url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-passing-of-president-jimmy-carter/,Gillibrand Statement On Passing Of President Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement on the death of President Jimmy Carter: “President Jimmy Carter was a devoted public servant, a lifelong activist, and a prolific humanitarian. I am devastated to hear of his passing, but I know that his legacy will live on through the work of the Carter Center and the thousands of people he influenced throughout his life. My thoughts are with his family today. He will be deeply missed.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/icymi-senator-gillibrand-on-nyts-the-daily-on-leading-the-charge-to-certify-the-equal-rights-amendment-enshrine-equality-in-the-constitution/,"ICYMI: Senator Gillibrand On NYT’s “The Daily” On Leading The Charge To Certify The Equal Rights Amendment, Enshrine Equality In The Constitution",2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"ICYMI: Senator Gillibrand On NYT’s “The Daily” On Leading The Charge To Certify The Equal Rights Amendment, Enshrine Equality In The Constitution Dec 23, 2024 In case you missed it, Senator Gillibrand was featured on the New York Times podcast “The Daily” about her efforts to persuade President Biden to direct the national archivist to certify and publish the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), which would enshrine equality and reproductive rights in the Constitution. Listen here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-announces-passage-of-key-provisions-of-her-legislation-to-address-epidemic-of-traumatic-brain-injuries-in-service-members-and-veterans/,Gillibrand Announces Passage Of Key Provisions Of Her Legislation To Address Epidemic Of Traumatic Brain Injuries In Service Members And Veterans,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, chair of the Senate Armed Services Emerging Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee, held a video press conference announcing that major provisions of her legislation to protect service members from traumatic brain injuries are included in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA passed the Senate this week. “For years, our service members have been sustaining severe and crippling brain trauma as a result of firing their own weapons, but the Department of Defense has failed to properly investigate or address their injuries,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I’m proud to have fought to get the core of my Blast Overpressure Safety Act included in this year’s NDAA to finally get service members the care they need. These provisions will require the DoD to investigate the prevalence of blast overpressure brain injuries, standardize care across the Department of Defense, and take steps to mitigate service members’ blast exposure. I look forward to seeing President Biden sign it into law.” Gillibrand introduced the Blast Overpressure Safety Act following a disturbing report showing that service members are sustaining crippling traumatic brain injuries as a result of repeated exposure to explosions from their own weapons and explosives – otherwise known as blast overpressure. These brain injuries can cause depression, anxiety, cognitive problems, hallucinations, panic attacks, violent outbursts, suicidal tendencies, psychiatric disorders, dementia, and a variety of other serious health problems. Specifically, the provisions of the Blast Overpressure Safety Act included in the NDAA would: Minimize exposure to blast overpressure by: Requiring the Secretary of Defense to establish limits for blast exposure and overpressure. Requiring modification of existing weapons systems to reduce blast exposure. Requiring performance parameters to minimize exposure to blast overpressure when drafting requirements for new weapons systems and new acquisitions programs. Improve treatment and access to care by: Establishing a standardized treatment program for blast overpressure and programs to encourage service members to seek TBI treatment. Establishing a brain health and trauma program to provide evaluations and treatment to service members who have been exposed to blast overpressure. Establishing a Defense Intrepid Network for TBI and Brain Health, which will provide care, standardize care, and support research related to TBI and brain health. Requiring a report on the Warfighter Brain Health Initiative that includes information on resources spent, number of impacted service members, and number of service members receiving treatment. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-exclusion-of-provision-for-world-trade-center-health-program-funding-in-end-of-year-spending-package/,Gillibrand Statement On Exclusion Of Provision For World Trade Center Health Program Funding In End-Of-Year Spending Package,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement on the exclusion of a provision to fund the World Trade Center Health Program in the end-of-year health extenders package: “I am deeply disappointed by the decision to not include the World Trade Center Health Program in the government funding bill. 9/11 responders and survivors are real people, not political chess pieces. Thousands of Americans risked their lives to protect our country in its darkest hour, and it is now our responsibility as members of Congress to be there for them as they continue to battle the horrific health ramifications from that day and the many days after.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-extension-of-buy-america-provisions-for-stainless-steel-flatware-in-annual-defense-bill-boosting-made-in-america-flatware-like-at-sherrill-manufacturing-in-oneida-county,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE EXTENSION OF BUY-AMERICA PROVISIONS FOR STAINLESS STEEL FLATWARE IN ANNUAL DEFENSE BILL, BOOSTING ‘MADE IN AMERICA’ FLATWARE LIKE AT SHERRILL MANUFACTURING IN ONEIDA...",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer And Gillibrand Deliver On Key Legislation Directing The Department of Defense (DoD) To Procure Stainless Steel Flatware and Dinnerware From Domestic Sources, Helping Drive New Growth At American Flatware Producers Such As Oneida County’s Sherrill Manufacturing Senators Say Extension Of ‘SPOONSS Act’ In Annual Defense Bill Will Restore Long-Standing Domestic Sourcing Requirements, Protecting Good-Paying Jobs In The Mohawk Valley Schumer, Gillibrand: The Bipartisan ‘SPOONSS Act’ Will Put A Fork In Unfair Foreign Competition From Countries Like China By Requiring Our Military To Purchase American-Made Dinnerware & Flatware From Companies Like Sherrill! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced they secured a key victory for Upstate New York in the final National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) that will extend the Support Procurement of our Nation’s Stainless Steel (SPOONSS) Act, reinstating the Berry Amendment’s long-standing Department of Defense domestic sourcing requirement for stainless steel flatware and dinnerware. Following Schumer’s and Gillibrand’s successful efforts to secure this extension in the Senate NDAA, they tirelessly worked to ensure it was included in the final bill which passed the Senate on December 18. Now that it’s been included in the must-pass legislation, SPOONSS is headed to the president’s desk before the year’s end. “Sherrill Manufacturing has produced the very finest, American-made flatware and dinnerware in Oneida County for generations, which is why I’ve long pushed for the United States government to use its buying power to support Sherrill’s world-class workers in the Mohawk Valley. Today, I am proud to say we’ve delivered on a genuine kitchen table issue for Mohawk Valley residents while also sticking a fork in unfair foreign competition from countries like China by requiring our military to purchase utensils and flatware from American manufacturers in this year’s national defense bill,” said Senator Schumer. “This is a win-win: our military will have the highest quality silverware available, made by hardworking Americans while boosting America’s only remaining flatware maker and the Mohawk Valley economy.” “I’m proud to have fought to get the SPOONSS Act included in this year’s NDAA to boost our domestic flatware manufacturers, who are truly a cut above. including Sherrill Manufacturing in the Mohawk Valley. I will continue fighting to ensure that our service members have the best equipment available and to support American manufacturing,” said Senator Gillibrand. Greg Owens, cofounder and CEO of Sherrill Manufacturing said, “We at Sherrill Manufacturing are grateful to Senator Schumer for his longstanding support of our company and this big win for our employees. Inclusion in the Berry Amendment will provide us with an opportunity to expand our government sales, increase employment, and continue to grow our American-made flatware business.” “The SPOONSS Act is key to unlocking new growth in the United States dinnerware and flatware manufacturing industry, which is proudly led by longtime MACNY member Sherrill Manufacturing in the Mohawk Valley,” said MACNY Executive Vice President Michael Frame. “As we focus on revitalizing and reshoring all facets of American manufacturing, we need legislation like SPOONSS to protect New York State companies from unfair competition. On behalf of the NYS manufacturing community, I extend my sincere appreciation to Majority Leader Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for renewing SPOONSS and supporting MACNY and its members.” According to Schumer and Gillibrand, Sherrill Manufacturing has long been a key supplier of stainless steel flatware for the United States Military, and their biggest government customer is currently the Navy. Unfortunately, in recent decades, the influx of cheap alternatives from state-subsidized foreign competitors in countries like China has made it difficult for domestic producers to compete on cost. Thanks to SPOONSS, Schumer and Gillibrand explained that the table is now set for Sherrill Manufacturing to ramp up their business with the feds, which the company hopes will drive new growth, investment, and jobs. In particular, the senators said the company has expressed interest in increasing sales of their stainless steel flatware to other branches of the military. The Department of Defense (DoD) was previously required to procure American-made stainless-steel flatware, but the requirement was repealed in the FY2007 NDAA due to supply chain shortages that proceeded to force the DoD to procure their flatware from foreign sources, namely China. However, domestic production of stainless-steel flatware and dinnerware has since bounced back, as demonstrated by the success of Oneida County’s Sherrill Manufacturing, located in Sherrill, NY, which produces several lines of flatware under the Liberty Tabletop brand and continues to grow its American workforce and revenue. To address this, Schumer and Gillibrand reinstated this requirement with the inclusion of the SPOONSS Act in the FY2020 NDAA, which expired in 2023. The senators said this new extension is a critical next step for the continued growth and success of American-made dinnerware and flatware produced by companies like Sherrill Manufacturing. With this most recent extension secured by Senators Schumer and Gillibrand that will go into effect one year after passage and sunset in 2029, DoD will once again be required to purchase American-made flatware for the Armed Forces. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-his-onshore-act-to-increase-fed_to-prepare-upstate-ny-industrial-sites-infrastructure-and-workforce-for-critical-supply-chains--like-semiconductors-and-clean-tech--has-passed-and-soon-will-be-signed-into-law,"SCHUMER ANNOUNCES HIS ONSHORE ACT TO INCREASE FED $$ TO PREPARE UPSTATE NY INDUSTRIAL SITES, INFRASTRUCTURE, & WORKFORCE FOR CRITICAL SUPPLY CHAINS – LIKE SEMICONDUCTORS AND CLEAN TECH – HAS PASSED...",2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Successfully Got The ONSHORE Act, Which He Pushed For Standing At Industrial Sites Across Upstate NY, Added To EDA Reauthorization, Which Is Now Headed To The President’s Desk The ONSHORE Act Creates New Fed Grant Program For Bringing Back Critical Supply Chains, Like Semiconductors And Clean Technology, By Improving Infrastructure And Workforce Training To Prepare More Industrial Sites For Investment Schumer: We Are Bringing Back Manufacturing From Overseas To Upstate NY, And The ONSHORE Act Will Help Boost Those Efforts After launching his push at industrial sites needing investment across Upstate NY, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced the bipartisan ONSHORE Act, which he successfully got included in the reauthorization of the Economic Development Administration, has just passed Congress and will soon be signed into law. Schumer said this will help provide much-needed federal support with site-readiness for bringing back supply chains, like semiconductors and clean technology, by helping breathe new life into industrial sites and increasing workforce development for communities across Upstate New York looking to maximize the benefits from the Schumer-crafted bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law, as well as from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. “Preparing shovel-ready sites with new infrastructure investment and workforce training is key to bringing manufacturing back to Upstate New York and creating jobs, jobs, jobs. I’m thrilled that the ONSHORE Act has passed and is on its way to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law and to start supercharging manufacturing across America,” said Senator Schumer. “I stood at industrial sites across Upstate New York from Buffalo’s former Bethlehem Steel site to Oswego’s Industrial Park and pushed for this bill because communities need this support to fully tap into the manufacturing boom now happening after legislation I led to passage – like the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law, the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law, and the Inflation Reduction Act. We have seen firsthand how having shovel-ready sites helped secure major private investments like Micron in Central New York and with the ONSHORE Act Upstate New York can tap into new funding opportunities to supercharge critical industries like chips, clean energy, and more. Today we take another step toward making sure the future of manufacturing is stamped ‘Made in America’ and putting Upstate New York at the forefront of those efforts.” “Reauthorization of the EDA after 20 years and with it the creation of Onshore Act is a significant and critical win for economic development efforts across the country and in New York State. The Onshore act will expedite timelines, creating much needed funding to build shovel ready sites across the country which will help bring good paying manufacturing jobs back to the United States and New York. This legislation would not have been possible without the leadership of Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a true economic development champion for New York State. I want to thank him and his team for their hard work in making sure this was passed into law. The NYSEDC was proud to work with IEDC and several other state associations to support this legislation which will give our members additional resources to attract the companies and careers of the future,” said Ryan Silva, Executive Director, New York State Economic Development Council. “There’s a reason Senator Schumer came to Renaissance Commerce Park in Erie County when he first announced his push for the ONSHORE Act. Legacy industrial sites, like Bethlehem Steel, present prime opportunities for rebirth and reinvestment,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “The ONSHORE Act will provide further federal support to make industrial sites shovel ready, and will support good paying jobs in manufacturing, new technology, and clean energy. I thank the Majority Leader for this legislation and for investing in American manufacturing.” ""ONSHORE Act funding will be critical in redeveloping brownfield and industrial sites, like the former Bethlehem Steel site in Lackawanna. Paving the way for job creation and advanced manufacturing investment at a critical time in our region,"" said John Cappellino, CEO Erie County Industrial Development Agency. “A big thank you to Senator Schumer and our federal representatives for providing this funding to address the lack of shovel ready sites, opening up new sites for manufacturing and jobs in our region.” Schumer explained that strengthening domestic manufacturing, especially for industries of the future, is critical for economic and national security. Following the passage of Schumer’s bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act and Inflation Reduction Act, as well as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law, companies from across industries have shown a renewed interest in bringing manufacturing back to the U.S. and rebuilding their supply chains in America, presenting a significant opportunity to revive manufacturing in Upstate New York. New federal investment included across these historic bills has attracted $1 trillion in private investment, bringing manufacturing back to America in critical industries like semiconductors and batteries, including over $110 billion in proposed private investment in in the chip industry across Upstate NY alone. However, one of the primary factors that affects where a new manufacturing facility is built is site-readiness, or whether a site has the basic infrastructure and workforce to enable a company to quickly begin construction on a facility and hire enough qualified workers to begin operations. Schumer said the Opportunities for Non-developed Sites to Have Opportunities to be Rehabilitated for Economic Development (ONSHORE) Act would provide much-needed federal support for preparing sites for new manufacturing investment. The Senate passed the legislation as part of the Economic Development Administration reauthorization that was included in the bipartisan, bicameral Water Resources Development Act. Specifically, the EDA reauthorization creates a new grant program to support site development or expansion projects for manufacturing industries critical to national or economic security, all of which is modeled on the ONSHORE Act. Through this program, EDA will assist with site and utility readiness, workforce development, distribution, and logistics, to prepare strategic mega sites and regionally impactful sites across places like Upstate NY for new industrial investment. The EDA funding would place an emphasis on building up the workforce through training and other support as a key priority for attracting and scaling new employers at these industrial sites, providing new federal resources for the pressing priority of workforce development. Schumer said Micron’s historic $100 billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab complex in Central New York is a proof positive example that with increased investment in shovel-ready sites and workforce development, the region could attract major manufacturing companies. Years of site preparation at the White Pine Commerce Park in Clay, NY was a major selling point in positioning the region to compete for Micron’s new investment and be home to an industrial project of this size and significance. Schumer said there are countless other examples across Upstate New York in which site development will lead to major investment, such as Wolfspeed’s opening of a new semiconductor manufacturing facility at Marcy Nanocenter after the shovel-ready site and advanced infrastructure attracted the manufacturer. The successful attraction of major new manufacturing investment to Western New York’s STAMP is another example, including Edwards Vacuum’s over $300 million, 600 job investment. Schumer explained that investment in the site readiness of New York industrial locations will further position the state to capitalize on the tremendous opportunity New York currently has to bring manufacturing jobs back to America and build resilient and robust supply chains right here at home. Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. Earlier this year Schumer secured a major $825 million federal investment to make Albany NanoTech the first National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) flagship facility and headquarters for extreme ultraviolet (EUV) research and development that is critical to the global chip industry. Micron has announced plans for a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory megafab in Central New York with the support of a finalized $6.1 billion CHIPS incentive award. GlobalFoundries plans to invest over $13 billion to expand in the U.S., including building a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in the Capital Region, with support from a finalized $1.5 billion CHIPS incentive award. Wolfspeed has opened a 200mm silicon carbide fabrication facility in the Mohawk Valley, one of the largest in the world, with a $750 million preliminary CHIPS agreement accelerating their ongoing expansion in the Mohawk Valley and boosting good-paying jobs expected to be created at the Marcy facility. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand its facilities in Onondaga County, supported by federal investment to strengthen domestic supply chains, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build their microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. In addition, Upstate New York is home to semiconductor supply chain companies like Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants. Recently, Schumer announced that Corning Incorporated reached a $32 million preliminary CHIPS agreement to make a $315 million investment that would increase production at their Canton facility of specialized glass vital for the semiconductor industry. Additionally, following Schumer’s advocacy, Edwards Vacuum has announced a $300+ million investment to build a dry pump manufacturing facility, made possible by a $18 million preliminary CHIPS agreement, creating 600 good-paying jobs to support the growing chip industry in Western New York. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-northern-border-regional-commission-reauthorization-passes-increasing-funding-and-expanding-north-countrys-and-upstate-nys-fed-grant-program-for-economic-development-infrastructure-healthcare-and-childcare,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE NORTHERN BORDER REGIONAL COMMISSION REAUTHORIZATION PASSES; INCREASING FUNDING AND EXPANDING NORTH COUNTRY’S & UPSTATE NY’S FED GRANT PROGRAM FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT,...",2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"New NBRC Bill Increases Funding & Expands Program That Has Delivered Millions For Econ Dev & Infrastructure Across Upstate NY To Bolster Healthcare And Childcare Access, Invest In Workforce, New Businesses And More; Also Makes Wyoming And Schoharie County Eligible For Inclusion Legislation Ensures NBRC Will Be Reauthorized For The Next 5 Years So North Country & Upstate NY Can Continue To Tap This Vital Program Schumer, Gillibrand: NBRC Will Continue To Deliver For North Country & Upstate NY For Years To Come! After years of advocacy, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced they have successfully reauthorized the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) for another 5 years, increasing funding and expanding the critical grant program that has delivered tens of millions of dollars for the North Country and Upstate NY. The legislation is now headed to the president’s desk where it will be signed into law. “The Northern Border Regional Commission has played a unique and pivotal role in spurring economic development, upgrading infrastructure, improving quality of life and creating jobs in communities across Upstate New York. After months of work, I’m proud that my bill reauthorizing the NBRC with increased funding is included in the bipartisan package that just passed the Senate and is headed to the president’s desk to be signed into law,” said Senator Schumer. “This bill will continue support for communities across Upstate NY to tap into millions in federal funding for addressing childcare and healthcare needs, boosting infrastructure projects, supporting workforce training, helping to launch and retain businesses, and more. I look forward to seeing this legislation signed into law so we can deliver much-needed resources for Upstate NY.” “The Northern Border Regional Commission has a proven track record of supporting projects that create jobs, develop our workforce, modernize our infrastructure, and catalyze economic growth across Upstate New York. I’m thrilled to have passed the bipartisan Northern Border Regional Commission Reauthorization Act to reauthorize the Commission so that it can continue to provide tens of millions of dollars for our north border communities for years to come,” said Senator Gillibrand. ""We worked with Senator Schumer and then-Congressman John McHugh on the original creation of the Northern Border Regional Commission and it has become an important program providing support for a range of economic and community development projects that often can't fit into other federal funding silos,"" said Garry Douglas, President of the North Country Chamber of Commerce. ""It will now continue to make a real difference in our region for at least another five years and we thank Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for their steady support. Onward and upward!"" In addition to reauthorizing the NBRC for an additional 5 years, the bill would also increase funding for the program from $33 million to $40 million. The bill makes critical enhancements to the range of projects the NBRC is able to support to foster growth in the region, including a new program focused on addressing childcare and healthcare needs, increasing support for addiction treatment, and new support for capacity building for business retention, job training, and job creation. The bill also will make Wyoming County and Schoharie County in NY eligible for inclusion to the program. The NBRC reauthorization was included as part of the Economic Development Administration reauthorization in the bipartisan, bicameral Water Resources Development Act, which is now on its way to the President’s desk to be signed into law. From 2010-2024, the NBRC has invested in over 78 projects, totaling more than $48 million in federal funding for Upstate New York. The senator explained that in addition to reauthorizing the NBRC for an additional 5 years, the bill increases the annual appropriation cap from $33 million to $40 million. Schumer introduced the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) Reauthorization Act of 2023 which paved the way for these key changes. Schumer has a long history of championing the Northern Border Regional Commission and its positive economic impacts on Upstate New York. In 2021, the senator successfully secured $150 million for the NBRC, over triple its funding from previous years, through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act. Established in 2008, the NBRC is a federal-state partnership focused on the economic revitalization of communities across the Northern Border region, which includes New York, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The Commission is composed of the governors of the four Northern Border states and a federal co-chair and provides financial and technical assistance to communities in the region to support entrepreneurs, improve water, broadband, and transportation infrastructure, and promote other initiatives to improve the region’s economy. The northern border region of New York State currently includes 28 counties: Cayuga, Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Genesee, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Montgomery, Niagara, Oneida, Orleans, Oswego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Seneca, St. Lawrence, Sullivan, Washington, Warren, Wayne, and Yates. Passage of the senators’ bill into law means that Schoharie and Wyoming Counties can now be included as well. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-secure-53-million-in-national-defense-bill-to-build-a-new-fire-station-for-the-watervliet-arsenal-firefighters,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND SECURE $53 MILLION IN NATIONAL DEFENSE BILL TO BUILD A NEW FIRE STATION FOR THE WATERVLIET ARSENAL FIREFIGHTERS",2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Watervliet Arsenal Firefighters Keep Troops Safe And Respond To Hundreds Of Calls A Year Helping Surrounding Communities, But Current Aging Fire Station Has Long Needed Upgrades To Meet Mission Requirements & Keep Firefighters Prepared For Emergencies Schumer, Gillibrand: Fed $$ For New Fire Station Is Critical To Ensure Safety At Watervliet Arsenal And Cap Region U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced they have secured a whopping $53 million to help build a new fire station for the Watervliet Arsenal firefighters in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The senators explained that the current fire station does not meet Army standards and is needed to continue providing lifesaving emergency services for both the Watervliet Arsenal and surrounding Capital Region communities. “Our Watervliet Arsenal firefighters risk their lives to keep both our troops and the surrounding Capital Region communities safe, and we need to make sure they have the resources and modern facilities to respond to emergencies. But their current aging fire station does not have enough space and has long needed upgrades to ensure they can continue their lifesaving services. That’s why I’m proud to come with good news just in time for Christmas: I just secured $53 million for a new fire station for the Watervliet Arsenal firefighters in the national defense bill,” said Senator Schumer. “Built during the War of 1812, the Watervliet Arsenal is the oldest continuously active Arsenal in the US and has been a pillar of America’s defense industrial base for more than 200 years, serving as the Department of Defense’s sole source for cannon tube production and providing much of the artillery to support our warfighters and foreign partners. But its fire station is woefully out-of-date putting people, assets, and our national security at risk. I’ll keep fighting to make sure this funding is included in the final funding bill so we can build a safer future for Watervliet Arsenal and the Capital Region.” “Watervliet firefighters risk their lives to protect their communities and the critical Watervliet Arsenal. We owe it to them to ensure they have top-of-the-line equipment and a state-of-the-art fire station. I’m proud to have fought to secure $53 million to build an entirely new station and will continue fighting to secure resources for New York’s first responders,” said Senator Gillibrand. The current fire station is presently the only emergency response force located on post. In addition to their emergency response mission on Arsenal grounds, the current fire station also provides emergency response to the local communities including Watervliet, Troy, Albany, Cohoes, and Green Island, conducting 386 mutual aid calls last year alone in the Capital Region. However—with the expansion of Watervliet Arsenal and the surge in manufacturing capacity, production rate, and workforce over the years—the current fire station has become too small and old to effectively meet its mission requirements. For instance, the size of the fire station does not provide sufficient storage space for all of the required emergency response apparatus onsite, resulting in significant delays in response times as personnel are forced to retrieve necessary equipment from various storage locations. Additionally, the current fire station is incapable of housing all fire department personnel when the department is at end strength, rendering first responders to reside in two different facilities located separately from their equipment while they’re on duty, placing responders at a tactical disadvantage and proliferating the risks to cohesion within response teams and responder and occupant safety alike. The senators explained that all together, these issues put a serious strain on the Watervliet Arsenal Fire Department, which protects and saves countless lives, homes, and businesses every year. The senators also warned that if funding for a new fire station at Watervliet Arsenal isn’t included in the full-year FY2025 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MILCON-VA) Appropriations package, these issues will grow and further impact the fire department’s operations as Watervliet Arsenal continues to modernize and expand its operations in support of revitalizing the Army’s organic industrial base. The senators explained that following their advocacy the funding was secured in the national defense bill – that both the Senate and House of Representatives agreed to this past weekend – in addition to both the Senate’s and the House of Representatives’ versions of the national budget bill. The new proposed facility will significantly reduce risks posed to personnel, civilians, and facilities such as toxic exposure, fires in manufacturing areas, and the need for emergency response at the fire station. The senators pledged to fight to make a final push and ensure this funding is included in the final annual budget bill. The senators previously announced $1.7 billion in federal funding for the Watervliet Arsenal – the largest investment in the facility’s 200+ year history – to upgrade and modernize the facility. Schumer said the Arsenal has played a vital role in America’s defense as the nation’s sole producer of large-bore cannons and other critical artillery, but for nearly half a century that rarely translated into funding for the 800 civilian employee workforce, often putting the future of the Arsenal in doubt. Constructed in 1813, the Watervliet Arsenal has played a vital role in America’s defense throughout its long history producing large caliber cannons, different-sized mortar tubes, and breeches for each. In addition, the facility has the capability to efficiently take on emergency projects, such as when it produced armor hardening kits for Humvees after they became targets of IED attacks in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 1991, during the Gulf War, the Army found it needed a more robust explosive device to reach Iraq’s deeply buried command and control bunkers. In just 23 days’ time, the Watervliet Arsenal developed and produced the first “Bunker Buster” bombs, by modifying Howitzer tubes into 5,000-pound bomb casings. But more than land, equipment, and buildings, the Arsenal represents thousands of great Americans who have proudly served their country since 1813 by supporting our nation’s warfighters and allies for over 200 years. Schumer is committed to supporting New York’s firefighters, earlier this year fighting to save the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Program. Schumer has delivered historic funding for Capital Region firefighters. For example, last year, the Troy and Saratoga Springs fire departments received nearly $8 million to hire 30 new firefighters. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-secures-increase-in-fed-assistance-for-lake-champlain-basin-program-in-just-passed-water-resource-development-act,SCHUMER SECURES INCREASE IN FED ASSISTANCE FOR LAKE CHAMPLAIN BASIN PROGRAM IN JUST-PASSED WATER RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT ACT,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Lake Champlain Basin Program, Which Helps Protect Watershed & Wildlife Across Region, Will Now Have Feds Cover 90% Cost Of Projects, Up From 65% Thanks To Schumer’s Efforts – WRDA Now Headed To President’s Desk To Be Signed Into Law A Win-Win-Win Says Schumer: Increasing Fed Funding, Saving Local Conservation Groups $$ And Protecting Lake Champlain U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced he secured a provision in the just-passed bipartisan Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) to increase the federal funding share in the Lake Champlain Basin Program. Schumer said this program provides vital federal assistance to projects dedicated to conservation in the Lake Champlain Region, and now thanks to this provision the feds will cover 90% of the cost, helping make the program more accessible to local partners and saving the funding of local conservation groups in Upstate NY. “Lake Champlain is one of the crown jewels of Upstate NY, and the Lake Champlain Basin Program is how we protect the natural beauty of Lake Champlain’s waters and wildlife that is essential to the region’s tourism economy. That is why I am proud to announce I have just secured a provision to increase the federal cost share of projects in this program to 90%. This is a win-win-win increasing federal funding, saving local conservation groups money, and protecting Lake Champlain,” said Senator Schumer. “More federal funding will be flowing supporting tourism and jobs on all sides of the lake’s expansive shores. I’ll keep fighting to ensure Lake Champlain remains an economic anchor for the Adirondack region’s outdoor-recreation economy and continues to inspire generations to come.” The Lake Champlain Basin Program supports New York and Vermont’s efforts to improve Lake Champlain’s water quality, support wildlife habitat, and enhance the environment. Previously eligible projects needed to be funded at least 35% from non-federal funding, but thanks to this Schumer-supported provision that is lowered to 10% which makes more projects eligible and affordable for local partners and means the feds now cover 90% of the cost. In addition, funding for the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, which the Lake Champlain Basin Program occasionally uses as the local sponsor match, can now be used for other preservation projects in the Lake Champlain Basin. Schumer has a long history of supporting the Lake Champlain Basin Program. Since winning his Senate seat in 1998 Schumer has cosponsored numerous bills to support the foundation, growth, and continued funding of the Lake Champlain Basin Program. Apart from fighting to secure the program funding through annual appropriations bills, Schumer also secured an additional $40 million in funding as part of his Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. This year he proudly cosponsored the Lake Champlain Basin Program Reauthorization of 2024 which authorizes the program for another 10 years with $55 million in funding – a $20 million increase. This funding is critical to restore, protect, and prevent pollution of the Lake Champlain ecosystem and also to plan response for climate-related disasters. Alongside local, State, and Federal governments, the Lake Champlain Basin program will be able to continue its mission while focusing administrative and planning measures to optimize the implementation of numerous programs while working with the EPA to make its grants more accessible to the local communities and dedicated partners on the shore. Senator Schumer pledged to continue fighting to keep funding for Lake Champlain flowing and - with the hard work and dedication of locals on the ground – and ensuring this ecosystem stays healthy and beautiful for generations to come. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/senators-gillibrand-and-blackburn-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-remove-the-tax-penalty-on-settlements-awards-and-judgments-paid-to-survivors-of-sexual-assault-and-sexual-harassment/,"Senators Gillibrand And Blackburn Introduce Bipartisan Legislation To Remove The Tax Penalty On Settlements, Awards, And Judgments Paid To Survivors Of Sexual Assault And Sexual Harassment",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Marsha Blackburn introduced the Tax Fairness for Survivors Act, a bipartisan and bicameral bill that would remove the federal tax penalty on settlements, awards, and judgments paid to survivors of sexual harassment and sexual assault. Current law exempts payments for damages due to physical and emotional injuries from physical injury cases from taxation. However, payments from sexual harassment and sexual assault lawsuits are taxed as income unless the survivor can prove that they received physical injuries, such as broken bones or bruises, during the incident. This can cause uncertainty in some cases regarding whether settlements from sexual assault or sexual harassment cases are taxed or not, causing additional anxiety for survivors. “It is unacceptable to force survivors of sexual assault and harassment to pay taxes on the compensation they rightfully deserve,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Tax Fairness for Survivors Act is commonsense legislation that will eliminate this tax burden, allowing survivors to focus on healing in the wake of their trauma. I am proud to introduce this legislation, and I will continue fighting to ensure that survivors of sexual assault and harassment are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.” “Survivors of sexual assault and sexual harassment should not be forced to pay taxes on compensation they receive as a result of the crime,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Tax Fairness for Survivors Act would ensure these courageous survivors do not have to bear the cost of unjust financial penalties.” Gillibrand and Blackburn’s introduction of the Tax Fairness for Survivors Act follows the introduction of the same legislation in the House of Representatives by Reps. Lois Frankel (D-FL-22) and Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24) in August. The bill is endorsed by the National Alliance to End Sexual Violence and Lift Our Voices. “Survivors of sexual harassment and assault deserve fair treatment under the law,” said Representative Frankel. “It is unacceptable for a woman who has been raped, who endures immense pain and trauma, or who had to quit her job to escape harassment, to face further tax burdens on the compensation she rightfully deserves. This bill ensures survivors receive equal treatment regarding their payments.” “Survivors of assault have already endured the unimaginable; they should not face tax penalties on monetary settlements obtained in their pursuit of justice. This commonsense bill closes an unfair loophole in our tax code by exempting settlements and judgments from sexual harassment or assault claims from income taxes, aligning the tax treatment of these settlements with physical injury settlements and ensuring survivors are not further penalized,” said Congresswoman Tenney. The full text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-wool-trust-fund-vital-to-keep-hundreds-of-rochester-union-workers-jobs-safe-at-rochester-tailored-clothing-factory-extended-for-additional-year-in-end-of-year-budget-bill,"SCHUMER ANNOUNCES WOOL TRUST FUND, VITAL TO KEEP HUNDREDS OF ROCHESTER UNION WORKERS JOBS SAFE AT ROCHESTER TAILORED CLOTHING FACTORY, EXTENDED FOR ADDITIONAL YEAR IN END-OF-YEAR BUDGET BILL",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Wool Trust Fund Payments Are Critical For American Textile Factories To Stay Competitive, Like At The Formerly-Known Hickey Freeman Factory, By Providing Crucial Tariff Relief After Tom James Co. Took Over Rochester Factory Senator Vowed To Save Program That Is Vital To Their Business And Now Secured One-Year Extension Of Wool Trust Fund In End-Of-Year Budget Bill Schumer: Wool Trust Fund Will Help Protect Hundreds Of Jobs At Rochester’s Iconic 113-Year-Old Factory U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced he has successfully protected the Wool Trust Fund securing a one-year extension, which Rochester’s iconic 113-year old Rochester Tailored Clothing’ factory, formerly known as Hickey Freeman, relies on for crucial tariff relief. The provisions has been included in the end of year spending bill which will be voted on later this week. The tariff relief is essential for the factory to keep its manufacturing operations and 207 workers, including 181 union employees, in Rochester by keeping its costs commensurate with overseas competitors that are not subject to these tariffs. “The Wool Trust Fund is vital to creating a level playing field for this 113-year old Rochester institution and its signature ‘Made in the USA’ world-class clothing. I’m proud to announce I just secured a one-year extension of this fund in this year’s end-of-year legislation to support the factory’s world-class over 200 majority-union workforce making some of the best suits in the country,” said Senator Schumer. “This is a major victory for the Rochester Tailored Clothing factory, its wonderful workers, and the Rochester community. With another year of the Wool Trust Fund, this factory can continue to compete with foreign competitors, to keep their manufacturing and hundreds of jobs in Rochester.” Schumer added, “When I visited this Rochester facility a few years ago and walked the floor alongside the factory’s hardworking employees, many of whom have worked there for decades, I committed to making sure their future was secure for years to come. I made a personal appeal to the Tom James Co. CEO to get them to help take over this institution that is woven into the very fabric of the community, and I promised to promote the legislation they needed to provide stability to their workforce. With the Wool Trust Fund now secured for another year we are ensuring this factory will continue to sew Rochester pride for years to come.” Schumer explained that companies like Rochester Tailored Clothing are eligible recipients of the USDA’s Wool Trust Fund which compensates the domestic suit industry for the competitive disadvantage that results from an unfair “tariff inversion” where the duty on the imported finished product is lower than the duty on the inputs used to make the product here at home. The program is essential to put companies like Rochester Tailored Clothing back on a level playing field with overseas suit competitors who import suits into the U.S. without ever having to pay the same wool duties as U.S. suit producers. Without the Wool Trust Fund, the Rochester factory’s overseas competitors would have an unfair leg-up while putting our own U.S. manufacturers like the 113-year old Rochester factory in the lurch for making suits in the United States. Todd Browne, CEO of Tom James Company and Rochester Tailored Clothing said, “Rochester Tailored Clothing is immensely grateful for the significant and meaningful work by Senator Schumer to secure inclusion of the Wool Apparel Manufacturing Trust Fund in this year’s farm bill extension. The Wool Trust is absolutely essential to supporting American manufacturing by helping level the playing field against foreign competitors. It allows the men and women of Rochester Tailored Clothing to compete fairly on the merits of our garments with any product made anywhere in the world. If it were not for the decades of steadfast leadership by Senator Schumer, we would not be able to continue making such fine clothes in America."" Gary Bonadonna, Jr. Workers United Rochester Regional Joint Board Manager said, “We appreciate Senator Schumer going to bat for our members once again and working to keep the Rochester Tailored Clothing factory in business and our hundreds of skilled members on the job. This is not just another factory, and this is not just another job. This is an iconic business with a strong labor union representing its employees who have committed their lives to this factory and take tremendous pride in their craft.” In 2014, Schumer was instrumental in first securing legislation in that year’s federal Farm Bill to extend the Wool Trust Fund’s authorization for five years through 2019 and to secondly restore adequate trust fund payment levels to address several years when the Trust was underfunded. In December 2018, Schumer secured the provision in the federal Farm Bill that fully funded the federal Wool Trust Fund program through 2023 which has saved the Rochester factory as much as $3 million a year in relief from unfair tariffs. The Wool Trust Fund was set to expire in 2019, and while the House of Representatives’ version of the Farm Bill included a provision to extend the trust fund until 2023 it also called for the Fund to be cut by 50% which would have jeopardized the viability of Rochester’s factory. Fortunately, Schumer secured a provision in the Senate’s version of the Farm Bill, and the final bill that was signed into law in December 2018 not only extended the Trust Fund program until 2023 but also fully funded it at 100%. When the 2018 Farm Bill was set to expire at the end of last year, Schumer was instrumental in securing an additional year of funding for the Wool Trust Fund and other “orphan” programs that did not have dedicated funding in the baseline of the Farm Bill. As a result of these efforts, Rochester’s factory is one of the few remaining US-based suit and apparel manufacturers. Schumer has long fought to keep Hickey Freeman in business in Rochester. In 2023, Schumer made a personal appeal to U.S. apparel company Tom James and its CEO Todd Browne after the Rochester factory was put up for sale following the prior owner’s difficulties. Tom James agreed to Schumer’s call to move forward with plans to take over the factory and provide stability and growth for this long-time Rochester facility and its over 200 member workforce. In 2009, when Hickey Freeman’s parent company at the time, Hartmarx, declared bankruptcy, threatening a liquidation and closure of the Rochester factory, Schumer led the charge to save this factory. Schumer successfully urged Hartmarx’s creditor, Wells Fargo, to keep providing Hartmarx with the credit they needed to continue manufacturing jobs in Rochester, saving hundreds of jobs. Ultimately, in 2012 Schumer helped save Hickey Freeman from bankruptcy, by working with new owners that kept the Rochester factory in business. Tom James Co., founded in 1966 and 100% employee-owned is the largest custom clothing manufacturer in the world. Headquartered in the U.S., the company employs 3,000 workers across 13 factories including 10 U.S. factories in which workers are members of the Workers United union – the same union that represents the Rochester factory workforce. The Rochester factory is Tom James Co.’s 10th domestic manufacturing facility and the business has been in continuous operation in Rochester since its founding in 1899. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-20-million-for-capital-region-to-boost-community-preparedness-and-resiliency-for-disasters-and-extreme-weather,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE $20 MILLION FOR CAPITAL REGION TO BOOST COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS AND RESILIENCY FOR DISASTERS & EXTREME WEATHER",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Funding From Inflation Reduction Act Schumer Championed As Majority Leader Will Help Bolster Extreme Weather And Climate Resiliency Hubs In Albany’s Most Vulnerable Neighborhoods Trinity Alliance Of The Capital Region And Other Local Environmental Justice Groups Will Also Work Together To Strengthen Local Workforce Training And Other Projects To Help Families Lower Energy Costs & Fight Climate Change Locally Schumer, Gillibrand: Our Inflation Reduction Act Is Delivering To Help Keep Albany Safe During Emergencies And Reduce Energy Costs! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $20 million via the Inflation Reduction Act for the ALL(bany) Together - Climate and Health Resilience Equity Project spearheaded by Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region to support emergency response and extreme weather hubs to keep Albany neighborhoods safe. The senators said the project will also support local workforce training energy efficiency upgrades, and energy-related trades to help families lower costs and other environmental justice projects to fight climate change locally. “I championed the Inflation Reduction Act, the single largest investment in environmental and climate justice in history, because we need to invest in communities like Albany to give them both the resources and the skills to combat climate change locally–not to mention new tools to hold down energy costs. I am proud to deliver this major up to $20 million federal investment to make Albany neighborhoods more resilient and prepared in emergencies like snowstorms, flooding, heatwaves, and give people the hands on training they need to enter clean energy careers,” said Senator Schumer. “This is a win-win: making Albany stronger in the face of emergencies and boosting workforce training for good paying clean energy jobs. This will help build a cleaner, greener, and more resilient future for the Capital Region.” “All New Yorkers should have access to life-saving resources during emergencies,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I’m proud to announce this $20 million in federal funding, made available through the Inflation Reduction Act, which will help keep Albany residents safe, train local workers for good-paying jobs, and boost the Capitol Region’s climate resiliency. I will continue fighting to ensure that communities across New York have the services they need to combat climate-related emergencies and pave the way for a greener future.” Schumer and Gillibrand explained that Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region will use its $10 million share of the award to construct the Southern Community Resilience Hub, and $3.5 million will go to the Underground Railroad Education Center to construct the Northern Community Resilience Hub. $6.5 million will help increase opportunities for accessible workforce training, invest in green infrastructure, increase community composting, and work with local building trades professional and general contractors to conduct home energy audits, home inspections, and remediate indoor pollution. This project will increase resilience to extreme weather events among Albany's most vulnerable neighborhoods for generations thanks to improved infrastructure, disaster preparedness training, and reduced chronic exposure to indoor pollutants. Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, “When the City of Albany awarded Trinity Alliance $1.7 million of our American Rescue Plan Funding allocation, we knew the much-needed investment was a significant first step to help improve their facilities and expand the scope and reach of their services. Since then Trinity Alliance, under the leadership of Harris Oberlander, has been working hard to secure even more funding to make their entire strategic plan a reality. Thanks to the leadership and advocacy of Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, this $20 million grant for Trinity Alliance is a transformational investment in one of the South End’s most important community organizations — all in an effort to better serve the residents of the City of Albany. We are proud the City of Albany‘s ARPA grant to Trinity Alliance helped leverage an additional investment that increased the impact ten-fold — a domino effect of investment in our community that we all aimed for when the American Rescue Plan Act was first passed. Trinity Alliance is a prime example of how President Biden’s and Vice President Harris’ American Rescue Plan, coupled by the advocacy of Senate Majority Leader Schumer, Senator Gillibrand, and Congressman Tonko, and a comprehensive partnership at every level of government is making a historic impact on our city, and will continue to do so far into the future.” Schumer fought to secure $2 billion to create the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grants Program in the historic Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The program helps disadvantaged communities tackle environmental and climate justice challenges through projects that reduce pollution, build climate resilience, and help achieve climate justice. These place-based investments will be focused on community-driven initiatives to be responsive to community and stakeholder input. They are designed to deliver on the transformative potential of the IRA for communities most adversely and disproportionately impacted by climate change, legacy pollution, and historical disinvestments. To learn more, click here. Schumer has long been a supporter of the ALL(bany) Together project, writing a letter to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan earlier this year and personally calling the Administrator supporting this project. Schumer’s letter can be found here. “This grant money will go far toward transforming downtown Albany, strengthening and supporting a marginalized community that for far too long has been overlooked,” said Harris Oberlander, CEO of the nonprofit Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region. “Trinity and its partners are grateful to Sen. Schumer for creating an initiative that will build neighborhood assets and pay dividends immediately and far into the future.'' ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-permanent-fed-funding-fix-for-world-trade-center-health-program-to-resolve-funding-shortfall-which-supports-9/11-heroes-with-ongoing-health-issues-in-end-of-year-budget,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE PERMANENT FED FUNDING FIX FOR WORLD TRADE CENTER HEALTH PROGRAM TO RESOLVE FUNDING SHORTFALL WHICH SUPPORTS 9/11 HEROES WITH ONGOING HEALTH ISSUES IN END OF YEAR BUDGET",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer And Gillibrand Have Long Fought For Continued Funds To Support First Responders And Others With Long-Term Health Issues Stemming From 9/11 Terror Attack Senators Explain They Secured Funding In Upcoming Budget Bill That Congress Will Vote On This Week Schumer, Gillibrand: This Funding Fix Ensures 9/11 Heroes Never Have To Worry About Getting The Health Care They Need U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced he has secured permanent federal funding to support 9/11 first responders and survivors as part of the end-of-year federal budget bill. The senators explained that even 23 years after the attack many New Yorkers are still being diagnosed with 9/11-related health problems. The program was likely to start running at a deficit in a few years unless more funds were added due to more people who have developed health issues related to the 2001 attack in New York and new responders and survivors who continue to become sick from 9/11-related conditions. “We have seen the emotional toll the healthcare funding crisis has taken on our 9/11 heroes. I’m proud to share I’ve secured billions in federal funding to keep this program funded permanently so 9/11 first responders and survivors can continue receiving the care they deserve,” said Senator Schumer. “From the moment of the attack, brave first responders and everyday folks made a sacrifice on that day – and in the months that followed – that honored their country. I always said that I would not rest until the victims of 9/11 knew that whenever they needed care, that care would be there for them. Now, with the permanent funding of the World Trade Center Health Program, I’m thrilled to say we are eliminating funding cliffs for this program once and for all to ensure survivors will always receive the care they need.” ""I'm thrilled that the end-of-year health extenders package includes a provision regarding funding for the World Trade Center Health Program that will help prevent a funding shortfall for years to come. This change solves our current projected funding deficit that would have forced cuts to program services in as little as 3 years and harmed 9/11 responders and survivors. This new formula, which will begin in 2026, provides substantially more funding and peace of mind for responders and survivors currently participating in the vital services the World Trade Center Health Program provides,"" said Senator Gillibrand. The senators said after years of securing short-term funding for the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) he has finally secured permanent funding. The WTCHP helps pay for first responders diagnosed with conditions related to their service on 9/11 but needs more funds to continue supporting first responders with rising health needs. The senators explained that the funding dilemma has been solved—before it became a crisis—by attaching the funds to this year’s end-of-year federal budget bill. The WTCHP program covers the medical expenses for WTC-related health conditions, including many types of cancers. The fund was established in 2011 as part of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act and was originally funded for five years for $1.6 billion. The program was reauthorized in 2015 and extended through 2090 with bipartisan support. In 2022, Schumer and Gillibrand delivered $1 billion for the WTCHP in the end-of-year spending bill, and in 2023, the senator secured an additional $676 million for the program. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-kennedy_with-push-buffalo--announce-20-million-to-boost-community-preparedness-and-resiliency-for-disasters-and-extreme-weather,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, KENNEDY – WITH PUSH BUFFALO – ANNOUNCE $20 MILLION TO BOOST COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS AND RESILIENCY FOR DISASTERS AND EXTREME WEATHER",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Funding From Inflation Reduction Act Schumer Championed As Majority Leader Will Help Create Mobilization Hubs For Neighborhoods To Be Prepared For Emergencies With Equipment Like Backup Generators, Snow Removal Equipment, Portable Solar Kits, Batteries, Walkie-Talkies, And More PUSH Buffalo, CoNECT, And Other Local Environmental Justice Groups Will Also Work Together To Strengthen Local Workforce Training In Solar Install & Energy Efficiency Upgrades To Fight Climate Change Locally & Help Families Lower Energy Costs Schumer, Gillibrand, Kennedy: Our Inflation Reduction Act Is Delivering To Help Keep Buffalonians Safe During Emergencies And Reduce Energy Costs! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, U.S. Congressman Tim Kennedy along with PUSH Buffalo and a coalition of other Western NY environmental justice groups announced $20 million via the Inflation Reduction Act for Erie County’s Buffalo Neighborhood Mobilization Hubs Plan, which will support emergency response and extreme weather hubs and bring emergency preparedness resources to neighborhoods across Buffalo. The lawmakers said the project will also support local workforce training initiatives for solar installation, energy efficiency upgrades, and other energy-related trades to help families lower costs and fight climate change locally. “I’m championed the Inflation Reduction Act, the single largest investment in environmental and climate justice in history, because we need to invest in communities like Buffalo to give them both the resources and the skills to combat climate change locally – not to mention new tools to hold down energy costs. I am proud to deliver this major up to $20 million federal investment to make neighborhoods across Buffalo more resilient, keep people prepared in emergencies like snowstorms, flooding and heatwaves, and give people the tools to enter clean-energy careers,” said Senator Schumer. “This is a win-win: making Buffalo neighborhoods stronger in the face of emergencies and boosting workforce training for good paying clean-energy jobs. This will help build a cleaner, greener and more resilient future for Western NY.” “No one should be without access to critical support services during an emergency,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I’m proud to announce this federal funding, which will help make sure that residents of Buffalo have access to the resources they need during climate-related crises. I’m committed to building on this initiative, and I will continue working to guarantee that communities across New York have the services they need to combat the growing number of climate-related emergencies striking our state.” “In times of crisis, many communities in Buffalo face acute challenges that require big ideas and teamwork,” said Congressman Kennedy. “PUSH Buffalo and CoNECT have demonstrated their ability to meet the needs of vulnerable neighborhoods by providing resources and support. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, this $20 million grant will empower this coalition to create 150 Neighborhood Mobilization Hubs, which will include emergency equipment to ensure communities are prepared for storms and other emergencies. This program will also invest in workforce training that will give people the tools required to increase community resilience, secure good-paying jobs, and strengthen our economy. This is an important step in making communities in Buffalo more equitably prepared for emergencies—improving and saving lives.” Schumer fought to secure $2 billion to create the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Community Change Grants Program in the historic Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The program helps disadvantaged communities tackle environmental and climate justice challenges through projects that reduce pollution, build climate resilience, and help achieve climate justice. These place-based investments will be focused on community-driven initiatives to be responsive to community and stakeholder input. They are designed to deliver on the transformative potential of the IRA for communities most adversely and disproportionately impacted by climate change, legacy pollution, and historical disinvestments. To learn more, click here. The Buffalo Neighborhood Mobilization Hubs Plan aims to create Community Resilience Hubs across Erie County to provide disadvantaged communities access to portable solar kits, batteries, walkie-talkies, backup generators, and other emergency equipment in emergencies. The project will purchase portable network kits, solar kits to power them, wired internet access, and other devices will be stored at Community Tech Labs. The project will additionally support local workforce training in solar installation, energy efficiency upgrades, and other trades and conduct outreach to potential employers. Project partners include Just Solutions Collective, Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition, Clean Air Coalition of WNY, University at Buffalo, Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, City of Buffalo- Department of Citizen Services, Erie County- Department of Health Equity. Rahwa Ghirmatzion, Senior Fellow at the Just Solutions Collective will provided strategy and overall project management. “The Community Change Grant represents a turning point for climate resilience and environmental justice for frontline communities in the City of Buffalo. We celebrate President Biden’s investment in self-determined solutions and grassroots leadership right here in our own neighborhoods, and the Environmental Protection Agency’s commitment to climate justice. We will use this three-year award to develop and implement neighborhood-focused solutions and strategies that live into the People’s Climate Law (New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, or CLCPA, passed in 2019). These programs and services will directly address the unique needs of each neighborhood, and be implemented in collaborative, collective action,” said Dawn Wells-Clyburn, Executive Director of PUSH Buffalo. “We are excited to launch this vital project to support community-led efforts in collaboration with government partners as we work towards health equity and environmental resiliency in Buffalo,” said Jessica Bauer Walker, Executive Director of CoNECT. “We are so pleased to have selected the Buffalo Neighborhood Mobilization Hubs Plan (PUSH Buffalo) to receive funding to help support their amazing work,” said Lisa F. Garcia. “These EPA investments will advance local, on-the-ground projects that reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and build community capacity.” “Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition is deeply grateful to the EPA for its investment in this innovative and collaborative community effort to heal and restore our neighborhoods and work towards building a healthy and sustainable Buffalo, where everyone can work, play, learn, live, and thrive,” said Dina Thompson, Executive Director, Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition. “We are grateful to President Biden for listening to climate justice leaders on their decades-long fight to address the worst impacts of climate change in our communities. The Communities Change grant is meant to catalyze investments on the frontlines to pave the way for a just and equitable clean energy transition,” said Rahwa Ghirmatzion, Project Manager. ""Clean Air welcomes the EPA's tremendous investment in climate resiliency, led by and for the Buffalo community. Our work on the front lines of the climate crisis has highlighted the need for neighborhood-level resiliency, and we are proud to partner in this crucial effort,"" said Chris Murawski, Executive Director, Clean Air Coalition. “We are grateful to President Biden and Senator Chuck Schumer for listening to climate justice leaders on their decades-long fight to address the worst impacts of climate change in our communities. The Communities Change grant is meant to catalyze investments on the frontlines to pave the way for a just and equitable clean energy transition,” said Rahwa Ghirmatzion, Project Manager. ""The University at Buffalo College of Arts and Sciences is excited to be collaborating with PUSH Buffalo and other partners on this resilience-building project in Buffalo. We look forward to supporting the students and faculty funded by this grant and are excited to witness the impact that it will make locally and throughout the region,"" said Robin G. Schulze, dean of the UB College of Arts and Sciences. “It’s been two years since the Christmas Blizzard and other storms that dropped seven feet of snow hit Buffalo and Erie County . My administration continues to work tirelessly to prepare residents for all emergencies, especially winter storms that are increasing in frequency and intensity,” said Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz. “Thanks to Majority Leader Schumer, Senator Gillibrand, and Congressman Tim Kennedy, these EPA funds will allow us to coordinate with PUSH Buffalo and the City of Buffalo to continue that work and meet residents where they are to save lives and build community resilience.” About PUSH Buffalo and CoNECT PUSH Buffalo and CoNECT each have extensive experience working to engage the local community and outreach to disadvantaged residents. PUSH and CoNECT co-founded ANCHOR (Assisting Needs for Community Health, Opportunity, and Resiliency) as a community-based coalition in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, to function as a bridge between systems, sectors, organizations, grassroots efforts, and community members. Their mission is to remove barriers and build up support to help Buffalo’s most vulnerable neighborhoods that disproportionately face the first and worst impacts of any acute events, including pandemics, mass shootings, and extreme weather. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-in-response-to-national-archivists-refusal-to-certify-the-equal-rights-amendment/,Gillibrand Statement In Response To National Archivist’s Refusal To Certify The Equal Rights Amendment,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement following the archivist’s refusal to certify the Equal Rights Amendment: “The archivist is correct that she has a responsibility to uphold the law. Unfortunately, by refusing to certify the ERA, she is wrongfully inserting herself into a clear constitutional process, despite the fact that her role is purely ministerial. The archivist’s arguments on the ratification process for the Equal Rights Amendment are deeply flawed in multiple ways. First, the 2022 Office of Legal Counsel memo did not affirm that a deadline was valid and enforceable; rather, it said that the deadline remained an open legal question. Furthermore, it should be obvious that the Trump administration’s 2020 OLC memo was a political document, given its departure from prior OLC opinions and its problematic reliance on superseded and invalid precedent. Clearly, it was issued as an attempt to kill the ERA after it had met the necessary requirements for certification. Finally, the simple truth is that OLC memos are advisory in nature and can easily be disregarded by the current administration. Second, the statement mischaracterizes the district and circuit court decisions, which did not affirm that the ratification deadlines set by Congress were valid. In reality, the district court found that the parties lacked standing, and the circuit court found that the standard for injunctive relief was not met. Third, there is no shortage of precedent demonstrating that so-called deadlines in the preamble of legislation—not in the text itself—are inoperative. In fact, the Constitution does not grant Congress the power to set ratification deadlines for amendments at all, nor does it include any timeliness requirement of its own. A previous archivist certified and published an amendment written more than two hundred years before its ratification. Our argument has strong support from legal experts, twenty-three attorneys general, and the American Bar Association. I continue to urge President Biden to direct the archivist to certify and publish the ERA and enshrine equality for all in the Constitution.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-inclusion-of-provision-for-world-trade-center-health-program-funding-in-end-of-year-spending-package/,Gillibrand Statement On Inclusion Of Provision For World Trade Center Health Program Funding In End-Of-Year Spending Package,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement on the inclusion of a provision to fund the World Trade Center Health Program in the end-of-year health extenders package: “I’m thrilled that the end-of-year health extenders package includes a provision regarding funding for the World Trade Center Health Program that will help prevent a funding shortfall for years to come. This change solves our current projected funding deficit that would have forced cuts to program services in as little as 3 years and harmed 9/11 responders and survivors. This new formula, which will begin in 2026, provides substantially more funding and peace of mind for responders and survivors currently participating in the vital services the World Trade Center Health Program provides.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gets-greenlight-for-utica-following-his-push-senator-secures-18-million-to-fix-uticas-infamously-outdated-traffic-signals-and-make-safety-upgrades-along-genesee-street,"SCHUMER GETS GREENLIGHT FOR UTICA! FOLLOWING HIS PUSH, SENATOR SECURES $1.8+ MILLION TO FIX UTICA’S INFAMOUSLY OUTDATED TRAFFIC SIGNALS AND MAKE SAFETY UPGRADES ALONG GENESEE STREET",2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Utica Has Been Trying For Years To Pilot A Network of Smart Traffic Signals Along Genesee Street – Which Is Heavily Traveled Each Day By Thousands Of Vehicles & Pedestrians – And Feds Finally Deliver Funding Needed Following Schumer’s Advocacy & Personal Call To Secretary Buttigieg Funding Comes From U.S. Transportation Department’s Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Program Created By Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law Schumer Led To Passage In Senate Schumer: New Traffic Lights Put Utica In Fast Lane For Less Traffic & Safer Future Following his push earlier this year, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced he has secured $1,809,957 via the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to fix the infamous and outdated Genesee Street traffic signals in the City of Utica. Schumer said Utica plans to pilot the latest in smart-traffic signals along Genesee Street, which local officials say will reduce traffic and accidents while strengthening safety for motorists and pedestrians along this busy corridor. “I’m proud to announce the feds have officially greenlit funding to fix traffic lights on Utica’s Genesee Street! Every Utican knows that these traffic lights can be frustrating and outright dangerous and for years the City of Utica has been developing a plan to fix it. That’s why I urged U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg for funding to increase safety in Utica & revamp this corridor with a new network of cutting-edge, smart-traffic signals,” said Senator Schumer. “New traffic lights are putting Utica in the fast lane to decrease traffic, accidents, and wait times. I created the Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation grant program in my Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law because I knew we have the technology to pave the way for a smoother and safer commute for all, and I’m thrilled that it’s delivering for Utica today.” Michael P. Galime, Mayor, City of Utica said, “Senator Schumer’s unwavering commitment to this long-overlooked issue has paved the way for a transformative moment in Utica’s history. With the award of the SMART grant pilot funding, we are now poised to implement state-of-the-art smart grid technology along Genesee Street—marking the beginning of a comprehensive modernization of Utica’s signaling infrastructure. This milestone signals a brighter future for our city, enhancing public safety, improving community well-being, and laying the groundwork for a fully connected smart grid system. As Utica experiences a renaissance of redevelopment, these advancements are a critical step toward a more efficient, sustainable, and thriving urban center.” Schumer said this federal funding allows the City of Utica to move forward with plans to upgrade its traffic signals. Schumer said the aging stop lights on Genesee Street have plagued Utica residents for years. Phase one of the city’s planned multi-phase upgrade was completed in 2012, but unfortunately officials later reported that there was not enough funding for traffic signal synchronization or timing. Over a decade later, many Genesee Street traffic signals are still out-of-time and frustrating Uticans every day. It can take 15 minutes or more to travel the length of Genesee Street in a car, causing traffic delays that drive vehicles off the city’s main drag and onto side streets. This federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) grant program, which was created by his Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. Schumer personally called U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg advocating for the project and followed up with a letter that can be found here. With funding, Schumer said Utica will be able to install and pilot dozens of new, state-of-the-art, smart traffic signals along a 2-mile street of Genesee Street and a continuous 5-block offshoot of Bleecker and Elizabeth Streets, supporting key partner locations like Utica Fire Station #2, Utica’s nationally recognized refugee agency (The Center), Utica’s public transit hub (CENTRO), the Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, and more. Utica’s smart traffic signals will include long sought after synchronization, connectivity, and other smart city features, including: Emergency preemption with multi-level right of way for fire, police, snowplow, and transit vehicles 360-degree video detection for vehicles and pedestrians Pedestrian crossing accessibility features, such as audio / visual cues and passive detection Data collection and analysis tools to enhance planning, engineering, management and traffic study According to the NYS Sheriff’s Association, 38% of pedestrian-involved crashes and nearly 20% of all crashes in the City of Utica occur along this corridor. Schumer highlighted that the city expects new smart signals to have a wide range of benefits, including improving emergency response times, reducing traffic and wait times at traffic lights, and strengthening safety to reduce pedestrian injuries and crashes. Mark Williams, Utica Chief of Police & Scott Ingersol, Utica Fire Chief said, “The award of the SMART grant pilot funding is a game-changer for public safety in Utica. With the implementation of advanced smart city technology along Genesee Street, we’re not only modernizing our traffic signaling system but also significantly enhancing our ability to protect and serve the community. These upgrades will improve emergency response times for police, fire, and ambulance services, while also ensuring safer streets for pedestrians and drivers alike. Additionally, as we modernize our infrastructure, this system will provide invaluable support for essential public works operations such as snow plowing and street maintenance. This marks a critical step in building a safer, more resilient Utica as we embrace the future of urban redevelopment. On behalf of Utica’s Police and Fire, we thank Senator Schumer for fighting to ensure that our city has the modern transportation infrastructure needed to support our exceptional police officers and firefighters in keeping our community safe.” Nicholas F. Laino, Board of Members Chairman, CENTRO said, “Genesee St. is the heartbeat of Utica. It is CENTRO’s busiest corridor providing thousands of rides to Utica residents each week. Now, because of Senator Schumer’s tireless advocacy, Genesee St. will finally receive the upgrade we have all waited decades for. Smart, synchronized traffic signalization along the Genesee St. corridor will improve the reliability and on-time performance of CENTRO’s bus service, which will in turn improve the usability of our system, increase our ridership, and strengthen transportation access across the Mohawk Valley. It will also decrease idling time for all CENTRO vehicles, including our buses, which will decrease the amount of greenhouse gas emissions in our community. On behalf of CENTRO, our riders, and as a lifelong member of greater Utica, I thank Senator Schumer for delivering and look forward to the new and improved Genesee St.” Edward Welsh, CEO, CABVI said, “As all Uticans know, the traffic lights downtown are terrible, antiquated, and stressful for motorists and pedestrians. They are also particularly unsafe for the blind, visually impaired, and other communities with disabilities. News of this award is very good for people with vision loss in Utica, particularly around CABVI’s facilities on Kent and Elizabeth Streets downtown. Public protection is one of Senator Schumer’s top priorities, for which we are grateful. This is one of those rare projects that simultaneously improves traffic and pedestrian safety while cutting reaction time for first responders utilizing one of Utica’s busiest streets. CABVI and the communities we serve thank Senator Schumer for his hard work to bring smart, accessible traffic signals to the City of Utica.” The Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act included $100 million appropriated annually over five years (FY22-26) for the SMART grant program, which was established to provide grants to eligible public sector agencies to conduct demonstration projects focused on advanced smart community technologies and systems in order to improve transportation efficiency and safety. Schumer has long been a champion for transportation projects in the City of Utica. This past June, Senator Schumer delivered $4,613,276 through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law-funded Federal Highway Administration Transpiration Alternatives Program for the City of Utica’s Broad Street Corridor Project. In 2022, Schumer secured an $18.2 million grant through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant program for Utica’s North Genesee Street Gateway Bridge & Multi-Modal Connector Project. In 2016, Schumer successfully unlocked $1.8 million in federal funds through the Federal Highway Administration and the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) that were previously secured for an obsolete project and blocked for reuse. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/icymi-gillibrand-op-ed-in-the-new-york-times-make-the-equal-rights-amendment-part-of-the-constitution/,ICYMI: Gillibrand Op-Ed In The New York Times: Make The Equal Rights Amendment Part Of The Constitution,2024-12-16,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand published an opinion piece in the New York Times urging President Biden to direct the national archivist to certify and publish the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), which would enshrine equality and reproductive rights in the Constitution, before he leaves office. Senator Gillibrand has led the fight for the certification of the ERA, which was approved by both houses of Congress in the 1970s and ratified by the last of the necessary three-quarters of the states in 2020 but never published. Read the full op-ed here or below: Make the Equal Rights Amendment part of the Constitution Kirsten Gillibrand | December 15, 2024 With Republicans set to take unified control of government, Americans are facing the further degradation of reproductive freedom. Fortunately, Mr. Biden has the power to enshrine reproductive rights in the Constitution right now. He can direct the national archivist to certify and publish the Equal Rights Amendment. This would mean that the amendment has been officially ratified and that the archivist has declared it part of the Constitution. The amendment is concise: “Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex. The Congress shall have the power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article.” The amendment would make discrimination on the basis of sex — like restrictions on reproductive care that single out women — unconstitutional, including, in my view, abortion. We’ve seen the potential of this approach; courts in several states with E.R.A.s have cited those amendments in striking down state prohibitions on Medicaid-funded abortion care. The E.R.A. has met the requirements for certification — it passed two-thirds of Congress in 1972 and was ratified by three-quarters of the states as of 2020. Only a flawed Trump Justice Department memo prevented its certification as a constitutional amendment. The memo contended that the E.R.A. is no longer valid because it failed to meet the seven-year deadline that Congress initially set and then, when the ratification effort fell three states short, extended until 1982. But the deadline was meaningless. The Constitution says nothing about a deadline for amending it. No doubt this would be argued in the courts; right-wing legal challenges would follow the archivist’s certification and publication. But there is strong legal backing for our position. Mr. Biden should act now to protect reproductive rights and make the E.R.A. the law of the land. Kirsten Gillibrand, a Democrat, is a United States senator representing New York. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/following-his-advocacy-schumer-announces-historic-hudson-athens-lighthouse-selected-for-us-army-corps-protection-program-opening-up-desperately-needed-funding-to-help-save-beloved-lighthouse-from-sinking-into-the-hudson-river,"FOLLOWING HIS ADVOCACY, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES HISTORIC HUDSON-ATHENS LIGHTHOUSE SELECTED FOR U.S. ARMY CORPS PROTECTION PROGRAM, OPENING UP DESPERATELY NEEDED FUNDING TO HELP SAVE BELOVED LIGHTHOUSE FROM...",2024-12-16,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"After months of advocacy, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has selected the historic Hudson-Athens Lighthouse for their protection program and identified the Lighthouse as a priority for the Corps opening the desperately needed federal funding to help restore this beloved site. Schumer explained the historic lighthouse, which opened in 1874 and has served as a crucial navigation aid for commercial and recreational vessels, is on the national “11 Most Endangered Historic Places” list due to stronger waves and currents that are deteriorating wood pilings underneath the foundation, which puts the lighthouse at risk of collapsing into the Hudson River. Now thanks to Schumer’s efforts, the Army Corps will begin work with Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society to fund the engineering and construction work needed to save the lighthouse and stabilize the structure. “The Hudson-Athens Lighthouse has stood for over 150 years as a powerful symbol of New York’s rich maritime history, and is still used to help guide ships along the Hudson River and beloved by both tourists and the families in Columbia and Greene counties. When community leaders came to me fearing this historic lighthouse could begin sinking into the Hudson River, I said not on my watch! Now just in time for Christmas, I am proud to announce that I have gotten the Army Corps of Engineers leadership to include the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse in its protection program, opening up the critical federal funding needed to save this beloved historic landmark,” said Senator Schumer. “I worked for months calling the leadership at the Army Corps to shine a spotlight on the lighthouse and said we need federal support for this project. After years of uncertainty, we’re finally exiting the storm and the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society can chart a path forward. It is the Christmas gift so many have been looking for and I am proud to deliver it. I thank Brigadier General Lloyd, Colonel Young, and his team at the Corps for their work with us, and will continue to advocate to see this Lighthouse shine brightly for years to come.” Securing the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse into this program was a months-long effort by Schumer working behind the scenes to elevate the story of the lighthouse with the feds. Schumer personally called Assistant Secretary of Army Civil Works Michael Connor to advocate for the Army Corps to prioritize this project. Following his advocacy, the Army Corps allocated $50,000 for a feasibility study to assess appropriate next steps to restore the lighthouse’s base, which will open up continued federal investment for the restoration project. Following Schumer’s request, Army Corps leadership last week approved the feasibility study, greenlighting the project to move into its next phase of design and construction work through the USACE’s Continued Authorities Program (CAP) Section 14. Schumer pledged to continue pushing the Army Corps to prioritize preserving this beloved lighthouse for the Hudson Valley and Capital Region. Schumer said the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse is not just a physical structure, but a powerful symbol of the region’s identity and cultural heritage in Columbia and Greene Counties, and critical to the local tourism economy. For more than a century and a half, it has stood as a beacon of the Hudson Valley’s spirit and resilience, connecting generations of local residents to the history of their community and the river that has shaped it. The Hudson-Athens Lighthouse still serves as a navigational aid for ships along the Hudson River and for over a century was essential for the commerce that fueled the growth of America. Schumer said preserving the lighthouse is critical not only as a historic and cultural landmark, but a unifying symbol for the whole region. ""We are deeply grateful to Senator Schumer for his unwavering support and dedication to preserving the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse, a cherished symbol of our community and the entire Hudson River region. Thanks to his proactive advocacy, the Army Corps' approval of the feasibility study is an essential and monumental achievement to secure the funding to stabilize, restore, and preserve this historic landmark and priceless community and state asset. The Lighthouse has stood as a beacon of safety but also of community identity for over 150 years, and with this federal investment, we will ensure that it will continue to shine for generations to come. We look forward to working closely with the US Army Corps of Engineers and all our partners to bring this vision to life. Thank you, Senator Schumer,"" said Kristin Gamble, President of the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society. ““In the summer of 2022, I was honored to welcome Senator Schumer to the Athens Riverfront Park on his annual tour of every county in New York. To see the seeds planted that day come to fruition is thrilling to say the least. With the lighthouse as a backdrop, we discussed Hudson River history, and the conversation inevitably turned to the dire need for funding to assist in the preservation of our beloved landmark. When I connected Senator Schumer to HALPS I wasn’t certain what would come of it. But I am incredibly grateful that we met that day and that the senator has worked so hard since then to bring us to where we are today. I’m optimistic for the future of the lighthouse, which not only serves as a point of community pride but draws visitors from near and far to experience a slice of history in our wonderful little village,” said Amy Serrago, Mayor of Athens. “The US Army Corps of Engineers New York District is excited to announce that the Federal Interest Determination for the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse project was approved by our North Atlantic Division last week and we are now authorized to prepare a more detailed study to finalize the engineering and environmental analyses that are necessary to proceed into the design and construction phase. We look forward to working with the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society, the municipalities, and other interested stakeholders in advancing a project that will protect this critical cultural and historic resource for generations to come,” said USACE NY District Commander Colonel Young. Today’s visit to Greene County marks the completion of Schumer’s 26th annual tour of all 62 New York counties. During his first Senate election in 1998, Schumer pledged to visit every single New York County every year. Schumer is the first New York public official to start a tour of every county in the state and has continued it throughout his tenure in the Senate. Schumer explained that this tour allows him to meet New Yorkers in every corner of the state and determine where federal investments are needed. For example, in 2022 Schumer met with leadership in Greene County which is how he first met the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society team and learned about their push to restore the historic lighthouse. Since then, Schumer has been a lead supporter of delivering critical federal funding to boost the project. “This represents the beauty of my 62 county tour. I first met the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society team when visiting Greene County in 2022, and they put this project on my radar. This is exactly why I still do the tour even after all these years. I always learn something. By meeting New Yorkers in every corner of the state every year, I get to hear about what I can do to deliver critical federal support for local communities. Christmas came early this year for Columbia and Greene County and I am proud to help secure this major step forward in saving this beloved lighthouse,” added Schumer. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-completes-tour-of-all-of-nys-62-counties-for-26th-year-in-a-row-with-this-years-tour-the-culmination-of-legislation-he-championed-delivering-billions-for-ny-creating-thousands-of-good-paying-jobs-and-laying-foundation-for-empire-states-future,"SCHUMER COMPLETES TOUR OF ALL OF NY’S 62 COUNTIES FOR 26TH YEAR IN A ROW; WITH THIS YEAR’S TOUR THE CULMINATION OF LEGISLATION HE CHAMPIONED DELIVERING BILLIONS FOR NY, CREATING THOUSANDS OF...",2024-12-16,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Vowed To Visit Every Single NY County Each Year During His First Senate Election In 1998 & The Tradition Continues For An Historic 26th Year – With This Year As The Apex Of Decades-Long Vision He Has Had To Deliver On Investment Across NY State Schumer Believes Visiting Every County Is Imperative To His Work In DC And Inspired Legislation He Passed As Majority Leader Including The CHIPS & Science Law Which Is Bringing Manufacturing Back To The State, The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law Which Is Fixing Bridges, Broadband, & Roads Across The State, And Inflation Reduction Act That Is Lowering Costs Of Medicine & Energy For Families Schumer: I’m Not Slowing Down – And Promise To Keep Traveling, Delivering, & Fighting For New York! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer completed his 26th consecutive annual tour of all 62 New York State counties, with his final stop today in Greene County to announce he has successfully gotten the Army Corps to step up to help save the beloved Hudson-Athens Lighthouse. Schumer called this tour one of the most impactful, with this year as the culmination of decades of work and legislation he championed delivering billions of dollars in federal investment, creating thousands of good-paying jobs, rebuilding the state’s aging infrastructure, bringing manufacturing back to the state, and laying the foundation for the next generation. “Today, you can flip one of my favorite numbers – 62, for every county in New York – and get another very important number for me today: 26. I am proud today that for the 26th year in a row, I completed my annual tour of all 62 counties in New York State!” said Senator Schumer. “From Rochester to Rockland County, meeting with New Yorkers from every walk of life, and listening to them, is what inspires me every day in Washington. It is what inspired major legislation like my bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law which has delivered billions in federal investment this year spurring over $110 billion in new private investment to bring manufacturing back to Upstate NY, create thousands of good-paying jobs, and make the Empire State a global leader in semiconductor production. This year was special because I got to see the culmination of years of work on legislation delivering more for my home state than many ever thought possible, laying the foundation for a brighter future and the next generation here in NY.” During his first Senate election in 1998, Schumer pledged to visit every single New York county every year. Schumer is the first New York public official to start a tour of every county in the state and has continued it throughout his tenure in the Senate. “From landing America’s first National Semiconductor Technology Center in the Capital Region to helping save the historic postal facility on Williams St. in Buffalo and bringing broadband to rural communities across Upstate NY, this year was about helping communities on issues of all types in every corner of the state. As Majority Leader in the Senate I have always made sure New York is front of my mind, and ensuring the laws we championed deliver in big ways for the Empire State has been my top goal,” added Schumer. Schumer concluded, “And I have no plans on slowing down. God gave me a lot of energy, and I look forward to continuing this tradition again next year and continuing to fight and deliver for New York. Because no matter what’s happening in Washington, my favorite two titles will always be New York’s senator and a New Yorker, and I’m keeping my foot on the pedal so we can keep driving federal resources home to communities across the state.” The legislation Schumer has championed delivered massive federal investment in every corner of New York State this past year, including: Over $110 billion in new manufacturing investment made possible by billions in federal funding from his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law locked in for Upstate NY, creating thousands of new, good-paying jobs and making New York a global leader in the semiconductor industry. Schumer wrote and shepherded into law the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Act with Upstate NY in mind, and since then he has worked night and day to ensure it delivers for his home state. This year, billions in federal funding were announced for manufacturing and R&D projects in NY, locking in federal incentives to move forward major investments made by companies like Micron’s proposed massive $100 billion megafab memory chip complex near Syracuse – the largest private investment in New York State’s history – GlobalFoundries’ multi-billion dollar expansion in the Capital Region, Wolfspeed’s investment in the Mohawk Valley, Edwards Vacuum’s supplier investment in Western NY, Corning’s supplier investment in the North Country, and other critical investments such as America’s first National Semiconductor Technology Center being headquartered at Albany NanoTech, the prestigious federal Tech Hubs designation and investment across the I-90 corridor in Upstate NY, Binghamton University winning the NSF Regional Innovation Engines competition, JMA Wireless’s expansion in Syracuse, and much more. Billions from his Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law to revitalize NY’s roads, bridges, broadband and more. Schumer led the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law to passage in the Senate in 2021, which has delivered billions for NY, including $6+ billion this year for the Gateway Hudson tunnel project that is the largest mass transit federal grant in history, $180+ million to reconnect communities in Syracuse divided by the I-81 highway, a whopping $215+ million to help replace the Livingston Avenue Rail Bridge between Albany and Rensselaer, hundreds of millions to close the digital divide in rural and urban communities, and much more. Lower costs for drug prices, home energy costs, and investments in clean energy thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. Schumer led the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to passage in the Senate in 2022, which has already made vaccines free for seniors, capped insulin at $35 for those on Medicare, negotiated lower prices for critical medication, and lowered out of pocket drug costs to roughly $3,100 for 2024, with an even lower cap to $2,000 coming in 2025, making healthcare more affordable for more than 3.8 million New York seniors. In addition to helping save families over $300 million by weatherizing their homes and replacing old appliances with more efficient models, the nearly $250 million investment in rooftop solar for low-income and disadvantaged communities will deliver at least $40 in energy bill savings annually to more than 800,000 eligible households, with the added benefit of increased electric grid reliability. These funds complement the tax credits, made possible by the IRA, that saved 189,680 New York families over $374 million last year for clean energy upgrades to their homes while also lowering their monthly utility bills. These efforts have also allowed Schumer to successfully deliver on many top priorities across the state over the past year. These efforts can be found broken down region by region below: CAPITAL REGION Secured America’s first National Semiconductor Technology Center, along with a $825 million federal investment, for Albany NanoTech: After years of relentless advocacy, Senator Schumer announced the Capital Region was selected as America’s flagship location for the National Semiconductor Technology Center, which he created in his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law with Albany NanoTech in mind. Albany NanoTech will now be the epicenter for America’s next leap in federal research for Extreme Ultraviolet technology, which is central to the global semiconductor industry. Locked in $1.5 billion CHIPS Award for GlobalFoundries to expand operations and build a second, state-of-the-art fab in Malta, NY: After his successful efforts to convince GlobalFoundries to expand, Senator Schumer announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce has finalized its $1.5 billion direct CHIPS funding award, spurring the multi-billion dollar expansion of GlobalFoundries in the Capital Region that will include building a second state-of-the-art fab, helping to create thousands of new, good-paying manufacturing and union construction jobs. The U.S. Department of Commerce will disburse funds in the coming years as GlobalFoundries meets project milestones agreed to in the final award. Delivered $215 million to replace the Livingston Avenue Rail Bridge between Albany and Rensselaer: After personally calling U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to secure federal funding for this project, Senator Schumer announced that he secured historic funding to replace the Livingston Avenue Rail Bridge, some of which dates back to the Civil War era. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program, which Schumer fought to boost funding for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law he led to passage in the Senate and is the largest award in the history of the program. WESTERN NY Secured $40 million in federal funding for the “NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub”: After helping the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse Tech Hub land the prestigious federal Tech Hub designation Schumer created in his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law, Senator Schumer announced the Tech Hub was awarded major federal funding from a highly competitive federal grant. The funding will help Upstate NY build out its workforce training initiatives, strengthen existing manufacturing and innovation, and help attract new supply chains to support the build-out of the billions in private and federal semiconductor investment the senator has helped bring to Upstate NY. Delivered $100+ million for Buffalo to create a brand-new bus rapid transit line: After years of advocacy, Senator Schumer helped secure major federal funding for Buffalo to overhaul Bailey Avenue – one of Buffalo’s busiest streets, and increase affordable transportation for Buffalo’s East Side. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Neighborhood Access and Equity Program, which Schumer helped create in the Inflation Reduction Act that he led to passage in the Senate. Saved Buffalo’s William Street Post Office: After a decision by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) put Buffalo’s historic William St. Postal Facility on the list for consolidation, Schumer joined with the community and union postal workers to fight this decision, which Schumer also helped save in 2012. After personal calls to Postmaster Louis Dejoy, Senator Schumer announced the USPS reversed plans to transfer mail processing operations from Buffalo’s William Street Postal facility to Rochester. This decision will protect quality mail delivery and postal workers across Western NY. ROCHESTER-FINGER LAKES Celebrated the groundbreaking of a new, state-of-the-art National Grape Improvement Center: After securing $68.9 million in federal funding to bolster Upstate NY’s wine industry, Senator Schumer celebrated the groundbreaking of the new National Grape Improvement Center in Geneva, a partnership between Cornell and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The facility will help establish the Finger Lakes as the center of innovation and R&D for wine and viticulture for all of America. Landed $23.7 million for safer, more walkable & bikeable streets across Rochester: After standing at a notoriously dangerous roadway for cyclists and calling for federal investment, Senator Schumer returned to announce significant federal funding to help create a new safer network of streets for bicyclists and pedestrians in Rochester. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All Program, which Schumer helped create in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law that he led to passage in the Senate. Secured an $18 million preliminary CHIPS agreement for Edwards Vacuum to create a first-of-its-kind in the United States dry pump manufacturing facility to supply the semiconductor industry: Following his relentless advocacy, Senator Schumer announced that Edwards Vacuum secured a preliminary federal funding agreement for its new $300+ million dry pump manufacturing facility. The project is expected to bring 600+ new jobs, and this investment will bring the production of semiconductor-grade dry vacuum pumps to the U.S., strengthening the domestic semiconductor supply chain. Championed Judge Vacca’s historic judicial nomination in Western NY: After recommending Judge Meredith Vacca to serve as a judge on the United States District Court for the Western District of New York, Senator Schumer celebrated her swearing in. Judge Vacca, a Korean-American, is the first woman of color to serve as a judge on the Western District of New York bench, and with her swearing in the Western District of New York Court is one of the few 50% women benches in the country. CENTRAL NY Locked in a $6.1 billion CHIPS award to support Micron’s historic and massive investment in Central NY: After convincing Micron to select Clay, NY for its planned massive megafab memory chip manufacturing complex, Senator Schumer announced that Micron has finalized its $6.1 billion direct CHIPS funding award to support its $100+ billion project in Central NY. The project is expected to bring up to 50,000 good-paying jobs and be the largest private investment in New York’s history. The U.S. Department of Commerce will disburse funds in the coming years as Micron meets project milestones agreed to in the final award. Delivered $180+ million for Syracuse’s I-81 viaduct project to reconnect communities, realize the community grid, and make streets safer: Following years of advocacy, including bringing U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to Syracuse for a tour of the I-81 project, Senator Schumer announced major federal funding to bring the project to life, reconnect the downtown communities that have long been divided by I-81, and improve the quality of life for communities across Syracuse. The highly competitive funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Neighborhood Access and Equity Program, which Schumer created in the Inflation Reduction Act. Secured $50 million to build hundreds of units of new affordable housing for Syracuse’s East Adams Revitalization: After two years ago announcing a major push to secure federal support for Syracuse’s 15th Ward neighborhood, Senator Schumer announced one of the largest single federal housing investments in Syracuse’s history. The funding will help support the redevelopment of over 600 aging public housing units, into new, affordable, mixed-income housing units, revitalize urban green spaces, support educational and entrepreneurship, and more. This is the first award in NYS from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Choice Neighborhoods Initiative. NORTH COUNTRY Announce a $32 million CHIPS agreement for Corning Incorporated to increase specialized glass production for the semiconductor supply chain: After visiting Canton following the passage of his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law and promising it would supercharge the demand for Corning’s critical technology, Senator Schumer announced that Corning secured a preliminary federal funding agreement for its planned $315 million investment that will boost its highly specialized glass production in Canton, which is a critical piece of the supply chain for the world’s most advanced microchips. The project is expected to create up to 130 new, good-paying manufacturing jobs, including new union jobs, and over 175 union construction jobs. Churned up $22 million for Kraft Heinz to modernize production for their dairy factory in Lewis County: As part of his long history of supporting and protecting jobs at Kraft Heinz in Lowville, Senator Schumer announced major federal funding to help the food company upgrade, electrify, and decarbonize its heating process to significantly reduce carbon emissions. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Industrial Demonstrations Program, which Schumer boosted funding for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law and Inflation Reduction Act. Saved hundreds of manufacturing jobs in Plattsburgh after closure of former Nova Bus Facility: After Nova Bus announced its closure earlier this year, Schumer worked with local leaders and called Volvo’s top leadership to convince them to sell to another transportation manufacturer and protect the staple manufacturing facility. Earlier this year Schumer announced that Micro Bird will invest $38 million to establish new manufacturing at the Nova Bus site in Plattsburgh that was slated for closure, providing new job opportunities to the nearly 300+ workers there. SOUTHERN TIER Convinced Siemens Mobility to build a first-of-its-kind high-speed rail manufacturing facility: After his advocacy including personally writing the Siemens CEO, Senator Schumer announced that the company will build its new facility in Horseheads. The project is expected to create approximately 300 new good-paying jobs producing America’s fastest high-speed trainsets, the American Pioneer 220, for Brightline West, that will connect Las Vegas to Southern California. Landed NSF Engine award for the Binghamton University-led New Energy New York, bringing up to $160 million in federal investment for Southern Tier battery development: After delivering a historic $113+ million for Binghamton to establish its battery manufacturing & innovation hub, and then securing for the Southern Tier the prestigious federal Tech Hub designation late last year, Senator Schumer announced that the Binghamton-led project was one of only ten projects across the country selected for this NSF Regional Innovation Engines award which will bring $15 million in federal funding immediately, with up to $160 million total in federal funding over the life of the program. The funding will help supercharge growth and cutting-edge research in the Southern Tier’s battery development and manufacturing. Delivered nearly $9 million for Broome County to purchase 7 brand new, efficient electric buses: As part of his long history of delivering major federal funding to Broome County to boost its bus infrastructure, Senator Schumer announced major federal funding to help the county replace seven out-of-date diesel buses that are no longer reliable. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Low and No Emission Vehicle Grant Program, which Schumer fought to boost funding for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law he led to passage in the Senate. Secured nearly $16 million for Steuben County and partners to develop new battery technology for energy-efficient trains: Following efforts to boost the Southern Tier as a hub for battery research and development, Senator Schumer announced federal funding for the Steuben County IDA – in partnership with Norfolk Southern Railway, Binghamton University’s New Energy New York (NENY) consortium, and Alstom – to produce and test two hybrid, battery-powered trains at Alstom’s Southern Tier facility. This will enhance safety and improve climate resilience. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program, which Schumer fought to boost funding for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law he led to passage in the Senate. MOHAWK VALLEY Secured a $750 million preliminary CHIPS funding agreement for Wolfspeed to increase silicon carbide chip production and accelerate jobs growth: After his tireless advocacy, Senator Schumer announced that Wolfspeed secured a preliminary federal funding agreement to supercharge its investment in Marcy, NY. Wolfspeed’s Mohawk Valley Fab is among the largest 200mm Silicon Carbide fabrication facilities in the world. This project is also planning to utilize an estimated $1 billion in CHIPS investment tax credit funds that Schumer secured as part of his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law. Delivered nearly $12 million to replace the Bridge Street bridge over Schoharie Creek: Senator Schumer helped deliver major federal funding to replace the aging bridge, which is a vital connector in Schoharie County. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bridge Investment Program, which Schumer helped create in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law that he led to passage in the Senate. Saved 600+ jobs at Rome’s Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS): Following Schumer’s 10+ years of advocacy to prevent layoffs at Rome’s DFAS, Senator Schumer announced a commitment from DFAS management that no DFAS employees in Rome will lose their jobs because of automation. In addition, DFAS management will adopt 19 workforce training recommendations made by the union’s president to retrain and upskill employees for new roles. HUDSON VALLEY Delivered $16+ million to help reconnect the central New Rochelle Lincoln Avenue neighborhood: After years of advocacy to deliver federal funding to New Rochelle for this project, including personally speaking to the U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary multiple times, Senator Schumer announced major federal funding to help reconnect the community by converting the six-lane Memorial Highway into a walkable and bikeable complete street with open space, greenery, and a new elevated park. New Rochelle was one of the first recipients of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Neighborhood Access and Equity Program, which Schumer created in the Inflation Reduction Act. Delivered $4+ million for Yonkers to construct a recreation and transportation path: Senator Schumer announced major federal funding to construct a 3.1 mile path through distressed southwest Yonkers and the intertwined rehabilitation of the South Broadway (Route 9) commercial arterial. The funding comes from the FY2024 annual budget bill. Secured $24+ million to help Stewart International Airport repair runway: As part of his long history of delivering federal support to help improve Stewart International Airport, Senator Schumer delivered major federal funding to help Stewart repair cracks in the runway pavement, which is important for preventing deterioration and maintaining safety. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Airport Improvement Program, which Schumer fought to boost funding for in this year’s FAA reauthorization bill. LONG ISLAND Secured $24 million to supercharge Riverhead downtown revitalization: Following his advocacy, Senator Schumer secured major federal funding that will allow Riverhead to transform its downtown by reclaiming the Peconic riverfront for public enjoyment; installing necessary flood mitigation measures; spurring mixed-use development; and making its downtown safer and more accessible for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike. The funding comes from the highly competitive U.S. Department of Transportation’s Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity program, which Schumer created in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law he led to passage in the Senate. Pushed forward $405 million for the Long Island Power Authority to harden Long Island’s electric grid infrastructure: After tropical storm Isaias knocked out power for 650,000 Long Islanders and devastated Long Island’s infrastructure, Senator Schumer lit up the phones and pushed forward major federal funding to ensure Long Island could build back stronger. These funds will help upgrade 11,000 utility poles and over 1,300 miles of power lines while allowing LIPA to hire 100 additional rapid response workers. Unlocked $52 million for Fire Island coastline: After back-to-back devastating storms washing out the beaches of multiple Fire Island communities, Senator Schumer called for the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to make emergency repairs. The USACE heeded Senator Schumer’s call and greenlit a $52 million project to rejuvenate the coastline of Fire Island and will add 2 million cubic yards of sand to the beaches and dunes between the Fire Island communities of Seaview and Davis Park, shoring up Fire Island’s coastal integrity for years to come. Delivered over $154 million in federal funds to rescue two failing Long Island Teamster pension funds: After fighting to include the Butch Lewis Act securing pension solvency in the American Rescue Plan, Senator Schumer delivered major federal funding to save the Teamsters’ 1034 and 813 pension funds allowing members to receive the full amounts they have earned over the years. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/icymi-new-york-times-highlights-senator-gillibrands-efforts-to-enshrine-equality-and-reproductive-rights-in-the-constitution-via-the-equal-rights-amendment/,ICYMI: New York Times Highlights Senator Gillibrand’s Efforts To Enshrine Equality And Reproductive Rights In The Constitution Via The Equal Rights Amendment,2024-12-13,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"In case you missed it, the New York Times published an article highlighting Senator Gillibrand’s efforts to persuade President Biden to direct the national archivist to certify and publish the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), which would enshrine equality and reproductive rights in the Constitution. Senator Gillibrand has led the fight for the certification of the ERA, which was approved by both houses of Congress in the 1970s and ratified by the last of the necessary three-quarters of the states in 2020 but never published. Read the full story here or below: Gillibrand Presses Biden to Amend the Constitution to Enshrine Sex Equality Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York is leading the charge for Democrats to persuade President Biden to adopt the Equal Rights Amendment, which would invite a Supreme Court battle. Annie Karni | December 13, 2024 Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York is on a mission in President Biden’s final days in office. She wants to convince him that he can rescue his legacy by adding the century-old Equal Rights Amendment, which would explicitly guarantee sex equality, to the Constitution as a way to protect abortion rights in post-Roe America. He could do it all, she contends, with one phone call. Both houses of Congress approved the amendment in 1972, but it was not ratified by the states in time to be added to the Constitution. Ms. Gillibrand has been pushing a legal theory that the deadline for ratification is irrelevant and unconstitutional. All that remains, she argues, is for Mr. Biden to direct the national archivist, who is responsible for the certification and publication of constitutional amendments, to publish the E.R.A. as the 28th Amendment. The move would almost certainly invite a legal challenge that would land in the Supreme Court. But Ms. Gillibrand wants Mr. Biden to use his presidential power while he still has it to force the issue, effectively daring Republicans to wage a legal battle to take away equal rights for women. Ms. Gillibrand’s is just one of the many entreaties Democrats in Congress are making to Mr. Biden in the waning hours of his term to take bold action before President-elect Donald J. Trump and an all-Republican Congress take over in January. Some are pressing him to protect undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children. Others are pushing for more clemency grants for incarcerated people. Ms. Gillibrand has pleaded her E.R.A. case at every available opportunity. The third-term New Yorker has met with Jeffrey D. Zients, the White House chief of staff, and Anita Dunn, a former top adviser to Mr. Biden. Her request is for a five-minute meeting with Mr. Biden himself. She has used passing 30-second interactions in photo lines to personally pitch the president, so far to no avail. Ms. Gillibrand has presented White House officials with fat binders full of legal research and polling, which have on the cover a printout of Mr. Biden posing as if he is on a Taylor Swift Eras Tour poster. (E.R.A. — get it?) Ms. Gillibrand sat down with Minyon Moore, one of Vice President Kamala Harris’s top advisers and confidantes, to persuade Ms. Harris to champion the E.R.A. and asked her to speak to other White House officials about it. Still, nothing happened. Undeterred, Ms. Gillibrand has continued to text and harangue and flatter, all in service of procuring a brief meeting with Mr. Biden to make a more comprehensive pitch. “I’ve never done more legal analysis and work since I was a lawyer,” Ms. Gillibrand said. So far, she has been strung along. “It’s ‘I’ll get back to you; I’ll get back to you.’ Everyone always says, ‘We love your arguments.’ I never know what the ‘but’ is.” Kelly Scully, a White House spokeswoman, said senior administration officials had been discussing the proposal with lawmakers and other stakeholders. “President Biden has been clear that he wants to see the Equal Rights Amendment definitively enshrined in the Constitution,” Ms. Scully said in a statement. “It is long past time that we recognize the clear will of the American people.” The issue of the E.R.A., which was first proposed by women’s suffragists in 1923, is politically simple and legally complicated. The Constitution states that proposed amendments must be passed by two-thirds majorities in both houses of Congress and ratified by three-quarters of the states. It makes no mention of a deadline for ratification, but Congress in modern times has typically included a seven-year clock for the states to sign on. The House and the Senate approved the Equal Rights Amendment in 1972 with a seven-year deadline, and then when it had yet to be ratified by enough states by 1979, extended the deadline to 1982. By then, only 35 states had ratified it — still short of the three-quarters requirement. Since then, three more states — Nevada, Illinois and Virginia — have ratified the amendment, surpassing the threshold. But some other states have since rescinded their ratifications. Conservative opponents have argued that the deadline was binding and the amendment is effectively dead. The Trump administration’s Justice Department instructed the archivist to take no action on the E.R.A. when Virginia in 2020 became the 38th and final state to ratify it. The timeline issue has left the amendment in limbo. Many legal scholars, as well as attorneys general in 23 states, have argued that since there is no reference to a ratification deadline in the Constitution and no precedent for any state successfully reversing its approval, neither issue should stand in the way of the E.R.A. becoming the 28th Amendment and the law of the land. The amendment has taken on greater urgency for many Democrats since the Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization overturned abortion rights. Ms. Gillibrand and other abortion rights advocates argue that Mr. Biden has one last opportunity to enshrine reproductive rights into law for millions of women, and that there are strong constitutional and political arguments for him to do so. Ms. Gillibrand said she was not dissuaded by the possibility that a conservative-leaning Supreme Court might strike down the amendment. “This will ultimately be decided by the courts, but this is a moment in time where we should stand up for what we’re for,” she said. “If you’re waiting for the people you don’t like on the court to die, we’re all going to be dead. That’s too long to wait.” Republicans have generally called the measure gratuitous, arguing that equal protections for women are included in the 14th Amendment. But they, too, have conceded that adopting the amendment could provide a new legal basis for protecting abortion after the overturning of Roe v. Wade, and said it should be opposed as a way to protect the lives of the unborn. On Monday night, at the lightly attended White House Christmas party for members of Congress, Ms. Gillibrand said she tried again to press the issue when it was her turn to take a holiday photo with the Bidens. “We know all about it,” Jill Biden, the first lady, assured her, expressing support for the idea. When Ms. Gillibrand approached Mr. Biden last summer on a photo line, he responded, “So you want me to make a big deal out of it?” Ms. Gillibrand has even recruited former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to the cause, and Mrs. Clinton has also spoken to the archivist, she said. As they lobby for action, Ms. Gillibrand and other lawmakers are also trying to appeal to Mr. Biden’s ego, contending that amending the Constitution to explicitly bar sex discrimination could burnish his damaged legacy. “I’ve been working really hard just on the audience of one, trying to make the case to him personally, to say, ‘I want this to be part of your legacy as a president I respect and admire; you should make this part of your legacy,’” she said. “I’m trying to give them all the legal reasons and political reasons.” A new survey by Data for Progress, a progressive think tank, showed strong support for Mr. Biden taking action and that doing so would “cause a significant, positive shift among voters in terms of how they think Americans will look back on Biden’s presidency.” About 61 percent of likely voters, including about 87 percent of Democrats, said they supported Mr. Biden taking action to adopt the Equal Rights Amendment. The poll also showed a 30-point increase in the percentage of voters who said they would look back on Mr. Biden’s presidency more favorably if he were to take action on the amendment. Kate Kelly, the senior director of the women’s initiative at the Center for American Progress, who has been working on the issue for a decade, said she hoped that Mr. Biden and Democrats would not argue themselves out of taking action. “This is the closest we’ve ever come for it being considered,” Ms. Kelly said. “I always tell people, ‘Think of what the other side would do if they were one signature away from changing the Constitution.’ We need that energy.” Ms. Gillibrand is hopeful, even as she grows more frantic with less time left to get her meeting. Last month, 45 senators, including Chuck Schumer of New York, the majority leader, signed a letter to Mr. Biden calling on him to take action on the E.R.A. “Inaction is action,” they wrote. “We must answer the call to uphold equality and strengthen women’s rights by certifying the E.R.A. We urge you to direct the archivist to publish the E.R.A. as the 28th Amendment without further delay.” A group of about 100 House Democrats is also expected to send a similar letter to Mr. Biden, urging him to take action in the final days of his presidency. “To President Biden: Take action now,” Representative Cori Bush, Democrat of Missouri, said at a rally last week outside the Capitol. “You have the opportunity to make equal rights a defining part of your legacy. All it takes is your signature.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-schumer-booker-kim-send-letter-to-fbi-dhs-and-faa-requesting-briefing-on-drone-activity-in-new-york-and-new-jersey/,"Gillibrand, Schumer, Booker, Kim Send Letter to FBI, DHS And FAA Requesting Briefing On Drone Activity In New York And New Jersey",2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Andy Kim sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requesting a briefing on how the agencies are working with federal and local law enforcement to identify and address the source of recent unmanned aerial system activity in New York and New Jersey. The senators noted that “since late November, communities in the New York City area and northern New Jersey have reported several incidents of unattributable drone sightings at night, alarming both residents and local law enforcement” and highlighted that “the potential safety and security risks posed by these drones in civilian areas is especially pertinent considering recent drone incursions at sensitive military sites in and outside of the continental United States over the past year.” The letter requests a briefing from the agencies and that it “include any authorities, tools, or staff your agencies may require to address these ongoing incidents and the broader security challenge posed by UAS.” Gillibrand has long been a leader on coordinating efforts across the federal government to identify and assess security challenges in our airspace. She created the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) in the FY22 NDAA to focus the Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community on resolving UAP sightings, improve data sharing between DoD and the Intelligence Community on UAP sightings, address national security concerns, and report health effects people may experience in relation to UAP events. A full copy of the letter can be found here and below: Dear Secretary Mayorkas, Director Wray and Administrator Whitaker, We write out of urgent concern regarding the unmanned aerial system (UAS) activity that has affected communities across New York and New Jersey in recent days. Due to the ongoing nature of these drone incidents, we request that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) brief us as soon as possible on how your agencies are working with federal and local law enforcement to identify and address the source of these incursions. As you know, since late November, communities in the New York City area and northern New Jersey have reported several incidents of unattributable drone sightings at night, alarming both residents and local law enforcement. According to public reports, residents have reported that some of these drones are larger in size compared to other commercially available drone technology.1 Some of these drones have been observed maneuvering near critical infrastructure and sensitive locations, including reservoirs and military installations.2 In addition to potential privacy concerns raised by these aerial systems, we are also especially concerned about how these drones may harm public safety, especially given recent reports that a medevac helicopter was prevented from transporting a seriously injured patient for care because of the presence of these drones.3 The potential safety and security risks posed by these drones in civilian areas is especially pertinent considering recent drone incursions at sensitive military sites in and outside of the continental United States over the past year. Protecting civilian infrastructure, safety, and privacy as well as military assets and personnel will require a comprehensive response from Congress and the executive branch. For this reason, we request that the briefing you provide also include any authorities, tools, or staff your agencies may require to address these ongoing incidents and the broader security challenge posed by UAS. Thank you for your consideration of this request. We look forward to your response no later than December 23, 2024. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-nearly-44-million-for-syracuses-jma-wireless-from-his-bipartisan-chips-and-science-law-to-pioneer-new-state-of-the-art-american-made-5g-technology-creating-new-good-paying-jobs_new-production-in-central-ny,"SCHUMER ANNOUNCES NEARLY $44 MILLION FOR SYRACUSE’S JMA WIRELESS FROM HIS BIPARTISAN CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW TO PIONEER NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART AMERICAN-MADE 5G TECHNOLOGY, CREATING NEW, GOOD-PAYING JOBS, &...",2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"JMA’s CNY Facility Is The Only Major American-Owned 5G Manufacturing Factory; The Smart Factory Complies With “Buy America” Standards Schumer Included In The Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law To Expand American Manufacturing Of Telecom Technology Now, With Support From Wireless Innovation Fund Schumer Created In Bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law, JMA Will Invest A Total $75+ Million In CNY To Create Dozens Of New, Good-Paying Jobs With A New Production Line To Enhance 5G Networks At Leading Wireless Carriers Like AT&T, Verizon, Boost, And More Schumer: Thanks To CHIPS & Science, JMA Wireless Will Make Central NY An Epicenter Of Keeping America Ahead Of China In 5G U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced $43,940,612 in federal funding from his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law for JMA Wireless to pioneer the domestic manufacturing of 5G Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN)-compliant radio units (RU), and upgrade its state-of-the-art 5G manufacturing facilities in Central NY. This award will support JMA to further invest $30 million in private capital, creating up to 30 new, good-paying jobs, with the potential for more down the road, to develop and commercialize new technology accelerating America’s wireless and 5G network capabilities. Schumer said this new production will help maintain America’s 5G leadership, which is critical to support advanced high-speed internet and the ability to directly compete with the Chinese Communist Party and companies like Huawei and ZTE, which the senator has long warned threaten U.S. national security. “We need the future of America’s 5G technology built in Central NY, not China. Now thanks to my bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law, nearly $44 million in federal funding is on the way to make Syracuse’s JMA Wireless an epicenter for American innovation and manufacturing for the next generation of 5G wireless technology,” said Senator Schumer. “I’ve long sounded the alarm on companies backed by the Chinese Communist Party, like Huawei, and the threat their technology poses to our national security and economic primacy by stealing American’s personal data. Investments like this show the federal government is serious about taking back the reins on critical technology like 5G and making sure the future of broadband and wireless technology is stamped ‘Made in America’ with JMA leading the way.” Schumer added, “Today’s investment works in tandem with the new Buy America requirements for telecom technology I delivered through the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, boosting opportunities for Syracuse’s JMA to manufacture the equipment needed for building new high-speed internet across the country. Because of these efforts, JMA is bringing back this industry & good-paying jobs from overseas and ensuring the future of America’s high-speed network is secure and developed right here in Central NY.” ""The future of global security and economic leadership hinges on our ability to control and protect the next generation of wireless technology. No one understands this better than Leader Schumer. While this was bipartisan legislation, he was there at the beginning – advocating for secure, American-made 5G solutions that not only strengthen our supply chain but also put a critical check on adversaries like China. With this Wireless Innovation Fund grant, we're bringing high-tech manufacturing jobs to upstate New York and accelerating the deployment of ORAN technology that will secure the U.S. position as a leader in wireless for years to come,” said John Mezzalingua, CEO of JMA Wireless. Schumer explained that, currently, 5G wireless network coverage at major carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and Boost are capped by the limitations of commercially available radio technology, and JMA’s ARMOR platform will provide carriers with a next-generation solution to overcome existing limitations, increase their high-speed network capacity, and bring high-quality 5G coverage to communities across Central New York, New York State, and the entire U.S. The senator added that JMA will combine this nearly $44 million in new federal funding with more than $30 million of matching private investment to inject $75 million into growing their CNY manufacturing and workforce. According to JMA, the investment will create up to 30 new, good-paying jobs initially to develop the technology and ramp to full production – with the potential for significant demand from major wireless carriers to drive the addition of more new manufacturing jobs in the years to come. In addition to accelerating JMA’s leadership in 5G open radio access network (ORAN) technology, reshoring critical domestic manufacturing, and strengthening our national security, Schumer said this investment will allow JMA to centralize and co-locate their testing capabilities and advanced manufacturing process prototype at their new, state-of-the-art 5G Innovation Campus and Global HQ in CNY where the company projects to produce and sell more than 12,000 state-of-the-art 5G ORAN radios per year. The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Wireless Innovation Fund, funded by the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law Schumer led to passage in the Senate, is dedicated to fostering U.S. wireless innovation and developing strong wireless networks across the country. The CHIPS & Science Law invested $1.5 billion for this program to reinforce U.S. leadership in the next generation of high-speed internet, foster competition, and strengthen U.S. supply chains. JMA is currently building a new ARMOR (American, Ruggedized, Modular, O-RAN, Radio) platform to improve operational efficiency and lower costs for 5G infrastructure across the country. This will increase capacity while lowering costs and reducing deployment time for 5G infrastructure, making wireless service more accessible. Syracuse Mayor Walsh said, “JMA Wireless's leadership in 5G technology has and will continue to advance the Syracuse Surge, our strategy for inclusive growth in the New Economy. Thanks to the CHIPS & Science Law and the strong support of Senator Schumer, Syracuse is emerging as a global leader in technology manufacturing and innovation.” Schumer explained that he worked to include the Build America, Buy America Act in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to ensure that Buy America rules apply to all taxpayer-funded infrastructure and public works projects. Before, American-made sourcing requirements applied to some federal infrastructure projects, but not all, including federal broadband programs. Schumer said that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law closed these loopholes and ensures taxpayer dollars are used to sustain and grow jobs in domestic manufacturing and throughout product supply chains when investing in the nation’s infrastructure. Schumer said JMA Wireless – and its over 500 employees – received a boost from Build America, Buy America for high-speed internet expansion in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law. Schumer said JMA Wireless, which has invested over $400 million in RAN R&D, facilities, and manufacturing capacity since 2017, is working hard to restore U.S. leadership in cutting-edge wireless technology at a critical time in the transition to 5G by producing some of the world’s most advanced wireless broadband products right in Syracuse. By harnessing funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law and the “Build America, Buy America” requirement, the radios and antennas made at JMA’s new Syracuse factory are supplying efforts to help bridge the digital divide while also creating high-tech manufacturing jobs in Central New York. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law, which Schumer led to passage in the Senate, contained a record $65 billion for the expansion of high-speed internet, including $42.45 billion for broadband deployment grants to states which New York received over $600 million, $2.75 billion for Digital Equity and Inclusion, $2 billion for the Tribal Connectivity Fund and $1 billion for Middle Mile Broadband infrastructure – all of which will be distributed by the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). Schumer explained investing in American telecommunications companies like JMA Wireless is especially important amid fears that foreign-owned telecommunications companies, particularly Chinese state-owned ones, could spy on Americans. Schumer has long been critical of the Chinese state-owned telecommunications company Huawei, successfully fighting to put Huawei and its affiliates on the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Specially Designated Nationals list and introducing a bill to prohibit Huawei from operating in the U.S. The senator explained that by boosting companies like JMA, more American-made telecommunications equipment will be made available, reducing reliance on foreign-made technology, as well as helping make JMA a global leader. ""This Wireless Innovation Fund Grant is a critical step toward ensuring that the U.S. is at the forefront of global 5G innovation. By investing in companies like JMA, the US is creating a safer, more resilient supply chain while providing the tools our country and infrastructure need to remain competitive. JMA’s work, along with key partnerships from U.S. carriers, will drive forward the innovation that keeps America secure,” said Diane Rinaldo, Executive Director of the ORAN Alliance. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-secures-up-to-500-million-in-national-defense-bill-to-bolster-the-tech-hubs-program-he-created-in-his-bipartisan-chips-and-science-law-to-power-upstate-nys-innovation-industries-like-semiconductors_batteries,SCHUMER SECURES UP TO $500 MILLION IN NATIONAL DEFENSE BILL TO BOLSTER THE TECH HUBS PROGRAM HE CREATED IN HIS BIPARTISAN CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW TO POWER UPSTATE NY’S INNOVATION INDUSTRIES LIKE...,2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Created Tech Hubs Program With Upstate NY In Mind, Fighting For Years To Land The Designation For Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse Region As America’s Semiconductor Superhighway & For Binghamton As A Major Battery Research Cluster New Funding Schumer Has Secured In NDAA Will Help Continue Critical Work For EDA To Boost Regions Across The Country, Including Upstate, NY That Received Highly-Competitive Tech Hub Designations – As Well As Unlocking Opportunities To Invest In New Regions Schumer: Tech Hubs Tap The Potential Of The Entire Country To Out-Innovate The World, And It Is Critical We Continue This Program For Upstate NY & America U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced he has secured up to $500 million in new funding for the Regional Tech Hubs program – which he created in his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law – as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25), which is slated for floor consideration in the House of Representatives and the Senate in the coming days. Schumer fought for years to land the prestigious Tech Hubs designation for Upstate NY, which received two coveted designations, one for semiconductor manufacturing and innovation across the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region and a second for the Binghamton University-led New Energy New York battery hub. Schumer said this new funding will help expand this vital program ensuring it continues to help bring the development of critical technologies back to our shores in the communities that need it most. “I created the Tech Hubs program in my bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law, always with Upstate NY and communities like it across America in mind, and we are already seeing the tremendous benefits of this program. The Tech Hubs program must continue, and that is why I am proud to announce I have secured up to $500 million for Tech Hubs in the national defense bill we are working to pass before the end of the year,” said Senator Schumer. “From Buffalo to Binghamton, we are already seeing the benefits of the Tech Hubs program, helping create new, good-paying jobs, attracting companies, and preparing our workforce to make the technology America needs to power its future, from semiconductors to batteries. Now is not the time to slow down, we need to be investing more to ensure that the full benefits of the CHIPS & Science Law are realized and major investments like Micron are able to be connected to communities & businesses that are ready to help write the next chapter for American manufacturing and innovation in Upstate NY and around the country.” Schumer added, “This new Tech Hubs funding will help keep this program strong to continue to breathe new life into our regions, positioning them to lead the industries of the future.” Schumer explained that the provision he worked to include in the NDAA would direct up to $500 million in new funding to the Tech Hubs program, funding that will be generated from spectrum auction proceeds. The spectrum provisions secured in the package will allow the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) to conduct a one-time auction for the AWS-3 spectrum band to help meet the surging spectrum demands of wireless consumers. By securing up to $500 million, the Tech Hubs program will have the opportunity to consider support for currently designated Tech Hub regions or even expand investments to more regions. Schumer created the Regional Tech Hubs competition in his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law to help bring critical industries back from overseas to communities that have great potential to lead in new technologies. After years of advocacy, Schumer successfully landed two Tech Hub designations for Upstate NY, an exclusive group, comprised of only 31 total regional designations across the country that beat out nearly 400 initial applications in a nationwide competition. The two Upstate NY designations were: The Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region’s “NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub” which is working to bolster Upstate NY’s booming semiconductor industry by attracting new suppliers to the region, advancing research & development programs for the semiconductor industry, and helping train the next generation of Upstate New York’s manufacturing workforce in the semiconductor industry. Earlier this year, Schumer secured the first major $40 million Tech Hubs implementation grant for the proposal, aiming to turn the corridor into America’s semiconductor superhighway. The Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region was one of only 12 implementation grant awardees nationally. The Binghamton University-led New Energy New York (NENY) project which seeks to accelerate Upstate NY’s battery research & development cluster. According to Binghamton University, the effort is projected to have billions of dollars in regional economic impact and create thousands of good-paying jobs. Over the summer, Schumer delivered a $500,000 Consortium Accelerator Award through the federal Tech Hubs program to boost the region’s ongoing work. This builds on years of funding Schumer has secured for the Binghamton-based battery project, including both the prestigious National Science Foundation (NSF) Engines award that was also created by his CHIPS & Science Law that is providing up to $160 million in potential funding to boost their battery efforts and the Build Back Better Regional Challenge Award created by Schumer’s American Rescue Plan, which unlocked over $113 million in funding to jumpstart these efforts. Both Upstate NY Regional Tech Hubs are tackling comprehensive regional priorities to position themselves to lead in critical technologies. These priorities range from workforce training to supply chain expansion and R&D investment. In Buffalo, the EDA Tech Hub funding will play a critical role in strengthening the region’s position within the semiconductor supply chain through a concerted effort led by the University at Buffalo. This initiative aims to close gaps in the semiconductor supply chain and create growth opportunities for local businesses. In Rochester, the NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub’s Workforce Training efforts are being led by Monroe Community College, which is expanding internship and apprenticeship opportunities and establishing a program to pair industry partners with semiconductor supply chain firms to develop training and job placement efforts. MCC will develop new programs and expand on existing programs to provide skills workers will need to secure jobs in the semiconductor industry. For example, its only-in-the-nation associates degree in precision optics has sent graduates to I-Corridor chip supply chain manufacturers like Corning and Optimax. In Syracuse, Syracuse University will spearhead the development of the NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub’s commercialization component. Syracuse University will help coordinate stakeholders and the Tech Hub’s key commercialization assets and resources across academia, government, and industry. The university will also help expand access for small, mid-size, and minority-owned business and nurture regional growth in semiconductor-related innovation and entrepreneurship. In Binghamton, the Binghamton University-led New Energy New York (NENY) battery Tech Hub has been instrumental in highlighting the region’s strength in battery R&D. NENY has supported regional innovation, manufacturing and supply chain development, as well as workforce development programs that have spanned all levels of education to connect students from underserved communities to opportunities in this growing industry. The NENY Tech Hub has partnered with local agencies and companies to develop new battery technology for energy-efficient trains thanks to federal funding Schumer helped secure. Binghamton’s Tech Hub designation also bolstered the Raymond Corporation and Toyota Material Handling’s decision to build lithium ion battery packs for their operation and incorporate other critical battery technology. Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. Earlier this year Schumer secured a major $825 million federal investment to make Albany NanoTech the first National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) flagship facility and headquarters for extreme ultraviolet (EUV) research and development that is critical to the global chip industry. Micron has announced plans for a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory megafab in Central New York with the support of a finalized $6.1 billion CHIPS incentive award. GlobalFoundries plans to invest over $13 billion to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in the Capital Region, with support from a finalized $1.5 billion CHIPS incentive award. Wolfspeed has opened a 200mm silicon carbide fabrication facility in the Mohawk Valley, one of the largest in the world, with a $750 million preliminary CHIPS agreement accelerating their ongoing expansion in the Mohawk Valley and boosting good-paying jobs expected to be created at the Marcy facility. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand its facilities in Onondaga County, supported by federal investment to strengthen domestic supply chains, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build their microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. In addition, Upstate New York is home to semiconductor supply chain companies like Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants. Recently, Schumer announced that Corning Incorporated reached a $32 million CHIPS PMT funding agreement to make a $315 million investment that would increase production at their Canton facility of specialized glass vital for the semiconductor industry. Additionally, following Schumer’s advocacy, Edwards Vacuum has announced a $300+ million investment to build a dry pump manufacturing facility, made possible by a $18 million preliminary CHIPS agreement, creating 600 good-paying jobs to support the growing chip industry in Western New York. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-announces-pay-raise-for-service-members-expanded-eligibility-for-department-of-defense-food-security-program/,"Gillibrand Announces Pay Raise For Service Members, Expanded Eligibility For Department Of Defense Food Security Program",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"FY2025 NDAA includes a 4.5% pay raise for all troops, additional 10% pay raise for junior enlisted service members NDAA also expands eligibility for the Basic Needs Allowance, the DoD’s program to address food insecurity for service members Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Chair of the Emerging Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee, announced several provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025 that will increase pay and benefits for service members. “Our troops are the armed services’ greatest asset, and they deserve fair pay and good benefits,” said Senator Gillibrand. “That’s why I’m pleased to announce that this year’s NDAA includes provisions that will significantly increase pay for troops and combat food insecurity among service members. I’m proud to have fought hard to secure these wins, and I will continue working to ensure that our nation’s service members have the resources they need to provide for their families and put food on their tables.” Specifically, the FY2025 NDAA contains a 4.5 percent pay increase for all service members, as well as an additional 10 percent increase for junior enlisted service members in the ranks of E1 through E4. The bill also expands eligibility for the Department of Defense’s (DoD) Basic Needs Allowance (BNA), which is a supplemental monthly payment for qualifying service members that is intended to address food insecurity in the military. This year’s NDAA increases the eligibility threshold to participate in the BNA program from 150 percent of the federal poverty line (FPL) to 200 percent. This change will help service members and their families afford groceries and other basic household necessities. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Gillibrand has long advocated to increase pay and benefits for service members. Last year, Senator Gillibrand successfully pushed the department to accelerate the prior increase in BNA eligibility from 130 percent of the FPL to 150 percent of the FPL. This year, she worked to support the increase to 200 percent. She has also supported efforts to exclude service members’ Basic Allowance for Housing from the eligibility calculation for both BNA and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/with-new-yorkers-set-to-lose-health-insurance-or-pay-thousands-more-for-coverage-gillibrand-calls-for-extension-of-enhanced-affordable-care-act-subsidies/,"With New Yorkers Set To Lose Health Insurance Or Pay Thousands More For Coverage, Gillibrand Calls For Extension Of Enhanced Affordable Care Act Subsidies",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"With critical subsidies that help nearly 20 million Americans afford health insurance set to expire, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a video press conference to urge Congress to pass the Health Care Affordability Act by the end of this year. This legislation would permanently extend the enhanced premium tax credits (PTC) offered in individual marketplaces under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), helping keep health care costs lowered for all Americans. Without an extension, these enhanced subsidies will expire at the end of 2025, causing an estimated 4 million Americans to lose their insurance over the next several years. “No one should have to forgo treatment because they can’t afford health insurance,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Allowing these tax credits to expire would create a financial burden that many New Yorkers cannot afford, jeopardizing public health and forcing hard-working families to choose between potentially life-saving care and putting food on the table. I am determined to get this bill passed by the end of this year so we can keep health care costs lowered for all Americans.” Premium tax credits (PTC) were established as part of the ACA, which became law in 2010. PTCs are refundable credits that help low- and middle-income individuals and families cover the premiums for their health insurance purchased through the Health Insurance Marketplace. In 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) temporarily expanded eligibility for PTCs and lowered premiums for those who were already eligible. In 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act extended these enhanced credits for three years. Since ARPA’s passage, ACA enrollment has nearly doubled, helping more low- and middle-income households receive coverage and care. While the amount of savings varies by person, these enhanced PTCs have reduced premium costs by 44 percent on average. If Congress does not act to again extend the enhanced PTCs, the provision will expire at the end of 2025, and nearly 20 million Americans will see a sudden increase in their health insurance costs. This includes tens of thousands of New Yorkers, who will, on average, face a yearly increase of $1,440 in the amount that they pay for their premiums.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-its-locked-in-announces-microns-historic-61-billion-award-from-his-bipartisan-chips-and-science-law-is-signed-securing-fed_needed-to-build-massive-memory-chip-facility-in-central-ny,"SCHUMER: IT’S LOCKED IN! ANNOUNCES MICRON’S HISTORIC $6.1 BILLION AWARD FROM HIS BIPARTISAN CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW IS SIGNED, SECURING FED $$$ NEEDED TO BUILD MASSIVE MEMORY CHIP FACILITY IN CENTRAL NY",2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer, Who Shepherded Bipartisan CHIPS & Science Act Into Law, Went All Out To Land Micron In CNY And Deliver This Historic Investment, Which Now Takes A Monumental Leap Forward To Make It A Reality Finalized Agreement Ensures Micron Can Tap CHIPS Funding In Coming Years As It Meets Project Milestones For Micron’s Plans In Idaho & CNY To Invest Over $100 Billion In NY Over The Next 20+ Years Creating Up To 50,000 Good Paying Jobs – Micron Also Announces New Expansion Plans In Virginia Further Boosting American Semiconductor Production Schumer: CHIPS Funding Is Locked In For Micron To Build In Upstate NY! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced Micron and the Department of Commerce have finalized its CHIPS agreement for up to $6.1 billion in direct funding through the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law. Schumer said this funding will support Micron’s planned landmark $100+ billion public-private investment over the next two decades – the largest private investment in New York’s history – as well as Micron’s expansion in Idaho – creating thousands of new good paying jobs. “Micron’s CHIPS funding is locked for Upstate NY. $6.1 billion from my bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law is now secured for Micron to build its new, state-of-the-art complex of memory chip fabs in Central NY and Idaho. A historic day and historic agreement for Upstate NY and America. This final award locks in the federal investment Micron needs for shovels to be able to hit the ground and create thousands of good-paying jobs here in Upstate NY,” said Senator Schumer. “Without my bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law none of this would be happening and America would be over reliant on semiconductors from overseas. The memory chips Micron makes are the bedrock of America’s future, from AI to EVs to smartphones, as well as our most sensitive defense technology. The signed CHIPS award is the start of a new chapter for Central NY and America. Today the feds make the bold investment needed to bring manufacturing back, to strengthen our national security, and to make sure America stays #1, with Micron and Central NY leading the way.” Schumer worked tirelessly for years alongside state and local leaders to advocate to Micron the many benefits of Upstate NY, including reliable and cheap water and power, a highly skilled workforce, top-notch educational and research institutions, and other capabilities to lead in semiconductor manufacturing and innovation. After years of advocacy and Schumer passing the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law which created the federal programs needed to spur semiconductor industry investment, Micron selected Central New York for its new advanced memory chip fab complex. Schumer added, “This is one of the largest single direct federal investments in Central NY’s history. I wrote the CHIPS & Science Law with Upstate NY as my north star, promising that it would deliver big. Today a promise made is a promise kept.” Over the next 20+ years, Micron plans to build a colossal complex of memory chip plants in Central New York, constructing up to four manufacturing plants at White Pine Commerce Park in Clay, NY. The company’s plans call for building a clean-room space that will cover about 2.4 million square feet, the size of almost 40 football fields. Micron is the fourth largest producer of semiconductors in the world and makes memory chips that are essential to technology people use every day, from cellphones to cars, and to critical technologies like AI as well as technologies that are used by our military. Thanks to this CHIPS funding Micron plan’s will help the U.S. grow its share of advanced memory manufacturing from less than 2% today to approximately 10% by 2035. The finalized agreement for federal CHIPS incentives will support the construction of Micron’s first two fabs in Central NY and an expansion in Idaho to help meet soaring demand for the chips Micron makes. The U.S. Department of Commerce will disburse funds in the coming years as Micron meets project milestones agreed to in the final award. In addition, the Commerce Department also announced today a new Preliminary Memorandum of Terms (PMT) with Micron for up to $275 million in CHIPS incentives to support a planned $2 billion expansion project at its Manassas facility in Virginia, increasing wafer production and creating thousands of new good-paying jobs. Schumer said, “We used to lead the world in making microchips, and thanks to the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law we are seeing new investments every day to make America a major hub for chip manufacturing once again. The benefits extend across America to every corner of the country, in communities of all shapes and sizes, and I applaud Micron for continuing to lay the foundation for America’s technological future.” Schumer said this transformational investment was just what he had envisioned when he championed the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law. Now, Upstate New York is quickly becoming a global hub for the semiconductor industry thanks to his efforts, boosting the country’s national security and global competitiveness. Earlier this fall Schumer also secured a major $825 million federal investment to make Albany NanoTech the first National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) flagship facility and headquarters for extreme ultraviolet (EUV) research and development that is critical to the global chip industry. Today’s award finalizes the second of five agreements in New York for federal CHIPS incentives funded by Schumer’s bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law that are spurring private sector investment and bringing manufacturing back to America. Last month, Schumer announced GlobalFoundries finalized its up to $1.5 billion funding agreement for a combined $12.5 billion public-private investment over the next ten plus years to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip fab in Malta, NY. The senator also announced that Corning Incorporated reached a $32 million CHIPS PMT funding agreement to make a $315 million investment that would increase production at their Canton facility of specialized glass vital for the semiconductor industry. In addition, Edwards Vacuum announced plans to build a new first-of-its-kind-in-the-country $300+ million dry pump manufacturing facility, supported by an $18 million CHIPS PMT funding agreement. Wolfspeed has also reached a $750 million CHIPS PMT funding agreement and plans to tap nearly $1 billion from the CHIPS Investment Tax Credit that Schumer helped create in the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law to build a new facility in North Carolina and support the expansion of their Silicon Carbide Fabrication Facility at Marcy Nanocenter in Oneida County. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/touchdown-schumer-successfully-passes-buffalo-bills-damar-hamlins-lifesaving-hearts-act,TOUCHDOWN! SCHUMER SUCCESSFULLY PASSES BUFFALO BILLS’ DAMAR HAMLIN’S LIFESAVING HEARTS ACT,2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer & Hamlin Worked Together For Months, And Tonight Schumer Successfully Passed Hamlin’s Lifesaving HEARTS Act – UNANIMOUSLY! – To Bring More AEDs To Schools Across America Schumer-Hamlin Bill Now Heads To The President’s Desk To Be Signed Into Law Chuck & Damar: Together We Got This Lifesaving Bill In The Endzone To Bring AEDs To Schools Across America After standing with Buffalo Bills’ Safety Damar Hamlin, student-athletes, and Bills Mafia earlier this week, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced he successfully passed their lifesaving HEARTS Act in the Senate, and that it will now head to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Schumer said this bipartisan legislation will help put more AEDs – like the one that saved Damar’s life – into schools and help make CPR training more accessible across America. “Touchdown! I’m proud to announce, after months of working with Damar Hamlin and the Buffalo Bills, the Senate has just passed the lifesaving HEARTS Act to put more AEDs in schools across America – like the one that saved Damar’s life,” said Senator Schumer. “Damar and I formed the perfect team, bringing together teachers, healthcare leaders and athletes to make sure every student has access to the kind of life-saving care he did. This legislation goes beyond the field and its impacts will stretch thousands of miles outside Buffalo to help millions of kids. Now, the HEARTS Act is headed to the President’s desk to be signed into law and save lives.” When Hamlin went into cardiac arrest during an NFL game in January 2023, the Bills medical team used an AED and performed CPR, saving Hamlin’s life. Since then Hamlin has used his miraculous and inspirational recovery story to help kids across the country, working with Schumer to create a new federal program that will help put more AEDs in schools. Hamlin and Schumer worked together to garner bipartisan support for the law, which passed in the House of Representatives earlier this year. Thanks to Majority Leader Schumer, that legislation has now passed the Senate and will be sent to the President’s desk. Schumer said that the bipartisan Cardiomyopathy Health Education, Awareness, Research and Training in Schools (HEARTS) Act, which has now passed both chambers and heads to the President’s desk, will provide direct grants to elementary and secondary schools. The bill will create a grant program at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to support CPR and automated external defibrillator (AED) training, in addition to supporting the purchase of AEDs and the development of cardiac emergency response plans, which can more than double survival rates from cardiac arrest by empowering people nearby to dial 911, start CPR and use an AED. In schools with AEDs, children who experience cardiac arrest are seven times as likely to survive as children in schools without AEDs. Schumer also highlighted the importance of CPR training for students and adults in schools, saying that for every minute without CPR, chances of survival drop by 10%. With more people confident in their ability to perform CPR, people experiencing cardiac arrest will get the care they need more quickly. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer_with-buffalo-bills-damar-hamlin-students-and-bills-mafia--announces-he-will-bring-hamlins-lifesaving-hearts-act-to-help-put-aeds-in-schools-across-america-to-the-senate-floor-this-week,"SCHUMER -WITH BUFFALO BILLS’ DAMAR HAMLIN, STUDENTS & BILLS MAFIA- ANNOUNCES HE WILL BRING HAMLIN’S LIFESAVING HEARTS ACT TO HELP PUT AEDS IN SCHOOLS ACROSS AMERICA TO THE SENATE FLOOR THIS WEEK",2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer & Hamlin Have Been Working Together For Months To Boost Bipartisan Support For This Bill, After Damar Suffered Cardiac Arrest During A Bills Game And Used His Miraculous and Inspirational Recovery Story To Better Protect Students Across USA HEARTS Act Would Put More Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) In Schools & Make CPR Training More Prevalent & Accessible Across The Country Chuck & Damar: We’re On The One-Yard Line! Let’s Get This Bill Into The End Zone & Bring AEDs To Schools Across America Standing with Buffalo Bills’ Safety Damar Hamlin, student-athletes, and Bills Mafia, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced he will bring the lifesaving HEARTS Act, which he and Damar have worked together on for months, to the Senate floor this week for a unanimous consent vote to be passed into law. Schumer and Hamlin are now launching their final push to show why all should support this bipartisan legislation to help schools and students be prepared to respond to cardiac emergencies by making AEDs and CPR training more accessible across America. “For months, Damar, the Buffalo Bills and I have worked together on bipartisan legislation to make CPR training accessible and put AEDs in schools across America, and now we are on the one-yard line. This week I will bring the lifesaving HEARTS Act to the Senate floor to be passed into law,” said Leader Schumer. “Damar has used his voice and turned his inspirational story of recovery into a mission to help millions of children. This legislation goes beyond the field and stretches thousands of miles outside Buffalo. Let’s get the HEARTS Act into the end zone and bring AEDs to schools across America. This bipartisan legislation will save lives, and everybody should support it.” “Since experiencing cardiac arrest, I’ve been honored to work with partners who understand how important it is to provide CPR education and have access to AEDs to save lives,” said Damar Hamlin, Buffalo Bills safety, member of the NFL Smart Heart Sports Coalition and National Ambassador for the American Heart Association's Nation of Lifesavers movement. “I’m very grateful to Senator Schumer for his work making this common-sense legislation a priority. My journey has shown us that no one expects cardiac arrest to happen - and we all need to be prepared. Working together, we have the chance now to protect kids and impact the next generation. I hope that every Senator will lend their support for this bill and that my experience with cardiac arrest will help lead to lasting change. Let’s get this done.“ When Hamlin went into cardiac arrest during an NFL game in January 2023, the Bills medical team used an AED and performed CPR, saving Hamlin’s life. Since then Hamlin has used his miraculous and inspirational recovery story to help kids across the country, working with Schumer to create a new federal program that will help put more AEDs in schools. Now Majority Leader Schumer will bring that legislation to the floor this week and launch his push to garner the final support needed to ensure it can become law. Schumer said that the bipartisan Cardiomyopathy Health Education, Awareness, Research and Training in Schools (HEARTS) Act, which the U.S. House of Representatives passed earlier this year, would provide direct grants to elementary and secondary schools. The bill would create a grant program at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to support CPR and automated external defibrillator (AED) training, in addition to supporting the purchase of AEDs and the development of cardiac emergency response plans, which can more than double survival rates from cardiac arrest by empowering people nearby to dial 911, start CPR and use an AED. Schumer explained that in schools with AEDs, children who experience cardiac arrest are seven times as likely to survive as children in schools without AEDs. Schumer also highlighted the importance of CPR training for students and adults in schools, saying that for every minute without CPR, chances of survival drop by 10%. With more people confident in their ability to perform CPR, people experiencing cardiac arrest will get the care they need more quickly. “On behalf of the NFL and more than 40 members of the Smart Heart Sports Coalition, I applaud Senator Schumer, Damar Hamlin, the Buffalo Bills organization, and all our teammates who have helped move this commonsense, lifesaving measure forward. We urge the Senate to get this important bill over the goal line and onto the President’s desk. Doing so would be a win for our schools and the health and safety of young people across the country,” said Jeff Miller, NFL Executive Vice President of Communications, Public Affairs, and Policy. “We are grateful to Majority Leader Schumer and the many champions of the HEARTS Act in Congress. The National Football League, the American Heart Association, Damar Hamlin and the Smart Heart Sports Coalition have worked for almost two years to make schools across the country safer for students, staff and visitors. The bipartisan HEARTS Act will save lives from cardiac arrest by ensuring schools nationwide have cardiac emergency response plans in place, students and staff are trained in CPR and campuses are equipped with AEDs. These proven measures could be the difference between life and death for the up to 23,000 children who experience a cardiac arrest outside of a hospital each year. Every second counts when someone experiences a cardiac arrest, and schools can’t wait one more minute to have the resources they need to save lives. We urge the Senate to send the House-passed HEARTS Act to the president’s desk for signature,” said Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association. “As a medical professional who has performed CPR and AED, I know firsthand that when cardiac emergencies happen, this technology save lives,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “The HEARTS Act will help provide schools with these life-saving devices and put CPR training in reach for more staff and families. I commend Senator Schumer for his work on this critical legislation, and Damar Hamlin for turning a harrowing experience into action that will save lives on and off the field.” “I want to thank Majority Leader Schumer, Congressman Tim Kennedy, and Damar Hamlin on working together on this important legislation that will undoubtedly save lives,” said Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz. “Erie County, with numerous community partners, has been working towards the Citizen CPR HeartSafe Community designation because we believe in the importance of getting as many of our residents trained in hands free CPR and having many publicly accessible AEDs to give someone the best chance to survive a cardiac event. This will help our efforts here in that mission.” “Over the past two years, we have worked tirelessly to make AEDs and CPR training more accessible in our community. Through our initiatives, we have supported the training of over one hundred thousand community members, empowering each of them with the knowledge and confidence to act in an emergency. Grants to schools for AEDs will ensure that students, staff, and families have access to critical resources when every second counts. Our team has experienced first-hand the impact of these life-saving measures with Damar Hamlin and Kim Pegula. This bill will make Western New York, and communities around the country safer, and ultimately save lives,” said Terry Pegula, Bills Owner/CEO/President. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-reveals-after-months-of-advocacy-schoharie-county-poised-to-be-added-to-northern-border-regional-commission-opening-up-millions-in-federal-funding-to-bolster-area-senator-launches-final-push-to-reauthorize-program-and-add-schoharie-county,"SCHUMER REVEALS: AFTER MONTHS OF ADVOCACY, SCHOHARIE COUNTY POISED TO BE ADDED TO NORTHERN BORDER REGIONAL COMMISSION, OPENING UP MILLIONS IN FEDERAL FUNDING TO BOLSTER AREA; SENATOR LAUNCHES FINAL...",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"New NBRC Bill Schumer Is Leading Would Make Schoharie Eligible For Fed Program That Has Delivered Millions For Upstate NY To Build Infrastructure, Invest In Workforce, New Businesses, Childcare and Healthcare, & More Senator Has Delivered BIG For Schoharie County in Recent Month – Securing Fed $$ To Replace Vital Bridge, Improve High-Speed Internet Access & Support Firefighters – Says Adding Them To NBRC Can Supercharge Fed Funding Further Schumer: We Secured Critical Fed Resources For Schoharie This Year & I Will Keep Fighting For More! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced, after months of advocacy, he has successfully gotten Schoharie County added to the Senate legislation reauthorizing the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC). The NBRC delivers millions to eligible New York counties every year. Schumer said he is now launching his push to pass this bill, which would unlock federal funding for Schoharie County to address critical needs across the region, including building infrastructure, investing in workforce training, childcare and healthcare, supporting new and existing businesses, and more. “The Northern Border Regional Commission has provided millions for economic opportunities for rural communities in Upstate New York for years, and after months of work I’m excited to share Schoharie County is poised to be added thanks to the reauthorization that I’m leading. This would be a huge shot in the arm for Schoharie, unlocking millions in federal funding opportunities for addressing childcare and healthcare needs, boosting infrastructure projects, supporting workforce training, helping to launch and retain businesses, and more,” said Senator Schumer. “The NBRC has been wildly successful for expanding investment in communities across Upstate NY, and I’m fighting tooth and nail to reauthorize the program and open up millions in federal funding to grow the regional economy in Schoharie County.” From 2010-2024, the NBRC has invested in over 78 projects, totaling more than $48 million in federal funding for Upstate New York. The senator explained that in addition to reauthorizing the NBRC for an additional 5 years, the bill would also increase the annual appropriation cap from $33 million to $40 million. The bill also makes critical enhancements to the range of projects the NBRC is able to support to foster growth in the region, including a new program focused on addressing childcare and healthcare needs and increasing support for addiction treatment, and new support for capacity building for business retention, job training, and job creation. Schumer introduced the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) Reauthorization Act of 2023 that paved the way for these key changes. Schumer has a long history of championing the Northern Border Regional Commission and its positive economic impacts on Upstate New York. In 2021, the senator successfully secured $150 million for the NBRC, over triple its funding from previous years, through the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act. Established in 2008, the NBRC is a federal-state partnership focused on the economic revitalization of communities across the Northern Border region, which includes New York, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The Commission is composed of the governors of the four Northern Border states and a federal co-chair and provides financial and technical assistance to communities in the region to support entrepreneurs, improve water, broadband, and transportation infrastructure, and promote other initiatives to improve the region’s economy. The northern border region of New York State currently includes 28 counties: Cayuga, Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Genesee, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Montgomery, Niagara, Oneida, Orleans, Oswego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Seneca, St. Lawrence, Sullivan, Washington, Warren, Wayne, and Yates. Schumer is now pushing to include Schoharie and Wyoming counties as well. Schumer additionally highlighted massive federal investments for Schoharie County including: Nearly $12 million to replace the Bridge Street Bridge over Schoharie Creek from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act: The Bridge Street Bridge is a vital connector in Schoharie County, but after 100 years of use, it is nearing the end of its useful life. The federal funding secured by the senator will help the county build a new bridge, increasing safety and creating jobs. New York State has put a weight restriction on the bridge due to its condition, and the county is concerned that further disrepair could eventually limit its use by emergency vehicles. The nearest bridge is approximately 10 miles away, adding 20-25 minutes in commute time. The senator also said that farm vehicles use the bridge regularly, and the bridge is vital to the county’s thriving rural agricultural economy. $30 million for high-speed internet improvements from the American Rescue Plan and bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act: The Broadband for Schoharie County project will construct 298 miles of fiber to connect more than 4,000 locations, including substantially all of the unserved locations in the county. The new infrastructure will bring high-speed internet to the most rural and hard to reach areas of the county. $180,000+ for firefighters in Schoharie and Richmondville from the Assistance for Firefighters grant program: This critical funding will ensure that firefighters in Schoharie County have the federal support they need to purchase modern equipment and combat emergencies. Schumer stood with firefighters across the state to fight to successfully preserve and fund this program earlier this year. “As Majority Leader in the Senate I have always made sure NY is on the front of my mind. Earlier this fall, I was proud to announce a major $11.6 million in federal funding to boost efforts to replace the Bridge Street Bridge, a vital connector in Schoharie County that is nearing the end of its useful life after 100 years. With the closest bridge more than 20 minutes away, this funding from my bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act will reduce travel time for emergency vehicles, keep people safe, and provide a key transportation route for the region’s economy and quality of life. I’m also excited to have delivered a whopping $30 million to help Schoharie County improve high-speed internet service, connecting more than 4,000 locations. Lastly, I’m glad that over $180,000 is going to help firefighters in Schoharie and Richmondville increase preparedness. I stood with firefighters across Upstate New York to push for the reauthorization of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program so that they have the federal support they need to purchase modern equipment and combat emergencies. It’s been a great year delivering critical federal resources for Schoharie, and adding Schoharie to the NBRC means that we could get even more. I will keep fighting for more and believe the best is yet to come!” added Schumer. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-reveals-with-critical-fed-program-for-mohawk-valley-dairy-farmers-in-limbo-senator-launches-push-to-ensure-we-dont-go-over-the-dairy-cliff-and-protect-critical-monthly-payments-for-dairy-farmers-in-herkimer-county-the-mohawk-valley-and-across-upstate-ny,"SCHUMER REVEALS: WITH CRITICAL FED PROGRAM FOR MOHAWK VALLEY DAIRY FARMERS IN LIMBO, SENATOR LAUNCHES PUSH TO ENSURE WE DON’T GO OVER THE “DAIRY CLIFF” AND PROTECT CRITICAL MONTHLY PAYMENTS FOR DAIRY...",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"“Dairy Margin Coverage Program” Schumer Helped Enact Will Expire This Month, Meaning Without Fed Action Monthly Payments To Dairy Farmers – Including In Herkimer County Which Has Over 10,000 Dairy Cows & Is Major Milk Producer – Could Cease Schumer Says Upstate Dairy Farms and Consumers Will Be First Impacted If We “Go Over The Dairy Cliff” – Reverting Back To 1940's-Era Policy, Leading To Severe Supply Chain Disruptions, Increasing Price Of Milk, And Causing Billions In Avoidable Fed Spending Schumer: We Cannot Afford To Let Fed Support For Mohawk Valley Dairies Spoil, Must Extend Vital Fed Dairy Program Standing at Casler Family Farm in Little Falls, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today revealed how the vital Dairy Margin Coverage Program (DMC) Mohawk Valley dairy farmers rely on is in limbo as the program is set to expire, which could have farmers facing a “dairy cliff,’ – an outcome that could double wallop farmers and consumers. Schumer explained the DMC, which offers monthly price support payments from the feds to dairy farmers, will end this month and if no action is taken would lead to less support for our farmers, severe supply chain disruptions, and an increase in the price of milk. Schumer said it is imperative we protect this program to ensure Upstate New York dairy farmers have the support and safety net they need. “Dairy is the lifeblood of Herkimer County agriculture with over 10,000 dairy cows producing over 70% of the county’s agricultural sales dollars. But by the end of this year many of our Mohawk Valley dairy farms could be looking over a ‘dairy cliff’ that threatens lifeline payments, puts the industry in limbo, and increases the price of milk,” said Senator Schumer. “The Dairy Margin Coverage Program is essential to support our farmers, like Casler Family Farm, and to keep the best quality milk made from New York farms flowing to families across America. I helped enact the Dairy Margin Coverage Program in the 2018 Farm Bill and it is imperative we extend it before it expires at the end of this year. I will not stop fighting to ensure this critical program and safety net for our Upstate dairy farmers is protected.” “Herkimer County is at the heart of Upstate New York’s dairy industry, and the looming “Dairy Cliff” threatens an essential safety net for our dairy farmers. Going over the Dairy Cliff would add more risk and uncertainty into dairy markets, disrupt supply chains, increase milk prices at grocery stores, and more. With most of Herkimer County’s agricultural sales driven by dairy farms, renewal of the Dairy Margin Coverage Program is absolutely critical to maintaining the stable dairy markets that the countless rural, farm-driven communities across our region depend on,” said Daniel Casler, Little Falls Town Supervisor and Casler Family Farm Owner. “On behalf of dairy farmers in Herkimer County and across New York State, I would like to extend our collective appreciation to Senator Schumer for fighting to reauthorize the Dairy Margin Coverage program and protect our state’s dairy farms. I’ve heard it said before that the greatest function of Government is to do for the tax paying citizenry what they cannot ordinarily do for themselves. I commend Senator Schumer for continuing to carry the torch in pursuit of that function – and for doing so here at my farm, in support of dairy farmers like me.” “The dairy industry is a vital part of the economy here in New York State. Dairy farms provide jobs and revenue within our rural communities which helps support our schools and other businesses throughout the state. DMC has been a critical program over the last decade to sustain dairy producers through times of low milk prices and high feed costs,” said Jim Barber, USDA FSA New York State Executive Director. “I want to sincerely thank Senator Schumer for his long-standing support of the DMC program and his push to get it extended for 2024 and hopefully, again for 2025.” Schumer explained the ‘dairy cliff’ refers to the expiration of the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program, a risk management tool that offers protection to dairy producers when the difference between the all-milk price and the average feed price (the margin) falls below a certain dollar amount selected by the producer. If Congress doesn’t pass a farm bill extension and the DMC is allowed to lapse, the dairy industry would be the first impacted, as dairy farmers would lose out on monthly payments through the DMC, whereas farmers participating in other support programs are paid just once per year around harvest time. If we were to “go over the dairy cliff” that would mean: An end to monthly price support payments to dairy farmers who participate in the Dairy Margin Coverage program Massive supply chain disruptions that could reduce access to fluid milk, increase the price of dairy products, and have lasting impacts on farmers, families, and food banks Billions of dollars in avoidable federal government spending Herkimer County is home to 85 dairy farms and 10,400 dairy cows, putting it in the top 10% of dairy counties nationwide. According to the New York State Agriculture and Markets 2023 New York State Dairy Statistics Annual Summary, Herkimer County dairies produce over $65,569,000 in sales annually representing over 70% of the county’s sales in agricultural products. The county’s dairy farms market 279,000 pounds of milk per farm, and over 23,721,000 total pounds of milk annually. Herkimer County ranks as the 22nd top dairy-producing county in New York, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s most recent Census of Agriculture. Similarly, Oneida County has an estimated 138 dairy farms, and ranked as the 14th dairy producing county in NY. Casler Family Farm in Little Falls is a multi-generational dairy farm with local roots dating back over 300 years, owned and operated by 10th and 11th generation Herkimer County dairy farmers Daniel and Jerimiah Casler. The 1000-acre farm is home to ~110 grass fed, milking cows that produce ~120,000 gallons of fresh, local milk annually. In 2000, the Casler Family Farm was recognized for their bicentennial anniversary by the New York State Agriculture Society. According to Daniel Casler, Casler Family Farm has long been an active user and beneficiary of the DMC, its predecessor MILC, and other USDA farm support programs from EQIP to ARC, PLC and more. In the last 3-4 years, the Casler’s dairy farm has directly benefited to the tune of ~$20,000 from the DMC alone. Casler Family Farm is a member of the Organic Valley Cooperative and has been certified organic since 2005. Daniel Casler is a member of the National Farmers Organization Board of Directors and a founding member of the Institute for Rural America. Failing to extend this provision and going over the dairy cliff would not only negatively impact payments to dairy farmers, but it would also cause massive market disruption for larger factories as well as smaller dairy operations like Casler Family Farm, major price increases for consumers, and avoidable increases in government spending. Schumer explained that the only way to avoid going over the dairy cliff is for Congress to come together in a bipartisan fashion, as they have always done, to reauthorize these programs in the next Farm Bill. The senator explained that the Farm Bill is usually enacted every five to seven years. Although the current Farm Bill, which was passed in 2018, expired on September 30, 2023, Congress passed a one-year extension of the 2018 farm bill last September and has until December 31, 2024 to pass another extension before potentially detrimental impacts to farmers begin, including going over the dairy cliff. The dairy industry would begin to see severe impacts starting January 1, 2025. If no farm bill extension is passed and the DMC is allowed to lapse, the country would be forced to revert back to 1940’s agriculture policy. Farmers would lose the support and protection offered by the DMC and the law would require the federal government to stabilize prices by taking milk off the market through milk purchases. The government would be required to purchase milk at a price that is more than double the current market price, which could cost the federal government billions of dollars in otherwise avoidable spending and could result in price increases being passed onto consumers, which would have devastating impacts on consumers and nutrition programs that offer milk and dairy products to people in need. The availability of fluid milk and dairy products could also be impacted; consumers could see fewer options in stores and food manufacturers could see less dairy product availability for products like baby formula, protein powder, and other products that use dairy ingredients. The widespread supply chain and market disruption caused by the DMC’s expiration would have devastating impacts on the dairy industry, farmers, and consumers across the country. The dairy industry is one of New York's largest contributors to the agricultural economy. According to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Dairy statistics, there are nearly 3,000 dairy farms in New York that produce over 16.1 billion pounds of milk annually, making New York the nation’s fifth largest dairy state. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-kennedy-announce-23-million-for-erie-county-to-supercharge-its-battery-recycling-program-via-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-and-jobs-law,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, KENNEDY ANNOUNCE $2.3+ MILLION FOR ERIE COUNTY TO SUPERCHARGE ITS BATTERY RECYCLING PROGRAM VIA THE BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE & JOBS LAW",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Funding Will Support Erie County’s Efforts To Collect 1 Million Pounds Of Batteries, Keeping Them Out Of Landfills, Which Risks Community Safety & Pollutes The Environment – Instead Recycling Them Into New Rechargeable Batteries Schumer, Gillibrand, Kennedy: Our Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law Is Helping Power A Cleaner Future For Erie County U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Congressman Tim Kennedy today announced $2,375,262 in federal funding for Erie County to bolster its battery recycling program to collect and repurpose old batteries, keeping them out of landfills and turning them into new, rechargeable batteries. The federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Energy’s State and Local Battery Recycling Program, which is funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law that Schumer led to passage in the Senate. “I’m proud to deliver $2.3+ million for Erie County to supercharge its battery recycling program,” said Senator Schumer. “Thanks to this new investment from our Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, Erie County will lead the charge to collect old batteries and recycle them into new, rechargeable batteries. When batteries from everyday electronics end up in landfills it pollutes our environment and risks public safety, but this will boost Erie County to turn these old batteries into something new. America can’t keep relying on batteries made overseas, and plans like Erie County’s will strengthen our domestic battery supply chain, while helping power a cleaner future for all.” “Improperly disposed batteries typically end up in landfills, where they take years to decompose and often release harmful chemicals into the environment,” said Senator Gillibrand. “By creating a collection system for all types of batteries and educating the public about the importance of proper battery disposal, the BEAR Program will help keep rechargeable batteries out of Erie County landfills and recycling facilities, reducing risks to sanitation workers and the environment. I’m proud to have helped secure this funding, and I look forward to seeing its positive impact on Erie County.” “This investment will transform the way people in Erie County recycle their household batteries, keeping more of these products out of landfills and in our critical mineral supply chain to propel EV accessibility,” said Congressman Kennedy. “This program will also educate consumers on proper disposal to protect first responder and sanitation workers from potential hazards of battery byproducts. I’m especially pleased that this program will be carried out by a Buffalo-based minority and woman owned small business—empowering our community for generations to come.” The lawmakers explained that Erie County’s Battery Education and Recycling (BEAR) program aims to create a robust and equitable collection system for consumer batteries of all types through drop-off kiosks, collection partners, and collection events. In the next five years, Erie County aims for 1 million pounds of batteries to be collected for recycling, and it is estimated that 30% of that total will be rechargeable batteries. The BEAR Program will support the establishment of a robust domestic supply chain for critical minerals essential to electric vehicle batteries by investing in the recycling of batteries and battery-containing devices. The pilot plans to launch the battery collection and recycling program first in Erie County and then throughout New York State via the State University of New York (SUNY) system. The program will also educate members of the community about items in their home and property that contain rechargeable batteries, safe handling of rechargeable batteries, and the fire and safety hazards that can be associated with the batteries. The lawmakers said the program seeks to keep rechargeable batteries out of landfills and recycling facilities, reducing risks to first responders and sanitation workers and releases of hazardous materials into the environment. “Battery recycling is a critical component of a cleaner environment and gives residents an easy way to avoid contaminating groundwater by disposing of used batteries safely. Too often, household batteries wind up in the trash because people are unaware that a recycling option exists, so the BEAR program addresses this need head on,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “I thank Senator Schumer for his support of this pilot initiative and look forward to great results and a cleaner environment for the future.” “Erie County has a long history of collaborating with partners to deliver solid and hazardous waste collection programs for County residents. Collecting and recycling batteries has always been a challenge. With his funding from DOE and Senator Schumer, Erie County will work with the NYS Center for Sustainable Materials Management and the Monarch of Infinite Possibilities, a local woman-owned business that has a proven track record of community outreach and engagement, to expand our efforts to provide this critical new service to all Erie County residents and several SUNY campuses,” said Daniel Castle, Commissioner of the Erie County Department of Environment & Planning. ""For too long, many communities that have been disproportionately impacted, have been left out of environmentally-related conversations like these. The Monarch of Infinite Possibilities welcomes a chance to bring faith-based stakeholders to the table to learn about the global impact recycling lithium batteries will make as we collectively take actionable steps to save our planet and make the environment safe for generations to come as stewards of the earth,"" said Faustenia Morrow, Principal of Monarch of Infinite Possibilities. The federal funding announced today comes from the U.S. Department of Energy’s State and Local Battery Recycling Program which is funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law which Schumer led to passage in the Senate provides $6 billion for federal incentives to build a domestic battery production industry and a battery mineral supply chain industry, bolstering domestic battery production and shoring up the American supply chain for batteries and energy storage technology that is often reliant on foreign sources. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/amid-high-food-prices-gillibrand-calls-for-nearly-2-billion-to-fund-nutrition-programs-for-older-americans/,"Amid High Food Prices, Gillibrand Calls For Nearly $2 Billion To Fund Nutrition Programs For Older Americans",2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a video press conference to call for $1.842 billion in funding for the Older Americans Act (OAA) Title III-C Nutrition Program, which provides affordable meals to older adults. The funding will help deliver 251 million nutritious meals to 2.2 million older adults facing hunger nationwide, helping meet increasing demand for nutrition programs amid high grocery prices. Senator Gillibrand sent a bicameral letter calling on congressional leadership and appropriators to deliver this funding as part of the FY25 government funding package. “Low-cost meal deliveries are a lifeline for older Americans, especially as food prices remain high,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Nutrition programs help seniors on fixed incomes access nutritious food they might not otherwise be able to afford; ensure that disabled seniors don’t go hungry because they cannot get to the grocery store; and provide homebound seniors with much-needed social interaction. That’s why I’m calling for $1.842 billion to fund these programs, which allow our seniors to stay healthy and age with dignity in their own homes.” Senior nutrition programs help organizations like Meals on Wheels deliver nutritious food directly to seniors in need. They are associated with a variety of positive outcomes, including the reduction of hunger, food insecurity, malnutrition, social isolation, and health care costs. The full text of Senator Gillibrand’s letter to House and Senate appropriators is available here or below: Dear Chair Murray, Vice Chair Collins, and Chairman Cole, and Ranking Member DeLauro: Thank you for the Committee’s bipartisan leadership in providing resources to the Older Americans Act (OAA) Title III-C Nutrition Program. As you consider the FY 2025 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, we urge you to continue to provide sufficient funding for the OAA Title III-C Nutrition Program. This funding enables the delivery of 251 million nutritious meals annually to 2.2 million older adults facing hunger and isolation. To meet these needs address rising demand and higher costs for food and program operations that have resulted in significant waitlists at numerous programs across the country, we request at least $1.842 billion for the OAA Title III-C Nutrition Services program to continue administering essential nutrition programs that support the health and wellness of our nation’s most vulnerable older adults. This program has historically been backed by bipartisan support. Since 1972, the OAA Nutrition Program has been successfully meeting its purposes to: reduce hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition of older adults; promote socialization of older individuals; and promote the health and well-being of older people. By providing nutritious meals and social connection delivered in congregate settings, such as senior centers, or directly to one’s home, Title III-C Nutrition Programs allow older adults to age in the dignity and security of their own homes. These nutrition services also reduce costly healthcare expenditures stemming from preventable hospitalizations and premature nursing home placements. Put simply, this effective community-based and federally supported program improves senior health, safety, social connection and more while simultaneously saves healthcare funds. The number of Americans 65 years and older is increasing. Currently 1 in 4 Americans is older than 60, with 12,000 more turning 60 every day. By 2030 the number of older adults is expected to reach 91 million, with 112 million expected by 2060. Demand for OAA services is expected to increase in the coming years as the older adult population continues to increase. Food insecurity has long been a problem for older adults. In 2022, at least 7 million older Americans faced food insecurity. The National Council on Aging reports that hunger is more likely for older Americans who are Black, Hispanic, or Native American, who have lower incomes, or who have a disability. Mental health is also affected by food insecurity as 24% of food insecure older adults report fair or poor mental health compared to 5% of food secure older adults. Economic insecurity is prevalent among older adults with more than 17 million facing incomes below 200% of the federal poverty level. Older adults, particularly those who are vulnerable and underserved, are disproportionately sensitive to rising food prices with many financially dependent on fixed incomes. Data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) show that the all-food Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by a total of 20.4%, higher than the all-items CPI which only grew at 16.5%. These prices were 2.3% in 2024 than in 2023. Increasing food costs affect nutrition delivery services which would need an estimated $32 million in federal funding just to offset FY25 inflation. About one in four older adults 65+ already scrimp on food, utilities, clothing, or medication to pay for medical care. Economic and food insecurity in light of rising food costs are specifically problematic to older adults due to decreased mobility, limited shopping and cooking ability, and health challenges. Services provided under the OAA Title III-C Nutrition Program are shown to improve physical and mental health outcomes among older adults. For example, a Meals on Wheels America report shows that malnourishment and feelings of social isolation improve among participants receiving daily-delivered meals. Older adults receiving regular meals report feeling safer at home. This study also reports that hospitalizations decreased significantly when comparing 3 months before and after enrollment. Feelings of social isolation were significantly improved among those living alone who receive daily-delivered meals. Meals on Wheels America notes that “A knock at the door might not seem like a big deal to many of us. But, to a homebound senior, it could signal the arrival of the only person they might see all day or all week long. It brings hope. It brings health. It brings the nutrition and care that will completely make their day. A knock from Meals on Wheels can even save lives.” Investing in the OAA – a program that represents just one-hundredth of 1% of the entire federal budget – saves taxpayer dollars by reducing premature and costly Medicare and Medicaid expenditures resulting from unnecessary nursing home placement or hospitalizations due to poor nutrition and chronic health conditions. We respectfully request the FY25 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill include at least $1.842 billion for these vital nutrition programs. These vital OAA services fulfill our nation’s commitment to supporting the right of all people to live independently and age with dignity, regardless of income or location. Thank you. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-confirmation-of-elizabeth-c-coombe-to-serve-on-u-s-district-court-for-the-northern-district-of-new-york/,Gillibrand Statement On Confirmation Of Elizabeth C. Coombe To Serve On U.S. District Court For The Northern District Of New York,2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"U.S. Senator Gillibrand applauded the confirmation of Elizabeth C. Coombe to the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York. Senator Gillibrand recommended Ms. Coombe to President Biden earlier this year and she was nominated in August 2024. “I am honored and grateful that the Senate has confirmed Elizabeth C. Coombe to serve on the United States District for the Northern District of New York,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Ms. Coombe is an exceptional trial lawyer with decades of experience in the U.S. Attorney’s office, and she has extensive experience handling complex criminal, civil, national security and administrative matters. Ms. Coombe will bring a brilliant legal mind to the bench, and I look forward to her tenure. I congratulate her on this well-deserved honor.” Elizabeth C. Coombe has served as the First Assistant United States Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York since 2018. She joined the Office in 2003 and previously served as Chief of its Criminal Division from 2014 to 2018. Earlier in her career, Ms. Coombe served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia from 1998 to 2003; a trial attorney in the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch from 1996 to 1997; and a staff attorney in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Enforcement Division from 1994 to 1996. She served as a law clerk for Judge Diana E. Murphy on the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota from 1992 to 1994. Ms. Coombe received her J.D., cum laude, from the University of Michigan Law School in 1992 and her B.A., summa cum laude, from Hamilton College in 1989. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-confirmation-of-judge-anthony-brindisi-to-serve-on-u-s-district-court-for-the-northern-district-of-new-york/,Gillibrand Statement On Confirmation Of Judge Anthony Brindisi To Serve On U.S. District Court For The Northern District Of New York,2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"U.S. Senator Gillibrand applauded the confirmation of Judge Anthony Brindisi to the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York. Senator Gillibrand recommended Judge Brindisi to President Biden earlier this year and he was nominated in July 2024. “I am honored and grateful that the Senate has confirmed Judge Brindisi to serve on the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Judge Brindisi is an accomplished and exceptionally qualified attorney with a long and distinguished record of public service. Our legal system will be well served by his sharp legal mind and commitment to fair and equal justice. I congratulate him on this well-deserved honor and look forward to his tenure on the bench.” Judge Anthony J. Brindisi has been a judge on the New York State Court of Claims in Utica, New York since 2022. In addition, Judge Brindisi has been serving as an Acting Supreme Court Justice in Oneida County, New York since the beginning of 2024. Prior to joining the bench, Judge Brindisi was an attorney at Brindisi, Murad & Brindisi Pearlman, LLP in Utica, New York from 2021 to 2022. From 2019 to 2021, Judge Brindisi served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives representing New York’s 22nd congressional district. Before that, he represented the Utica and Rome region in the New York State Assembly from 2011 to 2018. Before and during his tenure in the New York State Assembly, Judge Brindisi also practiced law at Brindisi, Murad & Brindisi Pearlman, LLP. Judge Brindisi received his J.D. from Albany Law School in 2004 and his B.A. from Siena College in 2000. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-kennedy-deliver-7-million-for-erie-county-to-remove-lead-paint-from-aging-homes-protecting-western-ny-children-and-families-from-risk-of-lead-poisoning,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, KENNEDY DELIVER $7 MILLION FOR ERIE COUNTY TO REMOVE LEAD PAINT FROM AGING HOMES, PROTECTING WESTERN NY CHILDREN & FAMILIES FROM RISK OF LEAD POISONING",2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Fed $$ Will Help Rid Hundreds Of Homes In The City Of Buffalo & Erie County Of Lead Paint Hazards & Increase Education Initiatives To Protect Families U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Congressman Tim Kennedy announced $7,000,000 in federal funding for Erie County from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program. The lawmakers explained that the funding will be used to address lead-based paint hazards in hundreds of local homes, improving the health of children and families in Buffalo & Erie County. “No amount of toxic lead exposure is safe for the children of Buffalo and Erie County. Today, I am proud to announce we have secured $7 million in federal funding for Erie County to remove lead paint from homes to protect hundreds of our children and the whole community’s public health,” said Senator Schumer. “Lead poisoning is an irreversible, preventable tragedy that robs many families and children of their future. This major federal funding is the shot in the arm that Buffalo and Erie County need to boost lead paint removal and prevention and protect the health and safety of families across Western NY.” “Everyone deserves a home free of potential health risks, yet thousands of New York families are exposed to dangerous lead paint daily. This exposure is especially harmful to children, who are at disproportionate risk for adverse effects,” said Senator Gillibrand. “By providing federal dollars to help fix old homes and preserve affordable housing, this investment will improve the health of New York’s communities by addressing lead-based paint hazards. I’m proud to announce this grant, and I will continue working to keep New Yorkers safe from environmental hazards and housing-related health risks.” “Historic housing and walkable neighborhoods are part of what makes Buffalo such a great place to live, but we need to make sure that our housing is safe for the families that call our city home,” said Congressman Kennedy. “Lead paint jeopardizes the development of our children and the wellbeing of people across our community. This federal funding will help remove lead paint that is often hidden in plain sight in homes and lived spaces, particularly benefiting communities in Western New York with elevated lead exposure. With investments like this one, we're making our region healthier and setting the next generation on a path to success."" The lawmakers explained that the funding will protect between hundreds of families & children through hazard control and capacity-building activities in addition to helping Erie County complete risk-assessments at 360+ housing units, and complete and clear 300+ housing units of lead hazards. Erie County will also boost community-wide education initiatives to teach residents living in at-risk zip codes, homeowners, and contractors about lead safety. “Lead is a silent scourge in our community, lurking in older homes where it can do damage to unsuspecting children. Every effort to protect children from lead poisoning and create a lead-free community should be made and I thank Majority Leader Schumer, Senator Gillibrand and Congressman Kennedy for securing this funding for Erie County,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “Working together we can continue to improve the health of children and families by making their home environments lead-free.” “Children deserve safe spaces where they can live, play, learn and grow – spaces that are free of toxic elements like lead,” said Erie County Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein. “The devastating and lifelong health impacts of lead poisoning are preventable, and these federal funds will support activities that we know work to protect children’s health: addressing lead-based paint hazards and improving the quality and safety of our local housing stock.” According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), lead is much more harmful to children than adults because it can affect children’s developing nerves and brains. Lead-based paint, still encasing the walls of many homes, often erodes and settles on children’s toys on the floor, eventually falling into the hands and mouths of children. For children under the age of 6, lead exposure can result in developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral issues, which may lead to lifelong health and financial consequences. Schumer has long advocated for protecting New York’s children and families in the past by securing millions of dollars in federal funding to eradicate these toxic elements from homes in order to reduce lead poisoning cases. Lead poisoning can cause developmental difficulties, physical pain, and neurological damage. The purpose of the Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program is to identify and control lead-based paint hazards in eligible privately-owned housing for rental or owner-occupants. These grants are used to assist municipalities in carrying out lead hazard control activities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-the-death-of-omer-neutra/,Gillibrand Statement On The Death Of Omer Neutra,2024-12-02,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement on the confirmation of Omer Neutra’s death on October 7th: “Today, New York mourns the loss of one of our own. The grandson of Holocaust survivors, Omer Neutra was a Long Island native who loved the New York Knicks. He loved Israel and felt a duty to serve, deferring his acceptance to Binghamton University to spend a gap year in Israel before he joined the IDF. On October 7th, he fiercely defended the communities near the Gaza border when Hamas terrorists attacked. For over a year, his parents lived in hope that their son was still alive. But today, their worst fears were confirmed. My heart breaks for them and their entire family as they face this unbearable loss. But I am also filled with pride in the life that Omer lived. His heroism and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and I will not rest until his body is returned home. May his memory be a blessing.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-standing-at-penn-yan-farm-after-toxic-algae-blooms-ravaged-finger-lakes-end-of-summer-season-launches-two-pronged-push-to-increase-fed_to-help-farmers-and-community-keep-upstate-nys-lakes--waters-clean,"SCHUMER, STANDING AT PENN YAN FARM AFTER TOXIC ALGAE BLOOMS RAVAGED FINGER LAKES END OF SUMMER SEASON, LAUNCHES TWO-PRONGED PUSH TO INCREASE FED $$ TO HELP FARMERS & COMMUNITY KEEP UPSTATE NY’S LAKES...",2024-11-11,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Finger Lakes Saw Record Harmful Algal Blooms At The End Of Summer & Into Fall, More Than Anywhere Else In NYS Potentially Threatening Drinking Water, Environment, And Region’s Robust Tourism Economy Schumer Says Fed Resources Are Key To Making Sure We Can Mitigate HABs And Will Launch His Push To Surge Funding To Fed Program That Helps Local Farmers Get Paid To Help Prevent These Outbreaks & Great Lakes Initiative That Is Vital To Keeping Our Upstate Waters Clean Schumer: We Can’t Have The Finger Lakes Swimming With Toxic Algae, It’s Time For Feds To Invest Now To Prevent Another Outbreak! Standing at the Henderson Family Farm in Penn Yan, after the Finger Lakes region was ravaged by one of the worst toxic algae blooms seasons at the end of summer and into the fall, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer launched his two-pronged plan to boost federal funding for farmers and communities to combat harmful algal blooms (HABs) in the Finger Lakes region. First, Schumer wants to boost funding for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), which provides direct financial assistance to farmers looking to protect waterways and prevent runoff that leads to HABs, which has helped support local farms like those in Penn Yan. Second, Schumer highlighted the importance of reauthorizing the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) and increasing support in it for programs to combat HABs to protect Upstate NY’s waterways. “At the end of this summer tourism season the Finger Lakes saw some of the worst toxic algae blooms in recent memory. We can’t have our waterways swimming with harmful algae, hurting our local economies, closing our beaches, stopping fishing and putting community health at risk,” said Senator Schumer. “The feds need to step up to provide additional support to make sure our beautiful Upstate lakes stay safe and algae free. That’s why I’m launching my two-pronged push to keep our waters clean. Boosting programs like EQIP is a win-win supporting our local farmers who know how to care for the land and reauthorizing the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which provides the grants communities need for local preservation projects. We need to make sure next season is better than the last when it comes to HABs, and that all can enjoy the full natural beauty and economic energy of the Finger Lakes.” Matt Henderson of Henderson Family Farm in Penn Yan said, “As the fourth generation of my family to farm land in Yates County, we know first-hand the value in being good stewards to conserve and protect the land and our natural resources like the Finger Lakes. We appreciate Senator Schumer’s support for programs like EQIP that have enabled farms like ours to work with USDA NRCS experts to implement new ways to reduce erosion and farm runoff into our watersheds and Finger Lakes.” HABs, which Schumer explained look like little blue-green streaks in the water, can be harmless but can also pose a threat to humans and animals if ingested, causing respiratory illness, skin rashes, eye irritation, and even liver damage. This year, the Finger Lakes region has seen an unprecedented surge in HABs, impacting major lakes throughout the area. Seneca Lake reported a record-breaking 50 confirmed blooms from August 24-29 alone, while Canandaigua Lake recorded 42 blooms in a single week from September 6-13, causing the closure of swimming beaches at Kershaw Park and Lakeshore Park. Cayuga Lake experienced 16 confirmed blooms, stretching from Ithaca to Seneca Falls, and Keuka Lake reported 21 blooms, 11 of which were identified as HABs. This surge highlights the growing urgency to address nutrient runoff and environmental changes contributing to HABs, emphasizing the need for targeted action to protect public health and support the region's ecosystems and economy. Schumer said the federal EQIP has been very successful and is a win-win program and he wants to surge funding to expand it. Over 250 farms in the Finger Lakes have received a total of over $10.4 million in EQIP grants over the past 3 years to pay for ground cover, drainage, erosion mitigation, and other projects that help prevent the erosion and nutrient runoff that can fuel HABs in the Upstate NY waterways. The Henderson Farm was recently able to tap EQIP for a number of new improvements to address nutrient runoff. Specifically, farm owner Matt Henderson used EQIP to work with USDA NRCS officials to plant cover crops on nearly 200 acres in the fall after their buckwheat harvest to absorb excess nutrients in the soil and prevent erosion into the area’s watershed via the small wetlands and seasonal streams on the farm. In addition, the farm transitioned from full tillage to reduced or no tillage farming practices across 300 acres. Tillage erosion is a major cause of soil and nutrient movement across lands because the tilling breaks up the soil structure, which increases surface runoff and erosion. EQIP provides agricultural grants and technical assistance to farmers to help them adopt conservation practices that reduce their farm’s environmental impact, including addressing the increased number of HABs that are impacting our Finger Lakes, while reducing costs on farms. Some benefits of implementing agricultural conservation practices include efficient nutrient use and improved soil health, which reduces both costs for farmers and runoff into local waterways that contribute to HABs growth while also improving the farm’s resiliency to drought. EQIP is administered by the USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). Schumer said it is important to fully fund NRCS to ensure there is adequate staffing and resources to help local farmers, like Matt Henderson with Henderson Farms in the Town of Milo, get the assistance they need to implement cost saving, climate-smart agricultural practices. That is why Schumer is pushing to increase NRCS funding to $985 million in the end of year government spending bill. Since the program’s inception in 1996, New York farmers have received over $137 million in funding from EQIP, including $23 million in 2023 alone, the largest amount of funding the state has received in a single year. Schumer also discussed his second push to increase the funding authority for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) to $500 million and reauthorize the program through 2031 to ensure Great Lakes ecosystems, including in the Finger Lakes, can continue to thrive. The GLRI supports grants and cost-sharing programs that, similar to EQIP, allow farmers to reduce their fertilizer use and minimize nutrient loss to the environment that contributes to HABs growth. Schumer has been a relentless champion for the Great Lakes, including securing a historic $1 billion – the largest ever single investment – in the GLRI as a part of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law. Supporting projects that reduce nutrients lost from agriculture is a priority for the GLRI. By helping farmers make fertilizers more efficient so less nutrients are lost to the environment, the GLRI can help prevent the growth of these HABs in local lakes. Schumer explained that the GLRI, which expires in FY2027, has had a significant impact on Upstate NY since its inception in 2010, including the creation of the Genesee River Demonstration Farms Network that is working with Finger Lakes region farms to innovate new conservation practices that not only benefit the farms, but improve water quality, reduce runoff, and improve natural resources. Schumer has long been a champion for the Great Lakes, fighting off budget cuts to the GLRI in 2019 and working to secure a multimillion-dollar increase in authorization levels for the program in 2018. Schumer, along with his fellow Great Lakes Senators, is pushing to increase the funding authority for the GLRI to $500 million and reauthorize the program through 2031 to ensure Great Lakes ecosystems remain healthy for generations to come. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-with-major-new-manufacturers-coming-to-cny-we-need-to-get-aging-rail-infrastructure-back-on-track-standing-at-the-old-susquehanna-train-station-schumer-delivers-major_to-modernize-cortland-syracuse-freight-rail-corridor,"SCHUMER: WITH MAJOR NEW MANUFACTURERS COMING TO CNY WE NEED TO GET AGING RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE BACK ON TRACK; STANDING AT THE OLD SUSQUEHANNA TRAIN STATION, SCHUMER DELIVERS MAJOR $$ TO MODERNIZE...",2024-11-11,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The NYSW Main Line Connecting Cortland & Onondaga Counties Is A Vital Corridor For Freight Rail Needed For Central NY Industry & Manufacturing – And Is Expected To Become Even More Critical With Major Projects Like Micron On The Horizon - But Early 1900s Infrastructure Has Limited Load Sizes And Sustainability Of Line Schumer Recently Secured Millions In New Fed $$ For The Final Piece Of The Puzzle, Allowing NYSW To Complete Final Phase Of Upgrades To Increase Capacity, Reliability, Safety, & More In CNY – Bringing The Total Federal Investment Above $10 Million Schumer: We Need To Keep Central NY Moving Full Steam Ahead For Next Chapter! Standing at the Old Susquehanna Train Station in Cortland County, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer announced $3,961,750 in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to complete a major modernization project for New York, Susquehanna & Western Railway’s (NYSW) Main Line stretching between Cortland and Onondaga Counties. Schumer said the funding will help replace miles of near century old rail to increase safety, reliability, capacity, and sustainability, all of which are critical for major economic development in Central NY. “The feds just greenlit the third and final phase of a major rail modernization project for the NYSW railway’s corridor between Cortland and Syracuse. Many of the rail tracks are old – dating back to the early 1900s – and in need of major repair, which is why I’m proud to deliver almost $4 million from my Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to increase the railway’s safety and capacity, to help ensure major manufacturing projects like Micron’s historic $100+ billion investment and many more can have access to the modern freight rail infrastructure they need,” said Senator Schumer. “We need to keep Central NY moving full steam ahead to its next chapter and this funding will help finally get our freight rail infrastructure back on the right track. This not only boosts our industry and makes sure it stays connected to the national freight rail network, but will benefit Cortland and the surrounding area all along I-81 by helping keep trucks off highways to reduce traffic. I’m thrilled that the rail improvement program I fought to boost funding for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law is continuing to deliver for Central NY.” The federal funding today comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program. This award brings the total federal investment in NYSW’s project to $10,360,220, including $3,467,348 in FY’22 CRISI funding and $2,931,122 in FY’21 CRISI funding, all a direct result of the historic increases in funding for the program Schumer fought to secure in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. “With the steadfast support of Senator Schumer and the local governments in Onondaga and Cortland counties, we’re making transformative investments in Central New York’s rail infrastructure,” said James Bonner, President of NYS&W. “This project upgrades local rail infrastructure to enhance reliability and reduce highway congestion while preserving the region’s access to the national freight network. Together, we’re building a resilient, efficient future for our communities.” “The Cortland Area Chamber of Commerce, speaking on behalf of our business community, is very appreciative of Senator Schumer’s efforts to secure funding to complete the final phase of the New York Susquehanna and Western Railroad’s main line modernization between Cortland and Syracuse,” said Cortland Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bob Haight. “This modernization will more closely tie us to Onondaga County and its rapidly growing tech industry, including companies like Micron. It will also benefit the local employers who currently make use of the railroad, help attract new business and investment to our community, and preserve jobs while setting the stage for growth here in Cortland.” According to Schumer, this award will help NYSW complete the third and final phase of its rail line modernization project between the City of Cortland and City of Syracuse. Phase three of the project will upgrade over 8 miles of worn, jointed rail to new continuous welded rail, lay over 3,000 tons of ballast and surfacing, and install over 3,000 new ties on the NYSW Cortland to Syracuse main line. More specifically, NYSW will upgrade nearly 6 miles of rail in the Cortland County Towns of Homer and Preble, as well as 2.5 miles of rail in the Onondaga County Towns of Lafayette and Dewitt. The upgrades will enhance the corridor’s safety, capacity, operational efficiency, service life, reliability, and track speeds while strengthening regional transportation sustainability by shifting truck traffic to rail, reducing highway miles traveled, congestion, and emissions. In 2023, 10,749 loaded railcars traveled the entire 8.35 miles of the project, that is the equivalent nearly 37,000 tractor-trailers trips being kept off the highways according to NYSW. Schumer highlighted that NYSW’s modernization will stimulate economic development in Cortland County by increasing connectivity to Onondaga County and the Micron project, as well as interchanges with two Class I railways that provide access to other major CHIPS funded development projects across New York State’s semiconductor superhighway, including Wolfspeed in the Mohawk Valley, GlobalFoundries in the Capital Region, Edwards Vaccum in Western New York, and more. The Senator added that this modernization project will help NYSW preserve its current local workforce, add new construction jobs during the build, and attract customers to drive new business. The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, which Schumer crafted and led to passage in the Senate, included $5 billion over five years for the CRISI program. The program invests in various projects within the United States to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability; mitigate congestion at both intercity passenger and freight rail chokepoints to support more efficient travel and goods movement; enhance multi-modal connections; and lead to new or substantially improved Intercity Passenger Rail Transportation corridors. The NYSW operates over 400 miles of track in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania and is 286,000 pound gross weight capable on all lines. NYSW serves over 85 customers and transports a wide range of commodities such as feed ingredients, lumber, and other building materials, chemicals, and aggregates for customers in New York State. The Susquehanna Station was built in 1873 by architect Isaac G. Perry and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. The station once served as a major stop for railroad travel between Binghamton and Syracuse, serving as a vital part of Cortland’s economy, and helping to make the city a major regional hub. Today, the Susquehanna Station is owned by NYSW, which allows the City of Cortland to use the station as a community center at no cost. The community center is a popular spot for residents and visitors alike, hosting a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, plays and community meetings. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-biden-administrations-nomination-of-tali-farhadian-weinstein-to-united-states-district-court-for-the-southern-district-of-new-york/,Gillibrand Statement On Biden Administration’s Nomination Of Tali Farhadian Weinstein To United States District Court For The Southern District Of New York,2024-11-09,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement on Tali Farhadian Weinstein’s nomination to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York: “Tali Farhadian Weinstein is exceptionally well-qualified to serve on the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. From clerking for Justice Sandra Day O’Connor on the Supreme Court and Judge Merrick Garland on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit to serving as a federal prosecutor and counsel to the U.S. attorney general, Farhadian Weinstein has extensive legal experience, an impeccable record and a brilliant legal mind. I am proud that President Biden has nominated her for this judgeship at my recommendation and I look forward to voting for her confirmation in the Senate.” Tali Farhadian Weinstein has been Of Counsel in the New York office of Hecker Fink LLP since 2022. Earlier, she served as General Counsel of the Office of the District Attorney for Kings County, New York from 2018 to 2020. From 2011 to 2017, Ms. Farhadian Weinstein served as an Assistant United States Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York. She joined that office after serving as Counsel to the Attorney General at the U.S. Department of Justice from 2009 to 2010. She worked as an associate at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP in New York from 2006 to 2007. Ms. Farhadian Weinstein has been an Adjunct Professor of Law at New York University School of Law and Columbia Law School. She began her legal career as a law clerk for Judge Merrick B. Garland at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit from 2003 to 2004 and then for Justice Sandra Day O’Connor at the U.S. Supreme Court for two consecutive terms, from 2004 to 2006. Ms. Farhadian Weinstein received her J.D. from Yale Law School in 2003, her M.Phil from Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar in 1999, and her B.A. from Yale University in 1997. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:02:12Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-the-antisemitic-attack-in-amsterdam/,Gillibrand Statement On The Antisemitic Attack In Amsterdam,2024-11-08,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement on the antisemitic attack in Amsterdam: “The barbaric antisemitic attack in Amsterdam is utterly despicable and I condemn it in the strongest terms. As antisemitism rises across the globe, we all must denounce these horrific attacks and act to hold perpetrators of such violence accountable. The Dutch authorities must do more to protect the Jewish community, as should all of our partners and allies with sizable Jewish populations. I stand shoulder to shoulder with the Jewish people in this terrible moment and my support is ironclad.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:02:12Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-32-million-chips-award-for-corning-incs-canton-plant-creating-300-new-good-paying-jobs-sparking-major-315m-expansion-to-increase-production-of-specialized-glass-for-the-semiconductor-industry,"SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $32 MILLION CHIPS AWARD FOR CORNING INC.’S CANTON PLANT CREATING 300+ NEW, GOOD-PAYING JOBS; SPARKING MAJOR $315M EXPANSION TO INCREASE PRODUCTION OF SPECIALIZED GLASS FOR THE...",2024-11-08,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Corning Incorporated’s North Country Facility Is The Only One In The Country That Manufactures Specialized Glass Critical To The Chip Industry – Used In Some Of The Most Advanced Machinery In The World; New Award Will Expand Production And Supercharge The Workforce Adding Up To 130 Manufacturing Jobs And 175 Construction Jobs To Strengthen This Vital Supply Chain For America Schumer, Author & Champion Of The Bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law, Personally Visited The Canton Facility After He Passed The Bill Saying It Would Help Them Grow, And Called Commerce Secretary To Advocate For The Importance Of This Facility To The Nation’s Chip Supply Chain Schumer: My CHIPS Law Is Bringing JOBS And Manufacturing Back To The North Country – And Making Sure This Critical Technology Is Made In The USA After visiting Canton following the passage of his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law and promising it would supercharge the demand for Corning’s critical technology and deliver big for the North Country, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced Corning Incorporated has reached an up to $32 million preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) funding agreement with the U.S. Department of Commerce to increase production at their Canton facility of specialized glass vital for the semiconductor industry. Schumer said this expansion, which will help strengthen this vital supply chain for America’s national security, is expected to create up to 130 new, good-paying manufacturing jobs, including new union jobs, and over 175 union construction jobs. “I am proud to announce $32 million from my bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law will go to the always innovative and cutting-edge Corning Incorporated in Canton, NY to boost their highly specialized glass critical to the semiconductor supply chain. This award will create hundreds of new, good-paying jobs, supporting our local unions and growing manufacturing right here in the North Country. The glass needed for our semiconductor supply chain should be built in Canton, not China, and today’s investment helps further realize the goal of the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Law of bringing manufacturing back to America. Corning’s Canton plant has been a linchpin of the North Country’s economy, and when I visited two years ago I said my CHIPS & Science Law would help them grow even more, and today a promise made becomes a promise kept,” said Senator Schumer. “This will help usher in the next chapter of manufacturing here in the North Country. The specialized glass made right here in Canton is used in some of the most advanced machinery in the world – while making microchips we need for technology we use every day, from our phones to our computers and cars. Today Uncle Sam is giving its stamp of approval saying the North Country is ready to build America’s future, creating jobs, supercharging the economy and strengthening our national security.” Schumer explained today’s proposed CHIPS award will support Corning’s planned $315 million investment that will boost glass production in Canton. Corning is one of the largest industrial employers in the North Country, and the project is expected to create up to 130 good-paying union jobs in addition to 175 construction jobs. To carry out the expansion, Corning will work with local unions, including United Steelworkers Local 1026 who represent Corning’s glass-making workforce at the Canton facility and will represent applicable new workers. Specifically, Corning plans to increase the production of High Purity Fused Silica and Ultra Low Expansion Glass, which are key components of deep ultraviolet (DUV) and extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines and photomasks. DUV and EUV technology are important to semiconductor manufacturing, and this project will improve EUV performance with a lower carbon footprint. “We are grateful for Majority Leader Schumer’s vision and tireless efforts to strengthen the domestic semiconductor supply chain through the direct funding award and the Advanced Manufacturing Investment Credit created by the CHIPS and Science Act. This strategic investment will help our Canton, New York facility continue to expand production of advanced optics components and create up to 130 good paying jobs that are critical to making the world’s most complex microchips,” said Corning Incorporated Chairman and CEO Wendell Weeks. Schumer recently announced that following years of advocacy, Albany NanoTech would be home to the country’s first National Semiconductor Technology Center facility as the headquarters focusing on EUV research. By increasing production at Corning’s North Country plant, more American-made glass critical to the technology required by new chip fabs such as Micron, GlobalFoundries, and Wolfspeed in New York will be made available, strengthening U.S. supply chains and offering microchip producers shorter wait times and improved responsiveness from an American-made product. Schumer said this will help boost Corning Incorporated’s manufacturing efforts at its plants across Upstate NY. To support both the company’s workforce and the broader community’s childcare infrastructure, Corning also plans to invest $300,000 per year for the duration of the proposed project to support the St. Lawrence County Childcare Training Program, which would help build and stabilize the child care workforce and increase child care supply for the community, making it easier for employees to find and obtain care and helping the company access the additional workers needed to make this expansion a success. Schumer visited Corning in 2022 to explain how his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law will help keep the U.S. on the cutting-edge of innovation, train a new generation of tech and manufacturing workers, lower costs for families, address inflation, strengthen national security, and specifically boost facilities like Canton’s. Corning is one of the largest employers in New York, with over 7,000 employees across the state, including over 300 in St. Lawrence County. Schumer explained that anticipation of federal investment in his CHIPS & Science Law and the tremendous impact it will have on the manufacturing and tech industries have already spurred growth for Corning Incorporated. Schumer added, “This is good news for Upstate NY’s entire semiconductor ecosystem and all of Corning’s plants across Upstate NY. From Micron, GlobalFoundries, and Wolfspeed to the cutting-edge machinery at Albany NanoTech, the entire semiconductor industry in New York and across America needs the kind of specialized glass they make here in Canton. This continued investment is proof positive that Upstate NY is becoming America’s emerging semiconductor superhighway to power the country’s global leadership in technology and manufacturing, all thanks to the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law.” “For more than a century, Corning has led the way in pioneering innovation and manufacturing right here in the Empire State,” Senator Gillibrand said. “Today, we open a new chapter in that history with this federal investment in manufacturing jobs and economic development in the North Country. Thanks to the CHIPS Act, we are expanding New York’s leadership in the semiconductor ecosystem north of the I-90 corridor. I am proud to have fought to pass the CHIPS Act, and I will continue fighting to deliver these federal resources for New York.” ""Corning has been an integral part of the fabric of New York State manufacturing for more than 170 years and is a leading producer of advanced glass used for semiconductor chips,"" Governor Hochul said. ""I want to thank the Biden-Harris administration for their ongoing support and determination to rebuilding American manufacturing and creating good jobs, especially in Upstate New York. Today's announcement complements our continued commitment to fostering the growth of innovative businesses that will move our communities forward and further cement New York as a national leader in semiconductor manufacturing."" In 2022, Schumer helped announce a $139M, 270 job expansion in Monroe County by Corning Incorporated to support optic technology, which is critical in the microchip manufacturing industry. Schumer said that with further expansion of domestic semiconductor production, more and more companies will be relying on Corning Incorporated for their expertise in innovation, glass, and specialty tech to support their growth. Corning’s Canton location leverages its expertise in glass science to make some of the world’s purest glass. The plant has become a world leader in production of specialized glasses ideal for advanced microchip production and is the only location in the country making this critical product. This is the fifth agreement for a New York company from the CHIPS Incentives Program funded by Schumer’s bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law. Earlier this year, Schumer announced that Micron, which plans to invest $100 billion over the next two decades – the largest private investment in New York’s history – that is expected to create an estimated 50,000 jobs, reached a $6.1 billion CHIPS PMT funding agreement. In addition, GlobalFoundries in the Capital Region also reached an agreement for $1.5 billion in direct grant funding under his CHIPS & Science Law to support a $12.5 billion public-private investment over the next ten-plus years to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in Malta, NY. Schumer also announced that Edwards Vacuum, which plans to build a new first-of-its-kind-in-the-country $300+ million, 600-job dry pump manufacturing facility, reached an $18 million CHIPS PMT funding agreement. Additionally, Schumer announced that Wolfspeed reached a $750 million CHIPS PMT funding agreement and plans to tap nearly $1 billion from the CHIPS Investment Tax Credit that Schumer helped create in the CHIPS and Science Law to complete the expansion of their Silicon Carbide Fabrication Facility at Marcy Nanocenter in Oneida County. Thanks to Schumer’s bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. In addition to the investments listed above, TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand its facilities in Onondaga County, supported by federal investment to strengthen domestic supply chains, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build their microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. Earlier this year, Schumer secured a major $40 million in federal funding for the federally-designated “NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub,” one of only 12 awardees nationally, to further position Upstate NY as a semiconductor center for the world. Earlier this month Schumer secured a major $825 million federal investment to make Albany NanoTech the first National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) hub. The PMT outlines key terms for Corning Incorporated’s CHIPS agreement. To finalize the federal CHIPS agreement, the Commerce Department will now begin a comprehensive due diligence process on the proposed project and other information contained in the application. After satisfactory completion of the due diligence phase, the Commerce Department will finalize the PMT. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/schumer-gillibrand-announce-360-million-in-home-energy-assistance-for-new-york-families-to-lower-heating-costs-this-winter/,"Schumer, Gillibrand Announce $360 Million In Home Energy Assistance For New York Families To Lower Heating Costs This Winter",2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced that New York will receive $360,185,996 in federal funding through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This money will help thousands of low-income households across the state afford their energy bills and make cost-effective repairs to their heating systems this winter. “Everyone in New York should be able to come home to warmth in the winter. I’m proud to deliver $360+ million in Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program funding to make sure seniors and families can afford their energy bills and repair their heating systems,” said Senator Schumer. “We all know Upstate winters can be harsh, and in the last year alone, thousands of Upstate households tapped this critical federal program. I’ve pushed to boost federal funding for LIHEAP because I know how important it is to New York’s families and will keep fighting to ensure that New Yorkers have the resources they need to be safe and warm.” “LIHEAP provides much-needed support to New York families for their home energy costs, and I’m proud to have helped secure this $360 million in LIHEAP funding for our state as we head into another winter heating season,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Staying warm and protected from the elements is a basic human right, and I’m committed to ensuring that all New Yorkers have the resources they need to pay their energy bills and stay warm, safe, and healthy through the winter.” Maintaining safe indoor air temperatures is critical, particularly for households that include older adults, individuals with disabilities, and young children. By helping to reduce the costs of home heating and cooling bills, reconnecting energy services that have been disconnected, preventing energy shutoffs, and financing minor energy-related home repairs, LIHEAP helps make sure that all Americans can meet their home energy needs and stay safe in their homes.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-360-million-in-home-energy-assistance-for-new-york-families-to-lower-heating-costs-this-winter,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE $360 MILLION IN HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE FOR NEW YORK FAMILIES TO LOWER HEATING COSTS THIS WINTER",2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced that New York will receive $360,185,996 in federal funding through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This money will help thousands of low-income households across the state afford their energy bills and make cost-effective repairs to their heating systems this winter. “Everyone in New York should be able to come home to warmth in the winter. I’m proud to deliver $360+ million in Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program funding to make sure seniors and families can afford their energy bills and repair their heating systems,” said Senator Schumer. “We all know Upstate winters can be harsh, and in the last year alone, thousands of Upstate households tapped this critical federal program. I’ve pushed to boost federal funding for LIHEAP because I know how important it is to New York’s families and will keep fighting to ensure that New Yorkers have the resources they need to be safe and warm.” “LIHEAP provides much-needed support to New York families for their home energy costs, and I’m proud to have helped secure this $360 million in LIHEAP funding for our state as we head into another winter heating season,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Staying warm and protected from the elements is a basic human right, and I’m committed to ensuring that all New Yorkers have the resources they need to pay their energy bills and stay warm, safe, and healthy through the winter.” Maintaining safe indoor air temperatures is critical, particularly for households that include older adults, individuals with disabilities, and young children. By helping to reduce the costs of home heating and cooling bills, reconnecting energy services that have been disconnected, preventing energy shutoffs, and financing minor energy-related home repairs, LIHEAP helps make sure that all Americans can meet their home energy needs and stay safe in their homes. Individuals interested in applying for LIHEAP can visit energyhelp.us or?call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) hotline toll-free at 1-866-674-6327. New Yorkers can also check whether their household qualifies for assistance using the LIHEAP Eligibility Tool. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-this-is-it-after-years-of-advocacy-albany-nanotech-selected-as-americas-first-national-semiconductor-technology-center_-created-by-his-chips-and-science-law,"SCHUMER: THIS IS IT! AFTER YEARS OF ADVOCACY, ALBANY NANOTECH SELECTED AS AMERICA’S FIRST NATIONAL SEMICONDUCTOR TECHNOLOGY CENTER - CREATED BY HIS CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW",2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Lands A Whopping $825 Million Initial Federal Investment And Establishes Albany NanoTech As Fed Headquarters For Semiconductor Research; A Once In A Generation Recognition Making The Capital Region A Chip R&D Center For The Entire World Schumer Created NSTC Program — With Albany As His North Star — And Worked Relentlessly To Secure This Prestigious Investment, Bringing Good-Paying Jobs, New Companies, And Innovation With Most Advanced Machinery In World To Upstate NY Schumer: A Historic Moment. Uncle Sam Just Picked Upstate NY & The Capital Region As THE Place To Develop The Future Of America’s Chip Industry After years of relentless advocacy, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced Albany NanoTech has been selected as America’s first location for the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) supported by an up to $825 million federal investment from Schumer’s bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law. The NSTC is a critical part of Schumer’s and the Biden-Harris Administration’s mission of re-establishing America’s leadership in the semiconductor industry and will bring together industry leaders, researchers from the nation’s top universities, innovators, and entrepreneurs to help give them access to the most advanced chip making machinery in the world and drive the next frontier of innovation. “This is the dawn of a new day for Upstate NY and a turning point in U.S. leadership in semiconductor research. I am proud to announce America’s first major National Semiconductor Technology Center facility will be right here in Albany. This will help ensure advancements in semiconductors that will shape the next century are stamped ‘Made in America’ and not developed and made in places like China,” said Senator Schumer. “Today, Uncle Sam is saying that Albany NanoTech is THE place for developing the next frontier of America’s technological future. I wrote the NSTC in my CHIPS & Science Law with Albany NanoTech as my inspiration, and now that dream is becoming a reality. Today we help usher in America’s next era of chip research and manufacturing, with Upstate NY leading the way.” The Department of Commerce and Natcast, the operator of the NSTC, will invest an initial up to $825 million to further build out equipment at Albany NanoTech, to conduct cutting-edge extreme ultraviolet (EUV) research and development (R&D), and to establish an NSTC presence with offices and support services in Albany. Today’s announcement not only makes Albany NanoTech the CHIPS for America R&D flagship facility but also the headquarters for national EUV research as the country’s NSTC EUV Accelerator. EUV technology is essential to the semiconductor industry and some of the most advanced machinery in the world, in which light is used to print patterns and make chips on wafers. EUV lithography is what has allowed the breakthroughs to make this technology nanoscopic and allows for the chips that power everything from smartphones, computers, and vehicles to artificial intelligence. Albany NanoTech will soon be one of the only two public facilities in the world with the most advanced EUV technology, a High NA Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography tool, and will be the only publicly-owned High NA EUV Center in North America. Schumer continued, “The NSTC is a historic and new effort by the federal government to fuel the quest to make breakthroughs in chips that engineers today cannot even fathom, just as Albany NanoTech had produced before, including most recently with the development of the world’s first 2 nanometer chip. This $825 million initial federal investment will further equip Albany NanoTech and fund EUV research projects that are central to the global chip industry, ensuring the U.S. leads the world in semiconductor innovation and manufacturing, with the Capital Region and Upstate NY central to that effort.” Schumer explained that the state-of-the-art new EUV facility at Albany NanoTech and today’s designation and federal investment will help the United States establish dominance in advanced semiconductor research and development. The NSTC EUV Accelerator will help address gaps in American knowledge about semiconductors and provide information to stakeholders including universities, small businesses and entrepreneurs, large manufacturers, and government agencies by providing NSTC members with access to EUV technology to facilitate research and commercialization. The NSTC EUV Accelerator at Albany NanoTech will be a place for leaders in the semiconductor industry to conduct research and collaborate, including bringing industry leaders like Micron, IBM, GlobalFoundries, Applied Materials, Tokyo Electron, ASML, and more to the table to partner on next-generation R&D. Being designated the EUV accelerator will also open up opportunities for Albany NanoTech and Upstate NY to attract further federal investment and help attract more companies from around the world to Albany to conduct research, all with the potential of creating more good-paying jobs and making Upstate NY a global leader in semiconductors. The U.S. Department of Commerce and Natcast intend for the NSTC EUV Center at Albany NanoTech to be operational by 2025. Schumer added, “Having the federal headquarters for EUV research that is critical to the most advanced chip development in the world will benefit every corner of NY. It will supercharge the historic investments and thousands of new, good-paying jobs the chip industry has proposed across the state, spurred by my CHIPS & Science Law. The NSTC will help complete my vision of Upstate NY’s I-90 corridor becoming America’s Semiconductor Superhighway. From our Tech Hub in Western NY and Rochester to Micron’s massive $100+ billion planned investment near Syracuse and Wolfspeed’s investment in the Mohawk Valley, to now the National Semiconductor Technology Center here in Albany.” The NSTC, first authorized by Schumer in 2020 and then funded by the CHIPS & Science Law, which Schumer crafted and led to passage, will bridge the gap between research and industry to bolster semiconductor research and development for the U.S. and its allies. Today, practically none of the most advanced chips – which are critical to national security and growing industries like artificial intelligence – are manufactured in the United States. The research conducted through the NSTC will help ensure the U.S. remains on the cutting-edge globally in chip R&D and bring this manufacturing back to the United States, boosting local economies by creating good-paying jobs and strengthening the country’s national security. The EUV Center at Albany NanoTech is the first of three planned major NSTC facilities. The U.S. Department of Commerce has not yet made announcements about the NSTC’s Administrative and Design Facility and Prototyping and NAPMP Advanced Packaging Piloting Facility. Together, these three major hubs will lead the NSTC’s core functions and help fulfill the CHIPS & Science Law’s vision of developing more American-made technology and boosting America as a global semiconductor leader. The new NSTC EUV Center at Albany NanoTech will also open the doors to millions of dollars in additional awards and research opportunities with the federal government, as well as help bring in additional industry partners to leverage the state-of-the-art facilities to develop and manufacture advanced chips. Schumer said, “In the past two years, the federal government has made unprecedented investments in Upstate NY because of my CHIPS & Science Law. They listened when I said this community is the most qualified in the nation to bring this industry back from overseas, the most ready to build America’s future, and the NSTC is the crown jewel that will complete this vision as the centerpiece of research in the most cutting-edge chip development.” “From day one of my administration, I pledged that New York State would lead the charge to bring back advanced manufacturing and R&D to the U.S., creating good jobs and opportunity in the process,” Governor Hochul said. “Thanks to the winning combination of federal CHIPS funding and New York’s determination and ingenuity, the Albany NanoTech Complex will be home to the CHIPS for America EUV Accelerator, an NSTC Facility, and fuel America's advanced manufacturing renaissance. I thank the Biden-Harris Administration, the Department of Commerce, Natcast, and our federal delegation for their partnership as we continue to work together to advance U.S. semiconductor leadership, safeguard our national security and create a brighter future for all.” ""Building up America's domestic semiconductor industry is critical to create good-paying jobs, protect our supply chains, and strengthen our national security, and I'm proud to see New York leading this effort,"" said Senator Gillibrand. ""Upstate New York is already a hub for cutting-edge semiconductor manufacturing, research, and development, and the designation of NY CREATES’ Albany NanoTech Complex as the location of the CHIPS for America EUV Accelerator will help us maintain our status as a global leader in such a vital industry. I fought hard to pass the CHIPS and Science Act, and I'm proud to see this historic legislation bring scientific innovation and economic development to the Capital Region."" “Today is a monumental moment for our region, for job creation, for cutting-edge research, and for our 21st century precision economy,” Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20) said. “In the years since Congress passed the CHIPS and Science Act, I have been relentlessly advocating alongside the many stakeholders who call NY CREATES home to leverage the shovel-ready infrastructure and advanced R&D capabilities right here at the Albany NanoTech Complex. Our region has long been poised to take the reins to steer America’s semiconductor revitalization and, thanks to the pioneering work and sound investment of New York leadership, local chip manufacturers, researchers, educational institutions, and other stakeholders, that reality is upon us. I’m thrilled to celebrate this groundbreaking announcement and remain as determined as ever to secure strong federal action that delivers for American workers, consumers, and communities.” NY CREATES' President Dave Anderson said, “With a legacy spanning more than 20 years of technological achievements, NY CREATES and our industry partners have been central to establishing and growing New York’s — and the nation’s — semiconductor R&D ecosystem. This is an historic moment for New York and the semiconductor industry, and we look forward to working closely with Natcast to leverage our resources, capabilities, and know-how to bring this innovative vision to fruition. We are thrilled that the NSTC at NY CREATES will become an even greater beacon of opportunity and collaboration for our partners as we transform today’s ideas into tomorrow’s technologies. Together, we can shape the future and in doing so, bolster America’s economic and national security while cementing our position as a global leader. We are grateful to Governor Hochul, whose unwavering commitment to the industry has positioned NY CREATES to host the NSTC EUV Center, and to Majority Leader Schumer, who not only helped author and lead to passage the CHIPS & Science Act but also made the case for Albany NanoTech’s leadership of the NSTC, all of which makes today’s investment possible.” ""Nearly 20 years ago, ASML shipped one of the world’s first EUV lithography demo tools to Albany, NY. The important role that New York has played in the industrialization of this critical technology is reflected in today's announcement that the NSTC EUV Accelerator will be based at the Albany NanoTech Complex. The first chips made using High NA, ASML's most advanced EUV tool, will power the technology of the future: robotics, artificial intelligence, the internet of things, and beyond. As we work with partners across the industry to push technology to new limits, we applaud Senator Schumer and Governor Hochul's clear commitment to semiconductor innovation in the U.S.,"" said Christophe Fouquet, President and CEO of ASML. ""GF applauds the decision to base the NSTC EUV Accelerator in Albany, NY. Building on years of R&D, semiconductor leadership and ecosystem partnerships, this center will stimulate innovation and work to develop the talent our industry needs to continue to grow and succeed. Congratulations to NYCREATES and thank you to Senator Schumer and Governor Hochul for their enduring leadership and commitment to strengthening both the U.S. and NY semiconductor industry,” said Dr. Thomas Caulfield, president and CEO of GlobalFoundries. “We are thrilled that New York State has been selected as the home of our nation’s first NSTC EUV Center. For over 20 years, IBM and our public-private partners at NY CREATES’s Albany NanoTech Complex have produced many of the technical breakthroughs that have propelled the semiconductor industry forward. Thanks to Sec. Raimondo, Gov. Hochul, Sen. Schumer, and many others, the new Center in Albany will support the United States' mission to lead global chip innovation,” said Arvind Krishna, Chairman and CEO of IBM. “The compelling factors for Micron in choosing New York as home to our megafab are the rich ecosystem in support of research and development, synergistic university partnerships, an exceptional talent pipeline, and strong public support, which fosters an environment to grow semiconductor R&D in the U.S. Micron is pleased to see that the U.S. Department of Commerce has awarded the NY CREATES Albany NanoTech Center the designation of being named the NSTC’s EUV Accelerator. Thanks to the leadership of Majority Leader Schumer and Governor Hochul, we will be able to scale our memory technology leadership and advance next-generation semiconductor R&D,” said Scott DeBoer, Micron’s Executive Vice President, Chief Technology and Products Officer. “The announcement of the National Semiconductor Technology Center here in New York State is a monumental step forward, not only for Wolfspeed but for the entire U.S. semiconductor industry. This Center will become a cornerstone of innovation, helping drive the research, development, and workforce training critical to meeting the world’s surging demand for advanced semiconductor technology. Thanks to Senator Schumer’s visionary leadership, New York State is now positioned at the forefront of this vital industry, advancing our nation’s technological independence and reinforcing its global leadership,” said Gregg Lowe, CEO of Wolfspeed. THIS HAS BEEN A YEARS-LONG EFFORT BY SCHUMER TO LAND THE NSTC IN THE CAPITAL REGION Schumer has worked for years to highlight Albany NanoTech and the Capital Region’s ability to lead the country’s semiconductor research and development efforts. In December 2020, after Schumer worked with key stakeholders across the semiconductor industry, including key partners at Albany NanoTech like IBM to develop the federal CHIPS programs, including the NSTC, he successfully authorized these programs in law as part of the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act. In addition to directly highlighting Albany NanoTech to President Biden, Schumer has brought top government officials to the Capital Region to promote Albany NanoTech as a major hub for the NSTC. In July 2021 prior to the passage of the CHIPS & Science Law, Schumer brought Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo to Albany to show that Albany is a global leader in semiconductor research and development. Schumer brought Commerce Deputy Secretary Don Graves to tour Albany NanoTech’s facility in January 2022 and National Economic Council Director Lael Brainard toured the facility in February 2024 after Schumer’s invitation. In 2023, Schumer additionally brought Albany Nanotech head David Anderson as his personal guest to President Biden’s 2023 State of the Union to highlight the facility and leadership. Schumer has also promoted Albany NanoTech while meeting with both semiconductor industry and international leaders. Schumer highlighted Albany NanoTech when pitching Micron to locate their massive $100+ billion megafab project in Upstate NY, which Micron said was a critical factor in their selection of Central NY. Schumer also secured a commitment for South Korea to partner with Albany Nanotech on research, pushed for increased collaboration on semiconductor R&D between Japan and the United States, pitched Albany NanoTech to major Japanese chip suppliers for further investment, and met with the leadership of Belgium’s imec on multiple occasions to discuss ways Albany NanoTech and imec can collaborate as the two global leading semiconductor public-private research institutions. Schumer said these international partnerships underscore the ability of Albany NanoTech’s unique and world-renowned assets to help forge deeper ties with allies and partners in building more resilient chip supply chains and encouraging R&D collaboration, a key national security priority of the CHIPS programs, including the NSTC. Late last year, Schumer and Governor Hochul announced a new $10 billion public-private investment at Albany Nanotech which will help install a High NA EUV lithography machine, the most advanced semiconductor equipment ever made, designed, and manufactured by ASML, at its Albany NanoTech Complex. Schumer said this helps uniquely prepare them to quickly lead the NSTC as one of only two public research institutions in the world home to the new advanced EUV tool. In September 2023, Schumer announced NY CREATES, which leads Albany NanoTech, as one of the first to tap CHIPS funding with a $40 million award through the CHIPS DoD Microelectronics Commons Program to establish a new consortium, known as the Northeast Regional Defense Technology Hub. In September 2024, the consortium received an additional $30 million. Schumer also recently helped secure $4.7 million from the National Science Foundation for NY CREATES to provide workforce training associated with Albany NanoTech. These funds, made possible by a program boosted in the CHIPS & Science Law, will support the establishment of the Education Alliance for Semiconductor Experiential Learning (EASEL) program to help address the growing national demand for a skilled workforce in the semiconductor industry. ACROSS NEW YORK THE CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW HAS DELIVERED HISTORIC INVESTMENT & IS CREATING THOUSANDS OF GOOD-PAYING JOBS Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. Micron has announced plans for a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory megafab in Central New York with the support of an over $6 billion preliminary CHIPS agreement. GlobalFoundries plans to invest over $12 billion to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in the Capital Region, with support from a $1.5 billion preliminary CHIPS agreement. Wolfspeed has opened a 200mm silicon carbide fabrication facility in the Mohawk Valley, one of the largest in the world, with a $750 million preliminary CHIPS agreement accelerating their ongoing expansion in the Mohawk Valley and boosting good-paying jobs expected to be created at the Marcy facility. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand its facilities in Onondaga County, supported by federal investment to strengthen domestic supply chains, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build their microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. In addition, Upstate New York is home to semiconductor supply chain companies like Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants, and following Schumer’s advocacy, Edwards Vacuum has announced a $300+ million investment to build a dry pump manufacturing facility, made possible by a $18 million preliminary CHIPS agreement, creating 600 good-paying jobs to support the growing chip industry in Western New York. Earlier this year, Schumer also secured a major $40 million in federal funding for the federally-designated “NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub”, one of only 12 awardees nationally, to further position Upstate NY as a semiconductor center for the world. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-schumer-announce-port-authority-of-ny-nj-to-receive-over-347-million-from-program-gillibrand-helped-create-including-344-million-to-deploy-zero-emission-equipment-and-upgrade-green-ener/,"Gillibrand, Schumer Announce Port Authority Of NY/NJ To Receive Over $347 Million From Program Gillibrand Helped Create, Including $344 Million To Deploy Zero-Emission Equipment And Upgrade Green Energy Infrastructure",2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has selected the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) to receive an anticipated $344,138,135 through EPA’s Clean Ports Program for its proposed project, Catalyzing Change: Zero-Emissions NY-NJ Port Projects for a Greener Future. This project will support the installation of zero-emission equipment and promote good-paying and union jobs at the Port of New York and New Jersey. The grant is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, the most substantial climate change and clean energy legislation in history. Senator Gillibrand was an original cosponsor and champion of the standalone legislation (the Climate Smart Ports Act) to create the Clean Ports Program, and she helped secure its enactment as part of the Inflation Reduction Act. According to the EPA, PANYNJ’s proposed project “includes the deployment of electric cargo handling equipment and drayage trucks with supporting charging infrastructure, including through a ZE Equipment for Ports (ZEEP) Voucher Incentive Program and Green Drayage Accelerator (GDA) program. PANYNJ commits to reducing the number of polluting vehicles at the port by scrapping a portion of the existing fleet. The project also includes the installation of vessel shore power infrastructure. As part of this project, PANYNJ will implement a comprehensive community engagement plan and train workers to operate and maintain new equipment and infrastructure.” In addition to the over $344 million grant for the zero-emission technology deployment project, EPA selected PANYNJ to receive $3,000,000 to support a proposed climate and air quality project, which is also through EPA’s Clean Ports Program. “I fought hard to secure $3 billion via the Inflation Reduction Act for the EPA to fund a new program for zero-emission port equipment and to modernize infrastructure as well as climate and air quality planning at ports across the country,” said Senator Schumer. “I’m proud to announce more than $344 million—the second largest award in the country—for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to deploy zero-emission equipment, install charging equipment, and train workers for new green jobs. This substantial federal investment will help transform Port Liberty NY on Staten Island by replacing harmful diesel-powered equipment with zero-emission electric infrastructure.” “This over $347 million investment in the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey will lay the foundation for a stronger, more sustainable future,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This funding will promote the use of zero-emission equipment and clean power, as well as train workers for the green energy jobs of the future. I am proud to have helped secure the creation of the transformative Clean Ports Program in the Inflation Reduction Act and am thrilled about today’s historic investment. Not only are we improving air quality and combating climate change, but we’re creating good-paying jobs and putting New York and the United States in position to lead in global clean energy.” The selection of the PANYNJ projects was announced as part of the Biden-Harris administration’s Investing in America agenda, which today announced nearly $3 billion of investments in Clean Ports. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/schumer-gillibrand-secure-nearly-12-million-to-replace-bridge-street-bridge-over-schoharie-creek/,"Schumer, Gillibrand Secure Nearly $12 Million To Replace Bridge Street Bridge Over Schoharie Creek",2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Senators Say Fed $$ Will Support Critical Replacement Of 100-Year-Old Bridge Via Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Competitive “Bridge Investment Program” Schumer, Gillibrand: The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law Is Helping Bridge The Gap To Build Long Overdue Projects The Capital Region! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $11,600,000 for Schoharie County to replace the Bridge Street bridge over Schoharie Creek as a recipient of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) highly competitive Bridge Investment Program. The federal funding, created in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law championed by the senators, will help replace the aging bridge, which is a vital connector in Schoharie County. “The Bridge Street bridge is a vital connector in Schoharie County, but after 100 years of use, it is nearing the end of its useful life. This $11.6 million will boost efforts to replace the bridge and restore this vital connector for Schoharie County,” said Senator Schumer. “The next closest bridge over Schoharie Creek is more than 20 minutes away. When considering emergency vehicles, that 20 minutes is vital. New York State has already put a weight restriction on the bridge due to its condition, and it’s vital that we build a replacement bridge as soon as possible to keep people safe and to maximize ease of transport and economic efficiency. I fought to create the Bridge Investment Program in our Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law because I know how important boosting federal investment in bridges is to protecting travelers’ safety while creating good-paying jobs. I’m proud that the law is continuing to deliver for the Capital Region.” “Infrastructure like the Bridge Street bridge helps local economies thrive, plays a vital role in protecting public safety, and connects communities,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Bridge Street serves as a crucial overpass for emergency vehicles, farm vehicles, and citizens of Schoharie County, and its replacement is long overdue. I’m proud to have fought for the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and helped secure this funding for the Capital Region. I will continue working to deliver federal dollars to New York for the improvement of our infrastructure.” “We are deeply grateful to Senator Schumer, Senator Gillibrand, Lieutenant Governor Delgado, Congresswoman Stefanik and all the bipartisan supporters for securing the $11.6 million needed for Schoharie’s new Bridge Street Bridge. This bridge is essential for our town—it boosts the safety and efficiency of our roads, ensures emergency responders can act quickly, supports our farmers who rely on it, and links our community hubs. This investment is a big win for everyone in Schoharie County, showing a strong commitment to enhancing our critical infrastructure,” said Benjamin Oevering, Supervisor, Town of Schoharie. The Bridge Street bridge is a vital connector in Schoharie County, but after 100 years of use, it is nearing the end of its useful life. The federal funding secured by the senators will help the county build a new bridge, increasing safety and creating jobs. New York State has put a weight restriction on the bridge due to its condition, and the County is concerned that further disrepair could eventually limit its use by emergency vehicles. The nearest bridge is approximately 10 miles away, adding 20-25 minutes in commute time. The senators also said that farm vehicles use the bridge regularly, and the bridge is vital to the County’s thriving rural agriculture economy. The senators explained that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act included $12.5 billion appropriated annually over five years (FY 22-26) to help plan, replace, rehabilitate, protect, and preserve some of the nation’s largest bridges, ensuring that they remain operational, support local economies, strengthen supply chains, and improve safety. The Capital Region was one of the first in the nation to tap into this federal funding when Schumer and Gillibrand secured $21 million to repair and modernize the Castleton-on-Hudson Bridge in April 2023. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-five-new-york-teams-advance-to-next-round-of-national-science-foundation-innovation-engines-program_created-by-schumers-chips-and-science-law--to-compete-for-up-to-160-million-federal-investment,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES FIVE NEW YORK TEAMS ADVANCE TO NEXT ROUND OF NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION “INNOVATION ENGINES” PROGRAM – CREATED BY SCHUMER’S CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW – TO COMPETE FOR UP TO $160 MILLION...,2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Last Year, Schumer-Supported And Binghamton University-Led Battery Research Hub Won Inaugural NSF Engines Competition, And This Year Even More From NY Are Competing For Funding As The Contest Launches For Second Year Schumer Says 5 NY-Based Projects Were Selected – The Most Of Any State - Ranging From University At Buffalo AI Research To Rochester’s Laser Lab To Cornell’s New Technology For Upstate Dairy Farmers And More; All To Spur New Innovations And Good-Paying Jobs Schumer: NY Is Leading The Charge To Boost American Innovation And Economic Leadership! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced that five New York teams have advanced to the next round of consideration for federal investment through the National Science Foundation’s Regional “Innovation Engines” Competition (NSF Engines), which was created by his CHIPS & Science Law. The five teams include projects ranging from the University of Rochester’s effort to develop cutting-edge laser technology, to the University at Buffalo-led AI for Health Equity, to Cornell University leading sustainable dairy innovation, to FuzeHub strengthening Upstate NY’s microelectronics manufacturing, to CUNY bolstering the tristate region’s biotechnology sector. Schumer said these five projects in NY, along with a total of 71 teams across the country, will now submit full proposals to compete for up to $160 million in federal investment from the CHIPS & Science Law. You can read more about this year’s competition here. “I created the NSF Regional Innovation Engines program in my CHIPS & Science Law with New York’s world-renowned universities and innovation ecosystem in mind. I’m thrilled to see five NY-based teams reach the next round in the competition for major federal investment to boost American innovation, new jobs, and economic leadership,” said Senator Schumer. “From Buffalo pioneering the next generation of AI to Cornell discovering new technology to help our Upstate dairy farmers to Rochester powering the future of laser development, these projects show how NY can lead our nation in developing the technology and jobs of the future. The NSF is saying what I have long known: keeping America at the cutting edge of innovation across industries begins in New York. This major federal funding can help translate more research and development at New York’s universities into new businesses and new, good-paying jobs across the state, boosting New York to further lead the charge in powering America’s economic preeminence.” More details on the five New York-based proposals can be found below: The University of Rochester’s proposal, officially named “STELLAR: Advancing Laser Technologies in the Rochester NY/Finger Lakes Region,” is focused on establishing a diverse coalition of partners in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region to accelerate laser discovery, technological advancement, education, and company creation, drive manufacturing and boost workforce development in order to help recapture U.S. national competitiveness and strengthen our security. The STELLAR Engine will foster laser-oriented workforce development, particularly in underserved communities in Rochester and rural communities in the Finger Lakes, accelerate use-inspired R&D, entrepreneurship, and regional business development that will create jobs, build a laser science and technology talent pipeline, bolster the supply chain, and grow and sustain the region’s economy. The University at Buffalo’s proposal, officially named “AI for Health Equity,” will work to utilize artificial intelligence to develop cutting-edge health care solutions, further highlighting Western New York’s leadership in building an AI innovation ecosystem, something Schumer has actively pushed for. The project aims to boost new start-up companies and help partners commercialize AI technology centered on health and wellness. This new technology will aid health care providers and serve as personal assistance to community members. Eventually, the project will expand so that its technology can serve communities beyond Western NY and across the country. Cornell University’s proposal, officially named “Sustainable Utilization of Scalable Technologies & Advanced Innovation for NetZero NY (SUSTAIN Dairy),” aims to reduce waste, create new dairy products, and develop new rural and workforce development opportunities. It is one of five projects in this round that is focused on agriculture and the only project focused on dairy. This proposal aims to develop a holistic, science-based framework for achieving net zero by 2050 from farm to fork through an advanced dairy innovation ecosystem. With dairy manufacturing and family farms scattered throughout rural New York, achieving place-based innovation that builds community wealth is vital for the future success of Upstate New York. CUNY-ARC’s proposal, officially named “Tech-Enabled, Bioinspired & Biomanufacturing Ecosystem (Tri-State Tech-Biome),” aims to address critical regional challenges by creating an ecosystem that accelerates the innovation and commercialization of bio-inspired technologies and materials derived from renewable feedstocks. This work is being done in coordination with industry players and leading research universities in the region. FuzeHub’s proposal, officially named “A Materials Innovation Engine for Manufacturing Sustainability,” will work to mitigate the negative impacts on the environment from manufacturing industries by replacing toxic or scarce components with advanced materials. FuzeHub competed last year for this award as well and was asked to resubmit. “I proudly supported the CHIPS and Science Act to pave the way for critical investments like the National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovative Engines program,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “With the University of Rochester’s STELLAR engine advancing to the next phase, we celebrate Rochester’s legacy in optics and photonics and our designation as a Regional Tech Hub. This milestone honors our community’s pioneering spirit, and I look forward to working with the NSF to elevate Rochester’s role in shaping the future of technology.” “I am very pleased that our Science, Technology, and Engineering for Laser and Laser Applications Research (STELLAR) proposal will be advancing to the next stage and can continue to compete for transformative funding focused on creating and growing a diverse, workforce-focused laser ecosystem in Rochester and Upstate New York,” said Thomas Brown, the Director of the University’s Institute of Optics. “Our proposal is the only one to address declining U.S. leadership in laser manufacturing, since lasers are a fundamental enabling technology underpinning the entire internet, chip manufacturing, and a host of other technologies. I particularly thank Senator Schumer for his vision in establishing the regional innovation engines program at the National Science Foundation through his landmark CHIPS and Science Act, our many academic, industry and community partners, and the NSF for their consideration of support.” “The NSF Regional Innovation Engines program, created through the CHIPS and Science Act, is strengthening our nation’s manufacturing sector and boosting our global competitiveness,” said Congressman Kennedy. “At the forefront of this progress are five New York based teams that have made it to the next round of the process to receive game-changing federal funding to build on the progress Western New York has made to become a national-leader in the tech space. These teams are making our state and region a leader in innovative manufacturing while creating good-paying union jobs.” “As the home of Empire AI, UB is dedicated to leveraging our game-changing artificial intelligence research to alleviate health disparities in underserved populations throughout our region,” said UB President Satish K. Tripathi. “With an NSF Engines award, UB will be able to harness our AI- informed health innovations to improve the health and well-being of individuals and families across Western New York, ultimately growing participation in our region’s economy. On behalf of all of us at the University at Buffalo, I would like to thank Majority Leader Schumer for his steadfast support of UB. In championing federal research funding for institutions of higher education, Senator Schumer is helping UB fuel impactful innovations, contribute measurably to economic development and enhance health outcomes across the lifespan.” Last year, Schumer helped the Binghamton University-led Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine win the esteemed competition in its inaugural year, bringing $15 million in federal funding immediately, with up to $160 million total over the life of the program from the NSF to supercharge growth and cutting-edge research in battery development and manufacturing in Upstate NY. The projects selected this year will build upon the inaugural cohort’s work developing new state-of-the-art technology. Schumer created the NSF’s Regional Innovation Engines Program in his CHIPS & Science Law as a program that falls under the newly created NSF Directorate of Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships. Schumer proposed the creation of this Directorate originally in his bipartisan Endless Frontier Act, with a focus on delivering investment in research, workforce training, and entrepreneurship in key technology areas like AI, semiconductors, quantum computing, biotechnology, climate-smart research, advanced materials, and more. The NSF Regional Innovation Engines program catalyzes and fosters innovation ecosystems across the United States to promote and stimulate economic growth, job creation, and spur regional innovation. Each NSF Engine can receive up to $160 million over 10 years; actual amounts will be subject to a given NSF Engine's status and overall progress, as assessed annually. The teams selected in this recent announcement will submit full proposals to NSF by February 2025, with final awards made next year, pending appropriations. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-secure-nearly-12-million-to-replace-bridge-street-bridge-over-schoharie-creek,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND SECURE NEARLY $12 MILLION TO REPLACE BRIDGE STREET BRIDGE OVER SCHOHARIE CREEK",2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Senators Say Fed $$ Will Support Critical Replacement Of 100-Year-Old Bridge Via Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Competitive “Bridge Investment Program” Schumer, Gillibrand: The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law Is Helping Bridge The Gap To Build Long Overdue Projects The Capital Region! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $11,600,000 for Schoharie County to replace the Bridge Street bridge over Schoharie Creek as a recipient of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) highly competitive Bridge Investment Program. The federal funding, created in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law championed by the senators, will help replace the aging bridge, which is a vital connector in Schoharie County. “The Bridge Street bridge is a vital connector in Schoharie County, but after 100 years of use, it is nearing the end of its useful life. This $11.6 million will boost efforts to replace the bridge and restore this vital connector for Schoharie County,” said Senator Schumer. “The next closest bridge over Schoharie Creek is more than 20 minutes away. When considering emergency vehicles, that 20 minutes is vital. New York State has already put a weight restriction on the bridge due to its condition, and it’s vital that we build a replacement bridge as soon as possible to keep people safe and to maximize ease of transport and economic efficiency. I fought to create the Bridge Investment Program in our Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law because I know how important boosting federal investment in bridges is to protecting travelers’ safety while creating good-paying jobs. I’m proud that the law is continuing to deliver for the Capital Region.” “Infrastructure like the Bridge Street bridge helps local economies thrive, plays a vital role in protecting public safety, and connects communities,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Bridge Street serves as a crucial overpass for emergency vehicles, farm vehicles, and citizens of Schoharie County, and its replacement is long overdue. I’m proud to have fought for the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and helped secure this funding for the Capital Region. I will continue working to deliver federal dollars to New York for the improvement of our infrastructure.” ""We are deeply grateful to Senator Schumer, Senator Gillibrand, Lieutenant Governor Delgado, Congresswoman Stefanik and all the bipartisan supporters for securing the $11.6 million needed for Schoharie’s new Bridge Street Bridge. This bridge is essential for our town—it boosts the safety and efficiency of our roads, ensures emergency responders can act quickly, supports our farmers who rely on it, and links our community hubs. This investment is a big win for everyone in Schoharie County, showing a strong commitment to enhancing our critical infrastructure,” said Benjamin Oevering, Supervisor, Town of Schoharie. The Bridge Street bridge is a vital connector in Schoharie County, but after 100 years of use, it is nearing the end of its useful life. The federal funding secured by the senators will help the county build a new bridge, increasing safety and creating jobs. New York State has put a weight restriction on the bridge due to its condition, and the County is concerned that further disrepair could eventually limit its use by emergency vehicles. The nearest bridge is approximately 10 miles away, adding 20-25 minutes in commute time. The senators also said that farm vehicles use the bridge regularly, and the bridge is vital to the County’s thriving rural agriculture economy. The senators explained that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act included $12.5 billion appropriated annually over five years (FY 22-26) to help plan, replace, rehabilitate, protect, and preserve some of the nation’s largest bridges, ensuring that they remain operational, support local economies, strengthen supply chains, and improve safety. The Capital Region was one of the first in the nation to tap into this federal funding when Schumer and Gillibrand secured $21 million to repair and modernize the Castleton-on-Hudson Bridge in April 2023. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/schumer-gillibrand-announce-nearly-12-million-for-ogdensburg-bridge-port-authority-for-freight-rail-modernization-in-north-country/,"Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Nearly $12 Million For Ogdensburg Bridge & Port Authority For Freight Rail Modernization In North Country",2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Senators Explain Project Will Greenlight Major Rail Modernization And Upgrade 14+ Miles Of Track In St. Lawrence County, Improving Safety, Efficiency, Resilience & Competitiveness Of Ogdensburg Area Railroad Built In The Early 1900s Funding Comes From Consolidated Rail Infrastructure And Safey Improvements Program That Senators Fought To Boost Funding For In Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law Schumer, Gillibrand: This Fed $$ Puts Ogdensburg On Track For A Safer & More Efficient Future! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $11,709,995 to greenlight a major modernization project at the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority (OBPA) which will upgrade over 14 miles of rail, stretching across St. Lawrence County communities from Lisbon to Norwood, equipping the railroad to handle modern, industry standard 286,000-pound freight cars, improving rail safety and reliability, bolstering North Country commerce and good-paying jobs, and much more. The federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program. “The feds just greenlit major modernizations for freight rail by the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority. Many of the rail tracks in the Ogdensburg area are decades old and in need of major upgrades. I am proud to deliver this nearly $12 million fed investment that will help the port do more business by allowing them to more goods quickly and efficiently,” said Senator Schumer. “New modern rail infrastructure will allow for more commerce to flow in the North Country. The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law continues to deliver for the North Country, and I am thrilled that the program is bringing major investment back here to St. Lawrence County.” “This funding will make rail across the North Country safer, more reliable, and more efficient,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I’m proud to have fought to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to provide the funding for this project and many more across New York State and will continue fighting to improve our state’s roads, bridges, and railways.” “The Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority is very pleased to receive substantial funding through the Federal Railroad Administration’s CRISI program. This funding will provide for much needed capacity improvements to the New York and Ogdensburg Railway that services, the Port of Ogdensburg and the North Country economy. These improvements will greatly increase the railroad’s competitive advantage in attracting commerce to our region. On behalf of the OBPA and North Country community we serve, I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Majority Leader Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for their unwavering support and commitment to growth at the OBPA,” said Steve Lawrence, Executive Director, Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority. According to Schumer, this longstanding North Country transportation priority will modernize over 14 miles of OBPA track operated by the New York & Ogdensburg Railway nearing the end of its useful life, stretching across the Town of Lisbon, Town of Madrid, Town of Potsdam, and Village of Norwood. Schumer explained that, currently, this stretch of OBPA rail is only equipped to handle legacy 263,000-pound rail carts, severely limiting its utility, capacity, efficiency and more. Now, thanks to this boost of federal funding, the OBPA will be able to proceed with long-sought upgrades equipping the railroad to handle a larger fleet of modern, industry-standard rail cars. The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law included $5 billion over five years for the CRISI program. The program invests in various projects within the United States to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability; mitigate congestion at both intercity passenger and freight rail chokepoints to support more efficient travel and goods movement; enhance multi-modal connections; and lead to new or substantially improved Intercity Passenger Rail Transportation corridors. Schumer and Gillibrand have long fought to support various projects for the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority. Last month, Schumer announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation named Breeze Airways as Ogdensburg International Airport’s new Essential Air Service carrier. Over the last two years, Senators Schumer and Gillibrand secured awards of $2,100,000 and $1,000,000 for the OBPA’s new 15,000 square foot childcare center. In 2016, Senators Schumer and Gillibrand secured over $11,000,000 to the Ogdensburg International Airport from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP) for their airport expansion project. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-400000-in-fed-funding-for-binghamtons-klaw-industries,"SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $400,000 IN FED FUNDING FOR BINGHAMTON’S KLAW INDUSTRIES",2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"New EPA $$ Will Help KLAW Develop Tech To Reduce Waste Sent To Landfill With Automated Recycling System To Bolster Operations In The Southern Tier Schumer: KLAW Is The Success Story I Had In Mind When Establishing A High-Tech Incubator In Binghamton! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced $400,000 in federal funding for the Binghamton-based KLAW Industries to produce a robotic sorting system to improve recycling facilities in disadvantaged communities. The federal funding comes from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR). “KLAW Industries is exactly the kind of innovative company I had in mind when I joined with Binghamton University, New York State and Broome County to establish a high-tech incubator in the City of Binghamton. Today’s announcement of $400,000 in federal funding builds on the success of this innovative, homegrown business,” said Senator Schumer. “From incubator to their growing operation today, KLAW is paving the way to grow the region’s economy and make significant contributions in the material used in the concrete industry.” Schumer added, “With these funds, KLAW will be able to advance its glass sorting capabilities by creating a state-of-the-art robotic sorting system to improve both the processes at glass recycling facilities, and the number of facilities they can service. That means more glass material kept out of landfills, more material flowing to their Binghamton facility to help them grow! Once again, the Southern Tier is proving to be a leader, and I am thrilled that these funds are flowing to the Southern Tier.” “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the EPA in identifying impactful end uses for our recycled materials. This achievement would not have been possible without the invaluable support of the City of Binghamton and Broome County, who have played a key role in bringing national recognition to the important work happening here,” said Jacob Kumpon, Co-Founder and COO of KLAW Industries. “The EPA SBIR Phase II award will significantly enhance KLAW’s capacity to process recycled materials, marking a critical step in our efforts to divert local waste from landfills. The Koffman Southern Tier Incubator has been instrumental in securing federal support for Binghamton, and we are especially grateful for Senator Schumer’s foresight in making the Koffman a reality”. KLAW Industries is a Binghamton-based company that re-purposes contaminated glass, not suitable for recycling, that would otherwise be sent to a landfill, into a replacement for cement called Pantheon. The inclusion of this patent-pending material into concrete, reduces carbon emissions and the amount of waste sent to landfills. KLAW received an initial Phase I award of $100,000 earlier this year for “proof of concept” for their technology and was invited to apply for Phase II funding of $400,000 to further develop and commercialize the technology. The second phase of federal funding that Schumer announced today will help KLAW expand their operations on Griswold Street to develop technology that will create an autonomous robotic sorting system for recycling facilities. This will help KLAW find contaminated glass to make Pantheon and create more efficient recycling sorting methods in disadvantaged communities in Binghamton and beyond. After bringing federal officials to Binghamton to discuss plans with project leaders in 2013, Schumer helped secured $2 million in federal funding for the Koffman Southern Tier incubator in downtown Binghamton, which KLAW Industries is part of. With Schumer’s help, the incubator has grown to support hundreds of jobs and become a magnet for entrepreneurs from around the region, state, and country. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-nearly-12-million-for-ogdensburg-bridge-and-port-authority-for-freight-rail-modernization-in-north-country,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE NEARLY $12+ MILLION FOR OGDENSBURG BRIDGE & PORT AUTHORITY FOR FREIGHT RAIL MODERNIZATION IN NORTH COUNTRY",2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Senators Explain Project Will Greenlight Major Rail Modernization And Upgrade 14+ Miles Of Track In St Lawrence County, Improving Safety, Efficiency, Resilience & Competitiveness Of Ogdensburg Area Railroad Built In The Early 1900s Funding Comes From Consolidated Rail Infrastructure And Safey Improvements Program That Schumer Fought To Boost Funding For In Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law Schumer, Gillibrand: This Fed $$ Puts Ogdensburg On Track For A Safer & More Efficient Future! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $11,709,995 to greenlight a major modernization project at the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority (OBPA) which will upgrade over 14 miles of rail, stretching across St Lawrence County communities from Lisbon to Norwood, equipping the railroad to handle modern, industry standard 286,000-pound freight cars, improving rail safety and reliability, bolstering North Country commerce and good-paying jobs, and much more. The federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which Schumer fought to increase funding for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. “The feds just greenlit major modernizations for freight rail by the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority. Many of the rail tracks in the Ogdensburg area are decades old and in need of major upgrades. I am proud to deliver this nearly $12 million fed investment that will help the port do more business by allowing them to more goods quickly and efficiently,” said Senator Schumer. “New modern rail infrastructure will allow for more commerce to flow in the North Country. The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law continues to deliver for the North Country, and I am thrilled that the program is bringing major investment back here to St. Lawrence County.” “This funding will make rail across the North Country safer, more reliable, and more efficient. I’m proud to have fought to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to provide the funding for this project and many more across New York State and will continue fighting to improve our state’s roads, bridges, and railways,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority is very pleased to receive substantial funding through the Federal Railroad Administration’s CRISI program. This funding will provide for much needed capacity improvements to the New York and Ogdensburg Railway that services, the Port of Ogdensburg and the North Country economy. These improvements will greatly increase the railroad’s competitive advantage in attracting commerce to our region. On behalf of the OBPA and North Country community we serve, I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Majority Leader Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for their unwavering support and commitment to growth at the OBPA,” said Steve Lawrence, Executive Director, Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority. According to Schumer, this longstanding North Country transportation priority will modernize over 14 miles of OBPA track operated by the New York & Ogdensburg Railway nearing the end of its useful life, stretching across the Town of Lisbon, Town of Madrid, Town of Potsdam, and Village of Norwood. Schumer explained that, currently, this stretch of OBPA rail is only equipped to handle legacy 263,000-pound rail carts, severely limiting its utility, capacity, efficiency and more. Now, thanks to this boost of federal funding, the OBPA will be able to proceed with long-sought upgrades equipping the railroad to handle a larger fleet of modern, industry-standard rail cars. The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, which Schumer crafted and led to passage in the Senate, included $5 billion over five years for the CRISI program. The program invests in various projects within the United States to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability; mitigate congestion at both intercity passenger and freight rail chokepoints to support more efficient travel and goods movement; enhance multi-modal connections; and lead to new or substantially improved Intercity Passenger Rail Transportation corridors. Schumer and Gillibrand have long fought to support various projects for the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority. Last month, Schumer announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation named Breeze Airways as Ogdensburg International Airport’s new Essential Air Service carrier. In 2023, Schumer secured $5,000,000 through the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to complete the Port of Ogdensburg’s terminal expansion project. In 2022, Schumer secured $3,000,000 or construction and repairs to the Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge. Over the last two years, Senators Schumer and Gillibrand secured awards of $2,100,000 and $1,000,000 for the OBPA’s new 15,000 square foot childcare center. In 2016, Senators Schumer and Gillibrand secured over $11,000,000 to the Ogdensburg International Airport from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP) for their airport expansion project. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-delivers-nearly-16-million-to-steuben-county-alstom-and-binghamton-battery-hub-to-develop-cutting-edge-battery-tech-at-alstoms-hornell-facility-for-next-gen-energy-efficient-trains,"SCHUMER DELIVERS NEARLY $16 MILLION TO STEUBEN COUNTY, ALSTOM, & BINGHAMTON BATTERY HUB TO DEVELOP CUTTING EDGE BATTERY TECH AT ALSTOM’S HORNELL FACILITY FOR NEXT GEN ENERGY-EFFICIENT TRAINS",2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Funding Will Help Alstom & Partners Produce And Test Hybrid, Battery-Powered Trains At Southern Tier Facility Schumer Urged U.S. Transportation Secretary – Which Brings Together Two Emerging Areas Of Manufacturing In The Southern Tier – To Fund Project Boosted By The Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law Schumer: Fed $$ For Battery-Powered Rail Development Puts Southern Tier On Track To Lead In Developing Future Of This Industry! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced $15,982,500 for Steuben County IDA, in partnership with Norfolk Southern Railway, Binghamton University’s New Energy New York (NENY) consortium, and Alstom to develop new battery technology for more energy-efficient trains. “This nearly $16 million in federal funding puts Steuben County IDA and its partners – including Alstom, a national leader in cutting-edge rail development – on track to develop new state-of-the-art hybrid locomotives that will enhance rail safety and improve climate resilience,” said Senator Schumer. “I’ve led the charge to establish the Southern Tier as a hub for battery manufacturing and research & development, and today’s investment will boost efforts to make sure the next generation of rail technology is stamped ‘Made in Upstate NY.’ I also fought to boost funding for the Department of Transportation’s rail infrastructure improvement program in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law and am thrilled that the program is continuing to deliver for NY.” This project will help produce and test two hybrid, battery-powered trains at Alstom’s Southern Tier facility and aims to enhance safety and improve climate resilience. The federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program, which Schumer fought to increase funding for in his Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law. “Alstom is grateful to Senator Schumer for his support and leadership that has made New York's Southern Tier the nation's center of rail manufacturing excellence,” said Michael Keroullé, Alstom Americas President. “Together with our partners, Steuben County Industrial Development Agency, Binghamton University and Norfolk Southern, we will use this project to develop and test new battery and rail technologies to help advance efforts to decarbonize the freight sector.” Steuben County Industrial Development Agency’s Federal Railroad Administration’s Hybrid Locomotive Project aims to develop new battery technology to produce and test two hybrid, battery-diesel locomotives at Alstom’s Kanona facility in Bath. The rebuilt locomotives will use batteries as the primary power source, enhancing safety and improving climate resilience. “The Steuben County Industrial Development Agency is pleased to be partnering with Alstom and Norfolk Southern Railway on the development of the locomotive of the future at Alstom’s facility in Kanona, New York. The CRISI award will help advance a new clean diesel battery hybrid technology that builds off the region’s deep history in transportation manufacturing and innovation in battery and clean energy technology. The project aligns the region’s strengths to establish the County as a leader in clean tech manufacturing. We appreciate the strong support that Senator Schumer has shown towards the Steuben County IDA and his commitment to new battery technology in the Southern Tier, ” said James C. Johnson, Executive Director of Steuben County Industrial Development Agency. The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, which Schumer crafted and led to passage in the Senate, included $5 billion over five years for the CRISI program. The program invests in various projects within the United States to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability; mitigate congestion at both intercity passenger and freight rail chokepoints to support more efficient travel and goods movement; enhance multi-modal connections; and lead to new or substantially improved Intercity Passenger Rail Transportation corridors. Schumer has long fought to secure federal investment to boost Binghamton and Upstate NY’s battery manufacturing and R&D. Most recently, Schumer announced the Binghamton University-led Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine won the esteemed U.S. National Science Foundation’s Regional “Innovation Engines” Competition (NSF Engines), which was created by his CHIPS & Science Law. Schumer said the Binghamton-led project was one of only ten projects across the country selected for this award which brings $15 million in federal funding, with up to $160 million total over the life of the program from the NSF to supercharge growth and cutting-edge research in battery development and manufacturing in Upstate NY. ""Our engineers have met with Alstom representatives and discussed future collaborations on this exciting project. Through our Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences and through all of our resources available through our New Energy New York and Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine programs, we stand ready to assist Alstom in any way we are able. Electrification of all forms of transportation-- vehicles, planes and trains-- is simply what has to happen in the US and we are pleased to play a role in this important transformation,"" said Dean Atul Kelkar, Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Binghamton University. Schumer secured the prestigious tech hubs designation for Binghamton University’s New Energy New York (NENY) project, which he also created in the CHIPS & Science Act, accelerating the Southern Tier’s emergence as America’s next battery tech hub. Receiving that designation made $500,000 in funding through the CHIPS & Science Law, along with the potential for philanthropic and private sector investment, possible. Schumer designed the Tech Hubs program to strengthen a region’s capacity to commercialize, manufacture, and grow technology in key focus areas like batteries, and now, thanks to his efforts, Binghamton is spurring innovation and bringing the manufacturing of batteries back to America, all while supporting the economic resurgence of the Southern Tier. In addition to the NSF Engine award and national recognition through the Tech Hubs program, Schumer’s American Rescue Plan created programs like the $1 billion Build Back Better Regional Challenge (BBBRC) that also supported Binghamton’s efforts. Schumer personally advocated for the selection of Binghamton University’s battery hub proposal for the BBBRC federal investment and in December 2021, Binghamton’s project was selected as a Phase 1 awardee out of over 500 applications from around the country to compete for a final award. In April 2022, Schumer personally visited the Southern Tier to double down on his advocacy, standing with Dr. Whittingham, to reiterate his support and urge federal leaders to select Binghamton as a final Regional Challenge awardee. Finally, in September 2022, Schumer secured Binghamton’s spot as a final awardee, with a $63.7 million federal investment, one of the largest grants made in the competition, which was matched by $50 million in funding from New York State, to help make the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes a national hub for battery research and manufacturing. Additionally, Schumer brought Dr. Whittingham as his guest to last year’s State of the Union to highlight Binghamton’s national leadership in battery technology. A copy of Schumer’s letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg can be found below: Dear Secretary Buttigieg: I am pleased to write on behalf of the Steuben County Industrial Development Agency’s application to the Federal Railroad Administration’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement (CRISI) Program. This collaborative effort between the Steuben County IDA, Alstom, Norfolk Southern Railway, and Binghamton University’s New Energy New York (NENY) consortium will result in the production and testing of two hybrid, battery-diesel locomotives. The project will demonstrate the efficiency, reliability, and commercial viability of technology that can be implemented to help accelerate the reduction of carbon emissions in the freight rail industry. In particular, the project will convert two GP 38/40 locomotives into a battery-diesel hybrid design. These locomotives will be remanufactured at Alstom’s Kanona facility in Bath, NY, and will reuse existing steel frames to significantly reduce carbon emissions. The rebuilt locomotives will use batteries as the primary power source, increasing pulling capacity by approximately 50% and maximizing engine efficiency. In addition, the locomotive will be designed to allow for the diesel engine to be replaced with zero emission technology as it becomes commercially and technology viable. This is a first step toward developing important prototype technology that has the potential to greatly benefit both industry and the environment. The Southern Tier is well positioned to help advance energy storage solutions for the freight rail industry given Binghamton University’s NENY. Following years of personal advocacy, NENY was designated a U.S. Economic Development Administration (U.S. EDA) Regional Technology and Innovation Hub, National Science Foundation (NSF) Regional Innovation Engine, and secured significant investment through the Build Back Better Regional Challenge. These federal awards recognize the region’s ability to lead the nation in battery innovation. Hence, the collaboration with experts at Binghamton University on battery-related subjects such as power density, modeling, and optimization underscores the potential of this project. I applaud the Steuben County Industrial Development Agency and the other partners for their foresight and sincerely hope the application is met with your approval. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact me or my grants coordinator at (202) 224-6542. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-secures-whopping-215-million-in-fed-funding-for-aging-livingston-avenue-rail-bridge_largest-crisi-award-ever--to-replace-bridge-spanning-the-hudson-river-between-albany-and-rensselaer,SCHUMER SECURES WHOPPING $215 MILLION IN FED FUNDING FOR AGING LIVINGSTON AVENUE RAIL BRIDGE – LARGEST CRISI AWARD EVER – TO REPLACE BRIDGE SPANNING THE HUDSON RIVER BETWEEN ALBANY AND RENSSELAER,2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Award For Livingston Avenue Bridge Will Help Replace 125 Year Old Structure & Civil War-Era Piers & Is Largest CRISI Award EVER – Federal Funding For Rail Infrastructure Improvements – In The History Of The Program Schumer Relentlessly Advocated To Fund Bridge Placement Project, Calling On US Transportation Secretary & Amtrak CEO To Deliver Resources For Critical Infrastructure Improvement In Capital Region Schumer: New Bridge Over The Hudson Will Ensure Service And Reliability Of Key Connection To Points West and North Of The Albany/Rensselaer Station, While Allowing For Nautical Traffic Along The River & Finally Establishing A Long Dreamt Of Pedestrian Connection U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced $215,104,000 in federal funding for the replacement of the Livingston Avenue Rail Bridge, some of which dates back to the Civil War-era, spanning the Hudson River between Albany and Rensselaer. The federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which Schumer fought to increase funding for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, and is the largest CRISI award announced in the history of the program. “The Livingston Avenue Bridge provides the only viable passenger rail passage across the Hudson River, between Albany and Rensselaer, but it is approximately 125 years old and rests on piers from the Civil War-era and has deteriorated significantly, putting upstate passenger rail and rover traffic at risk. This whopping $215+ million in federal funding will help replace the bridge, improving service and reliability along the Empire Corridor, ensure river traffic flow, and provide a long desired pedestrian link as well,” said Senator Schumer. “It’s a good day to have the Senate Majority Leader represent the Capital Region. This bridge is the key link that allows passenger travel between New York City and points west of Rensselaer, across Upstate, and north to Montreal. I’ve fought tirelessly to deliver the resources necessary to make this project possible, from fighting to increase funding for the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program in the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law and then personally calling Transportation Secretary Buttigieg to secure this grant. I’m proud that the program is delivering BIG – the largest award in the history of the program – for the Capital Region and all of Upstate today.” The Livingston Avenue Bridge replacement project will replace the passenger rail bridge spanning the Hudson River between Albany and Rensselaer. The new bridge will allow simultaneous two-track operation and remove speed restrictions, improving service and reliability along the Empire Corridor while keeping pedestrians and cyclists safe. Schumer has relentlessly advocated to secure federal funding for this project, personally calling U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg earlier this year and previously urging the CEO of Amtrak to work in partnership with the New York State Department of Transportation and CSX to address the future of the Livingston Avenue Bridge. Earlier this year, Governor Hochul announced $634.8 million in state funding to replace the bridge. The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, which Schumer crafted and led to passage in the Senate, included $5 billion over five years for the CRISI program. The program invests in various projects within the United States to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability; mitigate congestion at both intercity passenger and freight rail chokepoints to support more efficient travel and goods movement; enhance multi-modal connections; and lead to new or substantially improved Intercity Passenger Rail Transportation corridors. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/schumer-gillibrand-announce-over-11-million-in-federal-funding-for-airports-across-new-york-state/,"Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Over $11 Million In Federal Funding For Airports Across New York State",2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $11,195,520 in federal funding to strengthen infrastructure and rehabilitate facilities at four airports across New York State. The funding, granted through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Airport Terminal Program, will finance projects that address reconstruction and expansion at New York’s airports. The projects include constructing and rehabilitating air traffic control towers, expanding airport terminals and roadways, and upgrading HVAC and security systems. “When I became majority leader, I promised to deliver the federal funding needed to support much-needed infrastructure improvements at New York’s airports, and that is just what we delivered when created the Airport Terminal Program in our Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. With this $11+ million in federal funding, long overdue upgrades such as new control towers and expanded terminals at airports from Long Island to Western NY are now ready for take-off!” said Senator Schumer. “Upgrading terminals means more jobs, increased safety, and smoother travel experiences, and I’m proud that the program is continuing to help New York reach new heights.” “This significant federal investment of more than $11 million through the Airport Terminal Program will bring much-needed infrastructure modernization to airports across New York State,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Funding like this is vital for the safety and security of passengers and airport employees. I am proud to announce these awards and will continue fighting to deliver critical funding to airports across New York State.” “The Buffalo Niagara International Airport brings tourists to our region and connects Western New Yorkers with the world,” said Congressman Kennedy. “With over $7.9 million to rebuild the existing terminal roadway, we are strengthening safety and enhancing resilience at the airport. Thanks to the game-changing investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are transforming the airport to meet the needs of travelers now and in the future, while creating good-paying jobs.” A full list of funding recipients can be found below:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-over-11-million-in-federal-funding-for-airports-across-new-york-state,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE OVER $11 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR AIRPORTS ACROSS NEW YORK STATE",2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $11,195,520 in federal funding to strengthen infrastructure and rehabilitate facilities at four airports across New York State. The funding, granted through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Airport Terminal Program, will finance projects that address reconstruction and expansion at New York’s airports. The projects include constructing and rehabilitating air traffic control towers, expanding airport terminals and roadways, and upgrading HVAC and security systems. “When I became majority leader, I promised to deliver the federal funding needed to support much-needed infrastructure improvements at New York’s airports, and that is just what we delivered when created the Airport Terminal Program in our Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. With this $11+ million in federal funding, long overdue upgrades such as new control towers and expanded terminals at airports from Long Island to Western NY are now ready for take-off!” said Senator Schumer. “Upgrading terminals means more jobs, increased safety, and smoother travel experiences, and I’m proud that the program is continuing to help New York reach new heights.” “This significant federal investment of more than $11 million through the Airport Terminal Program will bring much-needed infrastructure modernization to airports across New York State,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Funding like this is vital for the safety and security of passengers and airport employees. I am proud to announce these awards and will continue fighting to deliver critical funding to airports across New York State.” A full list of funding recipients can be found below:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/following-their-call-for-accountability-forr-failures-at-buffalo-va-schumer-gillibrand-kennedy-langworthy-announce-nationwide-review-to-identify-investigate-systemic-issues-within-the-vas-comm/,"Following Their Call For Accountability For Failures at Buffalo VA, Schumer, Gillibrand, Kennedy, Langworthy Announce Nationwide Review To Identify & Investigate Systemic Issues Within The VA’s Community Care Practices",2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Investigation Will Help Ensure That No Veteran – In Buffalo Or Anywhere Else In The Country – Fails To Receive Desperately Needed Treatment Again Following their call for accountability after egregious failures at the Buffalo VA left veterans waiting weeks or months to receive care, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Representative Tim Kennedy, and Representative Nick Langworthy today announced a nationwide evaluation of the VA’s community care consult practices to root out systemic issues within the VA’s health care network. At Schumer, Gillibrand, Kennedy, and Langworthy’s request, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) will be conducting a comprehensive review of the VA’s community care consult practices. The investigation will include a review of the VA’s practices around scheduling patient treatment, particularly for high-risk and complex conditions. It will also review practices around handling concerns raised by patients and health care providers in the case of delayed treatment. “No veteran, in Western NY or anywhere in America, should experience failures like those that occurred at the Buffalo VA. We must make sure this unacceptable failure to provide the care our veterans need never happens again. This new independent investigation by the Government Accountability Office will conduct a top-to-bottom review of the VA’s nationwide practices,” said Senator Schumer. “We must put better infrastructure and oversight practices in place to protect veterans in Western NY and across the country. We will be watching the VA like a hawk to ensure changes are made and VA centers across the country deliver on their promise to our vets to provide them the top-notch care they have earned and deserve.” “What happened at the Buffalo VA was unacceptable. Nothing should ever get in the way of veterans receiving desperately needed care,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I am glad that the Government Accountability Office is investigating the VA at my urging and I look forward to seeing the results of their investigation. I will continue to monitor this situation closely and fight to ensure that no veteran slips through the cracks.” “I am pleased that the Government Accountability Office is moving forward with reviewing VA community care practices to ensure our heroes receive the quality and timely medical services they deserve,” said Congressman Kennedy. “I will continue to do everything in my power to uphold our duty of care and get the Buffalo VA back on track.” “We must keep our nation’s promise to our veterans that when they get home, they get the care they earned and deserve — the failures that caused critical delays in care at the Buffalo VA are absolutely unacceptable,” said Congressman Langworthy. “This new investigation led by the Government Accountability Office will help us identify the problems that allowed this to happen and ensure it never happens again. I’ll be actively involved to make sure we hold the VA accountable and deliver real results for our veterans.” According to a report from the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, critically ill patients at the Buffalo VA had their treatments postponed for months or even canceled entirely, despite concerns raised by patients and health care providers. In one case, a patient waited nine weeks for radiation therapy for a new cancer malignancy, despite efforts by the chief of oncology to get the community care team to schedule treatment. In another, a veteran died waiting for palliative radiation therapy that would have eased severe pain from stage 4 cancer. Following the shocking revelations of the report the lawmakers requested an independent investigation by the GAO into the VA community care practices that led to these failures to ensure better care for veterans both in Western NY and across the country. Specifically, the GAO review will include: Oversight of medical centers’ adherence to Veterans Health Administration (VHA) requirements for processing consults for conditions considered high-risk or complex; Whether consults are appropriately prioritized and consistently processed within VHA’s timeliness requirements; Reviewing how medical facilities, VISN leaders, and the VHA Office of Integrated Veteran Care respond to concerns regarding delays in consult scheduling from providers, staff, patients, and their families and how this is built into VHA’s quality and risk management programs; Best practices to prevent and address leadership deficiencies within the community care scheduling process, including the prioritization of patient safety. The full text of Senator Schumer, Gillibrand, Kennedy, and Langworthy’s original letter requesting this investigation by the Government Accountability Office is available HERE or below: Dear Mr. Dodaro: On Friday, September 27th, the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (“OIG”) released its findings following its inspection of the VA Western New York Health System in Buffalo, New York. The report – Leaders Failed to Address Community Care Consult Delays Despite Staff’s Advocacy Efforts at VA Western New York Healthcare System in Buffalo – found a shocking pattern of apathy and incompetence on the part of Department facility and community care leaders in addressing the needs of patients with complex and high-risk conditions. As the report indicates, these delays caused or led to an increased risk of harm to the patients. One veteran passed away while waiting months to receive palliative care that would have helped manage cancer pain in their final months. Another patient waited nine weeks to schedule radiation therapy for a new cancer malignancy, despite efforts by the chief of oncology to get the community care team to schedule treatment. Another veteran in their twenties continued to suffer from seizures for another 10 months as they waited for a consult to be scheduled, the delay partially caused by a referral being canceled by the community care medical director. These are only some of the cases highlighted by an OIG report that identified incompetence and bureaucratic red tape that failed the veterans in Buffalo again and again. The failure by the leadership at the Buffalo VA Medical Center must never occur again, and veterans across the United States must be reassured that they can receive timely and high-quality health care across the VA health care system. Therefore, I request that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a review of Veterans Integrated Services Networks’ (VISN) community care consult practices. The review should include, but not be limited to: Oversight of medical centers’ adherence to Veterans Health Administration (VHA) requirements for processing consults for conditions considered high-risk or complex; Whether consults are appropriately prioritized and consistently processed within VHA’s timeliness requirements; Reviewing how medical facility, VISN leaders, and the VHA Office of Integrated Veteran Care respond to concerns regarding delays in consult scheduling from providers, staff, patients, and their families and how this is built into VHA’s quality and risk management programs; Best practices to prevent and address leadership deficiencies within the community care scheduling process, including the prioritization of patient safety; I request a briefing on the preliminary findings with final results to be submitted on a date and in form mutually agreed upon. Please include recommendations, as appropriate, for agency or congressional action in your evaluation. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/following-their-call-for-accountability-for-failures-at-buffalo-va-schumer-gillibrand-kennedy-langworthy-announce-nationwide-review-to-identify-and-investigate-systemic-issues-within-the-vas-community-care-practices,"FOLLOWING THEIR CALL FOR ACCOUNTABILITY FOR FAILURES AT BUFFALO VA, SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, KENNEDY, LANGWORTHY ANNOUNCE NATIONWIDE REVIEW TO IDENTIFY & INVESTIGATE SYSTEMIC ISSUES WITHIN THE VA’S...",2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Investigation Will Help Ensure That No Veteran – In Buffalo Or Anywhere Else In The Country – Fails To Receive Desperately Needed Treatment Again Following their call for accountability after egregious failures at the Buffalo VA left veterans waiting weeks or months to receive care, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Representative Tim Kennedy, and Representative Nick Langworthy today announced a nationwide evaluation of the VA’s community care consult practices to root out systemic issues within the VA’s health care network. At Schumer, Gillibrand, Kennedy, and Langworthy’s request, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) will be conducting a comprehensive review of the VA’s community care consult practices. The investigation will include a review of the VA’s practices around scheduling patient treatment, particularly for high-risk and complex conditions. It will also review practices around handling concerns raised by patients and health care providers in the case of delayed treatment. “No veteran, in Western NY or anywhere in America, should experience failures like those that occurred at the Buffalo VA. We must make sure this unacceptable failure to provide the care our veterans need never happens again. This new independent investigation by the Government Accountability Office will conduct a top-to-bottom review of the VA’s nationwide practices,” said Senator Schumer. “We must put better infrastructure and oversight practices in place to protect veterans in Western NY and across the country. We will be watching the VA like a hawk to ensure changes are made and VA centers across the country deliver on their promise to our vets to provide them the top-notch care they have earned and deserve.” “What happened at the Buffalo VA was unacceptable. Nothing should ever get in the way of veterans receiving desperately needed care,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I am glad that the Government Accountability Office is investigating the VA at my urging and I look forward to seeing the results of their investigation. I will continue to monitor this situation closely and fight to ensure that no veteran slips through the cracks.” “I am pleased that the Government Accountability Office is moving forward with reviewing VA community care practices to ensure our heroes receive the quality and timely medical services they deserve,” said Congressman Kennedy. “I will continue to do everything in my power to uphold our duty of care and get the Buffalo VA back on track.” “We must keep our nation’s promise to our veterans that when they get home, they get the care they earned and deserve — the failures that caused critical delays in care at the Buffalo VA are absolutely unacceptable,” said Congressman Langworthy. “This new investigation led by the Government Accountability Office will help us identify the problems that allowed this to happen and ensure it never happens again. I’ll be actively involved to make sure we hold the VA accountable and deliver real results for our veterans.” According to a report from the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, critically ill patients at the Buffalo VA had their treatments postponed for months or even canceled entirely, despite concerns raised by patients and health care providers. In one case, a patient waited nine weeks for radiation therapy for a new cancer malignancy, despite efforts by the chief of oncology to get the community care team to schedule treatment. In another, a veteran died waiting for palliative radiation therapy that would have eased severe pain from stage 4 cancer. Following the shocking revelations of the report the lawmakers requested an independent investigation by the GAO into the VA community care practices that led to these failures to ensure better care for veterans both in Western NY and across the country. Specifically, the GAO review will include: Oversight of medical centers’ adherence to Veterans Health Administration (VHA) requirements for processing consults for conditions considered high-risk or complex; Whether consults are appropriately prioritized and consistently processed within VHA’s timeliness requirements; Reviewing how medical facilities, VISN leaders, and the VHA Office of Integrated Veteran Care respond to concerns regarding delays in consult scheduling from providers, staff, patients, and their families and how this is built into VHA’s quality and risk management programs; Best practices to prevent and address leadership deficiencies within the community care scheduling process, including the prioritization of patient safety. The full text of Senator Schumer, Gillibrand, Kennedy, and Langworthy’s original letter requesting this investigation by the Government Accountability Office is available below: Dear Mr. Dodaro: On Friday, September 27th, the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (“OIG”) released its findings following its inspection of the VA Western New York Health System in Buffalo, New York. The report – Leaders Failed to Address Community Care Consult Delays Despite Staff’s Advocacy Efforts at VA Western New York Healthcare System in Buffalo – found a shocking pattern of apathy and incompetence on the part of Department facility and community care leaders in addressing the needs of patients with complex and high-risk conditions. As the report indicates, these delays caused or led to an increased risk of harm to the patients. One veteran passed away while waiting months to receive palliative care that would have helped manage cancer pain in their final months. Another patient waited nine weeks to schedule radiation therapy for a new cancer malignancy, despite efforts by the chief of oncology to get the community care team to schedule treatment. Another veteran in their twenties continued to suffer from seizures for another 10 months as they waited for a consult to be scheduled, the delay partially caused by a referral being canceled by the community care medical director. These are only some of the cases highlighted by an OIG report that identified incompetence and bureaucratic red tape that failed the veterans in Buffalo again and again. The failure by the leadership at the Buffalo VA Medical Center must never occur again, and veterans across the United States must be reassured that they can receive timely and high-quality health care across the VA health care system. Therefore, I request that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a review of Veterans Integrated Services Networks’ (VISN) community care consult practices. The review should include, but not be limited to: Oversight of medical centers’ adherence to Veterans Health Administration (VHA) requirements for processing consults for conditions considered high-risk or complex; Whether consults are appropriately prioritized and consistently processed within VHA’s timeliness requirements; Reviewing how medical facility, VISN leaders, and the VHA Office of Integrated Veteran Care respond to concerns regarding delays in consult scheduling from providers, staff, patients, and their families and how this is built into VHA’s quality and risk management programs; Best practices to prevent and address leadership deficiencies within the community care scheduling process, including the prioritization of patient safety; I request a briefing on the preliminary findings with final results to be submitted on a date and in form mutually agreed upon. Please include recommendations, as appropriate, for agency or congressional action in your evaluation. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-750000-to-replace-vital-bridge-over-grasse-river-in-st-lawrence-county,"SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $750,000 TO REPLACE VITAL BRIDGE OVER GRASSE RIVER IN ST. LAWRENCE COUNTY",2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Says Bridge Serves As Vital Corridor For St. Lawrence County’s Timber Industry & Outdoor Recreation Funding Comes From U.S. Economic Development Administration & Northern Border Regional Commission, Which Schumer Delivered Historic Federal $$ For In The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced $750,000 in federal funding to replace the bridge carrying Tooley Pond Road over the South Branch of the Grasse River in the Town of Clare. Schumer said the bridge serves as a vital corridor for St. Lawrence County’s timber industry and outdoor recreation in the North Country. Funding for the new bridge is being provided through a partnership between the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) and the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC), which Schumer delivered a historic funding boost for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. “The Tooley Pond Road bridge over the Grass River is a vital corridor for the Town of Clare community, as well as the North Country timber and outdoor recreation industries. I’m proud to deliver $750,000 in federal funding to restore the bridge and pave the way for a more connected St. Lawrence County,” said Senator Schumer. “I fought to deliver historic increases for the Northern Border Regional Commission because I know how important it is to improve infrastructure across New York, and I am pleased to see those efforts paying off with this investment in strengthening key transportation infrastructure in the Town of Clare and St. Lawrence County.” “As we all know, the Town of Clare is our smallest town in St. Lawrence County and doesn't have the resources to undertake a critical infrastructure project such as this. I am extremely pleased with the support that is being provided by the Northern Border Regional Commission and support from Senator Schumer,” said Larry Denesha, St. Lawrence County Legislator, District 6. Schumer helped deliver a historic $150 million for the NBRC through the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. This has resulted in a surge in federal investment, including earlier this year when Schumer delivered $7.5 million and in 2023 when Schumer delivered over $10 million for projects across Upstate NY through the NBRC—the largest annual investment for Upstate New York in the program’s history. The NRBC funding has nearly doubled since 2022. Schumer is also currently leading the charge in the Senate to renew the Northern Border Regional Commission’s economic development programs and reauthorize the Economic Development Administration, the other federal source for today’s announced investment. Schumer introduced the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) Reauthorization Act of 2023 this past February, which would reauthorize the NBRC for another ten years, increase annual authorized funding levels, and target funds to addressing childcare and health care needs, supporting housing projects, building climate resilient infrastructure, and combatting the opioid crisis, in addition to the agency’s focus of creating new jobs, promoting business retention and expansion, making critical investment in public infrastructure, and boosting tourism across Upstate New York counties. The NBRC reauthorization is part of a broader reauthorization of the Economic Development Administration that passed out of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee earlier this year and is now part of a negotiation for passage by the end of the year, an effort Schumer is actively pushing. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-announces-27-million-in-federal-funding-for-delaware-county-electric-cooperative-as-part-of-the-department-of-energys-grid-resilience-and-innovation-partnerships-grip-program/,Gillibrand Announces $27 Million In Federal Funding For Delaware County Electric Cooperative As Part Of The Department Of Energy’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program,2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Funding Will Improve Grid Resiliency Against Strong Storms And Invasive Species In Rural Areas Of New York Today, Senator Gillibrand announced $27,681,725 in federal funding for the Delaware County Electric Cooperative, Inc. (DCEC). DCEC provides electricity to over 5,000 families, farms, and local businesses in four New York counties – Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, and Schoharie. With this funding, awarded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program, DCEC will lead a partnership composed of six small electric cooperatives to increase grid resilience against outages caused by weather events and tree damage caused by invasive species. This partnership will also serve the counties of Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, Orange, Schuyler, and Steuben, in addition to rural areas of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. “Strong energy infrastructure is critical to the stability of our rural communities, especially given the threats that extreme weather and invasive species pose,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This funding will create good-paying union jobs and deploy advanced technology to support rural communities. I am proud to have voted to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and fought to secure this funding. I will continue working to make sure that New Yorkers have reliable access to strong energy infrastructure.” As DCEC works to improve New York’s grids, it will deploy advanced software to enable proactive grid management, as well as hardware such as grid sensors and drones to provide real-time data and monitoring capabilities. The new technology is anticipated to improve grid reliability and resilience, reducing major outage events by 50%, and help save the local economy millions of dollars per year in outage costs. DCEC will work with five other small electric cooperatives, including Oneida-Madison Electric Cooperative, Otsego Electric Cooperative, Inc., Steuben Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc., Sussex Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc., and Claverack Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. This project will also create an estimated 20 jobs, many of which will be high-quality union positions, and will leverage a workforce career training center that is under development in collaboration with the State University of New York–Delhi. “The rural electric cooperatives of New York are not-for-profit distribution companies and serve some of the areas hardest hit by the impacts of extreme weather and invasive species,” said John Gasstrom, CEO of DCEC. “This grant will enable the co-ops to make resiliency improvements to ensure that we continue to deliver safe and sustainable electricity to our members who rely on it. We also appreciate the support and encouragement we have received from Senator Gillibrand in bringing this funding to the electric cooperatives as we find solutions together to meet our energy challenges and goals.” “At Otsego Electric Cooperative, we believe in forward-thinking solutions that safeguard our grid and enhance reliability for rural communities,” said Tim Johnson, CEO of Otsego Electric Cooperative. “This project represents a vital step toward building a resilient electric network that can withstand future challenges while supporting sustainable growth. We are especially grateful for the Beneficial Electrification League’s detailed support and expertise throughout the application process.” “Oneida-Madison Electric Cooperative is excited to partner with our fellow New York cooperatives in this collaborative effort to strengthen our infrastructures,” said Brian Bell, CEO/General Manager of Oneida-Madison Electric Cooperative. “The Resilience to Intense Storm and Invasive Species-Triggered (RESIST) Grid Disruptions project reflects our shared dedication to ensuring reliable energy for the members we serve.” “By adopting cutting-edge technologies and strengthening our ability to handle future challenges, we are ensuring even more dependable service for our members,” said Bryant Dillon, CPA/General Manager of Steuben Rural Electric Cooperative. “This support not only safeguards our cooperative but also contributes to the broader effort of building a more resilient rural energy system. It marks a significant step forward in our endeavor to provide reliable, safe, and affordable electricity to our members.” This project is part of a $2 billion U.S. Department of Energy investment in 38 projects across 42 states and the District of Columbia to protect the U.S. power grid against growing threats of extreme weather, all funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s GRIP program. The selected projects will lower costs for communities and enable additional grid capacity to meet load growth stemming from an increase in manufacturing and other strains on the electric grid. The selected projects will deploy new, innovative transmission and distribution infrastructure and technology upgrades to enable over 7.5 gigawatts (GW) of grid capacity. Earlier this year, Senator Gillibrand wrote to Secretary Granholm in support of DCEC’s funding application. Senator Gillibrand’s letter can be read below: Dear Secretary Granholm, I write in support of the application submitted by the Delaware County Electric Cooperative (DCEC) for funding from the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Grant Program administered by the U.S. Department of Energy. This funding will be used to improve grid resiliency against strong storms and invasive species in rural areas of New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Established in 1942, DCEC provides electricity to more than 5,200 families, farms, and local businesses across Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, and Schoharie Counties. For a larger project that will enhance the protection of local electric grids, DCEC plans to partner with the Oneida-Madison Electric Cooperative, Otsego Electric Cooperative, Inc., Steuben Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc., Sussex Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc., and Claverack Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. These five other non-profit electric cooperatives collectively serve tens of thousands of members across Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chenango, Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, Orange, Otsego, Schuyler, and Steuben Counties in New York. The requested funding will be used to safeguard rural electric grids from invasive species and intense storms that are causing long-lasting power outages and hurting rural economies. For instance, DCEC has experienced four multi-day power outages since December 2023 due to the proliferation of emerald ash borer–infested trees, which have toppled powerlines, coupled with the increasing threat of extreme weather conditions and other natural hazards. The six electric cooperatives’ proposed project will deliver much-needed upgrades to rural electric grids in three states and enable load growth that the region’s aging electric infrastructure has otherwise constrained. In addition, the project promises to benefit more than 43,000 customers, stimulate regional economic growth, and bring approximately 20 high-quality, clean-energy jobs to areas where the loss of coal power plant and rail jobs, along with a decline in employment opportunities for supporting industries and services, has led to the displacement of the working-age population and high levels of poverty. I ask that you please give this application your full consideration. If you have any questions or desire further information, please do not hesitate to contact my staff at (202) 224-4451. Sincerely, Kirsten Gillibrand United States Senator",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-the-death-of-yahya-sinwar/,Gillibrand Statement On The Death Of Yahya Sinwar,2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement on the death of Yahya Sinwar: “Yahya Sinwar was an evil man who brought untold pain and suffering to countless Israelis and Gazans. As the architect of October 7th, Sinwar is directly responsible for the deaths of more than a thousand innocent Israelis, for hundreds of kidnappings, for rapes and sexual torture, and for bringing death and destruction to his own people. The world is safer, and I hope the path to peace is clearer, now that he is gone.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-new-750-million-preliminary-investment-for-wolfspeed-from-his-chips-and-science-law-senator-says-new_will-help-accelerate-ongoing-mohawk-valley-expansion--support-hundreds-of-good-paying-jobs-in-upstate-ny-at-marcy-nanocenter,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES NEW $750 MILLION PRELIMINARY INVESTMENT FOR WOLFSPEED FROM HIS CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW; SENATOR SAYS NEW $$$ WILL HELP ACCELERATE ONGOING MOHAWK VALLEY EXPANSION & SUPPORT HUNDREDS OF...,2024-10-15,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Includes $750M Agreement For Funding From Schumer’s CHIPS Act & $750M Private Investment, Boosting Wolfspeed’s Ongoing Expansion In Upstate NY And Building A New North Carolina Facility Which Sends Wafers To Oneida County’s Marcy Nanocenter To Be Finished, Providing Long Term Work For Mohawk Valley Wolfspeed Says It Also Plans To Tap Up To Nearly $1 Billion From The CHIPS ITC That Schumer Created To Help Fund Completion Of Mohawk Valley Plant Schumer: My CHIPS & Science Law Is Bringing Wolfspeed To Front Of The Pack & Helping Mohawk Valley Lead America’s Semiconductor Renaissance U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced Wolfspeed has reached a $750 million preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) funding agreement under the CHIPS & Science Law he led in writing and passing into law, helping them unlock an additional $750 million in private investment. Wolfspeed also said it plans to tap nearly $1 billion from the CHIPS Investment Tax Credit that Schumer helped create to fund much of the state-of-the-art equipment being installed to complete the expansion their Silicon Carbide Fabrication Facility at Marcy Nanocenter in Oneida County. Wolfspeed said this massive collective investment will help accelerate their ongoing expansion in the Mohawk Valley and boosting good-paying jobs expected to be created at the Marcy facility. This CHIPS investment will also support Wolfspeed’s new North Carolina Siler City facility which is integral to the Mohawk Valley’s future as it will send wafers to be finished in NY, creating long term work and future growth opportunities for the Marcy operation. “Wolfspeed is leading the pack in bringing semiconductor manufacturing back to America. This major multibillion investment powered by my CHIPS & Science Law will accelerate the ongoing expansion in the Mohawk Valley, helping boost hundreds of good paying jobs and providing long term work for the Marcy fab to succeed well into the future,” said Senator Schumer. “From electric vehicles to artificial intelligence, so much critical technology relies on the silicon carbide chips that Wolfspeed will manufacture and perfect in the Mohawk Valley. Today’s massive investment will make America’s economy and our national security stronger as Wolfspeed helps us write the next chapter of America’s resurgence as the leader in the semiconductor industry, with the Mohawk Valley as the beating heart.” Schumer explained that Wolfspeed’s Mohawk Valley Fab is the largest and one of the only 200mm Silicon Carbide fabrication facilities in the world. Wolfspeed officially opened their new fab in 2022 and is actively expanding with approximately $790 million in additional capital planned investment in the Mohawk Valley which will help support new good paying manufacturing and construction jobs to the region. The proposed CHIPS investment would also support the construction of Wolfspeed’s silicon carbide wafer manufacturing facility in North Carolina. Nearly all of the wafers from Wolfspeed's new facility in Siler City, NC are needed and sent to the Mohawk Valley Fab to be finished and this investment is essential to ramp up chip production in New York. The proposed CHIPS funding will support the Mohawk Valley fab to increase its production capacity by approximately 30%. To achieve this increase in capacity in the Mohawk Valley, Wolfspeed will purchase and install additional tools & equipment in the Mohawk Valley, such as photolithography tools, ion implanters, metal deposition tools, etch systems, automation equipment and more that will be support by the Investment Tax Credit from the CHIPS & Science Law. The proposed $750 million in CHIPS funding will also help catalyze private capital investment of at least $750 million to support the company’s expansion plans. This injection of private capital would not have occurred were it not for the CHIPS and Science Act. Wolfspeed is the world’s leading manufacturer of wafers and devices made from silicon carbide, a compound which has favorable chemical and material properties compared to traditional silicon, enabling Wolfspeed’s semiconductors to be highly energy-efficient and durable. The silicon carbide devices manufactured by Wolfspeed power electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids, enabling extended driving range-per-charge, faster charging times, and lower overall systems costs, they also are vital for artificial intelligence and in military applications critical for national security. Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. said, “We thank Senator Schumer for securing $750 million in funding for Wolfspeed from his historic CHIPS & Science Law. This transformative investment will accelerate hundreds of good-paying jobs in Oneida County and further elevate our region as a leader in semiconductor production. As Wolfspeed enhances its capabilities, we look forward to the opportunities this brings for our workforce and our future in the Mohawk Valley.” Acting President of Mohawk Valley EDGE Shawna Papale said, “On behalf of Mohawk Valley EDGE, we commend the Department of Commerce for reaching a preliminary agreement with Wolfspeed to leverage more than $2.5 billion of investment including over $750 million in CHIPS Act grant funding. The growth of the Mohawk Valley Fab is hinged on the ability of Siler City to produce 200mm silicon carbide wafers to supply Wolfspeed's Mohawk Valley Fab. Thanks to Senate Majority Leader Schumer, this CHIPs announcement accelerates hiring towards Wolfspeed’s job target of over 600 employees and increases production capacity at the Marcy Nanocenter. This was a true collaboration across local, county, State, and Federal officials along with the leadership of Wolfspeed to make the dream of recreating American made manufacturing a reality right here in Oneida County.” Last week, Schumer announced Edwards Vacuum reached a $18 million CHIPS PMT to build its new $300+ million dry pump manufacturing facility for the semiconductor industry, the first of its kind for America, in Western NY. Earlier this year, Schumer also announced that Micron, which plans to invest $100 billion over the next two decades – the largest private investment in New York’ s history – reached a $6.1 billion CHIPS PMT funding agreement. In addition, GlobalFoundries in the Capital Region also reached an agreement for $1.5 billion in direct grant funding under his CHIPS & Science Law to support a $12.5 billion public-private investment over the next ten plus years to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in Malta, NY. Schumer added, “The CHIPS & Science Law keeps helping grow the booming semiconductor industry in Upstate NY. We are seeing more targeted federal investment than ever before to bring back manufacturing, and awards like this show how the I-90 corridor from Buffalo to Syracuse to Utica to Albany truly is becoming America’s semiconductor superhighway.” Schumer has long worked to position the Mohawk Valley for semiconductor investment. In addition to his efforts on further recruiting chip suppliers to Marcy Nanocenter, Schumer secured $2 million in U.S. DOL funding for the Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison and Oneida Counties and Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC) to boost technical training to support the expansion and attraction of the semiconductor industry. Schumer also secured $2 million for MVCC to create a new state-of-the-art semiconductor and advanced manufacturing training center. Schumer is also actively working with Mohawk Valley EDGE to help lure additional semiconductor and supply chain companies to Marcy Nanocenter which will get a further boost from Wolfspeed and Micron’s expansions in the region. Schumer said, “Marcy Nanocenter is one of the most shovel-ready sites in the whole country and with this investment helping to strengthen Wolfspeed and with Micron rapidly establishing itself in the broader region, I am going all out to land more companies to make the Mohawk Valley a central component of bringing semiconductor manufacturing back to America.” Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. Micron has announced plans for a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab in Central New York. GlobalFoundries plans to invest over $12 billion to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in the Capital Region. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand their facilities in Onondaga County, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build their microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. In addition, Upstate New York is home to semiconductor supply chain companies like Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants. Edwards Vacuum is also moving forward with a $300+ million investment to build a dry pump manufacturing facility in Western New York, creating 600 good-paying jobs to support the growing chip industry in Upstate New York and across the nation. The PMT outlines key terms for Wolfspeed’s CHIPS agreement. To finalize the federal CHIPS agreement, the Commerce Department will now begin a comprehensive due diligence process on the proposed project and other information contained in the application. After satisfactory completion of the due diligence phase, the Commerce Department will finalize the PMT. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-stands-at-buffalo-police-department-discusses-anti-gun-trafficking-bill-getting-illegal-weapons-off-our-streets/,"Gillibrand Stands At Buffalo Police Department, Discusses Anti-Gun Trafficking Bill Getting Illegal Weapons Off Our Streets",2024-10-11,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Legislation Has Taken 3K Guns Off Our Streets And Been Used To Prosecute 6 Traffickers In Buffalo Alone Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand stood at the Buffalo Police Department to discuss the anti-gun trafficking statute in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), which was shaped by Gillibrand’s Hadiya Pendleton and Nyasia Pryear-Yard Gun Trafficking and Crime Prevention Act. As of this month, the anti-gun trafficking statute has gotten more than 3,000 illegal guns off our streets, including 1,000 confirmed within the last 6 months alone. In Buffalo, the statute has been used to prosecute 6 traffickers and seize 30 illegal guns. “Like so many communities across New York and around the country, Buffalo has been deeply affected by gun violence,” said Senator Gillibrand. “While we still have a lot of work to do, in the two years my anti-gun trafficking statute has been in effect, we have made tremendous progress prosecuting criminals and getting deadly weapons off our streets. I anticipate many more gun seizures, arrests, and convictions as a result of this statute in the years to come, and I will continue to work with my colleagues across the aisle to pass commonsense gun safety legislation.” Nationwide, the seized weapons included: 317 AR-15s and AR-style weapons; 478 machine gun conversion devices, which can convert semi-automatic pistols and rifles into fully automatic weapons in under a minute; 206 ghost guns, homemade firearms that are completely untraceable – and a favorite of criminals. The statute has also been used to charge 423 defendants in 33 states, plus D.C. and Puerto Rico, and to secure at least 119 convictions nationwide. In Buffalo, Gillibrand’s statute has been used to bring four cases against six defendants: Authorities arrested and charged a 28 year old man for attempting to smuggle weapons into Canada via Buffalo. Authorities seized 19 firearms, including 1 AR-style weapon. A judge sentenced a Pennsylvania man to 36 months in prison for illegally selling guns over Facebook Messenger in the Jamestown, NY, area. Authorities seized 3 weapons. A father and son from Niagara Falls were arrested and charged with gun trafficking after they allegedly sold several firearms to a law enforcement source. The ATF Buffalo Field Office and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office worked together to seize 5 guns from the defendants, including a ghost gun and two machine gun conversion devices. Two individuals were charged with firearms trafficking conspiracy after allegedly engaging in a scheme to illegally purchase guns in Pennsylvania and bring them to Buffalo to sell via Facebook. Authorities seized 3 guns during their investigation – 1 via an undercover purchase and 2 during the arrest of one of the defendants. Senator Gillibrand’s Hadiya Pendleton and Nyasia Pryear-Yard Gun Trafficking and Crime Prevention Act formed the centerpiece of BSCA’s anti-gun trafficking provision. Gillibrand first introduced the bill in 2009 after meeting with the family of Nyasia Pryear-Yard, who tragically lost her life at 17 years old when she was shot by a perpetrator using an illegally trafficked gun. Gillibrand worked with Nyasia’s mother, Jennifer Pryear, to pass the bill into law, and they attended the bill signing together in 2022. Today in Buffalo, Gillibrand was joined by Buffalo Common Council President Chris Scanlon, Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia, and WNY Coordinator of New Yorkers Against Gun Violence Paul McQuillen. “The Bipartisan Safer Community Act provides law enforcement with enhanced tools necessary to prevent gun violence,” said Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia. “The Buffalo Police Department is working very hard to remove guns that are illegally possessed from our streets. Enhanced background checks along with Extreme Risk Protection Orders are saving lives by giving law enforcement the tools to investigate threats of mass harm and racially motivated extremist hate crimes. While we are not looking to infringe on a person’s right to own a gun, we need to make sure we do all that is necessary to keep guns out of the hands of those that exhibit behaviors where they may cause harm.“ “The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, signed into law in the wake of the 5/14 shooting in Buffalo, is working,” said Congressman Kennedy. “It expands background checks, fights illegal firearm trafficking, and supports mental health and intervention programs that reduce gun violence. As a result, 3,000 illegal guns are off the street nationwide. Now, Congress must build on this progress to make our communities safer.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-18-million-federal-preliminary-chips-agreement-for-edwards-vacuums-plans-for-600-job-semiconductor-dry-pump-factory-in-genesee-county,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $18 MILLION FEDERAL PRELIMINARY CHIPS AGREEMENT FOR EDWARDS VACUUM’s PLANS FOR 600+ JOB SEMICONDUCTOR DRY PUMP FACTORY IN GENESEE COUNTY,2024-10-09,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer, Key Author Of The CHIPS & Science Law, Fought Tirelessly To Convince Edwards Vacuum To Invest In Western NY, Personally Calling Company’s President To Bring Edwards to NY & Celebrating Groundbreaking Earlier This Year Now, Funding Directly From Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law Will Support Edwards Vacuum’s Plans To Build A First-Of-Its-Kind $300+M American Semiconductor Dry Pump Factory In Genesee County, Creating 600+ Good-Paying Jobs – Award Is 3rd CHIPS PMT For A NY Project Following Micron & GlobalFoundries Schumer: My CHIPS & Science Law Is Helping Edwards Vacuum & Western NY Become Centerpiece Of America’s Semiconductor Supply Chain After announcing that Edwards Vacuum plans to build manufacturing facility in Western New York two years ago, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced Edwards Vacuum has reached a $18 million preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) funding agreement with the U.S. Department of Commerce under the CHIPS & Science Law he championed. This proposed federal funding will support Edwards Vacuum’s plans to build its new $300+ million dry pump manufacturing facility for the semiconductor industry, the first of its kind in the country, as there is currently no domestic production of semiconductor-grade dry vacuum pumps. “This investment will ensure an essential part of the semiconductor supply chain – that will be surging in demand – is made right here in Genesee County. I am proud to announce my CHIPS & Science Law is investing $18 million in Edwards Vacuum’s expansion in Western New York, creating the first dry pump vacuum manufacturing facility of its kind in America,” said Senator Schumer. “From Micron to GlobalFoundries, all the major semiconductor companies in New York and across America need vacuum technology for their chip fabs, that only Edwards will make in the USA. A historic $300+ million manufacturing facility like this, with over 600 good-paying jobs, was only a dream a few years ago. But I urged Edwards Vacuum to expand in Western NY because I knew this region had the potential to become the beating heart of America’s semiconductor supply chain.” Schumer added, “This continued investment by the Biden administration is proof positive the value of our region as a ‘Tech Hub’ and America’s emerging semiconductor superhighway. Today, Edwards Vacuum’s plans to expand in Western NY move forward. And that dream becomes one step closer to becoming a reality thanks to my CHIPS & Science Law.” Today’s proposed federal funding will support a planned $300+ million investment and 600+ good-paying jobs when the facility reaches full production capacity. Schumer explained all chip fabs need vacuum technology like what Edwards makes to power the sophisticated equipment and state-of-the-art machine tools needed to make microchips. Those tools need and use vacuum pumps, like those that will now be made in Western New York, to manipulate the chip wafers to manufacture the finished microchips. By bringing manufacturing to New York, new chip fabs such as Micron and GlobalFoundries in New York, and Intel in Ohio can have access to critical dry pumps that will now be made in the U.S., offering chip producers shorter wait times, improved responsiveness, and reduced CO2 emissions from an American-made product. This is the third agreement for a New York company from the CHIPS Incentives Program funded by Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law. Earlier this year, Schumer announced that Micron, which plans to invest $100 billion over the next two decades – the largest private investment in New York’ s history – reached a $6.1 billion CHIPS PMT funding agreement. In addition, GlobalFoundries in the Capital Region also reached an agreement for $1.5 billion in direct grant funding under his CHIPS & Science Law to support a $12.5 billion public-private investment over the next ten plus years to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in Malta, NY. Schumer added, “The CHIPS & Science Law keeps delivering for New York. We are seeing more targeted federal investment in this region to bring back manufacturing than ever before, and awards like this show that the I-90 corridor truly is becoming America’s semiconductor superhighway.” “New York State is a national leader in reshoring advanced manufacturing and research and this could not have been accomplished without the combination of the federal CHIPS and Science Act and New York State's Excelsior Jobs Program,” Governor Hochul said. “As a result, Edwards Vacuum is bringing 600 good jobs to Upstate New York, bolstering our semiconductor ecosystem, and setting the stage for regional success. This is proof that when we work together the sky's the limit, and none of it would be possible without the partnership of the Biden-Harris Administration, Commerce Secretary Raimondo and New York’s congressional delegation."" Schumer has been a relentless champion for expanding the semiconductor supply chain in Western NY. Schumer personally called Geert Follens, President of the Vacuum Technique Business Area for Edwards parent company Atlas Copco Group, to urge the global semiconductor supply chain company to expand in Upstate New York. Later that year Schumer announced with Governor Hochul that Edwards Vacuum had heeded their calls and planned to build their new manufacturing facility in Genesee County. Earlier this year, Schumer celebrated Edwards Vacuum’s groundbreaking ceremony in Genesee County for Phase 1 of their construction which is expected to be completed in 2028. Schumer last year also helped the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region win the prestigious Tech Hub designation through his CHIPS & Science Law and earlier this year secured a historic $40 million investment to implement the Tech Hub’s work with companies like Edwards. The proposal called the “NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub” has built on the historic investments Schumer delivered that have spurred a boom in semiconductor manufacturing and innovation across Upstate NY. Edwards Vacuum is working with Genesee Community College and Tech Hub partners like Monroe Community College, Erie Community College, and the Northland Workforce Training Center to help them hire and train hundreds of new workers. Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. Micron has announced plans for a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab in Central New York. GlobalFoundries plans to invest over $12 billion to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in the Capital Region. In the Mohawk Valley, Wolfspeed has opened a 200mm silicon carbide fabrication facility, one of the largest, with plans to further expand their operations. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand their facilities in Onondaga County, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build their microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. In addition, Upstate New York is home to semiconductor supply chain companies like Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants. The PMT outlines key terms for Edwards Vacuum’s CHIPS agreement. To finalize the federal CHIPS agreement, the Commerce Department will now begin a comprehensive due diligence process on the proposed project and other information contained in the application. After satisfactory completion of the due diligence phase, the Commerce Department will finalize the PMT. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-holds-roundtable-with-veterans-to-discuss-bipartisan-legislation-that-would-address-epidemic-of-traumatic-brain-injuries-in-service-members-and-veterans/,Gillibrand Holds Roundtable With Veterans To Discuss Bipartisan Legislation That Would Address Epidemic Of Traumatic Brain Injuries In Service Members and Veterans,2024-10-08,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Following a disturbing report showing that service members are sustaining crippling traumatic brain injuries as a result of firing their own weapons, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a roundtable with veterans at VFW Post No. 9587 in Staten Island to discuss the Blast Overpressure Safety Act, legislation to address traumatic brain injuries among service members and veterans. Service members who regularly fire heavy weapons are at increased risk of brain injury as a result of repeated exposure to explosions or blasts from their own weapons and explosives – otherwise known as blast overpressure. These brain injuries can cause depression, anxiety, cognitive problems, hallucinations, panic attacks, violent outbursts, suicidal tendencies, psychiatric disorders, dementia, and a variety of other serious health problems. At least a dozen Navy SEALs who have died by suicide over the past decade were later found to have suffered blast injuries, and many more service members have complained of health issues after blast exposure. Despite this, the Pentagon has struggled to properly investigate the impact of blast overpressure, effectively track the prevalence of blast overpressure-related injuries, or offer appropriate care to service members and veterans. Gillibrand is calling for more research and better treatment for those affected. Gillibrand was joined by New York State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton and local veterans. “After repeatedly being exposed to blasts from their own weapons during both training and combat, our service members are sustaining severe and crippling brain trauma,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This bill will require the DoD to investigate the prevalence and causes of these brain injuries; to track each service member’s exposure to blasts; and to help service members access care. This is a critical bill and I look forward to getting it passed in the NDAA.” “I want to thank Senator Gillibrand for joining us here on Staten Island for this veteran’s roundtable,” said State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. “It’s always an honor to meet with our veterans and discuss these important issues affecting them and their families. I look forward to continuing to work alongside my federal, state, and local colleagues to advance policies that support our veterans.” Specifically, the Blast Overpressure Safety Act would:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-statement-on-epa-removal-of-rochester-embayment-from-list-of-the-great-lakes-most-polluted-areas,SCHUMER STATEMENT ON EPA REMOVAL OF ROCHESTER EMBAYMENT FROM LIST OF THE GREAT LAKES’ MOST POLLUTED AREAS,2024-10-08,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"New York, N.Y. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer released the following statement on the removal of the Rochester Embayment from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s list of the Great Lakes’ most environmentally degraded areas: “I was thrilled to lead the charge and secure $9.5 million in federal Great Lakes Restoration Initiative funding to finally rebuild the Braddock Bay barrier beach that Hurricane Agnes washed away in 1972 in the Town of Greece,” said Senator Charles Schumer. “In the four years since its reconstruction, Braddock Bay has been transformed from a pollution hotspot into a thriving area with healthy restored habitats for wildlife and improvements that returned tourism, boating, and recreation to the waterfront. The Braddock Bay restoration was the last of 14 major pollution- and ecologically-impaired hotspots along Rochester’s Lake Ontario and Genesee River embayment coastline - from Webster to Parma - that have now been cleaned up and restored thanks to federal GLRI funding. The water is cleaner, birds and fish are more abundant, beach closures are down, and the Rochester coastline can now be removed from the EPA’s list of ‘Areas of Concern.’ I fought to secure a historic $1 billion for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law with moments like this in mind. Investing in the Great Lakes means investing in the future of New York, and I will always fight for funding so our community can enjoy the full natural beauty and economic energy of the wonderful communities along the Great Lakes.” Schumer has helped deliver nearly $14 million in federal funding through the federal Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) to fund eight habitat restoration projects, including $9.5 million for the Braddock Bay restoration project. Thanks to those projects, 275 acres of habitat and 30,000 linear feet of wetland channeling have been restored to improve connectivity and biodiversity in the bay. Schumer has been a relentless champion for the Great Lakes, including securing a historic $1 billion – the largest ever single investment – in the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) as a part of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law. Since its inception in 2010, Schumer noted, the GLRI has had a significant impact on Upstate New York. Schumer has long been a champion for the Great Lakes, fighting off budget cuts to the GLRI in 2019 and working to secure a multimillion-dollar increase in authorization levels for the program in 2018. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-the-anniversary-of-the-october-7-attack-on-israel/,Gillibrand Statement On The Anniversary Of The October 7 Attack On Israel,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement on the first anniversary of the October 7 attack on Israel: “Today is an incredibly sad and somber day as we remember the twelve hundred innocent people who were brutally murdered a year ago in the October 7 attack. These were grandparents, parents, children, and infants. They were young people at a concert, families building their lives, and advocates working for peace. My heart and prayers are with their families and friends. May their memories be a blessing. We must also remember that there are around one hundred hostages still being held by Hamas, including a number of Americans. While the situation remains extremely difficult, we must recommit ourselves to bringing them home as swiftly as possible. I pledge that I will not rest until they’re back home.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/with-millions-set-to-lose-health-insurance-or-pay-thousands-more-for-coverage-gillibrand-announces-legislation-to-extend-affordable-care-act-subsidies/,"With Millions Set To Lose Health Insurance Or Pay Thousands More For Coverage, Gillibrand Announces Legislation To Extend Affordable Care Act Subsidies",2024-10-06,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Subsidies Help More Than 1.5 Million New Yorkers Access Affordable, Quality Healthcare If Congress Fails To Act, New Yorkers’ Premiums Will Go Up By An Average Of $120 A Month or $1,440 A Year With critical subsidies that help over 20 million Americans afford health insurance set to expire, U.S. Senator Gillibrand held a press conference in NYC to announce the Health Care Affordability Act, legislation to extend these subsidies and ensure New Yorkers don’t lose access to affordable health care. Without an extension, these 20 million Americans will see a sudden increase in their health insurance costs and an estimated 3 million Americans could lose their insurance. Gillibrand’s legislation would permanently extend the enhanced Premium Tax Credits offered in individual marketplaces under the Affordable Care Act and keep health care costs lowered for all Americans. “Access to affordable, high-quality health care should be a basic human right,” said Senator Gillibrand. “No one should have to forgo treatment because they can’t afford the cost of health insurance. Allowing these tax credits to expire would needlessly jeopardize our public health and shoulder hard-working New York families with a financial burden many can’t afford. I am determined to get this bill passed and keep health care costs lowered for all Americans.” Premium tax credits (PTC) were established as part of the Affordable Care Act, which became law in 2010. PCTs are refundable credits that help eligible individuals and families – those with incomes between 100 percent and 400 percent of the Federal Poverty Line – cover the premiums for their health insurance purchased through the Health Insurance Marketplace. In 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) temporarily expanded eligibility for the PTC to additional individuals and households. It also lowered premiums for those who were already eligible. This enhanced PTC reduced net premium costs by an average of 44%. In 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act extended these enhanced Premium Tax Credits for three years. In that time, ACA enrollment has nearly doubled, helping more low-income households receive coverage and care. If Congress does not act to again extend the enhanced Premium Tax Credit, they will expire at the end of 2025 and millions of Americans in New York and across the country are in danger of no longer being able to afford their premiums. Gillibrand was joined by Sonia Sekhar, Deputy Director at New York State of Health; Mark Hannay, Executive Director of Metro New York Health Care for All; Veronica Smith, Senior Director of Health Policy and Government Affairs at Public Health Solutions; and Elisabeth Benjamin, Vice President of Health Initiative at Community Service Society.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/following-disturbing-reports-of-veteran-mistreatment-at-buffalo-va-gillibrand-kennedy-pledge-to-hold-vas-feet-to-the-fire-demand-comprehensive-va-wide-review-of-community-care-practices/,"Following Disturbing Reports Of Veteran Mistreatment At Buffalo VA, Gillibrand, Kennedy Pledge To Hold VA’s Feet To The Fire; Demand Comprehensive VA-Wide Review Of Community Care Practices",2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, following disturbing allegations of veteran mistreatment at the Buffalo VA, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a press conference at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 416 to discuss the failures at the Buffalo VA and to pledge to hold it accountable. She is leading a bipartisan push demanding that the Government Accountability Office conduct a VA-wide review of the Veterans Integrated Services Networks’ (VISN) community care consult practices to ensure that no veteran in New York or anywhere in the country suffers egregious delays in care again. Gillibrand was joined by Congressman Tim Kennedy, Amherst Town Supervisor Brian Kulpa, and veterans of VFW Post 416. “Caring for our veterans is our most sacred duty,” said Senator Gillibrand. “But the Buffalo VA failed to honor that duty and caused unimaginable suffering for Western New York veterans and their families as a result. This can never happen again – in Buffalo, in New York, or anywhere in the country. Today, I’m demanding a VA-wide review of veteran community care consultpractices to ensure that no one is slipping through the cracks. I am pledging to hold the VA accountable for its egregious failures last year and ensure that every patient has access to high-quality and timely care moving forward.” “This egregious neglect and failure is a betrayal to the women and men who have made incredible sacrifices to safeguard our nation. I join in requesting that the GAO conduct a full review of community care practices, which did not meet the needs of our veterans. I will not rest until the Buffalo VA has the leadership, staff, funding, and infrastructure—including a new state-of-the-art facility—to deliver the care that our heroes have earned and deserve,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “I am proud of the work my office has done to shine a spotlight on the unacceptable, and at times inhumane, practices at the Buffalo VA. This report confirms what we long suspected in painful detail: the Buffalo VA has failed in its mission, allowing veterans to suffer unnecessarily and neglecting to treat life-threatening conditions. Such failures are a grave disservice to those who have bravely served our country, and we are committed to ensuring accountability and meaningful change,” said Assemblymember Patrick Burke. “Thank you to Senator Gillibrand for addressing this important issue and her commitment to ensuring timely, effective and high-quality care for all veterans. I am honored to stand here today as our federal elected officials work together to address any failures in service, and take the necessary steps to do better going forward for all who served our country,” said Amherst Town Supervisor Brian Kulpa. “As a member of the military community, I know the struggles facing veterans when it comes to their mental and physical recovery and wellbeing. I want to thank Senator Gillibrand for putting a spotlight on this issue. We all need to come together to make improvements and assist veterans as best we can. Every man and woman who served under the American flag deserves the best care and resources possible, and today’s announcement is the right step in that direction,” said Amherst Deputy Town Supervisor Shawn Lavin. The full text of Senator Gillibrand’s letter to the Government Accountability Office is available HERE or below: Dear Mr. Dodaro: On Friday, September 27th, the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (“OIG”) released its findings following its inspection of the VA Western New York Health System in Buffalo, New York. The report – Leaders Failed to Address Community Care Consult Delays Despite Staff’s Advocacy Efforts at VA Western New York Healthcare System in Buffalo – found a shocking pattern of apathy and incompetence on the part of Department facility and community care leaders in addressing the needs of patients with complex and high-risk conditions. As the report indicates, these delays caused or led to an increased risk of harm to the patients. One veteran passed away while waiting months to receive palliative care that would have helped manage cancer pain in their final months. Another patient waited nine weeks to schedule radiation therapy for a new cancer malignancy, despite efforts by the chief of oncology to get the community care team to schedule treatment. Another veteran in their twenties continued to suffer from seizures for another 10 months as they waited for a consult to be scheduled, the delay partially caused by a referral being canceled by the community care medical director. These are only some of the cases highlighted by an OIG report that identified incompetence and bureaucratic red tape that failed the veterans in Buffalo again and again. The failure by the leadership at the Buffalo VA Medical Center must never occur again, and veterans across the United States must be reassured that they can receive timely and high-quality health care across the VA health care system. Therefore, I request that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a review of Veterans Integrated Services Networks’ (VISN) community care consult practices. The review should include, but not be limited to: Oversight of medical centers’ adherence to Veterans Health Administration (VHA) requirements for processing consults for conditions considered high-risk or complex; Whether consults are appropriately prioritized and consistently processed within VHA’s timeliness requirements; Reviewing how medical facility, VISN leaders, and the VHA Office of Integrated Veteran Care respond to concerns regarding delays in consult scheduling from providers, staff, patients, and their families and how this is built into VHA’s quality and risk management programs; Best practices to prevent and address leadership deficiencies within the community care scheduling process, including the prioritization of patient safety; I request a briefing on the preliminary findings with final results to be submitted on a date and in form mutually agreed upon. Please include recommendations, as appropriate, for agency or congressional action in your evaluation. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-visits-rush-henrietta-senior-high-school-discusses-her-legislation-to-provide-free-breakfast-lunch-and-dinner-to-all-students/,"Gillibrand Visits Rush-Henrietta Senior High School, Discusses Her Legislation To Provide Free Breakfast, Lunch, And Dinner To All Students",2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand visited Rush-Henrietta Senior High School to meet with school leaders and discuss her legislation to provide free breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack to all schoolchildren regardless of income. The bill would also expand access to free meals over the summer and eliminate school meal debt. Free school meals are associated with a variety of positive outcomes, including improved attendance rates and school performance, fewer behavioral incidents, lower suspension rates, better health outcomes, and reduced financial stress for students and families. Rush-Henrietta Central School District is one of many districts in New York State that is able to offer free school meals because of the federal Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). CEP reimburses schools in low-income communities for providing free breakfast and lunch to all enrolled students. In 2022, Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, advocated directly to Congressional leadership to expand Community Eligibility for high needs schools. “In the richest country on earth, it is unacceptable that millions of kids go hungry each day. I’m proud that so many New York schools – including Rush-Henrietta High – already provide free meals for kids, but we must do more. The Universal School Meals Program Act would provide funding for free breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack for all students nationwide and slash burdensome red tape for school administrators,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This bill would make our families and communities healthier and stronger, keep kids in school, and work to fight the stigma too often associated with meal programs. I look forward to passing this critical legislation so every child in the United States has the food they need to succeed.” The Universal School Meals Program Act would: Permanently provide free breakfast, lunch, and dinner to all schoolchildren regardless of income and put an end to burdensome application paperwork that poses a barrier to enrollment in meal programs. Increase the reimbursement rates for school authorities participating in the food and nutrition programs to more accurately reflect the true cost of providing meals. Reduce stigma associated with meal programs by eliminating meal debt and prohibiting school food authorities from discriminating against or overtly identifying a child participating in the free meal program. Expand the summer food service program and Summer EBT program by making all children eligible to participate in the programs. Currently, only communities where 50 percent of children are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch can operate a summer meals program; the Universal School Meals Program Act would make all communities eligible regardless of income. Senator Gillibrand is a longstanding champion for childhood nutrition. She leads the bipartisan MODERN WIC Act, which would make WIC benefits more accessible to low-income families by allowing them to certify and recertify for WIC services remotely. She also leads the bipartisan Summer Meals Act, which would provide meals to children and teens in low-income areas during the summer months when school is not in session. A summary of the Universal School Meals Program Act is available here. Gillibrand was joined by Superintendent of the Rush-Henrietta Central School District Dr. Barbara Mullen and Vice President of the Monroe County School Boards Association Scott Adair. “Food insecurity is a real challenge for many in our community,” said Dr. Barbara Mullen, Superintendent of the Rush-Henrietta Central School District in suburban Rochester. “This issue impacts many students, so the idea of expanding universal feeding is a critical area of discussion. With 5,400 students from incredibly diverse backgrounds, Rush-Henrietta would benefit from a national effort to expand access to meals. Research – and our own experience – shows us that students who are adequately fed are able to achieve and dream at higher levels. Our students are capable of so much, we want them to reach their full potential. This type of legislation would help school districts and local communities address the needs of the whole child, allowing them to flourish in ways that some of them simply cannot right now.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-rpi-president-martin-a-schmidt-appointed-to-commerce-departments-industrial-advisory-committee-overseeing-build-out-of-the-future-of-americas-chips-industry,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES RPI PRESIDENT MARTIN A. SCHMIDT APPOINTED TO COMMERCE DEPARTMENT’S INDUSTRIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE OVERSEEING BUILD OUT OF THE FUTURE OF AMERICA’S CHIPS INDUSTRY,2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Department Of Commerce’s Industrial Advisory Committee – Created After Passage Of Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law Which Boosted Domestic Semiconductor Manufacturing Industry – Provides Guidance To Commerce Secretary About Research & Development Critical To The Future Of America’s CHIPS Industry Schumer Says RPI President Schmidt’s Decades Of Leadership In Microelectronics Research Will Support America’s Efforts To Boost Competitiveness For Microelectronics Industry Schumer: RPI President Schmidt Is A Leader For Microelectronics Research & Excellent Addition To Committee To Boost The Nation’s And New York’s CHIPS Industry U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer announced the appointment of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute President Martin A. Schmidt to the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Industrial Advisory Committee (IAC), which was created by the original authorization of the federal CHIPS programs that Schumer pushed for and led to passage. The IAC provides advice to the Commerce Department on the science, technology, and workforce training needs of the nation’s domestic microelectronics industry, the national strategy on microelectronics research, the research and development programs and other advanced microelectronics activities funded through the CHIPS & Science Law, and opportunities for new public-private partnerships. “RPI President Schmidt is a leader in electrical engineering and microelectronics research, and I was proud to push for him to be added to the Industrial Advisory Committee so he can take on this leadership role in shaping the nation’s competitiveness in the semiconductor and broader microelectronics industries,” said Senator Schumer. “I wrote the CHIPS & Science Law with Upstate NY in mind, and I’m thrilled to see an Upstate NY leader recognized on a national level for his expertise and his experience tapped to position the nation and New York to lead the world in the semiconductor industry. RPI President Schmidt is an excellent addition to the IAC, and together we are working to invest in critical R&D programs and assets like Albany NanoTech and strengthen workforce development to boost America’s global competitiveness now and long into the future.” “Upstate New York has established itself as a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing, and I am proud to see one of our leaders bringing his expertise to the national Industrial Advisory Committee,” said Senator Gillibrand. “With the guidance of skilled engineers like President Schmidt, we can continue to expand American microelectronics manufacturing initiatives to ensure that the U.S. maintains a competitive edge for years to come. I am proud to have recommended President Schmidt for this role, and I know he will be an excellent representative for the Quantum Valley and all of New York on the Committee.” “Congratulations to President Schmidt on his deserved appointment to the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Industrial Advisory Committee,” Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20) said. “I consider myself lucky to represent a region that is such a strong leader in the semiconductor industry, from manufacturing facilities and R&D programs to our cutting-edge educational institutions, including Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. That’s why I pushed hard in the House to advance the CHIPS and Science Act and deliver the investments needed to supercharge our chip development, and why I called for the appointment of President Schmidt to the advisory committee. President Schmidt’s appointment further solidifies our region as a trailblazer in this growing industry. I look forward to working with him and Majority Leader Schumer to further drive innovation and job growth in semiconductor manufacturing.” “I applaud Senator Schumer and our entire federal delegation for their leadership on CHIPS, and am honored to serve on the CHIPS Industrial Advisory Committee and advise Secretary Raimondo on strengthening the U.S. semiconductor industry through innovative and strategic research and development,” said Martin A. Schmidt, president of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. “Having been involved in semiconductor research and education for my entire career, it is a privilege to represent the nation’s first science and technological research university in this endeavor, working together with industry, government, and other educational institutions to create new and promising opportunities in semiconductors now and in the years to come.” After eight years as the provost at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he oversaw the creation of the university’s Schwartzman College of Computing, Dr. Schmidt became the President at RPI. He is a leader in electrical engineering and microelectronics research, and as an inventor and entrepreneur, he holds over 30 issued U.S. patents and has been associated with starting seven companies. The Industrial Advisory Committee comprises leaders from a broad range of disciplines in the microelectronics field, including academia, the semiconductor industry, federal laboratories, and other areas. Currently, representatives from GlobalFoundries, IBM, Micron Technologies, Wolfspeed, and Applied Materials are among other members of the IAC. Senators Schumer and Gillibrand and Congressman Tonko previously wrote a letter to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo supporting the nomination of RPI President Schmidt to the CHIPS Industrial Advisory Committee. A copy is below: Dear Secretary Raimondo, Thank you for your ongoing efforts to implement the critical CHIPS and Science Act, including establishing the CHIPS Industrial Advisory Committee (IAC). We would like to recommend that Martin Schmidt, the President of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) be added to the IAC. Marty would be a strong addition to the group advising you on implementation of the CHIPS and Science Act. Some projections are that nearly 35,000 jobs requiring engineers, computer scientists and Ph.Ds will go unfilled over the next five years if we don’t change the trajectory of educating students at our academic institutions. As well, another 25,000 technicians with two-year degrees will be needed. Marty has the experience in this area and how to develop the diverse and inclusive workforce needed to fill these jobs in the industry. Marty is a rare voice that is fully grounded in science research, including semiconductors, and at the same time has extensive administrative and leadership experience. Marty holds a Ph.D in electrical engineering from MIT and was the provost at MIT and now at RPI, schools famous for making a difference in the world educating the technology workforce of the nation. As you move forward to establish new public-private partnerships and stand up the National Semiconductor Technology Center, the role of universities will become even more important to implementation of CHIPS. We would like to strongly support the nomination of President Martin Schmidt to the CHIPS Industrial Advisory Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-celebrates-ttm-technologies-beam-signing-as-company-moves-forward-with-state-of-the-art-400-job-expansion-building-one-of-the-most-advanced-printed-circuit-board-manufacturing-facilities-in-north-america,"SCHUMER CELEBRATES TTM TECHNOLOGIES’ BEAM SIGNING AS COMPANY MOVES FORWARD WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART, 400-JOB EXPANSION BUILDING ONE OF THE MOST ADVANCED PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD MANUFACTURING FACILITIES IN...",2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"New York, N.Y. – On the heels of delivering $30 million in federal investment for TTM Technologies earlier this week, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer released the following statement on today’s beam signing as the next major milestone for the company’s expansion in Central NY: “TTM Technologies’ new, state-of-the-art printed circuit board factory in the Town of DeWitt will be the beating heart of this highly in-demand industry for America. Thanks to TTM’s investment, more of this critical supply chain will be returned to America and soon more of this technology will be stamped ‘Made In Central New York,’” said Senator Schumer. “This new facility will bring 400 good-paying jobs to Central NY, ensuring the communities in Onondaga County that powered our country’s industrial past will be the ones to build its future and bring critical manufacturing back from overseas to safeguard our national security. I was proud to work hand in hand with Governor Hochul to secure this expansion and was thrilled to deliver a major $30 million federal investment earlier this week to fast-track this expansion and help ensure more of this technology is made in America and made in Central NY to support our military. From Micron’s historic $100+ billion megafab investment to TTM’s new 200,000+ square foot expansion, it is becoming clearer every day that Central New York is establishing itself as the crown jewel of America’s semiconductor superhighway.” Governor Hochul said, “TTM Technologies’ choice of New York is more proof that our manufacturing sector is strong and growing. TTM is on the cutting edge of next-generation microelectronics technology working to develop a robust chips ecosystem with state, federal and local stakeholders. This project will see this successful company create up to 400 good-paying manufacturing jobs Upstate. TTM’s continued commitment is reinforcing New York’s reputation as a leader for growth, innovation, and national security, and I thank them for helping us to continue to build the economy of tomorrow.” Schumer had pushed for TTM’s expansion in Central NY, personally calling the CEO last year, which resulted in TTM selecting Syracuse for their major 400 job expansion out of over a dozen other states, with the company also citing the federal Tech Hub designation Schumer created in his CHIPS & Science Law and recently landed for the Syracuse-Rochester Buffalo Region as one of the deciding factors for selecting the region for their final investment. Since then, Schumer helped the I-90 semiconductor Tech Hub become one of only twelve award winners, delivering $40 million from his CHIPS & Science Law. This includes major funding for workforce training initiatives to close gaps in upskilling, hiring, and retention, especially for populations that have been historically excluded from tech and manufacturing-related job opportunities that will help local workers get the skills they need for good-paying tech jobs like those at TTM. TTM’s expanded Central NY facility will be one of the most technologically sophisticated and largest advanced printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing sites in North America, with a highly optimized process to allow for shorter lead times, faster delivery, and a significant increase in domestic capacity for Ultra-HDI PCBs, adding to TTM’s existing Central NY workforce of approximately 600 employees. These Ultra-HDI printed circuit boards are critical to our military and a vital component of the microelectronics and semiconductor industries, which are also seeing increased demand nationally driven by Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-22-million-for-four-upstate-ny-communities-to-remove-lead-paint-hazards-from-aging-homes-senator-says-investment-will-protect-the-health-and-well-being-of-nys-children-from-toxic-lead-poisoning,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $22+ MILLION FOR FOUR UPSTATE NY COMMUNITIES TO REMOVE LEAD PAINT HAZARDS FROM AGING HOMES; SENATOR SAYS INVESTMENT WILL PROTECT THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF NY’S CHILDREN FROM TOXIC...,2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Fed Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program Will Boost Albany, Schenectady, Onondaga, and Chautauqua County To Help Rid Homes And Communities Of Lead Hazards Schumer Has Long Fought To Get The Lead Out Of Upstate NY – Securing Millions In Fed $$ To Remove Lead Hazards From Homes – And Latest Investment Will Boost Efforts Even Further To Rid Homes Across Upstate NY Of Toxic Lead Paint Schumer: Fed $$$ Is A Shot In The Arm To Protect Upstate NY’s Children And Public Health U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced $22,467,061 in federal funding for four cities from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program. Schumer explained that the funding will be used to address lead-based paint hazards, improving the health of children and families across Upstate NY in Onondaga, Albany, Schenectady, and Chautauqua Counties. “No amount of toxic lead exposure is safe for children in Upstate NY. Today I am proud to deliver $22+ million for communities from the Capital Region to Central NY to Western NY to remove lead paint from homes to protect our children and public health,” said Senator Schumer. “Lead poisoning is an irreversible, preventable tragedy that robs many families and children of their future. This major federal funding is the shot in the arm that these regions need to boost lead paint removal and prevention and protect the health and safety of families across Upstate NY.” A full list of awards can be found below: Organization Name Community County Federal Funding Albany Community Development Agency Albany Albany $5,000,000.00 City of Schenectady Schenectady Schenectady $3,967,061.00 Onondaga County Community Development Syracuse Onondaga $7,750,000.00 Chautauqua County Mayville Chautauqua $5,750,000.00 This funding builds on years of efforts by Schumer to help address toxic lead exposure across Upstate NY. Most recently in 2023, Schumer helped secure $6.3 million in federal funding for Broome County, nearly $4 million for Utica, and $3.3 million for Niagara County through the Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program to bolster ongoing efforts. Schumer has long been a driving force in securing federal funding to reduce lead exposure in New York. In addition to fighting lead exposure in paint, Schumer has also led the charge to increase federal funding to eliminate lead service pipes for drinking water in New York. The senator secured one of the largest federal investments ever into eliminating lead service pipes in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law, which includes a $15 billion carve-out within the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) over 5 years ($3 billion every year) for lead service pipe replacement. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), lead is much more harmful to children than adults because it can affect children’s developing nerves and brains. Lead-based paint, still encasing the walls of many homes, often erodes and settles on children’s toys on the floor, eventually falling into the hands and mouths of children. For children under the age of 6, lead exposure can result in developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral issues, which may lead to lifelong health and financial consequences. Schumer has long advocated for protecting New York’s children and families in the past by securing millions of dollars in federal funding to eradicate these toxic elements from homes in order to reduce lead poisoning cases. Lead poisoning can cause developmental difficulties, physical pain, and neurological damage. The purpose of the Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program is to identify and control lead-based paint hazards in eligible privately-owned housing for rental or owner-occupants. These grants are used to assist municipalities in carrying out lead hazard control activities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-74-million-for-rockland-county-to-remove-lead-paint-hazards-from-aging-homes-says-investment-will-protect-the-health-and-well-being-of-hudson-valley-children-from-toxic-lead-poisoning,"SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $7.4 MILLION FOR ROCKLAND COUNTY TO REMOVE LEAD PAINT HAZARDS FROM AGING HOMES, SAYS INVESTMENT WILL PROTECT THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF HUDSON VALLEY CHILDREN FROM TOXIC...",2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Department Of Housing And Urban Development’s Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program Provides Federal Funding To Rid Homes And Communities Of Lead Hazards Schumer Has Long Fought To Get The Lead Out Of NYS – Securing Millions In Fed $$ To Remove Lead Hazards From Homes – And Latest Investment Will Boost Efforts Even Further To Rid Homes Of Toxic Lead Paint Schumer: Federal Funding To Remove Lead Hazards Is A Shot In The Arm To Protect Rockland’s Children And Public Health U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced $7,400,000 in federal funding for Rockland County from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program. Schumer explained that the funding will be used to address lead-based paint hazards, improving the health of children and families across New York State. “No amount of toxic lead exposure is safe for children in Rockland County. I am proud to secure $7.4 million to help Rockland County & the Village of Pomona remove lead paint from homes to protect our children and public health,” said Senator Schumer. “Lead poisoning is an irreversible, preventable tragedy that robs many families and children of their future. This major federal funding is the shot in the arm the Hudson Valley needs accelerate lead paint removal and prevention and protect the health and safety of families in Rockland County.” This funding builds on years of efforts by Schumer to help address toxic lead exposure across Upstate NY. Schumer has long been a driving force in securing federal funding to reduce lead exposure in New York. In addition to fighting lead exposure in paint, Schumer has also led the charge to increase federal funding to eliminate lead service pipes for drinking water in New York. The senator secured one of the largest federal investments ever into eliminating lead service pipes in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law, which includes a $15 billion carve-out within the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) over 5 years ($3 billion every year) for lead service pipe replacement. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), lead is much more harmful to children than adults because it can affect children’s developing nerves and brains. Lead-based paint, still encasing the walls of many homes, often erodes and settles on children’s toys on the floor, eventually falling into the hands and mouths of children. For children under the age of 6, lead exposure can result in developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral issues, which may lead to lifelong health and financial consequences. Schumer has long advocated for protecting New York’s children and families in the past by securing millions of dollars in federal funding to eradicate these toxic elements from homes in order to reduce lead poisoning cases. Lead poisoning can cause developmental difficulties, physical pain, and neurological damage. The purpose of the Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program is to identify and control lead-based paint hazards in eligible privately-owned housing for rental or owner-occupants. These grants are used to assist municipalities in carrying out lead hazard control activities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-kennedy-announce-4-million-in-fed-funding-to-revitalize-north-tonawandas-payne-park-and-help-build-new-pool-and-aquatic-facility-for-wny-families,"SCHUMER, KENNEDY ANNOUNCE $4+ MILLION IN FED FUNDING TO REVITALIZE NORTH TONAWANDA’S PAYNE PARK AND HELP BUILD NEW POOL & AQUATIC FACILITY FOR WNY FAMILIES",2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Funding Comes From National Park Service’s Land & Water Conservation Fund, Which Senator Successfully Fought To Permanently Reauthorize In 2019 Schumer: North Tonawanda, Get Ready To Swim! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Congressman Tim Kennedy announced $4,084,000 in federal funding for North Tonawanda to revitalize the aquatics facility at Payne Park, including the installation of a new pool, after the previous facility was forced to close due to safety concerns leaving many families without a local pool option. “Get ready to swim, North Tonawanda! I’m thrilled to announce $4+ million is headed to revitalize Payne Park and help bring swimming and summer fun back to this community,” said Senator Schumer. “The Memorial Pool Redevelopment project will create a new aquatics facility, including a new pool, for our children and families to enjoy during the hot summer months. I fought to permanently reauthorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund and I’m thrilled that today the program is delivering this federal funding to support the North Tonawanda community.” “This funding will transform Payne Park for generations of families in North Tonawanda and beyond,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “This project will provide modern aquatic facilities for children to take swim lessons and for members of the community to enjoy our beautiful Western New York summers. This is one more example of the positive impact that federal investment has on people’s lives, boosting quality of life and creating more livable and equitable neighborhoods.” “We are incredibly grateful to the National Parks Service for awarding North Tonawanda $4.1 million toward our new $8.2 million Payne Park Pool,” said North Tonawanda Mayor Austin Tylec. “This project is a major step in improving our community spaces for families and future generations. I want to extend a special thank you to Senator Chuck Schumer for his strong support and to the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation for their valuable partnership. Their efforts have been key in bringing this vision to life for our city.” The funding comes from the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which Schumer successfully pushed to permanently reauthorize. North Tonawanda’s historic Payne Park’s Memorial Pool was closed indefinitely in 2023 due to deteriorating conditions and safety concerns, but with this funding, North Tonawanda can develop a new aquatics facility, including a lap pool, a new pool deck, shade structures, and other site and safety improvements. This new facility will modernize the Memorial Pool, improve safety, and provide the community with a centrally-located area to enjoy water activities. The funding comes through the National Park Service’s Outdoor Recreation Legacy grant program, which is funded through the LWCF. In 2019, Schumer successfully fought to permanently reauthorize the program which has invested more than $336 million in funding to protect public lands, water resources, and historic sites across New York State. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-94-million-to-help-small-businesses-grow-and-tap-into-the-booming-semiconductor-supply-chain-across-upstate-ny,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $9.4 MILLION TO HELP SMALL BUSINESSES GROW & TAP INTO THE BOOMING SEMICONDUCTOR SUPPLY CHAIN ACROSS UPSTATE NY,2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Funding Will Help Grow NY’s Semiconductor Supply Chain By Providing Technical Assistance To Small Businesses Growing In The Semiconductor Industry Across Upstate NY Supporting Ongoing Work With The Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse Tech Hub, Mohawk Valley Edge, The Capital Region CEG & Empire State Development Schumer: Fed $$$ Will Supercharge Upstate NY’s Growing Semiconductor Superhighway! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced New York State has been awarded $9.4 million, with $1.5 million in matching funds from Empire State Development (ESD), to help small businesses across Upstate NY tap into and grow in the semiconductor and microelectronics industries. Schumer said this new program will help maximize the local impact of the billions in investment we are seeing across Upstate NY from companies like Micron, GlobalFoundries, and Wolfspeed thanks to his CHIPS & Science Law by breaking down barriers to help small businesses enter and expand into the semiconductor supply chain. “Small businesses across Upstate NY want to enter the booming semiconductor industry, but they can’t do it alone. This major $9.4 million in federal funding will help provide critical technical assistance to boost effort to make it happen. This is how we maximize the benefit of companies like Micron, GlobalFoundries, and Wolfspeed’s expansions in Upstate NY, helping existing businesses grow and adapt to lead in the next frontier of technology. This will help boost efforts along the I-90 Tech Hub I secured and help Upstate NY build a robust supply chain from Buffalo to Utica to Albany that further positions the region as a global center for chip manufacturing,” said Senator Schumer. “I fought to secure historic funding for the State Small Business Credit Initiative in the American Rescue Plan and urged Secretary Yellen to prioritize funding for supply chain development, including in the semiconductor industry, because I know that support for small businesses is critical to our efforts to bringing manufacturing back home to America. Today’s federal investment further supercharges Upstate NY’s growing semiconductor superhighway!” With this funding, New York will implement the Semiconductor Growth Access Program (SGAP). The program will provide technical assistance – including legal, financial, and accounting services – to existing small businesses to grow in or pivot to the semiconductor and microelectronic supply chain. This will help those businesses upgrade and expand their equipment, building a chip manufacturing cluster across Upstate New York. Additionally, SGAP will create a shared regional purchasing roundtable of large manufacturers and tier 1 suppliers, designed to provide regular access to purchasing opportunities for participating businesses. The SGAP program will work alongside the Supply Chain Activation Network (SCAN), a project of the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse NY SMART-I Corridor Tech Hub, which Schumer fought to secure and has already delivered $40 million of federal funding to support. It will also support critical semiconductor supply chain growth with partners at the Mohawk Valley Economic Development Growth Enterprises Corporation (EDGE), and the Capital Region Center for Economic Growth (CEG). “New York has become a global leader in high-tech manufacturing – and we're just getting started,” Governor Hochul said. “This $9.4 million investment from the State Small Business Credit Initiative will be critical as we work to connect underserved and very small businesses with the resources they need to succeed. Working with the Biden-Harris Administration, we're creating even more jobs and opportunities for all New Yorkers.” Schumer previously led 15 senators in urging U.S. Department of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to use State and Small Business Credit Initiative funding to bring manufacturing back to the United States to strengthen domestic supply chains, including in the semiconductor industry. The American Rescue Plan Act reauthorized and expanded SSBCI, which provides nearly $10 billion to support small businesses and empower them to access the capital needed to invest in job-creating opportunities. Schumer supported state and local capital and technical assistance initiatives for small businesses to rebuild the economy coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. Micron has announced plans for a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab in Central New York with the support of an over $6 billion preliminary CHIPS agreement. GlobalFoundries plans to invest over $12 billion to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in the Capital Region, with support of a $1.5 billion preliminary CHIPS agreement. Wolfspeed has opened the first, largest, and only 200mm silicon carbide fabrication facility in the world in the Mohawk Valley, with plans to further expand their operations. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand their facilities in Onondaga County, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build their microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. In addition, Upstate New York is home to semiconductor supply chain companies like Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants, and following Schumer’s advocacy, Edwards Vacuum has announced a $300+ million investment to build a dry pump manufacturing facility, creating 600 good-paying jobs to support the growing chip industry in Western New York. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-irans-missile-attack-on-israel/,Gillibrand Statement On Iran’s Missile Attack On Israel,2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Addressing Iran’s ballistic missile attack against Israel, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, issued the following statement: “The United States stands ready to help defend Israel against these Iranian missile attacks. We stand with the Israeli people in this moment and our support is ironclad.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-delivers-major-30-million-fed-investment-for-syracuses-ttm-technologies-to-create-secure-supply-chain-of-advanced-printed-circuit-boards-for-americas-defense-and-semiconductor-industries,SCHUMER DELIVERS MAJOR $30 MILLION FED INVESTMENT FOR SYRACUSE’S TTM TECHNOLOGIES TO CREATE SECURE SUPPLY CHAIN OF ADVANCED PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARDS FOR AMERICA’S DEFENSE & SEMICONDUCTOR INDUSTRIES,2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"TTM Last Year Announced Plans To Create Up To 400 New, Good-Paying Jobs In Central NY, Citing Tech-Hub Designation Schumer Secured And Increased Demand From His CHIPS & Science Law For Printed Circuit Boards, Which Are Vital To Chip Industry & National Security Now With TTM Recently Breaking Ground, Schumer Has Secured A Major Investment From The Department Of Defense To Bolster TTM’s Growth By Boosting Their CNY Expansion To Make Advanced Printed Circuit Boards For The Defense Industry—Which Right Now Are Overwhelmingly Made Overseas Schumer: TTM’s Major Expansion In Syracuse Puts Region At Heart Of Advanced Circuit Board Production For America’s Chip Industry & National Security After helping land TTM’s major expansion in Central NY last year, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced that following his advocacy, the Department of Defense (DoD) has awarded a $30 million federal investment from the Defense Production Act Title III program to boost TTM Technologies’ major expansion in Central NY to manufacture advanced printed circuit boards (PCBs) that are critical to America’s national security. “We cannot have the printed circuit boards our military and chip industry rely on overwhelmingly made overseas. This $30 million federal investment will ensure the future of this industry, that is vital to America’s national security, is made here in Central NY by the 400 new, good-paying jobs being created by TTM. TTM is the largest printed circuit board producer in the country. Their technology is state-of-the-art, and the DoD’s investment in Central NY-made advanced printed circuit boards will make our supply chains more secure,” said Senator Schumer. “With TTM recently breaking ground, this $30 million could not come at a better time to accelerate their growth and meet this pressing national security need. When I wrote my CHIPS & Science Law, I did so with the vision that all the critical components of the supply chain for this revolutionary technology would be stamped 'Made in New York' – and week after week we are seeing critical federal agencies and the private sector invest more in Central NY to make that a reality. From Micron’s historic $100+ billion planned investment to TTM’s new 200,000+ square foot facility, it is becoming clearer every day that Central New York is establishing itself as America’s semiconductor superhighway.” Specifically, this federal investment will enable TTM to acquire and install advanced manufacturing equipment and develop prototype designs for its new 200,000+ square foot facility, significantly increasing domestic production of ultra-high density printed circuit boards and bolstering supply chain resilience, in line with the 2024 National Defense Industrial Strategy. Schumer explained, “Currently printed circuit board manufacturing is overwhelmingly based in Asia, and America’s military and the semiconductor and broader microelectronics industries need to onshore printed circuit board manufacturing to better protect our national security and meet increased demand spurred by my CHIPS & Science Law. The $30 million announced today will help TTM accelerate its efforts to bring high-tech capabilities back to the U.S., creating a stable supply of secure, American-made, advanced printed circuit board and further positioning Upstate NY as an epicenter in the global microelectronics industry and Central NY and the I-90 Tech Hub as the heart of this growing industry.” TTM Technologies CEO Thomas Edman stated, “TTM is honored to have the support and leadership of Senate Majority Leader Schumer and Governor Hochul to help make a sound economic and national security case for New York State and the Department of Defense (DoD) co-investments in Syracuse. Our new state-of-the-art 200,000+ square foot facility will deliver trusted, domestically sourced advanced ultra-HDI printed circuit boards. The new facility will help fill the capacity void that the DoD is facing. We are proud of our 60-year presence in Syracuse as an industry leader for DoD customers and end-users.” Schumer said American companies, including defense contractors providing critical products for the military, currently have a greater demand for ultra-high density interconnect (UHDI) PCBs than domestic producers can supply. The senator said this presents national security risks, making it critical that the United States develop the capability to manufacture Ultra-HDI PCBs at-scale as soon as possible. In 2023, President Biden signed a presidential determination authorizing the use of Defense Production Act to support the nation’s domestic Printed Circuit Boards and Advanced Packaging industrial base, which allows the Department of Defense (DoD) to utilize its Defense Production Act (DPA) Title III authorities to invest in expansions of these industries to ensure America remains on the cutting-edge of this technology. TTM’s expansion in Central NY will help uniquely address this gap, establishing a stable supply of secure, domestically produced, advanced PCBs needed to safeguard the country’s national security. Schumer advocated directly to Secretary of Defense Austin with letters of support highlighting TTM’s project and personally called Secretary Austin to make the case for the need to fund this critical national security project, emphasizing the importance of the funding to the overall success of TTM’s expansion in Central New York and their growing supply of technology that the DoD relies on. Schumer also successfully pushed in the Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations bill to deliver an increase in overall funding for the DPA Title III program to help ensure TTM and other critical national security projects could be considered for awards. Schumer had pushed for TTM’s expansion in Central NY, personally calling the CEO last year, which resulted in TTM selecting Syracuse for their major 400 job expansion out of over a dozen other states, with the company also citing the federal Tech Hub designation Schumer created in his CHIPS & Science Law and recently landed for the Syracuse-Rochester Buffalo Region as one of the deciding factors for selecting the region for their final investment. Since then, Schumer helped the I-90 semiconductor Tech Hub become one of only twelve award winners, delivering $40 million from his CHIPS & Science Law. This includes major funding for workforce training initiatives to close gaps in upskilling, hiring, and retention, especially for populations that have been historically excluded from tech and manufacturing-related job opportunities that will help local workers get the skills they need for good-paying tech jobs like those at TTM. TTM’s expanded Central NY facility will be one of the most technologically advanced and largest PCB manufacturing sites in North America, with a highly optimized process to allow for shorter lead times, faster delivery, and a significant increase in domestic capacity for Ultra-HDI PCBs, adding to TTM’s existing Central NY workforce of approximately 600 employees. These Ultra-HDI printed circuit boards are a vital component of the microelectronics and semiconductor industries, which are also seeing increased demand nationally driven by Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-with-upstate-ny-seeing-major-uptick-in-deadly-mosquito-borne-illnesses-including-first-human-eeev-fatality-in-ny-in-years-and-multiple-horse-cases-in-the-capital-region-senator-launches-two-pronged-push-to-boost-coordination-with-feds-and-increase-funds-to-beat-back-bug_diseases,"SCHUMER: WITH UPSTATE NY SEEING MAJOR UPTICK IN DEADLY MOSQUITO-BORNE ILLNESSES, INCLUDING FIRST HUMAN EEEV FATALITY IN NY IN YEARS, & MULTIPLE HORSE CASES IN THE CAPITAL REGION; SENATOR LAUNCHES...",2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"First Human EEEV Fatality Just Hit NYS Since 2015 & Now Schumer Says EEEV, West Nile And Mosquito-Borne Illnesses Are Going Later Into The Fall– Infecting Horses & Other Animals In Washington, Rensselaer & Saratoga County Which Last Week Had To Euthanize A Horse, Risking The Capital Region’s Critical Equine & Horse Racing Industry Schumer Calls On Feds To Increase Coordination To Identify & Monitor Mosquitoes, Pushes To Increase CDC “Vector” Funds To Target Mosquito Pools, Educate Public & Beat Back Diseases Endangering Residents Schumer: Recent Mosquito-Borne EEEV Cases Show Feds Must Boost Efforts To Track & Zap NY’s Mosquito Population To Keep Capital Region Safe With growing concern for mosquito-borne illness across New York State following the first human death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEEV) in nearly a decade, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today stood at the Glens Falls Hospital and announced his two-pronged push to combat what experts fear is one of the worst mosquito seasons New York State has seen in recent memory. First, Schumer said he is calling on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which works in conjunction with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to ensure coordination and outline a plan for working with New York State and local communities to survey and track mosquitoes. Schumer said it is vital the CDC and EPA make sure communities have the resources they need to deal with the new threats that the mosquito population brings, like the surges in mosquito-borne illnesses we are seeing and could keep seeing into the future if the trend continues. Second, Schumer said he is pushing to surge funding for the CDC’s Vector-Borne Diseases programs, which includes EEEV and West Nile, with $65 million in new funding and is critical especially as we see increases in these diseases due to changing weather. “Mosquitoes are buzzing this season, but folks here in the Capital Region have been fearful of more than just an itch. Across New York, we have seen an unsettling spike in cases of EEEV among horses and West Nile Virus, and tragically just last month we had our first death from EEEV in nearly a decade,” said Senator Schumer. “This mosquito season could last well into fall because of all the recent flooding and a very wet summer. Today, I am here to launch a two-pronged push to get the feds to step up efforts to support New York & local officials and surge the resources to zap these bugs and beat back these diseases before they spread.” Schumer explained the Capital Region has experienced a surge in EEEV and West Nile Virus (WNV) cases, with a horse in Washington County contracting the virus in August and a horse in Saratoga County being euthanized after contracting the virus last week, and the state fears that deadly mosquito-borne diseases may spread to more humans. Schumer said that the increase in cases among horses in the Capital Region is alarming. Two emus in Rensselaer County also died last month from EEEV, highlighting the necessity to boost federal resources to protect humans and animals from the deadly diseases. In addition, Saratoga, Warren, and Washington counties are home to 6,627 horses as of 2022, and the Capital Region is central to New York State’s $7 billion equine and horse racing industry. “Here in the Capital Region the equine and horse racing brings in billions every year, and surges in diseases like EEEV are a direct risk to that industry. Across Saratoga, Warren, and Washington counties we have over 6,000 horses. It is so important to ensure we are investing in tracking and combatting mosquito-borne illness, otherwise the health of our community and local economy could both be at risk,” added Schumer. “This is a serious threat and folks who enjoy hiking, hunting, fishing, and all the Adirondacks have to offer need to be aware and take appropriate precautions. We recently saw a case of mosquito borne viral encephalitis here at Glens Falls Hospital, so we know it is out there. It’s important to note that mosquito borne encephalitis has very similar symptoms to other viruses such as fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches – so watch for differentiating symptoms such as neck stiffness or confusion. We are grateful for the Senator’s efforts to raise awareness and seek additional funding,” said Sean Bain, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Glens Falls Hospital. ""Ensuring the health of our animals ensures the health of our farmers and agricultural community. Biosecurity and health protections are a prevailing issue for New York Farm Bureau as we work to maintain standards and operations at farms across the state. Animal health and human health are intricately linked, so additional resources to prevent the spread of viruses are not only appreciated – they are critical to New York's equine and greater livestock sectors,” said Deanna Fox, New York Farm Bureau CEO. EEEV is a rare but nonetheless deadly viral disease spread by mosquitoes that can affect people and horses. A man in Ulster County died after contracting the virus just last month. The NYS DOH has also confirmed the presence of at least eighteen cases of EEEV in horses across twelve Upstate NY counties as well as at least nineteen EEEV-positive mosquito pools. There have been 11 human cases of EEEV in NYS since 1971 and seven of those cases were fatal. Just last week New York State declared an imminent threat to public health for the rise in mosquito-borne illnesses. Schumer said given this major surge in mosquito activity it is imperative entities like the CDC and EPA engage to help New York State and localities to ensure they have the tools and data they need to keep the public informed and safe, and develop plans to combat spikes like this which often impact multiple states. The funding increase Schumer is pushing for in the VBD program would bolster coordination between academic institutions and state and local health departments to ensure information is getting to the community. Schumer has also written to the EPA, urging them to work in conjunction with NY state to ensure local governments, public health officials, and healthcare providers have a consistent supply of mosquito control tools and information to protect the public. The increase in funding would allow New York to access additional resources if the season intensifies or lasts longer than expected. For example, Schumer said the CDC in other large mosquito outbreaks in the past has worked closely with states to assist them with mosquito testing for EEEV and West Nile virus and can provide other critical access to data and resources for response to emerging threats. Schumer explained that the surge in mosquito populations and deadly mosquito-borne viruses like EEEV and WNV also endanger tourism, recreation, quality of life, and more for communities in Warren County, the Capital Region, and all over Upstate NY. Schumer said while there is no commercially available vaccine for EEEV or WNV, the best protection is to prevent mosquito bites and encourages New Yorkers to stay safe and closely monitor public health warnings. Schumer said, “Prevention is the best way people can protect themselves from exposure to mosquito-borne illness. When you are outdoors, consider wearing clothes to cover your skin and effective mosquito repellent.” You can find guidance on EEEV surveillance and control here and more information on how individuals can protect themselves here. You can find a copy of Schumer’s letter to the CDC linked here and EPA here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-with-upstate-ny-seeing-major-uptick-in-deadly-mosquito-borne-illnesses-including-first-human-eeev-fatality-in-ny-in-years-schumer-stands-at-suny-upstates-vector-biocontainment-laboratory-in-syracuse-and-announces-two-prong-push-to-boost-coordination-with-feds-and-increase-funds-to-beat-back-bug-and-diseases,"SCHUMER: WITH UPSTATE NY SEEING MAJOR UPTICK IN DEADLY MOSQUITO-BORNE ILLNESSES, INCLUDING FIRST HUMAN EEEV FATALITY IN NY IN YEARS, SCHUMER STANDS AT SUNY UPSTATE’S VECTOR BIOCONTAINMENT LABORATORY...",2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Following First Human EEEV Fatality In NYS Since 2015 When A CNY Resident Tragically Died, And Concerns Of Rise In EEEV, West Nile & Other Mosquito Diseases In Humans, Horses & Other Animals—Schumer Says Fed Research & Resources Are Key To Keeping Communities Safe Schumer Will Call On Feds To Increase Coordination With NYS To Identify & Monitor Mosquitoes, Pushes To Increase Vector Funds To Target Mosquito Pools, Educate Public & Beat Back Diseases Endangering Residents Schumer: As Changing Climate Causes Hotter And Wetter Summers Across NYS, Feds Must Be Ready To Help Track & Zap NY’s Growing Mosquito Population To Keep CNY Safe With growing concern for mosquito-borne illness across New York State following the first human death from Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEEV) in nearly a decade, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today stood at SUNY Upstate Medical University on the doorstep of the SUNY Center for Vector Borne Disease’s Vector Biocontainment Laboratory and announced his two-pronged push to combat what experts fear is one of the worst mosquito seasons New York State has seen in recent memory. First, Schumer said he is calling on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which works in conjunction with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to ensure coordination and outline a plan for working with New York State and local communities to survey and track mosquitoes. Schumer said it is vital the CDC and EPA make sure communities have the resources they need to deal with the new threats that the mosquito population brings, like the surges in mosquito-borne illnesses we are seeing and could keep seeing into the future if the trend continues. Second, Schumer said he is pushing to surge funding for the CDC’s Vector-Borne Diseases programs, which includes EEEV and West Nile, with $65 million in new funding and is critical especially as we see increases in these diseases due to changing weather. “Mosquitoes are buzzing this season, but folks here in Central NY have been fearful of more than just an itch. Across New York, we have seen an unsettling spike in cases of EEEV among horses and West Nile Virus, and tragically just last month we had our first death from EEEV since the last death of a Central NY-er almost a decade ago,” said Senator Schumer. “This mosquito season could last well into fall because of all the recent flooding and a very wet summer. Today, I am here to launch a two-pronged push to get the feds to step up efforts to support New York & local officials and surge the resources to zap these bugs and beat back these diseases before they spread.” Schumer explained that Central NY and surrounding areas have been abuzz with EEEV-positive and WNV-positive mosquito pools this year. With a surge of this magnitude, it is critical for federal, state, and local officials to work together to ensure that Central New York has the support it needs and residents are given the best information possible to keep themselves and their families safe from these deadly viruses. The Senator said it is particularly important for members of the community to be educated on where the hotspots for these dangerous, virus-carrying mosquitos are, to take precautions to avoid those areas and minimize risk of exposure to these pests. In Onondaga County, public health officials have warned the community about EEEV-positive and WNV-positive mosquito pools around the Town of Cicero and conducted aerial spraying to neutralize as many infected mosquitos as possible. Schumer highlighted the Cicero Swamp, which is notorious for its large mosquito population, as a key hotspot in the county causing local concern. In nearby Oswego County, public health officials have reported EEEV-positive mosquito pools around the Town of Palermo, Village of Central Square, Town of Hastings, Town of Albion, Town of Constantia, and Town of West Monroe, as well as WNV-positive mosquito pools around the Town of West Monroe, Town of Constantia, Village of Central Square, and Town of Hastings. Officials have warned that mosquito pools in areas of Oswego County around Oneida Lake, such as Toad Harbor and Big Bay Swamp, have tested positive for mosquito-borne illnesses. “With the Cicero Swamp, which is notorious for having a lot of mosquitoes, so close to Syracuse and the area seeing an unsettling spike in EEEV and West Nile cases among mosquitoes, we need to ensure that Central New York has all the federal support it needs to keep the community safe,” added Senator Schumer. Schumer said that SUNY Center for Vector Borne Disease’s Vector Biocontainment Laboratory is a one-of-its-kind research facility that examines the threat of vector-borne illnesses – carried by mosquitoes and ticks – on public health. Schumer explained that the laboratory is conducting critical research to study these illnesses and how they can be prevented and cured. Last year, the senator secured a $898,000 federal grant to cover some of the design, construction, and equipment costs associated with establishing the center. “Upstate Medical University has carved out a leading role in broadening the understanding and treatment of vector-borne diseases. From the work of Upstate’s Dr Stephen Thomas, Dr Adam Waickmen and Dr Saravanan Thangamani and others, along with our Global Health Institute and our Vector Biocontainment Laboratory, we are targeting these diseases with our research, especially as these life-threatening and debilitating diseases become more prevalent,” said Upstate President Mantosh Dewan, MD. “We deeply appreciate Senator Schumer’s leadership and partnership in addressing this significant health priority, as well as his stalwart support of SUNY Upstate and the Thangamani lab.” “ESF thanks Senator Schumer for his tireless efforts in Washington to ensure that we have the resources necessary to study, assess, and respond to emerging and persistent public health issues including Lyme Disease, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, and West Nile,” said SUNY ESF President Joanie Mahoney. “Led by the great work of Dr. Brian Leydet, ESF stands ready to partner with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the DEC, the DOH, our partners at UpState and local officials to assist communities throughout New York in doing the field work and analysis necessary to ensure that wildlife and the public are protected from these harmful illnesses.” Schumer explained that thus far in 2024, the NYS Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed at least 64 human cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) and 2,137 WNV-positive mosquito pools, including at least 12 human WNV cases, seven horse WNV cases, and 277 WNV-positive mosquito pools across Upstate NY. In recent months, state and local public health officials have confirmed multiple human cases of WNV across Upstate NY, including a Jefferson County man who contracted the county’s first WNV case in more than 15 years, a man in Wayne County who was hospitalized with WNV earlier this month, and most recently a man hospitalized with Clinton County’s first case of WNV this year. EEEV is a rare but nonetheless deadly viral disease spread by mosquitoes that can affect people and horses. A man in Ulster County died after contracting the virus just last month. The NYS DOH has also confirmed the presence of at least 18 cases of EEEV in horses across twelve Upstate NY counties as well as at least 33 EEEV-positive mosquito pools. There have been 11 human cases of EEEV in NYS since 1971 and seven of those cases were fatal. Just last week New York State declared an imminent threat to public health for the rise in mosquito-borne illnesses. Schumer said given this major surge in mosquito activity it is imperative entities like the CDC and EPA engage to help New York State and localities ensure they have the tools and data they need to keep the public informed and safe, and develop plans to combat spikes like this which often impact multiple states. The funding increase Schumer is pushing for in the VBD program would bolster coordination between academic institutions and state and local health departments to ensure information is getting to the community. Schumer has also written to the EPA, urging them to work in conjunction with NY state to ensure local governments, public health officials, and healthcare providers have a consistent supply of mosquito control tools and information to protect the public. The increase in funding would allow New York to access additional resources if the season intensifies or lasts longer than expected. For example, Schumer said the CDC in other large mosquito outbreaks in the past has worked closely with states to assist them with mosquito testing for EEEV and West Nile virus and can provide other critical access to data and resources for response to emerging threats. Schumer explained that the surge in mosquito populations and deadly mosquito-borne viruses like EEEV and WNV also endanger tourism, recreation, quality of life, and more for communities in Syracuse, Central New York, and across Upstate NY. Schumer said while there is no commercially available vaccine for EEEV or WNV, the best protection is to prevent mosquito bites and encourages New Yorkers to stay safe and closely monitor public health warnings. Schumer said, “Prevention is the best way people can protect themselves from exposure to mosquito-borne illness. When you are outdoors, consider wearing clothes to cover your skin and effective mosquito repellent.” You can find guidance on EEEV surveillance and control here and more information on how individuals can protect themselves here. You can find a copy of Schumer’s letter to the CDC linked here and EPA here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-appointment-of-ulster-county-sheriff-juan-figueroa-to-congressional-badge-of-bravery-review-board,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF ULSTER COUNTY SHERIFF JUAN FIGUEROA TO CONGRESSIONAL BADGE OF BRAVERY REVIEW BOARD,2024-09-30,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Says Ulster County Sheriff, A U.S. Marine Corps Vet And Former NY State Trooper, Will Be An Excellent Addition To The State And Local Law Enforcement Congressional Badge Of Bravery Review Board To Recommend Candidates To The Attorney General For Prestigious Award U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced the appointment of Juan Figueroa, Ulster County Sherriff, to the State And Local Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery Review Board. The State and Local CBOB Board established in 2008 is composed of nine members, including one member jointly appointed by the leadership of U.S. Senate for which the Ulster County Sherriff was selected. “Sheriff Juan Figueroa has been at the forefront of bolstering safety and community policing in Ulster County, and I am thrilled to appoint him to the Congressional Badge of Bravery Review Board,” said Senator Schumer. “Sheriff Figueroa – a proud son of Puerto Rican parents who grew up in the Bronx – was stationed in Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines during his service with the U.S. Marine Corps and deeply understands the importance of public service, courage and sacrifice. Sheriff Figueroa’s breadth of experience in various positions across law enforcement agencies makes him uniquely qualified for this role. I’m thankful for his years of dedication to keeping the Hudson Valley safe and know that his experiences will serve him well as the newest member of the State and Local Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery Board.” “I’ve worked with Sheriff Figueroa for years, both as County Executive and now in Congress, and I can tell you there is nobody more dedicated to protecting and serving our Hudson Valley community,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “Sheriff Figueroa is a public servant in the truest sense of the word, someone who has made it his life’s work to keep all of us safe. I couldn’t think of a more deserving member of the Congressional Badge of Bravery Review Board.” The State and Local Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery Board is one of two boards responsible for recommending recipients of the prestigious Congressional Badge of Bravery award to the Attorney General. The Law Enforcement Congressional Badge of Bravery is awarded to a law enforcement officer who has performed exceptional acts of bravery while in the line of duty. You can learn more about the award here. Sheriff Figueroa served for four years as an active-duty marine and an additional eighteen with the Marine Corps Reserve, became a trooper with the New York State Police in 1988. In his time with the New York State Police, he assumed leadership roles including Police Academy Instructor and Field Training Officer. He then served as an Investigator with the Bureau of Criminal Investigations for nearly two decades, where he worked on expansive cases and continues this mission now as the Ulster County Sheriff. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-1-million-for-chautauqua-county-to-develop-shovel-ready-site-for-attracting-more-employers-and-good-paying-jobs-to-western-ny,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $1 MILLION FOR CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY TO DEVELOP SHOVEL-READY SITE FOR ATTRACTING MORE EMPLOYERS & GOOD-PAYING JOBS TO WESTERN NY,2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Says Funding Will Create New Shovel-Ready Site In Ripley—Creating Economic Development Opportunities In Western NY By Attracting New Companies, Creating Good-Paying Jobs, And Bringing In Tax Revenue Funding Comes From The Appalachian Regional Commission, A Federal-State Partnership That Schumer Fought To Boost Funding For In Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law Schumer: We’re Building New Job-Creating Opportunities For Chautauqua County & Western NY U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer announced $1,000,000 for the Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency (CCIDA)’s Ripley Interstate Shovel Ready Site project to extend electrical service to prepare a 147-acre site for future employers. The funding is through the Appalachian Regional Commission, a federal-state partnership that Schumer boosted funding for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. “Chautauqua County is a prime location for economic investment, and this $1 million in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help build a new shovel-ready site in Ripley to ensure that Western NY can land new employers and good-paying jobs,” said Senator Schumer. “I fought to increase funding for the Appalachian Regional Commission because I know how important it is to create opportunities for economic development across Upstate NY. Now, this commission is delivering for New York, positioning the region to attract new investment that will bring employment opportunities and tax revenue to Chautauqua County and broader Western NY.” ""Securing this funding marks a tremendous step forward in the development of the Ripley shovel-ready site, a project that is vital to the future growth and prosperity of not only the local community but all of Chautauqua County. I want to extend my deepest thanks to Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer for his steadfast advocacy and to Mark Geise, our Deputy County Executive for Economic Development and CEO of the County of Chautauqua Industrial Development Agency, for his tireless work in bringing this vision to life. This site will provide new opportunities for businesses to invest in our region, creating jobs and fostering economic development that will benefit generations to come,"" said Paul M. Wendel Jr. Chautauqua County Executive. The Ripley Interstate Shovel Ready Site project, led by the Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency (CCIDA), received $1,000,000 to turn a large parcel in Ripley into a shovel-ready site. The project is expected to spur economic growth in Western NY by supporting CCIDA efforts to improve infrastructure, especially extending a 34.5 kv electric service to the site, providing necessary power to attract more employers looking to expand or move to Western NY. This improved site readiness will especially help meet an increased demand from manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing industries to grow in the region, partially spurred by increased investment from the Inflation Reduction Act, CHIPS & Science Law, and Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that Schumer pushed to pass into law. In 2021, Schumer secured $1 billion through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that he negotiated in the Senate for the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) over 5 years, increasing the budget to $200 million per year through 2026. The investment provided additional support for economic development, infrastructure, workforce, and other community development projects and programs to improve the quality of life and create new business growth and job opportunities throughout the Appalachian region of Upstate NY. The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is an economic development partnership agency of the federal government and 13 state governments, focusing on 423 counties across the Appalachian Region. ARC’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community, capacity, and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia. New York State receives an allocation of resources from the ARC each year to fund area development in NYS’s 14-county Appalachian Region. The New York counties are represented by one of three Local Development Districts: Southern Tier West (STW) based in Salamanca, NY and comprised of Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua counties; Southern Tier Central (STC) based in Corning, NY and comprised of Chemung, Schuyler and Steuben counties; and Southern Tier 8 in Binghamton, NY and comprised of Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Otsego, Schoharie, Tioga and Tompkins counties. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-northern-border-security/,Gillibrand Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Northern Border Security,2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Despite Dramatic Uptick In Unauthorized Crossings, Northern Border Security Strategy Has Not Been Assessed Since 2018 Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a virtual press conference on the Northern Border Security Enhancement and Review Act, bipartisan legislation that would update and strengthen security at the northern border. The legislation comes following a significant increase in unauthorized crossings in the last two years, which has placed serious strain on state resources. Additionally, a number of migrants have died while attempting to cross the border in winter. “Customs and Border Protection agents along our northern border are struggling to address a dramatic increase in the number of unauthorized border crossings,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This bill is a commonsense, bipartisan measure to give federal law enforcement and congressional leaders more data and strategic direction to address the situation. I look forward to getting it passed.” The number of migrant encounters at the northern border has roughly doubled over the past year. Officials reported more than 190,000 encounters in 2023, and apprehensions of migrants crossing illegally from Canada jumped 241% from 2022 to 2023. Gillibrand’s bill would help ensure that Customs and Border Protection has the data and insights necessary to address the increasing apprehensions along the northern border and combat illegal drug and weapons trafficking. Specifically, the Northern Border Security Enhancement and Review Act would: Require a Northern Border Threat Analysis to be completed every three years; Require that the analysis include an assessment of recent changes in the number and demographics of apprehensions at the northern border; Require that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Northern Border Strategy be updated within 90 days of the completion of the threat analysis, and have DHS brief Congress within 30 days. Senator Gillibrand introduced this bill along with Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND). It unanimously passed out of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs today.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-32-million-to-train-the-next-generation-of-semiconductor-workers-at-the-rochester-institute-of-technology-and-in-classrooms-in-schools-across-ny-via-his-chips_science-law,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $3.2+ MILLION TO TRAIN THE NEXT GENERATION OF SEMICONDUCTOR WORKERS AT THE ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY & IN CLASSROOMS IN SCHOOLS ACROSS NY VIA HIS CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW,2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"NY Received Two Of Just 7 Awards Across America To Jumpstart The National Semiconductor Technology Center’s Workforce Partner Alliance Program Which Will Help Get Students The Hands-On Training They Need For Good-Paying Jobs At Companies Like Micron, GlobalFoundries, Corning, And Edwards Vacuum Expanding Now In Upstate NY Thanks To Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law Awards To The American Federation Of Teachers Program Will Provide Training So Teachers Can Help Students Get Ready For Semiconductor Careers, Expanding An Initiative That Is Being Piloted In 10 School Districts Across New York State & RIT’s Program Plans To Help Over 500 Students Get Microelectronics-Related Skills Necessary To Thrive In The Growing Semiconductor Industry Schumer: We’re Training The Future Of America’s Semiconductor Industry By The Next Generation Of Workers Here In NY U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced $3,200,347 in federal funding to boost New York-based programs to prepare New York high school and college students for careers in the semiconductor industry. The awards include $1,720,400 for the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) to expand a program that prepares teachers in school districts across NY to help students get ready for careers in the semiconductor industry and $1,479,947 for the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) to implement a new online certificate program to train students across microelectronics-related educational tracks. “It’s all-hands-on-deck to build the workforce of the future and awards like today’s will help classrooms across New York get students ready to be the next generation of semiconductor workers. I am proud to have pushed for and secured this more than $3.2 million federal investment from my CHIPS & Science Law that will help students in New York and across America get the hands-on training they need to enter careers in the booming chip industry,” said Senator Schumer. “AFT’s program will provide training to teachers across New York and beyond so that hundreds of students at school districts throughout NY can develop the skills they need to thrive in the growing domestic semiconductor industry, and RIT’s program will provide training to hundreds of college students so that they can succeed in the thousands upon thousands of new jobs being created in New York in the semiconductor industry. This will prepare our students for good-paying jobs at companies like Micron, GlobalFoundries, Corning, Edwards Vacuum, and more as we see the chip industry expand in Upstate NY thanks to my CHIPS & Science Law. This federal investment in high-quality training is how we can support Upstate New York’s historic growth in the semiconductor industry spurred by my CHIPS and Science Law, and attract even more investment to the region by having a high-skilled workforce.” The AFT and RIT are two of just seven award recipients in the nation, and the AFT is the only recipient whose project focuses on K-12 students. The federal funding comes from the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC)’s Workforce Partner Alliance Program, which is funded by Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law. Schumer personally called and wrote to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and Natcast CEO Deirdre Hanford for both programs to be awarded this funding. Schumer explained that the AFT’s program will help expand their partnership with Micron to help students in school districts across New York, with plans to expand in Michigan and Minnesota, prepare for careers at companies that are vital to America’s semiconductor industry like Micron, which announced a historic $100 billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory megafab in Central New York. This award will boost the framework Schumer announced with AFT last year that will be piloted in 10 school districts and BOCES (Boards of Cooperative Educational Services), including Baldwinsville, Chittenango, East Syracuse Minoa, Liverpool, New York City (Brooklyn STEAM Center and Thomas Edison High School), Niagara Falls, North Syracuse, Syracuse, OCM BOCES, and Watertown. The curriculum framework rolling out now in New York classrooms aims to help thousands of high school students hone the foundational skills necessary for career success in the booming semiconductor industry, working with industry partners like Micron to equip them with the skills they need to enter these careers. “I crafted the CHIPS & Science Law with Upstate NY as my north star, because I knew that with targeted federal investments like this, the communities in Upstate NY that powered America’s industrial past could be the ones to build its future and bring critical manufacturing back from overseas to America. I’ve worked closely with the Administration to make the case for federal investment in Upstate NY’s R&D and workforce training programs, and I’m pleased that the Commerce Department and Natcast, which was created to operate the National Semiconductor Technology Center, recognizes New York’s premier work and leadership in boosting the nation’s semiconductor workforce,” added Schumer. RIT’s program will expand the domestic skilled workforce in the semiconductor industry with a focus on creating opportunities for disadvantaged and underrepresented workers to get access to the thousands of new jobs being created by new semiconductor industry investments in the U.S., including across Upstate NY, spurred by the CHIPS & Science Law. RIT’s goal is to train 555 students at both the bachelor’s and master’s degree levels through a new online certificate program to address workforce shortages in the microelectronics sector. “I want to thank Sen. Schumer for his vision around the CHIPS and Science Act and ensuring that investments in workforce development were part and parcel of this law, and for his tremendous advocacy for projects like ours that benefit students, educators and communities in New York. We are grateful that Natcast is recognizing, in its first ever set of grants, the promise and potential of these curriculum frameworks that educators, in partnership with industry, have authored through their union,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten. “What we seeded in New York will now spread as a model nationwide. These frameworks pave student pathways to the booming microchip sector and lead directly to good, middle-class jobs. They connect teacher expertise and student passions to career, college and life. And they’re anchored in our shared vision of real solutions that puts kids and educators at the center of the manufacturing renaissance happening right now across America.” “I want to thank Senator Schumer and the Biden-Harris Administration for providing this opportunity that RIT will use to address workforce shortages in the microelectronics industry here in the U.S.,” said RIT President David Munson. “Technology is driving unprecedented changes in the way we work. RIT is committed to fostering diversity and removing educational barriers for a new wave of highly-skilled workers, who will need to be analytical problem solvers with an ability to adapt to evolving career fields.” A copy of Schumer’s letter to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo about the AFT project can be found here and about the RIT project can be found here. Schumer has an extensive record of championing workforce development efforts for Upstate NY, particularly to support the growth of the semiconductor industry and broader tech and manufacturing sectors. The senator recently announced a major $40 million from his CHIPS & Science Law as one of only 12 Tech Hub award winners for the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region. This includes major funding for workforce training initiatives to close gaps in upskilling, hiring, and retention, especially for populations that have been historically excluded from tech and manufacturing-related job opportunities. Earlier this year, Schumer also announced that after his advocacy, a major $6 million federal investment by the U.S. Department of Labor was made for the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY) to expand Registered Apprenticeships for advanced manufacturing, including the semiconductor industry, to get workers the skills they need for these highly in-demand, good-paying jobs. Last year, Schumer also announced $5 million in DoD funding for Syracuse University and partners to expand microelectronics workforce training and connect job seekers with defense manufacturing and tech employers, as well as $2 million in DOL funding for the Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison and Oneida Counties and Mohawk Valley Community College to boost technical training. Schumer also secured $2 million for MVCC to create a new state-of-the-art semiconductor-and-advanced-manufacturing training center. Additionally, Schumer brought NSF Director Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan to Syracuse to meet with key stakeholders and see with his own eyes how Central New York is primed to be a global manufacturing hub and discuss how federal STEM training investment could support this effort. In addition, Schumer just last week announced $30 million in Department of Defense funding for the New York-based Northeast Regional Defense Technology Hub (NORDTECH) to boost semiconductor and other cutting-edge tech research & development and workforce training at Upstate NY universities and research institutions. This funding comes from the $2 billion CHIPS for America Defense Fund which Schumer helped establish in his CHIPS & Science Law, and helped secure Upstate NY’s spot in competing for as one of the first Microelectronic Commons Hubs last year, and will put Upstate NY at the forefront of cutting-edge tech R&D for the defense industry leading the future of this technology for America’s national security. Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. Micron has announced plans for a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab in Central New York with support of an over $6 billion preliminary CHIPS agreement. GlobalFoundries plans to invest over $12 billion to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in the Capital Region, with support of $1.5 billion preliminary CHIPS agreement. Wolfspeed has opened the first, largest, and only 200mm silicon carbide fabrication facility in the world in the Mohawk Valley, with plans to further expand their operations. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand their facilities in Onondaga County, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build their microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. In addition, Upstate New York is home to semiconductor supply chain companies like Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants, and following Schumer’s advocacy, Edwards Vacuum has announced a $300+ million investment to build a dry pump manufacturing facility, creating 600 good-paying jobs to support the growing chip industry in Western New York. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-32-million-in-fed-funding-for-binghamton-and-elmira-fire-departments-to-help-train-and-hire-new-firefighters-to-keep-the-southern-tier-safe,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $3.2+ MILLION IN FED FUNDING FOR BINGHAMTON & ELMIRA FIRE DEPARTMENTS TO HELP TRAIN AND HIRE NEW FIREFIGHTERS TO KEEP THE SOUTHERN TIER SAFE,2024-09-24,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Created SAFER Program, Which Helps Staff Fire Departments Across Upstate NY, And Along With AFG Is Local Fire Depts’ Main Lines Of Fed Funding; When Programs Were On Chopping Block Last Year, Schumer Stood With Southern Tier Firefighters To Push To Successfully Re-Authorize Program Funding Will Help Binghamton Fire Department Hire And Train 8 New Firefighters & Elmira Fire Department Hire A New Firefighter For Every Shift For Three Years Schumer: Fed $$ Are Helping Southern Tier Firefighters Staff Up! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer announced $3,202,296 in federal funding for the Binghamton Fire Department and the Elmira Fire Department to train and hire new firefighters in the Southern Tier. This federal funding was administered through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program, which the senator fought hard to successfully preserve and fund earlier this year. “Across the Southern Tier, brave firefighters risk their lives on the frontlines every day rushing to danger to protect our communities,” said Senator Schumer. “This $3.2+ million will help the Binghamton and Elmira Fire Departments train and hire new firefighters to keep the Southern Tier safe. I stood with firefighters across Upstate NY to push for the reauthorization of the SAFER program because I know how important it is for our first responders to be prepared. I’m grateful that the SAFER program is continuing to deliver results for Upstate NY and help Southern Tier fire departments staff up.” “The City of Elmira and the Elmira Fire Department are beyond grateful and excited to be awarded the FY 2023 SAFER Grant. With rising calls and additional strain on department resources, this grant will allow the department to add additional staff to operate safely and effectively. We are hoping to use the additional staff to add a rescue truck to our first due response. This apparatus would offer additional specialized tools and equipment, a quicker response, and cut down on wear and tear on our larger apparatus. I would like to thank Senator Schumer as well as many other local representatives that sent letters of support and who continue to support the FEMA grants to help local fire departments cope with new regulations, rising costs, and additional call volume,” said Elmira Fire Chief Andrew Mallow. ""This critical federal funding will allow the City of Binghamton to hire more firefighters, reduce overtime costs and strengthen the department. It's been many years since Binghamton received this kind of funding support for firefighter staffing and it will make an immediate impact on our community's public safety. We're pleased that Binghamton was awarded in a highly-competitive process, with a thanks to our federal lawmakers - especially Senator Chuck Schumer - for advocating to secure the resources our fire department deserves,” said City of Binghamton Mayor Jared M. Kraham. The awards include $1,836,624 for the Binghamton Fire Department and $1,365,672 for the Elmira Fire Department. The Binghamton Fire Department will use this funding hire up to 8 new firefighters and help bring their firefighter staffing closer to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, creating a safer environment for firefighters. Every year, the Department struggles fiscally with overtime and retirements and is constantly chasing staffing requirements. This funding will bring ease in their ability to hire. The Elmira Fire Department plans on using this much needed funding to add one firefighter to each of its four shifts for a period of three years, for up to 4 new firefighters. It has been over 10 years since the Elmira Fire Department secured funding from the SAFER program, and now they will be more equipped to assist the community. Schumer, who helped create the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) & SAFER programs, said that since their inception, these programs have delivered almost $700 million to firefighters across the Empire State. This includes $27,009 for the Elmira Fire Department and $68,181 for the Binghamton Fire Department announced in July for protective gear, training, and supplies through the AFG program. When the AFG & SAFER programs were on the chopping block last year, Schumer stood with Southern Tier firefighters to fight to save this program. Earlier this year Schumer announced they were successful and applauded the signing of the bipartisan Fire Grants and Safety Act, which extends the AFG and SAFER programs, to help keep firefighters and communities safe. Schumer explained that the AFG and SAFER programs have been a lifeline for fire departments across the state and have become essential to their continued operations. Fire departments, especially those in Upstate New York, often face budget shortfalls and extremely high costs that mean they cannot purchase the modern equipment they need to combat emergencies and keep firefighters safe. Schumer said that AFG and SAFER grants have positively benefited fire departments in every corner of Upstate New York. Thanks to Senator Schumer and his colleagues’ Fire Grants and Safety Act, NY firefighters will continue to receive the federal support they need to purchase lifesaving equipment and hire more firefighters throughout Upstate NY. The AFG and SAFER grant programs are both administered by the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide competitive funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to purchase essential equipment and help them increase the number of trained, “front line” firefighters available in their communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/in-rome-gillibrand-announces-legislation-to-address-epidemic-of-traumatic-brain-injuries-in-service-members-and-veterans/,"In Rome, Gillibrand Announces Legislation To Address Epidemic Of Traumatic Brain Injuries In Service Members And Veterans",2024-09-23,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Following a disturbing report showing that service members are sustaining crippling traumatic brain injuries as a result of firing their own weapons, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand visited Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2246 in Rome to announce legislation to address traumatic brain injuries among service members and veterans. Service members who regularly fire heavy weapons are at increased risk of brain injury as a result of repeated exposure to explosions or blasts from their own weapons and explosives – otherwise known as blast overpressure. These brain injuries can cause depression, anxiety, cognitive problems, hallucinations, panic attacks, violent outbursts, suicidal tendencies, psychiatric disorders, dementia, and a variety of other serious health problems. At least a dozen Navy SEALs who have died by suicide over the past decade were later found to have suffered blast injuries, and many more service members have complained of health issues after blast exposure. Despite this, the Pentagon has struggled to properly investigate the impact of blast overpressure, effectively track the prevalence of blast overpressure-related injuries, or offer appropriate care to service members and veterans. Gillibrand is calling for more research and better treatment for those affected. Gillibrand was joined by VFW Post 2246 Post Commander Will Ginter; VFW Department of NY Legislative Chair Ann Marie Hogancamp; VFW Department of NY District 4 Commander Matthew VanEtten; and Mayor of Rome Jeff Lanigan. “After repeatedly being exposed to blasts from their own weapons during both training and combat, our service members are sustaining severe and crippling brain trauma,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This bill will require the DoD to investigate the prevalence and causes of these brain injuries; to track each service member’s exposure to blasts; and to help service members access care. This is a critical bill and I look forward to getting it passed in the NDAA.” “The Blast Overpressure Safety Act is an integral piece of legislation to assist our service members and veterans and to take preventative measures for their health and safety,” said VFW Department of NY Legislative Chair Ann Marie Hogancamp. “Thank you Senator Gillibrand for pushing this bill and continuing to fight for our service members and veterans.” Specifically, the Blast Overpressure Safety Act would:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/in-white-plains-gillibrand-announces-legislation-to-address-epidemic-of-traumatic-brain-injuries-in-service-members-and-veterans/,"In White Plains, Gillibrand Announces Legislation to Address Epidemic of Traumatic Brain Injuries in Service Members and Veterans",2024-09-23,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Following a disturbing report showing that service members are sustaining crippling traumatic brain injuries as a result of firing their own weapons, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand visited the Westchester County Michaelian Office Building in White Plains to announce legislation to address traumatic brain injuries among service members and veterans. Service members who regularly fire heavy weapons are at increased risk of brain injury as a result of repeated exposure to explosions or blasts from their own weapons and explosives – otherwise known as blast overpressure. These brain injuries can cause depression, anxiety, cognitive problems, hallucinations, panic attacks, violent outbursts, suicidal tendencies, psychiatric disorders, dementia, and a variety of other serious health problems. At least a dozen Navy SEALs who have died by suicide over the past decade were later found to have suffered blast injuries, and many more service members have complained of health issues after blast exposure. Despite this, the Pentagon has struggled to properly investigate the impact of blast overpressure, effectively track the prevalence of blast overpressure-related injuries, or offer appropriate care to service members and veterans. Gillibrand is calling for more research and better treatment for those affected. Gillibrand was joined by Westchester Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins, New York State Assemblyman Chris Burdick, City of White Plains Mayor Thomas Roach, Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi, Director of the Westchester County Veterans Service Agency Ronald Tocci, City of Mount Vernon Director of Veteran’s Services Andrea Molina, and local veterans. “After repeatedly being exposed to blasts from their own weapons during both training and combat, our service members are sustaining severe and crippling brain trauma,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This bill will require the DoD to investigate the prevalence and causes of these brain injuries; to track each service member’s exposure to blasts; and to help service members access care. This is a critical bill and I look forward to getting it passed in the NDAA.” “With research showing an increased risk of traumatic brain injuries for our service members who regularly fire off heavy weapons, it is imperative we work together at all levels of government to start addressing the health implications they are being exposed to from the blasts of their own weapons. We know that doing so can truly save lives as blast overpressure has already been linked to the development of suicidal inclinations and cognitive issues,” said New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins. “The Blast Overpressure Safety Act will provide tools to investigate the scope and root causes of TBIs while also tracking service members’ exposure to blasts. The act will also promote access to care. I highly commend Senator Gillibrand for introducing this proactive piece of legislation, and I look forward to continuing to collaborate on initiatives to further protect our active service members and veterans who put their lives on the line to protect us.” New York State Senator Shelley B. Mayer said, “I am honored to join Senator Gillibrand in showing our steadfast support for our veterans, both abroad and when they return home. Traumatic brain injuries can be life altering and early assessment is critical to ensure that veterans have the resources and support they need to continue living life to the fullest. As a state and nation, we must do better to support our veterans.” “I am very pleased to see Senator Gillibrand’s support for the Blast Overpressure Safety Act,” said New York State Assemblymember Chris Burdick. “This is a great step in taking care of our active service members and veterans, who have already sacrificed so much for our country. As a society we are making progress in addressing traumatic brain injuries in sports, so it is not only appropriate but crucial that we also make progress concerning those who are putting their lives on the line for our democracy.” Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, “The brave men and women who serve our country deserve comprehensive care for the injuries they endure in the line of duty – that is the very least that we owe them. Traumatic brain injuries caused by blast overpressure are devastating and all too common, yet we’ve seen a lack of sufficient research and support for those affected. I applaud Senator Gillibrand’s outstanding leadership on this legislation. It is a critical step toward ensuring those we send to the front lines receive the care and understanding they need to heal.” “Our service members have sacrificed so much for our country, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the highest level of care when they return home,” said Westchester Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins. “The effects of blast overpressure are a silent threat, leading to traumatic brain injuries that can severely impact their quality of life. Senator Gillibrand’s legislation is a vital move towards better understanding, tracking, and treating these injuries.” City of White Plains Mayor Thomas Roach said, “Senator Gillibrand is known for her support of veterans and our service members. We as a nation have a sacred obligation to care for those who protect our country; therefore, requesting that the Department of Defense develop a process to track and provide healthcare for service members who suffer brain injuries from blasts of their weapons in training and combat is a critical and necessary next step. The citizens and veteran community of the City of White Plains appreciate Senator Gillibrand’s leadership on this issue.” Specifically, the Blast Overpressure Safety Act would:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-after-direct-visit-and-years-of-advocacy-rensselaer-county-has-received-critical-federal-high-intensity-drug-trafficking-area-designation-schumer-says-capital-region-will-now-receive-major-boost-in-fed-crime-fighting-resources-coming-to-fight-opioid-scourge-prevent-overdoses_stop-dangerous-drug-traffickers,"SCHUMER ANNOUNCES, AFTER DIRECT VISIT & YEARS OF ADVOCACY, RENSSELAER COUNTY HAS RECEIVED CRITICAL FEDERAL “HIGH INTENSITY DRUG TRAFFICKING AREA” DESIGNATION; SCHUMER SAYS CAPITAL REGION WILL NOW...",2024-09-20,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Stood In Cap Region In 2022 To Push For HIDTA Zone For Schenectady & Rensselaer County To Combat Overdose Epidemic, And After Delivering Schenectady Later That Year Now Secures The Missing Piece Of The Puzzle To Boost Fed Resources To Go After Drug Traffickers In The Cap Region Schumer: HIDTA Designation Will Help Combat Capital Region Overdose Epidemic With New Fed Tools To Cut Problem Off At Its Source After standing with law enforcement and addiction service advocates to call for increased federal resources to combat the opioid crisis in the Capital Region, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced that the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) has heeded his call and granted Rensselaer’s request to be designated as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). Schumer explained federal designated HIDTA zones help get increased equipment, technology, and additional federal intelligence resources, and now after working directly with law enforcement and addiction advocates this designation will help the community directly tackle the opioid crisis in the Capital Region. “The Capital Region, and Rensselaer County especially, have been devastated by a deadly spikes in overdoses fueled by the surge in drug trafficking and fentanyl on our streets. The data shows that Rensselaer is on the front line of the opioid scourge, and I stood with law enforcement and addiction advocates in 2022 to say enough is enough and I would not stop fighting to increase federal resources to keep our community safe. Now after years of fighting, Rensselaer County has been granted the critical HIDTA designation it desperately needs to get on the ground tools, increased intelligence, coordination and resources from the feds to stop dangerous drug traffickers and reduce the flow of deadly opioids across the Capital Region,” said Senator Schumer. “This will save lives. We must do everything we can to stop the opioid crisis from wreaking more havoc to public health and the well-being of individuals across the Capital Region and New York State, and this designation will help do just that. I’m grateful for the work of Rensselaer County District Attorney Mary Pat Donnelly for her leadership. Today marks a major step forward to finally reverse the tide of the overdose epidemic in the Capital Region.” “Rensselaer County is grateful to our federal partners for recognizing our commitment to combat the impact of illegal drugs on our community. The HIDTA designation will provide access to specialized resources in our fight against illegal drug trafficking and drug overdoses. I would like to thank Senator Schumer for his support and assistance as we continue to combat the opioid crisis, dismantle drug networks and provide justice for victims,” said Mary Pat Donnelly, Rensselaer County District Attorney. Schumer explained that Rensselaer County has seen spikes in overdoses throughout 2024, including three that were fatal over the course of two days earlier this year. Schumer worked directly with addiction advocates and law enforcement to fight to bring these additional resources to the Capital Region, visiting personally in 2022 to call on the federal government to address the major gap of the Capital Region’s largest counties, Schenectady and Rensselaer, not yet having the critical HIDTA designation they said they needed. Later that year, Schumer successfully announced that he had secured Schenectady County’s request to be designated a HIDTA zone, and today he delivered the same for Rensselaer as well. The HIDTA program funds intelligence-sharing initiatives, drug use prevention and drug treatment initiatives, as well as general support for programs that provide assistance to law enforcement beyond their normal scope of duty. Schumer explained that Rensselaer County has a population of over 160,000 people, including over 50,000 in the city of Troy, and that it’s central geographic location and close proximity to Albany make it an appealing and convenient location for drug traffickers. Schumer said that Rensselaer County’s HIDTA designation will directly support coordinated law enforcement strategies at all levels and will make more federal resources available to reduce the supply of illegal drugs, like fentanyl, in the Capital Region. This includes giving local law enforcement the ability to purchase key equipment, such as narcotics analyzers and other technology to combat drug trafficking at the ground level. Schumer also said Rensselaer’s HIDTA designation would strengthen treatment access by facilitating critical partnerships between public health agencies and law enforcement and grants can be used to purchase critical equipment like Naloxone kits for first responders to mitigate the number of overdoses and prevent deaths. These kits have been proven repeatedly to save lives, and in the Capital Region alone, their use has skyrocketed, proving the immediate need to increase resources that help expand the use of this equipment in reversing overdoses. You can learn more about the NY HIDTA program here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-continuing-his-push-to-land-new-ski-bird-fleet-at-schenectady-countys-stratton-air-national-guard-base-brings-national-science-foundation-director-to-us-capitol-to-build-support-in-the-house-to-follow-the-senate-and-include-upgrades-for-lc-130h-ski-birds-in-end-of-year-funding-agreement,"SCHUMER, CONTINUING HIS PUSH TO LAND NEW SKI-BIRD FLEET AT SCHENECTADY COUNTY’S STRATTON AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, BRINGS NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION DIRECTOR TO U.S. CAPITOL TO BUILD SUPPORT IN THE...",2024-09-20,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Made Major Breakthrough After Visiting Stratton Air National Guard Base Earlier This Year Securing $229M In Senate Approps, But In Order For $$ To Become Law The House Needs To Agree To This Measure, Which Is Currently Not Included In Their Bill Schumer Brought NSF And NY National Guard Top Brass, Who Rely On These Planes For Scientific Research And Maintaining American Competition With China And Russia, To Capitol To Discuss Need For New Ski-Bird Planes To Ensure We Can Continue Missions To Arctic And Antarctic For National Security Schumer: We Are The Closest We’ve Ever Been To Landing New Ski-Birds For The 109th Airlift Wing & We Need Everyone To Get On Board To Support This Funding After securing $229 million in the Senate’s FY2025 defense appropriations bill to replace the 109th Airlift Wing’s (AW) two oldest LC-130H aircraft, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer this week brought National Science Foundation (NSF) Director Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan and Major General Ray Shields, Adjutant General for the State of New York, to the U.S. Capitol to build support and describe the need for the House to follow the Senate and back funding to recapitalize the Ski-Bird fleet for the Stratton Air National Guard in Schenectady County. “Upgrading the 109th Airlift Wing’s Ski-Bird fleet based in Schenectady is critical for our national security and the National Science Foundation’s polar research mission. That is why I personally brought NSF Director Panchanathan and Major General Ray Shields to the Capitol to highlight the need to land new Ski-Birds in the Capital Region ASAP. Stratton Air National Guard and the 109th Airlift Wing is the only military unit in the world that flies these aircraft and they need the House to back up the funding I was able to secure in the Senate,” said Senator Schumer. “For more than thirty years, the old LC-130H planes have been in service in harsh environments, but now their state of disrepair is threatening aircrew safety and the 109th AW’s mission success. I landed $229 million in federal funding in the Senate’s FY2025 Defense Appropriations bill so now we need the House to follow suit. The brave men and women of the 109th Airlift Wing cannot wait, and I’ll keep fighting tooth and nail for the inclusion of this funding in end-of-year appropriations so we can finally bring brand new J model LC-130s to the Capital Region.” At the meeting Schumer convened at the U.S. Capitol they had a wide range of panelists who highlighted the tremendous need for upgrading the ski-bird fleet including: Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan, Director, National Science Foundation; Major General Ray Shields, Adjutant General, New York National Guard; Dr. Jean Cottam Allen, Acting Director, Office of Polar Programs at the NSF; Stephanie Short, Section Head, Antarctic Infrastructure and Logistics at the NSF; Jennifer Mercer, Section Head, Arctic Sciences at the NSF; Brig. Gen. Gary Charlton II, Assistant Adjutant General (Air), NYANG; and Col Steve Slosek, 109th Airlift Wing, NYANG. Then, panelists covered how the 109th AW’s Ski-Bird mission is crucial to both scientific research and national security, discussing the significant and immediate consequences it would yield if Congress fails to recapitalize the fleet and the aircraft enters restricted flight status. Now, Schumer and these top leaders are advocating for the House to match the Senate Defense Appropriations bill and support its inclusion in the final FY25 appropriations package. National Science Foundation Director Dr. Panchanathan said, “The U.S. National Science Foundation’s leadership in both polar regions not only keeps the U.S. at the forefront of critical areas of science and innovation, it also maintains the United States as the dominant global year-round presence in the Arctic and Antarctic. This would not be possible without the LC-130H aircraft and the brave and dedicated servicemembers of the New York Air National Guard and the 109th Air Lift Wing. Together, they provide a unique and invaluable service that allows us to reach the most remote parts of the polar regions. Without this capability, our leadership and presence would be at risk, and the world-class science we invest in, from glaciology to astrophysics would not be possible. I am grateful to Sen. Schumer, the New York delegation, and Congress for continued support to make sure the United States remains the global leader in the Arctic and Antarctic.” “Today Senator Schumer hosted a meeting and panel discussion to address the urgent need to recapitalize the New York Air National Guard’s aging fleet of LC-130H Ski Birds. The event included the Director of the National Science Foundation as well as key leaders from their Office of Polar Programs. Senator Schumer was instrumental in securing $229 million in the Senate’s FY-2025 appropriations bill. The panel and the discussion continued the efforts of Senator Schumer and New York’s Congressional delegation to ensure the critical mission of the 109th Air Wing and their vital National Security and science support missions have the aircraft required. We appreciate Senator Schumer’s steadfast support and commitment to our recapitalization efforts,” said Major General Shields. Schumer explained that with these planes quickly approaching the end of their service life—and following his successful efforts to authorize funding for the procurement of two new J model LC-130 aircraft in the Senate’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25), securing this funding in the final end-of-year appropriations bills is a national security priority for New York. The senator explained that the $229 million in the Senate bill will support the procurement of two LC-130J Ski-Birds, as well as essential engineering work to accelerate the design and development of the J model’s capabilities. Earlier this year, Schumer wrote to Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall to urge the Air Force to prioritize recapitalizing the LC-130H fleet and in April, he personally visited the 109th Airlift Wing—the only U.S. military unit in the world that flies these aircraft—in person to double down on the urgent need to recapitalize the LC-130H fleet and formally launch his push to secure federal funding for the procurement of two new LC-130Js in the FY25 appropriations cycle. As he explained during his visit and with the top leaders during the meeting he convened in the Capitol this week, this funding is critical for protecting U.S. national security interests, enhancing U.S. competitiveness with Russia and the People’s Republic of China (PRC), maximizing aircrew safety, and continuing to support cutting-edge research in the polar regions which includes finding solutions to limit global warming and combat climate change. “As I have repeatedly said, we need to ensure that we deliver new Ski-Birds for the 109th as soon as possible. Now that we’ve secured more than $200 million for LC-130H recapitalization in both the FY25 Senate NDAA and defense appropriations bill, the House needs to follow suit so that new planes can land in the Capital Region. The National Science Foundation and the NY National Guard both agree, and we are closer than we have ever been. ” added Schumer. Schumer explained that after more than 30 years, these planes—several of which were built in the 1970s and operate on technology developed in the 1950s—are rapidly approaching the end of their service life, jeopardizing mission success, aircrew and operator safety, and U.S. national security. Schumer said the airplanes often suffer reliability issues and high maintenance costs, with only five planes out of the ten total in the fleet being mission-capable at any given time. Additionally, nearly all of the aircraft in the fleet have parts that require total replacement, but the 109th AW is unable to make the necessary fixes because those parts are no longer in production due to the aircraft’s age and commodity. With both U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM), which oversees the polar airlift mission, and 109th AW, which supports the NSF’s polar science research missions and is the only U.S. military unit in the world that flies these planes, expressing the urgent need to recapitalize, Schumer took action to push for this major federal funding and upgrade the fleet to support U.S. national security and scientific research. The LC-130 is also a necessity for maintaining and strengthening the United States’ presence, operations, and research in the Arctic and Antarctica. The Arctic is a region of growing strategic importance, and to compete on a global scale, especially with China and Russia who are expanding their presence in the region, it is vital that the U.S. has the advanced capabilities needed to expand its presence in the region. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-10-million-for-university-at-buffalo-to-establish-new-artificial-intelligence-research-center-to-increase-literacy-rates-for-students-in-western-ny-and-beyond,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $10 MILLION FOR UNIVERSITY AT BUFFALO TO ESTABLISH NEW ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE RESEARCH CENTER TO INCREASE LITERACY RATES FOR STUDENTS IN WESTERN NY AND BEYOND,2024-09-19,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Says New Federally-Funded Center For Early Literacy And Responsible AI Will Help Students Improve Reading Skills Using Cutting-Edge AI Tools Funding Builds On Senator’s Continued Efforts To Elevate UB As A Leader In AI After Bringing The NSF Director To Campus Earlier This Year & Securing $20M To Create New National AI Research Institute At UB Schumer: UB Is Helping Power America’s AI Future! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer announced that the University at Buffalo received $10 million from the U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences to establish a new Center for Early Literacy and Responsible AI. The new research center will focus on harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to transform early literacy instruction for culturally and linguistically diverse learners in kindergarten through second-grade classrooms across the nation, including in Western NY. “The University at Buffalo is a leader powering technological advancement and AI innovation related to improving education. Thanks to this $10 million in federal funding, UB can establish a new Center for Early Literacy and Responsible AI to help kids in Western New York and beyond learn to read,” said Senator Schumer. “Earlier this year, I helped UB establish a new National AI Research Institute and open a new $20 million federally-funded National AI Institute for Exceptional Education to help children with disabilities learn to speak. That is on top of making the region a federal tech hub to build the area’s tech workforce. Now, UB can continue to use its top-notch AI research facilities to help the next generation grow and thrive and further position Upstate New York as a national hub for innovation.” The Center for Early Literacy and Responsible AI aims to address a critical need to improve beginning reading skills of students, with an emphasis on students from underrepresented and underserved communities. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, only 33% of fourth-graders achieved proficiency in reading comprehension in the U.S. in 2022, a shortfall predominantly affecting low-income, Black, Latinx, and other marginalized students. “As our community in Western New York becomes more diverse, this $10 million grant will empower the University of Buffalo to conduct AI research that will address the literacy needs of culturally and linguistically diverse students. The Center for Early Literacy and Responsible AI (CELaRAI) will create an equal playing field for the next generation of children across the country, including at Buffalo Public Schools and Erie 1 BOCES schools. I applaud the University as it continues to lead in AI nationally,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “This significant award from the Department of Education underscores UB’s longstanding national and international leadership in artificial intelligence,” said UB President Satish K. Tripathi. “In our Graduate School of Education and across disciplines, more than 200 faculty are leveraging the power of AI, all with the aim of contributing meaningfully to the greater good. By helping young learners thrive and setting them up for future success, we will transform the lives of children, families and communities in ways that transcend metrics. On behalf of our grateful scholarly community, I would like to thank Senate Majority Leader Schumer, a dedicated friend and champion of UB whose steadfast support of our university is enabling us to make a profound impact on the communities we serve.” “This award reflects the Graduate School of Education’s commitment to utilizing evidence-based approaches to addressing some of the most vexing educational challenges we face,” said Suzanne Rosenblith, dean of UB’s Graduate School of Education. “Acknowledging that AI can be instrumental in improving foundational literacy skills could be a game-changer in how educators and schools approach early literacy instruction and support. I am also especially proud of the center’s focus on the responsible use of AI, a priority at UB. We are deeply indebted to the Institute of Education Sciences for its support and confidence in this project.” “We believe that, with the right support, all students — regardless of their backgrounds — can succeed in literacy,” said Christine Wang, the grant’s principal investigator and professor of learning and instruction in UB’s Graduate School of Education. “Our goal is to create opportunities for all students, particularly those from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds whose educational needs are often not fully met by our education systems.” Earlier this year, Schumer brought Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan, Director of the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), to campus to cut the ribbon for the newly established, $20 million federally funded National AI Research Institute at the University at Buffalo (UB) and see first-hand how UB is leading the way on AI research. With the launch of the National Artificial Intelligence Research Institute, UB is spurring critical innovation for transforming education for children with speech and language processing challenges. UB is using AI to enhance our understanding of children’s speech and language development in order to provide early screening for all children and individualized assistance to children facing speech and language challenges while helping to address educational and workforce development needs. The senator said that the newly-announced Center will advance the next frontier of AI with cutting-edge AI research, securing for UB a leading role in developing the technologies of the future, growing the AI innovation economy in Western New York, supporting good-paying research jobs, and attracting further investments with a bolstered workforce to support new companies. Thanks to Schumer’s relentless advocacy and his CHIPS and Science Act, he secured the largest dollar increase in history for the NSF and helped deliver $20 million to establish the National Artificial Intelligence Research Institute at UB. In addition, UB has also been announced as the future home for NYS’s Empire AI initiative, a proposed $400 million consortium that will build a new AI computing center at UB to facilitate innovation, responsible research, and economic development, further positioning Upstate NY to be a leader in federal initiatives in AI that Schumer has been a leading advocate for, including the NSF’s National AI Research Resource (NAIRR) pilot. In addition, the senator said Upstate New York is not only advancing AI research and development, but manufacturing the chips that run AI, bringing jobs back from overseas, creating good-paying jobs for New Yorkers, and boosting the state’s economy. As part of the prestigious Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region Federal Tech Hub – which Schumer secured and delivered $40 million in implementation funding for earlier this year, Western NY will have investment for training a tech workforce and attracting the supply chain to further enhance Upstate NY’s semiconductor superhighway. Notably, the memory chips which Micron will be making in Syracuse are especially critical to AI development, along with the mature node chips GlobalFoundries makes in Malta and will be expanding production of to meet increased demand from industries like AI. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-announces-3000-illegal-guns-off-our-streets-a-direct-result-of-her-anti-gun-trafficking-provision-in-the-bipartisan-safer-communities-act/,"Gillibrand Announces 3,000 Illegal Guns Off Our Streets – A Direct Result Of Her Anti-Gun Trafficking Provision In The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act",2024-09-18,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"In Just Over Two Years, Gillibrand’s Statute Has Allowed Law Enforcement To Seize More Than 3K Guns Nationwide And 250 In New York Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a video press conference to announce a major new milestone in the seizure of illegal guns under the anti-gun trafficking statute in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which was shaped by Gillibrand’s Hadiya Pendleton and Nyasia Pryear-Yard Gun Trafficking and Crime Prevention Act. As of this month, the anti-gun trafficking statute has gotten more than 3,000 illegal guns off our streets, including 1,000 confirmed within the last 6 months alone. The seized weapons included: 317 AR-15s and AR-style weapons; 478 machine gun conversion devices, which can convert semi-automatic pistols and rifles into fully automatic weapons in under a minute; 206 ghost guns, homemade firearms that are completely untraceable – and a favorite of criminals. The statute has also been used to charge 423 defendants in 33 states, plus D.C. and Puerto Rico, and to secure at least 119 convictions nationwide. “While we still have a lot of work to do to fight the scourge of gun violence, we’ve made incredible progress prosecuting criminals and getting dangerous and deadly weapons off our streets in the two years my anti-gun trafficking statute has been in effect,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I anticipate many more gun seizures, arrests, and convictions as a result of this statute in the years to come, and I will continue to work with my colleagues across the aisle to pass commonsense gun safety legislation.” Senator Gillibrand’s Hadiya Pendleton and Nyasia Pryear-Yard Gun Trafficking and Crime Prevention Act formed the centerpiece of BSCA’s anti-gun trafficking provision. Gillibrand first introduced the bill in 2009 after meeting with the family of Nyasia Pryear-Yard, who tragically lost her life at 17 years old when she was shot by a perpetrator using an illegally trafficked gun. Gillibrand worked with Nyasia’s mother, Jennifer Pryear, to pass the bill into law, and they attended the bill signing together in 2022.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/schumer-gillibrand-ryan-announce-nearly-4-million-in-federal-funding-to-build-onshore-and-offshore-wind-safety-training-facility-in-orange-county/,"Schumer, Gillibrand, Ryan Announce Nearly $4 Million In Federal Funding To Build Onshore And Offshore Wind Safety Training Facility In Orange County",2024-09-18,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Funding Will Help Train Hundreds Of Workers To Support NY’s Growing Domestic Wind Energy Workforce With New Training Facility For The Next Generation Of IBEW Union Electrical Workers Today, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Congressman Pat Ryan announced $3,828,000 in federal funding for the Educational and Cultural Trust Fund of the Electrical Industry to help establish a Global Wind Organization (GWO) onshore and offshore wind safety training facility in Walden, NY to train New Yorkers for careers in clean energy. “I was proud to have pushed to secure this nearly $4 million federal investment to help the Global Find Organization build an onshore and offshore wind safety training facility in the Hudson Valley. This new offshore wind training facility will help train hundreds of workers here in Orange County for good-paying clean energy jobs and union careers with the best of the best at IBEW Local 3,” said Senator Schumer. “With this federal funding, Orange County can be among the New York communities leading the way on environmentally-friendly industrial development, ensuring more wind technologies are not only powering New York, but also made with local union NY labor. I called on the Commerce Department to deliver this funding because I know how important it is to invest in clean energy and the workers in New York that help produce it. Together, we are ensuring that the growing domestic wind energy workforce can grow in the Hudson Valley to meet the energy needs of tomorrow.” “Clean energy and renewable jobs are the key to a successful future and a strong economy, and it is essential that these workers are properly trained to do their jobs safely,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This nearly $4 million in federal funding will bring a state-of-the-art safety training facility to the Hudson Valley, help boost the safety of workers at wind power facilities, and train the next generation of IBEW workers. I’m proud to have fought to secure this federal funding and will continue to fight for federal resources to boost climate resilience and support clean energy jobs across New York State.” “A thriving offshore wind industry is critical to building the clean energy economy of the future and the thousands of good-paying jobs that come with it,” said Congressman Ryan. “That’s why it’s so important that we invest in training our Hudson Valley workforce to ensure they have the tools they need to succeed. I’m proud to help deliver this funding, and I’ll continue working every day to create jobs and raise wages for Hudson Valley families.” “Local 3 IBEW is grateful for Senator Gillibrand, Senator Schumer, Congressman Ryan, and all of the elected officials in New York State who helped support the Educational and Cultural Trust Fund’s efforts in achieving this U.S. EDA grant that will fund offshore wind GWO safety training for our members,” said Christopher Erikson, Business Manager of Local 3 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. “Thanks to the Biden-Harris administration and the U.S. Department of Commerce, the training and work opportunities created by this grant will have a meaningful and positive impact on our current and future members who will work on the offshore wind projects critical to achieving the climate goals of New York State and our nation. In conjunction with the Joint Industry Board’s Educational and Cultural Trust Fund and our signatory contractors in NECA New York, we will be able to construct a world class facility, in line with Local 3’s values of education, safety, and training. Thank you, Senators Gillibrand and Schumer, Congressman Ryan, the Biden-Harris administration, and all of our supportive friends in federal, state, and local government for helping this grant become a reality for Local 3’s members, who are eager to do their part in building offshore wind projects up and down our coastlines.” The federal funding, administered through the Economic Development Administration’s Economic Adjustment Assistance program, will be used to renovate a 10,000 square foot building owned by the Educational and Cultural Trust Fund of the Electrical Industry. This project is expected to provide training for 490 workers and provide support for 2,870 existing jobs. The facility will offer a wind safety skills program based on the GWO’s existing curriculum to boost the safety of wind power facility workers and train the next generation of the growing domestic wind energy workforce. The safety training facility will feature a working-at-height training module platform, a sea survival platform, a sea rescue tank, three classrooms, a storage room, a fire awareness training room, and a helicopter underwater escape training platform. This safety training is necessary for all workers on offshore wind platforms and will allow them to enter this growing renewable energy sector.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-nearly-30-million-for-nys-microelectronic-commons-hub-via-department-of-defense-to-boost-semiconductor-randd-and-workforce-training-at-upstate-universities-for-americas-national-security-thanks-to-his-chips_science-law,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES NEARLY $30 MILLION FOR NY’S MICROELECTRONIC COMMONS HUB VIA DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE TO BOOST SEMICONDUCTOR R&D AND WORKFORCE TRAINING AT UPSTATE UNIVERSITIES FOR AMERICA’S NATIONAL...,2024-09-18,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Says Funding Will Support Four Projects In NY Led By NY CREATES, Cornell, RIT & Other Upstate Research Labs Focused On Chips, Quantum Computing & Critical Tech To Maintain America’s Competitive Edge In The Defense Industry– Building On Earlier $40M Award For NORDTECH Which Connects NY Universities’ And DoD’s Top Tech Research Projects Schumer Created DoD’s Microelectronic Commons Program & Now NY-Led NORDTECH Consortium Among First Project Awardees With Upstate Research Institutions Leading The Charge For Next Gen Tech For Our National Security Schumer: Thanks To My CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate NY Is Leading Development Of Semiconductor & Quantum Computing For America’s National Security U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced $29+ million in Department of Defense funding for the New York-based Northeast Regional Defense Technology Hub (NORDTECH) to boost semiconductor and other cutting-edge tech research & development and workforce training at Upstate NY universities and research institutions. This funding comes from the $2 billion CHIPS for America Defense Fund which Schumer helped establish in his CHIPS & Science Law, and helped secure Upstate NY’s spot in competing for as one of the first Microelectronic Commons Hubs last year, and will put Upstate NY at the forefront of cutting-edge tech R&D for the defense industry leading the future of this technology for America’s national security. “Upstate NY is leading the future of innovation for America’s national security in the chip industry. Upstate NY’s top research institutions from Cornell and RIT to NY CREATES and more are now partnering with the Department of Defense to make the technology that will drive this industry for the next century. This significant $29+ million puts Upstate NY in the driver’s seat for the discoveries that the chip and defense industry say will be pivotal to the future of this technology,” said Senator Schumer. “I crafted my CHIPS & Science Law with Upstate NY as my north star, because I knew that with targeted federal investments communities across New York could bring this industry back from overseas to America. Now from the Capital Region to Central NY to Western NY that is happening and this major award from the Department of Defense will help us seize this once-in-a-generation opportunity to drive new innovation and to train our workers to make sure major breakthroughs for the future of this technology are discovered and made here in the Empire State.” The U.S. Department of Defense selected four of NORDTECH’s projects based in NY focused on quantum research and development to receive significant federal funding: $8,906,000 for the Superconducting Quantum Error Correction Qubit project Lead Research Institution: NY CREATES Partner Research Institutions: Cornell University, Princeton, Syracuse University, New York University, QCI, Seeqc, Cadence, and the Air Force Research Lab Description: NY CREATES and partners in academia, industry, and government will co-develop technologies necessary to demonstrate scalable quantum error correction, using new materials, innovative quantum circuits and qubit control schemes. Innovative processes that expand the limits of qubit performance will be explored at the academic labs, with a view to hasten the lab-to-fab transition. The Cornell Nanofabrication Facility will offer vetted processes on dedicated 100mm tools that can be utilized by researchers. The team will deliver a superconducting process design kit (PDK), leveraging the tightly controlled fabrication processes at the 300mm wafer scale. This project will democratize access to scalable, high performance qubit fabrication, enabling faster innovation by the broader community. $8,564,000 for the Quantum Ultra-broadband Photonic Integrated Circuits and Systems (QUPICS) project Lead Research Institution: AIM Photonics and Cornell University Partner Research Institutions: Cornell, RIT, Columbia, Yale, AFRL, NIST, Quantinuum, Xanadu, and Toptica USA Description: The QUPICS team, led by the American Institute for Manufacturing Integrated Photonics (AIM Photonics) and Cornell University, will develop the first 300mm foundry fabrication platform for quantum technologies which will span from the ultraviolet to the infrared. QUPICS will specially address the foundry gap for trapped atom/ion and neutral ion quantum technologies incorporating electrical, broadband photonic and electro-optic devices into a single broadly available technology offering. QUPICS will develop and incorporate passive photonics, active components, and laser sources from the ultraviolet to the infrared geared to the use of quantum technologies. Integrated systems spanning this broad wavelength range are critical for a variety of photonics-heavy quantum systems for commercial and DoD priority applications in quantum sensing, networking, computation and position navigation and timing (PNT). In later years QUPICS will open to multi project wafer (MPW) runs and will be actively searching for partners from government laboratories, academia, and businesses. $8,454,000 for the Nitride RF Next-Generation Technology (NITRIDER) project Lead Research Institution: Cornell University Partner Research Institutions: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, U.S. Naval Research, Laboratory, Northrup Grumman, Soctera, Inc., Teledyne Scientific & Imaging LLC, Crystal IS Inc., and Qorvo Texas, LLC Description: High-speed gallium nitride (GaN) high-electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) have revolutionized defense radar and communication systems, despite delivering only 1/10th of the radio frequency (RF) output power for which this semiconductor family is capable. In this project Cornell University and its team will unleash the dormant 90% output power using novel and patented nitride HEMTs and aluminum nitride (AlN) substrates. While taking these two next-generation nitride RF transistor technologies from lab-to-fab, the NITRIDER program will employ specially constructed workforce development modules to develop large signal models, new processes, and research design kits (RDKs) for E-Band and C- Band (radio frequencies from 60GHz-90GHz and 2.4GHz-5GHz, respectively) MMICs, or monolithic microwave integrated circuits which perform functions such as power amplification, to improve radar and communication systems. $3,970,000 for the Heterogeneous Quantum Networking project Lead Research Institution: Rochester Institute of Technology Partner Research Institutions: Air Force Research Lab – Information Directorate, Yale University, Duke University, AIM Photonics, and NY CREATES Description: The Rochester Institute of Technology and partners plan to realize a heterogeneous quantum network (HQN) that connects ion-based qubits with superconducting and photonic-based qubits. Qubits are quantum bits which relay more information than the binary 1s and 0s of today’s computer chips. Enabling the networking of non-identical qubit types expands the usefulness of remote quantum entanglement, which is currently based on homogeneous qubit types. With a heterogeneous network, different qubit types can be used for different applications (storage, sensing, and/or processing) while still being interconnected. Such a network would advance the warfighter’s access to position, navigation, timing, communications, and computational information. NORDTECH’s five founding members, who comprise the hub’s leadership team and governance committee, include the New York Center for Research, Economic Advancement, Technology, Engineering, and Science (NY CREATES), the University at Albany College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering (CNSE), Cornell University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), and IBM. The NORDTECH Hub enables its member participants to pursue further funding – like the funding announced today – through DoD funding opportunities for multi-million-dollar investment in microelectronics prototyping projects and workforce development activities. Last year, Schumer helped NORDTECH secure a $40 million award from the Department of Defense’s Microelectronic Commons Program, one of the first major CHIPS awards from Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Act, to establish the consortium. The grant allows partners to bolster R&D and workforce training programs for the semiconductor industry and add new state-of-the-art microelectronics equipment. That funding came from the $2 billion CHIPS for America Defense Fund which Schumer helped establish in his CHIPS & Science Act. Schumer first successfully authorized the creation of the DoD Microelectronics Commons program as part of the authorization of the first-ever federal chips incentives and R&D programs in the NDAA for FY2021. “This significant investment for NORDTECH will provide a major boost to our economy and further establish New York as a global leader in defense technology,” Governor Hochul said. “I want to thank the Biden-Harris administration, Majority Leader Schumer, and all of our federal partners who passed the CHIPS and Science Act, which has helped build the next generation of semiconductor and microelectronic research, manufacturing, and job training right here in New York.” NORDTECH was one of eight hubs composing the U.S. Microelectronics Commons program. The DoD’s Microelectronic Commons, funded by Schumer’s CHIPS and Science Act, is a network of microelectronics R&D infrastructure investments, including facilities, support for an ecosystem of companies of all sizes, and workforce development designed to empower industry and researchers in working with the DoD's efforts in microelectronics development. With the creation of regional ecosystems funded by the DoD program, each focusing on key technology areas, the Microelectronics Commons will close the gap between research ideas and realization of those ideas, translating more research into new technology, new companies, and expansion of existing companies. The Commons is designed to enable sustained partnerships between emerging technology sources, manufacturing facilities, and interagency partners. It also works to develop a pipeline of talent to bolster regional efforts to build up the semiconductor industry and contribute more broadly to the growth of a domestic semiconductor workforce. Schumer has fought tirelessly to uplift Upstate New York as a major hub to lead the nation in semiconductor manufacturing and research. Schumer secured the federal Tech Hub designation for the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region late last year and then delivered a $40 million award from his CHIPS & Science Law as one of the first Tech Hub implementation grants. Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. Micron has announced plans for a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab in Central New York with support of an over $6 billion preliminary CHIPS agreement. GlobalFoundries plans to invest over $12 billion to expand and construct a second, new state-of-the-art computer chip factory in the Capital Region, with support of $1.5 billion preliminary CHIPS agreement. Wolfspeed has opened the first, largest, and only 200mm silicon carbide fabrication facility in the world in the Mohawk Valley, with plans to further expand their operations. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand their facilities in Onondaga County, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro will invest over $50 million to build their microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. In addition, Upstate New York is home to semiconductor supply chain companies like Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants, and following Schumer’s advocacy, Edwards Vacuum has announced a $300+ million investment to build a dry pump manufacturing facility, creating 600 good-paying jobs to support the growing chip industry in Western New York. Schumer said this funding will also help lay the groundwork to ensure ongoing semiconductor projects are a success and to land additional federal funding for opportunities like becoming a major hub of the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) in the Capital Region at NY CREATES’ Albany NanoTech Complex. Schumer has long said that the Albany NanoTech Complex is the most “shovel-ready” R&D facility in the country and ready to quickly stand up the NSTC. The multibillion-dollar Albany NanoTech Complex is the most advanced, publicly-owned, 300-millimeter semiconductor R&D facility in North America, will soon be one of two public institutions in the world that is home to a new High NA EUV tool that is essential for advanced semiconductor R&D, has well-established partnerships with industry leaders, workforce training providers, and top academic research institutions across the country, including in critical logic and packaging capabilities, and is set up to immediately begin supporting the needs of the broader semiconductor ecosystem, including startups, small businesses, and the workforce. The site and its partners have a long record of accomplishment of groundbreaking research that has led to successful technology transfer, translating research into manufacturing. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-ryan-announce-nearly-4-million-in-federal-funding-to-build-onshore-and-offshore-wind-safety-training-facility-in-orange-county,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, RYAN ANNOUNCE NEARLY $4 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING TO BUILD ONSHORE AND OFFSHORE WIND SAFETY TRAINING FACILITY IN ORANGE COUNTY",2024-09-18,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Funding Will Help Train Hundreds Of Workers To Support NY’s Growing Domestic Wind Energy Workforce With New Training Facility For The Next Generation Of IBEW Union Electrical Workers Schumer: New Facility Means More Renewable Energy, Good-Paying Union Jobs Here In Hudson Valley & Beyond! Today, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Congressman Pat Ryan announced $3,828,000 in federal funding for the Educational and Cultural Trust Fund of the Electrical Industry to help establish a Global Wind Organization (GWO) onshore and offshore wind safety training facility in Walden, NY to train New Yorkers for careers in clean energy. “I was proud to have pushed to secure this nearly $4 million federal investment to help the Global Find Organization build an onshore and offshore wind safety training facility in the Hudson Valley. This new offshore wind training facility will help train hundreds of workers here in Orange County for good-paying clean energy jobs and union careers with the best of the best at IBEW Local 3,” said Senator Schumer. “With this federal funding, Orange County can be among the New York communities leading the way on environmentally-friendly industrial development, ensuring more wind technologies are not only powering New York, but also made with local union NY labor. I called on the Commerce Department to deliver this funding because I know how important it is to invest in clean energy and the workers in New York that help produce it. Together, we are ensuring that the growing domestic wind energy workforce can grow in the Hudson Valley to meet the energy needs of tomorrow.” “Clean energy and renewable jobs are the key to a successful future and a strong economy, and it is essential that these workers are properly trained to do their jobs safely,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This nearly $4 million in federal funding will bring a state-of-the-art safety training facility to the Hudson Valley, help boost the safety of workers at wind power facilities, and train the next generation of IBEW workers. I’m proud to have fought to secure this federal funding and will continue to fight for federal resources to boost climate resilience and support clean energy jobs across New York State.” “A thriving offshore wind industry is critical to building the clean energy economy of the future and the thousands of good-paying jobs that come with it,” said Congressman Ryan. “That’s why it’s so important that we invest in training our Hudson Valley workforce to ensure they have the tools they need to succeed. I’m proud to help deliver this funding, and I’ll continue working every day to create jobs and raise wages for Hudson Valley families.” “Local 3 IBEW is grateful for Senator Gillibrand, Senator Schumer, Congressman Ryan, and all of the elected officials in New York State who helped support the Educational and Cultural Trust Fund’s efforts in achieving this U.S. EDA grant that will fund offshore wind GWO safety training for our members,” said Christopher Erikson, Business Manager of Local 3 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. “Thanks to the Biden-Harris administration and the U.S. Department of Commerce, the training and work opportunities created by this grant will have a meaningful and positive impact on our current and future members who will work on the offshore wind projects critical to achieving the climate goals of New York State and our nation. In conjunction with the Joint Industry Board’s Educational and Cultural Trust Fund and our signatory contractors in NECA New York, we will be able to construct a world class facility, in line with Local 3’s values of education, safety, and training. Thank you, Senators Gillibrand and Schumer, Congressman Ryan, the Biden-Harris administration, and all of our supportive friends in federal, state, and local government for helping this grant become a reality for Local 3’s members, who are eager to do their part in building offshore wind projects up and down our coastlines.” The federal funding, administered through the Economic Development Administration’s Economic Adjustment Assistance program, will be used to renovate a 10,000 square foot building owned by the Educational and Cultural Trust Fund of the Electrical Industry. This project is expected to provide training for 490 workers and provide support for 2,870 existing jobs. The facility will offer a wind safety skills program based on the GWO’s existing curriculum to boost the safety of wind power facility workers and train the next generation of the growing domestic wind energy workforce. The safety training facility will feature a working-at-height training module platform, a sea survival platform, a sea rescue tank, three classrooms, a storage room, a fire awareness training room, and a helicopter underwater escape training platform. This safety training is necessary for all workers on offshore wind platforms and will allow them to enter this growing renewable energy sector. Schumer has long been a champion for boosting NY’s clean energy industry, including championing the Inflation Reduction Act the largest investment in clean energy in history which is driving much of the increased demand for wind manufacturing in NY. The Inflation Reduction Act provided billions for a clean energy and climate smart economy, including investment for solar, wind, electric vehicle, battery, and green building technologies. It also included a series of new incentives such as the Advanced Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit to support companies that domestically manufacture energy technologies. For instance, wind turbine component manufacturers are primed to benefit, with the credit supporting the production of blades, towers, distributed wind inverters, as well as both fixed-bottom and floating offshore wind platforms, which is why investment like today’s in training workers on safety for these wind technologies is so critical. Earlier this year, Senators Schumer and Gillibrand wrote to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo to support the funding of this project. Senator Schumer’s letter can be read below: Dear Secretary Raimondo: I am pleased to write in support of the application submitted by the Educational and Cultural Trust Fund of the Electrical Industry to the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) Economic Adjustment Assistance Program. With funding, the ECTF will establish an Offshore Wind Safety Training Facility that includes Global Wind Organization Basic Safety Training (GWO-BST) and OPITO Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (OPITO-HUET). This facility will focus on vital workforce needs for the industry in both current and forthcoming on and offshore wind energy projects. The creation of this facility will provide a necessary and critical resource that will prevent training bottlenecks. Endorsed by both the industry and labor, the proposed facility stands out as an important partner in preparing the workforce for both on and offshore wind energy projects. The Establishment of the Offshore Wind Safety Training Facility in Walden, New York will be beneficial to the growth and sustainability of the offshore wind industry. I applaud the Educational and Cultural Trust Fund of the Electrical Industry for its foresight and sincerely hope the application is met with approval. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact me or my grants coordinator at (202) 224-6542. Thank you for your consideration. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-meets-with-fort-drums-major-general-naumann-commanding-general-of-the-10th-mountain-division,"SCHUMER MEETS WITH FORT DRUM’S MAJOR GENERAL NAUMANN, COMMANDING GENERAL OF THE 10th MOUNTAIN DIVISION",2024-09-18,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer released the following statement on his meeting with Major General Scott Naumann, Commanding General of the 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum: Majority Leader Schumer said, “Fort Drum is woven in the very fabric of the North Country and essential to our national defense. I was honored to welcome Major General Naumann and Major Johnson to the capital today to discuss how I can best support Fort Drum’s plans and priorities for the upcoming year as well as the long term stability of the installation. The North Country community is eager and able to support the Army in furthering America’s national defense strategy, and it is becoming clearer every day that the future of our military will depend on Fort Drum. I’m proud of the tens of millions in federal support and 1,000+ new soldiers that I’ve delivered to Fort Drum in recent years, and I will never stop fighting to ensure that the heroic men and women serving at Fort Drum have what they need to be mission ready and defend our country.” At the meeting, Schumer reinforced his commitment to supporting Fort Drum’s military construction (MILCON) projects and ensuring that Fort Drum has the federal support necessary to support the Army and how he is fighting to deliver new funding for Fort Drum in the end of year Defense spending bill, including upgrading lighting and electrical infrastructure on Wheeler-Sack Army Air Field. Schumer has fought relentlessly to elevate Fort Drum and the North Country to the Army, and deliver robust federal funding to support their mission. After years of relentless advocacy last year her announced that Fort Drum was selected to house U.S. Army Multi-Domain Task Force (MDTF) #2. Schumer has also worked for years to deliver major federal investment to enhance the bases capabilities for new opportunities like an MDTF unit. Schumer fought for years, personally calling the former Army Secretary, Defense Secretary and Army Chief Of Staff to deliver over $27 million in federal funding to construct a new railhead at Fort Drum, a top priority for the base. The senator also delivered over $21 million for a new Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Hangar at Fort Drum, and he secured $27 million for Fort Drum in the FY22 omnibus to replace the base’s existing water supply that was vulnerable to multiple forms of contamination, requiring Fort Drum to purchase half of its water supply from a municipal source. Schumer also secured nearly $10 million for two major Fort Drum projects in the end-of-year spending package for FY2023. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-breeze-airways-officially-lands-in-ogdensburg-as-new-essential-air-service-carrier-after-successfully-saving-and-boosting-fed-program-vital-to-north-country-airports-earlier-this-year-schumer-says-usdot-has-cleared-breeze-for-takeoff-in-ogdesnburg,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES BREEZE AIRWAYS OFFICIALLY LANDS IN OGDENSBURG AS NEW ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE CARRIER: AFTER SUCCESSFULLY SAVING & BOOSTING FED PROGRAM VITAL TO NORTH COUNTRY AIRPORTS EARLIER THIS...,2024-09-17,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"In FAA Re-Authorization Bill, Schumer Secured More Than Double The Funding For Essential Air Service Program That Guarantees Air Service To Smaller and Rural Communities – Vital To Maintaining Air Service At North Country Airports Now Breeze Will Offer Flights Between Ogdensburg & Washington DC Starting In October, Keeping Ogdensburg And North Country Connected To Key Hub and National Travel Network Schumer: The Sky Is The Limit For Breeze, North Country & Ogdensburg! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation named Breeze Airways as Ogdensburg International Airport’s new Essential Air Service carrier. The Senator said that Breeze will be launching a new direct, daily route from Ogdensburg International Airport to Washington, D.C. starting on October 1st. In this year’s five-year reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Schumer secured more than double the funding for the Essential Air Service program to guarantee service to smaller and rural communities. In October, Breeze will start offering flights between Washington, DC’s Dulles International Airport and Ogdensburg. “It’s official Breeze is landing in Ogdensburg! Breeze expanding its service in the North Country with flights between Ogdensburg and DC is great news for Breeze and the North Country,” said Senator Schumer. “I fought to secure an increase in funding for the Essential Air Service Program in this year’s FAA bill because I know how important it is for our smaller communities to stay connected to a key hub and the national travel network. This decision is a win-win-win for Breeze, Ogdensburg, and the North Country’s economy. Ogdensburg International Airport is a gateway for commerce, tourism, and travel for North Country residents. The sky is the limit for Breeze and Ogdensburg!” ""On behalf of the OBPA and community we serve, I would like to thank Senator Schumer for working with USDOT to ensure that there is no interruption of air service in Ogdensburg. The launch of Breeze Airways at Ogdensburg International Airport is a pivotal moment for our airport and our region, and the Senators efforts to cut through the red tape and make that happen are sincerely appreciated,"" said Steve Lawrence, Executive Director of the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority. ""We are confident this new service to Washington, D.C. will not only meet the needs of local travelers but also stimulate economic growth in the area."" “As we connect more unserved city pairs, Breeze is proud to be expanding its premium leisure low cost product with this Essential Air Service Contract bringing service from Ogdensburg to Dulles,” said David Neeleman, Breeze Airways’ Founder and CEO. “With a great Guest experience, including elevated seating options, fast WiFi and added affordability, we’re setting ourselves apart as nice people, flying nice people, to nice places. This new route to Dulles will allow Ogdensburg residents the ability to travel more affordably and conveniently.” The Department of Transportation’s Essential Air Service program subsidizes trips between smaller and larger airports to ensure access to travel for smaller and rural communities. Schumer has worked for years to ensure NY’s airports are adequately funded and in this year’s FAA bill secured an over 111% funding increase per year to strengthen the Essential Air Service (EAS) program and ensure small and rural communities maintain regular commercial service. The bill also makes it harder for airlines to terminate contracts that could leave communities without air service by incentivizing airports to keep their essential air service contracts, protecting families in areas that would not have easy access to an airport without the small one in their community. Ogdensburg International Airport is one of five airports in New York state that currently depends on this critical program. Schumer is committed to making flights accessible and safe for the North Country, earlier this month securing almost $ 7 million for airport improvements across 8 North Country airports including $2 million for Ogdensburg’s terminal expansion project. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/in-nyc-gillibrand-touts-lower-costs-for-10-prescription-drugs-and-announces-additional-legislation-to-cap-prescription-drug-costs-at-2k-annually/,"In NYC, Gillibrand Touts Lower Costs For 10 Prescription Drugs And Announces Additional Legislation To Cap Prescription Drug Costs At $2k Annually",2024-09-16,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, at a press conference in NYC, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced historic Medicare savings and lower costs for 10 commonly used prescription drugs. These drugs are some of the most expensive and most frequently prescribed in the Medicare program and are used to treat conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. The new prices will go into effect for people with Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage beginning January 1, 2026. Gillibrand also announced the Capping Prescription Costs Act, which would extend the cap on annual out-of-pocket prescription drug costs to people with private health insurance, with a cap of $2,000 for individuals and $4,000 for families. “No one should have to risk their health by skipping refills or rationing life-saving medication because they can’t afford the cost of their prescriptions. In 2022, the Biden-Harris administration delivered historic savings by passing the Inflation Reduction Act, which allowed Medicare to negotiate drug prices and capped the price of insulin at $35 a month for seniors. The $6 billion in predicted savings for the Medicare program following these drug price negotiations is proof that the Inflation Reduction Act is working for the American people,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Now, I’m fighting to get prices down on all drugs for all Americans. The Capping Prescription Costs Act imposes caps on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for people with private insurance: a maximum of $2,000 a year for an individual and $4,000 a year for a family. Democrats are fighting to expand Medicare benefits and reduce prescription drug prices because access to high-quality, affordable health care is a human right, not a privilege.” “Every New Yorker deserves access to affordable life-saving medications without the fear of financial ruin. Senator Gillibrand’s legislation would be a critical step to ensure no one has to choose between their health and their financial well-being. By capping out-of-pocket drug costs for individuals and families, we can bring real relief to those struggling with chronic conditions. We must recognize that healthcare is a human right,” said New York State Senator Gustavo Rivera. “The Inflation Reduction Act took vital steps to lower beneficiary and Medicare costs, including by establishing a $2,000 cap on annual out-of-pocket prescription drug spending. As a result, for the first time in Medicare’s history, all Part D enrollees will have certainty about their cost obligations and protection against limitless expenses. The Medicare Rights Center is pleased to support Senator Gillibrand’s Capping Prescription Costs Act, which would create similar safeguards for people with other types of coverage, ensuring they too can plan more and worry less. We applaud Senator Gillibrand and her co-sponsors for championing this legislation and look forward to working together to ensure all Americans can get the care they need, when they need it,” said Fred Riccardi, President, Medicare Rights Center. “With this policy New York’s elders, who largely live on fixed incomes, will be able to concentrate on their health rather than the anxiety of how they can or cannot afford their prescription drugs. On a larger scale, this policy is timely as New Yorkers 65 years of age and older, as a cohort, are approaching 20 percent of the population. Implementing this policy addresses the infrastructural shift not only in New York State, but in the entire country,” said María Alvarez, Executive Director, New York StateWide Senior Action Council. “As Chair of the NYC Council Health Committee, I applaud Senator Gillibrand’s leadership in lowering prescription drug costs and her commitment to making life-saving medications more affordable,” said Council Member Lynn Schulman. “This new legislation is a critical step toward ensuring that no New Yorker has to choose between their health and financial stability.” The Capping Prescription Costs Act builds on transformational drug pricing reforms included in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which capped the price of insulin at $35 a month and out-of-pocket drug costs at $2,000 a year for Medicare Part D beneficiaries. The bill is cosponsored by Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Fetterman (D-PA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Patty Murray (D-WA). Representative Kathy Manning (D-NC) leads companion legislation in the House.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/schumer-gillibrand-kennedy-announce-1-7-million-to-restore-ralph-c-wilson-jr-centennial-parks-shoreline-via-the-great-lakes-restoration-initiative/,"Schumer, Gillibrand, Kennedy Announce $1.7 Million To Restore Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park’s Shoreline Via The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative",2024-09-16,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Schumer Secured An Unprecedented $1 Billion For the GLRI In The Infrastructure Law; Now This Funding Will Help Restore Niagara River Shoreline For Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park In Buffalo New $$ Will Also Help Cherry Farms Shoreline Along The Upper Niagara River Schumer, Gillibrand, Kennedy: We’re Turning The Tide For WNY’s Great Lakes Shorelines! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Congressman Tim Kennedy today announced $1,961,000 in recommended Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) funding to restore two shorelines in Western New York. This includes $1.7 million for Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park in Buffalo to help protect the park and make the area and habitats along the Niagara River more resilient and help prevent flooding. This investment comes from the historic funding in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which Senators Schumer and Gillibrand championed with a historic $1 billion in new funding to breathe new life into one of the greatest natural beauties of Upstate NY. “The dream of Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park is becoming a reality. I am proud to deliver this $1.7 million in federal funding to reconstruct the over 100-year-old shoreline to keep it safe from flooding and protect the environment for the next generation of Buffalonians who will use this park. When I led the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to passage with a historic $1 billion increase for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, it is long overdue investments uplifting the environment and community like these that I had in mind,” said Senator Schumer. “Ralph Wilson was a dear friend of mine, and this will help restore the shoreline along the Niagara River to give the families of Buffalo the beautiful waterfront park that our families have long desired and is fitting to his legacy. Investing in the Great Lakes means investing in the future of Western New York, and I will always fight to so our community can enjoy the full natural beauty and economic energy of the wonderful communities along the Great Lakes.” “The shoreline at Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park promises to be a gem for Buffalo residents and visitors, and it is critical we invest to protect its habitats and make it more resilient to flooding,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This $1.7 million in GLRI funding will help restore Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park’s shoreline to ensure it is resilient to flooding and that its habitats are protected for years to come. I’m proud to have fought to secure this funding through the GLRI and will continue to fight to protect New York’s natural beauties.” “This transformational funding will restore the shoreline at Buffalo’s rebuilt Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park to protect our environment, expand recreational space, and generate economic growth,” said Congressman Kennedy. “Residents and visitors alike will now be able to better enjoy our greatest natural resource thanks to $1.7 million made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Investments like this are protecting the Great Lakes for future generations and setting up Western New York to thrive for years to come.” “Investments to rebuild our critical infrastructure, improve resiliency, and increase access are vital to communities across the Great Lakes, especially in Western New York,” said David Egner, president & CEO, Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation. “This historic investment into Buffalo’s Ralph Wilson Park is setting an example of how the public and private sectors can work together to address climate change and improve our communities. The rebuilding of the 100-year-old shoreline will add needed flood protection, while also enhancing the natural habitat and providing new recreational opportunities. We are grateful to all the partners, including the City of Buffalo and Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper, who are making this community vision a reality.” Schumer, Gillibrand, and Kennedy explained the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recommended $261,000 for the Cherry Farms shoreline and $1.7 million for the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park shoreline. Once the funding agreement is finalized, the Cherry Farms project will implement a detailed feasibility study to plan for the restoration of degradation along the east shore of the Upper Niagara River, including building a fish spawning habitat. The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park project will support the redesign and reconstruction of the shoreline along the Niagara River, protecting and restoring up to 5 acres of habitat in the City of Buffalo. Schumer and Gillibrand previously announced $4.5 million to restore the shoreline of Buffalo’s Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park from the National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) to ensure the long-term stability of the park by improving flood mitigation efforts, restoring coastal habitats, and giving the public greater access to the Lake Erie waterfront. That funding was made possible thanks to the historic increases the senators secured in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Law.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-kennedy-announce-17-million-to-restore-ralph-c-wilson-jr-centennial-parks-shoreline-via-the-great-lakes-restoration-initiative,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, KENNEDY ANNOUNCE $1.7 MILLION TO RESTORE RALPH C. WILSON JR. CENTENNIAL PARK’S SHORELINE VIA THE GREAT LAKES RESTORATION INITIATIVE",2024-09-16,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Secured An Unprecedented $1 Billion For the GLRI In The Infrastructure Law; Now This Funding Will Help Restore Niagara River Shoreline For Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park In Buffalo New $$ Will Also Help Cherry Farms Shoreline Along The Upper Niagara River Schumer, Gillibrand, Kennedy: We’re Turning The Tide For WNY’s Great Lakes Shorelines! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Congressman Tim Kennedy today announced $1,961,000 in recommended Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) funding to restore two shorelines in Western New York. This includes $1.7 million for Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park in Buffalo to help protect the park and make the area and habitats along the Niagara River more resilient and help prevent flooding. This investment comes from the historic funding in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which Senators Schumer and Gillibrand championed with a historic $1 billion in new funding to breathe new life into one of the greatest natural beauties of Upstate NY. “The dream of Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park is becoming a reality. I am proud to deliver this $1.7 million in federal funding to reconstruct the over 100-year-old shoreline to keep it safe from flooding and protect the environment for the next generation of Buffalonians who will use this park. When I led the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to passage with a historic $1 billion increase for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, it is long overdue investments uplifting the environment and community like these that I had in mind,” said Senator Schumer. “Ralph Wilson was a dear friend of mine, and this will help restore the shoreline along the Niagara River to give the families of Buffalo the beautiful waterfront park that our families have long desired and is fitting to his legacy. Investing in the Great Lakes means investing in the future of Western New York, and I will always fight to so our community can enjoy the full natural beauty and economic energy of the wonderful communities along the Great Lakes.” “The shoreline at Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park promises to be a gem for Buffalo residents and visitors, and it is critical we invest to protect its habitats and make it more resilient to flooding,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This $1.7 million in GLRI funding will help restore Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park’s shoreline to ensure it is resilient to flooding and that its habitats are protected for years to come. I’m proud to have fought to secure this funding through the GLRI and will continue to fight to protect New York’s natural beauties.” “This transformational funding will restore the shoreline at Buffalo's rebuilt Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park to protect our environment, expand recreational space, and generate economic growth,” said Congressman Kennedy. “Residents and visitors alike will now be able to better enjoy our greatest natural resource thanks to $1.7 million made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Investments like this are protecting the Great Lakes for future generations and setting up Western New York to thrive for years to come.” “Investments to rebuild our critical infrastructure, improve resiliency, and increase access are vital to communities across the Great Lakes, especially in Western New York,” said David Egner, president & CEO, Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation. “This historic investment into Buffalo’s Ralph Wilson Park is setting an example of how the public and private sectors can work together to address climate change and improve our communities. The rebuilding of the 100-year-old shoreline will add needed flood protection, while also enhancing the natural habitat and providing new recreational opportunities. We are grateful to all the partners, including the City of Buffalo and Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper, who are making this community vision a reality.” Schumer, Gillibrand, and Kennedy explained the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recommended $261,000 for the Cherry Farms shoreline and $1.7 million for the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park shoreline. Once the funding agreement is finalized, the Cherry Farms project will implement a detailed feasibility study to plan for the restoration of degradation along the east shore of the Upper Niagara River, including building a fish spawning habitat. The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park project will support the redesign and reconstruction of the shoreline along the Niagara River, protecting and restoring up to 5 acres of habitat in the City of Buffalo. Schumer and Gillibrand previously announced $4.5 million to restore the shoreline of Buffalo’s Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park from the National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) to ensure the long-term stability of the park by improving flood mitigation efforts, restoring coastal habitats, and giving the public greater access to the Lake Erie waterfront. That funding was made possible thanks to the historic increases the senators secured in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Law. Since its inception in 2010, Schumer noted, the GLRI has had a significant impact on Upstate New York. The Buffalo River, which is currently listed as an area of federal concern due to excessive pollution, is on its way to being de-listed thanks to a decade-long cleanup effort that was funded by the GLRI and undertaken by multiple federal, state, and local agencies. Schumer noted that the Buffalo River serves as a model for what is possible, particularly with regards to the clean-up of the much larger Niagara River. The GLRI last year allocated $300,000 towards the river’s clean-up, and a cut in funding would have imperiled the progress that has been made. Instead, Schumer explained, clean-up efforts like the ones being undertaken in Western New York can continue in earnest. Schumer has long been a champion for the Great Lakes, fighting off budget cuts to the GLRI in 2019 and working to secure a multimillion dollar increase in authorization levels for the program in 2018. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-attempted-assassination-of-former-president-trump/,Gillibrand Statement On Attempted Assassination Of Former President Trump,2024-09-15,2024,2024-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"“I’m grateful that former President Trump is safe, and I’m thankful to the Secret Service and local law enforcement for responding swiftly. Political violence has absolutely no place in our country.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z