for Alternatives to Animals in Research and testing under the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This center would be focused on developing, promoting, and funding human-relevant, non-animal methods of research and testing. The bill would also provide funding to incentivize non-animal methods of research, educate and train scientists to utilize these methods, and establish research collaborations to mitigate a lack of resources.
Unfortunately, this week our nation passed the grim milestone of over 250,000 deaths from COVID-19. This is a tragedy and we have lost far too many lives to this deadly virus. I cosponsored a resolution led by Rep. Donald Payne (D-NJ) to establish a national day of mourning for those who have lost their lives to COVID-19. The resolution would establish January 21, 2021 as a national day of mourning for all those who have lost their lives to COVID-19. We must commemorate those who have lost their lives to this horrible virus and continue to work to mitigate the spread so we can save more lives.
I signed onto a bill by Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY) to designate temporary protected status to eligible Nicaraguans, Hondurans, and Guatemalans. Hurricanes Eta and Iota have impacted millions of people in Central America, deepening a humanitarian crisis in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Section 244 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) provides safe haven in very specific circumstances, including when there is a significant impact on living conditions as a result of natural disasters. As our nation has always been, we need to continue being a safe haven for those who are struggling with natural disasters and offer assistance to those around the world who need it.
Letters
Last Wednesday, I signed onto a letter led by Rep. Katherine Clark (D-MA) urging the CDC to combat disproportionate COVID-19 deaths in communities of color. New data has shown that in recent months, Latino and Hispanic populations have had a 54% increase in COVID related deaths, while African Americans have faced a 33% increase. These trends are unacceptable, and we need to be combatting the systematic racism that causes these excess and disproportionate deaths. The letter, addressed to CDC director Robert Redfield, urges the CDC to release more data on the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on communities of color. Additionally, the letter calls for the CDC to use this data to develop a health action plan that would reduce the disparities and excess deaths in communities of color.
I also signed onto a letter led by Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ) and Rep. Donald Payne (D-NJ) urging Congressional leadership to extend the deadline for using CARES Act funding. Currently, the deadline for municipalities to use CARES Act funding is set to expire on December 30, 2020. Without the extension, a large number of counties and local governments across the country will be forced to return millions in much needed funds. These funds can be used to support small businesses, expand COVID-19 testing, support mortgage assistance programs, and to help set up and support food banks for those in need. As millions across the country continue to be impacted by this pandemic, we need to make sure resources are available for assistance.
I joined Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) in sending a letter to the House Appropriations Committee requesting more funds for family aid across the globe. The letter calls for the Committee to include robust international aid as the fiscal year (FY) 2021 conference report for the State and Foreign Operations appropriations legislation moves forward. This pandemic has had a large economic blow to bout our country and the entire world. We need to provide much needed assistance for those in need across the globe so that they can be more secure as we continue to battle this virus.
I also signed onto a letter led by Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) to the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, and the Federal bureau of Investigation regarding the deportation of witnesses in forced hysterectomy cases. In September, reports emerged that unwanted, unnecessary medical procedures were performed on immigrant women without their consent at the Irwin County Detention Center in Georgia. There are now further reports that witnesses in the case are being deported by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This letter calls on officials to pause the deportation of these witnesses so that they can recount their stories. The letter also calls on officials to provide law enforcement certifications so that these impacted women may have the opportunity to seek visas. This shocking and disgusting practice that was unearthed earlier this year must not be ignored and victims should not be punished for coming forward.
I led a letter, along with Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX) for Mexico's Attorney General to ensure that the drug trafficking case against General Cienfuegos is thoroughly investigated and pursued to its conclusion, without interference. On October 15, 2020, Mexico's former Defense Secretary, General Salvador Cienfuegos, was arrested in Los Angeles on drug trafficking charges. According to documents presented by the U.S. Department of Justice, General Cienfuegos allegedly facilitated shipments of thousands of kilograms of cocaine and other drugs into the U.S. in exchange for bribes from cartels in Mexico. On November 17, 2020, U.S. Attorney General William Barr and Mexican Attorney General Alejandro Gertz released a joint statement explaining that the U.S. would dismiss its charges against Cienfuegos and that he would be returned to Mexico. The letter highlights how this case will be critical for the Mexican government in demonstrating its stated commitment to combating corruption.
Open Enrollment
On November 1, 2020, Open Enrollment for health care plans began in New Jersey. This year, instead of using the federal marketplace, New Jersey will switch to their own state-run marketplace. In order to browse health care plans you can visit: www.nj.gov/getcoverednj. Here you will be able to compare available plans, review financial assistance options, and select a plan that is best for you. This new marketplace is easy to use and helps to clearly identify plans that will be most beneficial to you. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial we leave no one behind and that everyone has access to affordable health care. If you need health care, be sure to visit the site. Open enrollment is open from November 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021.
With cases of COVID-19 continuing to rise across the country, and in New Jersey, it is imperative we remain vigilant and safe. Please continue to wear a mask in public and practice social distancing when possible. I wish everyone in the 8th District a happy and healthy Thanksgiving. Please exercise caution if meeting with loved ones and take necessary measures to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and our community. Working together, we can help slow the spread of this virus. Please know that I will continue working to get the 8th District the resources it needs. If you have questions or need assistance please call my Washington, D.C. office at (202)225-7919 and follow instructions to be connected to my staff or send an email to NJ8inquiries@mail.house.gov. Together we can get through this.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409052,"<span class =""kicker"">APP article on Monmouth parents of child w Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Smith trying to assist</span>'Manalapan charity wants to raffle car online; state says no'",2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"By Jerry Carino, Asbury Park Press staff, USA TODAY NETWORK 

  
Jim and Karen Raffone thought they had the perfect fundraiser for their charity, which sponsors major research on Duchenne muscular dystrophy: All American Ford in Old Bridge donated a 2020 Ford Mustang convertible for them to raffle off.
We thought we could raise $100,000, Jim Raffone said. We raised approximately $25,000 before we had to stop.
Then the office of New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal informed them they were in violation of the law.
Under existing New Jersey law remote and online raffles are not permitted, said Gema de las Heras, the Attorney General's office spokeswoman,in an email.""Our Division of Consumer Affairs has discussed several options with the family's representatives and stands ready to assist them and other nonprofits who seek to hold raffles find a path forward working within the existing law.""
My Cause MyCleats:NFL player wears cleats in ailing Manalapan boy's honor

PHOTO: Jamesy Raffone atop of dad Jim Raffone'sshoulders during a Jan of Hope event.

The Raffones, who live in Manalapan, were conducting the raffle online because of the gathering restrictions imposed by Gov. Phil Murphy during the coronavirus pandemic. The pandemic has grinded fundraising events to a halt for nonprofits across the state, threatening their survival in many cases.  

Every charity in New Jersey is not allowed to do what I'm fighting for, Raffone said. We can't even have an event inside. It's very, very difficult. We're looking to host a clinical trial by January and it's going to cost us $2 million. How do I get this $2 million?
The Raffones' nonprofit, JAR of Hope, was founded in 2013 after theirson James was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a degenerative condition that eventually results in total muscle failure. Patients seldom live past their 20s.Jamesy is now 11 years old and still walking.
We're keeping the disease at bay as much as possible, Jim Raffone said, but it's still doing what it wants to do.

PHOTO: Jamesy Raffone (left) with dad Jim Raffone.

Asbury Park fundraiser:Johnny Rzeznik, Jim Babjak, Joe Grushecky, more set for online Shine a Light  

Through the years JAR of Hope has aggressively fundraised for Duchenne research. Jim Raffone has run ultramarathons, rung the closing bell of the New York Stock Exchange, organized a world record-breaking Legochain, and enlisted the public support of pro football players. Last month he raised $165,000 by walking 260 miles from Washington, D.C. to Old Bridge.
Among those who greeted him at the finish line was his congressman, U.S. Rep. Chris Smith.
We've been working with him since 2014, Smith said via phone. He and his wife are such wonderful people.
  
  
Click here or on image above for photo slides show. On Wednesday Smith wrote a letter to Gov. Phil Murphy urging a waiver of the online raffle regulation for JAR of Hope and other nonprofits.
This should be right up his alley, Smith said of Murphy. During this crisis just about everything else that can be waived is waived, so why not just do it with an executive order? It'll help other very important charities, too.
Acknowledging the general concern about online raffles the drawing should be witnessed, to ensure its fairness Smith said safeguards can be be put into place so charlatans don't get involved.
De las Heras, of the attorney general's office, mentioned one possibility in her email to the Press.
The Legalized Games of Chance Control Commission (LGCCC) within the Division of Consumer Affairs understands that the public health emergency has affected nonprofit organizations and their ability to fundraise during the pandemic, she wrote. The LGCCC has been assisting nonprofit organizations identify alternatives to in-person events, such as live streaming video of the raffle drawings.
A live-streamed drawing would solvehalf the problem. The other half, the prohibition of online raffle ticket sales, continues to be an issue. It's hard to collect raffle tickets when gatherings are not allowed.


PHOTO: Rep. Chris Smith (right) with Jim and Karen Raffone at the end 
of Jim's 260-mile charity walk last month.


On Wednesday Murphy signaled a willingness to bend on the issue, signing a bill expanding charities' ability to sell raffle tickets online based around sporting events raffles that otherwise would have occurred in stadiums and arenas.
That does not help JAR of Hope, though, since no sporting event or stadium was involved. So at the moment Raffone has a Mustang valued at $46,000 and a stalled raffle.
Here in New Jersey, on any given day, millions of dollars can be bet online on professional football, horse racing, tennis, golf, college football, basketball, baseball and all other sports, Raffone's attorney James Aaron wrote in a letter to lawmakers. Even playing poker and other games of chance can be bet on with a simple turning on of the computer, yet a charity of this nature trying to save the life of a child and other children similarly situated, cannot take advantage of the internet and an online raffle.
Eligible organizations are encouraged to direct related questions to AskConsumerAffairs@dca.lps.state.nj.us. or call (973) 273-8000.
Jerry Carino is community columnist for the Asbury Park Press, focusing on the Jersey Shore's interesting people, inspiring stories and pressing issues.

On Wednesday Murphy signaled a willingness to bend on the issue, signing a bill expanding charities' ability to sell raffle tickets online based around sporting eventsraffles that otherwise would have occurredin stadiums and arenas.
That does not helpJAR of Hope, though, since no sporting event or stadium was involved. So at the moment Raffone has a Mustang valued at $46,000 and a stalled raffle. 



Here in New Jersey, on any given day, millions of dollars can be bet online on professional football, horse racing, tennis, golf, college football, basketball, baseball and all other sports, Raffone's attorney James Aaron wrote in a letter to lawmakers. Even playing poker and other games of chance can be bet on with a simple turning on of the computer, yet a charity of this nature trying to save the life of a child and other children similarly situated, cannot take advantage of the internet and an online raffle.



On Wednesday Murphy signaled a willingness to bend on the issue, signing a bill expanding charities' ability to sell raffle tickets online based around sporting eventsraffles that otherwise would have occurredin stadiums and arenas.
That does not helpJAR of Hope, though, since no sporting event or stadium was involved. So at the moment Raffone has a Mustang valued at $46,000 and a stalled raffle. 



Here in New Jersey, on any given day, millions of dollars can be bet online on professional football, horse racing, tennis, golf, college football, basketball, baseball and all other sports, Raffone's attorney James Aaron wrote in a letter to lawmakers. Even playing poker and other games of chance can be bet on with a simple turning on of the computer, yet a charity of this nature trying to save the life of a child and other children similarly situated, cannot take advantage of the internet and an online raffle.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/v,Norcross Applauds Passage of Bill to Expand Apprenticeship Training; Calls on Senate to Swiftly Pass,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC  Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) applauded the passage of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 through the House of Representatives. The legislation invests more than $3.5 billion to create nearly one million new apprenticeship opportunities over the next five years. Norcross is a lead sponsor and author of the bill along with his fellow House Education in Labor Committee members Congresswoman Susan Davis (CA-53) and Chairman Bobby Scott (VA-03).
The proposal marks a historic investment in workforce training as the nation continues to face record-level unemployment due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Norcross joins his colleagues in calling on the Senate to swiftly pass this National Apprenticeship Act and bring training and employment opportunities to Americans immediately.
A registered apprenticeship program shaped my life  laying the foundation for me to go from the construction site to Congress, said Congressman Norcross, the only electrician in Congress. This comprehensive bill provides students and workers all over the country the ability to pursue apprenticeship opportunities by strengthening the proven and successful models developed by the Registered Apprenticeship Program. Expanding access to apprenticeship opportunities will connect workers with stable, good-paying jobs and accelerate our economic recovery.
Norcross added: The Building Trades have created the gold standard' of the Registered Apprenticeship Program, and this legislation will expand that gold standard across all American industries. The National Apprenticeship Act is a vital investment in our most successful workforce training program where workers can earn while they learn, and I am pleased that five of my apprenticeship bills have been incorporated. Now, I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass this legislation and aide our economic recovery by supporting American workers and their futures.
Five pieces of Norcross' sponsored legislation were included in the House's passage of the bill:
 Apprenticeship Hubs Across America Act that Norcross introduced in 2019 alongside David McKinley (R-W.Va) and U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) establishes a new initiative to grow and expand highly successful Apprenticeship Hubs.
	21st Century Energy Workforce Act that Norcross introduced in 2017 with Congressman David McKinley (R-WV) directs the Department of Energy to incentivize training for skilled energy industry jobs.
	Offshore Wind Jobs and Opportunities Act that Norcross introduced in 2019 alongside Congressmen Bill Keating (D-MA) authorizes the Department of the Interior to award offshore wind career training grants to institutions of higher education and labor organizations to develop, offer or improve educational and career training programs that provide skills necessary for employment in the offshore wind industry.
	PATH Act that Norcross introduced in 2019 alongside Congressman David McKinley (R-WV) would provide grants to assist in the creation and sustenance of pre-apprenticeship programs that serve racial minorities, women, long-term unemployed individuals and people from impoverished census tracts.
	Fast Track Advanced Apprenticeships Now Act that Norcross introduced with Congressman Andy Kim (D-NJ) would help fast track apprenticeships for emerging, 21st Century jobs by reducing red tape for occupations to be considered for apprenticeship programs. This would allow small and medium sized employers to more easily start a new apprenticeship program.
 The fact sheet for the National Apprenticeship Act is available here.
A section-by-section of the National Apprenticeship act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-appointed-national-defense-conference-committee-0,Norcross Appointed to National Defense Conference Committee,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC  Last night, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01)  a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) and Chair of the Tactical Air and Land Forces (TAL) Subcommittee  was appointed to serve on the joint conference committee for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The conference committee is charged with producing a bicameral compromise on the Fiscal Year 2021 (FY21) defense policy bill.
We live in an uncertain world with persistent, credible threats to our nation and our democracy, so it's more important than ever that we support our men and women in uniform and ensure the readiness and modernization of our nation's armed forces while spending our valuable resources wisely, said Congressman Norcross. I thank Speaker Pelosi for entrusting me with this important role to help ensure our defense policy enhances our country's security, benefits our servicemembers and strengthens our bases. New Jersey and the Delaware Valley are home to a number of defense facilities and industries that provide high-tech jobs and play an important role in the security of the United States. On the joint committee, I will be working to support our missions at these facilities and working to develop strong, smart national security policy.
Norcross led efforts to ensure the KC-10 aircraft refueling tanker fleet is not retired prematurely, so the service men and women at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst can continue carrying out their critical missions as planned, while preparing for delivery of the new KC-46s.
Norcross added: As we work with our Senate counterparts, I am confident that we will build upon the good work spearheaded by HASC Chairman Adam Smith. By the end of the process, I look forward to a final product that keeps our military fully equipped, meets mission requirements and deters potential adversaries, while ensuring the Department of Defense's programs are fiscally responsible.
On July 21, Norcross voted in favor of the NDAA on the House Floor.
###
Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://payne.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-payne-jr-proposes-national-day-mourning-coronavirus-victims,"Rep. Payne, Jr. Proposes a National Day of Mourning for Coronavirus Victims",2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Media Contact: Patrick Wright  -- Patrick.Wright@mail.house.gov
Washington, D.C. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. introduced a House resolution today to declare January 21st, 2021 a National Day of Mourning for all the Americans who have died from the COVID-19 coronavirus. The day would include a moment of silence and ask President-Elect Joe Biden to issue an order for American flags to fly at half-staff in commemoration. 
Thousands of Americans have lost the chance to mourn their loved ones due to this coronavirus, said Congressman Payne, Jr. We need to commemorate these Americans as a show of unity for the entire country. Unfortunately, the coronavirus has taken away our ability to conduct the traditional funerals and other community services that help families and friends celebrate their deceased loved ones. But this day will serve to honor these Americans and give us a chance to mourn and grieve them as a nation.
The day will honor the more than 250,000 Americans who have died from coronavirus. In addition, the resolution highlights how the coronavirus has been far more deadly in minority communities. 
####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://payne.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-payne-jr-s-move-reimburse-schools-coronavirus-masks-passes-house,"Rep. Payne, Jr.s Move to Reimburse Schools for Coronavirus Masks Passes House",2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Media Contact: Patrick Wright  -- Patrick.Wright@mail.house.gov
Washington, D.C. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr.'s bill to reimburse schools for coronavirus emergency protective equipment passed the House this week as part of the FEMA Assistance Relief Act (H.R. 8266).
Congressman Payne, Jr.'s bill, the Masks for Students Act, would have required the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to continue to reimburse local K-12 schools nationwide for the masks purchased to protect in-school students during the coronavirus global pandemic. The new bill contains even stronger language to support schools and states that FEMA would not be able to reject any request for reimbursement from schools for coronavirus protective equipment. Both bills were reactions to the Trump administration's decision to stop FEMA from reimbursing schools after the decision to redefine masks as an operating expense instead of an emergency expense during the coronavirus global pandemic.
It does not make sense to tell schools to keep their students and employees safe and then not support them in that effort, said Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. They need all the help we can give them. I am pleased the House included the bill I introduced with my New Jersey colleague, Rep. Tom Malinowski, into the larger effort to use FEMA to protect our country. We are still in a national medical emergency and schools in New Jersey and nationwide should not be punished for keeping students and workers safe.
As COVID-19 cases continue to rise across the country, it is more important than ever that our childrenand teachersare equipped with the necessary PPE at school,said Rep. Malinowski.I was proud to join Rep. Payne,Jr. in leading this effort to ensure New Jersey schoolscan continue to be reimbursed for masks purchased during this crisis.
####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409053,"<span class =""kicker"">House passes Smith bill</span>Smith statement as House debates Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2020",2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"The following are excerpts of remarks by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) in the House of Representatives during debate on H.R. 8428, Belarus Democracy, Human Rights, and Sovereignty Act of 2020 on November 18, 2020:
 Madam Speaker, I urge swift enactment into law of the bipartisan Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2020 which I introduced.  

 And here's why this legislation is absolutely needed now.  

 Belarus was perhaps the nation most mired in its Soviet past, with an inefficient economy and a strongman autocrat in charge for over two-and-a-half decades. Yet the indomitable spirit of freedom stirred among the people of Belarus, and when a patently false election result was announced on August 9th declaring Alyaksandr Lukashenka the winner, the people took to the streets.  

 The OSCE Moscow Mechanism, reported November 5 that there is overwhelming evidence that Belarus's August 9 presidential election results were falsified and that systematic"" human rights violations have been committed by the country's security forces in response to the peaceful demonstrations the vote sparked.  

 Now, reports out of Belarus indicate that police are using increasingly violent tactics against these peaceful demonstrators.  

 The BBC summed it yesterday in an article Belarus protesters battered, bruised but defiant after 100 days which said in part:  

Opposition protesters remain defiant in Belarus despite police brutality, 100 days after they first took to the streets to denounce the re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko.  


Police in helmets and body armour throw women holding flowers and balloons into police vans. Officers tear-gas elderly people on a pensioners' march  

Yet every Sunday thousands still pour into the streets of the capital Minsk, condemning what they see as Mr Lukashenko's fraudulent 9 August victory  

Alesya, a 31-year old worker in the IT industry, regularly attends the Sunday rallies. On 15 November, however, things turned nasty very quickly. When she arrived at the square where the march was supposed to start, it was already packed with security forces. As more people gathered, officers fired stun grenades and started hitting people with batons to disperse the crowd.  

""They attacked us again and again. It was awful. They ferociously beat people, twisted their arms and took them away,"" she said.  

She ran away into courtyards following other protesters, but police in their minivans quickly caught up with them even there. She was saved by a stranger who hid her and several others in his house.  

""It felt like World War Two, when people tried to hide Jews from the Nazis. It was terrifying, we were shocked."" 
That march was called in memory of Roman Bondarenko, an activist who was beaten in detention and died in hospital last week.  

 Madame Speaker, the people of Belarusespecially the pro-democracy leadersdesperately need our help.  

 And they need it right now.  

 As my colleagues know, the leading opposition presidential candidate Svetlana Tsikhanouskaya who almost certainly won the election in Augustformed the Coordination Council.  

 The democratic opposition is united, smart, principled, tenacious and extraordinarily brave.  

 Ms. Tsikhanouskaya ran a courageous campaign but today is in exile in Lithuania where she continues to rally the Belarusian people and the world and demand democracy and human rights for all the people of her nation.
 Last night I read portions of the transcript of a hearing I chaired in 2011after another fraudulent Belarusian election. Then, as now, and on many other occasions, Lukashenka's bullies beat, jailed and assaulted peaceful protestors.  

 The big mistake of the pastfatigue or lack of commitment and perseverance by the international communitycan't be repeated this time.  

 (On two separate occasions, I met with Lukashenka in Minsk and came away resolved to accelerate the struggle for democracy and freedom.)  

 My bipartisan bill, H.R. 8438the Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2020updates, strengthens and expands the Belarus Democracy Acts of 2004, 2006, and 2011, laws that I also authored, and renews the personal economic and visa sanctions on an expanded list of actors in the Belarusian Government and Russian individuals complicit in the crackdown.  

 Yesterday, Svetlana Tsikhanouskaya, again called for the sanctions embedded in my bill. The time to act is now.  

 Among its many other provisions, the legislation:  

 Calls for new elections.  

 
    It recognizes the Coordination Council as a legitimate institution to participate in a dialogue on a peaceful transition of power.
    It calls for the release of all political prisoners.
    It supports the aspirations of the people of Belarus to exercise their religious freedom.
    It authorizes assistance to promote democracy and civil society in Belarus.
    It unequivocally states that it is the policy of the United States not to recognize any incorporation of Belarus into a Union State' with Russia.
    It requires a U.S. strategy to promote broadcasting, internet freedom and access to information.
    In addition, it gives much needed support to the Belarusian media, and to the IT sector. 
 
 By passing this bill today followed by approval in the Senate and signing into law by the President, we can not only reiterate but significantly expand our support and solidarity with the great people of Belarus. [Following debate, the Smith bill passed on Nov. 18, 2020 in a unanimous voice vote.]",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-kim-introduce-bill-advance-next-generation-apprenticeship,"Norcross, Kim Introduce Bill to Advance  Next-Generation Apprenticeship Programs",2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC  Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) and Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03) introduced H.R. 8762, the Fast Track Advanced Apprenticeships Now Act, a bill that would cut bureaucratic red tape to allow apprenticeship programs for emerging occupations to be approved faster.
A Registered Apprenticeship program shaped my life  laying the foundation for me to go from construction work to Congress, said Congressman Norcross. As the country continues to face an economic crisis and changing workforce, we must continue to innovate and ensure students and workers have the skills they need  and this bill will do just that. It will help develop apprenticeship programs to train workers with the skills they need to attain local, good-paying, emerging jobs. I urge my colleagues to join Rep. Kim and I in aiding our economic recovery by supporting American workers and their futures.
I've seen first-hand from labor unions across my district that Registered Apprenticeship programs are a clear path to a good-paying job and a strong middle class, said Congressman Kim. This bill would help create apprenticeship programs for the emerging jobs of the future, today. In the middle of an economic crisis, we can't leave any tools in the box. I look forward to seeing this bill taken up, and call on my colleagues to join me in supporting our working families and fast tracking proven advanced apprenticeship programs.
The Fast Track Advanced Apprenticeships Now Act, H.R. 8762, would help fast track apprenticeships for emerging, 21st Century jobs by reducing red tape for occupations to be considered for apprenticeship programs. This would allow small and medium sized employers to more easily start a newapprenticeshipprogram.
Norcross, a graduate of an IBEW Registered Apprenticeship and a member of the House Education and Labor Committee, recently introduced the Labor Caucus, dedicated to prioritizing the needs of working people and the labor movement in Congress. Norcross is a lead sponsor and author of the National Apprenticeship Act, which includes the Fast Track Advanced Apprenticeships Now Act, as well as four additional pieces of Norcross' sponsored legislation: the Apprenticeship Hubs Across America Act, the 21st Century Energy Workforce Act, the Offshore Wind Jobs and Opportunities Act and the PATH Act. Previously, Norcross and Kim introduced the Bringing Registered Apprenticeships to Veterans Education (BRAVE) Act  a bill that aims to educate veterans about registered apprenticeship programs and help their overall transition back into civilian life.
Congressman Kim has been a vocal leader in working with local unions to create economic opportunities for working families. Earlier this year, Congressman Kim introduced and passed through the House the Put Our Neighbors to Work Act, which would create more opportunities for local hiring from military construction projects. Congressman Kim also helped introduce the Bringing Registered Apprenticeships to Veterans Education (BRAVE) Act. More information about Congressman Kim can be found on his website byclicking here.
###
Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressional-armenian-caucus-calls-trump-administration-play-active-role,Congressional Armenian Caucus Calls on Trump Administration to Play an Active Role in Artsakh Peace Process,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC  Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Congressman Adam Schiff (CA-28), and Congresswoman Jackie Speier (CA-14) today called on the Trump Administration to play an active role in the equitable, long-term solution to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. In the letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, the Co-Chairs call on the Trump Administration to develop a comprehensive strategy that manages both the resulting humanitarian crisis and holds Azerbaijan and Turkey accountable for their role in the conflict.
We write to express our deep concern about the humanitarian crisis that has unfolded in Nagorno Karabakh (Artsakh) since Azerbaijan and Turkey first initiated the conflict on September 27, 2020. While a trilateral ceasefire paused the fighting on November 10, we believe the United States must play an active role to help determine an equitable, long-term solution to this conflict, the lawmakers wrote. We strongly urge the Department of State to rapidly implement a comprehensive strategy that simultaneously addresses the humanitarian needs of Armenians displaced by the recent fighting and holds Azerbaijan and Turkey accountable for their actions that led to the needless death of thousands of Armenians.
Specifically, the letter calls on the Trump Administration to:
 Reengage in the Organization for the Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group process.
	Help Artsakh rebuild their communities without fear of further bloodshed and recognize Artsakh's right to self-determination.
	Use every available diplomatic tool to penalize Turkey for its aggression and abhorrent human rights abuses, including the imposition of sanctions or withholding aid to deter Azerbaijan from escalating threats of violence.
	Ensure that displaced Armenian civilians can return to their homes and provide significant humanitarian aid and assistance in clearing unexploded munitions.
	Strengthen the relationship between the United States and Armenia by improving ties to benefit Armenia's young democracy and the large Armenian-American diaspora in the United States.
 A copy of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-winners-2020-congressional-app-challenge,Pallone Announces Winners of 2020 Congressional App Challenge,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"New Brunswick, NJ - Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced the winners of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge for high school and middle school students in New Jersey's 6th Congressional District. Samay Nandwana from Princeton Day School and Ansh Bhatti and Aditya Shelke from Middlesex County Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Technologies won this year's competition. Their app DataMeet uses facial recognition technology to notify teachers if students appear confused, happy, or sad during online instruction.
DataMeet performs real-time analysis of students' webcams and transfers the students' emotional data into a dashboard using different metrics, so that educators can track understanding in real-time and tailor instruction based on the feedback. The app will use machine learning to analyze the faces in a class, checking to see if students understand the lesson. The platform will then transmit this data to the teacher.
The Congressional App Challenge is an important platform for students to showcase their technical and creative skills, said Pallone. I congratulate Samay, Ansh, and Aditya for their winning app and applaud all of this year's participants for their creativity. I continue to be impressed by the ingenuity displayed by the winning teams each year and would like to thank the judges for their engagement and attention to this year's contest. The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted the immense challenges associated with distance learning. This app could truly help educators use real-time data to improve instruction and ensure that students are maximizing their potential. As the Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I have seen how critical innovative technology is in creating new industries and opportunities for all Americans. I will continue to support investments in STEM education in New Jersey and across the country.
The Congressional App Challenge is an annual competition that highlights the value of computer science and STEM education by encouraging high school students to learn how to code through the creation of their own apps. Entries in New Jersey's 6th Congressional District were assessed by a panel of local experts on several criteria, including demonstrated knowledge of coding and programming skills as well as the quality and implementation of their ideas.
As the winning app in the contest, ""DataMeet"" will be displayed on the Congressional App Challenge Website and on a digital display in the Capitol Building next year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409045,"Smith statement on the Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act being debated by the House",2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"The following are excerpts of remarks by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) in the House of Representatives for debate on H.R. 8428,The Belarus Democracy, Human Rights, andSovereignty Act of 2020 onNovember 18, 2020:
Madam Speaker, I urge swift enactment into law of the bipartisan Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2020 which I introduced.
 And here's why this legislation is absolutely needed now.
 Belarus was perhaps the nation most mired in its Soviet past, with an inefficient economy and a strongman autocrat in charge for over two-and-a-half decades. Yet the indomitable spirit of freedom stirred among the people of Belarus, and when a patently false election result was announced on August 9th declaring Alyaksandr Lukashenka the winner, the people took to the streets.
 The OSCE Moscow Mechanism, reported November 5 that there is overwhelming evidence that Belarus's August 9 presidential election results were falsified and that systematic"" human rights violations have been committed by the country's security forces in response to the peaceful demonstrations the vote sparked.
 Now, reports out of Belarus indicate that police are using increasingly violent tactics against these peaceful demonstrators.
 The BBC summed it yesterday in an article Belarus protesters battered, bruised but defiant after 100 days which said in part:
Opposition protesters remain defiant in Belarus despite police brutality, 100 days after they first took to the streets to denounce the re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko.
Police in helmets and body armour throw women holding flowers and balloons into police vans. Officers tear-gas elderly people on a pensioners' march 
Yet every Sunday thousands still pour into the streets of the capital Minsk, condemning what they see as Mr Lukashenko's fraudulent 9 August victory
Alesya, a 31-year old worker in the IT industry, regularly attends the Sunday rallies. On 15 November, however, things turned nasty very quickly. 
When she arrived at the square where the march was supposed to start, it was already packed with security forces. As more people gathered, officers fired stun grenades and started hitting people with batons to disperse the crowd. 
""They attacked us again and again. It was awful. They ferociously beat people, twisted their arms and took them away,"" she said. 
She ran away into courtyards following other protesters, but police in their minivans quickly caught up with them even there. She was saved by a stranger who hid her and several others in his house.
""It felt like World War Two, when people tried to hide Jews from the Nazis. It was terrifying, we were shocked."" 
That march was called in memory of Roman Bondarenko, an activist who was beaten in detention and died in hospital last week.

 I reiterate Secretary of State Michael Pompeo's November 12 appeal to Lukashenka: We once again call on the Belarusian authorities to immediately cease the escalating use of violence against peaceful demonstrators... .
 Madame Speaker, the people of Belarusespecially the pro-democracy leadersdesperately need our help. 
 And they need it right now.
 As my colleagues know, the leading opposition presidential candidate Svetlana Tsikhanouskaya who almost certainly won the election in Augustformed the Coordination Council. 
 The democratic opposition is united, smart, principled, tenacious and extraordinarily brave.
Ms. Tsikhanouskaya ran a courageous campaign but today is in exile in Lithuania where she continues to rally the Belarusian people and the world and demand democracy and human rights for all the people of her nation.
 Last night I read portions of the transcript of a hearing I chaired in 2011after another fraudulent Belarusian election. Then, as now, and on many other occasions, Lukashenka's bullies beat, jailed and assaulted peaceful protestors.
 The big mistake of the pastfatigue or lack of commitment and perseverance by the international communitycan't be repeated this time.
 (On two separate occasions, I met with Lukashenka in Minsk and came away resolved to accelerate the struggle for democracy and freedom.)
 My bipartisan bill, H.R. 8438the Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2020updates, strengthens and expands the Belarus Democracy Acts of 2004, 2006, and 2011, laws that I also authored, and renews the personal economic and visa sanctions on an expanded list of actors in the Belarusian Government and Russian individuals complicit in the crackdown.
 Yesterday, Svetlana Tsikhanouskaya again called for the sanctions embedded in my bill. The time to act is now.
 Among its many other provisions, the legislation:
 Calls for new elections. 
 It recognizes the Coordination Council as a legitimate institution to participate in a dialogue on a peaceful transition of power.
 It calls for the release of all political prisoners.
 It supports the aspirations of the people of Belarus to exercise their religious freedom.
 It authorizes assistance to promote democracy and civil society in Belarus.
 It unequivocally states that it is the policy of the United States not to recognize any incorporation of Belarus into a Union State' with Russia.
 It requires a U.S. strategy to promote broadcasting, internet freedom and access to information.
 In addition, it gives much needed support to the Belarusian media, and to the IT sector. 
 By passing this bill today followed by approval in the Senate and signing into law by the President, we can not only reiterate but significantly expand our support and solidarity with the great people of Belarus.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/labor-caucus-fighting-worker-funding-federal-budget,Labor Caucus Fighting for Worker Funding in Federal Budget,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DCCongressmen Donald Norcross (D-NJ) and Mark Pocan (D-WI) are leading a letter this week to Congressional leadership requesting they include funding for key federal programs that implement and enforce worker safety measures, protect workers' rights to organize, and provide access to employer and employee training  especially registered apprenticeships  in any final appropriations package for the 2021 fiscal year. The measures outlined in the letter were already included in the House-passed appropriations package but excluded from the Senate package detailed this week. In less than a week, over 40 members of Congress have joined the Labor Caucus, dedicated to centralizing the needs of working people and the labor movement in Congress.
How we invest our nation's funding is a reflection of our priorities, and as we continue to battle the coronavirus, we must prioritize the health and safety of American workers and families, said Congressman Norcross. It's more urgent than ever to implement enforceable standards to protect employers, employees and customers in the workplace, in addition to expanding access to retraining and registered apprenticeship programs that will connect workers with stable, good-paying jobs. These commonsense measures are what our economy needs, and what our kids and families deserve.
For months the Senate GOP has stalled on passing a budget, and when they finally put one together it cuts federal funding to protect and support workers, said Congressman Pocan. In the middle of a pandemic that has left millions unemployed at no fault of their own and put thousands of frontline workers in danger without adequate protections, we cannot turn our back on American workers. A budget reflects our values and Congress exists to serve the peoplenot corporate interests.
Full text of the letter follows and can be downloaded here.
The Hon. Nancy Pelosi
	Speaker
	U.S. House of Representatives 
The Hon. Nita Lowey
	Chairwoman
	House Appropriations Committee 
The Hon. Mitch McConnell
	Majority Leader
	U.S. Senate
The Hon. Richard Shelby
	Chairman
	Senate Appropriations Committee
Dear Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader McConnell, Chairwoman Lowey, and Chairman Shelby: 
We write to you in strong support of America's workers and urge you to keep their needs in mind as you continue to negotiate final fiscal year 2021 omnibus appropriations legislation, particularly as the ongoing coronavirus pandemic worsens. Federal programs that implement and enforce worker safety measures, protect workers' rights to organize, and provide access to employer and employee training  especially registered apprenticeships  are desperately needed. In this moment of need for workers across the nation, we encourage you to support the following provisions, included in House-passed H.R. 7617, in any final appropriations package for the coming fiscal year:
 Prohibit federal agencies from imposing new union contracts not agreed to through good-faith collective bargaining negotiations.
	Block regulation implementation that prevents unionized home health workers from using payroll deductions to pay union dues.
	Prohibit Department of Labor and National Labor Relation Board rules that indemnify corporations for wage and working condition violations of franchisees and contractors.
	Prohibit implementation of any rule that would privatize job search functions and other essential services offered through the Employment Service System.
	Not less than $12.7 billion in discretionary appropriations for the Department of Labor (an increase of $254 million above FY20 and $1.6 billion above the President's request), including not less than:
		$10.2 billion for the Employment and Training Administration (an increase of $187 million above FY20 and $1.5 billion above the President's request), including not less than:
				$2.9 billion for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act State Grants
					$2.6 billion for operation of the Unemployment Insurance Program
					$1.76 billion for Job Corps
					$410 million for the Senior Community Service Employment for Older Americans Program
					$185 million for Registered Apprenticeships
					$101 million for YouthBuild
					$50 million to expand Strengthening Community College Training Grants
					$78 million for Foreign Labor Certification
				
			$1.7 billion for Worker Protection Agencies, including not less than:
				$594 million for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration
					$246 million for the Wage and Hour Division.
				
			$15 million for the Women's Bureau (an increase of $1 million above FY20 and$12 million above the President's request).
			$58 million for the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (an increase of $3 million above FY20 and the President's request).
		
 We thank you for your consideration of these requests, and for your continued support of America's workers and organized labor. 
Sincerely,
Rep. Mark Pocan Rep. Donald Norcross
Co-Chair Co-Chair
Labor Caucus Labor Caucus
###
Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-applauds-passage-bipartisan-opioid-task-force-backed-bills,Norcross Applauds Passage of Bipartisan Opioid Task Force-Backed Bills,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC  Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 2466, the State Opioid Response Grant Authorization Act of 2020, H.R. 2281, the Easy MAT for Opioid Addiction Act and H.R. 3878, the Block, Report, and Suspend Shipments Act of 2020. These proposals are part of the Bipartisan Opioid Task Force's 2020 Legislative Agenda, which was unveiled in February. The bills authorize grants to states and tribal organizations to increase access to prevention, treatment and recovery for opioid use disorder, revise regulations to allow practitioners to more easily treat patients dealing with acute withdrawal symptoms and require drug manufacturers and distributors to stop suspicious shipments of controlled substances.
As America continues to battle a public health crisis and economic crisis, the opioid epidemic continues to claim American lives every day, said Rep. Norcross (NJ-01), Vice-Chair of the Bipartisan Opioid Task Force. Addiction has impacted far too many families, and these bills will help combat the opioid epidemic by providing states with resources to fund new research and projects, while continuing the vital work being done to help those impacted by addiction and save lives. While we're taking a positive step forward today, we must continue working on solutions, increasing mental health and addiction funding and safeguarding health coverage for people with pre-existing conditions because one preventable death is too many.
During the COVID-19 pandemic we have seen the need for increased efforts to address the substance misuse and opioid epidemic, said Rep. Kuster (NH-02), Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Opioid Task Force. As the founder and Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Opioid Task Force, I've focused on bringing together Republicans and Democrats to drive congressional action to respond to the substance abuse crisis that has devastated communities in New Hampshire and across the country. Today's passage of these bills from our Task Force's agenda will help ensure those who are struggling with addiction can get the care and support they need and prevent the distribution of illicit narcotics. I urge the Senate to act immediately on these important measures, and I will continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to combat this epidemic and keep Americans safe.
Pennsylvania has been overwhelmed by the opioid epidemic, and we need to work together to ensure that more Americans can receive life-saving care, said Rep. Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Opioid Task Force. All three of these bills were key parts of the Task Force's 2020 Legislative Agenda, and will help those struggling with addiction and make it easier for patients to receive treatment. Our constituents need treatment for addiction, and I will continue to fight on their behalf.
  
	The Bipartisan Opioid Task Force has been an effective driver of legislative solutions to take on the opioid epidemic. Several bills in the Task Force's 2018 legislative agenda including the VA Prescription Data Accountability Act, the STOP Fentanyl Deaths Act, and the INTERDICT Act have been signed into law.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-sherrill-statement-passing-bill-morelli,"Norcross, Sherrill Statement on Passing of Bill Morelli",2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"CHERRY HILL, NJ New Jersey Representatives Donald Norcross (NJ-01) and Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) released the following statements honoring the life and service of Picatinny Enhancement Coalition (PEC) board member Bill Morelli:
My heart is broken over the sudden passing of my friend William Morelli, said Congressman Norcross. Bill was a tireless advocate for New Jersey's military installations, including Picatinny Arsenal where he worked for many years. His years of dedication and service will leave a lasting legacy not only for Picatinny, but for all of our armed services. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Morelli family during this difficult time.
I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Bill Morelli, said CongresswomanSherrill. Bill's lifetime of service to the Army and the depth of his dedication to Picatinny Arsenal were an example to so many. I and my colleagues on the House Armed Services Committee were so grateful for his expertise and his advice. Bill was a tireless advocate for New Jersey's defense community and small businesses, and a fierce supporter of our veterans. My heart is with his family, his friends and his colleagues on the PEC. He will be sorely missed.
Mr. Morelli was the President of the SAVIT Corporation, a small business based in Rockaway, New Jersey. Over the course of his career, he was a force for innovation, efficiency and a tireless supporter of the mission of Picatinny Arsenal.
###
Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://payne.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-payne-jr-wants-give-new-jersey-more-time-use-cares-act-funds,"Rep. Payne, Jr. Wants to Give New Jersey More Time to Use CARES Act Funds",2020-11-16,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Media Contact: Patrick Wright  -- Patrick.Wright@mail.house.gov
Washington, D.C. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. wants to allow states, such as New Jersey, more time to use coronavirus funds to protect Americans. The Congressman sent a letter today to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to request an extension of the current December 31, 2020 deadline so that states and localities can use CARES Act funding into the next year. With coronavirus cases increasing nationwide, states need the extension to provide future medical and financial security to American citizens, families and small businesses. States and localities could be forced to return the funds if the deadline is not extended. 
The coronavirus has proven it is not going away soon and states need this money to combat it, said Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. They need it for a variety of things that help Americans survive this public health crisis, such as sanitizing public buildings, expanding coronavirus testing sites, supplementing emergency food banks, and protecting small business leasing programs. I know the CARES Act stimulus aid has been a vital lifeline for local governments nationwide and they need more time to use these funds.
The letter has 10 co-signers from the New Jersey delegation and it is listed below.
####
The Honorable Nancy Pelosi The Honorable Mitch McConnell
Speaker  Majority Leader
U.S. House of Representatives U.S. Senate
H-232, U.S. Capitol S-230, U.S. Capitol
Washington, D.C. 20515 Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Speaker Pelosi and Leader McConnell:
We write to urge you to extend the time frame for states to use funds under the CARES Act beyond the current December 30, 2020 statutory deadline. Without an extension, counties will be forced to return millions in CARES grants that could otherwise help the people who need it the most.
Counties and states have aggressively used their CARES funding to support people and small businesses during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. From sanitizing public buildings to expanding COVID-19 testing sites, supplementing emergency food banks, and expanding small business leasing programs, the CARES funding has been a vital lifeline for local governments nationwide.
We respectfully urge you to ensure that states and local governments can continue to access these funds. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to rage, and we are on the precipice of a long, dark winter as cases increase and continue to strain both public health infrastructure and small businesses. There are now over 9.6 million infections, with cases rising at near 100,000 new cases per day. Eight million people have fallen into poverty since the pandemic began, and there are 17 million children who are now food insecure.
Extending the deadline for state and local governments to use CARES funding is a common-sense solution that would ensure that health, safety, and recovery programs are available during what is expected to be a season of increasing COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,
Donald M. Payne, Jr. Mikie Sherrill
Member of Congress Member of Congress

Andy Kim Donald Norcross
Member of Congress Member of Congress

Bill Pascrell, Jr. Frank Pallone, Jr.
Member of Congress Member of Congress

Bonnie Watson Coleman Albio Sires
Member of Congress Member of Congress

Tom Malinowski Josh Gottheimer
Member of Congress Member of Congress

Christopher H. Smith
Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/washington-reviews/washington-review-november-14-2020,"Washington Review, November 14, 2020",2020-11-14,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"This week, I wrote an op-ed about the future of the Gateway Project, including the Hudson Tunnel Project, and its significance to the 8th District. I cosponsored legislation to protect the rights of students with disabilities, and to protect students from sexual abuse in schools. I also signed onto a letter to promote colorectal cancer screening and spoke with Colombian President Ivan Duque on the phone.
Op-Ed
On Thursday, I wrote an op-ed about the Gateway Project, outlining the path forward and reiterating its importance. For years I have been a champion of the project, because it is crucial for the Northeast Corridor, the entire economy of the northeastern U.S., and the transportation of people to and from their jobs daily. Unfortunately, the current Administration did not take the Gateway Project seriously. They blocked funding for personal political reasons and did not treat the potential consequences of not restoring the tunnels with the seriousness it deserves. Thankfully, the Project has a clear path forward now. During the 116th Congress, as part of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I secured a provision in H.R. 2 that would provide $10 billion in funding for Projects of National and Regional Significance, such as Gateway. I also worked for provisions in that bill that would make the Gateway Project part of a broad nationwide climate resilience effort. Now that there is a President-Elect who understands the seriousness of our nation's infrastructure, and the importance of the Gateway Project to the entire Northeast Corridor. I look forward to working with the incoming Administration on advancing the project. You can read my op-ed here.
Legislation
I cosponsored H.R. 8187, the Protection and Advocacy in Education Act, introduced by Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA). This legislation would help to ensure the rights of students with disabilities are upheld by providing Protection and Advocacy Systems (P&amp;As) direct funding for their education work. The P&amp;A system is a congressionally mandated, state-implemented program that provides legal and advocacy support to people with disabilities to help them gain access to health care, employment, housing, transportation, financial benefits, and education to protect them from abuse and neglect. While 30% of P&amp;A cases are focused on individuals with disabilities in education settings, there is currently no dedicated funding for education P&amp;A work. This bill would help fix that loophole and ensure that students with disabilities have the proper resources they need to protect themselves.
I also cosponsored H.R. 8396, Jenna Quinn Law, introduced by Rep. Susan Wild (D-PA). This bill would authorize federal grants to eligible entities for increasing evidence-based training on sexual abuse prevention education and reporting to teachers, school employees, students, caregivers, and other adults who work with children. The bill would also ensure these grant recipients coordinate with local educational agencies to train student, professionals, and volunteers who work with students on sexual abuse prevention, recognition, and reporting. Education is a crucial part of any childhood and we need to ensure that our children are safe in school.
Letters
Recently, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a draft national coverage determination to deny Medicare coverage for blood-based colorectal cancer screening tests. That is why I signed onto a letter led by Rep. Donald Payne (D-NJ) addressed to CMS urging the agency to reverse their decision and ensure that blood-based colorectal cancer screenings are covered by Medicare. Colorectal cancer is the third leading cancer related death in the United States and is also the third most common type of cancer in men and women. With this cancer having such a prevalent grasp in our society we need to be giving people access to screenings so they can check on the status of their own health. Blocking access to these screenings through Medicare, in the midst of a global pandemic, illustrates the lack of seriousness the current Administration gives to our nation's health.
Call with President Ivan Duque
On Thursday, I spoke with Colombian President Ivan Duque to reinforce the strong bilateral relationship between the United States and Colombia. President Duque and I reaffirmed our commitment to maintaining a close, collaborative, and mutually beneficial partnership. Additionally, we discussed the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in both countries, Colombia's ongoing efforts to expand it's state presence into rural areas of the country, and the need for continued regional and global cooperation to address the ongoing political and humanitarian crisis in Venezuela. Now more than ever it is crucial that we remain engaged with our neighbors.
Open Enrollment
On November 1, 2020, Open Enrollment for health care plans began in New Jersey. This year, instead of using the federal marketplace, New Jersey will switch to their own state-run marketplace. In order to browse health care plans you can visit: www.nj.gov/getcoverednj. Here you will be able to compare available plans, review financial assistance options, and select a plan that is best for you. This new marketplace is easy to use and helps to clearly identify plans that will be most beneficial to you. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial we leave no one behind and that everyone has access to affordable health care. If you need health care, be sure to visit the site. Open enrollment is open from November 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021.
With cases of COVID-19 continuing to rise across the country, it is imperative we remain vigilant and safe. Please continue to wear a mask in public and practice social distancing when possible. Working together, we can help slow the spread of this virus. Please know that I will continue working to get the 8th District the resources it needs. If you have questions or need assistance please call my Washington, D.C. office at (202)225-7919 and follow instructions to be connected to my staff or send an email to NJ8inquiries@mail.house.gov. Together we can get through this.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-joins-american-training-center-cooper-university-health-care,"Norcross Joins American Training Center, Cooper University Health Care, DOL Officials for National Apprenticeship Week",2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"CAMDEN, NJ  On Thursday, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) joined American Training Center, Cooper University Health Care and New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development officials virtually to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week and the induction of the first Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) Apprenticeship class in South Jersey.
A registered apprenticeship program laid the foundation for me to go from construction work to Congress, said Congressman Norcross, the only electrician in Congress. American Training Center's innovative programs provide students and workers the ability to pursue apprenticeship opportunities right here in South Jersey. These opportunities, including the new Medical Assistant Apprenticeship in partnership with Cooper University Health Care, train New Jersey's highly-skilled workforce, connect local workers with stable, good-paying jobs and accelerate our economic recovery.
I have had the privilege to begin to get to know this first cohort, and they are a remarkable group of women who have stories of strength and courage, said American Training Center President and Workforce Consultant Kim Rommen during the ceremony. They were selected from a group of over 50 applicants, and they've already demonstrated an incredible level of ambition and determination to improve themselves and grow their careers, even during the hard times of a pandemic.
Cooper is thrilled to be the first employer in NJ to support the Medical Assistant Apprenticeship, said Jennifer Moughan, Cooper University Health Care AVP of Human Resources. We are beyond proud. The Apprentices, in this cohort, will be integral to the Cooper Health Care team - during their apprenticeship and in their future roles as Medical Assistants. Thank you to all of the partners who made this possible.
Apprenticeships build a pipeline of skilled workers and create a built-in model for succession planning, NJ DOL Commissioner Rob Asaro-Angelo said at the event. We know this model works, and there is almost no industry sector that can't benefit from apprenticeships. It also opens the door for federal and state resources because we know that investing in a stronger, fairer economy is good for everyone.
In September, Norcross voted to advance the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020, legislation that invests more than $3.5 billion to create nearly one million new apprenticeship opportunities over the next five years, through the House Education and Labor Committee. Norcross is a lead sponsor and author of the bill, which would make a historic investment in workforce training as the nation continues to face record-level unemployment due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Four pieces of Norcross' sponsored legislation were included in the Committee's passage of the bill, including the Apprenticeship Hubs Across America Act, the 21st Century Energy Workforce Act, the Offshore Wind Jobs and Opportunities Act and the PATH Act.
###
Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-pocan-announce-labor-caucus,"Norcross, Pocan Announce Labor Caucus",2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressmen Donald Norcross (D-NJ) and Mark Pocan (D-WI) are announcing the creation of the Labor Caucus, intended to advance the needs of the labor movement, combat the issues facing working families and connect legislators directly with unions and union leaders. The new caucus will be organized by union members of Congress  Representatives Norcross and Pocan are both decades-long union members in the International Brotherhood of Electric Workers and International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, respectively.
Labor has shaped my life, taking me from the construction site to Congress, said Congressman Norcross. While the Trump Administration has tried to diminish labor rights, President-Elect Joe Biden's incoming Administration understands the dignity of work and that workers' rights are human rights. Every American worker should have the opportunity to earn a fair day's wage for a fair day's work, and working families deserve a bigger voice in Congress. I look forward to working together with our brothers and sisters in Labor to pass legislation for American workers and their futures.
President-Elect Joe Biden's new administration gives the Democratic Party the opportunity to reprioritize working families at the center of our legislative agenda, said Congressman Pocan. Under Donald Trump, we've seen the erosion of labor rights, rise in union-busting and the prioritization of corporate profits over working people's livelihoods and safety. In the 117th Congress, we must reaffirm our dedication to strengthening unions and helping workers by urgently passing legislation like the PRO Act and the Raise the Wage Act. It's time for working people to have a voice in Congress again.
It is absolutely imperative that we return this country back into the hands of working people and the Labor Caucus will do just that, said Shane Larson, Senior Director for Government Affairs and Policy at the Communications Workers of America. Congressmen Pocan and Norcross are card-carrying union members and we are proud to support their efforts to prioritize workers' rights and the labor movement in Congress. The Democratic Party has long been the party of unions and working families, and the Labor Caucus will ensure that legacy endures in every Congress to come.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409043,Statement on Chinese Gov't removal of four elected pro-democracy Hong Kong lawmakers,2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), author of the House-passed Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, said: the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) forced removal of four duly elected pro-democracy lawmakers from Hong Kong's Legislative Council is outrageous, unjustified and absolutely dishonorable and tells the world that human rights and the rule of law are a cruel joke under the dictatorship of Xi Jinping.
Smith continued, Today's mass resignation of all the remaining pro-democracy lawmakers to protest Beijing's iron fist policies toward Hong Kong and the lawmakers deserves the deepest respect, support and admiration of everyone who cherishes freedom. The entire free worldnot just a few nations like the United Statesmust sanction Beijing and hold the CCP to account.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409042,"<span class =""kicker"">On Veterans Day, Smiths 15th veterans law goes to White House  VFW, Sierra Club praise Smith bill</span>Smiths outdoor therapy vets bill clears Senate",2020-11-11,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"On the eve of the Veterans' Day holiday, legislation authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to help veterans heal through outdoor recreational therapy cleared the Senate and was on its way to the President's desk for signing and implementation.
 Smith's bipartisan Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act (H.R. 2435), which was endorsed by more than 120 veteran service organizations, outdoor recreation groups and conservation organizations, will provide increased access to federal lands for the purposes of veterans' medical recovery therapy.Smith's billcosponsored by 135 bipartisan lawmakerswas included in a package of veterans' legislation, The Veterans' COMPACT Act (H.R. 8247), which passed the House of Representatives in September and was approved by the Senate late last night.
 Research has increasingly shown that outdoor recreation can be an effective form of treatment, rehabilitation and healing for veterans, said Smith, author of the Veterans Health Programs Improvement Act (P.L. 108-422), and 13 other veterans laws.
 While many nonprofit organizations, veteran service organizations and private companies have used the outdoors to help heroes heal, providing greater coordination among key federal agencies will open new opportunities for veterans on public lands and other outdoor spaces, said Smith, who has twice served as chair of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee.
 The new law will require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an interagency task force on the use of public lands to provide medical treatment and therapy to veterans through outdoor recreation. After undertaking a comprehensive analysis, the task force will submit recommendations to Congress, within one year, on how to eliminate barriers and provide more public outdoor space for use by our veterans. Click here to watch Chris Smith's remarks on the House Floor.
Nearly 75 years ago, Congress passed and President Eisenhower signed a law changing Nov. 11 from Armistice Day to Veterans Day, Smith said. It's a day for us all to recall those who've served, those who didn't come home and those who came back with the scars of war who need help to heal. That's what this bill is all about, and it is especially fitting that today, on Veterans Day 2020, this bill is heading to the White House to be signed into law.
 Veterans and environmental groups praised the bill upon House passage and pushed for Senate approval as well.
 Said New Jersey VFW State Legislative Director William F. Thomson: Congratulations to Chris Smith on another important piece of veteran legislation. Congressman Smith has been a three-time recipient of the New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars Legislator of the Year award and National Veterans of Foreign Wars Legislator of the Year award. He has always shown that veterans are important to him and our nations. He is one of the New Jersey Veterans best friends in Congress.
 Said Jeff Tittel, Director of the New Jersey Sierra Club, For the people who have given their all for this country, we need to do all we can to help them. That includes access to National Parks and outdoor activities. The outdoors experience has restorative powers, whether you are hiking, mountain biking, camping, or communing with nature. It helps to inspire us and heals our body and spirit. Connecting with nature and being in the wilderness is a powerful part of healing, and the Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act will help veterans access that power. My dad was a WWII veteran who was at the Bulge and many other battles. He was also a Sierra Club member for over 40 years. He became an avid hiker and outdoor person when he came back, which helped him deal with everything he went through. It also helped bond us together through an appreciation of nature.
 Our public lands are places for respite and healing, but for many veterans, those landscapes remain out of reach, said Rob Vessels, campaign manager of Sierra Club Military Outdoors. Today's vote is an important first step in eliminating those barriers to access, so veterans can heal on the lands they swore an oath to protect. We thank Rep. Chris Smith and Rep. Adam Smith for their work on this critical issue.

 According to the Department of Veterans Affairs' National Center for PTSD, between 11 and 20 percent of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, 12 percent of those who served in Desert Storm have PTSD in a given year, and 30 percent of those who served in Vietnam, will have had PTSD in their lifetime.

    
        
            
        
    

PHOTO: On the House floor Sept. 23, Rep. Chris Smith thanked Sierra Club for its leadership, and his 130-plus colleagues who cosponsored his bill, including Armed Service Committee Chairman Adam Smith (D-WA). He recounted the true story of a veteran suffering from PTSD, and his positive encounter with nature.
 Smith's other veterans bills signed into law:
 H.R.4511 - Gold Star Families Voices Act of 2016
 HR 4175 - Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2004
 HR 2297 - Veterans Benefits Act of 2003 
 HR 1683 Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2003 
 HR 100 Servicemembers Civil Relief Act of 2003
 HR 4085 Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2002 
 HR 3838 - To amend the charter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars 
 HR 3447 - Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Programs Enhancement Act of 2001
 HR 3253 - Department of Veterans Affairs Emergency Preparedness Act of 2002 11/7/02
 HR 2716 - Homeless Veterans Comprehensive Assistance Act of 2001
 HR 2540 - Veterans' Compensation Rate Amendments of 2001
 HR 1291 - Veterans Education and Benefits Expansion Act of 2001
 HR 801 - Veterans' Survivor Benefits Improvements Act of 2001
 HJRes 65 - Commending the World War II veterans who fought in the Battle of the Bulge
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/armenian-congressional-caucus-statement-nagorno-karabakh-peace-deal,Armenian Congressional Caucus Statement on the Nagorno Karabakh Peace Deal,2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC  The Armenian Congressional Caucus, including Congressman Frank Pallone (NJ-06), Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Congressman Adam Schiff (CA-28), and Congresswoman Jackie Speier (CA-14), issued the following statement after the Nagorno Karabakh Peace Deal was announced:
As Co-Chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, we offer our deepest condolences to the people of Armenia and Artsakh. They bravely defended their homeland against Azerbaijan and Turkish-backed foreign mercenaries, facing devastating drone attacks, and enduring atrocities committed by Azeri forces. We stand with Armenia and Artsakh and reaffirm our continued support for Armenia's democratic government and Artsakh's right to self-determination.
We are deeply disappointed in the failure of the United States to play a productive role in avoiding this tragic outcome. Since the beginning of the Azeri offensive on September 27, 2020, we have called on the Administration to use all available resources to hold Turkey and Azerbaijan accountable. If the Administration had acted in a determined fashion to achieve a ceasefire and used levers like withholding military aid, reinstating Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act and sanctions, thousands of lives could have been saved and a return to peaceful negotiation would have been possible.
As we study the agreement announced yesterday, we will redouble our efforts to support Armenia and Artsakh against Azerbaijan and Turkey's outrageous hostility and to hold all those who committed atrocities against civilians in recent weeks accountable. The United States must not continue to passively ignore the threat Turkey poses to the stability of the Eastern Mediterranean, the Middle East, and the Caucasus.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/washington-reviews/washington-review-november-9-2020,"Washington Review, November 9, 2020",2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"Last week, I signed onto legislation to help save public education jobs, protect polar bears and their natural habitat, and develop and protect outdoor parks. I also cosponsored legislation to expand access to high quality apprenticeship programs across the country. I signed onto letters opposing the expansion of the global gag rule and urging the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to reverse their guidance on eviction moratoriums.
Legislation
Last week, I became a cosponsor of H.R. 8691, the Save Education Jobs Act, introduced by Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-CT). Unfortunately, between February and September 2020, an estimated 585,000 local public education employees lost their jobs across the country. Without sufficient funding from the federal government to support states and school districts during this economic recovery, an estimated 1.5 million education jobs will be lost over the next two years. This bill would deliver up to $261 billion to states and school districts over 10 years. The funding would help to save up to 3.9 million education jobs, including teachers, school leaders, social workers, school nurses, bus drivers, and more. Additionally, this legislation would also guarantee funding to all states for 6 years, or until the unemployment rate drops below 5.5%, to help school districts maintain their staff. The COVID-19 public health emergency has had a major financial impact across the country, including our schools. It is crucial that we support our local school districts with the funds they need so they can focus on what they do best  teaching our nation's children and helping them flourish into thoughtful, independent adults.
I also cosponsored H.R. 8294, the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020, introduced by Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Rep. Susan Davis (D-CA). This bill would authorize a grant program to expand access to high-quality registered apprenticeships, youth apprenticeships, and pre-apprenticeships. Registered apprenticeships are America's most successful federally authorized workforce development program. According to the Department of Labor (DOL), 94 percent of people who complete registered apprenticeships are employed upon completion, earning an average starting wage of above $70,000. Yet, according to recent data, apprenticeships only make up 0.3 percent of the overall workforce in the United States. The investment stemming from this legislation would provide nearly 1 million new apprenticeship opportunities. With the high unemployment rate due to the COVID-19 pandemic, investing in this proven workforce system could provide more Americans with a paid pathway to high-quality, high-wage employment opportunities.
I signed onto H.R. 4512, the Outdoors for All Act, introduced by Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragan (D-CA). This bill will address outdoor recreation deficits by codifying and creating mandatory funding to the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) to ensure that as our urban areas grow, there will be outdoor recreation opportunities and healthy communities. Priority would be given to shovel-ready projects that support underserved communities, provide job-training to youth, and leverage resources through public-private partnerships. This bill would also ensure underserved communities have access to local parks and outdoor recreation opportunities in areas that need it most. Especially in an era of social distancing brought on by COVID-19, it is important that all communities have outdoor areas for recreation.
Rep. Jared Huffman (D-CA) introduced H.R. 7876, the Polar Bear Cub Survival Act of 2020, which I cosponsored this week. The bill would prohibit any oil and gas activities from occurring within 1 mile of polar bear maternal denning habitats in the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, creating a buffer that would protect polar bear cubs. The 1-mile buffer builds on existing regulation by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the Beaufort Sea and is widely accepted as necessary to protect dens. As polar bears face increasing hardship due to natural resource activity and climate change, protecting their habitats and polar bear cubs is crucial to protecting the species long-term.
Letters
I signed onto a letter led by Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA) and Rep. Nita Lowey (D-NY), opposing a proposed rule to expand the global gag rule. The global gag rule prevents foreign organizations receiving U.S. global health assistance from providing information, referrals, or services advocating legal abortion. In September, the Trump Administration released a proposal to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation rule from the Department of Defense to implement the Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance Policy. The letter, addressed to Secretary of State Pompeo, Secretary of Health and Human Services Azar, and Acting Administrator Barsa of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), highlights the harmful effects this policy would have and asks the Administration to reverse the proposal. Women's reproductive rights and the right to choose are a fundamental part of women's health and should be treated as such in our mission to provide aid around the globe.
I also signed onto a letter led by Rep. Alma Adams (D-NC) and Rep. William Lacy Clay (D-MO) to the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), asking them to reverse their October guidance on eviction moratoriums. In September, the CDC issued an eviction moratorium on rental properties through December 31, 2020 before issuing updated guidance in October, undermining the intentions of the original agency order by allowing landlords to challenge tenant declarations and initiate the eviction process, badly threatening renters. To ensure renters are protected, the letter requests a 90-day extension of the order from December 31, 2020 until March 31, 2021 and the issuance of new guidance requiring landlords to inform renters of the original agency order. During this public health emergency, we need to protect renters and ensure they have a safe place to live. Additionally, the economic hardship brought about by COVID-19 is further evidence why we must protect renters in this time of need.
Open Enrollment
On November 1, 2020, Open Enrollment for health care plans will begin in New Jersey. This year, instead of using the federal marketplace, New Jersey will switch to their own state-run marketplace. In order to browse health care plans you can visit: www.nj.gov/getcoverednj. Here you will be able to compare available plans, review financial assistance options, and select a plan that is best for you. This new marketplace is easy to use and helps to clearly identify plans that will be most beneficial to you. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial we leave no one behind and that everyone has access to affordable health care. If you need health care, be sure to visit the site. Open enrollment is open from November 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021.
With cases of COVID-19 continuing to rise across the country, it is imperative we remain vigilant and safe. Please continue to wear a mask in public and practice social distancing when possible. Working together, we can help slow the spread of this virus. Please know that I will continue working to get the 8th District the resources it needs. If you have questions or need assistance please call my Washington, D.C. office at (202)225-7919 and follow instructions to be connected to my staff or send an email to NJ8inquiries@mail.house.gov. Together we can get through this.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sires-supports-pelosi-for-speaker-of-the-house-for-the-117th,Congressman Sires Supports Pelosi for Speaker of the House for the 117th Congress,2020-11-07,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.)  Congressman Sires released the following statement supporting Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the House for the 117th Congress:
Our nation has been through a turbulent four years where we had to fight to protect the rights of people across the country. Nancy Pelosi was at the forefront of that fight, advocating for people with pre-existing conditions, victims of systemic racism, the LGBTQ+ community, immigrants, families, and so many more. She held firm against President Trump and put important legislation before the House to help those who need it most. As we look towards the 117th Congress, and a Biden Harris administration, I strongly believe that Nancy Pelosi is the right choice for Speaker and I look forward to working with her to rebuild our infrastructure, ensure comprehensive health care coverage, and address the student debt crisis.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409033,"<span class =""kicker"">The Monitor of Trenton</span>'As trafficking law turns 20, Rep. Smith fears pandemic fosters child exploitation'",2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"By Julie Asher, Catholic News Service  

AstheTraffickingVictims Protection Act of 2000 marked its 20th year Oct. 28, the Catholic congressman who wrote it -- and four other anti-traffickinglaws in the intervening yearscelebrated the historic legislation that holds every nation on the globe ""to account on humantraffickingmatters.""
But in celebrating thelaw's anniversary,Rep. ChrisSmith, R-New Jersey, and member of St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square, also expressed serious concern the ongoingpandemicis putting more children and young people at risk ofexploitation.
With restrictions in place to stop the spread of COVID-19, they are spending so much more time on the internet, he said.
""Some of today's challenges, suchashow ever-evolving technology is being utilized by predators to lure children intotrafficking, could not have been anticipated20years ago,""Smithsaid.
""Today, due to COVID-19 restrictions, young people are spending more time online and evidence suggests a huge spike in predators' access to children on the internet and the rise of online grooming and sexualexploitationwhile children are isolated and 'virtually' connected to the world,"" he added.  

In his home state alone, he said, reports of onlinechildexploitationare up 75 percent, according to the Asbury Park Press daily newspaper. ""(This) can lead to humantraffickingand other abuses,""Smithsaid.  

He made the comments in an op-ed he distributed to media around the country, including Catholic News Service.
Thelawhe wrote ""to aggressively combat sex and labortraffickingboth within the United States and around the world,"" he said, ""created a new, well-funded whole-of-government domestic and international strategy and established numerous new programs to protect victims, prosecute traffickers and to the extent possible, prevent humantraffickingin the first place.""
""Thousands of human traffickers have been prosecuted and jailed pursuant"" under the landmarklaw, he said, including Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier and convicted sex offender who federal prosecutors charged in 2019 with creating a sextraffickingoperation involving dozens of underage girls.
Before he could face trial on the charges, Epstein was found dead Aug. 19, 2019, in his cell in a federal prison in New York, the victim of an apparent suicide.
Smithalso pointed to Keith Raniere and Allison Mackasexamples of others prosecuted under the TVPA.
Raniere was the leader of NXIVM, an organization he describedasa self-help group but what prosecutors called a sex cult. He was convicted in June 2019 on charges including sexualexploitation, forced labor and sextrafficking. This October, on Oct. 27, he was sentenced to 120 years in prison by a federal court in Brooklyn, New York.
Mack, a TV actress known for her role in ""Smallville,"" was a high-ranking member of Raniere's organization and faces multiple charges for allegedly being involved in a scheme to turn women into sex slaves. She pleaded guilty to racketeering charges in April 2019 and is awaiting sentencing.
Smithsaid the TVPA ""included a number of 'sea change' criminal code reforms including treatingasa victimand not a perpetrator of a crimeanyone exploited by a commercial sex act who had not attained the age of 18 and anyone older where there was an element of force, fraud or coercion.""
""The TVPA radically reformed the U.S. criminal code to authorize asset confiscation and jail sentences of up to life imprisonment for the predators,"" he continued.
""Most importantly, because of the TVPA, many victims have been rescued and protected,"" he said, ""while comprehensive prevention strategies have spared many from theexploitationand abuse of the crime that treats mostly women and childrenasmere commodities to be bought and sold.""
The 2000lawincluded the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act and the Battered Immigrant Women Protection Act and reauthorized the Violence Against Women Act.
It also provided for sheltering and a national hotline available 24/7(888) 373-7888and for refugees, created a new asylum categorythe T visato protect victims and their families.
The visa enables certain humantraffickingvictims to remain in the United States for up to four years if they have assistedlawenforcement in an investigation or prosecution of humantrafficking.
Smithsponsored four additional laws to combat humantraffickingin 2003, 2005, 2016 and 2019. Signed intolawby President Donald Trump, the 2019lawis called the Frederick DouglassTraffickingVictims Prevention and Protection Act.
Thelawfor the first time authorizes federal grants for local educational agencies ""to educate school staff to recognize and respond to signs of sex and labortraffickingand provide age-appropriate information to students on how to avoid becoming victims,"" saidSmith, who founded the Congressional HumanTraffickingCaucus and has chaired dozens of hearings on humantrafficking.
""Twenty years after the TVPA becamelaw, the nefarious trade in women and childrenmodern-day slaveryhas become more visible and a more urgent priority forlawenforcement on all levels,"" the congressman said. ""Much remains to be done to protect victims, prosecute traffickers and prevent humantrafficking.
Rep. ChrisSmith's complete op-ed can be found on the website of the Asbury Park Press,https://bit.ly/35FEqbW.

https://trentonmonitor.com/Content/Default/World-Nation/Article/As-trafficking-law-turns-20-Rep-Smith-fears-pandemic-fosters-child-exploitation/-3/274/24173",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409037,"<span class =""kicker"">Trentonian Op-Ed</span>'Smiths historic anti-trafficking law marks 20th year'",2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"This week marks the 20th anniversary of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) of 2000the comprehensive, historic law that I authored to aggressively combat sex and labor trafficking both within the United States and around the world.
The TVPA created a new, well-funded whole-of-government domestic and international strategy and established numerous new programs to Protect victims, Prosecute traffickers and to the extent possible, Prevent human trafficking in the first place.
Thousands of human traffickers have been prosecuted and jailed pursuant to the TVPA including all charges in 2019 against Jeffrey Epstein and the infamous sex trafficking ring convictions involving NXIVM's Keith Raniere and Smallville actress Allison Mack. 
The TVPA included a number of sea change criminal code reforms including treating as a victimand not a perpetrator of a crimeanyone exploited by a commercial sex act who had not attained the age of 18 and anyone older where there was an element of force, fraud or coercion.
The TVPA radically reformed the U.S. criminal code to authorize asset confiscation and jail sentences of up to life imprisonment for the predators. 
Most importantly, because of the TVPA, many victims have been rescued and protected while comprehensive prevention strategies have spared many from the exploitation and abuse of the crime that treats mostly women and children as mere commodities to be bought and sold.
Of significance, my law also included the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, the Battered Immigrant Women Protection Act and reauthorized the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)doubling VAWA funding to $3.3 billion over five years for women's shelters, rehab programs, housing and other initiatives for battered and abused women.

    
        
            
        
    

Over the years, I've authored four additional laws to combat human traffickingincluding in 2003, 2005, 2016, and 2019. 
Believing that federal law needed parallel state and local statues to foster an effective prosecution strategy to combat human trafficking, the TVPA included new DOJ programs to assist states in crafting laws and authorized the creation of new anti-human trafficking task forces.
In like manner, the TVPA provides law reform and best-practice technical assistance to other countries. 
The Act also included sheltering and a national hotline, and on the refugee side, created a new asylum categorythe T visato protect victims and their families.
Among its many other provisions, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act also created the President's Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons the U.S. State Department's Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons and annual TIP reports with its tier grading of every nation's record in making serious and sustained efforts to eliminate human trafficking. Those relegated to what we call Tier 3egregious violatorsare subject to sanctions.  
In 2019, President Trump signed my fifth comprehensive anti-human trafficking bill into law The Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Act- which for the first time ever authorized federal grants to local educational agencies to educate school staff to recognize and respond to signs of sex and labor trafficking and provide age-appropriate information to students on how to avoid becoming victims.
According to the International Labor Organization (ILO) one in four trafficking victims are children and more than 40 million individuals of all ages are living in slavery worldwide.
Some of today's challenges, such as how ever-evolving technology is being utilized by predators to lure children into trafficking, could not have been anticipated 20 years ago
Today, due to COVID-19 restrictions, young people are spending more time online and evidence suggests a huge spike in predators' access to children on the internet and the rise of online grooming and sexual exploitation while children are isolated and virtually connected to the world.  

As reported by the Asbury Park Press, there is a huge surge in reports about online child exploitationup 75 percent in New Jersey alonewhich can lead to human trafficking and other abuses.  

ECPAT-USA, the first U.S.-based nonprofit to work on the issue of commercial sexual exploitation of children, has been especially focused on the safety of children during the pandemic believing safety means more than handwashing and has created online safety guidelines for youth, parents and educators.
Twenty years after the TVPA became law, the nefarious trade in women and childrenmodern-day slaveryhas become more visible and a more urgent priority for law enforcement on all levels.  

Much remains to be done to protect victims, prosecute traffickers and prevent human trafficking.  

This Op-Ed, penned by US Congressman Chris Smith, was published in the Oct. 30, 2020 edition of the Trentonian on page 16, and can be found online at:
https://www.trentonian.com/opinion/guest-oped-smith-s-historic-anti-trafficking-law-marks-20th-year/article_560ab302-19fc-11eb-b28e-1f8df4cca38c.html",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409038,"<span class =""kicker"">Rep. Smith on NJ101.5 FM</span>Fighting to protect the victims--mostly woman and children-- of human trafficking",2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"WKXW 10/30/2020 8:11:59 AM: 
Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04) was a live call-in guest on NJ101.5 today with host Bill Spadea. The following are excerpts of the show:Spadea: Please welcome myfriend Congressman Chris Smith back to the show... and he has some good news to share... Actually  this week marked the 20th anniversary of something that Congressman Smith championed, it is the victimsof trafficking and violence protection act's 20thanniversary. This was designed to combat traffickingand fight against violence against women, and Chris Smith was the author and has been anoutspoken advocate... he's out doing his job focusing onconstituent service. Morning Chris, how are you? Smith: Morning, Bill, and thanks for having me on, appreciate it it. Spadea: So tell me about this bill and the realproblem human trafficking that is still going on in theworld... . Smith: Oh, without a doubt. It's still growing. It's a hugeproblem in New Jersey, throughout the rest of the country. And part ofthat is that during COVID-19 that's gottenworse for young kids who are online, and predators are trying to groom them to send inpictures of themselves and that leads to a whole horrible outcome. So parents need to be veryaware of that and monitor very, very aggressively the use of phones, as wellas the use of internetwith so many children and with so many predators trying tofind those kids to exploit them. So the Trafficking Victims Protection Act and the Reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, all of which were my law.  It was 20 years ago this past Wednesday, just a coupledays ago. It empowers a whole-of-governmentapproach. The prosecutors nowcan bring charges... they're prioritized. And there have been thousands of prosecutions, successful ones, that have putthose whomcommit these heinous crimes behind bars for longperiods of time. That [Keith] Ranier, the man that was partof the that horrible cult in NY just got 120 years and they used my law to prosecute him.  Spadea: That's good. Smith: So, it really makes a difference. And then, Bill, we call it the three ""Ps"" ...a Prosecution of traffickers, Protection of the victims, which are primarily womenand children, and then Prevention strategies. Andmy most recent law just signed by President Trumpnamed after Fredrick Douglas... that one has come up with some very good curriculum for our students to make them situationally aware, so they are not lured into this terrible, nefarious international trade where women are turned into commodities for sale. So it's made a difference, both domestically and internationally. And it's right here, gangs and organized crime are the two principle drivers behind it... having met so many trafficking victims. A matter of fact, in the 1990s when I had a whole series of hearings I had women who had been trafficked tell their stories . I'll tell you, the pain and the agony of in their voices and in their eyes and in their hearts helped me get the bill passed. Because a lot of people didn't want to do it. They were either indifferent or they thought it was a solution in search of a problem, or they simply just said 'ah, let's do other things.' So it took a while to get this law signed. Spadea: Yeah, but you did it, you got it done. And you've been a tireless champion for those without a voice at so many levels in government. Smith: And Bill, just one quick thing. If people see something that doesn't look right, almost like with the mantra that we have with terrorism: 'if it doesn't look right, make a call,' call local law enforcement and let them know ""Hey, this is going on, I think there might be something going where women are being forced into this horrible trade. It's modern reality slavery. Spadea: It's a reality. it's areality. Smith: We can stop it. Spadea: Thank you, thank you, Chris for your leadership. You take care. All right that was Congressman Chris Smith represents the 4th District New Jersey... . Spadea: I want tothank my yeah my friend congressman Chris Smith forcoming in. Yeah, he mentioned that one of his one ofhis bills protecting women and children is namedafter Fredrick Douglas. Fredrick Douglas is one ofthe greatfigures in American history. Thisis a man who escaped slavery in Maryland becamea national leader of the abolitionist movement. Hishistory goes back to being a young kid, learning howto read and then teaching other slaves, had read the Bible and one his great quotes I quote oftenis 'it is easier to build strong children than torepair broken men,' and I think it's especiallyimportant to understand that quote today... . The above are excerpts from the broadcast which aired live Oct. 30, 2020.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://payne.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-payne-jr-wants-federal-plan-education-during-public-health-crisis,"Rep. Payne, Jr. Wants a Federal Plan for Education during a Public Health Crisis",2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Media Contact: Patrick Wright  -- Patrick.Wright@mail.house.gov
Washington, D.C. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. introduced the Pandemic Planning and Response for Schools Act today. The bill would require the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Education to create a public plan for the continuation of education during a public health emergency. 
My bill is a direct response to the failed leadership of the Trump Administration regarding how to reopen schools during this global pandemic, said Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. Right now, we have school districts across the country trying to figure out how to teach students and keep them safe during this public health crisis without any federal guidelines or standards. We need a plan from the two federal agencies that handle public health and education to guide schools on what to do during such an emergency.
The bill states that a plan to outline how to continue student education during a public health crisis must be created and available to Congress, the States, and the public no later than 30 days after an emergency has been declared. The plan would provide requirements and recommendations on how to protect students and faculty during in-class instruction. If schools need to be closed, the plan would give directions regarding how to conduct online classes with direct supervision from a teacher or classroom instructor. In addition, it would provide rules and guidelines for what to do if schools use in-class and online instruction for students during the emergency. 
####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sires-introduces-house-companion-to-senate-bill-to-strengthen-us,Sires Introduces House Companion to Senate Bill to Strengthen U.S. Competitiveness in Latin America and the Caribbean and Address Chinas Growing Role in the Region,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC)  Today, Congressman Albio Sires (D-NJ), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, Civilian Security, and Trade, introduced the House companion to Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Senator Marco Rubio's (R-FL) Advancing Competitiveness, Transparency, and Security in the Americas Act (ACTSA). The legislation seeks to support the United States' partners in Latin America and the Caribbean through expanding U.S. economic engagement, bilateral and multilateral diplomacy, and support for human rights.
Smart competition with China means leveraging our strengths by supporting our allies throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, said Congressman Sires. As Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, I have closely monitored China's growing role in the region and consistently expressed my deep concern that the United States does not spend enough time engaging with our own hemisphere. China's economic investments, political and military activities, and sharp power' tactics carry significant national security implications for the United States. This legislation takes an important step toward reasserting a U.S. commitment to prioritize Latin America and the Caribbean and to work with our allies and partners in the region to advance economic opportunity, regional security, and the realization of universal human rights throughout this hemisphere.
The legislation requires a strategy for the executive branch to deepen its engagement with the Western Hemisphere; enhances U.S. economic tools and diplomatic presence in the region; counters malign economic practices from China; secures physical and digital infrastructure through technical assistance; and supports civil society and investigative journalism to defend human rights and democratic institutions.
The full text of the bill can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sires-presenta-contraparte-de-un-proyecto-de-ley-del-senado-para,Sires presenta contraparte de un proyecto de ley del Senado para fortalecer la competitividad de Estados Unidos en Amrica Latina y el Caribe y abordar el papel creciente de China en la regin,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC)  Hoy, el congresista Albio Sires (D-NJ), president del Subcomit de Asuntos Exteriores de la Cmara de Representates sobre el Hemisferio Occidental, Seguridad Civil y Comercio, present la contraparte en la Cmara del proyecto de ley del Senador Bob Menendez (D-NJ) y el Senador Marco Rubio (R-FL) titulado la Ley para la Promocin de Competitividad, Transparencia y Seguridad en las Amricas (ACTSA, por sus siglas en ingls). La legislacin busca apoyar a los aliados de Estados Unidos en Amrica Latina y el Caribe a travs de la expansin del compromiso econmico de Estados Unidos, la diplomacia bilateral y multilateral y el apoyo a los derechos humanos.
Para competir efectivamente con China, los Estados Unidos tiene que aprovechar de nuestras capacidades y apoyar a nuestros aliados en Amrica Latina y el Caribe, dijo el congresista Sires. Como presidente del Subcomit sobre el Hemisferio Occidental, he seguido de cerca el papel cada vez ms importante que juega China en la regin y he expresado constantemente mi profunda preocupacin de que los Estados Unidos no dedica suficiente atencin a nuestro propio hemisferio. Las inversiones econmicas, las actividades polticas y militares de China y sus operaciones de influencia conllevan implicaciones importantes para la seguridad nacional de los Estados Unidos. Esta legislacin da un paso importante para reafirmar el compromiso de Estados Unidos de priorizar Amrica Latina y el Caribe y trabajar con nuestros aliados y socios en la regin para promover las oportunidades econmicas, la seguridad regional y la realizacin de los derechos humanos universales en todo este hemisferio.
La legislacin requiere una estrategia para que la rama ejecutiva profundice su compromiso con el hemisferio occidental, mejora las herramientas econmicas y la presencia diplomtica de Estados Unidos en la regin, contrarresta las malas prcticas econmicas de China, asegura la infraestructura fsica y digital mediante asistencia tcnica y apoya a la sociedad civil y al periodismo de investigacin para defender los derechos humanos y las instituciones democrticas.
El texto completo del proyecto de ley se puede encontrar aqu.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/washington-reviews/washington-review-october-30-2020,"Washington Review, October 30, 2020",2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"This week, I joined the Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey to discuss affordable housing in the 8th District. I introduced legislation to support our economic partners in Latin America and the Caribbean and cosponsored legislation to provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to schools, get surplus computers to our nation's veterans and students, and reaffirm our commitment to marriage equality. I also sent a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding oversight of nursing homes, and signed onto letters to oppose the Administration's plan to nationalize the 5G network, oppose new labor standards that would harm workers, to ensure the United States Postal Service (USPS) is ready to handle the influx of mail-in ballots in New Jersey, and to oppose the expulsion of unaccompanied minors.
Housing Roundtable
On Thursday, I participated in a roundtable hosted by the Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey to discuss affordable housing needs in the 8th District. The COVID-19 public health emergency has had a large economic and public health impact and has put a major strain on many homeowners, renters, and affordable housing systems in the 8th District and across the country. I have long supported plans to prevent foreclosures and evictions during this crisis and provide support for those who need assistance to stay in their homes. In the House, we have taken concrete steps to help prevent foreclosures and evictions by passing the Emergency Housing Protections and Relief Act, which I proudly supported. This bill, among other things, extends a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures and creates billions in funding to assist renters and homeowners so they can stay in their homes during these difficult times. As we continue to confront the COVID-19 public health emergency, I will continue working tirelessly to support and bring solutions that will provide critical affordable housing services in our communities. I will also continue to support long-term solutions that will help make housing more secure and affordable for everyone in the 8th District. As COVID-19 continues to affect our country, it is crucial that everyone have a safe roof over their head, and I will continue fighting in Congress to make that a reality.
Legislation
I cosponsored H.R. 7566, the Computers for Veterans and Students Act, introduced by Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA). This bill allows federal agencies to directly transfer surplus computers and related technology to refurbishers for distribution to schools, veterans, seniors, and other communities in need. Currently, the General Services Administration (GSA) is not permitted to send computers to refurbishers and distributes surplus computers to students and education nonprofits. Allowing these devices to be refurbished and expanding their reach to include veterans and seniors is an admirable way to get these much-needed devices in the hands of people who need them most.
I also cosponsored H.R. 8664, the Personal Protective Equipment for Safe Schools and Students Act, introduced by Rep. Jesus Garcia (D-IL). This legislation would provide $17 billion to school districts to pay for PPE, cleaning supplies, technical training, and additional support measures needed to keep students, educators, and communities safe. Specifically, this bill would provide $8.8 billion for PPE in schools and school buses, $1.6 billion in cleaning and health supplies, and $6.6 billion to fund additional demands of cleaning staff. As cases across the country continue to rise and with many of our children attending in-person classes, protecting students and faculty is of the highest priority.
I joined over 30 of my colleagues in a resolution led by Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH), reaffirming support for marriage equality in this country. Over the last few years, the Supreme Court has rightfully upheld that same-sex couples have the right to marry and are entitled to the benefits and protections afforded to marriage under the law. However, recently Justice Thomas and Justice Alito have released statements that some of these rulings in favor of same-sex marriage undermine religious liberty. The resolution notes the Supreme Court's recent history of supporting same-sex marriage and emphasizes that supporting same-sex marriage is not in conflict with religious freedom. We have worked hard to ensure same-sex couples have the right to marry and enjoy the benefits they are entitled to and we must ensure these rulings are protected.
On Friday, I introduced the Advancing Competitiveness, Transparency, and Security in the Americas Act, the House companion to Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Sen. Marco Rubio's (R-FL) bill in the Senate. The legislation seeks to support the United States' partners in Latin America and the Caribbean through expanding U.S. economic engagement, bilateral and multilateral diplomacy, and support for civil society and investigative journalism to defend human rights. Additionally, the bill requires a strategy for the executive branch to deepen its engagement with the Western Hemisphere and helps secure physical and digital infrastructure through technical assistance.
Letters
I sent a letter with Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) outlining our concern for the oversight of nursing homes during the COVID-19 public health emergency. The letter highlights the high rate of COVID-19 infections in nursing homes, particularly in New Jersey, and asks CMS how they take into account their star rating system that consumers can use to evaluate nursing homes. It is crucial we know the metrics that CMS uses to make these rankings so that we can ensure they are up-to-date and take into account the most important information potential residents and families of those residents need to know before making a decision about a nursing home. With the unfortunate strife that many nursing homes have endured during this public health crisis, proper oversight and dissemination of information regarding nursing homes is paramount to ensuring the safety of nursing homes going forward.
Rep. Tony Cardenas (D-CA) led a letter to House and Senate leadership opposing the Trump Administration's plan to nationalize our 5G network. Currently, the Department of Defense is exploring ways to own and operate 5G networks for its domestic operations, which would undermine private sector efforts to deploy 5G nationwide. The letter expresses opposition to this proposal. Nationalizing our 5G network is a short-term solution that will lead to private sector harm and lower quality in our 5G network long-term. It is still possible to keep our nation's 5G network secured through vigorous oversight and checks, rather than shutting out the private sector entirely.
I also joined Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Rep. Alma Adams (D-NC) in sending a letter to the Department of Labor Secretary Eugene Scalia opposing the Department of Labor's proposal to narrow its interpretation of employee status under the Fair Labor Standards Act, which would leave workers vulnerable to employee misclassification. The letter expresses concerns that the proposal will lead to increase instances of employers misclassifying workers as independent contractors, which would deny workers basic wage and hour protections. Misclassification would not only result in a loss of benefits for many workers but would also cause significant losses in wages for workers. Further, as our local communities continue to struggle amid the COVID-19 public health emergency, this proposal could worsen conditions for small businesses and local governments, who are already struggling.
The New Jersey delegation, led by Rep. Pascrell, sent a letter to the United States Postal Service (USPS) calling for the agency to answer crucial questions about the ability of USPS to process the large influx of mail-in ballots expected for the November election. On September 30, 2020, Rep. Pascrell and I led a letter to the USPS asking these crucial questions and requesting a tour of the Dominick V. Daniels Processing and Distribution Center in Kearny, NJ. However, USPS never responded to our inquiries, and actively blocked our attempt to tour the facility. USPS blocking crucial and routine Congressional oversight of the facility was troubling, and this letter calls on USPS to explain their decision as well as answer all appropriate questions about their ability to handle many mail-in ballots. With millions of Americans in New Jersey and across the country mailing in their ballots the safety and security of these ballots is one of my highest priorities and I will do everything in my power to ensure these ballots are protected and processed correctly.
I sent a letter to Secretary of State Pompeo and Acting Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Wolf regarding a DHS incident in Guatemala. A recent Senate Foreign Relation Committee (SFRC) Democratic staff report uncovered a January 2020 incident in which Department of Homeland Security officials participated in an illegal immigration operation in Guatemala. The report outlines that in January 2020, DHS agents in Guatemala misused State Department funds to rent unmarked vans and contract drivers to transport an unidentified number of migrants back to the Guatemala-Honduras border. Additionally, during initial inquiries by the SFRC's Democratic staff, DHS provided false information to the State Department, stating DHS had not participated in the operation, causing the State Department to transmit misleading responses to Congress. The bicameral letter to Secretary of State Michael Pompeo and DHS Acting Secretary Chad Wolf requests that the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security provide Congressional offices with a full report of the January 2020 incident and take steps to ensure accountability and prevent future incidents.
I joined Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA) and over 50 other House members in a letter to Acting DHS Secretary Wolf and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Director Redfield regarding the expulsion of unaccompanied children. On March 20, 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an order that bars unaccompanied children, along with the overwhelming majority of asylum seekers, from entering the United States. Pursuant to that order, DHS has expelled over 8,800 unaccompanied children, returning them without legally mandated protection screening, immigration court hearings, or other due process safeguards in violation of the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 (TVPRA). The letter calls upon the Administration to immediately cease expulsions of children, fully comply with the TVPRA and all other relevant laws and standards and respond to questions regarding the process and impact of the DHS' actions.
Open Enrollment
On November 1, 2020, Open Enrollment for health care plans will begin in New Jersey. This year, instead of using the federal marketplace, New Jersey will switch to their own state-run marketplace. In order to browse health care plans you can visit: www.nj.gov/getcoverednj. Here you will be able to compare available plans, review financial assistance options, and select a plan that is best for you. This new marketplace is easy to use and helps to clearly identify plans that will be most beneficial to you. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial we leave no one behind and that everyone has access to affordable health care. If you need health care, be sure to visit the site. Open enrollment is open from November 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021.
With cases of COVID-19 continuing to rise across the country, it is imperative we remain vigilant and safe. Please continue to wear a mask in public and practice social distancing when possible. Working together, we can help slow the spread of this virus. Please know that I will continue working to get the 8th District the resources it needs. If you have questions or need assistance please call my Washington, D.C. office at (202)225-7919 and follow instructions to be connected to my staff or send an email to NJ8inquiries@mail.house.gov. Together we can get through this.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409030,"<span class =""kicker"">Asbury Park Press Op-Ed on the anniversary of Smith's landmark human trafficking law</span>'COVID-19 puts more children at risk of exploitation as anti-trafficking law hits 20 | Smith'",2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today  Oct.28  marks 20th anniversary of theTrafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) of 2000 the comprehensive, historic law that I authored to aggressively combat sex and labor trafficking both within the United States and around the world. The TVPA created a new, well-fundedwhole-of-government domesticand international strategy and established numerous new programs to protect victims, prosecute traffickers and, to the extent possible, prevent human trafficking in the first place.
The TVPAincluded a number of sea change criminal code reforms including treating as a victim  and not a perpetrator of a crime  anyone exploited by a commercial sex act who had not attained the age of 18 and anyone older where there was an element of force, fraud or coercion.




The TVPA radically reformed the US criminal code to authorize asset confiscation and jail sentences of up to life imprisonment for the predators.




Most importantly, because of the TVPA, many victims have been rescued and protected while comprehensive prevention strategies have spared many from the exploitation and abuse of the crime that treats mostly women and children as mere commodities to be bought and sold. Of significance, my law also included the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, the Battered Immigrant Women Protection Act and reauthorized theViolence Against Women Act(VAWA)  doubling VAWA funding to $3.3 billion over five years for women's shelters, rehab programs, housing and other initiatives for battered and abused women.
Over the years, I've authored four additional laws to combat human trafficking including in2003,2005,2016and2019. 



2017 investigation:NJ police help FBI operation that saved 84 kids from sex trafficking
Believing that federal law needed parallel state and local statues to effectuate an effective prosecution strategy to combat human trafficking, the TVPA included new DOJ programs to assist states in crafting laws and authorized the creation of new anti-human trafficking task forces.
In like manner, the TVPA provides law reform and best-practice technical assistance to other countries.
The Act also included sheltering and anational hotlineand on the refugee side, created a new asylum category  theT visa to protect victims and their families.



Among its many other provisions, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act also created the president's Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons theU.S. State Department's Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons and annual TIP report with its tier grading of every nation's record in making serious and sustained efforts to eliminate human trafficking.Those relegated to what we call Tier 3  egregious violators  are subject to sanctions.




In 2019, President Trump signed my fifth comprehensive anti-human trafficking bill into law The Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Actwhich for the first time ever authorized federal grants to local educational agencies to educate school staff to recognize and respond to signs of sex and labor trafficking and provide age-appropriate information to students on how to avoid becoming victims.
According to the International Labor Organization one in four trafficking victims are children and more than 40 million individuals of all ages are living in slavery worldwide.
Some of today's challenges, such as how ever-evolving technology is being utilized by predators to lure children into trafficking, could not have been anticipated 20 years ago
Today, due to COVID-19 restrictions, young people are spending more time online and evidence suggests a huge spike in predators' access to children on the internet and the rise of online grooming and sexual exploitation while children are isolated and virtually connected to the world.
'Rescued from this evil':179 arrested, 45 missing children recovered in Ohio's 'Operation Autumn Hope'
As reported by theAsbury Park Press, there is a huge surge in reports about online child exploitation  up 75% in New Jersey alone  which can lead to human trafficking and other abuses.
ECPAT-USA, the first U.S.-based nonprofit to work on the issue of commercial sexual exploitation of children, has been especially focused on the safety of children during the pandemic believing safety means more than handwashing and has created online safety guidelines foryouth, parents and educators.


Twenty years after the TVPA became law, the nefarious trade in women and children  modern-day slavery  has become more visible and a more urgent priority for law enforcement on all levels.



Much remains to be done to protect victims, prosecute traffickers and prevent human trafficking.
U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-NJ, 4th District
This article was published in the print edition of the Asbury Park Press on Oct. 28, 2020 and can be found online at:
https://www.app.com/story/opinion/columnists/2020/10/28/covid-19-puts-more-children-risk-exploitation-smith/6046789002/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-joins-governor-murphy-signing-executive-order-protect-new,Norcross Joins Governor Murphy for Signing of Executive Order to Protect New Jerseys Workforce During the COVID-19 Pandemic,2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"TRENTON, NJ  Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) joined New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy today in building on ongoing efforts to safeguard New Jersey's front-line workforce, where Governor Murphy signed Executive Order No. 192, providing mandatory health and safety standards to protect all New Jersey's workers at work during the pandemic.
As we continue to battle the coronavirus pandemic, countless New Jerseyans continue heading to work each day, said Congressman Norcross. These workers are keeping our economy going, and they need the proper protocols and protections to address COVID-19 in the workplace. Today's executive order lays out the enforceable standards we need, ensuring the safety of our workers, employers and customers. I will continue to fight for a federal OSHA emergency temporary standard, but where the Trump Administration and Mitch McConnell have dropped the ball, our state has stepped up.
Since the start of the pandemic, New Jersey workers across all sectors have risen to the challenges imposed by COVID-19, said Governor Murphy. Yet, the federal government has failed to provide all workers the proper standards and protections that they deserve. Today's executive order closes that gap to help ensure the health and safety of our workforce during this unprecedented time. I want to thank the many community partners who have been with us throughout this process, and the employers across the state who have been working with us through the pandemic as we pursue economic health through public health.
With today's action, New Jerseybecomes the only state to expand it public sector-only jurisdiction to protect workers in the private sector from COVID-19. We now have the essential tools and resourceswe needto ensure businesses are operating safely, and our economyismoving forward, said Labor Commissioner RobertAsaro-Angelo.By protecting NewJerseyansin the workplace, we are lessening the health risks to families and communities. As more and more people return to work, the high standards wehave set today will be critical in maintaining our public health.
The executive order will take the following actions: 
Workplace health and safety standards to cover all NJ workers
The executive order will require both private and public sector employers to follow health and safety protocols that will serve to protect their in-person workforces. The Order mandates that as of 6:00 a.m. on November 5th, all employers, at minimum, require individuals at the worksite to maintain at least six feet of distance from others to the maximum extent possible and require employees and visitors to wear masks when entering the worksite, subject to certain limited exceptions.
Other protocols require employers to:
 Provide approved sanitization materials to employees and visitors at no cost to those individuals;
	Ensure that employees practice hand hygiene and provide sufficient break time for that purpose;
	Routinely clean and disinfect all high-touch areas in accordance with DOH and CDC guidelines;
	Conduct daily health checks, such as temperature screenings, visual symptom checking, self-assessment checklists, and/or health questionnaires, prior to each shift, consistent with CDC guidance;
	Exclude sick employees from the workplace and follow requirements of applicable leave laws; and
	Promptly notify employees of any known exposure to COVID-19 at the worksite.
 Collaborative enforcement mechanism to address complaints
The Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) will support the Department of Health's efforts to address worker complaints from their employers. NJDOL's roles will include establishing an intake form on the NJDOL website to receive complaints and developing an investigation and inspection protocol to review complaints.
Training program to inform workers of their rights and to encourage employer compliance
The executive order also directs NJDOL to provide compliance and safety training for employers and employees. The department will provide materials to inform workers of their rights and businesses of their obligations as well as coordinate with workforce training partners to create and provide training.
For a copy of Executive Order No. 192, click here.
###
Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409028,"<span class =""kicker"">COVID-19 puts more children at risk of exploitation</span>Smiths historic anti-trafficking victims law marks 20th year",2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"October 28th marks 20th anniversary of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) of 2000the comprehensive, historic law authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to aggressively combat sex and labor trafficking both within the United States and around the world.
 The TVPA created a new, well-funded whole-of-government domestic and international strategy and established numerous new programs to Protect victims, Prosecute traffickers and to the extent possible, Prevent human trafficking in the first place.  

 Thousands of human traffickers have been prosecuted and jailed pursuant to the TVPA including all charges in 2019 against Jeffrey Epstein and the infamous sex trafficking ring convictions involving NXIVM's Keith Raniere and Smallville actress Allison Mack.  

 According to Smith the TVPA included a number of sea change criminal code reforms including treating as a victimand not a perpetrator of a crimeanyone exploited by a commercial sex act who had not attained the age of 18 and anyone older where there was an element of force, fraud or coercion.
 The TVPA radically reformed the U.S. criminal code to authorize asset confiscation and jail sentences of up to life imprisonment for the predators.
 Smith said that because of the TVPA, many victims have been rescued and protected while comprehensive prevention strategies have spared many from the exploitation and abuse of the crime that treats women and children as mere commodities to be bought and sold.
 Of significance, Smith's law also included the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, the Battered Immigrant Women Protection Act and reauthorized the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)doubling VAWA funding to $3.3 billion over five years for women's shelters, rehab programs, housing and other initiatives for battered and abused women.  

 Over the years, Smith authored four additional laws to combat human traffickingincluding in 2003, 2005, 2016, and 2019. 
 Believing that federal law needed parallel state and local statues to foster an effective prosecution strategy to combat human trafficking, the TVPA included new DOJ programs to assist states in crafting laws and authorized the creation of new anti-human trafficking task forces.
 In like manner, the TVPA provides law reform and best-practice technical assistance to other countries.
 The Act also included sheltering and a national hotline, and on the refugee side, created a new asylum categorythe T visato protect victims and their families.
 Among its many other provisions, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act also created the President's Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, the U.S. State Department's Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons and annual TIP reports with its tier grading of every nation's record in making serious and sustained efforts to eliminate human trafficking. Those relegated to what is called Tier 3egregious violatorsare subject to sanctions.
 In 2019, President Trump signed Smith's fifth comprehensive anti-human trafficking bill into law The Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Actwhich for the first time ever authorized federal grants to local educational agencies to educate school staff to recognize and respond to signs of sex and labor trafficking and provide age-appropriate information to students on how to avoid becoming victims.
 According to the International Labor Organization (ILO) one in four trafficking victims are children and more than 40 million individuals of all ages are living in slavery worldwide.  

 Smith noted that some of today's challenges, such as how ever-evolving technology is being utilized by predators to lure children into trafficking, could not have been anticipated 20 years ago  

 Smith noted that due to COVID-19 restrictions, young people are spending more time online and evidence suggests a huge spike in predators' access to children on the internet and the rise of online grooming and sexual exploitation while children are isolated and virtually'connected to the world.""  

 As reported by the Asbury Park Press, there is a huge surge in reports about online child exploitationup 75 percent in New Jersey alonewhich can lead to human trafficking and other abuses.
 ECPAT-USA, the first U.S.-based nonprofit to work on the issue of commercial sexual exploitation of children, has been especially focused on the safety of children during the pandemic believing safety means more than handwashing and has created online safety guidelines for youth, parents and educators.
 Smith added, Twenty years after the TVPA became law, the nefarious trade in women and childrenmodern-day slaveryhas become more visible and a more urgent priority for law enforcement on all levels.
 Much remains to be done to protect victims, prosecute traffickers and prevent human trafficking, he said.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/norcross-announces-more-625k-grants-research-and-treatment-substance-use,Norcross Announces More Than $625K in Grants for Research and Treatment into Substance Use Disorder,2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"CHERRY HILL, NJ  U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced today that Rowan University will receive a total of $625,541 from two federal grants from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The funding will allow Rowan students to increase treatment for those with substance use disorders and increase research on the relationship between substance abuse and sexual assault.
Specifically, the following will receive:
 $425,541 to Rowan University to support the development of solutions to the intersection between alcohol abuse and sexual assault.
	$200,000 to Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine to expand their capacity to treat substance abuse disorders.
 As America faces the health and economic crises brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, this federal funding will help our neighbors who are also struggling with addiction, as well as those impacted by sexual assault, said Congressman Norcross, Vice-Chair of the Bipartisan Opioid Task Force. These grants will provide Rowan University with the resources to study these areas and research solutions to ensure that all affected by these issues, including survivors and those in recovery, have the necessary support during their journey of healing and recovery. Rowan continues to use their research facilities to make our communities healthier and stronger, and I look forward to seeing the innovative work that will be done right here in South Jersey.
We are truly ecstatic to hear that we are the recipient of a Mental Health and Substance Abuse service grant from the Department of Health and Human Services. This award will help us to enhance our training and education for our medical students in the treatment of substance abuse disorders, said Dr. Thomas Cavalieri, the Dean of Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. It will also enable us to impact nationally by providing our expertise to the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners, which is a pathway for physicians to be licensed. Through this award, future physicians will be better equipped to recognize and treat patients afflicted with addiction. We are very grateful to Congressman Norcross for his commitment to combat addiction, which is a major health care crisis in South Jersey and the nation.
Men who have sex with men are an understudied group with regard to sexual violence. Some research suggests they may be at higher risk than heterosexual women for sexual violence victimization, said DJ Angelone, Ph.D., professor of psychology at Rowan University, Glassboro, N.J. We want to create a tool that we can use to identify what factors might assess not only the risk for sexual violence, but also resiliency. Having the knowledge about risk and resiliency variables will help us create prevention interventions down the line.""
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) helps make advances in research behind medicine, human services and social services.
###
Contact: Carrie Healey, Communications Director  carrie.healey@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://sires.house.gov/media-center/washington-reviews/washington-review-october-26-2020,"Washington Review, October 26, 2020",2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"Last week, I introduced legislation in the House to ensure language access and multilingual materials for all resources coming from federal government. I cosponsored legislation to help struggling independent music venues, provide grants to communities which are struggling with COVID-19, establish proper procedures and policies for nursing homes during the current and future public health emergencies, supporting digital equity, and supporting the people of Artsakh and their right to self-determination. I also sent a letter to the Secretary of Agriculture expressing my concerns with self-promotion in letters from the President, and signed onto letters to the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure all COVID-19 tests are free, and Secretary of State Pompeo to impose sanctions on Azerbaijani officials for human rights abuses.
Legislation
Last week, I introduced the Equal Access to Information Act in the House, a companion bill to Sen. Menendez's (D-NJ) version in the Senate. This legislation would require federal agencies to provide equal language access and multilingual materials for all resources coming from federal agencies. Specifically, it would require demographic assessments by federal agencies to better establish and implement appropriate language materials and procedures in communities across the country. The United States is a proudly diverse country and we should actively ensure that all federal programs are understandable and accessible for those with limited English proficiency or disabilities. As exemplified during the COVID-19 public health emergency, making federal programs accessible to all is crucial to preventing further spread of the virus, getting assistance to those who need it, and making sure people are informed during all future crises.
I signed onto H.R. 8192, the COVID Community Care Act, introduced by Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA). This legislation authorizes emergency funding for community-based organizations and non-profits in medically underserved communities to provide COVID-19 testing, contact tracing, and outreach to their communities. The bill would prioritize funding for communities struggling with high-rates of COVID-19, communities with high percentages of minority residents, and medically underserved communities. As new cases of COVID-19 continue to rise in many parts of the country this funding to local organizations who have first-hand knowledge of their communities is crucial to combatting the virus and protecting the health of everyone.
Independent entertainment venues have been among the hardest hit from the economic fallout of COVID-19. That is why I cosponsored H.R. 7806, the Save Our Stages Act, introduced by Rep. Peter Welch (D-VT). This legislation authorizes an appropriation of $10 billion for a grant program helping entertainment venues. The grants can be used for rent, utilities, mortgage payments, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), maintenance, taxes, operating costs, and more. Unfortunately, the small business relief programs that were put in place, such as the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), were not designed for businesses that have no revenue, a high rate of part time employees, and are not set to reopen any time soon. 90 percent of small venue owners could have to permanently close if relief is not provided soon. Just like restaurants and other small businesses, local venues make part of the fabric of their communities. During these times when they cannot open their doors, we need to ensure they get the proper relief needed to sustain their operations.
I became a cosponsor of H.R. 8563, the Promoting Restoration of Emergency Preparedness and Advancing Response to Epidemics in Long-Term Care (PREPARE LTC) Act, introduced by Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ). This legislation would require long-term care facilities to establish and maintain an infection prevention program and an emergency plan to protect residents in emergency and public health emergency situations. Additionally, this bill would prevent the Secretary of Health and Human Services from waiving or suspending any staffing reporting or critical inspections during a public health emergency, and mandates that any reporting developed for COVID-19 include information on infectious disease outbreaks within nursing facilities. We know that COVID-19 can be particularly harmful for individuals in long-term care facilities, and we must do everything possible to help protect and prepare those facilities.
I also cosponsored H.R. 4486, the Digital Equity Act, introduced by Rep. Jerry McNerney (D-CA). This legislation requires the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to establish grant programs for promoting digital equity, supporting digital inclusion, and building capacity for state led efforts to increase adoption of broadband for residents. Specifically, the bill establishes the $125 million State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program to make distributions to states based on their populations, demographics, and availability and adoption of broadband. The bill also establishes the $125 million Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program for supporting efforts to achieve digital equity, promote digital inclusion, and stimulate adoption of broadband.
I signed onto a resolution led by Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), supporting Artsakh and recognizing its right to self-determination. On September 27, Azerbaijani and Turkish forces broke a long-standing ceasefire between Azerbaijan and Armenia by invading Artsakh in the South Caucuses. These latest rounds of attacks have led to the deaths of hundreds of soldiers, dozens of civilians, and the displacement of roughly half the population. Specifically, this resolution expresses the sense of the House of Representatives in condemning the September 27th invasion by Turkish and Azerbaijani backed forces. It also calls for all involved parties to withdraw to their initial positions, honor negotiated ceasefires, and cease all attacks on civilians. This latest wave of violence in the caucuses is regrettable and the United States must do all in its power to stop the aggression and support the people of Artsakh.
Letters
Last Friday, I sent a letter to Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue expressing my deep concerns over reports that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) continues to include letters signed by President Trump in boxes distributed through the Farmers to Families Food Box Program. In the letter, the President claims to prioritize families in need, however, in May, when unemployment rates rose highly throughout the country, he doubled down on efforts to limit access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps many families get the appropriate food and resources needed to support their families. Additionally, this letter is inappropriate as it is self-promoting and appears to be political in the lead up to the November election. This program should not be politicized, and the USDA should be focusing on providing real relief to the millions of Americans that need it.
I also joined a letter led by Rep. David McKinley (R-WV) and Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar urging HHS to change their guidelines to ensure all COVID-19 tests are free. When Congress passed the CARES Act in March, funding was allocated for COVID-19 testing, to ensure Americans who needed a test did not have to pay to do so. On June 23, 2020, HHS released new guidelines updating the testing terms, and limiting free tests to a small number of people. Under the new guidelines, HHS stated that tests can only be free if they are used to diagnose an active case of COVID-19. This would mean that tests for individuals who need to get cleared to go back to work, or those who have no symptoms but may want to get tested, would not be free. As cases of COVID-19 are on the rise again in our country we should be getting as many people tested as possible, not limiting access to free tests.
I joined colleagues in a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, led by Rep. TJ Cox (D-CA), urging the State Department to sanction Azerbaijani officials for human rights abuses. The September 27th invasion of Artsakh by Turkish and Azerbaijani forces has led to a known 500 total deaths and 3,000 properties destroyed, leaving many homeless. As Azerbaijan continues to escalate their aggression and violate a temporary ceasefire, we must punish those responsible and ensure they are head responsible for their actions.
Open Enrollment
On November 1, 2020, Open Enrollment for health care plans will begin in New Jersey. This year, instead of using the federal marketplace, New Jersey will switch to their own state-run marketplace. In order to browse health care plans you can visit: www.nj.gov/getcoverednj. Here you will be able to compare available plans, review financial assistance options, and select a plan that is best for you. This new marketplace is easy to use and helps to clearly identify plans that will be most beneficial to you. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial we leave no one behind and that everyone has access to affordable health care. If you need health care, be sure to visit the site. Open enrollment is open from November 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021.
With cases of COVID-19 continuing to rise across the country, it is imperative we remain vigilant and safe. Please continue to wear a mask in public and practice social distancing when possible. Working together, we can help slow the spread of this virus. Please know that I will continue working to get the 8th District the resources it needs. If you have questions or need assistance please call my Washington, D.C. office at (202)225-7919 and follow instructions to be connected to my staff or send an email to NJ8inquiries@mail.house.gov. Together we can get through this.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409026,Smith co-sponsors bipartisan bill to help struggling health & fitness industry,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Health and fitness centers trying to survive the COVID-19 pandemic that has devastated their industry could qualify for federal grants under HR 8485, the Health and Fitness Recovery Act of 2020, a new bill cosponsored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ).

    
        
            
        
    

 The wellness and fitness industry has been especially hard hit by the global pandemic caused by COVID-19, Smith said. Gyms and fitness facilities were ordered to shut down completely in March when stay-at-home orders began, and have only recently been able to reopen in New Jersey upon meeting strict criteria regarding air circulation and ventilation, frequent sanitization of all surfaces and equipment, and temperature and health checks for staff and clients. If these health and fitness businesses are forced to permanently close, their workers lose their jobs and the clients they serve will find it more difficult to maintain their physical, as well as mental, healthsomething that's so important to overall wellness. Both need to be paramount concerns as we continue to battle the ongoing public health emergency.
PHOTO: Rep. Smith and Kevin McHugh, CEO of the Atlantic Club in Wall Township, discuss the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the health and fitness center.
 The bill, introduced this month by Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Mike Quigley (D-IL), is a top priority for the International Health, Racquet &amp; Sportsclub Association (IHRSA). The Health and Fitness Recovery Act of 2020 would create a $30 billion recovery fund for gyms and health clubs, many of which are small businesses with an average of seven workers in an industry estimated to have employed over 700,000 in 2019. While some health clubs were able to qualify for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), many will face closure or bankruptcy unless Congress either authorizes a second round of PPP loans or passes HR 8485.
 Recipients of these grantswhich are capped at an actual business loss up to 10 percent of previous year's revenuewould be able to use the funds on payroll, rent or mortgage payment, personal protective equipment (PPE), or upgrades to their facility to comply with new requirements from the state or locality.
 Smith visited The Atlantic Club in Wall in September and saw firsthand the upgrades and lengthy efforts club owners and management have made to keep their staff and members.
 As of today, the bill had five bipartisan cosponsors with more expected to be added.
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http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409025,"<span class =""kicker"">Asbury Park Press Oct. 25 article on Smith announcement</span>'Whiting, Joint Base to be protected from wildfires by five-mile firebreak'",2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"By Amanda Oglesby, STAFF WRITER  
More wildfire protection is coming to the Roosevelt City section of Whiting, along the densely forested western side ofManchester, due to a$380,000 project by the U.S.Department of Defense.
The project will build a five-mile long firebreak, or stretch of land cleared of vegetation,in the forest between the Roosevelt City neighborhood and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, said U.S. Rep. Chris Smith R-N.J., whose Fourth Congressional District includes Manchester.
Whiting lies within the Pine Barrens, where dry, sandy soils and dense underbrush contribute to the region being one of the most fire-prone on the East Coast.
""This project protects America's only Army-Navy-Air Force joint base  the second largest employer in New Jersey  and the missions it performs,"" Smith said in a news release.""More importantly, it also protects the residents of Whiting. There are many homes and businesses concentrated in Whiting which will be better protected through this project.""




The funding is part of $1.9 million in Department of Defense spending in New Jersey for ""Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration."" Other projects funded by the program are:
 
    $500,000 for shoreline protection that will fund an oyster castle groin in Barnegat Bay near Island Beach State Park;
    $500,000 for storm surge protection atNaval Weapons Station Earlein Middletown;
    More than $100,000 for storm surge protection in Keansburg, near Earle;
    $300,000 to protect forests fromwildfire around the New Jersey National Guard Warren Grove Gunnery Range. In 2007, afire that started at the range consumedmore than 17,000 acres of forest anddestroyed five homesin Barnegat;
    $150,000 in storm water management infrastructure around the Lockheed Martin plant in Burlington County that producesAEGIS technology for the U.S. Navy.
 
PHOTOS ABOVE: To view a photo slide show of a 2019 wildfire that burned areas of Ocean and Burlington counties, click here, or on image above. Manchester Mayor Ken Palmer said in a statement that he welcomed the added fire protection for Whiting, the township's most heavily wooded neighborhood.
 Earlier:Whiting brush fire consumes 99 acres
""Certainly, any safety measure to assist in this area is appreciated and extremely useful,"" he said.
Roughly 7,000 acres of forest burn each year in New Jersey due to wildfire, according to the stateForest Fire Service.
Amanda Oglesby is an Ocean County native who covers Brick, Barnegat and Lacey townships as well as the environment. She has worked for the Press for more than a decade.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-supporting-artsakh-s-right-self-0,Pallone to Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Supporting Artsakhs Right to Self-Determination,2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), joined by a bipartisan group of 30 Members of the House of Representatives, will introduce a resolution supporting the Republic of Artsakh, recognizing its right to self-determination, and condemning Azerbaijan and Turkey for aggression.
The resolution focuses on the ongoing conflict raging in the South Caucuses after Azerbaijani and Turkish forces broke a long-standing ceasefire and invaded Artsakh on September 27. These ruthless attacks have led to the deaths of hundreds of soldiers and dozens of civilians in Artsakh and to the displacement of roughly half of its population. This is a direct result of Azerbaijan's confirmed use of hired mercenaries from Syria on the front lines, lethal drone strikes, and indiscriminate shelling  including the confirmed use of cluster munitions  against major population centers in an effort to force a quick surrender. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan and Turkey have declared on multiple occasions that they are unwilling to come back to the negotiating table under the auspices of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe's Minsk Group, which is co-chaired by the U.S., France, and Russia.
It is incredibly important for the House of Representatives to send a strong message of support for Artsakh and its people's bid for independence, especially on the eve of important meetings between the Armenian and Azerbaijani foreign ministers and Secretary of State Pompeo, said Pallone. The international community has folded to Azerbaijani and Turkish pressure for too long, ignoring their constant bombastic rhetoric and their blatant military buildup over the years. As this bloody conflict continues, we believe now is the time to finally acknowledge Artsakh's legitimate claims to independence on the world stage and grant formal recognition of their people's right to self-determination.
This resolution reflects the ongoing situation in the South Caucuses and takes a significant step in demonstrating Congressional support for the people of Artsakh during this difficult time. The United States must remain committed to immediately halting the ongoing fighting in Artsakh. In the process, we must also take bold steps toward holding Azerbaijan and Turkey accountable for their aggressions and toward producing a permanent solution that resolves Artsakh's status and security issues. The introduction of this resolution helps us along that path.
Current list of 30 cosponsors includes: Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Gus M. Bilirakis (FL-12), Adam B. Schiff (CA-28), Jackie Speier (CA-12) ), James P. McGovern (MA-03), Katherine Clark (MA-05), TJ Cox (CA-21), Tony Crdenas (CA-29), Jim Costa (CA-20), Grace Napolitano (CA-38), Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-14), Brenda Lawrence (MI-14), Brad Sherman (CA-27), David N. Cicilline (RI-01), John Sarbanes (MD-03), Jerrold Nadler (NY-10), Albio Sires (NJ-08), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Linda T. Snchez (CA-39), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Anna Eshoo (CA-14), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Zoe Lofgren (CA-16), Dina Titus NV-01), Grace Meng (NY-06) Bill Pascrell, Jr. (NJ-09), Thomas R. Suozzi (NY-03).
The resolution will be formally introduced on Friday, October 23. The full resolution can be found here.

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https://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/los-congresistas-sires-y-rooney-felicitan-al-presidente-electo-luis-arce,"Los congresistas Sires y Rooney felicitan al presidente electo Luis Arce, buscan lazos renovados entre Estados Unidos y Bolivia",2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Hoy, el congresista Albio Sires (D-NJ) y el congresista Francis Rooney (R-FL), presidente y miembro de alto rango, respectivamente, del Subcomit sobre el Hemisferio Occidental, Seguridad Civil y Comercio, emitieron el siguiente comunicado felicitando al pueblo boliviano por celebrar con xito elecciones pacficas y democrticas el 18 de octubre e instaron al presidente electo Luis Arce que busque relaciones slidas y de cooperacin con Estados Unidos.
Esta semana, el pueblo boliviano brind un modelo en el ejercicio de la democracia, dijeron los representantes Sires y Rooney. Un proceso electoral transparente y pacfico ha entregado un resultado en el que todas las partes del proceso poltico estuvieron dispuestas a aceptar. Felicitamos al presidente electo de Bolivia, Luis Arce, y esperamos que esta eleccin marque el comienzo de una nueva era para las relaciones entre Estados Unidos y Bolivia en la que nuestros pases puedan trabajar juntos una vez ms para promover nuestros intereses compartidos y promover la prosperidad, la democracia y los derechos humanos de los bolivianos.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z