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-calls-allegations-in-cornell-rape-case-serious-and-horrific-on-nprs-all-things-considered/,Gillibrand Calls Allegations In Cornell Rape Case “Serious And Horrific” On NPR’s All Things Considered,2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"***Hear Senator Gillibrand’s Full Interview Here*** Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) called the allegations in the Cornell University fraternity rape case “serious and horrific” in an interview on NPR’s All Things Considered and issued the following statement: “The allegations made in the Cornell University complaint are extremely serious and horrific. “I am glad the district attorney is reopening this case. Regardless of what this grand jury concludes, the larger truth is clear: a system that forces survivors to these lengths is a system that is fundamentally broken. Victims deserve thorough investigations, and perpetrators must be held accountable. “Our priorities are upside down. The Senate recently spent two weeks urgently talking about college sports but has spent years looking away from sexual violence and student safety on our college campuses. “Congress must act and take up my bipartisan Campus Accountability and Safety Act (CASA) with Senator Chuck Grassley to hold campuses accountable, create a fair process for students, and ensure victims have access to a dedicated advocate to assist in navigating the adjudication process.” Listen to Senator Gillibrand’s interview with NPR here. Full transcript of Senator Gillibrand’s interview below: SACHA PFEIFFER: It’s All Things Considered from NPR News. I’m Sacha Pfeiffer. JUANA SUMMERS: And I’m Juana Summers. When I heard a woman’s allegations that she was drugged and gang raped at a Cornell University fraternity house in 2024, the story felt familiar to me. It’s not because the story was well known before this weekend. It’s because so many of the details she alleges – a campus party, a fraternity, drugs, alcohol, and sexual assault – echo so many of the stories we’ve heard from numerous college campuses for years. PFEIFFER: The alleged assault at Cornell happened in 2024. Campus police investigated, but no criminal charges were ever filed. Cornell defends its handling of the case. Now the woman, identified as Jane Doe, has brought a civil case against the university and the seven male students she says assaulted her. That has prompted prosecutors to reopen the case, and the details of these allegations have sparked national outrage. SUMMERS: To unpack all of this, I called up someone earlier today who’s been pushing for years for legislation to address the handling of campus sexual assault crimes, New York Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and I started by asking her for her reaction to these allegations, as well as the decision to reopen the case. GILLIBRAND: Well, I’m certainly grateful that the DA is reopening the investigation. I’ve just seen the public reports, and obviously these allegations are extremely serious and horrific, and as a parent with a kid in college, this is probably something that every parent in America wants addressed. SUMMERS: Matthew Van Houten, who’s the Tompkins County District Attorney, said on Monday that Jane Doe’s original statement two years ago, and I’m going to quote him here, did not allege that she was drugged against her will or gang raped. Now, in light of the new details provided in that civil suit, he says he would now let a grand jury decide. Her lawyer told CNN that the new report was not materially different from what was contained in the original complaint. What questions would you want answered about how investigators handled that initial report? GILLIBRAND: So, one of the things that I found over the years of working in this space, is that the people who do the interviews initially or ask questions initially have to be highly trained. They have to be experts in this kind of trauma. They have to be experts on what happens when someone has lived through this kind of trauma. You need a trauma-informed counselor to do that first interview, and a lot of our lawyers, a lot of our district attorneys, a lot of law enforcement are not trained in that way. We studied cases where law enforcement groups were trained appropriately, and it exponentially increased the number of people who reported rapes. It increased the number of people whose cases actually went to adjudication, and it increased the number of convictions. SUMMERS: I mean, you have been working on these issues for such a long time. I think it was more than a decade ago that I was talking to you, covering the bipartisan push that you and other lawmakers made to address this issue to curb the rates of sexual assaults on campuses. You’ve come back to this legislation over and over again, and yet I have to say, Senator, it doesn’t feel like much has changed. Is that your view? GILLIBRAND: No, I think very little has changed. I do imagine that many campuses have put in place much better policies than they had a decade ago, but Congress hasn’t done its part, and we just spent two weeks talking about college sports. Congress should spend at least that time talking about how to make campuses safe for all students. SUMMERS: What would you like to see Congress do? What’s an appropriate step here? GILLIBRAND: Well, I’d like to have hearings on the piece of legislation that Senator Grassley and I have authored, CASA, and then we should be able to get a vote. Just simply get a vote so that we can hold campuses and communities of responsibility, hold them accountable for whether they are protecting all students or not, and that is literally not happening today on many, many college campuses. SUMMERS: Senator Gillibrand, I’ve heard you for a long time, on and off the Hill. So I want to ask you a question, not as a senator, but just as a mom. And I understand that you have at least one son who’s college age. How do you talk to your sons? How do we talk to young men about situations and allegations like these? Because these instances, they keep happening year after year, from college campus to college campus. GILLIBRAND: Well, as a mom, I of course worry about the safety and well-being of my children, and I try to make sure that they understand the risks they have every day. I also read the story about a bunch of kids who died on campus because they did some drug that’s not fentanyl but worse than fentanyl. So when I hear stories like this, I just talk to my children about what happened on these campuses, what happened to these children, and ask them like, “Do you ever see yourself in this situation? What would you do in this situation? Who would you ask for help? You know, would you save someone? Would you stick up for someone? Would you prevent someone from taking a risk that’s very scary, like taking drugs?” I think a lot of campuses have some sexual assault prevention training. I don’t know if all campuses have them, but I know that my sons have had those trainings on their campuses. So it’s very hard, and you just want your children and their friends and their whole community to be safe. SUMMERS: I mean, just taking a step away from the specifics of these allegations at Cornell University, I just know so many women, myself included, who have had stories of experiencing unwanted sexual contact, assault, or rape on their campuses who then seek help from systems that were ostensibly built to keep them safe, and yet feel let down or betrayed, and it keeps happening. So I guess the question I have is, what makes it stop? What’s the tipping point? GILLIBRAND: What you’ve heard from many survivors, and this is the throughline, is that when they felt they could report what happened, they were not received openly. They were received with disbelief. They were received with blame. They were received with, “That’s what you were wearing,” or “You were drinking that,” or “You were doing drugs. What do you expect?” Like sometimes, the first person they talk to is so uninformed and so poorly trained. They say all the wrong things, and the things that they say in those instances often will leave a survivor to drop the case or to blame him or herself and unwilling to tell his or her story. That does not set a campus up for safety or for success. You need to have a system that works, that works for everyone, that is 100% transparent. SUMMERS: We’ve been speaking with Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York. Thank you so much. GILLIBRAND: Thank you. ###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-schumer-pass-legislation-to-cement-saratoga-battlefields-legacy/,"Gillibrand, Schumer Pass Legislation To Cement Saratoga Battlefield’s Legacy",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Legislation Would Rename Historic Site “Saratoga National Battlefield Park” Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) announced congressional passage of the bipartisan Strengthening America’s Turning Point Act. This legislation would officially redesignate Saratoga National Historical Park as Saratoga National Battlefield Park, more accurately reflecting its pivotal role in the Revolutionary War. Representatives Elise Stefanik (R-NY) and Paul Tonko (D-NY) led the legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives, where it passed last year. The bill now heads to the president’s desk. “Saratoga Battlefield is a source of pride for the Capital Region and a symbol of the patriotism, sacrifice, and resilience that built our country,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Battles of Saratoga were the turning point of the American Revolution and monumental events in world history, marking the first time that a British army laid down their arms. This name change reflects the historic significance of the battles and honors the sacrifice of those who fought for our nation’s founding.” “The Battles of Saratoga were the turning point of the American Revolution. I’m proud to announce that legislation renaming the historical park ‘Saratoga National Battlefield Park’ has just passed the Senate and will be signed into law,” said Senator Schumer. “This new name provides important context and reflects the significance of the battlefield as a turning point for the Revolutionary War. As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary this year, and get ready for the 250th anniversary of the Battles of Saratoga next year, honoring the heart of New York’s Revolutionary War history is key to ensuring America’s history lives on.” “This summer, as we celebrated our nation’s 250thbirthday, I was reminded once again of the pivotal role our Capital Region played in America’s fight for freedom and independence,” said Rep. Tonko. “Now, as we approach the 250thanniversary of the Battles of Saratoga, I’m thrilled to celebrate the passage through the Senate of the Strengthening America’s Turning Point Act. The designation of ‘Saratoga National Battlefield Park’ will help accurately reflect the importance of this national historic site, boosting local tourism and fostering a greater appreciation for our region’s historic heritage among locals and visitors alike. I was proud last year to lead this legislation through the House, and I’m eager now to see it signed into law.” The Saratoga National Historical Park is the site of the 1777 Battles of Saratoga, which were some of the first significant American victories over the British army during the Revolutionary War. The battles were called a “turning point” and helped to convince the French to ally with the American colonies. New York State began to preserve the site in 1927. In 1938, Congress passed a law to designate the park as a unit of the National Park System, naming it the “Saratoga National Historical Park.” Local New York stakeholders have advocated to change the park’s name ahead of the battles’ 250th anniversary to more accurately reflect its significance as a battlefield. In 2024, the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a resolution requesting that Congress and the National Park Service change the name. This legislation would finalize this change. ###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-congress-passage-of-her-bill-to-end-production-of-the-penny-and-save-taxpayers-money/,Gillibrand Statement On Congress’ Passage Of Her Bill To End Production Of The Penny And Save Taxpayers Money,2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, following Congress’ passage of her Common Cents Act with Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), James Lankford (R-OK), and Ron Wyden (D-OR), U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement: “Halting production of the penny just makes sense. It currently costs the U.S. Mint nearly four cents to produce a single penny – a massive waste of taxpayer dollars. By suspending the penny’s production, we can cut back on costs, streamline transactions, and move toward a more practical financial system. I am grateful to Senators Lummis, Lankford, and Wyden for their partnership in getting this bill through the Senate, and I now urge the president to sign it into law.” ###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-new-report-that-impending-social-security-benefit-cuts-will-be-deeper-than-predicted/,Gillibrand Statement On New Report That Impending Social Security Benefit Cuts Will Be Deeper Than Predicted,2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"New Report Finds Social Security Benefits Could Be Cut 26% In 2032 Gillibrand’s Social Security Expansion Act Would Extend The Solvency Of Social Security For 75 Years By Requiring The Wealthiest Americans To Pay Their Fair Share Of Payroll Taxes Following the release of a new report finding that Social Security benefit cuts could be deeper than previously predicted – up to 26% – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) slammed the Trump administration for its role in jeopardizing seniors’ benefits and demanded passage of her legislation to extend the solvency and guarantee of Social Security. “Americans who have worked hard their entire lives deserve every dollar of Social Security they were promised. But due to Trump administration and Republican inaction, their benefits are on track to be slashed by 26% in just six years,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We must take immediate action to prevent this benefit cut. As the top Democrat on the Senate Aging Committee, I’m demanding swift passage of my legislation to blow the Social Security cap, make wealthy Americans pay their fair share, and prevent these draconian benefit cuts.” This year’s annual Social Security Trustees Report, which was released in June, previously concluded that Social Security’s retirement trust fund will be depleted by 2032. A new Congressional Budget Office (CBO) report released earlier this month concluded that at that time, seniors will see their benefits cut by about 26%–a higher percentage than previously predicted. Last year, Senator Gillibrand introduced the Social Security Expansion Act to extend the solvency of Social Security for 75 years by requiring the wealthiest American households to pay their fair share of payroll taxes. Under the current formula, a CEO making $20 million a year pays the same amount into Social Security as individuals making $184,500 a year. This legislation would lift the cap on Social Security, requiring income above $250,000 to be subject to the Social Security payroll tax and thus increasing the amount paid into the Social Security trust fund to increase its longevity. Under this bill, over 91 percent of American households would not experience a tax increase. The full text of this bill can be found here. The depletion of Social Security funds is due in part to the Trump administration’s reckless policy agenda. The so-called “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which was passed by Republicans in Congress and signed into law by President Trump last year, permanently lowered income tax rates. This resulted in less tax being paid on Social Security benefits, reducing the revenue flowing to the Social Security trust fund and decreasing its solvency. At the same time, the administration’s deportation efforts and restrictive immigration policies have further reduced the revenue for the trust fund, as legal immigrants and many undocumented workers pay billions of dollars in Social Security taxes, but undocumented immigrants are not eligible to receive Social Security benefits. ###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-republicans-blocking-her-bill-to-repeal-and-refund-trumps-cost-increasing-tariffs/,Gillibrand Statement On Republicans Blocking Her Bill To Repeal And Refund Trump’s Cost-Increasing Tariffs,2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"New York Families Have Spent Over $5,500 More Due To President Trump’s Tariff Chaos And Other Reckless Policies Today, after her bill to repeal and refund Trump’s Canadian tariffs and lower Americans’ costs was blocked by Senate Republicans, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement: “When Americans go to the grocery store, the gas station, or their local small business, they are paying more because of Trump’s tariffs,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Hardworking families are struggling because of the policies of Donald Trump and Washington Republicans that put bombs and billionaires over working people. Today, I offered a clear way to genuinely lower everyday costs and put more money back in Americans’ pockets. Yet again, Trump and Republicans stood in the way of progress for working families.” Gillibrand’s bill, the Banning Antiquated Duties and Delivering Equitable American Levies (BAD DEAL) Act, would have repealed all tariffs levied under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 and required that Americans be refunded for all duties paid under this authority. This includes the 50% tariffs on Canada and the import ban on certain Canadian alcoholic beverages, dairy products, motorcycles that took effect today. The president’s tariffs have previously been found to be unconstitutional and have already raised costs on New Yorkers. Poll after poll after poll have found that a resounding majority of Americans oppose Trump’s tariffs actions that have raised prices and hurt their families. Senator Gillibrand has opposed President Trump’s tariffs since the start of his administration. Last year, she joined 14 of her colleagues in introducing the Small Business RELIEF Act to end Trump’s Tariff Tax and refund small businesses their duties paid. In March, she and her colleagues introduced the Small Business Liberation 2.0 Act to exempt small businesses from another set of Trump-imposed tariffs and refund what they had already paid. ###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-132-million-in-federal-funding-for-fire-departments-across-upstate-new-york,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE $13.2+ MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR FIRE DEPARTMENTS ACROSS UPSTATE NEW YORK",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Helped Create AFG & SAFER Programs To Train, Equip, And Staff Fire Departments Across Upstate NY Schumer Pushed To Re-Authorize Programs In 2024 To Continue Delivering Gear, Training, And Other Vital Support For First Responders Schumer, Gillibrand: Keeping Upstate NY’s Firefighters & First Responders Safe U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $13,230,088.46 in federal funding for dozens of fire departments across Upstate New York. The funding will be used to provide protective gear, training, and supplies to emergency personnel. This federal funding was administered through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) programs, which Schumer helped create, and the senators fought hard to preserve and fund. “Every day, our first responders risk everything to keep families safe and protect communities across Upstate New York. This more than $13.2 million in federal investments will put critical resources directly into the hands of firefighters—from New Rochelle to Syracuse to Buffalo—helping them stay safe and giving them what they need to do their jobs when it matters most,” said Senator Schumer. “For decades, I have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with firefighters from across Upstate New York to fight for this critical program, and I’m proud to see that work continue to deliver real resources for the brave first responders who always answer the call for help.” “Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We owe it to them to ensure that they have the resources and personnel they need to respond to emergencies as quickly as possible. I’m proud to be delivering over $13 million in federal funding to battle ongoing training and equipment gaps in fire departments across New York, and I will keep fighting to get more federal resources to our first responders.” “The North Tonawanda Fire Department is extremely grateful to Senator Schumer for his continued support of our department and assistance throughout the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant process. The $488,020.48 award will allow us to send eight of our firefighters, approximately 21% of our career staff, to an accredited Paramedic Certification Program and become New York State-certified paramedics. With EMS incidents accounting for approximately 82% of our nearly 4,000 annual calls for service, increasing the number of paramedics within our department will expand Advanced Life Support and enhance patient safety. Senator Schumer’s continued commitment to the North Tonawanda Fire Department and to firefighters and first responders across New York State is deeply appreciated,” said City of North Tonawanda Fire Chief Doug Orlowski. “I am extremely grateful to Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand for their support of the Syracuse Fire Department’s AFG application. Traffic collisions are one of the more significant occupational risks of injury or death for firefighters nationwide. This funding of $857,024 will allow us to give our nearly 400 members extensive classroom driver training and hands-on practice with our apparatus. Better prepared drivers mean safer responses for our firefighters, the people we serve, and everyone who shares the road with us,” said City of Syracuse Fire Chief Michael J. Monds. “We are an all-volunteer department of 30 active firefighters serving about 9,300 residents across 39 square miles in Wayne County, and this funding will be critical to replace and upgrade our aging self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units to ensure our firefighters have dependable breathable air when responding to emergencies. We appreciate the Senators’ support to help secure this funding to help safeguard our firefighters and local residents,” said South Macedon Fire and Rescue 1st Asst. Chief Christopher Creamer. Schumer helped create these programs and has championed program reauthorization and increased funding levels. In 2024, Senator Schumer led to passage the bipartisan Fire Grants and Safety Act, extending funding for the AFG and SAFER programs through Fiscal Year 2030. Schumer explained that the AFG and SAFER programs have been a lifeline for fire departments and have become essential to their continued operations because they often face budget shortfalls and high costs, hindering their ability to purchase the modern equipment they need to respond to emergencies and keep firefighters safe. These programs have delivered hundreds of millions of dollars for firefighters and first responders across New York. The AFG and SAFER grant programs are administered by the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency, providing funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations. Grants are awarded on a competitive basis to applicants that most closely address the program’s priorities and demonstrate financial need. A full list of funding recipients can be found below: ###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-colleagues-press-commissioner-bisignano-on-mismanagement-mistreatment-of-workers-at-social-security-administration-irs/,"Gillibrand, Colleagues Press Commissioner Bisignano On Mismanagement, Mistreatment Of Workers At Social Security Administration, IRS",2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Decision to limit paid annual and sick leave will affect over 120,000 IRS and SSA workers U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Aging, joined Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) in sending a letter to Frank Bisignano, Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA) and Chief Executive Officer of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), on their concerns about his mistreatment of agency employees after obtaining a circulated internal memo that indicates that he will strip SSA and IRS of advanced annual leave and sick leave. “The Trump administration has starved the Social Security Administration and the IRS of the resources they need to provide critical services to millions of Americans,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Limiting paid leave will only further push away quality workers from these agencies and cause increased wait times, more frustration, and real hardship for families trying to access essential benefits and file their taxes. I am demanding that the administration immediately reverse this decision and ensure that every American can count on the services they need.” Workers at the Social Security Administration and the IRS receive advance paid leave policies that allow them to take time off before it is officially accrued, a common practice across the federal workforce. Advanced leave grants employees the ability to respond to health and family emergencies and has long been a part of the federal government’s efforts to provide the workplace conditions needed to attract and retain the most qualified individuals to serve the American people. But an internal memorandum indicated that Bisignano, the head of SSA and IRS, would strip agency employees of these benefits. “We are concerned that this policy will further weaken the already stressed resources of these agencies, leaving the American people with degraded access to their rightful Social Security benefits and needed IRS services,” the senators wrote. “…(Y)ou have imposed a cruel and unjustified plan that is likely to drive additional employees out the door, doubling down on the Administration’s already disastrous efforts to push out federal employees.” The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cut over 32,000 employees from the IRS and the SSA in 2025, diminishing customer service at these agencies. Suspending advanced annual and sick leave will make matters worse, pushing out federal employees and directly hurting Americans who need assistance from the SSA and IRS. These fresh cuts could delay access to benefits and critical tax refunds. “(T)his latest action to eliminate a workplace benefit could contribute to increasingly dire conditions for agency staff, negatively impacting morale and employee retention and — if the agencies lose additional workers — hurting taxpayers and Social Security recipients,” the senators continued. The senators urged Bisignano to reverse this decision and immediately restore advanced leave at the SSA and IRS. They further requested that SSA and IRS provide more details on the suspension of advanced paid leave policies at both agencies by no later than October 6, 2026. As the top Democrat on the Senate Aging Committee, Senator Gillibrand is a staunch supporter of Social Security and has fought the Trump administration’s cuts and overhauls at SSA. In March, she launched an investigation into SSA’s ongoing customer service crisis, after staffing cuts and reassignments left the agency unable to fully serve the 75 million Americans who rely on the program. She has also rallied alongside seniors and unions to demand a reversal of staffing and service cuts, and she pressed SSA on its plans to close field offices and make it harder for Americans to get their benefits. The full text of the letter is available HERE. ###",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-schneider-call-for-hearings-after-navy-discloses-8-attempted-suicides-by-sailors-in-uss-abraham-lincoln-carrier-strike-group/,"Gillibrand, Schneider Call For Hearings After Navy Discloses 8 Attempted Suicides By Sailors In USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group",2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,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 (D-NY), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, and Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL-10), a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, called for congressional hearings following the Navy’s confirmation that 8 sailors in the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group had attempted suicide during the group’s most recent deployment. This admission was made in a September 22 letter Gillibrand received from Acting United States Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao, weeks after administration officials and the president had dismissed families’ and soldiers’ concerns about conditions on board the ship. Acting Secretary Cao’s response follows the August 2026 letter that Gillibrand and 14 of her colleagues sent to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth calling for transparency after reporting detailed dismal conditions for sailors on board the USS Abraham Lincoln. Gillibrand also previously demanded hearings over those reports. “What Trump and Secretary Hegseth dismissed as ‘fake news’ turned out to be serious and deteriorating conditions for our service members,” said Senator Gillibrand, member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. “Our troops and their families make immense sacrifices every single day, yet the president dismissed them with open disrespect. That this administration can find endless taxpayer dollars for bombs, ballrooms, and billionaires, but cannot take care of our service members, is completely unacceptable. The American people need hearings, accountability, and a clear plan to protect our service members and prioritize American families.” “As the Member of Congress representing Naval Station Great Lakes in North Chicago, where every Navy recruit receives basic training, the health and well-being of our men and women in uniform is one of my highest priorities,” said Rep. Schneider. “Every American should be outraged by this Administration’s failure to equip our service members with the tools and support they need to carry out a successful deployment and the blatant lies about the conditions sailors were experiencing on the USS Abraham Lincoln. The new reporting from CNN in response to Senator Gillibrand’s oversight effort is deeply concerning and should alarm everyone. I’m glad to join Senator Gillibrand in calling for open and public hearings to get the answers the American people and our service members deserve.” In the response letter, Acting Secretary Cao wrote, “Since the beginning of Lincoln’s deployment, there have been a total of eight suicide attempts across the strike group – this number includes the Lincoln crew and Sailors from the carrier air wing, strike group and destroyer squadron staff, escorting destroyers, and all embarked aviation squadrons.” The letter detailed one particular suicide attempt, in which “one Sailor attempted to go overboard in March and was stopped by his shipmates. That Sailor was also provided immediate medical care and subsequently returned to homeport.” The full response can be read HERE. ###",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/new-study-trump-vanity-projects-slated-to-cost-1-8-billion/,New Study: Trump Vanity Projects Slated To Cost $1.8+ Billion,2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"JEC Report: Cost Of Vanity Projects Could Cover 600 Million School Lunches, Medical Expenditures For More Than 88,000 Veterans For One Year, Or Hiring Of Nearly 30,000 Schoolteachers Or Firefighters This week, the Joint Economic Committee (JEC) – Minority issued a new report with calculations that find that President Trump’s vanity projects – including construction of the new White House ballroom and the no-bid contract to paint the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, among others – are expected to cost more than $1.8 billion. Using this total, the Committee created an Interactive Cost Calculator where users can explore how this $1.8 billion could instead be spent to lower costs and help the American people. In response to the new report that highlights President Trump’s egregiously misplaced priorities, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement: “The president of the United States serves the people, not the other way around. Right now, working families are struggling to afford groceries, gas, and sky-high health care bills. They want their president bringing down costs and putting money back in their pockets, not wasting time and taxpayer dollars on self-serving insanity. I urge this administration to end its wasteful spending and instead support the working families who are paying the price for the president’s absurdity.” Key examples from the report of what $1.8 billion for Trump’s vanity projects could instead pay for include: More than 600 million school lunches About 12 million people’s electric bills for one month The medical expenditures for more than 88,000 veterans for one year The hiring of more than 27,000 schoolteachers or 29,000 firefighters More than 35 million tanks of gas for a typical sedan While President Trump pledged not to use taxpayer dollars for construction of his White House ballroom, he then broke that promise by using funds for the Secret Service to pay for parts of the ballroom. He also continues to oversee new projects and events – including his proposed Triumphal Arch, the retrofit of the new Qatari Air Force One plane, and more – that require considerable funding. Senator Gillibrand has been fighting back against President Trump’s vanity projects and self-promotion at taxpayers’ expense. In April, she introduced the Halting Unilateral Money and Building Labeling by Egotistical (HUMBLE) Presidents Act, which would bar the use of a sitting president’s name, image, likeness, or signature to decorate or designate federal property, assets, or currency. She has also highlighted how the $1 billion Republicans sought for the president’s ballroom could instead support law enforcement across the country, and called out how President Trump and congressional Republicans have made life $5,000+ more expensive for average households in New York. Find the Committee’s full report here and explore the Interactive Cost Calculator here. ###",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/ahead-of-import-ban-on-some-canadian-products-gillibrand-demands-passage-of-bill-to-repeal-and-refund-president-trumps-tariffs-against-canada/,"Ahead Of Import Ban On Some Canadian Products, Gillibrand Demands Passage Of Bill To Repeal And Refund President Trump’s Tariffs Against Canada",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Gillibrand’s Legislation Would Also Halt The Import Ban On Certain Canadian Dairy Products, Alcohol, and Other Goods, Which Is Set To Go Into Effect Next Week Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) held a virtual press conference demanding passage of her legislation to curb President Trump’s costly trade war with Canada. This comes less than a week before a sweeping import ban on Canadian dairy products, alcohol, and motorcycles is set to take effect. Senator Gillibrand’s legislation, the Banning Antiquated Duties and Delivering Equitable American Levies (BAD DEAL) Act, would repeal all tariffs levied under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 and refund Americans for all duties paid under this authority. This includes President Trump’s 50% tariffs on Canada as well as his forthcoming import ban on Canadian goods. “President Trump and Republicans promised to lower costs and make life more affordable, but they’ve used their total power in Washington to make life more expensive than ever,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Let’s be clear: the latest tariffs and impending import ban on Canadian goods are a bad deal for New York families. I’m doing everything I can to halt these tariffs and lower costs for New York families.” President Trump’s trade war with Canada is driving up prices and harming New York families. Canada is one of New York State’s largest export markets for both goods and services, and the state imports more than $20 billion annually from Canada. Already, New York families have spent over $5,500 more due to President Trump’s tariff chaos and other reckless policies. The new 50% tariffs on Canada are projected to cost businesses and households across the U.S. up to $10 billion annually. Senator Gillibrand introduced the BAD DEAL Act last week alongside Senator Peter Welch (D-VT). Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) also cosponsor the bill, and Rep. Brad Schneider (D-IL-10) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives in August. Senator Gillibrand has opposed President Trump’s tariffs since the start of his administration and worked tirelessly to get the American people their money back. Last year, she joined 14 of her colleagues in introducing the Small Business RELIEF Act to end Trump’s Tariff Tax and refund small businesses their duties paid. In March, she and her colleagues introduced the Small Business Liberation 2.0 Act to exempt small businesses from another set of Trump-imposed tariffs and refund what they had already paid. The full text of the BAD DEAL Act can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-introduces-legislation-to-streamline-law-enforcement-and-protect-public-safety-on-seneca-nation-land/,Gillibrand Introduces Legislation To Streamline Law Enforcement And Protect Public Safety On Seneca Nation Land,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Legislation Would Address A 1948 Federal Law That Granted New York State Criminal Jurisdiction Over Seneca Nation Territory, Fix Termination-Era Law Enforcement Model Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand introduced the Seneca Nation Law Enforcement Efficiency Act. The bill would establish a legal mechanism to end a 1948 federal law that granted New York State criminal jurisdiction over Seneca Nation territory, helping to resolve overlapping responsibilities between federal, state, and Tribal authorities. In order to eliminate legal confusion and strengthen public safety, the Seneca Nation Law Enforcement Efficiency Act makes clear that the Seneca Nation and the U.S. attorney general must jointly agree in writing to end New York State’s criminal jurisdiction over Seneca land once the bill has been signed into law. This would give the Seneca Nation a path to more fully pursue their self-determination and self-governance on their Tribal lands. “The Seneca Nation Law Enforcement Efficiency Act is a crucial first step in fixing a Termination-era law enforcement model that has existed for the last 78 years,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Seneca Nation has suffered as a result, and now is Congress’ chance to right historic wrongs and end New York State’s automatic jurisdiction over Seneca lands. This bill will enhance public safety and respect Tribal sovereignty.” “The lack of clear and effective law enforcement and criminal jurisdiction on our lands has created an environment where drug dealers, drug traffickers and other criminals have thrived at the expense of the safety of the Seneca people,” said Seneca Nation President J. Conrad Seneca. “The current archaic system of New York State jurisdiction puts our people in danger. Restoring the federal government’s treaty responsibility to work with the Seneca Nation to provide law enforcement represents a major step forward in protecting our people and our territories. We appreciate Senator Gillibrand’s willingness to listen to our concerns and work with us to introduce this important legislation in the Senate. We will not relent in our efforts to make enhanced public safety a reality on Seneca Nation lands.” “This outdated jurisdictional framework has created real-world public safety problems,” said Congressman Nick Langworthy. “Our men and women in law enforcement are doing the best they can under challenging circumstances, but when authority is fragmented and accountability is unclear, resourceful criminals exploit the gaps and that’s exactly what we’ve seen happen. This legislation provides a targeted solution that respects tribal sovereignty, preserves federal oversight, and ensures that any change occurs only with mutual agreement. Most importantly, it will make our communities safer, and that is a goal we all share.” More than 8,500 enrolled Seneca citizens live in New York State. For generations, the Seneca people have lived in the Finger Lakes and Genesee Valley regions of New York State and now reside in large portions of Western New York on the Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Oil Spring territories, including the cities of Buffalo and Niagara Falls. Congressman Nick Langworthy (R-NY) leads similar legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill can be read HERE. ###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-secretary-of-the-navy-admission-that-8-service-members-attempted-suicide-in-the-uss-abraham-lincoln-carrier-strike-group/,Gillibrand Statement On Secretary Of The Navy Admission That 8 Service Members Attempted Suicide In The USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Trump Dismissed Previous Concerns About Ship Conditions And Soldiers’ Well-Being As “Fake News” Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, released the following statement regarding the September 22 response letter she received from Acting United States Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao in which he confirmed that 8 sailors in the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group had attempted suicide. This came after administration officials and the president dismissed families’ and soldiers’ complaints about conditions on board the ship. The response follows the August 2026 letter that Gillibrand and 14 of her colleagues sent to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth calling for transparency after reporting detailed dismal conditions for sailors on board the USS Abraham Lincoln. “What Trump and Secretary Hegseth dismissed as ‘fake news’ turned out to be serious and deteriorating conditions for our service members,” said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. “Our troops and their families make immense sacrifices every single day, yet the president dismissed them with open disrespect. That this administration can find endless taxpayer dollars for bombs, ballrooms, and billionaires, but cannot take care of our service members, is completely unacceptable.” In the response letter, Acting Secretary Cao wrote, “Since the beginning of Lincoln’s deployment, there have been a total of eight suicide attempts across the strike group – this number includes the Lincoln crew and Sailors from the carrier air wing, strike group and destroyer squadron staff, escorting destroyers, and all embarked aviation squadrons.” The letter detailed one particular suicide attempt, in which “one Sailor attempted to go overboard in March and was stopped by his shipmates. That Sailor was also provided immediate medical care and subsequently returned to homeport.” The full response can be read HERE. ###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-schumer-blast-trump-administration-for-politicizing-disaster-assistance-and-denying-aid-for-february-blizzard/,"Gillibrand, Schumer Blast Trump Administration For Politicizing Disaster Assistance And Denying Aid For February Blizzard",2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Yesterday, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) condemned the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for politicizing disaster assistance following its second unexplained denial of Governor Hochul’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration in the wake of the February 2026 blizzard in New York. The storm brought record snowfall, whiteout conditions, and coastal flooding to downstate New York, resulting in increased expenditure of state and local resources to help communities recover from the disastrous conditions. The relief provided by the declaration would have alleviated the financial burden that counties and the state took on to mitigate the impacts of the storm. Governor Hochul’s request included Public Assistance for Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties, Snow Assistance for Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Queens, Richmond, Suffolk, and Westchester Counties, and Hazard Mitigation for the entire state. In a letter to the FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton, the senators called out FEMA’s July 2, 2026 denial of Hochul’s initial request, which did not provide any reasoning or justification. In fact, according to public reporting, administration officials had determined that the request met federal standards for approval, but President Trump himself denied it regardless. The senators wrote, “Reporting reveals that the regional offices at FEMA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) determined that the February blizzard met the threshold and standards for a disaster declaration for a record-breaking snowstorm. Disturbingly, the same reporting shows that President Trump chose to overrule the findings of his own agencies, in a move that can only be described as political.” After Governor Hochul appealed the denial, FEMA again refused her request with no explanation on September 2, 2026. The senators expressed their concern over the administration’s blatant political weaponization of federal disaster assistance, writing, “President Trump and this administration have the wrong priorities. Since taking office in his second term, President Trump has disproportionately denied or delayed approval of requests for federal disaster aid from states led by Democrats. Instead of helping all Americans to recover from record-breaking natural disasters, it is clear the President is turning his back to the millions of hard-working New Yorkers.” The senators concluded the letter by calling for full transparency around the Major Disaster Declaration denials. They requested that FEMA provide them with its analysis and reasoning for both the initial denial of Governor Hochul’s request and the denial of her appeal by October 5, 2026. The full text of the letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-schumer-announce-over-1-4-million-in-disaster-recovery-funding-for-new-york-state/,"Gillibrand, Schumer Announce Over $1.4 Million In Disaster Recovery Funding For New York State",2026-09-22,2026,2026-09,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, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer announced $1,466,049 in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grants for New York State. This federal funding will support ongoing disaster relief and recovery efforts following the COVID-19 pandemic and other severe weather and fire events across the state. Of these funds, more than $1 million is dedicated to repairing critical infrastructure damaged by severe weather and fires, and more than $400,000 will reimburse hospitals and health networks for pandemic-related emergency measures. “As New York continues to face the impacts of severe weather and disaster events, as well as continued costs associated with pandemic recovery, I am proud to deliver this critical federal funding for communities across the state,” said Senator Gillibrand. “These grants will be used to repair infrastructure across our cities and reimburse medical facilities for emergency measures they took to combat COVID-19. I will keep pushing for funding that helps ensure New Yorkers are protected from further catastrophes.” “From helping communities recover from the COVID-19 pandemic to repairing infrastructure after severe storms, this $1.4 million in FEMA funding will support communities across New York,” said Senator Chuck Schumer. “I’ve long fought to ensure New Yorkers have the resources they need to recover from catastrophes, and I’m proud to deliver this funding today to help build a safer, more resilient future for New York.” The offices of Senator Gillibrand and Schumer will continue to monitor the distribution of these funds to ensure they are delivered efficiently to the impacted communities.",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-celebrates-6-million-investment-for-food-bank-for-nycs-hunts-point-food-distribution-center/,Gillibrand Celebrates $6 Million Investment For Food Bank For NYC’s Hunts Point Food Distribution Center,2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,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, member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, stood with Bronx elected officials and Food Bank For NYC to celebrate the $6 million she secured for major renovations and modernization of Food Bank For NYC’s Hunts Point Food Distribution Center in the Bronx. “Food Bank For NYC distributes millions of pounds of food to families, seniors, and other New Yorkers in need each year,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I’m proud to have led the effort to secure $6 million in federal funding to support the comprehensive renovation and expansion of the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center, and I’m committed to fighting for more federal resources to expand access to healthy and nutritious food, promote local job creation, and help New Yorkers thrive.” “This incredible investment in Food Bank For New York City’s Hunts Point warehouse is a commitment to addressing food insecurity and expanding access to nutritious food in communities that need it most,” said New York State Senator Jose M. Serrano. “This critical funding will strengthen our local food distribution infrastructure, helping ensure that Bronx families have reliable access to healthy food while improving the health and well-being of our communities. As the Senator of the 29th Senate District, I am grateful to Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and our fellow elected officials for securing this important investment for our communities.” “Hunts Point is not only the heart of New York City’s food system; it is critical infrastructure that millions of New Yorkers depend on every day,” said New York State Assemblymember Amanda Septimo. “This $6 million investment will strengthen that infrastructure, expand Food Bank For New York City’s ability to get millions more pounds of food to families, and ensure The Bronx continues to lead the fight against hunger across our city. At a moment when families are feeling enormous pressure at the grocery store, investments that increase our capacity to feed New Yorkers could not be more important.” “I grew up here in the South Bronx, raised by a single mother who relied on food distributions powered by Food Bank For New York City to help us get by,” said Council Member Justin E. Sanchez. “At a time when the White House is determined to cut programs that feed New Yorkers their work is more important than ever. Senator Gillibrand’s outstanding investment will strengthen the Food Bank’s infrastructure, expand its capacity, and help ensure it can meet this moment as more New Yorkers are forced to turn to its network for support.” “We are grateful to Senator Gillibrand for her support of vital federal food and nutrition programs and for helping secure this $6 million investment in Food Bank For New York City’s Hunts Point Food Distribution Center,” said Bob Silvia, Chief Procurement and Operations Officer at Food Bank For NYC. “Investments in both nutrition assistance programs and food distribution infrastructure are essential to ensuring that families can access food when they need it most.” “This $6 million investment will modernize critical infrastructure at Food Bank for NYC’s Hunts Point Food Distribution Center, strengthening our city’s ability to deliver fresh, nutritious food to our families who need it most,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Even as this White House administration cuts critical funding to social safety net programs, I am proud to see our federal legislators standing up for everyday New Yorkers and supporting projects that will help us combat hunger in our communities. Thank you to Senator Gillibrand for her advocacy and continued commitment to bringing federal resources to the Bronx.” Food Bank For NYC is the city’s largest hunger relief organization, and its 90,000 square foot Hunts Point Distribution Center is the city’s largest hunger relief logistics hub. Last year, more than 90 million pounds of food was distributed through the Food Bank For NYC network, including nearly 31 million pounds of produce. Since 2019, visits to New York City food pantries have increased by 82%. Meanwhile the Trump administration has slashed the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and caused prices for groceries to skyrocket. More than 1.6 million people in New York City rely on SNAP, but with new expanded work requirements and eligibility rules, 223,000 New Yorkers are at risk of losing food assistance. Additionally, with the federal government shifting substantial SNAP costs to states, New York State, counties, and the city will be on the hook for an estimated $1.3 billion in administrative and benefits costs annually. ###",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-celebrates-ge-aerospace-225-million-investment-in-aerospace-research-center-creating-75-new-good-paying-jobs-in-capital-region,"SCHUMER CELEBRATES GE AEROSPACE $225 MILLION INVESTMENT IN AEROSPACE RESEARCH CENTER, CREATING 75 NEW, GOOD-PAYING JOBS IN CAPITAL REGION",2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Major New Investment Upgrades Research Equipment And Modernizes Infrastructure To Support Next-Gen Aerospace Research Schumer Has Long History Of Supporting GE’s Growth And Boosting Upstate New York As Leader In Aerospace Technology Research Schumer: The Sky Is The Limit For Capital Region’s Workforce! Following his continued advocacy to boost Upstate New York as a leader in aerospace technology research and manufacturing, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today celebrated GE Aerospace’s $225 million investment in its Niskayuna facility, which is expected to create 75 new good-paying jobs over five years. Schumer explained that GE Aerospace will modernize the research facility, upgrading the Aerospace Research Center with new advanced research equipment and improved infrastructure needed to support the center’s cutting-edge work developing next-generation technological breakthroughs. “GE Aerospace’s new $225 million investment in Niskayuna, along with 75 high-skilled, good-paying jobs, shows the sky is the limit for our top-notch workforce. I have long supported GE Aerospace’s growth in Upstate New York and am thrilled that the workforce expansion of GE Aerospace Research in Niskayuna – and upgrades to the campus – are on their way to the Capital Region,” said Senator Schumer. “Investments like this are key to ensuring that cutting-edge aerospace technology research is happening at home in places like Schenectady County. I will keep fighting to support investments in the equipment we need to strengthen New York’s research and manufacturing leadership.” The planned $225 million investment will support research in AI, autonomy, robotics, advanced materials, future manufacturing, hypersonic propulsion, and hybrid electric flight. The Niskayuna campus has been a leader in technology development for more than 75 years and is driving innovation in aerospace technology research. The investment is projected to create 75 new good-paying jobs over the next five years, in addition to short-term construction jobs, and will also protect the jobs of scientists, engineers, researchers, and skilled laborers already employed at the facility. The facility will continue to support advanced technology projects, some funded by the federal government. Schumer added, “This investment is about building the future of aerospace—advancing cutting-edge research, bringing next-gen technologies to life, and creating 75 good-paying jobs. It’s an investment in the ideas and talent that will take aerospace innovation to new heights. I applaud GE Aerospace for its commitment to Upstate New York.” Schumer has a long history of supporting GE Vernova and GE Aerospace’s work in Upstate New York. In 2023, following his advocacy, Schumer announced that GE Vernova would create 200 new good-paying jobs, including skilled union operators and manufacturing engineers, while investing $50 million at its Schenectady, NY, facility to establish a new manufacturing line for its onshore wind business. In 2024, Schumer visited Unison, a GE Aerospace company, in Norwich to highlight over $3.4 million in local investment to modernize the plant, purchase new machines, and make major upgrades to the Southern Tier facility. In the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) appropriations bill, Senator Schumer secured $40 million for GE Aerospace’s integrated hypersonic propulsion technology project with the Air Force, supporting the development and maturation of sensors and mission-critical future-of-flight technologies for the Air Force developed at GE Aerospace Research in Niskayuna, Unison in Norwich, and Innoveering in Bohemia. GE Aerospace is a leading provider of jet engines, components, and systems for commercial and military aircraft with a global service network to support these offerings. GE Aerospace and its joint ventures have an installed base of more than 44,000 commercial and 26,000 military aircraft engines, and the business is playing a vital role in shaping the future of flight. ###",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-stands-with-new-york-centers-against-proposed-federal-changes-to-head-start-that-threaten-programs-serving-roughly-40000-new-york-children,"SCHUMER STANDS WITH NEW YORK CENTERS AGAINST PROPOSED FEDERAL CHANGES TO HEAD START THAT THREATEN PROGRAMS SERVING ROUGHLY 40,000 NEW YORK CHILDREN",2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"New York Providers Warn That Federal Changes Could Weaken Head Start Programs And Put Essential Services For Families At Risk Schumer Leads Senate Democrats Against Changes That Could Lower Head Start Quality Standards And Hurt New York Families Schumer: Head Start Is Under Attack. We Must Protect It. After a new federal proposal was released earlier this summer that threatens Head Start programs in New York and across the country, U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer today rallied against the proposed rule with the support of providers from across Upstate New York. Schumer explained the proposed rule would dismantle Head Start by gutting quality standards that ensure that America’s most vulnerable children and families have access to educational programs, medical and dental exams, developmental screenings, and nutrition services. In New York, it is estimated that the proposed rule could lead to 2,854 jobs lost, result in a $12.68 million decline in funding for health services for children and families, and force families to pay $862 more per child for additional childcare. “Roughly 40,000 children in New York benefit from access to Head Start and the early childhood education and comprehensive services it provides families. The proposed changes by the administration threaten the quality of these programs and put essential services at risk. From eliminating math and literacy requirements, to rolling back health services and developmental screenings, and reducing the allowable cap on administrative costs, the gutting of Head Start will hurt hundreds of thousands of children across the country. From DOGE to healthcare, the tendency to cut and gut, rather than to boost and build is sadly reflective of this administration’s misguided approach to governing in general,” said Senator Schumer. “That is why I’m leading Senate Democrats in the fight to stand up against this effort that undercuts Head Start and undercuts our children and makes hardworking families pay the price. We must protect Head Start and invest in New York families.” Earlier this summer, the Trump administration released a new proposal that would gut federal performance standards for Head Start. The proposed rule would eliminate federal requirements that ensure low-income families have access to school readiness resources for children from birth to age five, including, but not limited to: Eliminating staff-to-child ratios. The proposed rule eliminates federal group size and staff-to-child ratios, meaning that Head Start staff may be expected to care for up to 32% more children. Significantly reducing program hours. The proposed rule reduces the number of hours that Head Start programs are required to operate, meaning that families will be forced to find care elsewhere and spend $862 more annually per child on care. Removing requirements to provide comprehensive health care services and developmental screenings. The proposed rule removes requirements around connecting children and families with health, mental health, dental, visions, screenings, and other related support services, forcing families to find these services elsewhere and pay higher prices. Lowering the allowable cap on administrative costs from 15% to 5%. The proposed rule lowers the allowable cap that programs can spend on administrative costs from 15% to 5%, meaning that programs will be forced to bring their administrative costs (staff salary and benefits, auditing, accounting, human resources, etc.) down to 5% of their grant amount. Many programs will be forced to institute layoffs and pay cuts, and some programs may no longer find it finally viable to operate, especially small and rural programs. Head Start experts say the proposed changes would weaken the quality of Head Starts services and undermine early childhood education. Currently, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which runs Head Start programs, is holding a 60-day comment period for its proposed rule. An initial analysis based on HHS data estimate that nationally, the proposed rule means that nearly 40,000 Head Start jobs could be cut, Head Start staff could experience a 6-9% pay cut even while being expected to care for up to 32% more children, and healthcare services for children and families could be reduced by up to $167 million annually. The senator announced he will continue to lead Senate Democrats in the fight to stand up against the proposed changes to Head Start, programs that serve approximately 40,000 children in New York and over 685,000 children nationally every year. The senator said maintaining high-quality standards for Head Start programs is essential for the success of kids in New York and across the country. Schumer’s leadership has garnered the support of providers serving children across Upstate New York. In the Capital Region, there are concerns that the federal requirements could create inconsistent quality and protections across Head Start programs, resulting in different implementation standards. The Fulmont Head Start Program, which is funded to serve 182 three- and four-year-old children every year, served 213 children and families last year. ""Head Start standards are not just paperwork or regulations—they are the promise that every child, no matter their ZIP code, deserves a strong start in life. We can reduce unnecessary bureaucracy without lowering the floor of quality that families depend on. That’s why this NPRM matters: the choices we make today will shape the quality, consistency, and access of Head Start for children and families for years to come. Thank you, Senator Schumer, for taking the time to focus on this important issue and for standing up for the children, families, and communities who rely on Head Start. Your leadership and willingness to engage on this issue truly matter. We appreciate your commitment to making sure that every child has the opportunity for a strong start,"" said Denis Wilson, Sr., Executive Director/CEO of Fulmont Community Action Agency. In Western New York, federal funding reductions have already resulted in cuts, including the loss of jobs and available Head Start slots. “Community Action Organization of WNY’s Head Start and Early Head Start programs are far more than childcare; they are a comprehensive system of education, health, mental health, nutrition, disability, workforce, and family-stability services. CAO serves more than 1,000 children and families in Erie and Niagara counties. The proposed federal cuts and the removal of key Head Start requirements would significantly weaken our program quality, reduce safety and eliminate the individualized comprehensive support services, which are all the hallmark of Head Start. Head Start programs are a proven community investment that strengthens children, families, and the local workforce while promoting long-term stability. Almost 200 slots for children with disabilities would be eliminated. If enacted, cuts will absolutely force us to lay off staff, close classrooms and sites, thereby decreasing access to early childhood education in communities already facing childcare shortages. These proposed cuts are simply unconscionable: they are harmful to children, families, and communities. CAO of WNY is grateful for the continued leadership of Senator Schumer in advocating on the behalf of Head Start and the children, families and communities they serve,” said Dr. Marie Cannon, President and CEO of Community Action Organization of Western New York. ""Head Start is far more than a preschool program. It provides children and families with comprehensive services that support school readiness, health, nutrition, developmental screenings, and family stability. At Community Action of Orleans & Genesee, we see every day how these services change lives and strengthen communities. While there is significant discussion about increasing Head Start enrollment, policymakers must recognize the realities facing families in states like New York. A parent working full-time at New York's minimum wage can earn above the federal poverty guidelines used to determine Head Start eligibility, even while struggling to afford housing, childcare, transportation, and basic necessities. If the goal is to serve more children, eligibility standards must better reflect the true cost of living families face today. At the same time, proposals that weaken quality standards and drastically reduce allowable administrative costs would undermine the very elements that make Head Start effective. Our agency is already grappling with a federally imposed $912,000 Head Start funding reduction that has forced painful cuts, including the loss of valued employees. It also reduced our available Head Start slots from 244 to 194. Further weakening the program through the proposed rule would jeopardize services for vulnerable children and families across rural communities like ours. We are grateful to Senator Schumer for his continued leadership in protecting Head Start and advocating for policies that strengthen, rather than diminish, opportunities for children and families,” said Renee M. Hungerford, Executive Director/CEO, Community Action of Orleans & Genesee. In Rochester, there are concerns that changes could compromise program quality and the well-being of families. Last year, Action for a Better Community enrolled 624 children in Head Start and Early Head Start programs. “As CEO of Action for a Better Community, I am in agreement with Senator Schumer and all other elected officials who oppose the proposed Head Start rule changes. Increasing class sizes, lowering teacher qualification standards, eliminating funding for essential medical screenings, and slashing allowable administrative costs from 15% to 5% would weaken a program that is foundational to children and families in Rochester. The current performance standards should be the floor for improvement, not the ceiling. We fully support strengthening Head Start, but never at the expense of program quality or the well being of the children and families we serve,” said Jerome H. Underwood, CCAP, President & CEO, Action for a Better Community. In Central New York, Head Start providers from Syracuse to Cortland are speaking out about the damage this proposed rule could inflict on everything from program operations, outcomes, and financial viability to the health, safety, and well-being of vulnerable children and families in local communities. Last year, the People’s Equal Action and Community Effort (PEACE) and the Cortland County Community Action Program (CAPCO) collectively served more than 1,000 Head Start and Early Head Start children and families across the region. “Like others, we have been closely following the proposed adjustments to Head Start Program Performance Standards. Our core criterion for evaluating reforms that streamline administrative processes is that fewer rules cannot mean fewer results. Head Start makes the same promise to every family: that their child will be safe, healthy, and ready for school - wherever they live. All reforms must align with that promise. Regulatory changes that affect performance standards or administrative expenses must not impede PEACE, Inc.'s ability to serve more than 918 Head Start children and families in the Central New York region. We appreciate Senator Schumer’s advocacy for Head Start, its mission, and its communities,” said Carolyn D. Brown, Executive Director, People’s Equal Action and Community Effort, Inc. “CAPCO stands firmly with Senator Schumer and our fellow Head Start agencies across NY State in opposition to the proposed Reducing Federal Burden for Head Start Programs rule. A core strength of Head Start is that children and families, regardless of geography, are guaranteed access to a comprehensive and evidence-based model that addresses school readiness, health, nutrition, disabilities, and family well-being. If adopted, the proposed rule would significantly weaken federal standards that have long ensured consistent, high-quality Head Start and Early Head Start services nationwide, and that have long operated as essential safeguards for child health and safety, educational quality, and family support in Cortland County and across Central NY. Equally concerning, the proposed 5% administrative cost limit is unrealistically low for most, if not all, Head Start and Early Head Start grantees, including CAPCO. Imposing such a restrictive cap would force grantees to divert resources away from program governance, fiscal oversight, enrollment management, data systems, audit and reporting obligations, and other key infrastructure needed to operate high-quality Head Start programs. Rather than strengthening local programs, this approach would gradually erode agencies operational capacity, make compliance with federal requirements financially unsustainable for many, and ultimately risk dismantling the Head Start system through financial attrition. CAPCO is grateful to Senator Schumer for stepping up to fight for Head Start providers like us, and we join him in urging the Administration to preserve the strong federal performance standards that vulnerable children and families in our community depend upon,” said Greg Richards, Executive Director, Cortland County Community Action Program, Inc. In the Southern Tier, there are increasing concerns that the proposed changes may create unintended consequences for program quality, fiscal stability, workforce capacity, child and family access, and accountability. Last year, Pro Action of Steuben and Yates, Inc. enrolled 340 children and Opportunities for Otsego enrolled 229 children in Head Start programs. “Head Start is not simply a program—it is a promise to children and families that opportunity should not depend on income, geography, or circumstance. At Pro Action of Steuben and Yates, we see every day how Head Start and Early Head Start provide far more than early learning. These programs support school readiness, health and developmental screenings, nutrition, family engagement, and the stability parents need to work, learn, and build a stronger future for their children. While we support efforts to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy, that cannot come at the expense of the quality, safety, and comprehensive services that make Head Start effective. Proposals that increase class sizes, weaken staff qualification standards, reduce access to essential screenings and supports, or drastically limit allowable administrative costs would place significant strain on programs—especially in rural communities where families already face barriers related to transportation, workforce shortages, housing, and access to care. The current Head Start Program Performance Standards should be strengthened as a floor for quality, not lowered in a way that puts children and families at risk. We are grateful to Senator Schumer for his leadership, for listening to providers and families, and for standing up for the children, families, and communities who rely on Head Start. His willingness to engage on this issue matters deeply, and we appreciate his commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity for a strong start,” said Laura Rossman, CEO / Executive Director of Pro Action of Steuben and Yates, Inc. “While Opportunities for Otsego supports efforts to reduce burdensome and duplicative regulations, it cannot come at the expense of providing quality early childhood education programming for the children and families we serve. The proposed Head Start Performance Standard revisions undermine the core components of comprehensive services that are the foundation of Head Start. The change in the allowable administrative costs, elimination of imperative dental and health requirements, lower teacher ratios coupled with increased class size, and changes to staff qualifications will significantly impact staff retention and the quality of services that we currently offer. The reality is that we transport families over 1.5 hours to get dental services due to lack of providers in our area, get children back on track with their immunization schedules, provide two thirds of a child’s nutrition while in program, provide necessary transportation to access services in our rural county, make referrals for early intervention services and work closely with school districts to transition those services when they enter kindergarten all while providing education with evidence based curriculum that is cross walked with the New York State education system. We are charged with serving the most vulnerable populations in a fiscally responsible and data driven way and the proposed revisions will devastate our ability to employ quality staff, continue to support families holistically, and will certainly impact outcomes of this valuable program that assists families and fosters success by giving them a head start. We applaud Senator Schumer’s efforts on this issue,” said Tanya Shalor, Chief Executive Officer of Opportunities for Otsego. In the Hudson Valley, there are concerns about larger class sizes, reducing staff qualification standards, and providing less federal support. Head Start of Rockland County services more than 1,000 children and families and aims to ensure they can continue delivering the support needed to help children in the community. “Head Start of Rockland, Inc. is deeply concerned about proposed changes to the Head Start Program Performance Standards including larger class sizes, reduced staff qualification standards, and a smaller administrative cap. The more than 1,000 children in Rockland County we serve should not receive a lesser standard of education, care, health, or safety because federal requirements change. We should be strengthening the standard for the next generation by investing in the systems, professionals, and services necessary to help children thrive—not lowering the expectations that will shape our communities and our nation for generations to come,” said Vernex Harding, Executive Director of the Head Start of Rockland. Schumer has long led the fight to protect Head Start in New York State. In the FY24 budget, when the Democrats held the Senate and as the then-Senate Majority Leader, Schumer secured a $275 million increase for Head Start, totaling $12.3 billion for Head Start. Earlier in the Trump administration, Schumer fought to ensure Head Start programs would receive payments amid the federal funding freeze so they could continue their essential services in rural and underserved communities. Schumer has also fought against the Trump administration’s efforts to eliminate Head Start altogether, illegally withhold the nearly $1 billion in federal funding for Head Start, and the decision to shutter the Region 2 Head Start Office serving more than 100,000 children and families across New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Additionally, Schumer secured an $85 million increase for Head Start, totaling $12.357 billion, in the most recent FY26 federal budget. ###",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-colleagues-demand-answers-from-hegseth-on-cost-of-iran-war/,"Gillibrand, Colleagues Demand Answers From Hegseth On Cost Of Iran War",2026-09-18,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Pentagon Greatly Underestimates Cost of Iran War to Taxpayers and Families U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined 45 of her colleagues, nearly the entire Democratic caucus, in sending a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth demanding a full accounting of the costs of the ongoing war with Iran. The letter also criticized the Department of Defense (DoD) for withholding basic budget information from Congress and the American public even as U.S. casualties and taxpayer costs continue to increase. “Secretary Hegseth’s tenure at DoD continues to be marred by blatant carelessness and incompetent leadership that has endangered our troops, jeopardized our national security, and left working families paying higher costs,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Now he is asking for tens of billions more to fund President Trump’s reckless war while refusing to reveal its true cost. That is completely unacceptable, and Secretary Hegseth must be held accountable and give taxpayers a straight answer about how this administration is spending their hard-earned money.” The United States is now more than six months into a conflict President Trump initially said would last six weeks. Eighteen American servicemembers have been killed and more than 820 wounded, and over 50,000 troops are currently deployed to the Middle East. In the letter, Gillibrand and her colleagues note that deployments, including for the USS Lincoln and the 82nd Airborne, have been repeatedly extended, and that their offices have heard directly from military families worried about loved ones serving in the conflict. “At home, American taxpayers have already paid an extra $100 billion out of their pockets for higher gas and diesel prices alone and at least another $60 billion in higher costs for things like groceries, mortgages, and plane tickets as a result of the war,” the senators wrote. “Now you are asking that they pay again to fund a war of choice that Congress never authorized and the President launched with no strategic plan.” In their letter, the senators highlight the contrast between the current Pentagon’s transparency record with past wartime practice, noting that Hegseth has briefed Congress only seven times in six months and held just eight Pentagon press briefings or interviews since the war began, compared to more than 70 press briefings in the first month of the Iraq War alone. The senators also criticized the administration’s public supplemental funding request as a seven-page document offering only vague line items, in contrast to the detailed, hundred-page supplemental requests provided to Congress during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Gillibrand and the senators are requesting that the Department of Defense provide: A detailed breakdown of all direct and indirect costs of military operations against Iran to date, including damage to installations, aircraft, and equipment. A full accounting of the $67 billion supplemental request, specifying what covers past costs versus future operations. A detailed plan for how the Pentagon intends to spend the remaining $34 billion from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. “Despite asking for tens of billions of additional taxpayer dollars, you have so far failed to provide basic information on how this money has and will be spent,” the senators continued. “Congress must have access to this information to carry out our oversight responsibilities. It is the bare minimum that any American would expect in balancing their own household budget.” Senator Gillibrand has repeatedly pressed the administration to disclose the true harm of President Trump’s Iran war. In July, she called out Hegseth over the Pentagon’s inaccurate public casualty reporting, pushing for a full and accurate accounting of the human cost of the war, and demanded the release of DoD’s long-delayed investigation into the U.S. strike on an Iranian elementary school that killed more than 100 children. She also pushed for hearings after reports that service members aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln were left without adequate food and medical care. In addition to Senator Gillibrand, the letter was signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Richard Durbin (D-IL), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The full text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-09-19T09:11:33Z,2026-09-19T09:12:45Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/amid-skyrocketing-fuel-prices-and-dropping-temperatures-gillibrand-holds-press-conference-demanding-release-of-heating-assistance-funding/,"Amid Skyrocketing Fuel Prices And Dropping Temperatures, Gillibrand Holds Press Conference Demanding Release Of Heating Assistance Funding",2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,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 (D-NY) held a virtual press conference to demand that the Trump administration release funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) ahead of the cold winter months. “New Yorkers are already feeling the pain of President Trump’s economy at the grocery store, the gas pump, and the pharmacy. Now, as temperatures begin to drop, they’re getting hit again: this time at the thermostat,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Fuel prices are soaring because of President Trump’s war with Iran, and New Yorkers need help heating their homes as temperatures drop. I’m calling on the Trump administration to immediately release LIHEAP funding to help low-income New Yorkers afford their energy bills.” Last week, the price of crude oil rose to $100 per barrel for the first time since July—a direct result of President Trump’s war with Iran. That has driven up the average cost of heating oil in New York up to $6.14 per gallon, which is a 66% increase from this time last year. At the same time, President Trump’s administration has yet to release the LIHEAP funding that helps New Yorkers heat their homes in the fall and winter, which was appropriated by Congress in the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2027 earlier this month. Under this bill, New York is slated to receive an estimated $360 million in LIHEAP funds. With temperatures beginning to drop and fuel prices continuing to rise, Senator Gillibrand sent a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. demanding that the administration immediately release this funding. The full text of the letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-bipartisan-group-of-colleagues-demand-trump-administration-release-all-documents-from-u-s-saudi-nuclear-deal/,"Gillibrand, Bipartisan Group Of Colleagues Demand Trump Administration Release All Documents From U.S.-Saudi Nuclear Deal",2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,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 (D-NY) joined a bipartisan group of senators to press the Trump administration to declassify and publicly release the two side letters accompanying the proposed U.S.-Saudi civil nuclear cooperation agreement, referred to as a “123 agreement.” The Trump administration recently submitted the 123 agreement to Congress—as is required by law—but while the agreement references the side letters, the letters themselves are classified, which is unprecedented. Because the side letters affect the obligations and operation of the underlying agreement, Congress and the public cannot fully assess what the United States and Saudi Arabia have agreed to without seeing them. “Transparency is the only path to truth,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Protecting our national security is of the utmost importance, and a nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia has serious implications for it. There is no justification for hiding key parts of this agreement from the public. As part of our constitutional oversight responsibilities, we are demanding that the Trump administration declassify and release these side letters without delay so the American people get the transparency and accountability they deserve.” In their letter to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, the bipartisan group of senators wrote: “Congress has a statutory responsibility under Section 123 of the Atomic Energy Act to review the proposed nuclear deal, which seeks to facilitate nuclear cooperation with significant implications for U.S. national security interests. Access to the full text is required for the Senate and the public to have a clear understanding of the commitments being made on the nation’s behalf and those being made by Saudi Arabia to the United States.” “Transparency and open debate are cornerstones of our democracy,” the senators continued. “Congress and the American public must have a meaningful opportunity to review and debate the key components of the U.S.-Saudi nuclear deal before it potentially enters into force. To that end, we call on you to declassify and release the two side letters without delay.” Senator Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, has long fought for transparency and oversight around nuclear weapons policy. She led 26 senators in urging President Trump to preserve key nuclear arms control treaties during his first term, and earlier this year, she introduced legislation that would bring much-needed oversight to the military’s use of AI, including banning its use to launch nuclear weapons. She also demanded that the Trump administration give Congress a full intelligence briefing on its strikes last year against Iran’s nuclear facilities. In addition to Senator Gillibrand, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Edward Markey (D-MA), Rand Paul (R-KY), John Kennedy (R-LA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Patty Murray (D-WA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Peter Welch (D-VT). The full text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/after-his-advocacy-schumer-announces-nearly-300000-for-the-town-of-hamden-to-make-major-repairs-to-roads-severely-damaged-by-tropical-storm-debby,"AFTER HIS ADVOCACY, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES NEARLY $300,000 FOR THE TOWN OF HAMDEN TO MAKE MAJOR REPAIRS TO ROADS SEVERELY DAMAGED BY TROPICAL STORM DEBBY",2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"In 2024, Tropical Storm Debby Devastated Communities Across The Southern Tier & Upstate New York, Schumer Says New Federal Funding Will Help Town Upgrade Roads & Critical Infrastructure Schumer Will Continue To Advocate For More Federal Investment To Ensure Town Has Resources Needed To Complete Project And Protect Local Taxpayers From Shouldering Crushing Costs of Storm Recovery Schumer: Fed $$ Puts Hamden On Road To Recovery! Following his advocacy, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today announced $294,773.51 for the Town of Hamden to fund major repairs following Tropical Storm Debby. For nearly two years, the Town of Hamden has worked diligently with FEMA to advance its over $5 million request for disaster assistance and mitigation funding. Schumer said this grant is a key first step towards ensuring Hamden residents have the federal assistance they need to support critical repairs to their roads and mitigation efforts to protect the community from future flooding events. Schumer vowed to continue fighting to unlock the other federal support needed to rebuild and strengthen the community’s resilience. “I’m proud to deliver nearly $300,000 in federal funding needed for the Town of Hamden to repair roads damaged by Tropical Storm Debby. This investment will help restore safe and reliable roads for residents,” said Senator Schumer. “The community deserves to see these roads repaired without taxpayers having to shoulder the costs of storm recovery, and I’m proud to have helped make this first step a reality. I’ll keep fighting to deliver the remaining funding the Town needs to rebuild stronger and weather the storms ahead.” Schumer explained that because of flooding during the storm, the town saw severe damage along portions of Chamber Hollows Road, East Brook Road, and many other ditches and shoulders. Schumer said this funding will help keep the Town of Hamden and local taxpayers from bearing the costs of repair projects that were necessary for protecting the town’s infrastructure and local properties. These projects will address storm damage and make several improvements to enhance long-term resiliency. Work will replace existing metal pipes with properly sized concrete box culverts, along with new headwalls and wingwalls to provide additional structural support, improve drainage capacity, and meet New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) requirements. The project will also stabilize a failing roadside embankment where erosion has caused the bank to slide away from the roadway through the installation of soil nails. Additionally, the Town will restore damaged roadside ditches and shoulders in areas impacted by flooding, improving drainage, protecting roadways, and reducing the risk of future storm damage. Schumer’s August letter to FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton supporting federal funding for these repairs and improvements can be found HERE. Schumer said he will continue to fight for more federal funding to ensure the Town has the resources it needs to complete the full project. Schumer has been a long-standing fighter for Delaware County’s efforts to combat flood damage and natural disasters. After major storms in 2006 and 2011, Schumer advocated for federal disaster declarations on behalf of flood-impacted communities, including Delaware County, that would provide federal funding to enable places like Hamden and other communities within the county to recover and rebuild. As a result, local governments and thousands of property owners were able to apply for disaster assistance following these storms. In the aftermath of the 2006 flooding, Schumer successfully secured approval from FEMA to bring in temporary housing units for displaced residents, including those in Delaware County. In 2008, Schumer secured $300,000 in the Fiscal Year 2008 Appropriations Bill funding for flood protection measures in the Village of Sidney, which included infrastructure repairs to village pump stations and flap gates. With communities like Delaware County in mind, he helped author the provision in the Federal Disaster Aid Bill in 2012 that provided $200 million in Economic Development Administration (EDA) funding to help fund key economic growth projects in counties hammered by natural disasters. Schumer then secured $3.8 million from that provision for the Delaware County IDA. This funding provided critical support to relocate Amphenol Aerospace, keeping them in the community and saving over 950 jobs. Schumer's efforts to secure disaster declarations unlocked the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (MPMG) fund, which brought nearly $7 million to local efforts to buy out over 100 flood-damaged properties in the Lower River Street neighborhood in Sidney for flood mitigation. In 2025, Schumer demanded that FEMA immediately reverse its decision to cancel federal funding for the Sidney Culvert Project, critical for mitigating flooding in the Village of Sidney, helping save lives, and reducing the damage and costs from flooding caused by extreme weather events. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-colleagues-issue-statement-on-continued-commitment-to-pass-clarity-act/,"Gillibrand, Colleagues Issue Statement On Continued Commitment To Pass CLARITY Act",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Tonight, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) issued the following statement regarding the CLARITY Act: “Democrats have spent the last two years working to pass crypto legislation that would expand opportunity, protect consumers, punish bad actors, create regulatory certainty, and include strong, commonsense ethics provisions for elected officials. “This week was a setback, but not the end of that important work. We remain committed to working in a bipartisan fashion to get this legislation passed.” ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-holds-first-ever-congressional-hearing-on-menopause/,Gillibrand Holds First Ever Congressional Hearing On Menopause,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"**Watch The Hearing Here** Today, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Rick Scott (R-FL), ranking member and chairman of the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, held the first ever congressional hearing on menopause. At the hearing, expert witnesses testified about the urgent need to improve menopause research, training, and care. Additionally, Gillibrand and Scott made a bipartisan request to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate how the federal government currently coordinates and funds menopause research and care. “Menopause impacts over half of our population, and the fact that Congress has never held a hearing on it is absolutely disgraceful,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Today’s hearing was a critical step toward getting this issue front and center so that we can find the best ways to improve research, training, and care for women experiencing menopause. I am committed to working with all of my colleagues—men and women, Democrats and Republicans—to meet the moment on menopause.” Menopause is one of the most under-researched, undertreated, and underdiagnosed fields of medicine. Women in midlife make up about a third of the U.S. population. However, less than 1% of federal women’s health research funding is allocated to menopause. Additionally, 80% of OB-GYN residents admit to being ill-prepared to discuss menopause—meaning that women who seek medical care for symptoms of menopause are often left untreated. The lack of treatment for menopause also has massive economic implications. A study by the Mayo Clinic found that menopause costs the U.S. economy $26.6 billion per year, including $1.8 billion in lost work time alone. One in ten women leave the workforce because of menopause, taking decades of knowledge and experience with them. Gillibrand and Scott’s bipartisan letter to GAO requests a report on the federal government’s role in menopause care and research. This report will help us better understand remaining gaps in menopause-related research, education, and treatment, and what the federal government can do to address these gaps. The text of the letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/icymi-gillibrand-joins-leaders-of-ny-food-banks-to-call-out-trump-administrations-massive-cuts-to-federal-snap-funding/,ICYMI: Gillibrand Joins Leaders Of NY Food Banks To Call Out Trump Administration’s Massive Cuts To Federal Snap Funding,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"***Watch News12’s Coverage of Senator Gillibrand’s Press Conference Here*** New York State Will Be Responsible for Estimated $168 Million More Annually as SNAP Cost Responsibilities Shift to State and Local Governments In case you missed it, on Monday, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand stood with CEOs from food banks around the state to call out the change in Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” that will imminently shift billions of dollars in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cost responsibilities from the federal government onto state and local governments, resulting in major financial burdens on New York State. This comes as President Trump’s reckless war in Iran and chaotic tariffs have raised grocery prices for New York families and made it increasingly difficult to put food on the table. “President Trump has consistently threatened and cut the essential services that serve as the backbone of our nation,” said Senator Gillibrand. “At a time when people can barely afford a cart of groceries or a tank of gas, this president is making states and localities bear excruciating cost burdens for SNAP programming while he is funding tax cuts for the richest people in the country and pouring billions into a war overseas.” The change, which is slated to take effect on October 1 and is part of a broader slate of harmful cuts to the SNAP program, will reduce the federal share of SNAP administrative expenses from 50% to 25%, with states and localities now responsible for covering 75% costs. Counties in New York State are expected to be on the hook for $168 million annually as a result. “It’s a cut that we’re really going to struggle to weather,” City Harvest CEO Jilly Stephens told News12. More than 2.7 million New Yorkers rely on SNAP to feed their families each month. Without this additional federal support, counties across the state may be forced to raise local taxes or slow down the review of SNAP applications. “You can think about it in terms of funding, but how we want you to think about it is less food on tables, and less food in lunchboxes,” Kristine Borok, president and CEO of Feeding Westchester, told News12. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-applauds-finalized-ibm-investment-spurred-by-1-billion-from-his-chips-and-science-law-to-build-next-generation-quantum-fab-at-albany-nanotech,SCHUMER APPLAUDS FINALIZED IBM INVESTMENT SPURRED BY $1 BILLION FROM HIS CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW TO BUILD NEXT-GENERATION QUANTUM FAB AT ALBANY NANOTECH,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,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 Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer today applauded the finalization of the U.S. Commerce Department’s agreement to award up to $1 billion in federal CHIPS R&D funding, combined with an additional $1 billion in investment from IBM, to form a new entity to operate a secure 300mm quantum wafer fab at Albany NanoTech: “I’m thrilled that IBM has finalized and fully secured up to $1 billion in federal funding to launch a brand-new, cutting-edge quantum business in the Capital Region. After years of advocacy, this major investment further cements Upstate New York as the center of this critical industry and will ensure that the world’s most advanced quantum technologies are made in the Capital Region,” said Senator Schumer. “I’m proud that Upstate communities continue to directly benefit from the billions in federal R&D funds I secured in my CHIPS and Science Law. We’re creating good-paying jobs, building next generation technologies, and making sure that America leads the world, not China.” IBM and the U.S. Department of Commerce are each expected to contribute $1 billion to create a new business to operate a state-of-the-art 300mm quantum wafer fab at Albany NanoTech. IBM will also contribute significant intellectual property, assets, and workforce to the new fab to solidify American leadership in the quantum industry, which is expected to generate $850 billion by 2030. Schumer has worked for years to highlight Albany NanoTech and the Capital Region’s ability to lead the country’s semiconductor and broader technology research and development efforts. Albany NanoTech will be one of two public facilities in the world that have a High NA Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography tool, and the only publicly-owned High NA EUV Center in North America. Schumer explained that the new state-of-the-art EUV facility at Albany NanoTech will help the United States establish dominance in advanced semiconductor research and development, including for quantum technology that today’s CHIPS R&D announcement is supporting. The new $10 billion High NA EUV Lithography Center at Albany NanoTech, made possible with a $1 billion investment from Governor Hochul and New York State, hit a critical milestone earlier this year with the beginning of the installation of Tokyo Electron’s leading-edge 300mm wafer coater/developer system. Albany NanoTech’s world-renowned capabilities were also central to Schumer and Governor Hochul’s successful effort to secure Micron’s massive $100+ billion megafab project in Upstate NY, with Micron saying Albany NanoTech was a critical factor in their selection of Central NY for their major investment to bring advanced memory chip manufacturing to the U.S. Thanks to Schumer’s efforts and new investments spurred by his CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate NY has become a central hub for America’s semiconductor research and manufacturing. Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. In addition to more than $1 billion in CHIPS funding for GlobalFoundries to construct a second, state-of-the-art fab and create a first-of-its-kind advanced chip packaging facility, GlobalFoundries earlier this summer received a letter of intent from the Department of Commerce to award up to $300 million in CHIPS funding for accelerating domestic silicon photonics research and development to support artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure and just last week finalized an agreement for up to $375 million in CHIPS funding to launch Quantum Technology Solutions, a new quantum business within GlobalFoundries that will position America at the forefront of technology innovation. Micron has broken ground on a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab in Central New York with the support of an over $6 billion CHIPS agreement. Corning Incorporated finalized a $32 million agreement to make a $315 million investment that would increase production at its Canton facility of specialized glass vital for the semiconductor industry. Edwards Vacuum is nearing completion of a new first-of-its-kind-in-the-country $300+ million dry pump manufacturing facility, supported by an $18 million CHIPS funding award. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand its facilities in Onondaga County, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs, supported by $30 million in federal investment that Schumer delivered. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build its microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new, good-paying jobs. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-astronomical-38-billion-cost-of-the-iran-war/,Gillibrand Statement On Astronomical $38 Billion Cost Of The Iran War,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, in response to Congress’ nonpartisan scorekeeper releasing its finding that the war in Iran has cost taxpayers $38 billion so far, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement: “Donald Trump is wasting billions of taxpayer dollars fighting a reckless war of choice overseas while working families are paying the price. Americans need relief from sky-high inflation, but this administration is focused instead on dropping bombs, building ballrooms, and appeasing billionaires. This war is an astronomically expensive disaster that is driving up the cost of gas, groceries, and other everyday essentials that we rely on. I won’t stop fighting to end it and hold this administration accountable for their reckless, dangerous actions.” ###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/sens-gillibrand-and-welch-rep-schneider-introduce-bill-to-repeal-and-refund-president-trumps-canadian-tariffs/,"Sens. Gillibrand And Welch, Rep. Schneider Introduce Bill To Repeal And Refund President Trump’s Canadian Tariffs",2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"**WATCH: Gillibrand Discusses the BAD DEAL Act on CNN** Today, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Peter Welch (D-VT) formally introduced the Banning Antiquated Duties and Delivering Equitable American Levies (BAD DEAL) Act to repeal all tariffs levied under Section 338 of the Tariff Act and refund Americans for all duties paid under this authority. This includes President Trump’s 50% tariffs on Canada. Gillibrand previously announced the bill in August, when Rep. Brad Schneider (D-IL-10) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) also cosponsor the bill. A trade war with Canada will be detrimental to New York’s economy. Canada is one of New York State’s largest export markets for both goods and services, and the state imports more than $20 billion annually from Canada. Already, New York families have spent over $5,500 more due to President Trump’s tariff chaos and other reckless policies. These new 50% tariffs on Canada are projected to cost businesses and households across the U.S. up to $10 billion annually. “President Trump and Republicans promised to lower costs and make life more affordable, but they’ve used their total power in Washington to make life more expensive than ever,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Let’s be clear: the latest tariffs against Canada are a bad deal for New York families. I’m proud to introduce this legislation to end these costly tariffs and refund Americans. It’s past time for President Trump to stop the political games, get back to the negotiation table, and make a deal that lowers costs and strengthens our economy.” “No good will come of this trade war with Canada. The only thing these tariffs will create is economic pain on both sides of the border, especially for Vermont and the other 33 states that rely on Canada as their largest trading partner,” said Senator Welch. “Imposing on-again, off-again tariffs is the opposite of how we should treat our close friends and longtime allies, but it’s endemic to how the Trump Administration operates. I’m proud to join my colleagues in leading the BAD DEAL Act to repeal these reckless tariffs and reclaim Congress’ constitutional role in setting our trade policy.” “Canada is Illinois’ largest trading partner. The costly tariffs imposed under Section 338 by Trump hurt everyone and help no one,” said Rep. Schneider. “American families are actively struggling to make ends meet and have had enough of President Trump’s trade war. I’m proud to join my colleagues to introduce the BAD DEAL Act to repeal this outdated tariff authority and issue the refunds Americans deserve. We must rein in Trump’s chaotic and cost-raising tariffs now before he damages our relationship with our friends and neighbors for years to come.” The president’s tariffs have previously been found to be unconstitutional and have already raised costs on New Yorkers. Poll after poll after poll have found that a resounding majority of Americans oppose Trump’s tariffs actions that have raised prices and hurt their families. Senator Gillibrand has opposed President Trump’s tariffs since the start of his administration and worked tirelessly to get the American people their money back. Last year, she joined 14 of her colleagues in introducing the Small Business RELIEF Act to end Trump’s Tariff Tax and refund small businesses their duties paid. In March, she and her colleagues introduced the Small Business Liberation 2.0 Act to exempt small businesses from another set of Trump-imposed tariffs and refund what they had already paid. The full text of the BAD DEAL Act can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/watch-gillibrand-demands-immediate-action-on-artificial-intelligence-tariffs-and-menopause-care-in-cnn-interview/,"Watch: Gillibrand Demands Immediate Action On Artificial Intelligence, Tariffs, And Menopause Care In CNN Interview",2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"***Watch Senator Gillibrand’s Full Interview Here*** Today, in an interview on CNN’s The Situation Room, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) called for immediate congressional action on regulating artificial intelligence, repealing President Trump’s 50% tariffs on Canada, and providing sufficient healthcare to the millions of American women going through menopause. The interview follows Senator Gillibrand introducing the BAD DEAL Act to repeal and refund Trump’s 50% Canadian tariffs, and it comes ahead of the first ever congressional hearing on menopause that Gillibrand, ranking member of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, is holding tomorrow. Footage of Senator Gillibrand’s interview with Pamela Brown can be found here. Transcripts of key moments can be found below: ON THE URGENT NEED FOR CONGRESS TO PLACE GUARDRAILS ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE THAT PUT HUMANITY FIRST: GILLIBRAND: We need urgent engagement now. We need to be able to have rules of the road, we need to be able to have reliable guardrails, and we need to be able to be talking to these AI companies regularly about how to do this well, how to maintain our leadership, how to maintain the ability to cure cancer and cure disease, and have massive breakthroughs. But we also need to make sure we’re investing in America. We need to make sure we are investing the wealth of AI into a jobs guarantee, into healthcare and education. We need to make sure that we have a plan for how we deal with these models that are doing things that even the experts did not expect them able to do so soon. And so we do need that regulatory clarity now, and we need to work with AI companies. And I do not think President Trump is providing any leadership on this. He’s sold the most efficient chips to China, but again, not making sure that we have rules of the road that our own AI companies can ensure that the public is safe. BROWN: He’s calling these warnings from these AI leaders a conspiracy. I’m wondering, in your view, does Congress have the sense of urgency that is needed right now to meet this moment, given all the warnings we’re hearing from AI leaders? GILLIBRAND: I think we should begin hearings immediately. I also think we should work on a bipartisan basis to provide the guidelines and oversight that is needed. AI companies have been, many of them have been asking for this level of engagement and regulation. We’ve seen so many of the harms, but we also have so much promise, and so we want to make sure we’re at the forefront of this technology, that we are competitive, that we can cure cancer and cure other diseases, but we also want to make sure it doesn’t harm humanity, and so that means alignment has to be there. These AI models must be aligned with humanity. Humanity has to be the focus. I worked in our defense bill over the last several months to try to put a human in the loop on all systems and to make sure AI couldn’t be used for domestic surveillance. We wanted to make sure that nuclear weapons would have proper human oversight before an AI model could choose a target or push send on a nuclear weapon. We also wanted to make sure there was humans in the loop for any offensive weapons. Like, I fully understand how efficient and capable an AI system will be for defense to shoot down missiles on their way to American cities, but when you’re talking about choosing a target or deciding when to bomb or where to bomb, that should have a human oversight in all circumstances. ON GILLIBRAND’S BAD DEAL ACT TO REPEAL AND REFUND PRESIDENT TRUMP’S TARIFFS: BROWN: You and Senator Peter Welch recently introduced this act to repeal the 50% tariffs placed on Canadian goods and refund Americans for all duties paid. How will this legislation practically manage the logistics of refunding Americans, the taxes they’ve already paid. How would this work? GILLIBRAND: Well, what the bill is that Senator Welch and I have would repeal these tariffs completely. President Trump has created so much chaos in the market because of these tariffs. In Canada, this new 50% tariff is going to raise prices for New Yorkers on food, on clothing, on everyday household goods, and on building materials, which again will increase the rate of housing and how much it costs to get a better apartment to rent or to buy a home. And so we are trying to repeal those tariffs immediately because what President Trump has done is illegal and creating massive chaos in the economy for everyday New Yorkers and everyday Americans. ON GILLIBRAND HOLDING THE FIRST EVER CONGRESSIONAL HEARING ON MENOPAUSE: BROWN: Before we let you go, Senator, I want to ask you about you recently making history by convening the first ever congressional hearing on menopause through the Senate Committee on Aging. Tell us why that was so important to you to bring this issue to light. GILLIBRAND: Well, menopause is what millions of American women go through. 75 million women are either in perimenopause, menopause, or postmenopause in America today, and the inadequate amount of research and analysis and care for these women is literally disgraceful. It’s basic health care for most Americans, and because it is so underresearched and underresourced, a lot of American women don’t know how to best treat their symptoms. The symptoms can be wide-ranging to debilitating, and women have the right to get access to healthcare to make them be able to function in life, to be able to continue to work, continue to thrive, continue to provide for their families. But because of the lack of research, because of the lack of funding, because of the lack of information and availability of treatments, a lot of women needlessly suffer and are unable to live full lives. ###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-job-corps-centers-to-remain-open-after-trump-administration-fully-rescinds-plan-to-close-one-of-americas-largest-job-training-programs,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES JOB CORPS CENTERS TO REMAIN OPEN AFTER TRUMP ADMINISTRATION FULLY RESCINDS PLAN TO CLOSE ONE OF AMERICA’S LARGEST JOB TRAINING PROGRAMS,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"After Trump Attempted To Eliminate Job Corps Program, Schumer Announces Trump Admin Formally Backs Off Plan To Shut Down America’s 99 Job Corps Centers That Provide Workforce Training For Tens of Thousands of Americans Each Year Five Job Corps Centers In Upstate NY – Located In Albany, Sullivan, Orleans, Oneonta & Chautauqua – Help Workers Get Skills Needed To Access Careers In Healthcare, Construction, Manufacturing, And Other Fields Schumer: A Win-Win-Win For Students, Small Businesses, & Upstate Communities After Schumer stood at Job Corps centers across Upstate NY to lead the fight to protect one of the nation’s largest and most effective workforce training programs from Trump’s effort to eliminate it, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer announced the Trump administration has officially rescinded its plan to shut down America’s 99 Job Corps centers. A new federal settlement agreement between Job Corps and the Trump administration includes protections against the closing of Job Corps campuses and stopping of operations, among other provisions. Schumer explained that the Job Corps centers and programming help train tens of thousands of students across America each year, including thousands in New York, providing them with the skills they need to enter in-demand fields. “When the Trump administration announced that Job Corps was going to be eliminated, I got to work to protect it—traveling across Upstate New York to stand shoulder to shoulder with students, staff, and small businesses that have seen firsthand the benefits of this program. Today, I’m proud to announce that the administration has officially backed off its ill-conceived plan to close one of America’s largest workforce training programs,” said Senator Schumer. “Saving Job Corps is a win-win-win because students get the skills they need to get a good job, small businesses get the trained workforce they need to grow, and Upstate communities get a boost to their economies. Job Corps is about more than training. It’s about giving people across Upstate New York a pathway to a good-paying career, strengthening local communities, and building the healthcare, construction, and manufacturing workforce that will keep our state strong. And I’ll always fight to protect it.” After hearing about Trump’s proposed cuts, Schumer traveled to Job Corps centers across Upstate New York, from the Iroquois Job Corps center in Orleans County to the Cassadaga Job Corps center in Chautauqua County and the Oneonta Job Corps Center in Otsego County, to stand with students, staff, and small business owners and demand we protect this vital pipeline for skilled workers to fill jobs. Earlier this year, the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education funding bill rejected Trump’s call to eliminate Job Corps and instead provides $1.76 billion in federal funding to keep them open. Schumer also secured language that blocks the closure of Job Corps centers unless such closures meet specific requirements. In May 2025, Trump paused operations at Job Corps centers nationwide. Afterward, a federal judge temporarily blocked Trump from shutting down Job Corps centers, and another federal judge said operations must resume until the previous case is resolved. Schumer explained that the Trump administration not only attempted to shut down Job Corps centers, but in his budget request, Trump said he wanted to totally zero out funding for the program, effectively killing the program without needing the approval of federal courts. In addition to fighting back on Trump’s proposed elimination of funds for Job Corps in the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bill, Schumer led efforts in the Senate to oppose the Trump administration’s destructive and potentially illegal actions like pausing existing funds for the Job Corps centers. Schumer called on U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer to protect Job Corps and demanded answers on these destructive efforts. Due to Schumer’s leadership, the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education funding bill rejected Trump’s call to eliminate Job Corps and instead provides $1.76 billion in federal funding—consistent with the previous year—to keep them open and includes language to protect against efforts to illegally shut down specific centers. Schumer said Job Corps centers have helped millions of young people ages 16 to 24 finish high school, learn technical skills, and get jobs in in-demand fields such as healthcare and construction. Low-income and at-risk young people have received stable housing and healthcare while developing the skills they need to get good-paying jobs after graduation. Across Upstate NY, centers in Albany, Sullivan, Orleans, Otsego, and Chautauqua Counties serve thousands of young New Yorkers and employ over 500 staff. To learn more about Job Corps, visit https://www.jobcorps.gov, or to apply, visit https://enroll.jobcorps.gov. ###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/amid-new-york-fashion-week-gillibrand-nadler-reintroduce-fabric-act-to-bring-accountability-and-transparency-to-the-fashion-industry/,"Amid New York Fashion Week, Gillibrand, Nadler Reintroduce FABRIC Act To Bring Accountability And Transparency To The Fashion Industry",2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,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 (D-NY) and Congressman Jerry Nadler (D-NY-12) announced the reintroduction of their Fashioning Accountability and Building Real Institutional Change (FABRIC) Act. In New York State, there are approximately 130,000 people employed by the fashion industry, including thousands working in apparel manufacturing. Garment workers are a cornerstone of the American economy, and for far too long, they have faced unsafe working conditions, wage theft, and piecework pay, which often prioritizes fast fashion over the safety of workers. Gillibrand and Nadler’s FABRIC Act would protect over 75,000 American garment workers and help revitalize the garment manufacturing industry in the United States by improving working conditions and reforming the piece-rate pay scale. “Garment workers are the backbone of a multibillion-dollar industry, yet for far too long, their labor has been undervalued and exploited,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We cannot champion American innovation while turning a blind eye to abusive labor practices in our own backyard. It’s time to take bold action at the federal level to change the fabric of the American garment industry. The United States was once home to a booming apparel manufacturing industry, and it’s time to reexamine how this industry has evolved over the past 50 years and change how we treat our workers. With the FABRIC Act, we can curb wage theft, protect our workers, and revitalize domestic manufacturing so that ‘Made in America’ also means ethically made.” “America’s garment workers have been undervalued and subjected to unfair labor practices for far too long, due to weak regulations across the fashion industry and the rise of fast fashion. With more than 100,000 New Yorkers contributing their labor to a billion-dollar garment industry, it is time to protect these workers and others across our nation and make historic investments in domestic manufacturing by passing the FABRIC Act,” said Congressman Jerrold Nadler. “I’m proud to work with Senator Gillibrand to protect workers’ rights, bring jobs back from overseas, and revitalize the American fashion industry.” The FABRIC Act proposes to address these issues by: Restructuring pay rates for garment workers and providing minimum wage as a floor with productivity incentives on top. Establishing new liability measures that compel major retailers to become allies in combating workplace violations. Introducing recordkeeping and transparency measures, including requiring garment manufacturers and contractors operating in the U.S. to register with the Department of Labor. Incentivizing reshoring by creating a domestic garment manufacturing grant program aimed at revitalizing the industry. In addition to Gillibrand and Nadler, the bill is cosponsored by Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), as well as Reps. Deborah Ross (D-NC), Don Beyer (D-VA), Maxwell Frost (D-FL), Robert Garcia (D-CA), Dan Goldman (D-NY), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Stephen Lynch (D-MA), and Rashida Tlaib (D-MI). The bill is also endorsed by AFL-CIO, UNITE HERE, Workers United, and RWDSU. The full text of the FABRIC Act can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/in-rochester-gillibrand-raises-alarm-on-trump-administration-slashing-federal-funding-for-snap-and-threatening-new-yorkers-benefits/,In Rochester: Gillibrand Raises Alarm On Trump Administration Slashing Federal Funding For SNAP And Threatening New Yorkers’ Benefits,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"New York State Will Be Responsible for Estimated $168 Million More Annually as SNAP Cost Responsibilities Shift to State and Local Governments Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a press conference calling out the change in Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” that will imminently shift billions of dollars in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cost responsibilities from the federal government onto state and local governments, resulting in major financial burdens on New York State. This comes as President Trump’s reckless war in Iran and chaotic tariffs have raised grocery prices for New York families and made it increasingly difficult to put food on the table. “President Trump has consistently threatened and cut the essential services that serve as the backbone of our nation,” said Senator Gillibrand. “At a time when people can barely afford a cart of groceries or a tank of gas, this president is making states and localities bear excruciating cost burdens for SNAP programming while he is funding tax cuts for the richest people in the country and pouring billions into a war overseas.” “No one should confuse the federal shift in SNAP funding with a reduction in our local commitment to people who rely on SNAP. Monroe County will continue to ensure eligible residents receive their benefits,” said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. “However, every dollar we have to spend covering what used to be a federal responsibility is a dollar we have less available for other critical services and investments here at home. Thank you to Senator Gillibrand for hearing our voice and advocating for local county taxpayers.” “At 1199SEIU, our fight is about more than contracts and wages. It is about dignity, fairness, and ensuring that every person has the opportunity to live a healthy and secure life. When children go hungry, seniors struggle to afford food, and working families are pushed deeper into poverty, we have a responsibility to speak out and demand change,” said Tracey Harrison, 1199SEIU Vice President for the Rochester and Corning Area. “That is why we will continue to stand together and advocate for policies that strengthen families and communities, not just the wealthiest among us. Restore the SNAP benefits now! The change, which is slated to take effect on October 1 and is part of a broader slate of harmful cuts to the SNAP program, will reduce the federal share of SNAP administrative expenses from 50% to 25%, with states and localities now responsible for covering 75% costs. Counties in New York State are expected to be on the hook for $168 million annually as a result, with Monroe County being responsible for an additional $3 million to keep SNAP-supported programs running. Nearly 100,000 people in Monroe County rely on SNAP to feed their families each month. Without this additional federal support, counties may be forced to raise local taxes or slow down the review of SNAP applications. Senator Gillibrand has led the fight against hunger in New York and across the nation. Through legislative efforts like the Closing the Meal Gap Act and the Enhanced Cybersecurity for SNAP Act, she has consistently worked to expand SNAP benefit amounts, remove administrative red tape, and protect low-income families from electronic benefit theft. Her commitment to expanding and protecting SNAP benefits has helped ensure that federal nutrition programs remain a strong and accessible lifeline for millions of Americans. ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/in-schenectady-gillibrand-rails-against-closure-of-veterans-affairs-community-based-outpatient-clinic/,"In Schenectady, Gillibrand Rails Against Closure of Veterans Affairs Community Based Outpatient Clinic",2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"1,500 Capital Region Veterans’ Care Disrupted Despite Repeated Requests for Answers, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Has Provided Little Transparency and Communication on the Future of Capital Region Veterans’ Services Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, held a press conference addressing the recent closure of the Schenectady Veterans Affairs (VA) Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC). This is the region’s second CBOC closure in five years, following the shutdown of the Troy CBOC in July 2021, forcing veterans to seek alternative healthcare in places that may be far from their homes. “The Schenectady VA provided access to care for more than 1,500 veterans in the Capital Region who put their lives on the line to protect our nation,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The decision to close this facility with little communication on alternative care could have devastating consequences. Veterans served our country, and we have a duty and responsibility to ensure their care. I have repeatedly demanded answers from VA Secretary Doug Collins, and I want to reiterate that any plans going forward must include the veterans who have relied on the care of the Schenectady VA.” “The federal VA closed our Schenectady Clinic despite months of warnings from veterans and repeated calls to stop this decision,” said Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara. “The VA’s own records show that cost and projected savings were part of the plan. The bottom line is our veterans should never be asked to pay the price for federal cost-cutting. The lack of answers and communication throughout this process was unacceptable. Veterans deserved answers, not excuses, and access to care, not another barrier standing in their way. At the very least, the VA should have paused the closure, met with us and listened to the veterans who depended on this clinic. The doors may be closed, but the fight is not over. I will continue standing with our veterans and fighting to restore the local access to health care that this closure stripped away.” “As Rotterdam Town Supervisor, I stand firmly against the closing of the Schenectady VA Clinic,” said Rotterdam Town Supervisor John Polimeni. “This decision, overseen by VA Secretary Doug Collins, abandons the men and women who wore our nation’s uniform and now face greater barriers to the care they were promised. I have repeatedly requested meetings with VA staff and have offered practical solutions to keep services accessible locally, yet those concerns have gone unanswered. Our veterans deserve better than to be pushed farther from care and treated as a budget line instead of as heroes who have earned our unwavering support.” The closure of the Schenectady VA Clinic is a slap in the face to those who sacrifice everything for this country and runs contradictory to our shared commitment to caring for all of our veterans when they return home,” said State Senator Patricia Fahy. “Schenectady County veterans should not have to travel further or pay more to access the basic services afforded to them after their service is complete. Our community has not been and will not be silent while this federal administration rips away healthcare from veterans at a time when access to quality, affordable healthcare is dwindling. Our message is clear: reverse this decision and continue your commitment to serving our Schenectady County veterans and meet them where they are in our community.” “The closure of the Schenectady VA clinic is a serious concern for Veterans across the Capital Region who relied on that facility for their care,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy. “Our Veterans should not face additional barriers or uncertainty when it comes to accessing the health care they earned through their service. I share Senator Gillibrand’s concerns and believe the VA must provide clear answers and a plan that ensures continuity of care for every Veteran affected by this closure.” “The VA clinic in Rotterdam provided care to more than 1,500 veterans. Now, those veterans are dealing with the impact of its closure, including challenges finding transportation to get to another clinic and uncertainty about who will provide their care going forward,” said Schenectady County Legislature Chairman Gary Hughes. “Our veterans served and sacrificed for our country. They earned these benefits, and we have a responsibility to make sure they can access the care they need. We thank Senator Gillibrand for standing up for our veterans and bringing us together to make sure their voices are heard.” When the closure was announced in March 2026, Gillibrand immediately called on the Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins to halt the closure and provide immediate answers to ensure that healthcare would not be disrupted for the over 1,500 Capital Region veterans who relied on this clinic. Now, six months following the original letter, and after a subsequent follow-up letter in August, few questions have been answered, even as the VA has closed the clinic. ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/in-westchester-gillibrand-leaders-of-food-banks-statewide-raise-alarm-on-trump-administration-slashing-federal-funding-for-snap-and-threatening-new-yorkers-benefits/,"In Westchester: Gillibrand, Leaders of Food Banks Statewide Raise Alarm On Trump Administration Slashing Federal Funding For SNAP And Threatening New Yorkers’ Benefits",2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"New York State Will Be Responsible for Estimated $168 Million More Annually as SNAP Cost Responsibilities Shift to State and Local Governments Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand joined CEOs from food banks around the state to gaggle with reporters regarding the change in Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” that will imminently shift billions of dollars in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cost responsibilities from the federal government onto state and local governments, resulting in major financial burdens on New York State. This comes as President Trump’s reckless war in Iran and chaotic tariffs have raised grocery prices for New York families and made it increasingly difficult to put food on the table. “President Trump has consistently threatened and cut the essential services that serve as the backbone of our nation,” said Senator Gillibrand. “At a time when people can barely afford a cart of groceries or a tank of gas, this president is making states and localities bear excruciating cost burdens for SNAP programming while he is funding tax cuts for the richest people in the country and pouring billions into a war overseas.” “The recent decrease in SNAP enrollment does not mean hunger is disappearing in Westchester County, across New York State, or anywhere in our country; it means fewer people are getting the food they need,” said Kristine Borok, President and CEO of Feeding Westchester. “Right now, 41% of Westchester households are at risk of hunger, and that number is growing. The inability of families working full-time jobs to put food on the table is not a fleeting occurrence; it has become a change in our society. The food banks represented here today, and our network of partners across Westchester County and New York State, are committed to doing everything in our power to make sure no one in our community goes hungry. To be clear: food banks would need to double or triple our distribution to replace the SNAP cuts. Our network was never meant to replace the federal safety net. Food banks were built as an emergency response system, not a permanent substitute for federal nutrition programs, and we cannot absorb cuts of this magnitude on top of the rising cost of living.” The change, which is slated to take effect on October 1 and is part of a broader slate of harmful cuts to the SNAP program, will reduce the federal share of SNAP administrative expenses from 50% to 25%, with states and localities now responsible for covering 75% costs. Counties in New York State are expected to be on the hook for $168 million annually as a result, with Westchester County being responsible for an additional $4.5 million to keep SNAP-supported programs running. More than 65,000 people in Westchester County rely on SNAP to feed their families each month. Without this additional federal support, counties may be forced to raise local taxes or slow down the review of SNAP applications. ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-33-million-in-federal-funding-for-upstate-new-york-airports,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE $33+ MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR UPSTATE NEW YORK AIRPORTS",2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Elmira/Corning Regional Airport To Receive Over $11M For Runway Construction And Syracuse International Airport To Receive Nearly $13M For Public Use Deicing Pad Announcement Includes Fed $$ – For Central New York, Southern Tier, Mohawk Valley, Western New York And North Country Airports – From FAA’s Airport Improvement Program Which Senators Boosted In Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law And FAA Reauthorization Law Schumer, Gillibrand: Fed $$ Helping Upstate NY Reach New Heights! U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced they are delivering $33,720,260 in new federal funding to upgrade airport facilities and equipment at Upstate New York airports. This federal funding was awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP). These grants will fund infrastructure projects, including ones that enhance airfield safety, modernize and upgrade taxiways, and prepare New York airports for winter. “Keeping our airports in top-notch shape is crucial to attracting business and tourism to Upstate New York. With winter approaching, it is more important than ever to ensure our airports are prepared for whatever winter storms come our way. I’m proud to deliver more than $33 million in federal funding to help our airports, from Elmira to Syracuse, invest in key safety upgrades and modernization efforts,” said Senator Schumer. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Law is continuing to help improvements at New York’s airports take off. I’ll always continue to fight to deliver federal resources to help our local economies reach new heights.” “I am proud to announce more than $33 million in federal funding to improve airports across New York State,” said Senator Gillibrand, ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee. “From expanded deicing pads that keep flights running safely during winter storms to essential snow removal equipment and runway upgrades, this new round of FY26 AIP grants will modernize airport infrastructure in communities statewide, enhancing reliability and travel efficiency for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers. I will always fight to bring home the funding that our airports need to ensure safety and operate at the highest standard.” A breakdown of awards can be found below: ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-announces-resolution-commemorating-25th-anniversary-of-september-11-2001-terror-attacks/,"Gillibrand Announces Bipartisan Resolution Commemorating 25th Anniversary of September 11, 2001 Terror Attacks",2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, on the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand led a bipartisan group of her colleagues in announcing a Senate resolution honoring the victims, first responders, and survivors of 9/11, as well as the service members who defended the United States in the aftermath. The resolution pays tribute to the 2,977 individuals killed in Lower Manhattan, at the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. It also honors the 343 firefighters, 72 law enforcement officers, 8 emergency medical technicians and paramedics, and 55 military personnel at the Pentagon who sacrificed their lives responding to the attacks, alongside the passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93. The resolution also recognizes the charitable foundations, nonprofit organizations, labor organizations, faith-based organizations, and community groups that have faithfully served survivors and families of victims. “Twenty-five years ago, our nation experienced tragedy, but in our darkest hour, we saw the extraordinary courage and resilience of the American people,” said Senator Gillibrand.“As we mark 25 years since September 11, 2001, we owe it to the victims, the heroes who ran into the burning towers, and the military personnel who answered the call to serve to ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten. This resolution reaffirms our commitment to standing with survivors and their families, supporting the programs that continue to provide critical care, and vowing to never forget.” Throughout her time in Congress, Senator Gillibrand has continuously advocated for 9/11first responders and survivors, championing major federal efforts to secure permanent healthcare and financial compensation. She led the passage of the James Zadroga 9/11Health and Compensation Act of 2010 to establish the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) and reopen the Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). She also spearheaded the passage of long-term protections for the 9/11 community with the James Zadroga 9/11Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act to extend the WTCHP through 2090, co-authored the Never Forget the Heroes Act of 2019 to permanently fund the VCF, and led legislative fixes to stabilize the WTCHP’s budget formula, ensuring that over 140,000 enrolled responders and survivors maintain access to specialized care and benefits. In addition to Senator Gillibrand, the resolution is cosponsored by Senators Andy Kim (D-NJ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and John Boozman (R-AR). The resolution can be read HERE. ###",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-reappointment-of-dr-john-howard-as-head-of-the-world-trade-center-health-program/,Gillibrand Statement On Reappointment Of Dr. John Howard As Head Of The World Trade Center Health Program,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,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 (D-NY) applauded the reappointment of Dr. John Howard as Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and Administrator of the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP). “Honoring our promise to ‘never forget’ means protecting healthcare for 9/11 first responders and survivors, and Dr. Howard sets the example,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Particularly as we approach 25 years since September 11, we must rely on experienced leadership to ensure our heroes get the specialized care they need to cope with the long-term health effects of toxic exposure. I am glad that Dr. Howard has been reappointed to continue this essential work, and I will always fight to make sure our heroes receive the care they deserve. ” In July, Gillibrand (D-NY) led a bipartisan, bicameral letter urging Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to reappoint Dr. John Howard to another six-year term as NIOSH director and WTCHP administrator. The lawmakers highlighted Dr. Howard’s leadership of the World Trade Center Health Program and noted that Congress recently secured lifetime funding for the program, ensuring responders and survivors continue receiving the care they have earned. Senator Gillibrand has been leading the push for 9/11 first responders and survivors still battling illnesses from their toxic exposure at Ground Zero. She recently pushed HHS to expand coverage of cancer screenings for 9/11 responders and survivors under the WTCHP. She also led the bipartisan, bicameral fight to fix the World Trade Center Health Program’s funding shortfall, and she delivered full, permanent funding for the program, signed into law in February 2026. ###",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-colleagues-condemn-dojs-failure-to-vigorously-defend-fundamental-gun-violence-prevention-law/,"Gillibrand, Colleagues Condemn DOJ’s Failure To Vigorously Defend Fundamental Gun Violence Prevention Law",2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,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 (D-NY) joined 12 Senate colleagues in condemning the Department of Justice (DOJ)’s refusal to seek immediate appellate relief from a recent district court decision striking down key regulatory requirements of the National Firearms Act of 1934 (NFA). In a letter to Attorney General Todd Blanche, the senators expressed serious concerns about DOJ’s failure to vigorously defend the NFA, a foundational federal gun violence prevention law that regulates some of the most dangerous concealable weapons in the country. “As gun violence continues to threaten the safety of our kids, our families, and our police officers, the Trump administration should be doing more to keep guns out of the wrong hands – not less,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Refusing to defend these nearly 100-year-old protections is a direct surrender to the gun lobby at the expense of American lives. It’s absolutely unconscionable, and I am doing everything I can to fight back.” Last month, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas held unconstitutional the NFA’s regulatory requirements for certain highly dangerous weapons. Although the court temporarily stayed its order to give DOJ time to seek immediate appellate relief, DOJ declined to do so, opting instead to let the court’s injunction take effect. “DOJ’s failure to seek immediate relief is profoundly concerning—for the integrity of the Department, the rule of law, and the public’s safety,” the senators wrote. “The Department has long recognized its ‘duty to defend the constitutionality of an Act of Congress whenever a reasonable argument can be made in its support.’ During your confirmation proceedings, you reiterated this precise principle—including in the specific context of the NFA.” The senators went on to note that DOJ’s sudden retreat appeared to be the result of a substantial pressure campaign by gun rights lobbyists and a group of Republican lawmakers. The senators demanded answers about DOJ’s justification for not seeking immediate relief and called on DOJ to appeal the district court’s decision. “As a result of DOJ’s refusal to seek a stay of the District Court’s order, some of the most dangerous concealable weapons in the country—including those that have been used in several mass shootings—can now be (and have been) bought and sold outside the NFA’s heightened regulatory framework for the first time in nearly 100 years,” the senators concluded. “We urge the Department to resume its vigorous defense of the NFA and fulfill the promises you made to defend the constitutionality of laws passed by Congress and keep Americans safe.” Senator Gillibrand continues to be a fierce advocate for commonsense gun regulation. She previously wrote the interstate gun trafficking ban that became law as part of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which has led to over 6,000 guns being taken off the streets. When the Trump administration stopped providing updates on the number of alleged traffickers charged under the interstate gun trafficking ban, Gillibrand successfully demanded that DOJ restore transparency and resume the updates. In July, she also called out the Trump administration’s dangerous rollbacks of gun safety regulations like those that block illegal firearm sales and keep guns away from people with a history of mental illness. In addition to Senator Gillibrand, the letter was signed by Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Peter Welch (D-VT). The full text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-oil-prices-hitting-100-a-barrel-amid-trumps-continued-failures-in-iran/,Gillibrand Statement On Oil Prices Hitting $100 A Barrel Amid Trump’s Continued Failures In Iran,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, in response to reports that Trump’s war in Iran has again spiked oil prices to $100 a barrel and has left 18 U.S. service members dead and 820 wounded so far, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement: “Trump’s reckless war in Iran continues to hit devastating new milestones. With oil prices skyrocketing and diesel reaching new record highs every day, Americans are struggling to fill up their gas tanks and put food on their tables. Our brave troops in the Middle East continue to be harmed with no strategy to guide them, no clear objectives to reach, and no idea of when they are going home. And President Trump, instead of working to lower costs and end this war, is spending his time hosting a multi-day tribute to himself. It’s an absolute disgrace. American families and service members deserve better than the embarrassment that is the Trump administration.” ###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-applauds-finalized-375-million-award-from-his-chips-and-science-law-for-globalfoundries-to-launch-new-quantum-business,SCHUMER APPLAUDS FINALIZED $375 MILLION AWARD FROM HIS CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW FOR GLOBALFOUNDRIES TO LAUNCH NEW QUANTUM BUSINESS,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,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 Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer today applauded the finalization of the U.S. Commerce Department’s agreement to award up to $375 million in federal funding from Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law to launch Quantum Technology Solutions, a new quantum business within GlobalFoundries that will position America at the forefront of technology innovation. “Quantum technology will define the next generation of innovation, and Upstate New York is where that future is being built. I’m thrilled that GlobalFoundries has finalized and fully secured up to $375 million in federal investment to support a brand-new quantum business in the Capital Region, made possible by the billions in federal R&D funds I included in my CHIPS and Science Law,” said Senator Schumer. “This investment will strengthen America’s domestic manufacturing base and make sure the technologies that define our future are built right here in the Capital Region. Upstate New York’s manufacturing once powered the world, and I’ll keep fighting to make sure we can do it again and outcompete China.” Schumer said this funding, made possible by his CHIPS & Science Law, will help expand America’s domestic manufacturing capacity for large-scale quantum computers. GlobalFoundries is also a key partner of a second CHIPS R&D award finalized this week, an award of up to $100 million to Quantinuum, which will lead to further federal investment and jobs in the Capital Region. This is a partnership that Schumer has helped facilitate as part of this CHIPS investment. Additionally, GlobalFoundries has been a long-time partner and manufacturer for PsiQuantum, which has also finalized an award this week of up to $100 million from the CHIPS R&D program. Schumer has long been a supporter of PsiQuantum’s work with GlobalFoundries, delivering $25 million in federal funding in 2022 to expand research and development spearheaded out of the Air Force Research Laboratory in Rome, New York, to manufacture and test photonic quantum computing technology. GlobalFoundries is a leading producer of chips that are critical across industries, from mobile phones and artificial intelligence to automobiles and defense technologies. GlobalFoundries’ chips are also critical to the development of quantum technologies, which are critical to American leadership in global innovation. Schumer has long supported GlobalFoundries’ growth in the Capital Region, delivering a CHIPS award of up to $1.5 billion in direct funding through the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law he initiated and successfully passed into law. The funding is supporting the expansion of GlobalFoundries’ existing fab in Malta, NY, and the construction of a second, state-of-the-art fab at the same site, in addition to the modernization of the company’s current facility in VT, all of which will create thousands of new, good-paying manufacturing and construction jobs. GlobalFoundries then secured an additional $75 million in CHIPS funding to make a $3 billion investment to create a first-of-its-kind advanced chip packaging facility at its Saratoga County location, thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law. Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. In addition to massive federal funding for GlobalFoundries to grow in the Capitol Region, Micron has broken ground 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 CHIPS agreement. Corning Incorporated finalized a $32 million agreement to make a $315 million investment that would increase production at its Canton facility of specialized glass vital for the semiconductor industry. Edwards Vacuum is nearing completion of a new first-of-its-kind-in-the-country $300+ million dry pump manufacturing facility, supported by an $18 million CHIPS funding award. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, plans to invest up to $130 million to expand its facilities in Onondaga County, creating up to 400 good-paying jobs, supported by $30 million in federal investment that Schumer delivered. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build its microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new, good-paying jobs. ###",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/as-canadian-retaliatory-tariffs-take-effect-gillibrand-issues-statement-on-president-trumps-reckless-trade-war-and-her-bill-to-repeal-it/,"As Canadian Retaliatory Tariffs Take Effect, Gillibrand Issues Statement On President Trump’s Reckless Trade War And Her Bill To Repeal It",2026-09-08,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Last Month, Gillibrand Announced Legislation To Repeal President Trump’s 50% Tariffs On Canadian Goods Today, as President Trump’s trade war with Canada rages on and Canada’s 50% tariffs on American goods take effect, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement: “President Trump’s costly trade war with Canada is the latest example of the president playing political games at the expense of our economy, our alliances, and American families’ financial security. This trade war with Canada will raise costs for New York families and small businesses who are already struggling to make ends meet. “Congress must pass my legislation to end these reckless tariffs once and for all and refund Americans for duties they’ve already paid. It’s past time for President Trump to stop the chaos, get back to the negotiation table, and make a deal that lowers costs for American families.” The president’s tariffs have previously been found to be unconstitutional and have already raised costs on New Yorkers. Poll after poll after poll has found that a resounding majority of Americans oppose Trump’s tariffs actions that have raised prices and hurt their families. Senator Gillibrand has opposed President Trump’s tariffs since the start of his administration. Shortly after the president levied 50% tariffs on Canada, Senator Gillibrand announced the Banning Antiquated Duties and Delivering Equitable American Levies (BAD DEAL) Act to repeal all tariffs levied under Section 338 of the Tariff Act and refund Americans for all duties paid under this authority—including Trump’s latest 50% tariffs on Canada. ###",1,2026-09-09T09:27:09Z,2026-09-09T09:29:04Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-release-of-city-records-on-post-9-11-air-quality-in-lower-manhattan/,Gillibrand Statement On Release Of City Records On Post-9/11 Air Quality In Lower Manhattan,2026-09-08,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Gillibrand: “There Must Be Accountability. These Records Must Be Released In Full. The 9/11 Community And New York Deserve The Truth About What Was Known And When” Today, in response to new reports underscoring that New Yorkers were misled about dangerous air quality after the terror attack in New York City on September 11, 2001, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement: “In the aftermath of 9/11, our first responders and survivors were told the same thing over and over: prove it. Prove that the dust and smoke you breathed for months at Ground Zero made you sick. Prove that your cancer, your lung disease, your colleague’s death was connected to the cleanup. Dying heroes had to travel to Washington to plead with members of Congress to look them in the eye, believe them, and help them. “I have spent my Senate career fighting for these families: passing the Zadroga Act to establish the World Trade Center Health Program, permanently funding the Victim Compensation Fund, and fixing the health program’s funding shortfall. Together, we had to fight to prove what we already knew, and what it appears some officials knew from the very beginning. “I want to thank Mayor Mamdani and his administration for releasing these initial public records regarding the toxins present during and after the attacks, and for their commitment to fully review and publicize more records over the next year. “These documents suggest officials had evidence of dangerous conditions – benzene and asbestos spiking in November 2001, and carcinogens present the following summer – while assuring the public there was little long-term risk. Firefighters worked that site for months breathing air the city claimed was safe, but apparently knew was harmful. “There must be accountability. These records must be released in full. The 9/11 community and New York deserve the truth about what was known and when. “We already know the cost: last week, the FDNY released a report that over 9,000 people – including 600 firefighters – have died from illnesses tied to Ground Zero. Overall, more than 12,000 FDNY members have at least one World Trade Center-related condition, and nearly a quarter of those have been diagnosed with cancer. “This is also why our fight for the World Trade Center Health Program is not finished. Securing funding was essential, but I will keep pressing the program to fix delays in certifying new conditions, clinical staffing shortages, and administrative backlogs. Nobody who breathed that air should be denied care or have to wait years for it. “Twenty-five years after one of the darkest days in our nation’s history, we cannot forget the sacrifices and heroism of our first responders and ordinary New Yorkers who ran through flame, rubble, and toxic soot to save lives. Who cleaned up the aftermath and then fought to rebuild New York City stronger than ever. In our nation’s darkest hour, they put on the armor of light. We must never forget their courage, nor can we ignore the toll that that courage took on their health and their families.” The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) was established in 2011 as part of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act and was originally funded for five years at $1.6 billion. The program was reauthorized in 2015 and extended through 2090 with bipartisan support. In 2022, Senator Gillibrand led lawmakers in passing $1 billion for the WTCHP in the end-of-year spending bill, and in 2023, Senator Gillibrand helped secure an additional $676 million for the program. Earlier this year, she successfully secured full funding for the program, continuing her commitment to ensuring 9/11 responders and survivors receive the care they need, now and in the years ahead. ###",1,2026-09-09T09:27:09Z,2026-09-09T09:29:04Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-after-securing-congressional-gold-medal-to-recognize-historic-miracle-on-ice-1980-olympic-ice-hockey-team-visits-mt-van-hoevenberg-olympic-sports-complex-to-showcase-potential-for-future-olympic-games,"SCHUMER, AFTER SECURING CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL TO RECOGNIZE HISTORIC “MIRACLE ON ICE” 1980 OLYMPIC ICE HOCKEY TEAM, VISITS MT VAN HOEVENBERG OLYMPIC SPORTS COMPLEX TO SHOWCASE POTENTIAL FOR FUTURE...",2026-09-08,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Last Year, Schumer Introduced And Led To Passage Bipartisan Legislation To Celebrate Historic Ice Hockey Game And Honor Olympic U.S. Men’s Ice Hockey Champions With Congressional Gold Medal Recognition – Including One To Be Displayed At New York’s Lake Placid Olympic Center Senator Reveals His Office Is Participating In Efforts to Explore Potential 2042 NYC-Lake Placid Bid To Have Highest Level Of Competition Featured At New York’s World-Class Facilities Schumer: Lake Placid Has A Rich Olympic History; We Should Look To Continue That Legacy! A year after the passage of his legislation honoring the 1980 U.S. Men’s Olympic Hockey Team with a Congressional Gold Medal, U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer last week visited Mt Van Hoevenberg Olympic Sports Complex to highlight efforts to bring the Winter Olympics back to the North Country. Schumer explained he is involved with new efforts to pursue a bid to host the 2042 Games and said there is no better place than New York State – with its rich sports history and world-class facilities – to host. “Lake Placid holds a long and special place in Winter Olympic history – having hosted both the 1932 and 1980 Games. Last year, I was proud to sponsor the commemoration of the 1980 ‘Miracle on Ice’ Olympic Ice Hockey Team with the Congressional Gold Medal to be displayed right here in Lake Placid. This historic team, made up of amateur players, sparked an explosion of American pride and patriotism when they defeated the vaunted Soviet Union Red Army Team at the 1980 Winter Olympic Games and then beat Finland in the gold medal game,” said Senator Schumer. “Lake Placid-NYC Games would mean the highest level of competition featured at our world-class facilities, including Lake Placid’s unique alpine and sliding infrastructure. I applaud Governor Hochul’s efforts to look at the feasibility of bringing the Games back here, and I am happy to lend my support to those exploratory efforts. I think Lake Placid just might have more miracles to share with the world.” Last year, Schumer introduced and helped lead to passage his legislation honoring the 1980 U.S. Men’s Olympic Hockey Team. The team defeated the mighty four-time Olympic champion Soviet Union Team in the semifinal game of the tournament and went on to win a gold medal in a thrilling come-from-behind game against the Finnish National Team. Schumer’s legislation celebrates the team’s historic victory with a Congressional Gold Medal to recognize their extraordinary achievement, including displaying one of the Congressional Gold Medals at the Lake Placid Olympic Center. Also, in 2016, Schumer visited the Olympic Training Center in Lake Placid to launch his successful effort to end the “Victory Tax” that had forced our medal-winning heroes to pay tax to the IRS on the value of their medals and accompanying victory stipends. Schumer says bringing the Olympics back to Lake Placid and New York would be a once-in-a-generation opportunity to use Lake Placid’s top-notch winter sports infrastructure and New York City’s iconic stadiums for a modern Olympic Games. As New York State considers bidding on the 2042 Winter Olympic Games, Schumer revealed his office is participating in an exploratory committee to evaluate the feasibility of bringing the Winter Olympics back for a joint New York City-Lake Placid-hosted games, and he wants to support these efforts in any way possible. ###",1,2026-09-09T09:27:09Z,2026-09-09T09:29:04Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-record-high-diesel-prices/,Gillibrand Statement On Record High Diesel Prices,2026-09-04,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, in response to Donald Trump and Republicans driving diesel to record high prices and gas to over $4 on Labor Day for the first time ever, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement: “Because of Donald Trump, New York families, small businesses, and farmers will be paying record high prices this Labor Day weekend,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Every time New Yorkers go to the grocery store, take a trip, or buy something, they will be paying more because of Trump’s reckless war in Iran. Americans need relief, but all this administration is focused on is bombs, ballrooms, and billionaires. I won’t stop fighting to end the war in Iran and lower costs for hardworking New Yorkers across our state.” Gas has never been above $4 a gallon on Labor Day. According to AAA, the average price of gas is $4.15 a gallon across the country ($4.30 in New York), compared with $3.20 at this time last year. In addition, today’s August job report found that wage growth is now the lowest it has been in 5 years as inflation gobbles up Americans’ wages. ###",1,2026-09-05T08:49:07Z,2026-09-05T08:50:44Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/after-his-advocacy-schumer-announces-town-of-plattsburgh-added-to-lake-champlain-basin-programopening-up-new-federal-funding-to-address-crumbling-infrastructure-at-former-air-force-baseand-launches-push-to-reauthorize-program,"AFTER HIS ADVOCACY, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES TOWN OF PLATTSBURGH ADDED TO LAKE CHAMPLAIN BASIN PROGRAM—OPENING UP NEW FEDERAL FUNDING TO ADDRESS CRUMBLING INFRASTRUCTURE AT FORMER AIR FORCE BASE—AND LAUNCHES...",2026-09-04,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Town Of Plattsburgh To Receive Fed Support After Schumer Brought US Army Corps Of Engineers To Meet With Town About How To Deal With Critical Infrastructure Left From The Former Air Force Base Following Schumer’s Advocacy, Town of Plattsburgh Added To Lake Champlain Basin Program Unlocking Critical Opportunities For Inventorying And Remediation Funding; Senator Vows To Fight To Reauthorize Critical Program In Upcoming Bill Schumer: Investing In Lake Champlain Conservation Program Is A WIN – WIN That Will Help Protect Both The Lake And Town Residents Following his advocacy, U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer today announced that the Town of Plattsburgh has been added to the Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP), which unlocked new federal funding opportunities that will help the Town fix crumbling infrastructure at the former Air Force Base. Schumer previously secured a meeting between Town of Plattsburgh officials and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to assess the condition and scope of the base’s Cold War-era infrastructure. Schumer said that meeting directly led to the Town’s inclusion in the LCBP that will help the Town secure necessary federal investment to inventory and begin to address the outdated infrastructure. Schumer also launched his push to reauthorize the critical federal program that supports Lake Champlain and its surrounding area. “For decades, Plattsburgh Air Force Base played a vital role in protecting our country during the Cold War. Now, with Plattsburgh International Airport, it continues its service to the North Country as a travel hub for Northern New Yorkers. However, its Cold War-era infrastructure is falling apart, creating sinkholes and sending unwanted sediments into Lake Champlain, and locals are concerned the next storm could bring more damage,” said Senator Schumer. “That’s why I was proud to ensure the Town of Plattsburgh was added to the Lake Champlain Basin Program so we can unlock new federal funding to assess and inventory the infrastructure and provide a funding source for future remediation of the crumbling drainage system. As Congress begins to work on our next water funding bill, I am thinking of the Town of Plattsburgh as I fight to reauthorize this vital program for the Lake Champlain region.” Plattsburgh Air Force Base closed three decades ago, and much of the infrastructure was installed when the base was built in the mid-1950s. When the base closed, the town had concerns that the infrastructure built by the Air Force may not be up to current standards. Since then, pipes that were designed to drain water away from the flight line are collapsing due to heavy rains, creating sinkholes, sending unwanted and likely contaminated sediments into Lake Champlain, and creating concern that more damage could be coming. “A town of our size could easily be overwhelmed by a project of this magnitude. We would never have the financial resources to begin studying the problem, let alone start the actual construction process to rehabilitate the failing infrastructure left behind when the Airbase closed. We are deeply appreciative of the connections that Senator Schumer has made on our behalf. His involvement in the process has been invaluable and is a testament to his commitment to the North Country. The importance of this project to the continued economic development of the former Plattsburgh Air Force Base cannot be overstated. This is a project with a generational impact that will ensure a sustainable future for an extremely vital portion of the Town of Plattsburgh,” said Supervisor Chuck Kostyk, Town of Plattsburgh. Last year, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer secured a meeting in Plattsburgh between Town officials and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding the former Air Force Base. Michael Cashman, then serving as Town Supervisor, had asked Schumer for assistance in assessing the condition and scope of the Cold War-era infrastructure, and the senator worked for weeks to help get the USACE to agree to send out a team of engineers to see the site, now operating commercial flights as Plattsburgh International Airport, firsthand and provide technical expertise as the town evaluates next steps. The Army Corps, with Schumer’s support, then helped ensure the Town of Plattsburgh’s inclusion in the LCBP to unlock federal funding opportunities to conduct a $650,000 study to assess and inventory the infrastructure and potentially remediate the problem. The LCBP and its Lake Champlain Watershed Environmental Assistance Program support New York and Vermont’s efforts to improve Lake Champlain’s water quality, support wildlife habitat, and enhance the environment throughout the lake’s watershed. Schumer has a long history of supporting the LCBP. Schumer has cosponsored numerous bills to support the foundation, growth, and continued funding of the LCBP. 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. Back in 2024, under Schumer’s leadership in the Senate, economically disadvantaged communities like Plattsburgh only have to provide a 10% local cost share, down from the previous level of 35%. This year, he proudly cosponsored the LCBP Enhancements Act of 2026, which would reauthorize the program and maintain its funding through 2032, improve oversight of the program’s fiscal agent to ensure funds are administered in a timely and proper manner, and formally authorize the partnership between the LCBP and the Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC), allowing for greater support for Lake Champlain. Additionally, Schumer is pushing to increase funding for LCBP through the Fiscal Year 2027 Interior Appropriations bill. This funding is critical to restore, protect, and prevent pollution of the Lake Champlain ecosystem and also to plan responses for climate-related disasters. Schumer today launched his push to reauthorize the LCBP in the upcoming bipartisan Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), so the program can continue its mission while working with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to make its grants more accessible to the local communities and dedicated partners on the shore like the Town of Plattsburgh. Schumer has delivered many millions of dollars in federal funding to support Plattsburgh, Clinton County, and the Plattsburgh Airport. Through the American Rescue Plan, Schumer delivered millions of dollars in federal funding to help Clinton County recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, including $15.61 million for Clinton County, $2.14 million for the City of Plattsburgh, and $1.31 million for the Town of Plattsburgh. Schumer has delivered millions of dollars for Plattsburgh International Airport, including $184,000 from the Airport Improvement Program just last year, $1.4 million from the Airport Improvement Program in 2024, and nearly $6 million for various projects through the Airport Improvement Grant program. Schumer earlier this year also successfully increased funding for the vital Essential Air Service program Plattsburgh International Airport relies on, providing $514 million for the EAS program – a nearly 15% increase from last year, rejecting President Trump’s proposal to cut the program by 50% and preventing the Department of Transportation from haphazardly terminating any EAS contracts. ###",1,2026-09-05T08:49:07Z,2026-09-05T08:50:44Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/as-fallout-from-last-years-medicaid-cuts-threatens-health-care-for-nearly-60000-in-the-north-country-schumer-visits-adirondack-medical-center-to-push-bill-to-reverse-medicaid-cuts-protect-rural-hospitals-lower-health-care-costs-and-save-county-budgets,"AS FALLOUT FROM LAST YEAR’S MEDICAID CUTS THREATENS HEALTH CARE FOR NEARLY 60,000 IN THE NORTH COUNTRY, SCHUMER VISITS ADIRONDACK MEDICAL CENTER TO PUSH BILL TO REVERSE MEDICAID CUTS, PROTECT RURAL...",2026-09-04,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Last Year Congressional Republicans Unilaterally Passed Largest Health Care Cut In History – Now NY Hospitals Are Dealing With The Impacts – With Adirondack Medical Center Listed As One Of NY’s Top Financially Distressed Rural Hospitals Schumer’s Legislation Will Reverse Medicaid Cuts Before Permanent Damage Is Done And 1.5 Million New Yorkers Lose Health Care, Revive ACA Tax Credits, And Make Health Insurance More Affordable And Accessible For Families Schumer: We Must Reverse These Awful Medicaid Cuts And Protect Health Care For The North Country As the fallout from devastating Medicaid cuts in the “Big, Ugly Betrayal” law begins in the North Country, U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer today visited Adirondack Medical Center and announced his legislation – the Protecting Health Care And Lowering Costs Act – to repeal these devastating health care cuts and revive the ACA premium tax credits, which would lower families’ health care costs and help them keep their insurance coverage. Standing at Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake, which was named by the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform as at risk due to financial distress, and where 37% of the population is covered by Medicaid, Schumer explained that we have only just begun to feel the negative impacts of health care cuts – with hospitals around the country reducing staff and cutting back on services. Adirondack Medical Center treats over 5,500 unique Medicaid patients. The hospital generates $214 million in economic activity and supports 1,100 jobs. “The ‘Big, Ugly Betrayal’ and its huge Medicaid cuts is one of the most devastating bills for health care we’ve ever seen. Nearly 60,000 New Yorkers in the North Country are expected to lose their Medicaid coverage, with our rural communities and the hospitals that serve them hit the hardest,” said Senator Schumer. “This is a gut punch to North Country health care, drives up costs for consumers, and will hurt so many seniors, families, and children who rely on Medicaid just to survive. Adirondack Medical Center was already one of the most financially distressed hospitals in the state. If we don’t reverse these devastating cuts, it will only get worse for hospitals, nursing homes, and health care centers across Upstate NY.” Schumer continued, “That’s why I’m here to push for my bill to repeal all of the health care cuts and revive the ACA premium tax credits that ended last year. We should be making health care more affordable, not ripping it away and making it more expensive to get coverage. The fallout is just beginning from the devastating cuts in this horrible bill, with rural hospitals across the country treating more patients without insurance, facing longer ER wait times, and trying to figure out how to make ends meet. We must right this wrong, and I will lead the way to protect our hospitals and make health care more affordable.” Schumer’s new legislation would reverse all the health care cuts in the “Big, Ugly Betrayal,” including those to Medicaid, and would permanently revive the ACA premium tax credits that expired in December 2025. The entire Democratic caucus has signed on to co-sponsor the legislation. The full text of the legislation can be seen here. The “Big, Ugly Betrayal” is estimated to kick nearly 15 million people across America off their health insurance and totals more than one trillion dollars in health care cuts. “In the North Country, the average couple is expected to pay an increased $253 per month, higher than the statewide average, due to the lack of extension of ACA premium tax credits in last year’s bill,” said Schumer. Senate Democrats are fighting back and pushing to reverse these devastating cuts and revive tax credits to make health care affordable. Overall, these cuts could rip away health coverage for nearly 60,000 New Yorkers in the North Country's 21st Congressional District, while also increasing ER wait times, increasing out-of-pocket costs & premiums, reducing medical services, and blowing huge holes in county budgets. In addition, Schumer said the health care cuts will shift the cost of care to local governments, resulting in agonizing decisions, with county executives and state legislators forced to decide where to make up for the huge budget hole caused by the staggering loss in federal funding. Counties like Franklin and taxpayers across the North Country will be forced to shoulder the burden of these Medicaid cuts, using more local dollars to manage people’s coverage with less federal funding coming in. The plan to cut Medicaid has already started to hit New York, with experts saying this is only the beginning. Ellis Medicine last year announced it was moving outpatient surgical procedures performed at Bellevue Woman’s Center in Niskayuna to its main campus in Schenectady due to uncertainty about federal Medicaid cuts. Patients worry this is the first step in the Niskayuna hospital’s eventual closure. Last year, Garnet Health laid off 42 employees and cut programs for Hudson Valley patients, citing the disastrous Medicaid cuts in the “Big, Beautiful Bill.” Also last year, Kaleida Health announced it will close Buffalo Therapy Services clinics, leading to more layoffs. Schumer said this is a dark preview of what could come now that the largest health care cut in history has been enacted. The Medicaid cuts threaten to force health care facilities to offer fewer services and reduce staff, undoubtedly reducing access to health care for millions of Americans. Overall, New York State estimates that the state will lose $13.5 billion because of the new federal health care cuts. With local communities already panicking about the devastating impact of these unpopular cuts, Schumer is leading the fight to fix this disastrous policy and protect health care for millions of Americans. ###",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-delivers-14-million-in-fed-funding-to-piseco-airport-after-fighting-eight-years-ago-to-keep-federal-funding-flowing-and-hamilton-county-airport-open,SCHUMER DELIVERS $1.4 MILLION IN FED FUNDING TO PISECO AIRPORT AFTER FIGHTING EIGHT YEARS AGO TO KEEP FEDERAL FUNDING FLOWING AND HAMILTON COUNTY AIRPORT OPEN,2026-09-04,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"New Fed Investment Secured By Schumer Will Rehabilitate Thousands Of Yards Of Pavement And Keep North Country Passengers Safe After Rule Change Ten Years Ago Rendered Piseco Airport Unable To Receive FAA Grant Funding For Repairs, Schumer Fought To Restore Piseco Airport’s Eligibility For Fed Infrastructure Funds Schumer: Piseco Airport Can Reach New Heights! After fighting to ensure the Piseco Airport would remain eligible for federal funding, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today visited the Hamilton County airport and announced he has delivered $1,412,438 in federal funding through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP) to rehabilitate thousands of yards of pavement to ensure the airport is safe for North Country passengers. “Sometimes, people ask me why I visit all 62 counties, and this is exactly why. Ten years ago, on my trip to Hamilton County, my good friend Rick Wilt, who was Supervisor of Arietta, told me that the Town needed help with the FAA. Without annual aviation grant funding, there was simply no way the town could afford to operate and maintain its municipal airport. Now, Arietta is not only back in compliance, but I was proud to deliver $1.4 million in federal funding to help the airport invest in key safety upgrades,” said Senator Schumer. “Working with people like Rick to support New Yorkers in every corner of the state keeps me going. I was devastated to learn of Rick’s passing last month and extend my sincerest condolences to his family and friends, and all those who knew him. As we honor Rick and the community he loved, I’m here to say I will always fight to support Arietta and Hamilton County.” Schumer explained that there are six homes on eight properties lined immediately adjacent to the western side of the Piseco Airport along their airstrip, and that back in 1971, the Town of Arietta deeded homeowners perpetual access rights to the airstrip. However, Schumer explained, in 2013 the FAA established the Residential Through-the-Fence Access agreement, which said that any neighboring access to an airport must be sold at fair market value. As a result of the Piseco Airport’s non-compliance with this rule, the FAA prohibited Piseco from receiving grant funding through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). According to Schumer, this crippled the ability of the Town of Arietta, with its population of 304, to maintain and operate its airport. Schumer fought to resolve the issue for the Town of Arietta and the Piseco Airport. In 2016, Supervisor Rick Wilt raised the issue during Schumer’s annual visit to Hamilton County. Schumer’s staff worked with the FAA to try to find a regulatory solution. Again in 2017, Schumer met with Town of Arietta and Hamilton County officials at the airport to discuss the issue in greater detail and pledged to include a policy fix in the next FAA Reauthorization Bill. In 2018, however, Schumer announced that a five-year FAA Reauthorization bill was signed into law, which included a legislative fix to the Residential Through-the-Fence Access, allowing certain airports, including the Piseco Airport, to be eligible to receive federal AIP funds through a grandfather clause. Since then, the airport has continued to receive its annual Airport Improvement Program grant funding of approximately $150,000, which it depends on in order to operate the municipally owned airfield. Just last month, Schumer delivered $1,412,438 in additional grant funding for key modernization upgrades. This grant funds the final phase, which consists of construction. This project rehabilitates 4,000 square feet of existing airport helipad to extend its useful life. This project also rehabilitates 10,500 square yards of existing Terminal Apron pavement to maintain the structural integrity of the pavement and to minimize foreign object debris. This federal funding was awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which Schumer boosted in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law he led to passage in the Senate and the 2024 FAA reauthorization law. ###",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-announces-bill-to-ban-president-trump-from-renaming-lake-ontario/,Gillibrand Announces Bill To Ban President Trump From Renaming Lake Ontario,2026-09-03,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"The bill would nullify the president’s executive order to rename Lake Ontario “Lake America” and prohibit future attempts to rename Great Lakes Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced a new bill to prohibit President Trump from renaming Lake Ontario and the other Great Lakes. The legislation, the Hands Off Our Great Lakes Act, follows President Trump’s executive order to rename Lake Ontario “Lake America” amid his escalating trade war with Canada. Congressman Joe Morelle (D-NY-25) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. “President Trump’s inane executive order is a weak attempt to distract from the fact that the Trump administration has raised costs on hardworking families, caused gas prices to skyrocket, and cut the programs that Americans rely on to get healthcare and put food on the table,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Instead of renaming Great Lakes for no good reason, the president should stop the political games, get back to the negotiation table, and make a deal that lowers costs for New York families. I am proud to announce this legislation to restore Lake Ontario’s original name, and I look forward to getting it passed.” “Lake Ontario is Lake Ontario. No executive order, proclamation, or presidential temper tantrum is going to change that,” said Congressman Morelle. “Families are worried about paying their bills. Businesses are looking for certainty. Communities like ours are asking Washington to focus on the challenges that actually affect people’s lives. Here in Rochester, we’ll keep calling it Lake Ontario. And in Congress, I’m working with my colleagues to make sure it stays that way.” This bill, which Senator Gillibrand plans to introduce in the next Senate working period, would prevent the executive branch from renaming any of the five Great Lakes. It would also nullify and prohibit the implementation and use of funds for the executive order that renamed Lake Ontario to Lake America. The full text of the bill can be found here. Last week, Senator Gillibrand also announced legislation to repeal all tariffs levied under Section 338 of the Tariff Act and refund Americans for all duties paid under this authority. This includes President Trump’s most recent 50% tariffs on Canada, which will raise prices for New York families and hurt our economy. ###",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-fema-again-denying-major-disaster-declaration-for-new-york-state-for-february-blizzard/,Gillibrand Statement On FEMA Again Denying Major Disaster Declaration For New York State For February Blizzard,2026-09-03,2026,2026-09,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 (D-NY) made the following statement on the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) decision to deny for a second time Governor Kathy Hochul’s Major Disaster Declaration request in response to the February blizzard that brought record snowfall, high wind speeds, and coastal flooding to New York: “FEMA’s decision to again deny Governor Hochul’s request is wrong and a massive blow to New York State’s recovery efforts. In the wake of February’s record-breaking blizzard, our local governments stepped up to protect residents and save lives. Our municipal partners shouldn’t be penalized for doing the right thing, and the federal government has a responsibility to support New York’s full recovery. Once again, this administration is showing that it has unlimited money for bombs, billionaires, and ballrooms, but nothing to help the American people.” Governor Hochul’s Disaster Declaration request was first denied in July despite the blizzard meeting every FEMA threshold for federal assistance. In April, Senators Gillibrand and Schumer called on President Trump to approve Governor Kathy Hochul’s Major Disaster Declaration request. The governor made the request for Public Assistance for Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties, along with Snow Assistance for Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Queens, Richmond, Suffolk, and Westchester Counties, and Hazard Mitigation for the entire state. Tragically, the blizzard resulted in the death of several people across the state of New York. Governor Hochul’s Major Disaster Declaration request under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act would authorize FEMA aid to help New Yorkers recover and rebuild. ###",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-hegseth-extending-mideast-deployments-into-2027/,Gillibrand Statement On Hegseth Extending Mideast Deployments Into 2027,2026-09-03,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Gillibrand: “It is unconscionable to extend troop deployments and continue to waste tens of billions of taxpayer dollars on their failed war, launched without a clear mission, coherent strategy, or exit plan.” U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, issued the following statement on the Wall Street Journal report that Secretary Hegseth is extending troop deployments in the Mideast amid a failed Iran war that has cost tens of billions of taxpayer dollars, wounded hundreds and killed 18 American service members, depleted our stockpile of long-range missiles and air defense interceptors, and cost New Yorkers billions at the gas pump. “The immense sacrifice of our service members and their families is being betrayed by the failures of Secretary Hegseth and President Trump. It is unconscionable to extend troop deployments and continue to waste tens of billions of taxpayer dollars on their failed war, launched without a clear mission, coherent strategy, or exit plan. “This administration has unlimited money for bombs, ballrooms, and billionaires, but nothing for hardworking families here at home struggling with higher costs on gas, groceries, and essentials because of this war. “If this administration believed in honoring the sacrifice of our service members and their families, they would bring the troops home, end this wasteful war, and replace Pete Hegseth.” This comes weeks after multiple public reports detailing dismal conditions for sailors on the USS Abraham Lincoln from service members’ families and the administration’s callous, despicable response to the plight of America’s heroes. Secretary Hegseth has left our military rudderless, pushed out our best and brightest service members, and embarrassed our military over and over again. As this administration plans to extend troop deployments, remember their statements to the American people that this war was a “total and complete victory,” “won’t be difficult,” was “projected [to last] four to five weeks,” was “winding down,” was ending “very soon,” was “ahead of schedule,” was going to end in “two or three weeks,” then “two to three days,” then “very close,” then again a “few days,” then “going to end pretty soon.” None of this has been true. ###",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-announces-bill-to-make-large-scale-wage-theft-a-felony-nationwide/,Gillibrand Announces Bill To Make Large-Scale Wage Theft A Felony Nationwide,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Ahead of Labor Day, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) announced the Don’t Stand for Taking Employed Americans’ Livings (Don’t STEAL) Act, which would make large-scale wage theft a felony nationwide. Representative Seth Magaziner (D-RI-02) and 28 cosponsors have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. “Working Americans deserve to take home every penny that they have earned, and employers who cheat their employees out of hard-earned wages must be held accountable,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Ahead of Labor Day, I am proud to announce this bill to bring the punishment for wage theft in line with other forms of criminal theft. This is commonsense legislation to help protect workers, and I am determined to get it passed.” “It is outrageous that in the United States of America, someone can face jail time for stealing a television but get only a slap on the wrist for stealing wages from a worker’s paycheck,” said Representative Magaziner. “I am grateful to Senator Gillibrand for leading the fight in the Senate to make wage theft a federal crime and hold accountable bad actors who cheat working people out of their hard-earned pay. I look forward to working with her to pass the Don’t STEAL Act in both chambers and get it signed into law.” Wage theft takes many forms, including employers refusing to pay promised wages, paying subminimum wages, failing to pay for all hours worked, or not paying overtime premiums. Every year, over $15 billion is stolen from workers by their employers. In 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor recovered more than $259 million in back wages and damages owed to 176,957 workers, representing just a fraction of wage theft that occurred that year. This kind of wage theft impacts workers across industries and of all income levels, but it has a more profound impact on low-wage workers, who can least afford to bear the cost of lost earnings. The Don’t STEAL Act would help protect workers by strengthening penalties for wage theft, bringing them in line with other forms of criminal theft under federal law. Under this legislation, employers who willfully fail to pay wages, deny overtime, or steal tips will face misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the severity of the violation. Currently, wage theft is treated at most as a misdemeanor. The Don’t STEAL Act also brings penalties for wage theft in line with other common forms of theft under federal law. Today, employers who commit willful wage theft can be fined no more than $10,000. This bill eliminates that cap and requires fines to be proportional to the amount of wages stolen. This legislation is endorsed by 15 organizations, including AFL-CIO and several other labor unions. Senator Gillibrand plans to formally introduce the Don’t STEAL Act when the Senate returns to session later this month. The full text of the legislation can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-calls-for-trump-admin-to-fully-restore-counterterrorism-funding-withheld-from-new-york-echoing-governor-hochul-and-mayor-mamdani/,"Gillibrand Calls For Trump Admin To Fully Restore Counterterrorism Funding Withheld From New York, Echoing Governor Hochul And Mayor Mamdani",2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"AHEAD OF 25th ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11, TRUMP ADMIN MUST FULLY RESTORE ANTI-TERRORISM FUNDING Today, less than two weeks before the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks in New York City on 9/11, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) released the following statement after New York Governor Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani called on the Trump administration to fully restore New York’s counterterrorism funding: “President Trump is using New Yorkers as political pawns once again,” said Senator Gillibrand. “New York is the leading terrorist target in the nation. As we approach the 25th anniversary of 9/11, defunding our law enforcement and counterterrorism operations is especially egregious and unsafe. I will keep fighting to ensure New Yorkers are protected and our state receives the funding it needs to keep us all safe.” Last year, the Trump administration cut $187 million, or 86%, from New York’s federal counterterrorism funding – the largest federal defunding of police operations in New York in decades. After pressure from state and federal leaders, the Federal Emergency Management Agency restored $100 million, leaving New York without $87 million to support local law enforcement and counterterrorism operations. Specifically, the remaining $87 million would support security preparedness efforts including intelligence operations, mass gathering security, planning, equipment purchases, and training critical to sustaining and improving community prevention, protection, response, and recovery capabilities. ###",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-colleagues-demand-department-of-education-release-funding-for-school-based-mental-health-services/,"Gillibrand, Colleagues Demand Department Of Education Release Funding For School-Based Mental Health Services",2026-08-31,2026,2026-08,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 (D-NY) joined 12 of her Senate colleagues in urging the Department of Education to disburse the funds abruptly and unlawfully canceled for the School-Based Mental Health Services (SBMH) and Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration (MHSP) grant programs and to halt its attempts to undermine the grant programs. “Protecting our children’s mental health should not be a partisan issue,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Trump administration’s appalling efforts to terminate SBMH and MHSP grant funding are harming our students, particularly as the shortage of mental health professionals and school counselors persists nationwide. The Department of Education must immediately disburse the funds our schools are legally owed and restore the support that students are counting on.” Upon canceling over 200 of these grants in April 2025, the Trump administration attempted to justify their cuts to school-based mental health funding by claiming that grant programs promoted diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and did not adhere to the administration’s policy priorities. The senators pushed back against this false claim, pointing to the significant impact to mental health staffing and resources that thousands of students relied on. “The Department’s recent actions create significant operational uncertainty for local school districts, interrupting student access to care and stalling the recruitment of future school-based mental health care professionals,” the senators wrote in a new letter to U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon. “These choices will increase the financial and administrative barriers to obtaining a quality education. We therefore demand that the Department disburse the funds grantees are contractually owed in a timely manner to ensure local school programs face no further disruption.” These grants – part of the 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act – address the shortage of mental health professionals, social workers and services in our nation’s schools, especially those in rural and underserved areas. “Despite these grants’ clear effectiveness, the Department sent boilerplate notices in April 2025 to 70 SBMH and 153 MHSP recipients claiming that these grantees did not adhere to the Trump administration’s priorities and policy preferences,” the senators continued. “The notices failed to provide specific, individualized explanations for why the grants were abruptly discontinued. Consequently, grantees were forced to pause hiring and training and lay off school counselors, psychologists, and social workers. MHSP-supported graduate programs could also no longer fund the scholarships needed to recruit students.” After a court-ordered injunction and restraining order stemming the grant cancellations, the Trump administration imposed additional requirements upon grantees before deciding to release funding for the second half of the year – causing greater uncertainty for schools. “We insist that the Department honor the statutory funding directives enacted by Congress, resolve the administrative barriers affecting the pipeline of mental health professionals in our nation’s schools, and ensure that students have access to these crucial services. To cut, delay, and otherwise obstruct these grants is not only unlawful, but also unconscionable in light of the mental health crisis facing our youth. It’s not an exaggeration to say that young lives are at stake. Please step in to help,” the senators concluded. In addition to Senator Gillibrand, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Angus King (I-ME), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The full text of the letter can be found here and below. Dear Secretary McMahon: We write to request immediate clarification regarding the Department of Education’s (the Department) termination of $1 billion in School-Based Mental Health Services Grant (SBMH) and Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration Grant (MHSP) programs. The Department’s recent actions create significant operational uncertainty for local school districts, interrupting student access to care and stalling the recruitment of future school-based mental health care professionals. These choices will increase the financial and administrative barriers to obtaining a quality education. We therefore demand that the Department disburse the funds grantees are contractually owed in a timely manner to ensure local school programs face no further disruption. Funded by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the SBMH and MHSP programs address the dire shortage of mental health service providers in our nation’s schools. More than half of schools in the nation reported their ability to provide mental health services to students was limited in a significant way by inadequate funding, while 40 percent described insufficient access to mental health professionals as a barrier. SBMH grants help schools hire and retain counselors, psychologists, and other mental health professionals, specifically targeting areas with a demonstrated need, like rural and low-income communities. MHSP grants enable institutions of higher education and school districts to enter partnerships to recruit and train mental health professionals to work in schools. The efficacy of SBMH and MHSP is supported by clear performance metrics. In just one year, grantees reached nearly 775,000 K-12 students nationwide, reduced absenteeism and behavioral issues, lowered suicide risk, trained and hired nearly 1,300 mental health professionals, and retained a vast majority of new and existing mental health professionals. These programs fill crucial gaps in mental health care for youth in our nation’s schools. A 2023 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention survey found that 40 percent of high school students reported feeling sad or hopeless, an increase from 30 percent in 2013. Twenty-nine percent of high school students reported experiencing poor mental health and nine percent shared that they had attempted suicide. Despite these grants’ clear effectiveness, the Department sent boilerplate notices in April 2025 to 70 SBMH and 153 MHSP recipients claiming that these grantees did not adhere to the Trump Administration’s priorities and policy preferences. The notices failed to provide specific, individualized explanations for why the grants were abruptly discontinued. Consequently, grantees were forced to pause hiring and training and lay off school counselors, psychologists, and social workers. MHSP-supported graduate programs could also no longer fund the scholarships needed to recruit students. In June 2025, 16 states, home to 140 of the canceled grants, sued the Department, arguing that the discontinuation of the grants violated the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). A district court subsequently issued a preliminary injunction against the discontinuation and then granted summary judgment and a permanent injunction to the plaintiff states, finding that the Department’s actions were inconsistent with statutory requirements. The U.S. Court of Appeals for Ninth Circuit denied the Department’s request to stay the permanent injunction. The Department resumed 122 of the grants through June 30, 2026, imposing additional reporting requirements before deciding whether to release funding for the second half of the year. This process caused serious administrative uncertainty because grantee organizations could not reliably and effectively project budgets to determine if they would have the funds to hire and train mental health professionals. Some grantees were forced to lay off employees, exacerbating the challenges they face in addressing student mental health. Furthermore, the Administration has indicated plans to permanently discontinue these grants, raising serious concerns regarding compliance with standing federal permanent injunctions and the July 27, 2026, Temporary Restraining Order. The Department’s decision to withhold this funding from our nation’s schools will reverberate as the new school year starts in the fall, and the harm will be exacerbated if the Department continues to disrupt or withhold SBMH and MHSP funding. Our nation’s schools are already facing significant barriers to retaining mental health professionals, who serve as trusted adults for students and their parents. These interruptions in student services disrupt the continuity of care. The Department’s actions will also slow the recruitment of new mental health professionals, disincentivizing prospective counselors and therapists from serving in our nation’s schools. In light of the Department’s actions, we request answers to the following questions by September 18, 2026: How many grantees have received an additional six months of funding after June 30, 2026? Please provide a list containing the name, a description of the grant, the amount, and any associated reporting requirements for each grantee. Will the Department continue to impose similar requirements on these grantees for the remainder of their grant period? What objective evaluation criteria were used to determine program compliance? Please provide a written justification for each discontinued grant including grant-specific reasons that go beyond the generic justification currently offered in the notices. How does the Department plan to address the interruptions and uncertainty for grantees caused by the discontinuations? We insist that the Department honor the statutory funding directives enacted by Congress, resolve the administrative barriers affecting the pipeline of mental health professionals in our nation’s schools, and ensure that students have access to these crucial services. To cut, delay, and otherwise obstruct these grants is not only unlawful, but also unconscionable in light of the mental health crisis facing our youth. It’s not an exaggeration to say that young lives are at stake. Please step in to help. ###",1,2026-09-01T09:48:49Z,2026-09-01T09:49:51Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-disastrous-iran-war-hitting-6-months/,Gillibrand Statement On Disastrous Iran War Hitting 6 Months,2026-08-28,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, Trump and Republicans’ war in Iran has now reached six-months. Over and over again, the American people have heard an endless parade of broken and shifting promises about the war from the president. We were told the war was a “total and complete victory,” “won’t be difficult,” was “projected [to last] four to five weeks”, was “winding down,” was ending “very soon,” was “ahead of schedule,” was going to end in “two or three weeks,” then “two to three days,” then “very close,” then again a “few days,” then “going to end really soon.” None of this has been true. The war has cost tens of billions of taxpayer dollars, wounded hundreds and killed 18 American servicemembers, depleted our stockpile of long-range missiles, and cost New Yorkers billions at the gas pump. Below is a statement on this anniversary from Senator Kirsten Gillibrand: “Today marks six months since Donald Trump launched his disastrous war with Iran that congressional Republicans have fully supported. “We were told this president and Republicans would bring peace and lower prices. Instead, they’ve wasted billions on war while leaving working families behind. “This war was launched without a clear plan, executed without a coherent strategy, and has become a costly, self-inflicted disaster. Every justification we were given for this conflict has proven hollow. “Our service members did not volunteer to be pawns in a chaotic, unauthorized war with no plan and no end in sight. Tragically, many have been wounded or lost their lives in this needless war. “And here at home, New Yorkers have paid the price for this war as well– at the grocery store and the gas pump. This administration has unlimited money for bombs, ballrooms, and billionaires – but nothing for the American people: for their healthcare, their food, their housing, and for their lives. “New Yorkers—and all Americans—deserve better. I pray for our troops and for the end to this war.” ###",1,2026-08-29T11:31:28Z,2026-08-29T11:32:37Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/in-buffalo-and-troy-gillibrand-continues-statewide-tour-addressing-the-rising-cost-of-groceries-lagging-consumer-confidence/,"In Buffalo And Troy: Gillibrand Continues Statewide Tour Addressing The Rising Cost Of Groceries, Lagging Consumer Confidence",2026-08-28,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, standing alongside Upstate New York leaders and advocates in Buffalo and Troy, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand continued her statewide tour addressing the crushing impact of rising grocery and household goods prices on working families. The push follows a recent Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index report showing headline inflation surged to 4.2%, the sharpest 12-month increase since April 2023. In Buffalo, Senator Gillibrand visited FeedMore WNY, an organization that provides food and skills training to Western New Yorkers in need. In Troy, Senator Gillibrand stood at Bargain Grocery, which offers fresh food at discounted prices, expanding food access and avoiding food waste. “Donald Trump promised to tackle rising costs, but instead he has made life unaffordable for New Yorkers,” said Senator Gillibrand. “While Trump has poured billions of dollars into a forever war, New Yorkers cannot afford basic necessities as prices on groceries, gas, and essentials have skyrocketed here at home. I will continue to demand accountability and fight for all Americans being crushed by these unsustainable costs.” “FeedMore WNY is proud to serve our neighbors and help keep our community nourished and thriving,”said Collin Bishop, Vice President of External Affairs for FeedMore WNY. “This includes our distributions and partnerships through our food bank distribution network, our home-delivered meal services supporting our older adults and homebound neighbors, and the fresh, affordable produce we offer through our Farm Market. However, high grocery prices combined with cuts and changes to SNAP have increased the strain on our community members, as well as the emergency food programs that are already operating at or beyond capacity. Access to affordable, nutritious food is a key element in the fight against hunger and maintaining safe, healthy, and robust communities throughout Western New York.” “It is no secret that families are struggling here in New York, and I hear the same concerns from my colleagues on both sides of the aisle across the country,” said Assemblymember John T. McDonald III, RPh. “Federal policies, from tariffs to war continue to drive up the cost of everyday necessities like food and fuel. As one of the few health care professionals in the Legislature, I know firsthand how important access to healthy food is in preventing and managing conditions like hypertension and diabetes. But with rising grocery costs and changes to SNAP enacted by HR1, it is becoming increasingly difficult for families to afford nutritious food. We can and must do better. Every family should be able to afford healthy food and put a nutritious meal on the table.” The spike in costs is hitting New Yorkers directly at the checkout counter, with the prices of staple items like fruits and vegetables climbing 6.1%, and nonalcoholic beverages up 5.8%. With average wage growth lagging significantly behind, working families are experiencing a severe gap in purchasing power, driving consumer confidence down as basic monthly expenses outpace paychecks. Gillibrand blamed the rising costs directly on Trump’s ongoing war in Iran. She reiterated her commitment to curbing military actions abroad to shift the focus back to Americans struggling at home. ###",1,2026-09-01T09:48:49Z,2026-09-01T09:49:51Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/in-syracuse-gillibrand-celebrates-pride-and-new-americans-day-at-the-great-new-york-state-fair/,In Syracuse: Gillibrand Celebrates Pride And New Americans Day At The Great New York State Fair,2026-08-28,2026,2026-08,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 E. Gillibrand visited the Great New York State Fair, where she gaggled with reporters and joined fairgoers to celebrate the two official themes of the day: Pride and New Americans Day. While visiting the various pavilions and booths, Gillibrand also addressed the rising anxiety across New York State regarding increasing gas and grocery prices as part of her statewide “costs” tour. “The Great New York State Fair highlights the very best of our state, from our booming agricultural economy to our vibrant communities,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I am grateful to have experienced all the fair has to offer while celebrating Pride Day and New Americans Day. I also recognize that it is more expensive for New Yorkers to make it to the fair this year thanks to astronomical gas prices, compounded by the fact that New Yorkers are paying more for just about everything. Today was about joy and community, and I was thrilled to join New Yorkers from across the state today to champion equality and welcome our newest neighbors.” During the senator’s visit, she highlighted New York’s deep commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and immigrant communities across the state. She visited the “I Love NY” Pride installation; spoke with representatives promoting LGBTQ+ equity, healthcare access, and community support services statewide; was recognized by the Green Standard Alliance for her leadership in advancing justice and equity in cannabis reform, enjoyed New York Maple Ice Cream, and wrapped up her visit at the newly renamed Haudenosaunee Village to meet with community leaders and vendors. ###",1,2026-09-01T09:48:49Z,2026-09-01T09:49:51Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/following-50-tariff-on-canada-sens-gillibrand-and-welch-rep-schneider-announce-bill-to-repeal-and-refund-president-trumps-tariffs/,"Following 50% Tariff On Canada, Sens. Gillibrand And Welch, Rep. Schneider Announce Bill To Repeal And Refund President Trump’s Tariffs",2026-08-27,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"New York Families Have Spent Over $5,000 More Due To President Trump’s Tariff Chaos And Other Reckless Policies Today, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Peter Welch (D-VT) announced the Banning Antiquated Duties and Delivering Equitable American Levies (BAD DEAL) Act to repeal all tariffs levied under Section 338 of the Tariff Act and refund Americans for all duties paid under this authority. This includes the 50% tariffs on Canada that President Trump announced over the weekend. In response to President Trump’s tariff threats, Canada is pledging dollar-for-dollar retaliatory tariffs slated to come into effect after Labor Day. A trade war with Canada will be detrimental to New York’s economy. Canada is one of New York State’s largest export markets for both goods and services, and the state imports more than $20 billion annually from Canada. Gillibrand and Welch will introduce the BAD DEAL Act in September when the Senate is back in session. Rep. Brad Schneider (D-IL-10) introduced the bill in the U.S. House of Representatives today. The full text of the bill can be found here. “President Trump and Republicans promised to lower costs and make life more affordable, but they’ve used their total power in Washington to make life more expensive than ever,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Let’s be clear: the latest tariffs against Canada are a bad deal for New York families. I’m proud to introduce this legislation to end these costly tariffs and refund Americans. It’s past time for President Trump to stop the political games, get back to the negotiation table, and make a deal that lowers costs and strengthens our economy.” “No good will come of this trade war with Canada. The only thing these tariffs will create is economic pain on both sides of the border, especially for Vermont and the other 33 states that rely on Canada as their largest trading partner,” said Senator Welch. “Imposing on-again, off-again tariffs is the opposite of how we should treat our close friends and longtime allies, but it’s endemic to how the Trump Administration operates. I’m proud to join my colleagues in leading the BAD DEAL Act to repeal these reckless tariffs and reclaim Congress’ constitutional role in setting our trade policy.” “Every American deserves a fair shot to get ahead, and Trump’s capricious and costly tariffs are making it exceedingly difficult to simply make ends meet,” said Rep. Schneider. “President Trump’s brazen and counterproductive trade war only damages the long-standing, mutually beneficial relationship with our neighbor, and second largest trading partner, Canada. This is a bad deal! It’s a bad deal for American families, and it’s a bad deal for American small businesses. I’m proud to work with my colleagues to introduce the aptly named BAD DEAL Act to repeal this outdated tariff authority AND refund the tariff duties paid. We will continue fighting to rein in Trump’s costly tariffs and reassert Congress’ authority before his on-again, off-again trade policy damages our international relationships for years to come.” The president’s tariffs have previously been found to be unconstitutional and have already raised costs on New Yorkers. Poll after poll after poll have found that a resounding majority of Americans oppose Trump’s tariffs actions that have raised prices and hurt their families. Senator Gillibrand has opposed President Trump’s tariffs since the start of his administration. Last year, she joined 14 of her colleagues in introducing the Small Business RELIEF Act to end Trump’s Tariff Tax and refund small businesses their duties paid. She also sent a legal brief with 206 members of Congress emphasizing to the Supreme Court that these tariffs are illegal. ###",1,2026-08-28T17:11:49Z,2026-08-28T17:13:14Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-statement-on-trumps-executive-order-renaming-lake-ontario-lake-america,SCHUMER STATEMENT ON TRUMP’S EXECUTIVE ORDER RENAMING LAKE ONTARIO “LAKE AMERICA”,2026-08-27,2026,2026-08,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 Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer today released the following statement about President Trump’s executive order renaming Lake Ontario “Lake America”: “Instead of lowering costs and cancelling his damaging tariffs, Trump is doubling down on a juvenile effort to rename one of the Great Lakes. He’s escalating his reckless tariff war with our closest trading partner and ally, which will continue to drive up costs for Upstate New York families, seniors and small businesses. It’s a pathetic attempt at distraction, and it’s working families who are paying the price.” ###",1,2026-08-28T17:11:49Z,2026-08-28T17:13:14Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/new-study-families-in-new-york-have-had-to-spend-5000-more-because-of-trump/,"New Study: Families In New York Have Had To Spend $5,000+ More Because Of Trump",2026-08-26,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"JEC Report: The Average Household In New York Has Had To Pay An Additional $5,000+ For Goods And Services Due To Rising Costs Under President Trump Washington, D.C. — Today, a new Joint Economic Committee (JEC) report found that as of July 2026, the average household in New York has had to pay an additional $5,000+ for goods and services due to rising costs under President Trump. When campaigning in 2024, candidate Trump promised, “Starting on day one of my new administration, we will end inflation, and we will make America affordable again.” In response to the new report and Republicans broken promises, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement: “President Trump and Congressional Republicans promised to lower costs and end inflation, instead they’ve made life $5,000 more expensive for New Yorkers,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Look at what they have done: they gutted Medicaid and cut Medicare and health care subsidies to fund tax breaks for billionaires, launched a war that increased gas prices, and supported tariffs to make groceries and essentials more expensive. I will not stop fighting to lower New Yorkers’ costs and hold this administration accountable for hurting working families and small businesses across our state.” Additional breakdowns of the JEC report: Housing Costs New York families have had to spend an additional $1,078 on housing costs such as rent and mortgage payments since President Trump took office. Grocery Costs Americans paid an additional $310 for groceries in President Trump’s first year than in 2024, and grocery prices are now more than 4 percent higher than when Trump took office. Beef and coffee prices are hitting Americans especially hard. Since the President took office, the average price of ground beef has risen almost every month to a record high of more than $7 per pound. Coffee prices also spiked and are now nearly $10 per pound. Energy Costs Gas prices have soared since the start of Trump’s Iran War. In total, people across New York have spent an additional $3 billion on gas since the beginning of the Iran war. That has cost the average family in New York an additional $521 in gas costs Families in New York spent an additional $190 on electricity in 2025 under President Trump than they did in 2024. And, in just the first six months of 2026, they are expected to spend an additional $225 on electricity than they did in the first half of 2024. New York families who use heating oil paid an additional $248 to heat their homes this March compared to last year. Health Care Costs Because of Trump and Republicans’ refusal to extend the Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax cuts that help people afford their health insurance, monthly premiums for ACA plans rose over 50 percent on average in 2026 compared to last year. Meanwhile deductibles surged to record highs, increasing by more than $1,000 on average. Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index and Average Price Data, Joint Economic Committee– Republicans, Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Walmart.com, AAA.com, Edmunds.com, Federal Highway Administration, Energy Information Administration, National Weather Service, heatable.com, Kaiser Family Foundation. Gas cost calculations are current through August 17, 2026. ###",1,2026-08-27T16:10:01Z,2026-08-27T16:10:50Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/after-steady-drumbeat-of-advocacy-schumer-delivers-for-fort-drum-announces-base-has-been-selected-by-army-for-next-generation-nuclear-power-program-to-strengthen-energy-resilience-at-domestic-military-installations,"AFTER STEADY DRUMBEAT OF ADVOCACY, SCHUMER DELIVERS FOR FORT DRUM, ANNOUNCES BASE HAS BEEN SELECTED BY ARMY FOR NEXT-GENERATION NUCLEAR POWER PROGRAM TO STRENGTHEN ENERGY RESILIENCE AT DOMESTIC...",2026-08-26,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Fort Drum Will Be Home To Next-Generation Nuclear Microreactor To Protect Domestic Military Bases From Grid Failures, Critical Energy Deficiencies, And Other Threats Earlier This Month, Schumer Urged The Army To Pick Fort Drum To Demonstrate Safe And Secure, On-Site Nuclear Power Generation Schumer: Fort Drum Will Lead The Next Frontier In Nuclear Power! After calling on U.S. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll to pick Fort Drum for a next-generation nuclear power program, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today announced the Army heeded his call and has selected Fort Drum to spearhead the Janus Program and the Army’s nuclear energy innovation. Schumer explained that the Army will deploy a commercial nuclear microreactor to strengthen the installation’s energy resilience and ability to support military operations on post. Ensuring military sites have secure, reliable power if the commercial power grid goes down is critical for the Army’s readiness. Fort Drum is uniquely qualified to help the Army meet its nuclear energy goals due to its infrastructure, power projection capability, and the 10th Mountain Division’s mission requirements. “As a steadfast supporter and fierce advocate of Fort Drum, I’m proud to announce that the Army heeded my call, selecting Fort Drum to spearhead the deployment of nuclear microreactor technology in the North Country. This is a major win that will strengthen the base’s energy security, protect our Army from grid failures, and reduce strain on the local power grid,” said Senator Schumer. “As one of our nation’s most advanced and strategic military installations, the critical missions Fort Drum supports and executes to advance our national defense require safe and secure, as well as reliable and resilient, onsite power generation. That is why Fort Drum is perfectly poised to lead the next frontier in nuclear power, and I commend the Army for recognizing this and selecting Fort Drum.” The Department of the Army’s Janus Program is an initiative to deploy commercially-owned and operated nuclear microreactors on certain domestic Army installations by 2030. Through the deployment of these microreactors, the program will help strengthen the Army’s installation energy resilience, support evolving mission requirements, and advance the military’s adoption of nuclear energy. Last year, the Army announced that nine military installations—including Fort Drum—were shortlisted for consideration to host a commercial nuclear microreactor under the Janus Program. This week, the Army announced that Fort Drum and four other installations were selected and paired with vendors for the first round of microreactor deployments under the Janus Program. Schumer earlier this month, in a letter to U.S. Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll, explained that Fort Drum—home to Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield and the 10th Mountain Division, the most deployed conventional Army unit since 2001—is one of the most strategic military installations and power projection capabilities in the United States. A nuclear microreactor would provide Fort Drum with a reliable, independent, and continuous source of energy for mission-critical support functions, command and control elements, mobilization activities, and other vital capabilities, including during grid-level energy infrastructure outages. Schumer added that Fort Drum’s location would allow the Army to assess a microreactor’s performance under harsh weather and other conditions needed to inform its efforts to integrate energy solutions into future operations. Schumer also explained Fort Drum currently uses approximately 60 megawatts of power, most of which is pulled from the local grid. Fort Drum is a vital economic and community anchor for the North Country, supporting thousands of military and civilian jobs. Fort Drum is well-equipped to demonstrate how nuclear power can reduce vulnerabilities and reinforce critical U.S. defense infrastructure. It is expected that the commercial microreactor would not require significant land use changes and would be designed to produce up to 20 megawatts (MW) of power to support installation operations. Fort Drum officials and the local community have conveyed support for the site’s selection for the Janus Program. Across decades of service as Fort Drum’s leading champion in Congress, Schumer has fought tirelessly to elevate Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division to US Department of Defense and Army leadership, and the Senator has proudly delivered billions of dollars in federal funding to enhance Fort Drum’s capabilities and readiness, upgrade outdated infrastructure, add thousands of new personnel, and safeguard the future of the North Country’s pillar of national defense and primary economic engine for generations to come. Last year, after personally meeting with 10th Mountain Division Commanding General Scott Naumann and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll to push for critical upgrades to Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield, Schumer landed $18 million in federal funding as a downpayment on the long-overdue modernization of the airfield’s lighting and electrical system, which currently uses components that date as far back as the 1950s and are far beyond the end of their useful life. The year prior, Schumer fought for and delivered $18.5 million in the Senate’s Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the planning and design of a new aircraft maintenance hangar and an Operational Readiness Training Complex at Fort Drum. Schumer also secured nearly $10 million in the FY2023 end-of-year spending package for the planning and design of a new physical fitness testing facility field house, and to modernize one of the installation’s key Access Control Points (ACP). In 2022, after a series of personal appeals to former Army Secretary Christine Wormuth and announcing that Fort Drum was selected as a finalist, Schumer successfully secured one of the Army’s prestigious Multi-Domain Task Force (MDTF) for Fort Drum. That same year, after personal calls to former Army Secretary Mark Esper and Army Chief of Staff James McConville, the Senator successfully secured over $27 million in federal funding to construct a new railhead at Fort Drum and replace the installation’s existing water supply, which was vulnerable to multiple forms of contamination. Schumer was also proud to fight for and deliver more than $21 million for a new Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Hangar in 2020, $19 million in funding for a new non-commissioned officer (NCO) training academy in 2015, and many more exciting wins in support of Fort Drum, the 10th Mountain Division, and the brave men and women who serve there. ###",1,2026-08-28T17:11:49Z,2026-08-28T17:13:14Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-after-visiting-chautauqua-county-to-launch-push-to-help-western-new-york-grape-farmers-after-major-contracts-were-canceled-and-gillibrand-announce-usda-has-agreed-to-purchase-20-million-in-surplus-concord-grape-juice-for-food-assistance-programs,"SCHUMER, AFTER VISITING CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY TO LAUNCH PUSH TO HELP WESTERN NEW YORK GRAPE FARMERS AFTER MAJOR CONTRACTS WERE CANCELED, AND GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE USDA HAS AGREED TO PURCHASE $20 MILLION IN...",2026-08-25,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"“Bonus Buy” Will Help Local Western NY Farmers After Major NY Grape Processor Abruptly Canceled Contracts Earlier This Year After They Had Already Invested In Preparing Their Vineyards For The Season Last Week Schumer Stood With Western New York Grape Farmers And Called On USDA To Use Authority To Purchase Excess Grapes For Domestic Food Assistance Programs & Help Keep Upstate Concord Grape Farmers Growing Schumer, Gillibrand: Grape Purchase Is Win-Win For Local Farmers And Putting American-Grown Grapes To Good Use After Schumer stood with Western New York grape farmers just last week – after their contracts for this season were suddenly terminated – to call on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to purchase Concord grape juice for use by domestic nutrition programs across the country, U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has heeded their call and will purchase $20 million in surplus product to ensure the continued success of Concord grape growers in New York. Earlier this year, Refresco suddenly canceled contracts with approximately 126 farmers across New York and Pennsylvania after they had already invested in preparing their vineyards for this season, leaving local growers in a lurch. The senators explained today’s announcement provides much-needed relief for Western New York grape farmers who were facing growing uncertainty amid rising costs and the loss of a major client. “Everyone knows the best Concord grapes come from Upstate New York. But when Refresco cancelled contracts with many grape farmers earlier this year, growers were left in a lurch with nowhere to sell their harvests. That’s why, last week, I stood shoulder to shoulder with Western New York grape farmers in Chautauqua County and urged the USDA to buy extra Concord grape juice for nutrition programs,” said Senator Schumer. “I’m proud to announce that USDA has heeded my call to purchase Concord grape juice. This is a win for Upstate farmers, families, and New York’s economy. I’ll keep fighting for our growers and a stronger domestic food supply chain.” “Earlier this year, New York State Concord grape farmers were left stranded after having their contracts suddenly canceled,” said Senator Gillibrand. “That is why I called on the USDA to step in and purchase surplus Concord grape juice for federal nutrition programs. I am thrilled that the USDA answered our call by enacting Section 32 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act to support Western New York’s growers during this critical time. This decision delivers relief to our local farming families and protects a critical part of New York’s agricultural economy."" Chautauqua County is the leading grape-producing county in the state and the largest grape-growing county in the country outside of California. Every year, about 800 growers produce 150,000 tons or more of grapes on more than 22,000 acres on the Lake Erie Plain across northern Pennsylvania and Western New York. Products like juices and jellies that come from Concord grapes are processed locally and sold across the world. The Cornell Cooperative Extension estimates that the Lake Erie Grape Belt region supports about 2,000 jobs, contributes upwards of $300 million in economic impact, and supports a fruit and vegetable processing industry that employs over 5,000 workers. Western New York’s grape sector is an economic anchor for the state’s agricultural industry, as Lake Erie’s shallow depth extends the growing season by moderating temperatures as it keeps air moving when grapes are at risk for frost. The region extends far beyond Chautauqua County. Niagara County is home to the Niagara Escarpment American Viticultural Area, which contains nearly 60 farms across more than 1,000 acres of vineyard. The Niagara grape was created in Niagara County by cross-breeding Concord and Cassady grapes and is now a staple for making white grape juice. In March, Refresco, a major processor for many New York grape farmers, canceled all of its contracts with grape growers. Refresco bought from 126 grape growers across New York and Pennsylvania in the Lake Erie region. Since then, New York’s grape growers have been struggling in the face of an uncertain future. In early June, over two months ago, Schumer sent a letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and explained that purchasing grapes for use by domestic nutrition programs would alleviate stress for Concord grape growers in Western New York. Section 32 funds, which are the source of funding for the grape buy announced today, are authorized by Section 32 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1933 and used by USDA to purchase agricultural products, which are in turn used for nutrition programs such as the school lunch program. These “bonus buys” have been used by USDA in the past to stabilize agricultural markets, support communities, and deliver nutritious food to those who need it most. In fact, earlier this year, Schumer and Gillibrand fought to secure exactly such a purchase by USDA to stabilize prices for New York grape farmers. Section 32 has also been deployed successfully for Concord grapes in 2006, 2007, 2009, 2014, 2017, and 2024. ###",1,2026-08-26T05:33:32Z,2026-08-26T05:34:56Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-sasc-democrats-call-on-chairman-wicker-to-hold-a-hearing-on-the-trump-administrations-worsening-strain-on-troops-from-extended-war-in-iran/,"Gillibrand, SASC Democrats Call On Chairman Wicker To Hold A Hearing On The Trump Administration’s Worsening Strain On Troops From Extended War In Iran",2026-08-25,2026,2026-08,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 (D-NY), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), joined her fellow SASC Democratic colleagues in urging Committee Chairman Wicker to hold a hearing to investigate the Trump administration’s failure to support our service members who are carrying out indefinite extended deployments in the illegal, disastrous Iran war. In a letter to Chairman Wicker, the senators laid out how this administration’s failure to end this war has taken a widespread physical, emotional and mental toll on troops deployed to the region, even beyond the disturbing conditions reported aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln—with dwindling supplies and deteriorating conditions aboard numerous ships and across bases in the region. The American people and military families deserve answers from the Trump administration about how they intend to break this cycle that is crushing morale, stranding our troops in grim conditions and leaving military families unsure how to make ends meet while their loved ones in uniform serve longer extended deployments with no end in sight. “There must be accountability for the worsening strain endured by our service members serving in a reckless war started with no justification, no clear objective, and no exit strategy,” said Senator Gillibrand. “As our families pay sky-high prices back at home, our service members and their families are making immense sacrifices, and this administration owes them better than open disrespect. That this administration can enrich itself and spend endless taxpayer dollars on unlimited bombs and interior decorating, but cannot provide our service members with sufficient food and medication, is completely unacceptable. I demand hearings, accountability, and a clear plan to provide our troops with the resources and respect they deserve.” Not only is President Trump’s disastrous, indefinite and illegal war hurting morale and readiness, but SASC Democrats also raised serious concerns that these ongoing incidents could have direct consequences on our nation’s ability to recruit and retain members of our military. They wrote,“Military families and the American people deserve answers about when our heroes will come home and how DoD plans to restore military readiness that has been drained by this war. Supply shortages and unjustified extended deployments also have a real impact on our ability to recruit and retain our servicemembers – why would anyone sign up to fight when they fear they will be exploited and left without supplies, recourse or support? Not only do we owe our troops the bare minimum respect and support they deserve, but it is a recruitment and retention imperative.” “The stakes couldn’t be higher,” the senators continued. “The longer this Administration fails to articulate a plan to end this disastrous war, the longer our brave servicemembers will pay the price.” Senator Gillibrand continues to demand accountability for the Trump administration’s treatment of service members in Iran and their families at home. Earlier this month, following reports of deteriorating conditions for sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, she called for hearings and a plan to protect American service members in the region. She joined SASC Democrats in July to press Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth over inconsistencies in the Pentagon’s public casualty reporting, demanding a full and accurate accounting of the human cost of the war. She also launched an investigation into reports that Secretary Hegseth failed to take basic steps to protect troops in the Middle East, including ahead of a strike that killed six service members and injured dozens in Kuwait. The full text of the letter can be found here and below: Dear Chairman Wicker: We request that you convene a public Armed Services Committee hearing with Department of Defense (DoD) leadership regarding the poor planning and mismanagement of extended deployments to support Iran operations and the impact on our troops. Recent reports of sailors suffering from severe mental health issues amid deteriorating conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln have only added to a disturbing pattern of failures to adequately plan and support our troops, who have been away from their families indefinitely as the Iran War drags on. On August 11, Military Times reported that multiple sailors on board the USS Abraham Lincoln currently supporting Iran operations attempted to jump overboard, a heartbreaking decision in effort to escape the mental health toll of an extended deployment that was planned to end in May but is now at 9 months and counting. Horrifying messages from military families described other poor conditions onboard the Lincoln, including food rationing, rotten meals, shortages of supplies like water and soap, overflowing toilets, broken facilities and disrupted mail delivery. It took nine months for the Navy to relieve the Lincoln with the USS George Washington, after conditions had reached such severity that military families directly confronted the Acting Secretary of the Navy. This has revealed the real impact of unplanned deployment extensions on our ability to maintain and logistically support our ships in a contested environment. This is not the first time during this war that we have seen the consequences of extended deployments onboard an aircraft carrier or even other ships. Sailors on the USS Ford experienced hundreds of broken toilets and significant damage from a non-combat fire that injured multiple sailors and affected 100 sleeping berths and forced it to redirect to Greece for emergency repair. After this emergency repair, the Ford was again sent back to the Red Sea to support Iran operations – eventually completing 11 months of deployment, even though the Navy tries to limit deployments to seven months. Military families of servicemembers on board the multiple ships as part of the Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) in the region have reported emotional and financial strain from the unplanned extensions, struggling to balance work and childcare and caught in limbo with disrupted plans every time orders are extended. Both the Lincoln and the Ford Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) were redirected from their original missions to support President Trump’s illegal wars of choice. The Lincoln originally deployed in November to conduct routine patrols in the Indo-Pacific, but was redirected to the Middle East in January to support the start of the Iran operations. The Ford ultimately served a whopping 11 months at sea – redirected three times from an original mission to support deterrence in Europe, to operations in the Caribbean Sea and against Venezuela, to Iran operations. This Administration has failed to explain why it has insisted on stretching our sailors in this way without adequate planning – let alone for unauthorized wars of choice. The strain on our troops is not confined to the Navy. In fact, our offices and press have heard storyafter story of Soldiers and Airmen, including National Guardsmen and Reservists, seeing their deployments extended with uncertainty about when they will be relieved by other units and can return home to their families. Bases in the Middle East originally designed to support a specific footprint have been stretched to support a much larger scale of units now stationed there – and conditions are deteriorating as too many people meet too little space and supplies. The toll this illegal, disastrous war is taking on our troops is unconscionable. Troops are suffering because of this Administration’s inability to end this war or make the environment safe enough for our servicemembers to be delivered the food, medication or supplies they need. All these developments strongly indicate a systemic failure of planning and adaptation by the Secretary of Defense and senior DoD leaders. It is appalling that in month seven of the Iran War, DoD still continues to fail to anticipate and plan for the second-order consequences of the President’s choices to continue this war with no end. Military families and the American people deserve answers about when our heroes will come home and how DoD plans to restore military readiness that has been drained by this war. Supply shortages and unjustified extended deployments also have a real impact on our ability to recruit and retain our servicemembers – why would anyone sign up to fight when they fear they will be exploited and left without supplies, recourse or support? Not only do we owe our troops the bare minimum respect and support they deserve, but it is a recruitment and retention imperative. The stakes couldn’t be higher. The longer this Administration fails to articulate a plan to end this disastrous war, the longer our brave servicemembers will pay the price. We request a public hearing to help Congress and the public better understand how we got here and how the Department will ensure it never happens again. We call on the Department to explain to Congress, military families and the American people how it assesses and justifies the readiness impacts of these extended deployments, how it plans for relief rotations and what accounts for the systemic failures to provide troops with the support they need to do the mission the President has illegally asked of them. Importantly, the Department must justify and detail exactly how it plans to sustain our troops in this war indefinitely — as the President’s negotiations continue to fail. As Members of this Committee, we take seriously our responsibility to make sure the U.S. military is properly led, well-resourced, supported and able to conduct its missions. We believe it is critical that we conduct public oversight to ensure that whenever we ask the military to answer the Nation’s call, we will have their backs – not leave them stranded with no support. For these reasons, we urge the Committee to convene a hearing at the earliest opportunity to examine these issues directly with DoD leaders. ###",1,2026-08-28T17:11:49Z,2026-08-28T17:13:14Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-schumer-tonko-raise-the-alarm-amid-impending-closure-of-schenectady-veterans-affairs-community-based-outpatient-clinic/,"Gillibrand, Schumer, Tonko Raise The Alarm Amid Impending Closure Of Schenectady Veterans Affairs Community Based Outpatient Clinic",2026-08-24,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Closure Would Jeopardize Care for 1,500+ Capital Region Veterans Who Rely on the Schenectady VA Clinic Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Senate Democratic Leader Charles Schumer (D-NY), and Representative Paul Tonko (D-NY-20), following continued concern from local Capital Region veterans, called on Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins to provide more information about the planned closure of the Schenectady Veterans Affairs (VA) Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) at the end of the month. When the closure was announced in March 2026, the lawmakers immediately called on the VA to halt the closure and provide immediate answers to ensure that healthcare for the over 1,500 Capital Region veterans who rely on this clinic would not be disrupted. Now, five months following their original letter and with the closure looming, few questions have been answered. In the letter, the members addressed the lack of communication from the VA and the confusion that Capital Region veterans are experiencing with little to no guidance as to the future of their care. They wrote, “Since the closure was announced this past spring, vanishingly little detail or communication has been made available to veterans or the broader public in the Capital Region. The lack of communication has raised concerns about the burden this disruption will place on veterans with ongoing care. Five months since the announcement of the closure, we continue to hear from veterans and non-profit organizations working to cover gaps in care and transportation for veterans, who find themselves less informed, more confused, and in greater precarity.” The members noted that this would be the second CBOC closure in the Capital Region in five years, forcing veterans to seek out alternative care in places that may be even farther from their homes. They continued, “The communities we represent have expressed significant doubt regarding the VA’s claim that transportation time to the new clinics will be shorter for 80% of veterans. Many older veterans in the area are reliant on public transportation, ride-share services, and friends, family, and their communities for transportation to VA appointments. We are especially concerned that the decision to shift care away from the Schenectady CBOC does not account for the additional bus routes, ride-share costs, and time commitments from friends and families to ensure that veterans have regular access to care at a different facility.” In a series of questions, the members demanded immediate transparency and requested that the VA release concrete data and outreach plans regarding the facility’s closure by August 27th. The inquiry pushes the VA to detail its justification for the closure and the projected impact on veterans in the region, as well as the VA’s plans for ensuring that patients maintain their access to high-quality care. The lawmakers stressed that not a single local veteran or advocacy group had reached out to their offices to voice support for the clinic’s closure. They concluded, “The lack of clear communication and proper planning has caused significant anxiety for veterans in the Schenectady region who place their trust in the VA to manage their care. We urge the VA to listen to the community that would be most immediately affected by this plan, halt the closure of this clinic until all the questions posed in this letter can be properly addressed, and work with us to rebuild trust among veterans in the Capital Region.” The full letter can be read HERE. ###",1,2026-08-25T05:31:37Z,2026-08-25T05:33:09Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-trumps-stupid-price-increasing-canadian-tariffs/,"Gillibrand Statement On Trump’s Stupid, Price-Increasing Canadian Tariffs",2026-08-24,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Trump’s Tariffs Will Only Increase Prices and Hurt New York Consumers and Small Businesses New York and Canada Are Major Trading Partners Today, after President Trump and his administration launched their latest cost-increasing trade war with Canada, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement: “President Trump and Republicans promised to lower costs and make life more affordable, but they’ve used their total power in Washington to make life more expensive than ever. “They’ve cut Medicare and Medicaid to give tax cuts to billionaires, launched a reckless war in Iran that sent gas prices skyrocketing, and pushed tariffs that are making groceries and essentials more expensive. “Let’s be clear: these latest tariffs against Canada directly hit Americans. They will only increase costs on New York families and hurt our state’s small businesses. Trump needs to stop the political games, go back to the negotiation table, and get a deal done that lowers costs and strengthens our economy instead of harming it.” The president’s tariffs have previously been found to be unconstitutional and have already raised costs on New Yorkers. In addition, Canada is one of New York State’s largest export markets for both goods and services, while the state imports more than $20 billion annually from Canada. Poll after poll after poll have found a resounding majority of Americans oppose Trump’s tariffs actions that have raised prices and hurt their families. ###",1,2026-08-25T05:31:37Z,2026-08-25T05:33:09Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-trump-is-ripping-food-from-the-mouths-of-new-york-families-to-pay-for-tax-cuts-for-billionaires/,Gillibrand: Trump Is Ripping Food From The Mouths Of New York Families To Pay For Tax Cuts For Billionaires,2026-08-24,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"New Federal Data Shows SNAP Enrollment Has Fallen More Than 13% Nationwide Under Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” More Than 200,000 New Yorkers Have Been Pushed Off Food Assistance Today, in response to new data showing that enrollment in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has dropped by more than 13% since May 2025 — just before Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” passed with massive SNAP cuts — U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement: “At a time when people can barely afford a cart of groceries or a tank of gas, this president is kicking families off food assistance to fund tax cuts for the richest people in the country — and pouring billions into a war overseas while he does it,” said Senator Gillibrand. “He has money for the wealthy. He has money for war. But somehow, he has nothing for parents trying to feed their children in Buffalo, or Rochester, or the Bronx. Those are not the values of this country, and I will fight to reverse these cuts.” New federal data reported by the Associated Press shows that SNAP enrollment has plunged from 42.2 million Americans in May 2025 to 36.6 million in May 2026 — a drop steeper than the government itself projected. In New York, more than 200,000 people have already fallen off the rolls, and more than 300,000 households are at risk of losing some or all of their food assistance by the end of the year. These New Yorkers having food ripped away from them and their families is the direct and intended result of what President Trump and Republicans believe is their greatest legislative accomplishment: handing tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations, paid for by taking food off the tables of children, seniors, and working families. The cuts land at a moment when families are already stretched to the breaking point. Grocery bills and gas prices remain painfully high, and Gillibrand has repeatedly warned that the administration’s own policies are driving costs up rather than down. Against that backdrop, the president is simultaneously pouring billions of dollars into waging war overseas — money spent abroad while American families are told there is nothing left for them at home. This massive drop in enrollment comes as President Trump’s cuts to SNAP have yet to even fully take effect. Starting October 2026, states will have a larger burden to administer the program. This burden will be forced onto counties, as New York is one of only three states where counties pay the full non-federal share of SNAP administrative costs. The New York State Association of Counties estimates that $168 million will now be shifted to county budgets. Additionally, starting October 2027, the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” will shift the cost of SNAP benefits onto states, forcing states to either bear the cost or choose not to participate in SNAP at all. ###",1,2026-08-25T05:31:37Z,2026-08-25T05:33:09Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/new-poll-makes-clear-market-structure-legislation-must-have-enforceable-ban-on-president-trump-issuing-and-profiting-from-crypto/,New Poll Makes Clear: Market Structure Legislation Must Have Enforceable Ban On President Trump Issuing And Profiting From Crypto,2026-08-23,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Reuters/Ipsos Survey Finds 63% of Americans Say the President’s Crypto Profits are Inappropriate 69% Say Trump’s Private Business Interests are Influencing his Decisions in Office, Including Roughly Half of Republicans A new Reuters/Ipsos survey released this week confirms what Americans across the political spectrum already sense: the president is using the powers of his office to line his own pockets, and they want it stopped. The president reported more than $1.4 billion in crypto-related income last year, largely from World Liberty Financial and the Trump memecoin — ventures he has personally championed. U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) today renewed her call for any digital asset market structure bill to include a firm prohibition on the president, the president’s spouse, and senior officials issuing, sponsoring, or profiting from cryptocurrency while in office. Senator Gillibrand issued the following statement: “The American people see exactly what is happening in plain sight: a president who campaigned on draining the swamp has turned the White House into his personal trading desk. When more than two-thirds of Americans and nearly half of the president’s own party can see his clear conflict of interest, this is no longer a partisan question. It’s a basic test of whether public office is still supposed to serve the public. “We can pass smart, clear rules for digital assets and shut down presidential self-dealing at the same time. There must be an enforceable ban, and any market structure bill that leaves enforcement solely in the hands of the president’s own Justice Department and allows him to profit from crypto isn’t a reform. It’s a permission slip. “I will not vote to hand this president, or any president, a taxpayer-backed license to get rich off the office.” Senator Gillibrand has long argued that Congress cannot write the rules of the road for a trillion-dollar industry while leaving the most obvious conflict of interest untouched. As the Senate considers market structure legislation, she is pressing colleagues on both sides of the aisle to close the loophole that lets a sitting president issue a coin, drive up its value with the megaphone of his office, and pocket the proceeds. In July, Gillibrand called on Senate leadership to ensure that a prohibition on public officials issuing, sponsoring, or profiting from crypto tokens is included in any market structure package. The Reuters survey of 1,166 adults, conducted August 14–17, found that 63% of Americans believe it is inappropriate for President Trump to have profited from cryptocurrency since his return to power, while just 32% said it was appropriate. Nearly seven in ten Americans — including 48% of Republicans — said they believe the president allows his private business interests to influence his decisions in office. ###",1,2026-08-24T05:37:30Z,2026-08-24T05:38:35Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-calls-on-usps-to-work-with-local-community-to-reopen-west-kill-post-office,SCHUMER CALLS ON USPS TO WORK WITH LOCAL COMMUNITY TO REOPEN WEST KILL POST OFFICE,2026-08-20,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"West Kill Post Office Has Served the Local Community Since 1833, But Was Temporarily Closed In January 2025 After Fire Shut Down Small Rural Office – And Postal Services Have Not Yet Returned, Forcing Customers To Travel Over Seven Miles Away To Shandaken To Collect Mail Schumer Urges USPS To Fully Restore Postal Operations So Residents Can Easily Receive Medications, Checks & Bills, Packages, And Other Important Mail Schumer To USPS: West Kill Deserves A Post Office In West Kill A year and a half after a fire forced the closure of the West Kill Post Office, with no communicated plan for reinstatement, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer called on the United States Postal Service (USPS) to work with the local community and fully restore mail services to the hamlet. The West Kill Post Office has served the Greene County hamlet for nearly two centuries, and Schumer said it provides a vital service to residents and the community. For years, Schumer has fought relentlessly to protect post offices across Upstate New York, demanding accountability from the U.S. Postal Service, ensuring rural residents have a voice in decisions that affect them, and defending the local institutions that keep small communities connected. “The West Kill Post Office is more than a place to pick up and drop off mail. For nearly two centuries, it’s been a community hub for residents. Upstate New Yorkers rely on their local post office to receive medications, pay bills, and connect with the rest of the world. But since a fire shut down the post office more than a year and a half ago, to receive mail, residents have been forced to travel over seven miles along a remote highway that lacks cell service and is dangerous to travel in the winter months,” said Senator Schumer. “Every day this post office remains closed, the community of West Kill is deprived of an essential service. For a year and a half, the West Kill community has been asking for answers but has heard nothing. West Kill deserves transparency and action, which is why I’m calling on the USPS to work with residents to immediately reinstate postal service in the town.” In January 2025, a fire forced the USPS to close the West Kill Post Office. For the past year and a half, hundreds of residents have been forced to travel 7.3 miles to access in-person mail services at an alternate site at the Shandaken Post Office. This is a dangerous drive along the remote stretch of State Route 42 through the Deep Notch, which has no cell service and is hard to travel in the winter. Residents have been willing to work constructively with USPS and local officials to find a solution but still lack a clear timeline or meaningful explanation regarding when and where full postal services will return to West Kill. They have emphasized the importance of the post office as a crucial community space, providing important services like access to prescription drugs, hunting and fishing licensing, electric vehicle charging, and Wi-Fi access. Schumer said the USPS must fully and transparently work with the community to restore full mail services in the town. Schumer’s letter to USPS Postmaster General David Steiner can be found HERE or below: Dear Postmaster General Steiner, I write with concern regarding the future of the West Kill Post Office, located at 30 Spruceton Rd, West Kill, NY 12492. It has come to my attention that in January 2025, the United States Postal Service (USPS) issued a temporary closure of the West Kill Post Office, citing smoke damage at the location. Since then, residents of West Kill have been forced to travel over seven miles to access in-person retail mail services. I urge you to act swiftly and diligently to immediately reinstate the West Kill Post Office and restore full mail services in West Kill, whether through a timely restoration of the existing location at West Kill or through securing an alternative location nearby in West Kill. Furthermore, I urge you to act with full transparency and cooperation in engaging the West Kill community on the Postal Service’s plans for reinstating the West Kill Post Office. The West Kill community deserves answers as to the future of their post office – and the USPS must act in full faith and transparency to provide the community with the answers it deserves, and work in close conjunction with the community in determining the future of the West Kill Post Office. For over a year and a half, the hundreds of residents in West Kill, a hamlet in the Town of Lexington, have been forced to travel 7.3 miles to access in-person mail services at an alternate site at the Shandaken Post Office, located at 22 State Route 42, Shandaken, NY 12480. This is a dangerous drive along the remote stretch of State Route 42 through the Deep Notch, which has no cell service and is hard to travel in the winter. The residents of West Kill have been harmed by the Postal Service’s delay in reopening the West Kill Post Office for far too long. Any further delay in reinstating the West Kill Post Office is unacceptable – the Postal Service must immediately act to reopen the West Kill Post Office such that the residents of West Kill will no longer have to face severe challenges to pick up their medications, receive their checks and billing documents, and other important mail. The West Kill community has also demonstrated its willingness to work constructively with USPS and local officials to find a solution. After more than a year and a half, however, residents still lack a clear timeline or meaningful explanation regarding when and where full postal services will return to West Kill. USPS must provide the community with a concrete plan and commitment to restoring local postal services. Therefore, I urge you to immediately act to reinstate the West Kill Post Office in West Kill, NY, and fully and transparently communicate and engage with the West Kill community on the future of the West Kill Post Office. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I look forward to hearing your response. ###",1,2026-08-21T05:30:57Z,2026-08-21T05:32:22Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-convenes-small-business-leaders-to-address-supply-chain-challenges-facing-finger-lakes-craft-beverage-industry,SCHUMER CONVENES SMALL BUSINESS LEADERS TO ADDRESS SUPPLY CHAIN CHALLENGES FACING FINGER LAKES CRAFT BEVERAGE INDUSTRY,2026-08-19,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Says Tariff Costs, Shifting Consumer Trends, And Distribution Disruptions Threaten Upstate New York’s Craft Beverage Industry Senator Backs New York Wine & Grape Foundation’s $500,000 SBA Proposal To Strengthen Supply Chain Resilience Schumer: Support Upstate New York’s Craft Beverage Industry U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer earlier this week convened leaders from craft breweries, wineries, distilleries, and other industries at the Schuyler County Business Park to discuss the growing challenges facing the industry, including changing consumption trends, rising costs from tariffs, and distribution disruptions that are all straining the supply chain. Schumer emphasized that these pressures are hitting small- and mid-sized producers particularly hard and could have a significant impact on rural communities across Upstate New York that rely on craft beverage businesses to support farms, tourism, and restaurants. “New York’s craft breweries, wineries, and distilleries are a cornerstone of Upstate’s economy, and I have fought for years to help these small businesses grow and reach new markets. Today, costs from unwise tariffs, changing consumer trends, and major logistical disruptions are making doing business even harder and putting that progress at risk. That’s why I’m backing the New York Wine & Grape Foundation’s collaborative effort to strengthen our regional supply chain and help producers weather and overcome these challenges,” said Senator Schumer. “New York’s craft beverage industry has been brewing success for years, especially in the Finger Lakes, and we’re not going to let these challenges knock it flat. I’ll keep fighting to make sure Upstate New York’s craft beverage businesses have the federal support they need to navigate these challenges and continue to strengthen local economies.” New York’s craft beverage industry has consistently grown in recent years. According to the New York State Brewers Association (NYSBA), the number of breweries in New York grew from 95 in 2012 to more than 500 in 2024. New York is now the nation’s second-largest craft beer market, with an estimated $4.8 billion economic impact, while annual craft brewery production increased from 557,436 barrels in 2011 to 1,434,992 barrels in 2023. New York is also the third-largest wine-producing state in the nation, behind only California and Washington. New York’s wine and grape industries are a major economic engine as well. According to the New York Wine & Grape Foundation’s latest annual report, the state’s wine and grape industries have directly generated more than $16.81 billion in direct economic impact. Nigar Hale, Executive Director of The Watkins Glenn Area Chamber of Commerce, said, “Craft beverage is woven into the fabric of our rural economy, supporting local farms, tourism, restaurants, and small businesses. We’re facing real challenges, particularly within the distribution side of the supply chain. I appreciate that the Senator took the time to seek out our perspective and listen to the challenges we’re facing firsthand. It was a valuable opportunity to continue the dialogue and work toward solutions.” Ian Conboy, Lucky Hare Brewing Company, said, “New York’s craft breweries are manufacturers, employers, tourism destinations, and important parts of our communities. Rising costs for aluminum, ingredients, and equipment continue to put pressure on small independent breweries. We appreciate Senator Schumer listening to New York brewers and working to ensure federal policy supports American manufacturers and keeps our industry strong.” Rick Rainey, Forge Cellars, said, “The New York wine industry has a substantial economic impact for the state of New York and all of the residents. Senator Schumer’s efforts to help bring more New York wine to more New Yorkers is a big win-win for our state and can have far reaching positive impact. #NYdrinksNY” Schumer said the industry is facing continued uncertainty from counterproductive U.S. tariffs that raise the cost of cans, packaging, equipment, and other inputs for New York craft producers. The latest threat of additional 50% tariffs on Canadian imports has created additional uncertainty, raising costs and making it harder for businesses to plan ahead. Schumer has long worked with local vineyards and the New York Wine & Grape Foundation to increase export access to Canada, including Ontario’s Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO), one of the largest single wine buyers in the world. Historically, his work helped Finger Lakes wines reach LCBO shelves in recent years, unlocking an important market for New York producers. In part, thanks to Schumer’s efforts, Canada had become the largest market for American wine outside the U.S., making continued access to Canadian consumers especially important for New York’s wine industry. However, in response to the Trump administration’s reckless tariffs in 2025, Canada imposed retaliatory measures, causing Canadian imports of U.S. alcoholic beverages to plummet by approximately $581 million, or 81 percent, in a one year period compared to a similar period the year prior. “Instead of focusing our energy on outcompeting rivals like China, the Trump administration has unwisely chosen to pick a damaging and cost-spiking tariff fight with our closest ally and biggest trading partner, Canada. And that is deeply damaging to this industry and to the Upstate economy in general, which borders Canada,” said Senator Schumer. At the same time, changing national consumption patterns are creating new challenges for New York’s wine industry, requiring local growers and producers to adapt to a changing marketplace and face increased competition. Schumer said higher costs, downturns in consumption, and the loss of access to much of the Canadian market have major regional consequences on the craft beverage industry. These challenges have been further compounded by four logistics disruptions in the past six months. In March 2026, the closure of DNT Express, a Clyde-based freight forwarder that served Finger Lakes wineries, eliminated a critical logistics provider. In May, Manhattan Beer & Beverage acquired the Opici Wine Distributor’s New York portfolio, affecting Finger Lakes wineries and creating another major distribution transition. In July, national beverage distributor RNDC filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, adding further uncertainty to an already strained distribution system. Lastly, the closure of the historic Pleasant Valley Wine Company eliminated another important regional storage and distribution resource. Together, these disruptions have left producers scrambling for reliable freight forwarding, cold storage, and distribution capacity. To help address these challenges, Schumer announced his support for the New York Wine & Grape Foundation’s application for $500,000 through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Supply Chain Acceleration and Logistics Enablement (SCALE) Program to support the marketing research, business modeling, governance, financial analysis, and legal planning needed to evaluate a multi-beverage logistics cooperative serving New York’s wine, beer, spirits and cider producers. A cooperative could help restore reliable storage and shipping capacity, expand market access, and strengthen supply chain resilience. Schumer said the Schuyler County Business Park underscores the importance of strategic federal investment in Upstate communities, with the park serving as a platform for economic development in the Southern Tier, including the growth of the region’s craft beverage industry, such as Lucky Hare Brewing Company. Schumer previously visited the business park in 2023 to promote the bipartisan ONSHORE Act, which sought to strengthen industrial sites, infrastructure, and workforce development so rural communities can attract businesses and critical supply chains. Schumer’s letter to the Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, Kelly Loeffler, can be found HERE or below: Dear Administrator Loeffler, I am pleased to write in strong support of the New York Wine & Grape Foundation’s application for $500,000 through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Supply Chain Acceleration and Logistics Enablement (SCALE) Program. This funding will enable the Foundation to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for a producer-owned logistics cooperative serving New York’s wine, beer, spirits, and cider producers. Established by New York State in 1985 as an economic development entity, the New York Wine & Grape Foundation has the statewide industry, relationships, authority, and technical capacity necessary to coordinate this effort. New York’s craft beverage producers – particularly small and mid-sized businesses in the Finger Lakes and other rural communities across Upstate New York – have been hit by overlapping losses in freight-forwarding, cold-storage, and distribution capacity. The foundation has brought craft beverage associations together around a collaborative response and is well-positioned to develop a durable solution that strengthens market access and supply-chain resilience. If awarded, the foundation will complete the marketing research, business modeling, governance design, financial analysis, and legal planning needed to evaluate and establish a multi-beverage logistics cooperative. A successful cooperative would restore reliable storage and shipping capacity, expand access to markets, and help New York producers across the industry remain competitive. For additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me or my Grants Director, Kaia Moore, in my Washington office at grants@schumer.senate.gov. Thank you for your consideration. ###",1,2026-08-20T05:28:41Z,2026-08-20T05:29:58Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-trumps-endless-war-in-iran/,Gillibrand Statement On Trump’s Endless War In Iran,2026-08-18,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, following the official lapse of President Trump’s 60-day ceasefire deal with Iran and his threat to broaden and prolong the war even further by bombing Oman, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, released the following statement: “Every day that Trump’s reckless war drags on is another day that working families suffer. Americans are struggling to fill up their gas tanks, pay their soaring utility bills, and put food on the table, all while their president spends billions of taxpayer dollars fighting a war he had no reason to start in the first place. Now, with no peace deal in sight and no objectives achieved, Trump is threatening to drop even more bombs in the Middle East – this time on one of our allies. His actions are an embarrassment, his war is a failure, and the American people are paying the price.” ###",1,2026-08-19T05:29:02Z,2026-08-19T05:30:24Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-delivers-16-federal-investment-cuts-ribbon-on-new-keuka-college-rural-community-outpatient-clinic,"SCHUMER DELIVERS $1.6 FEDERAL INVESTMENT, CUTS RIBBON ON NEW KEUKA COLLEGE RURAL COMMUNITY OUTPATIENT CLINIC",2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Secured Federal Investment To Expand Access To Affordable Healthcare In Yates County, Nursing Care, Occupational Therapy, Social Work Counseling, Athletic Training, Physical Therapy, And Wellness Coaching To Rural Communities New Clinic Will Serve ~1,000 Rural Residents And Create Hands-On Health Care Training Opportunities For 100 College Students Each Year Schumer: New Clinic Is Win-Win For Yates County Families And Keuka College Students After launching his push to deliver federal funding three years ago, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today joined Keuka College leaders to cut the ribbon on the College’s new Rural Community Outpatient Clinic. The planned clinic will address a critical need in a county with limited health care resources by providing area residents with healthcare services including nursing care, occupational therapy, social work counseling, athletic training, physical therapy, and wellness coaching. The new clinic will also strengthen career pathways and help prepare the next generation of health care professionals to serve the region by giving Keuka College students hands-on clinical training opportunities. Schumer celebrated the opening of this community facility and pledged to keep fighting for more federal resources to strengthen rural health care access across the Finger Lakes region. “When Keuka College leaders came to me asking for help to build a new Rural Community Outpatient Clinic, I promised I wouldn’t stop fighting until they got every penny they needed to build the health care facility the community deserves. I’m proud to be here today after delivering $1.6 million in federal funding for this critical project and to say a promise made is a promise kept,” said Senator Schumer. “Today, we don’t just cut a ribbon. We open a door for 1,000 rural residents in the surrounding community who can now access needed health care services and the hundreds of Keuka College students who can get the clinical training opportunities they need to become healthcare professionals. I will always fight to ensure New York’s rural communities have the resources they need to access affordable health care services.” Keuka College President Amy Storey said, “Keuka College is grateful to Senator Schumer for his leadership and for securing the federal funding that helped make this vision a reality. This clinic represents an important investment in the health and well-being of rural communities while creating valuable opportunities for Keuka College students – the next generation of healthcare professionals – to learn and serve. We are proud to partner with Senator Schumer and others throughout our region to expand access to clinical services and prepare students to meet the healthcare needs of the future.” The senator fought to deliver the necessary funding for Keuka College to create its Rural Community Outpatient Clinic. In September 2023, Schumer stood in Yates County to successfully push for $1.6 million in federal funding through the FY2024 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies budget bill to move the project over the finish line and get rural Yates County residents the healthcare facility they deserve. The clinic will be a one-stop shop for health care and wellness services. Schumer explained the clinic will be a win-win for the community, training much-needed new nurses and healthcare workers while serving an additional ~1,000 area residents. The establishment of this comprehensive clinic will also support enrollment at Keuka College by providing clinical training opportunities for 100 students per year in the College’s healthcare programs. According to Keuka College, approximately 85% of alumni remain in New York after graduation, making a significant contribution to the state's healthcare workforce. Schumer underscored that strengthening career pathways and helping prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals to serve the region is vital. In 2025, a report that examined shortages in health professionals in 16 rural counties–including Yates–identified low rates of health care providers as well as a lack of access to basic care in many counties. Schumer emphasized that the creation of the rural outpatient clinic will provide access to a variety of affordable healthcare in an area that lacks sufficient services within a 30-mile radius. ###",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-launches-push-for-5-million-federal-funding-package-to-improve-infrastructure-expand-capacity-and-enhance-safety-at-new-yorks-first-state-veterans-cemetery-in-seneca-county,"SCHUMER LAUNCHES PUSH FOR $5 MILLION FEDERAL FUNDING PACKAGE TO IMPROVE INFRASTRUCTURE, EXPAND CAPACITY, AND ENHANCE SAFETY AT NEW YORK’S FIRST STATE VETERANS CEMETERY IN SENECA COUNTY",2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"After Previously Helping Deliver $3.9 Million To Establish The Cemetery In 2023, Schumer’s Push Now Includes $3 Million For Critical Gateway, Entrance, Safety & Accessibility Upgrades At New York State Veterans Cemetery – Finger Lakes In Upcoming Budget Bill Schumer Also Announces Push for $2 Million Pending VA Grants To Add 300 New Burial Plots, Fencing & Lighting, Stormwater Infrastructure, And To Maintain & Care For Veteran Headstones Schumer: Honor Our Heroes With The Resting Place They Deserve Standing with local Veterans at the New York State Veterans Cemetery – Finger Lakes in Romulus, New York, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today launched his push to secure nearly $5 million in federal funding to expand, modernize, and improve New York’s first state veterans cemetery. Schumer explained the funding would upgrade the cemetery’s gateway and entrance, expand cemetery capacity, and preserve the dignity of the cemetery’s sacred grounds. “New York State Veterans Cemetery in the Finger Lakes, located at the former Sampson military base, is hallowed ground, rooted in the history of hundreds of thousands of World War II and Korean War-era service members who trained here before going on to defend our nation. As we celebrate our country’s 250th anniversary this year, we must honor the service and sacrifices of Americans who have served in the armed forces,” said Senator Schumer. “That is why I am here today to launch my push for nearly $5 million in federal support to make critical upgrades to this historic veterans cemetery. I was proud to help deliver the pivotal funding needed to establish this cemetery as New York’s first-ever state veterans cemetery, but that was only the first step. Now, the cemetery is in need of greater burial capacity and resources to care for the headstones of these heroes, as well as safety, accessibility, and infrastructure upgrades. I’m proud to launch my push for over $5 million to ensure that our nation’s veterans have the dignified resting place they have earned after fighting to protect our freedom.” Located in Seneca County, New York – the birthplace of Memorial Day – New York State Veterans Cemetery – Finger Lakes is a nationally-recognized memorial that honors hundreds of thousands of veterans, including 33 Purple Heart recipients connected to the historic Sampson military installations, who trained and served our nation. Originally built in 1942 as a U.S. Naval Training Station, the site housed the Sampson College for returning GI Bill veterans from 1946 to 1949, and then later served as the Sampson Air Force Basic Military Training Center before being largely decommissioned in 1956. The site is now home to the New York State Veterans Cemetery – Finger Lakes, and is the resting place for Armed Forces veterans, their spouses, and their children. There are additionally 33 interred Purple Heart recipients and veterans connected to the historic Sampson Military Installations. Chairman of the Friends of the New York State Veterans Cemetery—Finger Lakes, Michael F. Nozzolio, NY State Senator, ret. said, “The Friends of the New York State Veterans Cemetery—Finger Lakes are extremely grateful and pleased our United States Senator Chuck Schumer will support and advocate for funds to enhance the permanent resting place that honors all our Nation’s veterans. Senator Schumer’s advocacy in the United States Senate is critically important for the approval of the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services grant request that will make the first New York State Veterans Cemetery safer, more secure, and create easier access for senior citizens and the disabled, providing many more the opportunity to honor the veterans of our United States Armed Forces.” The current entrance is functionally obsolete and no longer provides safe, secure, or accessible access for visitors. Schumer today announced his push for $3 million in federal funding in the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill to create a safer and more accessible gateway. The new proposed entrance will have improved lighting and signage to boost public safety and protect a significant asset for New York State through secure, well-defined infrastructure. Schumer explained that most of the cemetery’s visitors, including surviving spouses and siblings, are predominantly older adults who often have mobility limitations. The senator explained that the proposed upgrades are necessary to safely serve this population and give our veterans the resting place they deserve. In addition to the $3 million, Schumer also today announced he is pushing the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Cemetery Administration to approve New York State’s applications for two Veterans Cemetery grants, which together would provide over $2 million in additional federal support for cemetery expansion, infrastructure improvements, and headstone maintenance. The Cemetery is now eligible to apply for and receive these VA grants thanks to efforts by Schumer and state and local leaders in 2023, when Schumer helped deliver $3.9 million in federal funding needed to finally establish the New York State Veterans Cemetery – Finger Lakes as New York State’s first-ever veterans cemetery. The cemetery is thus eligible to pursue future federal VA grants as one of the 120 VA-designated state and tribal veteran cemeteries that may be financially supported through the Federal VA Veterans Cemetery Grants Program. The proposed grants will support the construction of 300 additional burial crypts, expanding the Cemetery’s long-term capacity and allowing more veterans and eligible family members to be laid to rest in a place dedicated to honoring their service. This expanded capacity will also provide more Gold Star Families and loved ones with a permanent place to gather, reflect, and pay tribute. Additionally, the project will upgrade stormwater infrastructure, construct new fencing and update signage to improve navigation, and enhance the experience of families visiting to honor loved ones. Funding will also be used to preserve the cemetery’s appearance and integrity by raising, realigning, cleaning, and rehabilitating headstones. Maintaining these sacred grounds is essential to ensuring every veteran is remembered in a setting that reflects the dignity of their service. Together, these grants will expand the Cemetery’s capacity while ensuring it remains a lasting tribute to those who served our nation. In addition to the NYS Veteran Cemetery at the former Sampson military base, Schumer also secured a total of $46 million from 2016-2019 to construct and establish the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Western New York Veterans Cemetery in Genesee County, New York in 2020, bringing a much-needed veterans cemetery to Western New York to serve the 80,000 WNY veterans who then lacked a veterans cemetery within 100 miles of their home. ###",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-presses-usda-to-help-western-new-york-grape-farmers-after-concord-grape-contracts-were-canceled-urges-grape-juice-purchase-for-food-assistance-programs,"SCHUMER PRESSES USDA TO HELP WESTERN NEW YORK GRAPE FARMERS AFTER CONCORD GRAPE CONTRACTS WERE CANCELED, URGES GRAPE JUICE PURCHASE FOR FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS",2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Lake Erie Region Is Largest Grape Growing Area East Of Rocky Mountains – Supporting 2,000 Jobs – But Earlier This Year Major NY Grape Processor Abruptly Canceled Contracts With Western NY Farmers Schumer Explains USDA Has Authority To Purchase Excess Grapes For Domestic Food Assistance Programs & Help Keep Upstate Concord Grape Farmers Growing Schumer To USDA: Buy Juice And Boost Growers! As Western New York grape farmers are facing growing uncertainty – after their contracts for this season were suddenly terminated – U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer stood at the Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Laboratory and called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to purchase concord grape juice for use by domestic nutrition programs across the country. Earlier this year, Refresco suddenly canceled contracts with approximately 126 farmers across New York and Pennsylvania after they had already invested in preparing their vineyards for this season, leaving local growers in a lurch. Schumer is pushing the USDA to help Western New York’s farmers, many of whom rely on contracts with Refresco, by purchasing some of this surplus product to ensure the continued success of Concord grape growers in New York. “Upstate New York is known for the top-notch quality of our Concord grapes, which are made into everything from juices to jellies and are an important part of our state’s agricultural economy. But earlier this year, on top of skyrocketing costs, many Western New York farmers had their Concord grape contracts cancelled by Refresco, leaving growers in a lurch and without the certainty they rely on to know they’ll have a market for their harvest,” said Senator Schumer. “That’s why I’m calling on the USDA to buy Concord grape juice for domestic nutrition programs and boost our growers because when the farmers who feed our families need help from forces beyond their control, we need to act. I’ve worked with USDA on surplus grape purchases before, and I’m urging the USDA to again provide certainty to Upstate farmers, put American-grown grapes to good use, and strengthen the domestic food supply chain we all depend on. It’s a win-win-win.” Chautauqua County is the leading grape-producing county in the state and the largest grape-growing county in the country outside of California. Every year, about 800 growers produce 150,000 tons or more of grapes on more than 22,000 acres on the Lake Erie Plain across northern Pennsylvania and Western New York. Products like juices and jellies that come from Concord grapes are processed locally and sold across the world. The Cornell Cooperative Extension estimates that the Lake Erie Grape Belt region supports about 2,000 jobs, contributes upwards of $300 million in economic impact, and supports a fruit and vegetable processing industry that employs over 5,000 workers. “Our grape growers are an important part of Chautauqua County’s agricultural heritage and local economy, and we appreciate our federal partners, including Senator Schumer, for recognizing the challenges facing our growers and working to support them,” said Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel. “The grape industry supports thousands of jobs and contributes significantly to our regional economy, making it important that we continue to work together to ensure our growers have the resources and support they need to remain successful. We are grateful for the continued advocacy and partnership of our federal representatives as we work to strengthen and protect the future of the grape industry throughout the Lake Erie Grape Belt.” ""We are grateful to Senator Schumer for stepping up for our growers during this unprecedented crisis,” said New York Wine and Grape Foundation Executive Director Sam Filler. “The immediate relief a Section 32 purchase would provide is essential—but we also recognize that the Concord grape industry needs a long-term strategic roadmap to build resilience. That's why we're excited about the potential for Specialty Crop Block Grant funding that we expect to be announced this Fall to support comprehensive industry planning. Together, these investments—emergency relief now, plus strategic planning for tomorrow—give us the real opportunity to turn this crisis into a catalyst for innovation and sustainable growth in the Lake Erie Grape Belt."" “New York Farm Bureau appreciates Senator Chuck Schumer’s support of New York grape growers in the Lake Erie region, who suffered the abrupt loss of market earlier this year due to Refresco’s cancellation of contracts. This loss of market has already posed a substantial economic risk to growers. If USDA were to purchase these grapes through Section 32 funds, it would not only provide immediate relief to New York grape growers, but it would also allow grapes to be included in the school lunch program. With harvest season quickly approaching, the time is now to help our New York grape growers,” said David Fisher, President of the New York Farm Bureau. “For 150 years, the western New York grape industry has grown in good economic times and endured through challenging times because of the strong partnership between the western New York family farmers, university research and extension personnel, and local, state, and federal legislatures. Currently, global grape over-production is depressing our local market and this is when the industry-university-government relationship is needed most. We are appreciative of the support from Senator Schumer for programs to purchase surplus juice for domestic programs and to support innovative research through the Specialty Crop Research Initiative are critical for the industry to thrive and grow into the future,” said Dr. Terry Bates, Director of Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Lab and Cornell AgriTech “Our growers have faced real headwinds these past few seasons, and this kind of federal support makes a tangible difference. Across Chautauqua County and the local region, 126 farms across 2,500 acres of Concord grapes were affected by the sudden loss of a processor contract, putting these farms and businesses at serious risk. We’re grateful to Senator Schumer for recognizing the importance of the Concord grape industry to Chautauqua County and for pushing the USDA to act,” said Robert Patterson, Jr., President, Chautauqua County Farm Bureau and Westfield Maid Cooperative. “As the owner of multiple agr-businesses, I am experiencing the economic ripple-effects of canceled grape contracts by multiple processors. My vineyard operation will have in excess of 600 tons of grapes with no home this fall, and my equipment dealership is suffering as a result of numerous customers facing steep financial losses due to canceled grape contracts. Rising input costs in 2026 due to a trade war and an apparently endless Iranian war have made for very difficult times in the Agricultural sector. Senator Schumer’s efforts working in conjunction with the USDA to assist with the current oversupply issue is greatly appreciated and prove that some lawmakers still care about our nation's food supply and the well-being of those who produce those products,” said Chad Schofield, owner of Schofield Farms LLC, Westfield Ag and Turf, Affinity Agriculture LLC, and Repurposed Organics, LLC. Western New York’s grape industry is an economic anchor for the state’s agricultural industry, as Lake Erie’s shallow depth extends the growing season by moderating temperatures as it keeps air moving when grapes are at risk for frost. The region extends far beyond Chautauqua County. Niagara County is home to the Niagara Escarpment American Viticultural Area, which contains nearly 60 farms across more than 1,000 acres of vineyard. The Niagara grape was created in Niagara County by cross-breeding Concord and Cassady grapes and is now a staple for making white grape juice. In March, Refresco, a major processor for many New York grape farmers, canceled all of its contracts with grape growers. Refresco bought from 126 grape growers across New York and Pennsylvania in the Lake Erie region. Since then, New York’s grape growers have been struggling in the face of an uncertain future. Schumer explained in a letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins that purchasing grapes for use by domestic nutrition programs will alleviate stress for Concord grape growers in Western New York who now do not have a buyer for their crops. Section 32 funds are authorized by Section 32 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1933 and used by USDA to purchase agricultural products, which are in turn used for nutrition programs such as the school lunch program. These “bonus buys” have been used by USDA in the past to stabilize agricultural markets, support communities, and deliver nutritious food to those who need it most. In fact, earlier this year, Schumer fought to secure exactly such a purchase by USDA to stabilize prices for New York grape farmers. Section 32 has also been deployed successfully for Concord grapes in 2006, 2007, 2009, 2014, 2017, and 2024. Schumer explained farmers are also facing rising costs across the board. A recent report from New York State showed the state’s farmers faced increased expenses of $20,000 annually. According to a recent report from the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee – Minority, the average farmer spent as much as $1,500 more to refill their farm’s on-site fuel tank compared to the same high point during the 2025 planting season. In New York, it cost $1,494 more to fill up a typical farm fuel tank, $199 more to fill up a typical grain truck, and $243 more to fill up a typical tractor compared to last year. The New York Farm Bureau revealed fertilizer prices have skyrocketed since last year, from approximately $400 a ton to $580 a ton, a more than 40% increase, with anhydrous ammonia now over $1,000 a ton. Farmers across the country have reported delaying or even forgoing fertilizer purchases due to cost spikes, leading them to plant fewer acres and risk future profits. ###",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-pushes-for-62-million-in-fed-funding-for-alfred-state-college-proposal-to-train-next-generation-of-healthcare-workers-and-strengthen-western-new-york-healthcare-systems,SCHUMER PUSHES FOR $6.2 MILLION IN FED FUNDING FOR ALFRED STATE COLLEGE PROPOSAL TO TRAIN NEXT GENERATION OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS AND STRENGTHEN WESTERN NEW YORK HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS,2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Says Effort Will Strengthen Regional Healthcare Ecosystem, Meet Growing Demand For Healthcare Workers, And Support Good-Paying Jobs Across Allegany, Steuben & Livingston Counties Alfred State Partners With Jones Memorial, St. James, And Noyes Memorial Hospitals To Provide Hands-On Training And Help More Students Advance In Healthcare Careers Schumer: Federal Funding Will Help Strengthen Rural Healthcare And Expand Access To Skilled Professionals Across Upstate NY U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today visited Alfred State College to launch a push in support of the college's new proposal to strengthen the regional healthcare workforce. Schumer called on the U.S. Department of Labor to deliver $6,197,191 in federal funding to expand healthcare education and training, strengthen career pathways to good-paying jobs, and prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals to address critical staffing shortages in rural communities across Upstate New York, including Allegany, Steuben, and Livingston counties. “From the classroom to the clinic, this innovative healthcare program will strengthen the regional healthcare system and help address critical staffing shortages,” said Senator Schumer. “At a time when rural healthcare systems across Upstate New York are facing significant pressures, from cuts to critical programs and federal policies creating even greater uncertainty, it is vital that we invest in preparing a pipeline of the next generation of healthcare workers. I’m proud to support Alfred State College’s proposal, in partnership with hospitals and healthcare facilities from across the region, to prepare over 500 people for healthcare careers in Western New York.” Last month, Schumer explained in a letter to Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling that the college’s proposal, titled “Curriculum to Career: Expanding the Healthcare Workforce in Rural Western New York,” would directly address workforce shortages in nursing, radiology, healthcare management, and more. The effort will create new pathways to healthcare education and good-paying jobs while also addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals. By expanding clinical placements, paid internships, on-the-job training, healthcare program enrollment, and stackable credentials, the project will help more students move from the classroom into the healthcare workforce. Alfred State College projects the initiative will help 543 participants start an accredited training and/or degree-seeking education. The effort comes as rural healthcare systems and communities across Upstate New York face significant pressures, from cuts to critical programs to policies creating greater uncertainty. A 2025 report examining healthcare professional shortages in 16 rural New York counties identified major healthcare gaps—including practitioners, providers, and physical facilities—in rural counties such as Allegany, Steuben, Cattaraugus, and Wyoming. ""We are deeply grateful to Senator Schumer for his steadfast leadership and unwavering advocacy for Alfred State College and rural Western New York. Welcoming him alongside our vital regional partners at Jones Memorial, St. James, and Noyes Hospitals underscores our shared commitment to solving the healthcare workforce shortage in Allegany, Steuben, and Livingston counties. With the $6.2 million support from the WORC Grant, our Curriculum to Career initiative will allow us to expand clinical placements, launch hands-on training and microcredentials, and prepare the next generation of essential healthcare professionals right here in our community,” said Dr. Steven A. Mauro, President of Alfred State College. “Developing a workforce pipeline and providing career development through education are key business and recruitment/retention focus areas for Noyes Health. This grant, and the partnership with Alfred State will significantly enhance our ability to attract, retain, and grow talent in our region to develop the healthcare workforce of the next generation. We greatly appreciate the leadership at Alfred State and Senator Schumer’s support in this coming to fruition,” said J. Chad Teeters, MD, MBA, MS, FACC, President/CEO, UR Medicine - Noyes Health. “St. James Hospital is incredibly thankful for Senator Schumer's dedication to addressing the unique challenges faced by rural healthcare providers. His leadership in advocating for workforce training grants will have a profound and lasting impact, allowing us to expand access to quality care, improve health outcomes, and create sustainable career pathways for individuals in our rural areas. Support of workforce investment grants is a testament to his commitment to the well-being of all constituents and our community,” said Wendy Disbrow, MBA, RN, President and CEO of St. James Hospital. “The years following the pandemic taught us that we cannot solve gaps in the rural workforce by working in silos. It takes a joint effort by employers and educators along with resource support. The Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) initiative is vital for institutions like ours. It will allow us to fill the skilled healthcare labor gaps, leveraging the local rural workforce and in turn strengthening economic development,” said James Helms, FACHE, FHFMA, CPA, President / CEO of Jones Memorial Hospital. Schumer explained that the proposal will help build a stronger healthcare pipeline by giving students and current healthcare workers more opportunities to gain the skills and experience needed by local employers. Alfred State College will work with three regionally significant healthcare partners: Jones Memorial Hospital in Wellsville, St. James Hospital in Hornell, and Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville. The initiative will provide on-the-job training for healthcare workers, expand the number of clinical placements, and provide paid summer internships for students enrolled in healthcare majors. These hands-on opportunities will help students and workers gain valuable experience while giving local healthcare providers a stronger and sustained pipeline of skilled talent. It will also increase enrollment in healthcare programs at Alfred State College among both traditional students and adult learners. In 2025, the incoming class at Alfred State College reached 1,493 full-time new students on census date, the largest group since 2010, for a total enrollment of 3,758, with most degree-seeking undergraduate students being in-state students from across New York. Schumer previously delivered federal investment to support successful industry-based workforce training programs at Alfred State. In 2021, Schumer announced $1.4 million in federal funding to meet training needs like specialized welding skills for two major industrial employers in the region and support nearly 200 new jobs. Schumer explained that two of the counties—Allegany and Steuben—in the project area are part of the federally designated Appalachian region and have faced high levels of poverty, low job growth, and health disparities. Workforce Opportunity and Innovation Act (WORC) grants, through the U.S. Department of Labor, in partnership with the Appalachian Regional Commission, allow recipients to help their communities diversify their local economies by developing a skilled workforce and providing equitable access to marginalized communities. Schumer’s letter to Acting Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling can be found HERE or below: Dear Acting Secretary Sonderling, I am pleased to write in support of the application submitted by Alfred State College of Technology to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) Initiative. SUNY Alfred’s proposal, “Curriculum to Career: Expanding the Healthcare Workforce in Rural Western New York,” will directly addresses workforce shortages in nursing, radiology, and healthcare management that impair the quality of healthcare received by rural residents. As Western New York’s leading technical college, Alfred State is uniquely positioned to continue helping grow the region’s workforce. This collaborative effort between Alfred State College, local hospitals, and workforce development agencies will result in an increased and improved pipeline of healthcare workers across New York’s Appalachian Region. Alfred State will provide summer internships for students enrolled in healthcare majors, provide an increased number of clinical placements, and implement stackable degree pathways through micro-credential and certificate programs. The proposal will also serve current healthcare workers by providing on-the-job training, flexible course delivery, and tuition support to allow providers the opportunity to develop additional skills while working. Quality healthcare is the bedrock for a healthy community, especially in rural areas. The Southern Tier, at the northern tip of Appalachia, continues to be one of the most economically distressed areas of the Northeast. This project offers an opportunity to reverse this trend by building on SUNY Alfred’s existing technical curriculum. I applaud Alfred State College of Technology for its foresight, and sincerely hope their application is met with your approval. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact me or my Grants Director at grants@schumer.senate.gov. Thank you for your consideration. ###",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-calls-for-hearings-demands-answers-on-troop-neglect-on-uss-abraham-lincoln/,"Gillibrand Calls For Hearings, Demands Answers On Troop Neglect On USS Abraham Lincoln",2026-08-15,2026,2026-08,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 (D-NY), member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, issued the following statement in response to multiple public reports detailing dismal conditions for sailors on the USS Abraham Lincoln from service members’ families and the administration’s callous, despicable response to the plight of America’s heroes: “There must be accountability for the reported deteriorating conditions endured by our service members serving in a reckless war started with no justification, no strategy, and no end in sight,” said Senator Gillibrand. “As our families pay sky-high prices back at home, our service members and their families are making immense sacrifices, and this administration owes them better than open disrespect. That this administration can enrich itself and spend endless taxpayer dollars on unlimited bombs and interior decorating, but cannot take care of our service members or the American people, is completely unacceptable. I demand hearings, accountability, and a clear plan to protect our service members and prioritize American families.” ###",1,2026-08-16T05:26:31Z,2026-08-16T05:27:49Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/following-his-push-schumer-announces-national-park-service-releases-operating-funds-to-buffalos-theodore-roosevelt-inaugural-national-historic-site,"FOLLOWING HIS PUSH, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES NATIONAL PARK SERVICE RELEASES OPERATING FUNDS TO BUFFALO’S THEODORE ROOSEVELT INAUGURAL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE",2026-08-13,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Called On NPS To Release Congressionally-Approved Funds When Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site Was The Last Site To Receive Annual Operating Budget Following his push, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today released a statement announcing that the National Park Service (NPS) has released this year's annual federal funds for Buffalo’s Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site. Schumer said this funding is vital so the site can cover its bills, pay staff, and ensure the public can continue to access one of Western New York’s treasured historical sites. “The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site holds a special place in the hearts of Buffalonians. That’s why, when I found out it was the only unit in the entire National Park System that had not received its funding, I called on the NPS to release it immediately. Today, I’m proud to announce that the NPS heeded my call and has released the funding,” said Senator Schumer. “As the home of the place where President Roosevelt took the oath of office to become our 26th president, and where President McKinley tragically died, Buffalo plays a critical role in the story of a presidency that reshaped the country. As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday this year, I will keep fighting to ensure New York’s rich history is accessible to the public for generations to come.” Earlier this month, Schumer called on the NPS to release the site’s funds without further delay and asked why this site was the only NPS site without its annual federal funding and what the NPS will do to ensure a delay like this never happens again. ###",1,2026-08-14T06:13:05Z,2026-08-14T06:14:08Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-53-million-in-federal-funding-for-upstate-new-york-airports,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE $5.3 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR UPSTATE NEW YORK AIRPORTS",2026-08-13,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Announcement Includes Fed $$ From FAA’s Airport Improvement Program Which Senators Boosted In Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law And FAA Reauthorization Law Schumer, Gillibrand: Fed $$ Helping Upstate NY Reach New Heights! U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced they are delivering $5,367,282 in new federal funding to upgrade airport facilities and equipment at Upstate New York airports. This federal funding was awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP). These grants will fund infrastructure projects, including ones that enhance airfield safety and modernize and upgrade taxiways. “Keeping our airports in top-notch shape is crucial to attracting business and tourism to Upstate New York. I’m proud to deliver more than $5 million in federal funding to help our airports, from Niagara Falls to Ticonderoga, invest in key safety upgrades and modernization efforts,” said Senator Schumer. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Law is continuing to help improvements at New York’s airports take off. I’ll always continue to fight to deliver federal resources to help our local economies reach new heights.” “From big cities to rural communities, it is vital that New York’s airports have the resources they need to provide a safe and comfortable experience for all,” said Senator Gillibrand, ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee. “I’m proud to deliver over $5 million in federal grants to upgrade and modernize facilities in Upstate New York, and I’ll keep fighting to bring home the funding that our airports need to offer first-rate service, operate efficiently, and ensure passenger safety.” A breakdown of awards can be found below: ###",1,2026-08-14T06:13:05Z,2026-08-14T06:14:08Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-riley-announce-65-million-for-ithaca-tompkins-international-airport-to-build-new-snow-removal-equipment-facility,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, RILEY ANNOUNCE $6.5 MILLION FOR ITHACA TOMPKINS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO BUILD NEW SNOW REMOVAL EQUIPMENT FACILITY",2026-08-13,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Lawmakers Explain That, As We Prepare For Winter, It Is Important To Ensure Our Airports Have Infrastructure Needed To Keep Passengers And Equipment Safe Schumer Has Long History Of Delivering For Ithaca Tompkins International Airport, Providing Critical Fed Funding For Key Infrastructure Upgrades Including New Boarding Bridge, Snow Removal, Emergency Vehicles, High-Tech Baggage Screening System, And More Schumer: The Sky Is The Limit For Ithaca! U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Congressman Josh Riley today announced $6.5 million in federal funding for Ithaca Tompkins International Airport. Awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which Schumer boosted in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, this federal investment will help the airport construct a new, 23,443-square-foot snow removal equipment facility to bring the airport up to current standards. “This $6.5+ million will help Ithaca Tompkins International Airport make much-needed upgrades to ensure safety in the winter by building a new snow removal equipment facility,” said Senator Schumer. “I fought hard to secure funding for airport improvement projects in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law because I know how crucial it is to ensure the safety of our airports. As we prepare for winter, it is more important than ever to ensure our infrastructure can keep up with the needs of Ithacans, students, business leaders, and other travelers coming to and from Tompkins County. The sky is the limit for Ithaca!” “From big cities to rural communities, it is vital that New York’s airports have the resources they need to provide a safe and comfortable experience for all,” said Senator Gillibrand, ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee. “I’m proud to deliver over $6.5 million in federal funding to build a new snow removal equipment facility at Ithaca Tompkins International Airport, and I’ll keep fighting to bring home the dollars that our airports need to offer first-rate service, operate efficiently, and ensure passenger safety.” “Upstate New Yorkers know winter doesn’t wait, and neither can the crews keeping our runways clear and passengers safe,” said Congressman Josh Riley. “The $6.5 million investment will help keep Ithaca Tompkins International Airport open and our region connected year-round. Safe, reliable air service is critical to growing our local economy. I’m proud to work with Senators Schumer and Gillibrand to bring those federal dollars back home to Tompkins County.” The lawmakers explained this federal funding will fund Phase 4 of the airport’s project to build a new snow equipment removal facility, which consists of building a foundation, structural elements, and the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. In FY2024, the Senators secured $1.5 million toward the construction of new emergency services facilities at Ithaca Tompkins International Airport. Schumer has long played a critical role in securing federal funding for key infrastructure upgrades, critical equipment, air service improvements, and passenger safety at Ithaca Tompkins International Airport. Previously, he successfully fought to secure millions of dollars in federal funding from the Department of Transportation for various projects at the airport including a new boarding bridge to accommodate the increased patronage of the airport, acquiring snow removal and emergency vehicles, and securing critical Small Community Air Service Development Program (SCASDP) funding to aid in the airport’s ability to market and promote new service options, ensuring their success. Senator Schumer also played a leading role in securing a new high-technology baggage screening system from the TSA that replaced the previously used manual bag-check system. Schumer visited Ithaca Tompkins Regional in February 2019 and called then-FAA Acting Administrator Daniel Elwell to fight for just under $10 million in critical FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funding. As part of the Schumer-negotiated CARES Act, Schumer secured over $1.7 million for the airport, which was hit hard during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, when United Airlines reduced services at ITH, he urged United to maintain current service levels to ITH, resulting in a reinstatement of routes post-pandemic, culminating in the successful push for a third daily flight to the D.C. metro area in 2025. ###",1,2026-08-15T05:23:20Z,2026-08-15T05:24:50Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-urges-army-to-select-fort-drum-for-next-generation-nuclear-power-program-to-strengthen-energy-resilience-at-domestic-military-installations,SCHUMER URGES ARMY TO SELECT FORT DRUM FOR NEXT-GENERATION NUCLEAR POWER PROGRAM TO STRENGTHEN ENERGY RESILIENCE AT DOMESTIC MILITARY INSTALLATIONS,2026-08-12,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Last Year, Fort Drum Was Among Nine Sites Shortlisted For Army’s Next-Generation Nuclear Microreactor Program To Protect Domestic Military Bases From Grid Failures, Critical Energy Deficiencies, And Other Threats Fort Drum’s Strategic Mission Sets, Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield, Skilled Personnel, And Existing Infrastructure Make It The Best-In-Class To Demonstrate Safe And Secure, On-Site Nuclear Power Generation Schumer To Army: Fort Drum Needs Reliable Power To Protect National Security After the U.S. Army named Fort Drum as one of nine domestic Army installations under consideration to host the Janus Program, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today urged U.S. Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll to select Fort Drum for the Army’s effort to deploy a commercial nuclear microreactor to strengthen the installation’s energy resilience and support critical military operations. Schumer explained that the effort is to ensure military sites have secure, reliable power if the commercial power grid goes down and that after analyzing sites across the United States, including energy requirements and power infrastructure, that the Army shortlisted Fort Drum. “Fort Drum’s facilities, personnel, and infrastructure make it uniquely positioned to spearhead the Army’s Janus Program and demonstrate this important, innovative nuclear microreactor technology. Fort Drum is top-of-class to lead in advanced nuclear development. Bringing a safe and secure nuclear energy source to Fort Drum is a win-win for strengthening the base’s energy security and protecting our Army from vulnerabilities like grid failures,” said Senator Schumer. “As one of the most advanced and strategic military installations in the country, Fort Drum is ready, and the critical missions it carries out to protect our nation demand reliable, resilient, and independent onsite power generation.” The Department of the Army’s Janus Program is an initiative to deploy commercial nuclear microreactors on domestic military installations. The program will help strengthen the Army’s installation energy resilience, support future mission requirements, and advance next-generation nuclear energy. The program aims to have a working prototype operating on a domestic Army base by the end of 2028. Last year, the Army announced that nine military installations—including Fort Drum—were shortlisted for consideration to host a commercial nuclear microreactor under the Janus Program. Schumer explained that Fort Drum, home to Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield, which serves as the primary mobilization airfield for the 10th Mountain Division, is one of the most strategic military installations in the United States. A nuclear microreactor would provide Fort Drum with a reliable, independent, and continuous source of energy for mission-critical support functions, command and control elements, mobilization activities, and other vital capabilities, including during grid-level energy infrastructure outages and the disruption of key power supplies. Schumer added that Fort Drum’s location would allow the Army to assess a microreactor’s performance under harsh weather and other conditions needed to inform its efforts to integrate energy solutions into future operations. Schumer also explained Fort Drum currently uses over 60 megawatts of power, most of which is pulled from the local grid. Fort Drum is a vital economic and community anchor for the North Country, supporting thousands of military and civilian jobs. Schumer underscored that Fort Drum is well-equipped to demonstrate how nuclear power can reduce vulnerabilities and reinforce critical U.S. defense infrastructure. It is expected that the commercial microreactor would not require significant land use changes and would be designed to produce up to 20 megawatts (MW) of power to support installation operations. Fort Drum officials and the local community have conveyed support for the site’s selection for the Janus Program. Schumer’s letter to U.S. Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll can be found HERE or below: Dear Secretary Driscoll: Late last year, the U.S. Army announced a list of nine domestic military installations—including Fort Drum, New York—to be considered for the deployment of a commercial nuclear microreactor under the Army’s Janus Program. The Janus Program is a critical opportunity to strengthen the Total Army’s installation energy resilience through the deployment of next-generation nuclear energy and support future mission requirements consistent with the goals of the National Defense Strategy. I write to encourage you to select Fort Drum, given the installation’s distinct combination of operational need, personnel, and existing infrastructure that make it an optimal site to spearhead the Janus Program. Fort Drum is one of the most advanced and strategic military installations in the United States. Fort Drum has the facilities, personnel, and infrastructure needed to be the best-in-class site to field a nuclear microreactor. The garrison is home to Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield, which serves as the primary mobilization airfield for the 10th Mountain Division and is a strategic asset and power projection capability for the Joint Force. Moreover, Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division’s operational tempo and strategic importance make the installation the ideal candidate to demonstrate the need for secure, onsite power generation to support military installations and critical mission sets. As the Army continues to prepare for large-scale combat operations (LSCO) and conflicts in increasingly contested environments, where adversaries will target critical infrastructure, including the potential disruption of highly interconnected key power supplies and grid-level energy infrastructure, military installations must be capable of executing their mission even during prolonged outages and disruptions to the local grid. A nuclear microreactor would provide Fort Drum with a reliable, non-carbon polluting, independent, and continuous source of energy for mission-critical support functions, command and control elements, mobilization activities, and other vital capabilities during contingency operations. It would also allow the Army to validate the operational benefits of advanced nuclear energy while strengthening the resilience of one of its premier power projection platforms. Furthermore, serving as the home to the 10th Mountain Division—the most deployed conventional Army unit since 2001—Fort Drum has long been a leader in developing, testing, and proving the Army’s cold-weather and expeditionary capabilities, including hosting large-scale training exercises for multi-domain operations in harsh climate and austere environments that simulate conditions warfighters may encounter downrange. Fort Drum’s permissive training environment would allow the Army to assess a microreactor’s performance under realistic operational conditions, enhance the installation’s energy resilience by reducing grid dependency vulnerabilities and interdependencies, and strengthen the Army’s ability to maintain a high readiness posture, including by informing its efforts to integrate resilient energy solutions into future operations. For these reasons, I urge you to select Fort Drum to host a nuclear microreactor as part of the Army’s Janus Program. I appreciate the careful consideration you will give Fort Drum’s candidacy during the site selection process, and I am confident you will find that Fort Drum has the personnel, infrastructure, resources, and capacity consistent with the Army’s basing criteria under the Janus Program. ###",1,2026-08-14T06:13:05Z,2026-08-14T06:14:08Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-colleagues-reintroduce-bicameral-momnibus-act-to-end-americas-black-maternal-health-crisis/,"Gillibrand, Colleagues Reintroduce Bicameral Momnibus Act To End America’s Black Maternal Health Crisis",2026-08-11,2026,2026-08,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 (D-NY) joined a bicameral group of colleagues in reintroducing the landmark Momnibus Act, a comprehensive legislative package designed to end the nation’s maternal health crisis and directly confront the devastating disparities that continue to claim the lives of Black mothers at alarming rates. Senator Gillibrand leads the Moms Matter Act included in the package, which would increase investments in maternal mental health programs and expand this vital workforce to better support moms and pregnant women. “It is shameful that women in the United States are more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than in any of our peer countries,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Momnibus Act will invest in comprehensive research on risks disproportionately affecting Black mothers, fund community support, and strengthen federal programs aimed at assisting new mothers. I am proud to lead the Moms Matter Act included in this package, and I will continue fighting to ensure that every mother receives high-quality healthcare regardless of race or socioeconomic status.” For years, the United States has had the highest maternal mortality rate among high-income countries, with stark racial disparities. In 2024, Black women faced a pregnancy-related mortality ratio more than three times higher than White women—even though more than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. Senator Gillibrand has long championed efforts to address the maternal health crisis and eliminate racial disparities in maternal health outcomes, including through the Momnibus Act. She also introduced the Modernizing Obstetric Medicine Standards (MOMS) Act, which would promote standardized maternal safety best practices, and the Maternal CARE Act, which would support states in their work to end preventable morbidity and mortality in maternity care with two new grant programs. Additionally, her Into the Light for Maternal Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders Act, which passed into law in 2022, reauthorized grants to states for essential programs to screen and treat maternal mental health conditions and established the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline to provide 24/7 voice and text support services to pregnant women and their loved ones. In addition to Senator Gillibrand, the Momnibus Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Peter Welch (D-VT), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Tina Smith (D-MN), Edward Markey (D-MA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Patty Murray (D-WA), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT). U.S. Representatives Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14) and Alma S. Adams (D-NC-12), co-founder and co-chair of the Black Maternal Health Caucus, introduced companion legislation in the House. The Momnibus Act makes targeted, high-impact investments to address the drivers of the Black maternal health crisis, including social determinants of health, access to culturally congruent care, mental health assistance, community-based supports, and the effects of climate change and public health emergencies on Black mothers and babies. The Momnibus Act is composed of 14 bills that would: Invest in social determinants of health—including housing, transportation, and nutrition—to reduce preventable risks disproportionately affecting Black moms. Extend WIC eligibility during postpartum and breastfeeding periods. Fund community-based organizations trusted by Black families and rooted in the communities they serve. Increase maternal health care funding for veterans, including Black women veterans who face unique barriers. Grow and diversify the perinatal workforce to ensure Black mothers receive care from providers who understand their lived experiences. Improve maternal health data collection to identify and eliminate disparities. Expand maternal mental health and substance use disorder support, with attention to the needs of Black moms. Improve care for incarcerated mothers, who are disproportionately Black. Invest in digital tools to expand access to care in underserved communities. Promote innovative payment models that incentivize high-quality, culturally congruent care. Strengthen federal programs addressing maternal and infant health risks during public health emergencies. Support climate resilience initiatives for moms and babies, including Black families disproportionately exposed to environmental hazards. Invest in research to eliminate racial disparities and prevent maternal deaths. Promote maternal vaccinations to protect moms and infants. The text of the Momnibus Act is available here. ###",1,2026-08-12T06:18:38Z,2026-08-12T06:20:33Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-calls-on-usps-to-work-with-local-community-and-reopen-west-park-post-office,SCHUMER CALLS ON USPS TO WORK WITH LOCAL COMMUNITY AND REOPEN WEST PARK POST OFFICE,2026-08-11,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"West Park Post Office Has Served Ulster County Community For More Than 130 Years Until USPS Abruptly Announced Its Closure, Forcing Customers To Travel Five Miles Away To Highland To Collect Mail Instead Schumer Urges USPS To Restore Postal Operations So Residents And Small Businesses Can Easily Receive Medications, Checks & Bills, Packages, And Other Important Mail Schumer To USPS: West Park Deserves A Post Office In West Park After the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) announced its plan to close the West Park Post Office, and then officially closed the facility on July 24, impacting approximately 170 post office box holders, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer called on the USPS to immediately restore the post office and work with the community to avoid disruptions to reliable mail service. For years, Schumer has fought relentlessly to protect post offices across Upstate New York, demanding accountability from the U.S. Postal Service, ensuring rural residents have a voice in decisions that affect them, and defending the local institutions that keep small communities connected. “The West Park Post Office is more than a place where residents pick up mail and drop off packages; it’s the center of the community. The abrupt closure of this office, now forcing residents and small businesses to drive miles away to pick up medications, packages, and other important mail, is simply unacceptable,” said Senator Schumer. “Every day this post office remains closed is another day this community is without an essential asset it depends on. West Park deserves a post office in West Park, and that’s why I’m calling on the USPS to work with the community to reopen it immediately.” ""The West Park Post Office has been an important part of our hamlet for generations, providing essential services while serving as a place that connects neighbors and strengthens our community. On behalf of the Town of Esopus, I want to thank Senator Schumer for his continued support and for standing up for the residents of West Park and our entire community toward a solution that restores reliable postal service close to home,"" said Roscoe T. Pecora, Town Supervisor, Town of Esopus. Earlier this year, the USPS announced its plan to close the West Park Post Office, forcing approximately 170 post office box holders to travel five miles away to Highland to collect their mail. The West Park community has rallied against the closure of its gathering place, emphasizing that residents and small businesses depend on the post office for medications, checks, bills, packages, and more. The USPS has not provided any updates to the local community, including the details of a new lease or a timeline for the potential reopening. Schumer said the USPS must work with local stakeholders to restore this essential public service for the West Park community. Schumer’s letter to USPS Postmaster General David Steiner can be found HERE or below: Dear Postmaster General Steiner, I write with concern regarding the future of the West Park Post Office, located at 1740 US-9W, West Park, NY 12493. On July 24, 2026, the United States Postal Service (USPS) issued a temporary closure of the West Park Post Office, citing a loss of lease. Since then, USPS has provided no timeline or concrete plans to restore postal operations in West Park and to ensure that the community’s post office remains in West Park. I urge you to act swiftly and diligently to reinstate the post office in West Park, and to work transparently and collaboratively with community stakeholders in that process. While I appreciate that the Postal Service has provided alternative mail services for West Park residents at the neighboring Highland Post Office, this location is more than five miles away for many residents, postal workers, and small business owners. West Park is a rural community and any disruptions to mail operations pose serious challenges for many of the residents and small businesses who depend on the Postal Service in their daily lives and who will now have to drive to another town to pick up their medications, checks and bills, packages, and other important mail. Furthermore, in West Park, the post office is not just a place where residents pick up their mail and drop off their packages. The West Park Post Office is the heart and center of the town – it is the place where residents build close-knit connections with their neighbors and postal workers, and where they see West Park’s identity represented in a community space. The closure of West Park Post Office is a real detriment to the community and any further delays in reinstating the West Park Post Office are unacceptable. Therefore, I urge the Postal Service to immediately act to reinstate the West Park Post Office. Again, I also urge the Postal Service to transparently engage with West Park residents and establish a clear plan to restore the West Park Post Office as quickly as possible. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I look forward to your response. ###",1,2026-08-12T06:18:38Z,2026-08-12T06:20:33Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/four-years-after-schumers-landmark-chips-and-science-act-became-law-upstate-new-york-is-powering-americas-semiconductor-comeback,"FOUR YEARS AFTER SCHUMER’S LANDMARK CHIPS & SCIENCE ACT BECAME LAW, UPSTATE NEW YORK IS POWERING AMERICA’S SEMICONDUCTOR COMEBACK",2026-08-11,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law Has Delivered Hundreds Of Billions In New Investment To Bring Back American Manufacturing, Strengthen Supply Chains, & Create Good-Paying Jobs Upstate New York Is Building The Critical Technologies The World Needs—Ensuring The U.S. Leads The Future, Not China Schumer: Upstate NY Is Powering America’s Chip Comeback Four years after his landmark CHIPS & Science Act was signed into law, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer marked the anniversary by highlighting how Upstate New York communities that made America a manufacturing powerhouse throughout the nation’s history are now powering the nation’s semiconductor comeback, attracting billions of dollars of investment, and delivering tens of thousands of new, good-paying jobs across Upstate NY. From IBM in Endicott, which helped define the modern computing era, to General Electric in Schenectady and Syracuse, birthplace of some of America’s most important innovations, to Kodak in Rochester, which pioneered imaging technologies used around the globe, Upstate New York discovered, developed, and built technologies that transformed the world. Schumer said decades of disinvestment, offshoring, and the decline of major legacy manufacturers left too many communities in Upstate New York struggling to replace the family-supporting careers and opportunities that once defined them. As advanced manufacturing moved overseas, America became increasingly dependent on foreign supply chains for the semiconductors that power everything from smartphones and cars to defense technologies and artificial intelligence. Schumer said his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law was designed to change that by leveling the playing field and giving the communities that once powered the country’s industrial past a real chance to build America’s technological future. “For too long, America watched manufacturing move overseas, weakening our supply chains and leaving Upstate communities behind. That’s why I fought to pass my CHIPS & Science Act into Law with Upstate New York as my north star—because I knew the communities that powered America’s industrial past could be the ones to build its future,” said Senator Schumer. “Four years later, we are seeing the full promise of this law: rebuilding America’s semiconductor industry from the ground up, bringing manufacturing back, strengthening the critical supply chains we depend on, and creating pathways to tens of thousands of good-paying careers for the next generation of Upstate New Yorkers. We’re proving that America can once again make the technologies the world needs and lead the industries of the future—and outcompete China.” Schumer said he crafted the CHIPS & Science Law with Upstate New York as his north star because he believed the state had what America needed to lead the next generation of innovation: renowned research institutions, a deep legacy of advanced manufacturing, water and power infrastructure and sites primed for investment, world-class workers, and communities with generations of experience building the technologies that changed the world. Schumer said Upstate New York has the foundation the United States needs to win a global tech race that the country cannot afford to lose. Schumer said investments spurred by his CHIPS & Science Law are already ushering in an economic renaissance across Upstate New York. In four years, Schumer’s bipartisan legislation has delivered a significant resurgence in cutting-edge research, manufacturing, supply chain investment, and workforce development programs across Upstate New York. “By the end of the decade, it is estimated that one in four U.S.-made chips will be produced within 350 miles of Upstate New York’s Semiconductor Superhighway—more than any other region in the country,” said Schumer. “This will be a stunning manufacturing renaissance in a region that was in a long and seemingly intractable decline, bleeding its population and stymying its potential to contribute to America’s economic preeminence. When Carrier left Syracuse and moved operations to Singapore and China, taking away so many good-paying jobs, I was angry—I still am. But that’s when I knew we needed to stop pining wistfully about the ‘Glory Days’ of years past and make it my mission to rebuild our industrial base and reinvest in the communities that built America. Today, because of my CHIPS and Science Law, Upstate New York is beaming and boasting that the ‘Best is Yet to Come.’ Optimism, confidence, a growing population, home appreciation, and jobs-jobs-jobs. Having a chance to achieve this dream is what the CHIPS and Science Law is all about.” BRINGING AMERICAN MANUFACTURING BACK Schumer said his CHIPS & Science Law is delivering historic investments that are positioning Upstate New York at the center of America’s semiconductor comeback. In Central New York, Micron has broken ground and poured concrete for the first fab of its historic $100+ billion memory chip manufacturing complex, supported by a $6.1 billion CHIPS direct funding award combined with billions more in incentives through the federal semiconductor Investment Tax Credit. The project represents one of the largest private investments in American history and will create tens of thousands of jobs across the region. In the Capital Region, Schumer has secured more than $2 billion in federal CHIPS funding to support GlobalFoundries’ continued growth. Schumer also delivered $1 billion in federal CHIPS R&D funding, combined with an additional $1 billion investment from IBM, to support a next-generation quantum wafer fab at Albany NanoTech and strengthen Upstate New York’s role as a global leader in semiconductor research. Together, GlobalFoundries, IBM, and NY Creates anchor a world-class ecosystem in the Capital Region. These investments are ensuring that the most advanced chip technologies are designed, developed, and manufactured in America. By the end of the decade, it is estimated that one in four U.S.-made chips will be produced within 350 miles of Upstate New York—more than any other region in the country. Schumer said this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to further solidify Upstate New York’s prominence as a critical hub for the research, development, and manufacturing of these technologies. REBUILDING CRITICAL SUPPLY CHAINS Schumer said the resurgence of domestic manufacturing requires more than just chip factories but also materials, equipment, and other small businesses. Schumer said major investments are fueling new opportunities for other small and mid-sized manufacturers, contractors, and suppliers, helping build a stronger, more secure domestic supply chain. In Western New York, Edwards Vacuum is nearing completion of a first-of-its-kind $300+ million dry pump manufacturing facility, supported by $18 million in CHIPS funding, to produce vacuum technology used in manufacturing next-gen chips. In Central New York, TTM Technologies opened a new advanced printed circuit board manufacturing facility in Onondaga County, made possible by a $30 million federal investment Schumer delivered, which will create 400 good-paying jobs and strengthen domestic semiconductor and defense manufacturing supply chains. In the Southern Tier, Menlo Micro will invest $50 million to build a microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating 100 new jobs. In the North Country, Corning Incorporated finalized a $32 million agreement supporting a $315 million investment to increase production of specialized glass. Schumer also secured a federal Tech Hub designation created by his CHIPS & Science Law for the Syracuse-Rochester-Buffalo region to become a Semiconductor Superhighway, delivering $40 million in federal investment for workforce training, commercialization, and supply chain initiatives to support the chip industry’s buildout across Upstate New York. To date, $2.1 million has been awarded across the NY SMART I-Corridor helping hundreds of companies support growth in semiconductor supply chains. “The CHIPS and Science Act is giving Upstate New York the opportunity to do what no single community could accomplish alone. By working together with our partners across Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse, we are creating opportunities for local businesses to grow and for people to build good careers in the semiconductor industry. This work is delivering lasting economic change and advancing America’s innovation, security, and economic strength,” said Grant Loomis, President & CEO of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership. BUILDING THE FUTURE WORKFORCE From cleanrooms to classrooms, Schumer’s law has laid the foundation for a stronger workforce by investing in science-based research, institutions of higher education, and workforce programs that prepare people for good-paying technology, construction, and manufacturing jobs across Upstate New York. In July, Schumer announced the University of Rochester-led STELLAR Engine was selected for a $15 million award through the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)’s Regional Innovation Engines Program, created by the CHIPS & Science Law, to supercharge laser technologies' growth across the Rochester-Finger Lakes region. In March, Schumer also announced that Binghamton University-led New Energy New York (NENY) was selected as an awardee for the second phase of the NSF’s Regional Innovation Engines Program, bringing up to $45 million over the next 3 years for Binghamton’s groundbreaking battery hub. This investment builds on Schumer’s extensive legacy of delivering for Binghamton, including a prestigious Tech Hubs designation in 2023 and over $113 million in public investment in 2022, for the Southern Tier to become the next battery tech hub. Schumer said Upstate New York’s semiconductor superhighway and innovation ecosystem will only succeed by training the workers who will build, operate, and sustain these advanced facilities, including engineers, researchers, machinists, welders, electricians, plumbers, and more. In Central New York, according to UA Local 81 assessments, approximately 2,000 plumbers and steamfitters will be required on site daily during the five-year construction period of the Micron facility, demonstrating the unprecedented opportunity for growth the semiconductor boom is creating for Upstate New York’s building and construction trades. Furthermore, IBEW Local 43 recently invested $7 million to expand its training center and apprenticeship pipeline due to the skyrocketing demand for electricians spurred by Micron and other projects across the region. Upstate New Yorkers like Morghan White showcase how the investments fueled by the CHIPS & Science Law are creating new pathways to good-paying careers. After returning to Central New York, Morghan entered an apprenticeship through UA Local 81 and is building a career in the skilled trades. In Western New York, Anthony Cercone, a graduate of the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering program at Orleans/Niagara BOCES, recently began as a manufacturing engineer at Edwards Vacuum’s new facility. In the Southern Tier, Schumer has supported Ithaca Area Economic Development’s Tompkins Build industry-led pre-apprenticeship program, which connects residents with pathways into registered apprenticeships through partnerships with 10 participating unions. And, at Binghamton University, Schumer secured $1 million in federal funding for a state-of-the-art microelectronics packaging cleanroom that will help train more than 100 students each year for critical microelectronics and semiconductor manufacturing jobs. Together, these stories show the promise Schumer envisioned and delivered: bringing manufacturing back, strengthening critical supply chains, and creating pathways to good-paying jobs for thousands of Upstate New Yorkers. Four years after his bipartisan bill became law, the CHIPS & Science Law is giving Upstate New Yorkers an opportunity to once again build the technologies that will power America’s future—just as they have done for generations. ###",1,2026-08-26T05:33:32Z,2026-08-26T05:34:56Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-urges-fema-to-quickly-review-and-approve-fed-funding-for-the-town-of-hamden-to-cover-cost-of-major-repairs-to-roads-severely-damaged-by-tropical-storm-debby,SCHUMER URGES FEMA TO QUICKLY REVIEW & APPROVE FED FUNDING FOR THE TOWN OF HAMDEN TO COVER COST OF MAJOR REPAIRS TO ROADS SEVERELY DAMAGED BY TROPICAL STORM DEBBY,2026-08-10,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"In 2024, Tropical Storm Debby Devastated Communities Across The Southern Tier & Upstate New York, Schumer Says Federal Funding Will Help Town Address Debby’s Damage To Roads & Critical Infrastructure Schumer Previously Advocated For Federal Disaster Declarations To Help Delaware County And Protect Local Taxpayers In Communities Like Hamden From The Crushing Costs of Storm Recovery Schumer To FEMA: Help Hamden Rebuild And Weather The Storms Ahead Today, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer called on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to cut through the red tape and stop delays to help the Town of Hamden in Delaware County complete the recovery, repair, and mitigation efforts the town was forced to undertake following the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby. For nearly two years, the Town of Hamden has worked diligently with FEMA to advance its over $5,000,000 request for disaster assistance and mitigation funding. However, bureaucratic delays and staff turnover at FEMA have kept Hamden residents waiting for federal assistance to support critical repairs to their roads and mitigation efforts to protect the community from future flooding events. “The Town of Hamden has been on a long road to recovery. It’s time for FEMA to put the pedal to the metal and help this community get back on track after the damage and devastation caused by the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby,” said Senator Schumer. “FEMA must move quickly to review and approve the federal assistance Hamden needs to rebuild its roads and ensure its infrastructure is ready to weather the storms ahead. I’ll keep fighting to bring federal resources to Delaware County and shield local taxpayers from the crushing costs of storm recovery.” Schumer explained that because of flooding during the storm, the town saw severe damage along portions of Chamber Hollows Road, East Brook Road, and many other ditches and shoulders. Schumer said approving this funding would help keep the Town of Hamden and local taxpayers from shouldering the costs of repair projects that were necessary for protecting the town’s infrastructure and local properties. These projects will address storm damage and make several improvements to enhance long-term resiliency. Work will replace existing metal pipes with properly sized concrete box culverts, along with new headwalls and wingwalls to provide additional structural support, improve drainage capacity, and meet New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) requirements. The project will also stabilize a failing roadside embankment where erosion has caused the bank to slide away from the roadway through the installation of soil nails. Additionally, the Town will restore damaged roadside ditches and shoulders in areas impacted by flooding, improving drainage, protecting roadways, and reducing the risk of future storm damage. If approved at the proposed 75% federal cost-share, federal investment from FEMA will cover $5,032,655 of the project cost. Town of Hamden Supervisor Wayne Marshfield said, “The Town of Hamden is currently seeking vital financial assistance from FEMA in the amount of $5,032,655 for the August 2024 flooding disaster. With an annual Town of Hamden Highway Department budget of just over one million dollars, we do not have the finances to fund this without the critical FEMA funding. FEMA funding is crucial to us maintaining a safe and reliable infrastructure for our community.” Schumer has been a long-standing fighter for Delaware County’s efforts to combat flood damage and natural disasters. After major storms in 2006 and 2011, Schumer advocated for federal disaster declarations on behalf of flood-impacted communities, including Delaware County, that would provide federal funding to enable places like Hamden and other communities within the county to recover and rebuild. As a result, local governments and thousands of property owners were able to apply for disaster assistance following these storms. In the aftermath of the 2006 flooding, Schumer successfully secured approval from FEMA to bring in temporary housing units for displaced residents, including those in Delaware County. In 2008, Schumer secured $300,000 in the Fiscal Year 2008 Appropriations Bill funding for flood protection measures in the Village of Sidney, which included infrastructure repairs to village pump stations and flap gates. With communities like Delaware County in mind, he helped author the provision in the Federal Disaster Aid Bill in 2012 that provided $200 million in Economic Development Administration (EDA) funding to help fund key economic growth projects in counties hammered by natural disasters. Schumer then secured $3.8 million from that provision for the Delaware County IDA. This funding provided critical support to relocate Amphenol Aerospace, keeping them in the community and saving over 950 jobs. Schumer's efforts to secure disaster declarations unlocked the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (MPMG) fund, which brought nearly $7 million to local efforts to buy out over 100 flood-damaged properties in the Lower River Street neighborhood in Sidney for flood mitigation. In 2025, Schumer demanded FEMA immediately reverse its decision to cancel federal funding for the Sidney Culvert Project, critical for mitigating flooding in the Village of Sidney, helping save lives, and reducing the damage and costs from flooding caused by extreme weather events. A copy of Senator Schumer’s letter to FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton can be found HERE or below: Dear Administrator Hamilton, I write to urge the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to swiftly approve the Town of Hamden’s federal disaster reimbursements under Project Worksheets #796462, #811378, #811378, #811380, #811384, #811386, #811388 (DR-4825-NY). The Town of Hamden is awaiting final approval for over $5,000,000 in funding to repair and improve the resilience of Chamber Hollows Road, East Brook Road, and Oxbow Hollow Road, as well as ditches and shoulder areas that experienced significant damage due to flooding in 2024 from the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby. In August of 2024, the remnants of Tropical Strom Debby brought heavy rain and flooding to communities across New York’s Southern Tier, including the Town of Hamden in Delaware County. The Town began working with FEMA and New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (NYS DHSES) in 2024 to utilize federal funding to help pay for cleanup, repairs, and remediation from these flood event damages. It has worked diligently over the past two years to comply with multiple requests for information so that FEMA would approve and agree to reimburse the project costs of $5,032,655. These critical improvements will address storm damage and enhance long-term resiliency. Work will replace existing metal pipes with properly sized concrete box culverts, along with new headwalls and wingwalls to provide additional structural support, improve drainage capacity, and meet New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) requirements. The project will also stabilize a failing roadside embankment through the installation of soil nails. Additionally, the Town will restore damaged roadside ditches and shoulders impacted by flooding, improving drainage, protecting roadways, and reducing the risk of future storm damage. The annual Town of Hamden Highway Department budget is set at just over one million dollars, leaving the municipality without the finances to complete these critical repair and mitigation projects without FEMA assistance, putting their infrastructure, property, and community at risk. It will be two years this August since the flooding rains and storm took place. The community has been extremely patient in waiting for necessary repair work and the Town remains vulnerable to further damage should another storm occur before repairs are completed. Given the importance of these projects, I ask that you promptly review the applications and swiftly approve the projects to free up the necessary funding that will enable the Town of Hamden to fully recover from the destruction of Tropical Strom Debby and better prepare for the next storm. Thank you in advance for your consideration of this important request. I look forward to hearing from you. ###",1,2026-08-11T05:54:29Z,2026-08-11T05:56:25Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-cruz-hail-senate-passage-of-their-bill-to-speed-up-benefit-delivery-for-public-safety-officers/,"Gillibrand, Cruz Hail Senate Passage Of Their Bill To Speed Up Benefit Delivery For Public Safety Officers",2026-08-08,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) applauded the Senate’s unanimous passage of their bipartisan Officer John Barnes and Chief Michael Ansbro Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program Expansion Act, which would help first responders and their families receive their federal disability and death benefits quicker. Currently, it can take years for applicants to learn whether they qualify for payments. “This is a major win for our public safety officers, who put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Today, we are one step closer to fixing a slow and broken process that keeps first responders and their families in limbo for years on end, including those who risked and lost their lives on 9/11. It is time to bring them the relief they deserve. I am proud that the Senate has passed this bill, and I now urge the House to do the same.” “The Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program was created to ensure that our first responders receive the benefits they deserve and need. We owe it to our first responders and their families to ensure they receive timely and fair support, and I am grateful to have worked with Senator Gillibrand to advance this bill through the Senate. I urge my colleagues in the House to pass this legislation without delay,” said Senator Cruz. The Officer John Barnes and Chief Michael Ansbro Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program Expansion Act would amend the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s (BJA) Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) Program to improve processing times and reduce delays in benefit determinations. The PSOB Program provides death benefits to survivors of first responders who have died in the line of duty, as well as disability benefits to officers catastrophically injured in the line of duty. Specifically, the senators’ bill would: Require the BJA to complete a death or disability eligibility determination within 270 days of receiving a complete claim Require the BJA to use its subpoena authority if a public agency fails to provide requested documentation in relation to a claimant’s case Expedite processing for officers already certified for benefits through the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) or the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) Direct BJA to implement GAO recommendations to establish updated program processes and administrative procedures This legislation is endorsed by over 30 public safety officer organizations and unions, including: the Sergeants Benevolent Association of NYPD, National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), Fraternal Order of Police, FDNY EMS Local 2507 Uniformed EMTs Paramedics & Fire Inspectors Union, Firefighter’s Association of the State of New York, NYLEAP, Nassau County Superior Officers Association, Voices Center for Resilience, Town of Brighton Police Department, NYPD Captains Endowment Association, Port Authority Police Lieutenants Benevolent Association, Police Benevolent Association of the New York State Troopers, New York State Association of Chiefs of Police, Port Authority of NY & NJ Detectives Endowment Association, Peace Officers Research Association of California, Pittsford Volunteer Ambulance, Inc., United States Deputy Sheriff’s Association, California Association of Highway Patrolmen, Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York, Friends of Firefighters, Police Chiefs’ Association of Orange County, City of Syracuse New York Fire Department, Village of Tuckahoe Police, National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC), City of Utica Fire Department, Riverside Sheriffs’ Association, Major County Sheriffs of America, City of Syracuse Police Department, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, International Association of Chiefs of Police, American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), Austin Police Association, City of Utica Police Department, Orange County Sheriff’s Department, San Diego Police Officers Association, and Town of Hyde Park Police Department. ###",1,2026-08-09T05:47:57Z,2026-08-09T05:49:40Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-permanently-make-federal-services-language-accessible/,"Gillibrand, Colleagues Introduce Legislation To Permanently Make Federal Services Language Accessible",2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,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 (D-NY) joined a bicameral group of colleagues to introduce the Language Access for All Act, legislation to codify language access requirements for federal agencies and protect language access for the 25 million individuals in the United States with limited English proficiency. The legislation would prioritize customer service governance by reducing barriers to federal services and making sure federal agencies are equipped to meet diverse language needs. “Millions of New Yorkers rely on federal services to feed their children, obtain necessary medical care, or run their businesses,” said Senator Gillibrand. “As the Trump administration makes accessing these services more difficult for non-English speakers, the Language Access for All Act will ensure that every American can get the help they need, regardless of language barriers. I will continue fighting to hold our federal agencies accountable so that no New Yorker is shut out of the services they’re entitled to.” The Language Access for All Act is being introduced as services come under threat from the Trump Administration. In March 2025, President Trump signed Executive Order (EO) 14224 that declared English as the official language of the United States and revoked EO 13166, a 25-year-old mandate that required agencies to provide critical language access to individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP). The Trump administration’s Department of Justice issued new guidance that minimizes multilingual services and redirects resources towards English language assimilation. These policy changes threaten language access for the over 25 million people in the United States—eight percent of the U.S. population—with limited English proficiency. About 30% of New Yorkers, or 5.8 million people, speak a language other than English at home. Of them, around 2.5 million have LEP. Nearly 40% of Spanish speakers, who make up the majority of those who speak another language both in the United States and in New York State, report speaking English “less than very well” in the most recent U.S. Census. The Language Access for All Act of 2026 would modernize and strengthen the federal government’s language access services by formalizing EO 13166 and establishing a coordinated, accountable framework to ensure meaningful access to government services for individuals with limited English proficiency. Specifically, the legislation would: Requires federal agencies to ensure that individuals with LEP can meaningfully access the federally conducted programs and activities of the agency, including through translation and interpretation. Creates a public complaint system to track complaints regarding barriers to meaningful access at agencies. Requires agencies to develop and maintain language access plans consistent with EO 13166, with public notice and comment, and to submit plans to Congress and publish them on LEP.gov. Establishes language access technical standards that allow individuals with LEP to access agency content. This applies to all agency communications, including AI and automated language assistance services. Ensures AI-assisted language services do not replace qualified translators and interpreters, comply with federal privacy requirements, and are continuously tested for bias, discrimination, and errors. Creates an interagency language access working group to provide guidance, coordination, and technical assistance. Requires each agency to designate a language access coordinator to lead implementation and serve as a point of contact. Senator Gillibrand has long advocated for improving accessibility in language translation for non-native English speakers. In February 2023, she co-signed a letter to the Federal Communications Commission with Representative Grace Meng (D-NY-06) urging for more languages to be included in their emergency alerts, ensuring the safety of all regardless of language barriers. She also championed a $2 million investment in March 2023 from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to expand transportation services for commuters with limited English proficiency. In addition to Gillibrand, the legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Andy Kim (D-NJ) and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and was introduced in January 2026 in the House of Representatives by Representatives Judy Chu (D-CA-28), Grace Meng (D-NY-06), Juan Vargas (D-CA-52), and Dan Goldman (D-NY-10). Read the full text of the Language Access for All Act here. ###",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-calls-on-national-park-service-to-release-operating-funds-to-buffalos-theodore-roosevelt-inaugural-national-historic-site_the-only-national-park-site-that-has-not-yet-received-annual-operating-support,SCHUMER CALLS ON NATIONAL PARK SERVICE TO RELEASE OPERATING FUNDS TO BUFFALO’S THEODORE ROOSEVELT INAUGURAL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE – THE ONLY NATIONAL PARK SITE THAT HAS NOT YET RECEIVED ANNUAL...,2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site – Where Then-Vice President Theodore Roosevelt Took The Oath Of Office To Become America’s 26th President – Needs Annual Congressionally-Approved Funds to Pay Bills And Staff Schumer Says: As We Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday, We Must Ensure This Treasured Buffalo Historical Site Remains Accessible To The Public Schumer To NPS: Release Annual Funds For Vital Site For This Jewel Of American History Here In Western NY U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today called on the National Park Service (NPS) to release this year's funds for Buffalo’s Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site. The site, which is a National Historic Site, says it is the only unit in the entire National Park System that has not received its congressionally appropriated FY26 operating funds. With the end of the fiscal year quickly approaching at the end of September, the site’s leadership says it needs these funds to cover its bills, pay staff, and ensure the public can continue to access one of Western New York’s treasured historical sites. Schumer called on the NPS to immediately release the site’s funds and explain why this site has been the last left without funding this far into the fiscal year. “As a place of tragedy and the transition of presidential power, the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site holds a special place in the hearts of Buffalonians and the nation. As the place where the assassinated President McKinley tragically passed away, and President Roosevelt took the oath of office to become our 26th president, this home tells the story of the origins of a presidency that reshaped the country,” said Senator Schumer. “The site relies on federal funding to cover its bills and pay staff, but its leadership says it is the only unit in the entire National Park System that has not received its allocated federal funding. That makes no sense and is unacceptable. As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, it’s more important than ever to preserve our country’s rich history. That’s why I’m calling on the NPS to immediately release the congressionally appropriated support needed to keep this historic house’s doors open so Americans can continue to access one of New York’s, and the nation’s, treasured historical sites.” The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site is the house where, on September 14, 1901, Theodore Roosevelt took the oath of office following the assassination of President William McKinley, becoming the 26th President of the United States. Thanks to decades of local activism and preservation work, the house has been preserved for generations and now operates as a unit of the National Park System. The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site relies on Congressionally appropriated funds for approximately one-third of its operating budget. The delay of its allocated funds has postponed the completion of essential work, including replacement of a 16-year-old HVAC system and repairs to the building's historic Victorian roof. These upgrades are desperately needed to ensure the aging building’s integrity and to continue providing the optimal visitor and staff experience at the site. Schumer said the NPS must release the site’s funds without further delay and asked why this site is the only NPS site without its annual federal funding and what the NPS will do to ensure a delay like this never happens again. Schumer’s letter to Acting National Park Service Director Jessica Bowron can be found HERE or below: Dear Acting Director Bowron, I write to urge the immediate release of Fiscal Year 2026 operating funds to the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site in Buffalo, New York. According to Site Superintendent Spencer Morgan, this site is now the only unit in the entire National Park System that has not received its congressionally appropriated FY26 operating funds with the end of the fiscal year fast approaching. If the site does not receive these funds by the end of September, it risks being unable to cover its bills and meet payroll, threatening not only the continued operation of the site and employment of the staff, but also public access to one of New York’s, and the nation’s, treasured historical sites. As a place of tragedy and the transition of presidential power, the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site holds a special place in the hearts of Buffalonians, the nation, and Roosevelt history buffs alike. It is the house where, on September 14, 1901, Theodore Roosevelt took the oath of office following the tragic assassination of President William McKinley, becoming the 26th President of the United States. It stands today, preserved for generations since Roosevelt’s tenure, thanks to decades of local activism and preservation work. It now operates as a unit of the National Park System as a testament to a pivotal moment and person in our nation's history. This site is not only one of great historic significance, but it also provides meaningful, ongoing value to the Buffalo community. It attracts visitors from far and wide – boosting the local economy, offering free field trips for local students, and educating the public on the origins of a presidency that reshaped the country. The site relies on the National Park Service for roughly a third of its operating budget, and the prolonged delay in receiving its promised FY26 funds has delayed the completion of essential work, including replacement of a 16-year-old HVAC system and repairs to the building's historic Victorian roof. These upgrades are desperately needed to ensure the aging building’s integrity and to continue providing the optimal visitor and staff experience at the site. Reports suggest that National Park Service maintenance funds have been redirected to support America250 celebrations in Washington, D.C. While our nation’s semi-quincentennial is an important milestone to honor, it must not come at the expense of the continued maintenance, preservation, and operation of our many other historic sites and protected places across the country. In Buffalo, the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site cannot meet payroll or complete vital maintenance and preservation projects without its congressionally appropriated FY26 funds. I therefore urge the National Park Service to release the site's FY26 operating funds without further delay, and request that you provide my office with a clear timeline for disbursement. I would also appreciate an explanation of why this site, alone among all National Park Service units nationwide, has been left without its funding this far into the fiscal year, and what steps the agency is taking to ensure this does not happen again. The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site belongs to every American as a piece of our shared history. It deserves the timely support Congress has provided for it, especially as America celebrates our 250th anniversary. Thank you for your prompt attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to your response. ###",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-introduces-two-bills-to-support-accessible-housing-for-seniors-and-people-with-disabilities/,Gillibrand Introduces Two Bills To Support Accessible Housing For Seniors And People With Disabilities,2026-08-06,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"This week, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) introduced two bills to support accessible housing for seniors and people with disabilities. The Senior Accessible Housing Tax Credit Act would create a new tax credit for seniors to install essential modifications to their homes to help them age in place. The Visitable Inclusive Tax Credits for Accessible Living (VITAL) Act would expand the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program to support the construction of more affordable housing units with accessible features. “A safe, accessible place to live should be a right, not a privilege, for our seniors,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The VITAL Act would help ensure that affordable housing meets the mobility and accessibility needs of New York seniors and people with disabilities, allowing them to age comfortably in the communities of their choice. Additionally, the Senior Accessible Housing Tax Credit Act would help seniors age with dignity by assisting with the cost of home modifications related to mobility needs. As the top Democrat on the Senate Aging Committee, I am committed to doing everything I can to remove barriers to accessible housing, and I’m fighting hard for these bills to pass.” By 2060, an estimated one in every four Americans will be age 65 or older. Currently, about 44% of adults 65 and over have a disability. As people age, they need structurally and mechanically safe housing to accommodate their disabilities. However, as of 2011, less than 4% of our national housing supply was accessibly designed. The Senior Accessible Housing Tax Credit Act and the VITAL Act would help increase the amount of accessible housing available to American seniors and people with disabilities. The Senior Accessible Housing Tax Credit would create a nonrefundable tax credit for taxpayers aged 60 or older for expenses related to certain home modifications on their principal residence or a qualifying second home. The credit would be equal to the cost of eligible expenditures, such as wheelchair ramps, handrails, chair lifts, shower seats, and more, with an annual credit limitation of $10,000. Qualifying expenditures would also include certain labor costs related to the preparation, assembly, or installation of an eligible modification. U.S. Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) co-leads this legislation. The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) is a federal program providing tax credits to developers who build new housing for lower-income renters. The VITAL Act would add incentives for the LIHTC program to increase the number of accessible homes so that more people with disabilities and older adults can live in the communities they choose. It would also require that the states administering LIHTC ensure that at least 20% of their LIHTC units are accessible and/or walkable and rollable. U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) co-leads this legislation. ###",1,2026-08-07T06:11:19Z,2026-08-07T06:12:42Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-reintroduces-bill-to-make-politicians-answer-to-voters-not-billionaire-megadonors/,"Gillibrand Reintroduces Bill To Make Politicians Answer To Voters, Not Billionaire Megadonors",2026-08-06,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Gillibrand’s Bill Would Create First-Of-Its-Kind “Democracy Dollars” Voucher Program To Empower Voters To Donate To Candidates Of Their Choice, Ensuring That Campaigns Are Funded By Everyday Voters, Not Billionaires Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) introduced landmark legislation to empower everyday American voters to participate in the campaign finance system and to reduce the influence of big money in politics. Gillibrand’s Clean Elections Act would give every American citizen “Democracy Dollars” to donate to the federal candidates of their choice, so campaigns are funded by everyday voters rather than a handful of megadonors. “When billionaires and special interests buy our elections, it’s working families who pay the price — in higher costs at the grocery store, higher drug prices, and tax breaks that flow to the wealthy,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Political candidates should be answering to their constituents, not special interest groups and wealthy donors. My Clean Elections Act gives every American ‘Democracy Dollars’ to support the candidates of their choice, so winning elections means delivering lower costs and better lives for working families, not doing favors for wealthy megadonors.” Today, a tiny group of ultra-wealthy donors dominates how campaigns are funded. As of April 2024, over 65% of the roughly $8.6 billion raised for federal campaigns had come from PACs, with $2.6 billion coming from just 100 billionaire families throughout the 2024 election cycle. . Meanwhile, only about 1% of Americans contributed more than $200 to any federal campaign. The result is a system where candidates court a small circle of wealthy donors behind closed doors, while the voters they’re supposed to represent are drowned out. Gillibrand’s Clean Elections Act would help shift the balance of power back to everyday Americans by creating a “Democracy Dollars” voucher system. This system would provide every eligible U.S. citizen with $100 in “Democracy Dollars” for each federal election (House, Senate, and presidential, both primary and general, for a total of up to $600). Citizens could then donate these funds in $10 increments to candidates of their choice, making every voter a donor whose support candidates have to earn. The Clean Elections Act is endorsed by End Citizens United, Stand Up America, and Demos. “When Big Money floods our elections, politicians become more responsive and beholden to deep-pocketed donors instead of their constituents,” said End Citizens United Action Fund President Tiffany Muller. “Elections should be decided by the strength of candidates’ ideas and the trust they earn from voters, not by their ability to attract wealthy donors. Senator Gillibrand’s Clean Elections Act is a practical solution that would level the playing field by giving everyday Americans a greater voice in our elections. We’re grateful to Senator Gillibrand for leading this pragmatic and vital reform.” “For decades, big money in politics has drowned out the voices of everyday people in our democracy. Americans are fed up with the outsized influence of wealthy donors and want Congress to act,” said Brett Edkins, Managing Director of Policy and Political Affairs at Stand Up America. “The Clean Elections Act helps level the playing field by giving every registered voter democracy dollars to support the candidates of their choice, making every voter a more powerful participant in our elections. We applaud Senator Gillibrand for championing this bold reform and urge Congress to advance the Clean Elections Act.” The full text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-08-07T06:11:19Z,2026-08-07T06:12:42Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-stop-spread-of-spotted-lanternflies/,"Gillibrand, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill To Stop Spread Of Spotted Lanternflies",2026-08-05,2026,2026-08,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 (D-NY) joined a bipartisan group of her Senate colleagues to introduce the Spotted Lanternfly Research and Development Act to designate the spotted lanternfly, an invasive species that poses a significant threat to our nation’s agricultural economy, as a high-priority research initiative for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture. “The spotted lanternfly has proven to be a destructive pest that threatens New York State’s specialty crops, especially vineyards throughout Western New York, the Finger Lakes, Long Island and the Hudson Valley,” said Senator Gillibrand. “If not contained, this pest will have devastating economic consequences at a time when New York farmers are already having their profits destroyed by rising diesel and fertilizer costs. Congress must immediately prioritize spotted lanternfly research to prevent further spread.” Spotted lanternflies are harmful to specialty crops like grapes across New York State, especially in Western New York, the Finger Lakes, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley. As the species continues to spread, designating spotted lanternfly controls as a high-priority research initiative will help focus USDA scientific resources to combat the spread of this invasive pest. In 2025, researchers at Cornell University estimated that if left unchecked, the spotted lanternfly could cost New York’s grape industry over $14 million over the first three years of invasion. Joining Senator Gillibrand in introducing the bill were Senators John Fetterman (D-PA), Dave McCormick (R-PA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The full text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-08-06T07:37:31Z,2026-08-06T07:38:34Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-holds-virtual-press-conference-slamming-trump-administration-for-medicare-cuts-raising-drug-prices-for-seniors/,"Gillibrand Holds Virtual Press Conference Slamming Trump Administration For Medicare Cuts, Raising Drug Prices For Seniors",2026-08-05,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Trump Administration Decision Will Raise Premiums For As Many As 1.3 Million New Yorkers Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) held a virtual press conference to slam the Trump administration for its decision to end subsidies that lower prescription drug costs for Medicare recipients. “The Trump administration’s decision to end critical Medicare subsidies that help seniors afford life-saving medication is a betrayal of our values,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This administration has money for bombs abroad, but not for our seniors here at home. I’m urging President Trump to reverse these Medicare cuts now and instead take action to lower costs for American seniors.” In 2025, these subsidies lowered average premiums for seniors with Medicare Part D standalone prescription drug plans by 40% per month. By ending these subsidies, the Trump administration is raising costs for as many as 25 million Americans on Medicare, including up to 1.3 million New Yorkers. At a time when seniors are already struggling with rising prices for groceries, gas, and utilities, Senator Gillibrand urged the Trump administration to reverse its decision to end the subsidies and work with insurance plans to insulate seniors from dramatic premium increases in 2027. Senator Gillibrand continues to lead the fight to lower healthcare costs for seniors on Medicare. Earlier this year, she introduced the Medicare Cost Cap Act, which would cap out-of-pocket costs for Traditional Medicare (parts A and B) beneficiaries at $5,000 per year. She has also introduced legislation to strengthen Medicare’s ability to negotiate prescription drug prices and reduce out-of-pocket costs for seniors. Additionally, she champions the Capping Prescription Costs Act, which would extend the cap on annual out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries to people with private health insurance. ###",1,2026-08-06T07:37:31Z,2026-08-06T07:38:34Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-scott-press-fda-on-shortage-of-cancer-drugs/,"Gillibrand, Scott Press FDA On Shortage Of Cancer Drugs",2026-08-05,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Rick Scott (R-FL), ranking member and chairman of the Senate Aging Committee, pressed the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on what actions it is taking to alleviate the shortage of critical cancer medications. “We must do everything we can to make sure no cancer patient goes without life-saving chemotherapy drugs,” said Senator Gillibrand. “However, addressing this crisis cannot come at the expense of patient safety or a secure supply chain. Senator Scott and I are pressing the FDA to develop a plan to fix the drug shortage while also ensuring that imported drugs are up to American regulatory standards.” “When older Americans are battling cancer, a delay or shortage in treatment availability is a matter of life and death,” said Senator Scott. “I’m grateful for President Trump and his administration’s work to alleviate the supply strain on critical cancer-fighting medications, and I am committed to partnering with them to put safety and availability first. I am proud to join Ranking Member Gillibrand to ensure our seniors receive the best, on-time, treatment in their fight against this awful disease.” Currently, the United States is experiencing a national shortage of essential generic chemotherapy drugs, including ifosfamide, carboplatin, cisplatin, and oxaliplatin. According to the FDA, the shortages are the result of manufacturing problems, shipping delays, and decisions by some companies to stop producing the medications. If the drug shortage persists, doctors may be forced to ration their patients’ medications or even prioritize certain patients over others. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has reported that FDA is considering temporarily allowing the importation of medications from overseas manufacturers that do not typically supply American markets to help remedy the shortage. To ensure patient safety, Gillibrand and Scott requested a briefing from FDA to answer questions about how these imported drugs will be evaluated for quality, what foreign manufacturers are being considered, and what steps FDA is taking to prepare for future drug shortages. The full text of the senators’ letter to Acting FDA Commissioner Kyle Diamantas can be found here or below: Dear Acting Commissioner Diamantas, We write to express concern regarding the escalating national shortage of the critical oncology medications ifosfamide, carboplatin, cisplatin, and oxaliplatin highlighted in recent reporting. The prospect of widespread clinical rationing of frontline chemotherapy presents a crisis for patients, particularly older Americans who disproportionately rely on these medications. Some health systems are already reportedly receiving only a fraction of their standard supply, forcing clinicians to space out doses, prioritize certain patients over others, or ration medications to manage shrinking supplies. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has reported that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is actively working to alleviate these shortages and is considering temporarily allowing the importation of medications from overseas manufacturers that do not typically supply the United States market. Remedial action of this kind is not novel, as the FDA employed similar strategies in navigating the carboplatin and cisplatin shortage crisis in 2023, but it is essential to ensure the safety and efficacy of any medicine administered to an American patient. We appreciate the FDA utilizing its regulatory flexibility to inject supply into a strained system, but the temporary introduction of foreign pharmaceuticals raises potential safety concerns that demand transparency. To provide clarity to Congress and ensure patient safety, we respectfully request a briefing from the FDA by September 4, 2026, to answer the following questions: Which specific foreign manufacturers and facilities is the FDA currently evaluating, or has it authorized, for temporary importation of drugs in shortage? In which country are these manufacturers and facilities located? Have any of these manufacturers received a Form 483 or been classified as Official Action Indicated (OAI) or Voluntary Action Indicated (VAI), specifically with respect to the drugs in shortage? 2. What protocols, quality checks, and regulatory standards is the FDA applying to guarantee supplemental imports meet safety standards? 3. How will the FDA monitor imported chemotherapy drugs for contamination or subpotency once they are in the U.S. market? 4. How will shortage staff work with the Office of Inspections and Investigations (OII) and relevant quality staff within the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) to ensure that facility inspection history and drug quality are considered in shortage mitigation efforts? 5. Does the FDA anticipate that efforts to temporarily rectify the shortage will result in increased costs for hospital purchasers or individual patients? 6. The 2023 carboplatin and cisplatin shortage prompted conversations about a durable solution for the chemotherapy supply chain. What steps has the FDA taken to prepare for future shortages given the continued fragility of that supply chain? 7. What is the market share for the oncology drugs in shortage? How many FDA-approved alternatives exist for these drugs and what are their respective market shares? Thank you for your attention to this request and ongoing work to protect patients. We look forward to your prompt response and working together to ensure older Americans maintain access to critical medications. ###",1,2026-08-06T07:37:31Z,2026-08-06T07:38:34Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-urge-passage-of-bill-to-rename-buffalo-post-office-in-honor-of-father-of-american-intelligence-william-j-donovan,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND URGE PASSAGE OF BILL TO RENAME BUFFALO POST OFFICE IN HONOR OF “FATHER OF AMERICAN INTELLIGENCE” WILLIAM J. DONOVAN",2026-08-05,2026,2026-08,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand called on Congress to quickly pass legislation renaming a Buffalo, New York post office in honor of Buffalo native William J. Donovan, known as the “Father of American Intelligence.” The bill, H.R. 1706, would designate the U.S. Postal Service facility at 1200 William Street as the William J. Donovan Post Office Building. Donovan was a World War I and World War II hero, a Medal of Honor recipient, and a longtime public servant who helped position the U.S. as a global leader in national security as founding director of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS). In a letter to Rand Paul, chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and Ranking Member Gary Peters, Gillibrand and Schumer wrote that the renaming would be a fitting tribute to a leader who dedicated his life to national and local service. ""William J. Donovan served our nation with honor and dedication,"" said Senator Gillibrand. ""He defended our country during both world wars, received the Medal of Honor for his bravery, and helped position the United States as a leader in national security. Renaming the post office in his honor will help his incredible legacy endure in Western New York."" “‘Wild Bill’ Donovan is an American hero who received the Medal of Honor and also was a founder of the modern intelligence community. He dedicated his life to serving Western New York and our country and played a key role protecting our national security during both world wars and in the decades after,” said Senator Schumer. “I cannot think of any better way to honor his legacy than with a Buffalo post office designation.” In 1923, Donovan received the Medal of Honor for his actions during a 1918 battle near Landres-et-Saint-Georges, France, where he was shot but refused to leave the battlefield. He later served as U.S. attorney for the Western District of New York and as an assistant attorney general under President Calvin Coolidge. During World War II, Donovan founded and directed the Office of Strategic Services, the precursor to the modern-day Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). He retired from military service as a major general. If approved by the committee, the bill moves to the full Senate for consideration. Full text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-08-06T07:37:31Z,2026-08-06T07:38:34Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-schiff-and-colleagues-press-trump-administration-on-chaotic-opaque-oversight-of-new-artificial-intelligence-models/,"Gillibrand, Schiff, And Colleagues Press Trump Administration On Chaotic, Opaque Oversight Of New Artificial Intelligence Models",2026-08-04,2026,2026-08,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 (D-NY), a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee and Senate Armed Services Committee, led four of her Senate Democratic colleagues in pressing the Trump administration for answers about its unpredictable oversight of frontier artificial intelligence (AI) models and its opaque standards for evaluating a model’s national security risk. The letter follows the Trump administration’s recent haphazard responses to frontier models from Anthropic and OpenAI, and comes as basic questions surround the implementation of Executive Order 14409, the White House’s voluntary pre-release review framework for frontier models. “The Trump administration’s unfocused, ad-hoc approach to AI risks America’s economic security and competitiveness,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The American people and leading AI companies need clear rules, not constantly changing dictates from the White House. Current administration policy is a disaster, failing to address security risks while threatening American innovation and pushing the world to Chinese alternatives. To safeguard the American people, protect American models and secure American economic leadership on the world stage, I’m demanding the administration work with Congress to establish a transparent, durable, and standardized regulatory AI framework.’ In addition to Gillibrand, the letter was signed by Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Mark Warner (D-VA). In the letter, the senators expressed their support for maintaining the United States’ competitive lead in AI development while protecting the country from serious national security risks. However, they stressed that continued reliance on ad hoc, case-by-case regulation will not sufficiently address the cybersecurity and other risks frontier AI models pose. The senators also warned that without consistent policy governing American models, consumers and businesses would be incentivized to migrate to models from foreign vendors, including those based in the People’s Republic of China (PRC). “Last month provided a dramatic example of these potential risks. During an internal evaluation, OpenAI models escaped their testing environment and used high-level technical capabilities to compromise a third party’s network without any instructions to take those actions. The Federal Government cannot be passive as these capabilities emerge. At the same time, the administration’s recent actions surrounding access to advanced U.S. AI models have raised serious concerns about process, transparency, and strategic effect. On June 12, 2026, the Department of Commerce (“the Department”) utilized an infrequently used authority to direct Anthropic to suspend all access to its Fable 5 and Mythos 5 models for foreign nationals (including foreign national employees inside the United States) citing an undisclosed national security concern later described as a narrow jailbreak finding. Because the directive took effect immediately and Anthropic had no reliable way to verify users’ nationality in real time, the company was forced to disable both models for all users worldwide within hours. Over the following eighteen days, the Department and Anthropic negotiated a resolution outside of public view: a partial restoration of Mythos 5 to a defined set of trusted partners on June 26, followed by a full lifting of the export controls on June 30,” the senators wrote. The senators continued, “While the Administration may have been responding to real security concerns to protect the United States, even justifiable interventions can create broader harm if the standards and decision-making processes are opaque, ad hoc, or unpredictable. Moreover, when the Executive Branch exercises authority delegated from Congress, such as in the conduct of export control administration, it is essential that it keep Congress fully apprised of its actions and procedures.” The senators concluded the letter with a list of areas of clarification that will bring transparency to the public processes and standards the administration uses to deem frontier AI models a national security risk, the legal authorities the administration relies on to restrict access to AI models, and the administration’s assessment of whether its oversight strategy could incentive adoption of Chinese or other non-U.S. AI models. “We support serious, technically informed action to prevent frontier AI from being misused by adversaries or criminals and to mitigate risks posed by misalignment in the models themselves. The United States cannot afford to create a policy environment in which the most advanced American AI systems are subject to opaque, case-by-case restrictions while Chinese alternatives appear cheaper, easier to access, and more predictable to deploy. A clear public framework is necessary to protect national security, preserve U.S. AI leadership, and give industry and allies confidence that the United States remains the safest and most reliable source of advanced AI technology. We hope you will work with Congress to pursue such a framework,” the senators wrote. The full text of the letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-08-05T07:37:37Z,2026-08-05T07:38:44Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-provide-paid-family-medical-leave-for-federal-employees/,"Gillibrand, Colleagues Introduce Legislation To Provide Paid Family, Medical Leave For Federal Employees",2026-07-31,2026,2026-07,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 (D-NY) led a group of eight senators in introducing the Comprehensive Paid Leave for Federal Employees Act, legislation to expand federal paid leave for federal employees to include 12 weeks of family and medical leave. “No American should have to choose between earning a paycheck and caring for a loved one or themselves,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Comprehensive Paid Leave for Federal Employees Act would provide federal employees up to 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave benefits. I will keep fighting until every American has guaranteed access to comprehensive paid leave.” Currently, under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), employees in the private sector can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to care for a newborn or an ill family member without fear of losing their jobs. For federal employees, family and medical leave continues to be unpaid. Studies have shown that providing paid leave for federal employees would save the government at least $50 million annually in turnover and replacement costs. With federal agencies struggling to recruit and retain young talent, family-friendly policies are necessary to maintain a robust workforce. Just six percent of the federal workforce is under the age of 30, while roughly 40 percent of the workforce is eligible to retire within the next three years. The Comprehensive Paid Leave for Federal Employees Act will guarantee 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave for federal employees in all instances covered by the FMLA, including: In order to care for the spouse, child, or parent of the employee, if such spouse, child, or parent has a serious health condition; Because of a serious health condition that makes the employee unable to perform the functions of the employee’s position; and Because of any qualifying exigency arising out of the fact that the spouse, child, or parent of the employee is on covered active duty (or has been notified of an impending call or order to covered active duty) in the Armed Forces. Senator Gillibrand is the Senate’s foremost champion for paid family and medical leave. Earlier this month, she joined Sen. John Boozman (R-AR) to introduce the More Paid Leave for More Americans Act, historic bipartisan legislation that would establish a competitive grant program for states that provide a minimum of six weeks of parental, caregiving, or medical leave. Since 2013, she has also repeatedly introduced the Family and Medical Insurance Leave (FAMILY) Act, which would establish a national program guaranteeing 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave for every American. In addition to Gillibrand, the bill is co-sponsored by Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM). The Comprehensive Paid Leave for Federal Employees Act is supported by the American Federation of Government Employees, National Treasury Employees Union, International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, National Federation of Federal Employees, NARFE, National Association of Letter Carriers, American Postal Workers Union, and American Association of University Women. “AFGE thanks Senator Brian Schatz for once again championing federal workers and their families by reintroducing the Comprehensive Paid Leave for Federal Employees Act. Expanding paid family and medical leave ensures federal employees never have to choose between caring for themselves or a loved one and serving the American people. This legislation will strengthen the federal workforce, improve employee retention, and help the government remain a competitive employer for the dedicated public servants our nation depends on,” said Everett Kelley, National President of the American Federation of Government Employees. “Federal employees should never have to choose between caring for their loved ones and paying their bills on time. The Comprehensive Paid Family Leave Act would provide federal workers with the flexibility and support they need during some of life’s most significant moments. As the federal government works to attract and retain talented public servants, providing comprehensive paid family leave is both the right thing to do and a smart investment in the workforce. NTEU is proud to endorse this legislation and appreciates Senator Schatz’s continued leadership in advancing policies that strengthen the federal workforce and support working families,” said Doreen Greenwald, National President of the National Treasury Employees Union. The full text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-colleagues-investigate-reports-that-dod-failed-to-provide-sufficient-care-for-service-members-injured-in-iran-strike/,"Gillibrand, Colleagues Investigate Reports That DoD Failed To Provide Sufficient Care For Service Members Injured In Iran Strike",2026-07-31,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Survivors of Iranian Attack on Port Shuaiba in Kuwait Say Pentagon Ignored Requests for Advanced Medical Aid, Failed to Provide Protection from Strikes, Misclassified Injuries “[S]oldiers Wounded in the Attack Concluded ‘the Military’s Medical System Failed Them.’” U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined 12 members of Congress in opening a new investigation into reports that the Department of Defense (DoD) failed to provide adequate medical care to service members injured in a March drone strike on a U.S. military post at Port Shuaiba in Kuwait. In a new letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the lawmakers asked him to provide clarity on the reports and DoD’s investigation into the Port Shuaiba strike. “Secretary Hegseth’s reckless behavior and poor judgment put U.S. service members in danger and jeopardized our national security,” said Senator Gillibrand. “His incompetent leadership left troops without the support and preparation they needed and hindered their access to care after they were injured. He must be held accountable for his blatant carelessness and callous approach to our service members’ safety.” In April, Gillibrand and her Senate colleagues launched an investigation into reports that Secretary Hegseth failed to take basic steps to protect troops during President Trump’s war in Iran, including during a strike that killed six service members and injured dozens in Kuwait. Following new reporting revealing that service members warned of safety issues ahead of the strike, the lawmakers pressed for answers on why troops injured in the attack have not received timely access to medical care and why the Trump administration failed to prepare for attacks on troops in the Middle East. “As President Trump once again ramps up his reckless war in Iran, and new reports indicate that additional American bases have come under attack, it is critical that DoD provide answers about its capacity to provide care for injured service members,” wrote the lawmakers. Survivors reported facing delays and challenges in getting necessary medical care, including that injured service members who were flown to Germany for care were then told that they could only get limited treatment and had to wait in barracks as the hospital was unable to admit them. Other service members with symptoms of traumatic brain injuries were reportedly unable to get proper care for nearly a month after the strike, even after they were flown from Germany to Fort Hood in Texas. The reports also raise serious concerns about DoD’s lack of preparation for a strike against Port Shuaiba. A soldier reportedly filed a complaint with the Inspector General stating that the lack of safety measures at Port Shuaiba were so significant that the unit’s force-protection assessments “recommended against positioning any personnel at Shuaiba Port.” Survivors of the strike reported that they believed that at least one victim of the attack could have survived if they had had proper access to care. The Army reportedly downplayed injuries sustained during the strike, including by telling families that their loved ones were not seriously injured despite suffering extensive injuries. “These reports are also emblematic of a broader pattern of the Trump administration’s blatant dismissal and disregard for the injuries and deaths of service members in this war,” wrote the lawmakers. Gillibrand also continued to call out DoD’s revision of official casualty counts from the war in Iran, writing with her colleagues that DoD’s apparent attempt to hide the growing casualty count of U.S. service members from President Trump’s war against Iran shows a “complete and utter disrespect to these service members, their loved ones, and those who served alongside them…It dishonors their ultimate sacrifice to attempt to hide the real costs of this war from the American people.” “As you and President Trump continue to risk the lives of service members in this reckless war, the American people deserve answers on whether you were adequately prepared to protect service members from Iranian attacks and get them the care they needed, and whether you will be prepared to do so if the war continues and escalates even further,” wrote the lawmakers. The lawmakers asked Secretary Hegseth to provide answers related to the reports of insufficient medical care, injury classifications, and details of the Port Shuaiba attack and ensuing investigation by August 12, 2026. In addition to Gillibrand, the letter was signed by Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Representatives Pat Ryan (D-NY-18), Gil Cisneros (D-CA-31), Jason Crow (D-CO-06), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06), Seth Moulton (D-MA-06), Derek Tran (D-CA-45), Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17), and Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-02). The full text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-holds-virtual-press-conference-on-her-fight-against-ai-scams-presses-ai-companies-on-how-they-are-protecting-seniors/,"Gillibrand Holds Virtual Press Conference On Her Fight Against AI Scams, Presses AI Companies On How They Are Protecting Seniors",2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,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 (D-NY), the top Democrat on the Senate Aging Committee, held a virtual press conference to sound the alarm about artificial intelligence (AI) scams targeting seniors. Gillibrand discussed her letter with Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) to the CEOs of top AI companies requesting information about safeguards on their AI chatbot companions for at-risk users like older adults, people with disabilities, and individuals in crisis. The press conference also follows a hearing that she held alongside Chairman Rick Scott (R-FL) to examine the ways that AI has fueled an alarming rise in financial scams against seniors. “AI has supercharged financial scams against seniors, making them more convincing, more deceptive, and easier to pull off. We must take action to ensure that our seniors are protected,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I am working to make sure that AI companies are safeguarding their companion chatbot products to make them safer for older adults, and I am working on numerous bipartisan bills to govern AI development and protect older Americans from AI fraud and exploitation. I am proud to lead the fight for these reforms, and I will do everything I can to protect seniors from deception.” According to the FBI, seniors lost nearly $8 billion to scammers in 2025, with an average loss of $39,000 per person. This includes over $350 million lost in AI-related scams. Total losses increased by 59% from 2024—due in part to the increasing sophistication of AI technology. Cryptocurrency investment scams cause the largest financial losses to older Americans, with individuals age 60 and older reporting $4.3 billion in crypto-related fraud losses in 2025 alone. Common AI scams include phishing attacks, where fraudsters trick individuals into revealing sensitive information; voice cloning, where generative AI is used to mimic a familiar voice; and image creation scams, where generative AI is used to forge documents and identification to make fraudulent messages appear trustworthy. Gillibrand and Kelly sent their letter to the CEOs of nine top AI companies requesting details about how they are protecting seniors who use their AI chatbot companions. Specifically, the letter asks: What safety testing these companies perform for their AI companion products. How the company tracks adverse events/harms involving their AI products, including hospitalizations, financial losses, or deaths. What types of safeguards are built into their AI companion products to mitigate harm and protect at-risk users like seniors. How the company includes older adults, people with disabilities, caregivers, and advocacy groups in the development of their AI products. Whether their companies provide independent researchers with access to data or tools to study the effects of their AI products on seniors and people with disabilities. The letter was sent to the CEOs of OpenAI, Microsoft, Google, Anthropic, Perplexity AI, X, Meta, Luka, Inc., and Character Technologies Inc. The full text of the letters can be found here. This letter is the latest of Gillibrand’s efforts to encourage responsible use and development of AI and combat scams against seniors. As ranking member of the Senate Aging Committee, she has led the fight to protect seniors from frauds and scams and demanded answers from those attempting to cut funding for agencies like the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). She has also introduced legislation such as the National Strategy for Combating Scams Act, the Stop the Scammers Act, and the Guarding Unprotected Aging Retirees from Deception (GUARD) Act. ###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-republicans-blocking-her-iran-war-powers-resolution/,Gillibrand Statement On Republicans Blocking Her Iran War Powers Resolution,2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,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 (D-NY), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after Republicans voted to block her resolution directing President Trump to remove the U.S. armed forces from hostilities against Iran unless military force is explicitly authorized by Congress. Earlier today, Senator Gillibrand gave a speech on the Senate floor advocating for passage of her resolution to bring an end to the war and lower costs for New York families. “Today’s vote sends a clear message to the American people: Republicans have abandoned their duties as elected officials and refuse to keep President Trump in check. At a time when working New Yorkers are being crushed by skyrocketing gas prices and our service members are being killed and seriously injured, the president is content spending American tax dollars and risking American lives in another endless foreign war. “I am deeply disappointed by the failure of this vote and by Republicans’ support for a war with no justification, no strategy, and no end in sight. The American people did not ask for and do not support this war, and the Constitution makes clear that Congress, not the president, has the power to authorize military action. I will continue fighting for accountability, to reassert Congress’ constitutional role, and to prioritize policies that put working families first.” ###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/watch-gillibrand-slams-president-trumps-reckless-iran-war-ahead-of-senate-vote-on-her-war-powers-resolution/,WATCH: Gillibrand Slams President Trump’s Reckless Iran War Ahead Of Senate Vote On Her War Powers Resolution,2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,NY,Kirsten E. Gillibrand,G000555,www.gillibrand.senate.gov,gillibrand,https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"GILLIBRAND: “We were told this president would bring peace and lower prices. Instead, he gave us war and pain.” “This administration demands billions for wars abroad, then claims we can’t afford to improve our schools, repair our roads, or lower the cost of healthcare.” ***Watch Senator Gillibrand’s floor speech here*** Today in a speech from the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) slammed President Trump for his reckless, illegal war in Iran that has caused prices to skyrocket for working families and led to 18 American troops being killed. Gillibrand’s speech preceded the Senate’s vote on her War Powers Resolution that directs President Trump to remove the U.S. armed forces from hostilities against Iran unless military force is explicitly authorized by Congress. Senator Gillibrand’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below: M. President, I rise in support of my legislation to end President Trump’s unauthorized, illegal war with Iran. This war will go down as one of the greatest strategic failures in modern American history. It was launched without a clear plan, executed without a coherent strategy, and has become a costly, self-inflicted disaster. Every justification we were given for this conflict has proven hollow. We were told that Iran’s nuclear program would be eliminated. Instead, Iran still holds nuclear material—and its leaders may be more determined than ever to build a weapon. We were told that the Iranian regime would crumble. Instead, it now holds dangerous new leverage over the world’s energy supply in the Strait of Hormuz. We were told this president would bring peace and lower prices. Instead, he gave us war and pain. New York families are struggling to afford groceries and keep up with the rent. And what is President Trump doing? Pouring billions of tax dollars into an open-ended war in Iran. His reckless war is driving up monthly bills and making everyday life harder for working families. This administration demands billions for wars abroad, then claims we can’t afford to improve our schools, repair our roads, or lower the cost of healthcare. President Trump has made clear that he doesn’t factor in how Americans are doing financially. But the families I represent feel it every single day. Every time they fill the gas tank and watch the numbers climb, New Yorkers are being forced to pay a premium for this president’s instability. According to data from the Joint Economic Committee, the average New York family has paid an additional 432 dollars on gas alone since this war began. Statewide, that’s an extra 2 billion dollars at the pump. Let me repeat that: An extra 2 billion dollars. Nationwide, Americans have paid 60 billion dollars more on gas. Every time I go home, I hear from my constituents about their concerns. The cost of health care. The cost of gas. The cost to keep the lights on and put food on the table. Those are the conversations happening at kitchen tables across America. That is what we should be focused on here in Washington—not dropping bombs across the world. And let us not forget: there is also a human cost to this war that no dollar figure can capture. Our service members did not volunteer to be pawns in a chaotic, unauthorized war with no plan and no end in sight. Eighteen American heroes have already paid the ultimate price. Eighteen families have been shattered. Just last week, New York lost one of our own—Sergeant Angel Rampersad of Queens. Sergeant Rampersad was a true patriot who begged her mother to let her enlist the moment she was old enough. She served this country courageously and honorably for more than six years before she was killed in an Iranian attack in Jordan. Our service members take on one of the most dangerous jobs there is. In return, we owe them a sacred obligation: we do not send them into harm’s way without a clear mission, defined objectives, and the support of the American people. The president’s war with Iran is a betrayal of that obligation. New Yorkers—and all Americans—deserve better. So I ask my colleagues: how many more service members must we lose? How many more billions must families pay at the pump? How many more empty promises must be made from an out-of-control administration before this body finally acts? Under the Constitution, we have the power to end this war today. Let’s use it. I urge my colleagues to vote yes on this resolution. Thank you. I yield back. ###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/citing-core-national-security-and-economic-reasons-schumer-demands-apple-reject-chinese-military-linked-chips,"CITING CORE NATIONAL SECURITY AND ECONOMIC REASONS, SCHUMER DEMANDS APPLE REJECT CHINESE MILITARY-LINKED CHIPS",2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Leads Bipartisan Push To Apple CEO Tim Cook Urging Company Not To Use Chinese Memory Chips, Which Would Undermine American Workers And The Nation’s Growing Domestic Memory Chip Industry – Including In Central NY Schumer Warns Apple Purchasing Chinese-Made Memory Chips Would Hurt America’s National Security And Shape Memory Chip Market By Setting Dangerous Example For Other Companies To Follow Schumer To Apple: Don’t Undermine American Workers, Manufacturing, And National Security By Using Chinese Military-Linked Memory Chips Today, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer led a bipartisan group of Senate colleagues calling on Apple CEO Tim Cook to commit that no memory chips produced by Chinese military-linked companies ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT) or Yangtze Memory Technologies Co (YMTC) will be used in any Apple product sold anywhere in the world. Schumer explained that communities across Upstate New York, including Central New York, are growing centers for some of the country’s most advanced chip manufacturing, and that this would hurt the nation’s domestic semiconductor supply chain by setting a dangerous precedent for other companies to follow. “Using Chinese-made chips produced by companies allied with the Chinese Communist Party regime undermines American manufacturing and national security,” said Schumer. Schumer also demanded answers about Apple’s reported testing of Chinese memory chips and its alleged efforts to lobby the Trump administration against national security restrictions on Chinese semiconductor suppliers. “Fueled by investment from my Chips & Science Law, workers in Central New York and across the country are carrying out the largest domestic expansion of domestic memory chip production in a generation, and American companies, like Apple, should be buying chips stamped ‘Made in America,’ not from companies linked to the Chinese military,” said Senator Schumer. “I wrote my CHIPS & Science Law, so we would make American microchips again, with American workers, and not be over-reliant on semiconductors from overseas. That’s why I’m leading a bipartisan group of senators calling on Apple CEO Tim Cook to commit to not using memory chips produced by Chinese military-linked companies. I’ve long sounded the alarm on the grave national security and economic threats posed by YMTC, CMXT, and other companies backed by the Chinese Communist Party. Apple integrating these Chinese chips into its supply chain would send a dangerous message to other American companies that they, too, should turn to Chinese-made chips. This, despite the real national security concerns and how the CCP is actively trying to undermine American chip manufacturing companies by propping up Chinese companies like CXMT and YMTC, I will always fight to protect Upstate New York’s growing semiconductor superhighway, which is key to our economy and national security.” In the letter, Schumer and colleagues warn that the Department of Defense has designated both CXMT and YMTC as Chinese military companies and that federal law already requires the U.S. government to phase products containing their semiconductors out of federal procurement, a law that exists after a Schumer-led effort to include this requirement in the FY2023 National Defense Authorization Act. The senators argue that Apple’s adoption of Chinese memory chips for use anywhere in its supply chain would undermine American semiconductor manufacturing, strengthen Beijing’s military-industrial base, and send a market signal that could steer the global technology industry toward suppliers the U.S. government has identified as national security threats. Schumer has long fought to stop the growth of Chinese chipmakers with ties to the Chinese Communist Party and its military ambitions that threaten U.S. national security. In addition to his successful inclusion of a provision in the FY2023 NDAA to remove Chinese-made chips from the defense supply chain, Schumer also successfully advocated in 2022 for the Biden administration to add YMTC and dozens of other Chinese companies to a trade blacklist, restricting U.S. exports of advanced U.S. technology that could be used by these companies to advance the Chinese Communist Party’s military and economic agenda. Also in 2022, Schumer joined bipartisan colleagues to push the Biden administration to stop Apple from a previous consideration of integrating Chinese-made chips into their supply chain. For years, Schumer has also been actively pushing to add CXMT to the Commerce Department’s Entity List, which already includes YMTC after Schumer’s advocacy. Schumer is also co-lead of the bipartisan Multilateral Alignment of Technology Controls on Hardware (MATCH) Act, which would modernize U.S. export controls to ensure adversaries cannot buy ""chokepoint"" semiconductor manufacturing equipment (SME) technology from the United States or our partners. Among many actions, this bill would place tighter restrictions on all fabs run by CXMT, YMTC, and other Chinese firms of concern, cutting off access to critical semiconductor manufacturing tools. Schumer is actively working to include the MATCH Act in this year’s NDAA bill. Schumer and colleagues' letter to Apple can be found HERE or below: Dear Mr. Cook: We write to express our concern regarding credible reports that Apple has begun testing DRAM from ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT) for potential use in devices and is allegedly lobbying U.S. federal officials against national security controls to permit the broader use of Chinese memory chips in Apple products. This short-sighted move would be a mistake, and it would ensure the world's most valuable consumer-electronics company grows dependent on critical supplies from a firm the United States government has formally designated as a Chinese military company. We urge Apple to abandon any effort to incorporate memory from CXMT, Yangtze Memory Technologies Co. (YMTC), or any other Chinese state-backed supplier into any of its products. The U.S. government has been clear that both CXMT and YMTC present significant national security threats. The Department of Defense designated both CXMT and YMTC as Chinese military companies under Section 1260H, and both remain on the list the Department updated last month. The Bureau of Industry and Security identified YMTC as a national security threat when it added the company to the Entity List in 2022. State-owned shareholders held over 35 percent of CXMT before its planned Shanghai listing, and CXMT moved into profit only after the global memory chip shortage took hold, after it ran heavy losses in earlier years that were sustained by state capital. Beijing has run this same playbook in countless critical supply chains before including steel, batteries, and shipbuilding, where state-subsidized capacity drove prices below market levels, forced trusted Western producers out of business, and made buyers dependent on America’s chief adversary for vital goods. Congress has also weighed in on the national security risks posed by CXMT and YMTC. Section 5949 of the FY 2023 NDAA barred federal agencies from acquiring products that use CXMT and YMTC semiconductors beginning in December 2027. If Apple pursues Chinese memory chips in its devices, it would be directly supporting a supply chain the U.S. government is legally bound to phase out of its devices. As the most demanding component buyer in the world, a decision by Apple to procure Chinese memory chips would carry weight well beyond the company’s own purchase orders. This validation would function as a signal that other buyers follow. That signal would arrive just as workers in Indiana, Idaho, New York, and Virginia carry out the largest expansion of domestic memory production in a generation, including the advanced packaging plant SK Hynix is building alongside Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. Analysis indicates that CXMT’s pricing is currently, in some cases, higher than that of global competitors, and CXMT has recently hiked prices on its existing customers. Even if Apple were able to negotiate lower initial pricing from CXMT, this does not justify the national security exposure that Apple would create by qualifying or integrating chips from a designated Chinese military supplier into its products. That exposure should weigh far more heavily on the company than any short-lived savings a supply arrangement might promise. The limitation that CXMT memory would, for the moment, be confined to devices sold in China cannot be expected to hold, because once a part clears qualification for Apple production, extending it worldwide is a single procurement decision away. The revenue and reputational gains enjoyed by CXMT would hold regardless of where the finished device is eventually sold. Apple confronted a version of this very choice in 2022, when it evaluated YMTC NAND for the iPhone and, after congressional scrutiny, thought better of it. Accordingly, we request your responses to the following by August 21, 2026: Will Apple commit that it will not incorporate CXMT or YMTC memory into any Apple product, whether sold in the United States or abroad? If not, please explain why. Please describe the current status of Apple's testing or qualification of memory from CXMT, YMTC, and any other Chinese supplier, including which product lines and memory types, whether DRAM, NAND, or HBM, are involved. What information about Apple's products, technical specifications, or product roadmaps has Apple shared, or would it share, with CXMT, YMTC, or their representatives in the course of qualification? Has Apple assessed whether memory from CXMT or YMTC relies on the intellectual property of United States or allied memory manufacturers, including whether those Chinese suppliers are licensed to the relevant patents, and what legal or supply exposure that would create for Apple's products? Under a hypothetical procurement agreement, what access, if any, would CXMT, YMTC, or their personnel have to Apple's design, production, or supplier-management facilities in connection with this memory, and what data would that memory or those personnel be able to collect? During the current shortage, has Apple asked any United States or allied memory manufacturer for additional supply, increased allocation, or priority over other customers, and what was the result? Has Apple conducted any analysis of the supply chain security risks associated with sourcing memory from CXMT, YMTC, or other Chinese suppliers, including the risk of dependency on supply that could be restricted, controlled, disrupted, or terminated by the Chinese Communist Party or the Government of the People’s Republic of China? If so, please describe that analysis and its conclusions. The precedent Apple would set by addressing the memory shortage this way would shape the memory market and this country's security for years after supply has returned to normal, and we urge you to weigh that carefully before the company commits itself any further. We look forward to your response. ###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-demands-answers-on-trump-administration-plan-to-shutter-new-york-export-import-bank-office/,Gillibrand Demands Answers On Trump Administration Plan To Shutter New York Export-Import Bank Office,2026-07-29,2026,2026-07,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 demanded answers from the Trump administration regarding its planned closure of the New York regional office of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM). The office helps businesses in 10 states – including New York – expand into overseas markets and finance their export activity, helping to maintain the state’s status as a major hub of global trade. “New York’s small business owners are being crushed under the weight of the Trump Tariff Tax and rising costs from the war in Iran, and they need assistance now more than ever,”said Senator Gillibrand. “Closing the New York regional office of the Export-Import Bank would jeopardize the support that business owners in our state need to compete internationally. It would also threaten the jobs of those who work every day to provide that support and keep New York’s economy moving. This is unacceptable, and I am calling for immediate answers from this administration.” In a letter to EXIM President and Chairman John Jovanovic, Senator Gillibrand expressed concern about the proposed closure and its potential impact on small and medium-sized businesses in New York. She noted that business owners could lose timely access to federal assistance and crucial financial support as they look to increase their international presence. In a series of questions, Senator Gillibrand demanded that EXIM explain its rationale for the closure, any consideration of alternatives, and the effect that this move could have on both EXIM’s workforce and New York’s business landscape. She wrote, “If enacted, the present plan would hinder EXIM’s visibility, accessibility, and responsiveness to small and medium-sized enterprises looking to expand to overseas markets, as well as businesses that are reliant on export financing support to compete internationally. Furthermore, the proposed office closure would be a disservice to local financial institutions, chambers of commerce, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) resource partners, and other organizations that have worked with EXIM on countless business expansions and deals through the years.” Senator Gillibrand further warned that the closure could cost good union jobs. Mandating that New York-based staff relocate to Washington, DC, as planned, threatens to force out EXIM employees with years of institutional knowledge and deep stakeholder relationships. Gillibrand requested that the office be kept open or that staff be allowed to work remotely to mitigate impacts to these employees and to ensure that they can continue site visits, presentations, and other in-person engagements at a high frequency. She continued, “Should the regional office close, EXIM could lose long-term employees with a history of strong work performance, institutional knowledge, and expertise, which would ultimately harm businesses in New York and the Northeast region. Moreover, your plan disproportionately impacts employees in union leadership roles since New York serves as the duty station for the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), AFL-CIO Local 2211 unit. This is especially troubling in light of previous attempts by EXIM to undermine AFGE’s representation of union members who worked at the New York regional office during the first Trump administration.” The full text of the letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-07-30T07:32:48Z,2026-07-30T07:34:08Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-applauds-300-million-federal-chips-award-for-globalfoundries-from-his-chips-and-science-law-to-boost-domestic-silicon-photonics-research_development,SCHUMER APPLAUDS $300 MILLION FEDERAL CHIPS AWARD FOR GLOBALFOUNDRIES FROM HIS CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW TO BOOST DOMESTIC SILICON PHOTONICS RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT,2026-07-29,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Previously Delivered Whopping $1.5B+ Award From His CHIPS & Science Law For GlobalFoundries To Spur A $16B Expansion Of Current Fab & Build New, State-Of-The-Art Second Manufacturing Facility And Advanced Packaging In Malta, And $375 CHIPS R&D Award To Launch New Quantum Technology GlobalFoundries Business Schumer Explains Silicon Photonics Research And Development Is Critical To Move Data More Quickly To Power AI And High-Performance Computing Schumer: More Fed $$ For GlobalFoundries To Grow In Capital Region! U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today announced that GlobalFoundries is receiving a letter of intent from the U.S. Department of Commerce to award up to $300 million in federal funding from Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law for accelerating domestic silicon photonics research and development to support artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure. “GlobalFoundries is powering the future of AI right here in the Capital Region. The silicon photonics that GlobalFoundries will develop in the Capital Region will help ensure AI and high-performance computing systems stay at the cutting-edge, which is critical to American competitiveness and national security,” said Senator Schumer. “This critical research and technology development by GlobalFoundries is made possible by federal investment from my CHIPS & Science Law, which further positions Upstate NY as a global hub for semiconductor innovation and manufacturing. Together, we are writing the next chapter of American leadership in technology, proudly stamped ‘Made in Upstate NY’.” Schumer explained this federal funding is critical for accelerating domestic silicon photonics research and development necessary to support increased workloads for AI. Specifically, this federal funding will support GlobalFoundries’ work advancing next-generation optical materials, wafer technologies and advanced packaging across its facilities in Malta, NY and Burlington, VT. By using light instead of electric signals to move data, silicon photonics developed by GlobalFoundries will be able to deliver more power at greater efficiency for AI advanced computing systems. Schumer has long supported GlobalFoundries’ growth in the Capital Region, delivering a CHIPS award of $1.5 billion in direct funding through the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law he initiated and successfully passed into law. The funding is supporting the expansion of GlobalFoundries’ existing fab in Malta, NY, and the construction of a second, state-of-the-art fab at the same site, in addition to the modernization of the company’s current facility in VT, all of which will create thousands of new, good-paying manufacturing and construction jobs. GlobalFoundries then secured an additional $75 million in CHIPS funding to make a $3 billion investment to create a first-of-its-kind advanced chip packaging facility at its Saratoga County location, thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, and an additional $375 million from the CHIPS & Science Law to launch Quantum Technology Solutions, a new quantum business within GlobalFoundries that will position America at the forefront of technology innovation. Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. In addition to massive federal funding for GlobalFoundries to grow in the Capital Region, IBM has finalized an agreement with the Commerce Department for $1 billion in federal CHIPS R&D funding, combined with an additional $1 billion in investment from IBM, to form a new entity to operate a secure 300mm quantum wafer fab at Albany NanoTech. Micron has broken ground and poured concrete for the start of construction of the first fab as part of a historic $100+ billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory chip complex in Central New York with the support of a $6.1 billion CHIPS direct funding award, combined with billions more in incentives through the federal semiconductor Investment Tax Credit. Corning Incorporated finalized a $32 million agreement to make a $315 million investment that would increase production at its Canton facility of specialized glass vital for the semiconductor industry. Edwards Vacuum is nearing completion of a new first-of-its-kind-in-the-country $300+ million dry pump manufacturing facility, supported by an $18 million CHIPS funding award. TTM Technologies, a printed circuit board manufacturer, just cut the ribbon on a new facility in Onondaga County, creating 400 good-paying jobs, made possible by $30 million in federal investment that Schumer delivered. Menlo Micro will invest $150 million to build its microchip switch manufacturing facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new, good-paying jobs. Schumer also secured a federal Tech Hub designation created in his CHIPS & Science Law for the Syracuse-Rochester-Buffalo Region to be a Semiconductor Superhighway, delivering $40 million in federal investment for workforce training, commercialization, and supply chain initiatives to support the chip industry’s buildout across Upstate NY. ###",1,2026-07-30T07:32:48Z,2026-07-30T07:34:08Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-reveals-trumps-iran-war-has-already-cost-lower-hudson-valley-families-122-million-more-at-the-pumpan-extra-504-per-household-on-gas-alone,SCHUMER REVEALS: TRUMP’S IRAN WAR HAS ALREADY COST LOWER HUDSON VALLEY FAMILIES $122 MILLION MORE AT THE PUMP—AN EXTRA $504 PER HOUSEHOLD ON GAS ALONE,2026-07-29,2026,2026-07,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Average New York Household Has Spent Over $4,500 More Under Trump—Including $310 More On Groceries, $983 More On Housing & $241 More On Electricity, While Health Insurance Deductibles Have Jumped By Over $1,000 Schumer: Trump Promised Lower Costs—Then Stuck Families With The Bill U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today unveiled a new report from the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee showing that New York families have paid more than $4,500 extra for everyday essentials—including groceries, gas, housing, and healthcare—since President Trump took office. New Yorkers are bearing the cost of failed policies, including tariffs, cuts to vital programs like SNAP and Medicaid, and a reckless war in Iran that has driven up food and fuel prices, putting even greater strain on the budgets of Upstate New York families. “New Yorkers are paying the price for President Trump’s disastrous policies, including rash tariffs and a reckless war. From groceries and gas to housing and healthcare, families are being squeezed by rising costs,” said Senator Schumer. “President Trump promised to lower costs, but instead, working- and middle-class families across Upstate New York are left to foot the bill and pay more while he pads his own bank account. We need real solutions that lower costs and deliver the relief people need—not the constant chaos, cost hikes, and corruption coming from the Trump administration.” According to district-by-district data, households in New York's 17th Congressional District have spent an estimated $122 million more on gas since the start of Trump’s Iran war, with the average family paying an additional $504. Similar increases have affected neighboring communities, with families in NY-18 paying an estimated $535 more and those in NY-19 paying an estimated $547 more. Schumer said, “Whether commuting to work, driving kids to summer camp, or making a trip to the grocery store, rising fuel costs from this reckless war are requiring families to stretch tight budgets.” Schumer has forced a series of votes on a war powers resolution, including this week, to end Trump’s costly war and the ongoing chaos in the Straits of Hormuz that sent gas prices soaring. Families are also facing shock at the checkout counter, where they are paying an estimated $310 more for groceries than they did a year ago. Since Trump took office, the average price of ground beef has climbed nearly every month, reaching a record high of almost $7 per pound. To help tackle these costs, Schumer introduced his Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act, landmark legislation that would break up meatpacking monopolies, restore competition, cut out corporate greed, and deliver relief to families struggling to put food on the table. Even after leaving the store, New Yorkers can't escape rising costs. Back at home, New York families have paid an estimated $983 more for housing costs, including rent and mortgage payments, since Trump took office, while also contending with record-high utility bills. To help address this crisis, Schumer championed the bipartisan ROAD to Housing Act, which President Trump then refused to sign into law. This legislation is a first step towards ending the housing affordability crisis and ensuring Americans don’t have to break the bank to keep a roof over their head. Despite President Trump’s repeated pledges on the campaign trail that his administration would “end inflation” and bring down costs, Trump has instead sent prices through the roof. In recent months, Schumer has rolled out a series of plans to counter Trump’s failed policies and lower the costs of housing, food, energy, and health care. The report from the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee breaks down how much New York families are paying. ###",1,2026-07-30T07:32:48Z,2026-07-30T07:34:08Z