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.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-and-merkley-announce-federal-investment-of-more-than-1-million-in-habitat-for-humanity-in-tillamook-county,Wyden and Merkley Announce Federal Investment of More Than $1 Million in Habitat for Humanity in Tillamook County,2023-12-28,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Federal loan will help Habitat open ReStore retail operations in Tillamook County

Washington D.C.— U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a federal investment of more than $1.1 million for Habitat for Humanity in Tillamook to secure space for its retail operations and administrative offices.

“In my town halls in Tillamook County and throughout the state, I hear from Oregon families and businesses that housing poses a huge challenge,” Wyden said. “Housing is a human right, and Habitat for Humanity has been on the frontline providing much-needed homes for Oregonians struggling to afford a roof over their heads. This investment will allow Habitat for Humanity to continue serving the citizens of Tillamook County for years to come.”

“Everyone should have a safe, affordable place to call home. This federal investment heading to Habitat for Humanity in Tillamook County will help more rural Oregonians access quality housing,” said Sen. Merkley, who formerly led one of Habitat for Humanity's Oregon chapters. “I have seen firsthand the difference that accessible homeownership makes for families and the inspiring dedication of Habitat's staff and volunteers, who are working to realize a world where everyone has a decent home in a decent community.”

The $1.13 million Rural Development loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will be used to buy an 8,625-square-foot commercial facility for Habitat for Humanity of Tillamook County's ReStore's retail operations and the organization's administrative offices.

Habitat for Humanity works with families, local communities, volunteers and partners to enable more people to live in affordable and safe homes. Its advocacy focuses on policy reform to remove systemic barriers preventing low-income and historically underserved families from having access to adequate, affordable shelter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-22-million-for-rural-school-hybrid-program,"Wyden, Merkley Announce $2.2 Million for Rural School Hybrid Program",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a $2.2 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development Program for Chemeketa Community College.

“Students of all backgrounds deserve a fair shot at a solid education,” Wyden said. “This funding is the perfect example of how to expand opportunitiesfor folks in rural Oregon and across the nation, and I applaud Chemeketa Community College for receiving this grant.”

“Higher education helps connect students with resources, opportunities, and tools to thrive, building stronger communities, economies, and futures in Oregon,” said Merkley. “As the first in my family to graduate from college, I know how challenging it can be to access higher education—especially for those coming from underrepresented and underserved backgrounds. This incredibly important funding for Chemeketa Community College will help provide crucial support and opportunities, opening doors for Oregon’s rural students”

“We are thrilled to receive this grant for the 'Chemeketa College-going Access and Regional Equity for Students (CARES)' project. This funding will empower us to expand educational opportunities for rural high school students, strengthen community partnerships, and ensure a brighter future for our region,"" said Jessica Howard, Ph.D., President and CEO of Chemeketa Community College.

The $2.2 million federal grant will support the Chemeketa College-going Access and Regional Equity for Students (CARES) program. The program expands career and technical education dual credit courses, develops hybrid CTE and combined school enrollment models, and provides teachers with effective technology and professional development opportunities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-crapo-applaud-senate-passage-of-legislation-honoring-medal-of-honor-recipients,"Wyden, Crapo Applaud Senate Passage of Legislation Honoring Medal of Honor Recipients",2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"The bipartisan bill would designate the longest U.S. highway as the “National Medal of Honor Highway”

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Mike Crapo, R-Idaho today applauded Senate passage of their bipartisan legislation designating U.S. Highway 20 between Newport, Ore. and New England as the “National Medal of Honor Highway.”

""It's an honor to have worked closely with veterans in Oregon and nationwide in the grassroots movement to designate our country's longest continuous highway, stretching from the Pacific to the Atlantic, as the ‘National Medal of Honor Highway,’” Wyden said. “I’m proud that my bill to officially recognize U.S. Highway 20 as the ‘National Medal of Honor Highway’ has passed the Senate. This bill is more than a symbolic gesture—it's a timeless tribute to the heroes of America. I am steadfast in my commitment to relentlessly champion this cause alongside our veterans, and I’ll keep fighting tooth and nail to get this bill signed into law.”

“The Medal of Honor represents the determination and courage of those who acted far beyond the call of duty. I look forward to the enactment of law cementing this national designation to honor each of them across these 400 miles,” Crapo said.

The Medal of Honor is the nation’s highest military award for valor, presented by the president in Congress’ name. U.S. service members who distinguish themselves “through conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty” can receive the medal.

Redesignating U.S. Highway 20— the longest continuous highway in the United States— as the “National Medal of Honor Highway” would honor each state’s current and future Medal of Honor recipients and recipients from any state who travel on it.

Legislatures and governors in all 12 states along U.S. Highway 20 have designated their state Medal of Honor Highways covering 100 percent of the 3,365-mile Medal of Honor Highway across America. The 12 states along U.S. Highway 20 account for about 62 percent of all 3,516 Medal of Honor awards presented since the Civil War. Designating U.S. Highway 20 as the “National Medal of Honor Highway'' would ensure all 3,516 recipients and any future recipients from all 50 states and territories are honored.

U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., Mike Braun, R-Ind., James Risch, R-Idaho, Chuck Schumer, D- N.Y., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Todd Young, R-Ind., Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., John Fetterman, D-Pa., Ed Markey, D-Mass., Steve Daines, R-Mont., Deb Fischer, R-Neb., J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, Jon Tester, D-Mont., and Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., cosponsored the Senate version of the bill. U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly, R-Pa., and Brian Higgins, D-N.Y. led similar legislation in the House of Representatives.

The legislation is supported by the Bend Heroes Foundation, Military Officers Association of America, The American Legion, Legion of Valor, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Vietnam Veterans of America, Medal of Honor Historical Society of the United States, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.

Dick Tobiason, LTC US Army Retired, Chairman, Bend Heroes Foundation: “As the Bend Heroes Foundation’s project manager of the Medal of Honor Highway Across America on US Hwy 20, I thank Senators Ron Wyden and Mike Crapo for their outstanding leadership resulting in today’s Senate passage of the National Medal of Honor Highway designation. I’m proud the project was launched in Oregon. And I also thank the national veterans groups who supported the Bend Heroes Foundation’s request – American Legion, Legion of Valor, Congressional Medal of Honor Society, Military Officers Association of America, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Medal of Honor Historical Society of the United States and Vietnam Veterans of America.”

The text of the bill is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-bonamici-salinas-colleagues-call-for-expanded-funding-for-community-health-centers,"Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Salinas, Colleagues call for Expanded Funding for Community Health Centers",2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, along with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici and Andrea Salinas, joined bipartisan colleagues today to urge the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to provide more access to federal resources for community healthcare centers.

Currently, there are 136 Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alikes in Oregon and across the nation that provide services to over 1 million patients, but still don’t receive federal resources they should be eligible for. FQHC Look-Alikes are organizations that meet all of the eligibility requirements of an FQHC that receives a Public Health Service Section 330 grant, but do not receive grant funding.

“These community-based health care providers are already serving populations that may not otherwise be able to access care, and hope to expand the reach of their services to more people,” the legislators said.

“HRSA should be leveraging the network of existing FQHC Look-Alikes. By prioritizing Look-Alikes that already comply with Health Center Program requirements over brand new sites, HRSA will ensure that federal dollars are being allocated to health centers with a proven track record of success that hope to expand the universe of patients they can serve and expand the care they are able to offer.”

The letter was led by Senator Wyden and U.S. Representative Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.). Along with Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici and Salinas, the letter also was co-signed in the Senate by the U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Angus King (I-Maine), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and in the House by Representatives Ken Calvert (R-Calif), Josh Harder (D-Calif.), Mike Kelly (R-Pa.), Young Kim (R-Calif.) and Katie Porter (D-Calif).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-urges-federal-trade-commission-to-block-kroger-albertsons-merger,Wyden Urges Federal Trade Commission to Block Kroger-Albertsons Merger,2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today urged the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to block the proposed Kroger and Albertsons merger due to potential negative effects on consumers in Oregon and nationwide.

“Specifically, I am concerned that the proposed merger, if approved, will result in fewer pharmacy options for Oregonians, fewer economic opportunities for Oregon’s small farmers, and harm to Oregon’s workers and consumers,” Wyden wrote in the letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan. “The Oregon Health Authority undertook a preliminary review of the impact of the proposed merger on health care and found that the proposed merger would result in a harmful concentration of retail pharmacies in the state.”

In the letter, Wyden also emphasized this merger would put Oregonians' privacy at risk due to Kroger’s policies for sharing patient information with law enforcement without warrants.

“As part of a recent inquiry I conducted into major pharmacy chains’ privacy practices, I learned that Kroger provides pharmacy records to law enforcement officials without a warrant or any internal review by a legal professional. This finding places Kroger behind the majority of its peer chain pharmacies in terms of its commitment to safeguarding patient privacy.”

“Less than a decade ago, Albertsons-Safeway proposed a similar divestiture only to buy back many of the divested stores two years later and watch the rest go out of business. I urge the FTC to use the Albertsons-Safeway outcome as a guide to the Commission as it considers possible outcomes of this proposed merger,” Wyden continued.

The Kroger-Albertsons merger threatens to make the consolidation crisis in the retail food market worse, following on large deals like the Albertsons-Safeway merger in 2015, as well as the expansion of mega-retailers across the country that have driven independent grocers out of business.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-begins-2024-with-seven-town-halls-in-central-and-eastern-oregon,Wyden Begins 2024 With Seven Town Halls in Central & Eastern Oregon,2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Portland – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced he will begin his 2024 town hall schedule with seven in-person town halls the first week of January in Jefferson, Sherman, Morrow, Umatilla, Union, Baker and Malheur counties.

Heading into these initial town halls of the new year, Wyden has held a total of 1,065 town halls throughout Oregon in fulfillment of his pledge to hold at least one town hall each year in each of Oregon’s 36 counties.

“I’m very much looking forward to starting 2024 with these open-to-all town halls in the ongoing spirit of the ‘Oregon Way’ where anybody can ask questions, share opinions and suggest ideas,” Wyden said. “Heading into a new congressional year, these open-to-all town halls are especially timely because Oregonians in these counties can help shape legislative priorities for the next 12 months and beyond.”

The schedule for the upcoming town halls is as follows:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/oregon-officials-statements-on-600-million-federal-award-for-interstate-bridge-replacement-project,Oregon Officials’ Statements on $600 Million Federal Award for Interstate Bridge Replacement Project,2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Wyden, Merkley, Kotek, Blumenauer, Bonamici and ODOT Director assess impact of funding for I-5 bridge

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, Gov. Tina Kotek, U.S. Reps. Earl Blumenauer and Suzanne Bonamici as well as the Oregon Department of Transportation issued the following statements about today’s $600 million award from the U.S. Department of Transportation to the Interstate-5 Bridge replacement project.

“Today’s $600 million down payment on the federal investment needed for the Interstate Bridge is good news for freight traffic in Oregon and throughout the Northwest as well as helpful for commuters,” Wyden said. “Jobs and the Oregon economy are big winners with a modern interstate bridge. I’m all with seeing this vital project through to completion with the ongoing help of federal tax dollars and without any new tolling costs landing on Oregon motorists, many of whom are already battling to make ends meet. I also look forward to pressing ahead to pursue all available options to secure the federal investment needed for the Port of Coos Bay to achieve its innovative container terminal project, which has the power to change the economic future of the South Coast and our entire state.”

“What a historic day! The I-5 Bridge Replacement Project receiving a $600 million USDOT Mega Grant is not only a game changer for Oregonians who will soon have expanded transportation options to cross the Columbia River, but a huge win for our economy as the project will generate many good-paying union jobs,” Merkley said. “This federal funding secured through the landmark Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is the result of intense bipartisan teamwork, and a huge step forward to realize a long-sought project that will boost seismic resiliency in the region and ensure safer, faster, and more reliable transportation for generations to come. I’ll also keep fighting for Coos Bay’s transformative container port project, which would be a huge win for the region and the nation.”

""This is a big moment for the Pacific Northwest and demonstrates the national significance of this effort,” Kotek said. “Replacing the Interstate Bridge is a critical infrastructure investment for our local communities, two states, and the entire West Coast. This project will help advance our goal of reducing emissions through a modern, multimodal bridge and will provide an infusion of federal funds to our region that will support local jobs and broader workforce opportunities.""

“This investment would not have happened without President Biden and Congressional Democrats’ strong commitment to rebuilding and renewing America,” Blumenauer said. “The I-5 bridge is a critical link for people and commerce and must be replaced to withstand a significant earthquake. It gets us a step closer to connecting Portland and Vancouver with light rail and safe pedestrian and cycling lanes – investments that will make a real difference for our climate.”

“The Interstate Bridge is an integral part of our regional economy and connects communities across the Columbia River,” said Bonamici. “I have long advocated for federal resources to update this bridge so it can provide a safe connection for commuters and transit well into the future. This funding is great news for the people of NW Oregon and our entire region.”

The $600 million for the Interstate Bridge project will go toward a seismically resilient replacement of the I-5 bridge over the Columbia River, connecting Vancouver, Washington to Portland, Oregon. The new bridge will include transit improvements such as additional light-rail transit service, enhanced zero-emission express bus service, and the expansion of active transportation networks.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-committee-advances-two-wyden-bills-key-to-oregons-future,Senate Committee Advances Two Wyden Bills Key to Oregon’s Future,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"One bill benefits Owyhee in Eastern Oregon; other bill reauthorizes signature Wyden legislation that’s secured nearly $4 billion for counties statewide

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today released the following statement applauding the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for advancing his Malheur Community Empowerment for the Owyhee Act (CEO Act) and his Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2023:

“The ENR Committee has advanced two of my bills key to Oregon’s future.

“The Malheur Community Empowerment for the Owyhee Act preserves both a treasured way of life and a treasured landscape. The bill helps our state’s ranchers and the small businesses in Eastern Oregon who call this breath-taking and nationally recognized area home. This legislation is the product of years of hard work with Malheur County ranchers, Tribes, conservationists and recreation lovers who all came together to develop what I believe should be a framework for conservation nationwide. It encapsulates a shared vision that leaves Eastern Oregon in effect as the CEO of one of America’s most spectacular landscapes.

“The Secure Rural Schools program has proven a vital lifeline for rural counties in Oregon and nationwide, but lapses in Congressional action leave counties dangling on an annual fiscal cliff. Reauthorizing the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act is critical and necessary to support education, road maintenance, forest and watershed health, fire prevention, search and rescue, and other essential services in rural communities.

“Today’s action brings my two bills closer to full Senate consideration. I applaud my colleagues on the ENR committee for their partnership and hard work to get us here.”

The Malheur Community Empowerment for the Owyhee Act would preserve the Owyhee and introduce more flexibility into the established grazing management system. The legislation is informed by Eastern Oregon ranchers, tribes and environmental organizations convened by Wyden.

The Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2023 would continue investment in rural communities across Oregon and the nation for essential services such as education, road maintenance, search and rescue, wildfire prevention and watershed restoration. Since Wyden first authored the program in 2000, Secure Rural Schools has provided nearly $4 billion to Oregon counties. To preserve this vital lifeline for rural communities, Secure Rural Schools must be reauthorized in fiscal year 2024.

Both bills now move to the full Senate for consideration.

Watch a video of Wyden’s remarks here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-and-merkley-introduce-legislation-to-end-voter-suppression-by-unreasonably-long-lines,Wyden and Merkley Introduce Legislation to End Voter Suppression by Unreasonably Long Lines,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"POLL Act Ends Long Lines and Ensures Every Voter Can Cast a Ballot in 30 Minutes

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., today introduced legislation that would end hours-long lines at polling places that suppress hundreds of thousands of votes, and restore Americans’ constitutional rights to vote in free and fair elections.

“Oregonians are fortunate to have the option to vote at home, but many other voters nationwide lack that opportunity and shouldn’t be effectively cut off from the ballot box by lines that leave them on their feet for hours on end. Everyone has a right to make their voice count in our democracy,” Wyden said. “Making voting easy shouldn’t be a partisan issue. It’s time to pass the POLL Act to end lengthy lines and empower voters to make their voices heard at the ballot box.”

“Forcing people to wait in long lines to vote is a discriminatory tool used to manipulate elections by preventing citizens from voting. Nobody should have to spend hours upon hours away from work, school, and other responsibilities and obligations to exercise their constitutional rights,” said Merkley. “If we believe in the freedom to vote and democracy, let's make sure staffing and equipment are distributed equitably so nobody has to wait more than 30 minutes to vote.”

Data from the 2020 election showed that nearly one-in-five in-person voters waited more than 30 minutes to vote and casting a vote typically took longer in poorer, less white neighborhoods than it did in whiter and more affluent ones.

The People Over Long Lines (POLL) Act would require state and local governments to end these forms of voter suppression. The bill requires states to file public plans detailing how they will ensure voters can cast ballots with waiting times of less than 30 minutes and require audits by the Election Assistance Commission to determine how many voters face longer waits. The bill includes $500 million to help states reduce voter wait times.

The POLL Act would also create a private right of action of $50 for voters forced to wait for longer than 30 minutes, with an additional $50 for every hour after that. Penalties would increase if a court determines long lines were the result of intentional voter suppression or reckless disregard for election plans. Successful plaintiffs would also be entitled to court costs.

It is supported by leading voting rights groups, including: Stand Up America, Fair Fight Action, End Citizens United // Let America Vote Action Fund, League of Minority Voters, and GALEO Impact Fund.

Statements of Support

Tiffany Muller, President, End Citizens United and Let America Vote Action Fund: “Forcing Americans to stand in long lines to vote is an anti-voter tactic deployed by power-hungry politicians to dissuade people from making their voices heard––specifically communities of color. The People Over Long Lines Act would end illegal practices and intimidation tactics that are designed to prevent voters from participating in their democracy. We applaud Senator Wyden for his continued leadership on this issue and encourage the Senate to make this a bipartisan priority.”

Tishan Weerasooriya, Senior Associate for Policy & Political Affairs, Stand Up America: “Every election, too many voters, especially those in low-income and majority-Black communities, face long lines, ballot shortages, and other barriers to casting their ballots. Ensuring polling locations are adequately staffed and resourced and wait times are reduced to no longer than 30 minutes is vital to protecting Americans’ freedom to vote. Stand Up America thanks Senator Wyden for introducing the POLL Act, and we look forward to advocating for its swift passage into law,”

Priyanka Sharma, President and Founder, Promise King, and Co-chair, League of Minority Voters: “We enthusiastically support the POLL Act as it aims to increase access to the voting process. Increased access to voting options and ease of voting are key to achieving a representative democracy that reflects our country’s diversity. League of Minority Voters is committed to inclusion of different perspectives and voices in the electoral process and working towards a more vibrant and robust democracy.”

The text of the bill is here.

Wyden has been a national leader in the fight to make voting more accessible and secure. This year, Wyden introduced legislation to ensure American voters can vote more conveniently and securely at home and legislation to expand youth access to voting.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-urge-federal-agencies-to-boost-public-food-and-agriculture-research-funding-in-fiscal-year-2025,"Wyden, Colleagues Urge Federal Agencies to Boost Public Food and Agriculture Research Funding in Fiscal Year 2025",2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"In a letter to USDA and OMB, senators call on agency leaders to increase USDA research funding by at least five percent, plus inflation

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he’s joined Senate colleagues to urge top federal officials to increase the Department of Agriculture’s research budget by at least five percent, plus inflation, for Fiscal Year 2025.

“As the President’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 budget request is prepared, we request that an increase of at least five percent, plus inflation, above the FY 2024 funding levels proposed by the Senate, be provided across the board for all USDA research activities underway within the Agricultural Research Service, National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the Economic Research Service, and the National Agricultural Statistics Service,” the senators wrote in the letter to Agriculture Secretary Thomas Vilsack and Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young.

In their letter, the senators emphasized the importance of public funding for food and agriculture research as it ensures the United States remains competitive globally.

“Between 2008 and 2013, however, public investments in food and agricultural research dropped by 20 percent in inflation-adjusted terms, while the contributions by large private-sector corporations have increased by 64 percent over the same period… The public sector can pursue research into subjects and specialties that the private sector cannot or will not,” wrote the Senators. “Open-access research helps to increase the pace of discoveries …. by some estimates ranging between a 20 to 60 percent rate of return.”

The senators also wrote that this increased funding would prepare the food and agricultural sector for future challenges including global population growth, sustainability, changing weather patterns, and plant and animal diseases.

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.). Along with Wyden, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-introduce-legislation-to-mandate-civil-rights-offices-in-federal-agencies-that-handle-artificial-intelligence,"Wyden, Merkley Introduce Legislation to Mandate Civil Rights Offices in Federal Agencies that Handle Artificial Intelligence",2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they have joined Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) to introduce the Eliminating Bias in Algorithmic Systems (BIAS) Act to ensure that every federal agency that uses, funds, or oversees artificial intelligence has an office of civil rights focused on combating AI bias and discrimination, among other harms.

“There is no place for racial and ethnic bias in Oregon and across the nation, and that same mindset must apply to technology,” said Wyden. “As technology takes its next huge leap with artificial intelligence, it is absolutely fundamental that it is developed with no danger that it’s misused to discriminate against any person or group.”

“Algorithms play a significant role in the way society interacts and behaves every single day, whether we like it or not,” said Senator Merkley. “Because we know AI has the potential to exacerbate discrimination and inequality, federal agencies that employ the use of AI must have safeguards and boundaries in place to combat discrimination and bias.”

Wyden and Merkley said the legislation would also require every civil rights office to report their efforts to Congress and provide recommendations for congressional action.

Many federal agencies lack civil rights offices whose principal mission is to protect vulnerable communities across the United States. There are only 30 civil rights offices within the federal government, yet many are not required to secure staff with the expertise needed to advise the agency on algorithmic bias and discrimination.

The legislation was led by Markey. Along with Wyden and Merkley, the bill also was co-sponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-over-36-million-for-safer-streets-heading-to-marion-umatilla-and-clackamas-counties,"Merkley, Wyden: Over $3.6 Million for Safer Streets heading to Marion, Umatilla, and Clackamas Counties",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced a total of $3,669,840 in federal funding heading to three Oregon counties to develop and update comprehensive road and street safety plans.

“Whether walking, driving, or biking, Oregonians in every corner of the state deserve safe streets in their communities to get where they need to go,” said Merkley. “These investments will transform Oregon’s roadways in Marion, Umatilla, and Clackamas counties into safer places for bicyclists, pedestrians, and drivers. I will continue working to ensure every Oregonian is able to move about their daily lives conveniently, without fear of accident or injury.”

“Oregonians deserve to be safe on our streets no matter whether they’re on foot, on a bike or in a car,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified this federal investment will help ensure safer roadways in Clackamas, Marion and Umatilla counties, and I’ll keep battling for similar community livability resources in every corner of the state.”

These plans will integrate equity and community engagement and align with the requirements for the action plan in the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program, which was created under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Safe Streets and Roads for All awards can be found below:

$2.8 million to the City of Salem to update its existing Vision Zero Plan to meet SS4A Action Plan requirements by installing 20 MPH signs on residential streets, acquiring speed radar trailers and signs, and piloting an associated education campaign. This pilot demonstration activity will provide valuable data on the effectiveness of speed limit reductions in residential areas.

$539,840 to Umatilla County to update the City of Umatilla and Umatilla County’s comprehensive action plan.

$330,000 to Clackamas County to update the county’s existing Transportation Safety Action Plan to integrate equity and community engagement and align the plan with the SS4A Action Plan requirements.

“We’ve been lobbying our state and federal partners and hoping that something like this would come through. Keeping our streets safe to bike on, walk on, and drive on is a huge issue for every growing city. This is going to be a tremendous help in saving the lives of our residents,” said Mayor Chris Hoy, City of Salem.

""We are grateful, once again, for the advocacy and hard work from Senators Merkley and Wyden to ensure the safety of all Oregonians and our visitors who use our roadways. It was the efforts of Senators Merkley and Wyden that largely lead the way of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) that established the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program that gave us this opportunity to apply. These funds will bring us closer to reaching the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Roadway Safety Strategy to reduce or eliminate roadway deaths through a Safe System Approach. We are also excited at the opportunity to work collaboratively with Umatilla County, once again, through our complementary projects. The County's Asset Management & Real-Time Transportation Situational Awareness System initiative will focus on all transportation systems in the unincorporated areas of the County, while the City of Umatilla's Action Plan will focus specifically on the needs and priorities within City limits. The result will be a large step forward for our collaborative populations towards making our respective transportation systems safer for all. Both the City and County are committed to coordinating these development efforts in the region to increase the effectiveness and safety of our roads; an effort that was unlikely to be made possible without the assistance of the SS4A funds,” said City Manager, David Stockdale, City of Umatilla.

“Clackamas County is proud to be the first county in the US to have adopted a Transportation Safety Action Plan with a goal to reduce and eventually eliminate fatal and serious injury crashes,” said Chair Tootie Smith, Clackamas County. “This Safe Streets for All grant will help the County enhance this important work to create safer roads in our rural and suburban communities alike.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-lead-bipartisan-push-for-clear-guidance-on-the-new-free-application-for-federal-student-aid,"Wyden, Colleagues Lead Bipartisan Push for Clear Guidance on the New Free Application for Federal Student Aid",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he’s joined Senate colleagues from both parties to urge federal officials to provide clear guidance and communication to students, families, educators, college access counselors, and schools leading up to and after the release of the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The redesigned FAFSA will make it easier for students to get financial aid and help 1.5 million more students access the maximum Pell Grant award.

“We understand that overhauling the current application and reconfiguring the federal student aid system requires significant time, preparation, and resources. However, despite a one-year delay in the implementation process, the Department recently announced the new FAFSA will be available to students by December 31, 2023, with no indication of an actual date,” the senators wrote in a letter to the federal Department of Education.

“Further, the Department’s latest announcement also revealed that processing delays will take place in the first few months of 2024, meaning that schools will not be able to generate financial aid offers for their students in a timely fashion,” the senators wrote. “While the simplified FAFSA is meant to provide more students with federal student aid, we fear the most vulnerable students will be negatively impacted by these delays.”

The lawmakers wrote, “FAFSA delays can be particularly burdensome for students who lack reliable broadband access, students in foster care, students experiencing homelessness, first-generation students, students experiencing financial insecurity, and so many more.”

The letter was led by Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Charles E. Grassley (R-Iowa) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.). Along with Wyden, the letter is signed by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Conn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Bob Casey (D-PA), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-M.M.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.).

The letter is endorsed by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA), National College Attainment Network (NCAN), and SchoolHouse Connection.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-and-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-reduce-foam-container-pollution,"Wyden, Merkley and Colleagues Introduce Bill to Reduce Foam Container Pollution",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they have joined Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland to introduce legislation that would phase out single-use plastic foam food service products, “loose fill” such as packing peanuts, and non-medical disposable coolers – materials known to harm human health and pollute waterways.

The Farewell to Foam Act they introduced along with Senate and House colleagues would reduce plastic foam pollution nationwide by requiring food service providers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to transition their stock of expanded polystyrene products such as foodware, coolers, and loose packing fill to alternative materials by January 1, 2026.

“Communities in Oregon and across the nation suffer from the effects of pollution, and eliminating one of the contributors from single use plastic foam containers is a major step in improving public health,“ Wyden said. “There are plenty of sustainable alternatives that can replace single-use foam containers. Switching would benefit our communities and help tackle climate change at the same time.”

“This single-use, dangerous plastic foam product is not recyclable, not biodegradable, and pollutes our planet – but also is known to cause increased rates of cancer and disrupt the human endocrine system,” said Merkley, who this year led the Senate’s first ever hearings on plastics. “Single-use plastics are a human health crisis, a crisis that can be solved by producing and using more sustainable alternatives.”

The bill also would authorize the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to impose escalating penalties on establishments that violate the expanded polystyrene prohibition during one calendar year: $250 for the first violation, $500 for the second, and $1,000 for the third and subsequent violations. Service providers and retailers with annual revenue less than $1 million and manufacturers and distributors with annual revenue less than $5 million will not be penalized more than once during any seven-day period. The legislation provides exemptions for expanded polystyrene material used for medical, industrial, or safety purposes.

The legislation was led by Senator Van Hollen, D-Md, and U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas. Along with Wyden and Merkley, the bill also was co-sponsored in the Senate by the U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Angus King, I-Maine, Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Peter Welch, D-Vt.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-reintroduces-legislation-to-boost-jobs-in-health-care,Wyden Reintroduces Legislation to Boost Jobs in Health Care,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced he reintroduced legislation that reauthorizes and modernizes the Health Profession Opportunity Grant program to help address health care shortages in Oregon and nationwide and create pathways to high quality, in-demand health care careers.

“Addressing the nation's health care worker shortage means helping struggling families with job opportunities,” said Wyden.""That’s why I’m proud to introduce legislation that would provide job training, child care, transportation and more to help low-income families in Oregon and nationwide begin well-paid careers as health professionals.”

The Pathways to Health Careers Act would help to address health care provider shortages, provide pathway to well-paid, in-demand career opportunities in health care.

Created by the Affordable Care Act in 2010, the Health Profession Opportunity Grant Program stands out among other job training approaches because of the mix of support services, career coaching, job placement, and post-employment training provided as part of the program. The program helps increase the number of qualified health professionals in rural, Tribal, and urban areas in need of more workers. The Health Profession Opportunity Grant Program expired in September 2021. The Pathways to Health Careers Act would reauthorize and modernize the program.

To date, the Health Profession Opportunity Grant Program has served over 60,000 participants in 32 programs across 23 states. The Pathways to Health Careers Act would restart and expand the Health Profession Opportunity Grant Program, providing $425 million to make the Health Profession Opportunity Grant available nationwide from FY2024 through FY2028 and includes set asides for Tribes and U.S. Territories.

Alongside Wyden the legislation was led by U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich, D-N.M. The bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Catherine Cortez-Masto, D-Nev., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., and Chris Murphy, D-Conn. U.S. Representative Danny Davis, D-Ill. led the legislation in the House.

The Pathways to Health Careers Act has been endorsed by Ascend at the Aspen Institute, Ascend at the Aspen Institute, Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions, Center for Law and Social Policy, and others.

A fact sheet is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-urges-senate-judiciary-committee-to-support-judge-amy-baggios-nomination,Wyden Urges Senate Judiciary Committee to Support Judge Amy Baggio’s Nomination,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Watch a video of Wyden deliver his remarks here

As prepared for delivery

Chairman Durbin, Ranking Member Graham, members of the committee, I’m very pleased to join you this morning to introduce Judge Amy Baggio, nominee for the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon.

Judge Baggio comes before the Committee today with extensive experience as both a jurist and a litigator. That experience includes four years on the bench as a judge with the Multnomah County Circuit Court, as well as 18 years practicing criminal defense. That includes a decade as a public defender, ensuring that defendants have counsel as is guaranteed under the Sixth Amendment. As a lawyer, she focused on especially complex cases and has argued before the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon as well as the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. In her career on the bench, she has presided over hundreds of civil and criminal matters and handled 42 trials, half of which were jury trials. Throughout her career as a judge, it is a testament to Judge Baggio’s fairness that she has never had any party, either the defense or prosecution, file a request for a different judge.

In addition to being fair, she has consistently demonstrated an ability to make thoughtful decisions that protect communities and their values. For example, in one case, she sentenced a man to 34 years in prison for disturbing crimes, including first degree sexual abuse. That sentence was more than five times as long as the 75 month sentence sought by defense counsel. Despite an appeal from the defense on multiple issues, her decisions in that case were ultimately affirmed. This is just one of many examples in a record that is proof positive of her dedication to the law and extraordinary competence in applying it.

I could go on and on about her judiciary accomplishments, but I also want to talk about Judge Baggio’s volunteer experience mentoring the next generation of judicial talent. As an attorney, Judge Baggio long served as a mentor for newer lawyers, and following her appointment to the bench, she continued this through her roles with mentorship programs at the Oregon State Bar and the Oregon Judicial Department. She also spent a number of years volunteering at an elementary school, providing support to help individual students with reading. This is evidence of the deep care she has for her community and the time and energy she commits to giving back to those both inside and outside of the legal community.

It’s clear why Judge Baggio advanced through a bipartisan judicial selection committee made up of a broad range of legal professionals that I established with Senator Merkley. That committee evaluated Judge Baggio’s qualifications and character and was obviously impressed. And it is no surprise that she received a unanimous “well qualified” rating from the American Bar Association. Her judicial temperament, evenhandedness, compassion, and dedication to the law will serve the District Court of Oregon well. I urge all members of this committee to support Judge Baggio’s nomination, and I will happily speak further with any member to help get her nomination approved.

Congratulations again to Judge Baggio on her nomination, and thank you again to Chairman Durbin and the committee for the opportunity to introduce her this morning.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-demands-federal-review-of-crater-lake-concessionaire-contract,Wyden Demands Federal Review of Crater Lake Concessionaire Contract,2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Senator: Aramark’s failure to live up to its contractual agreements threatens safety of world-renowned national park, its visitors and employees

Washington D.C.—U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he is asking federal officials to act immediately to prevent concessionaire mismanagement from continuing to pose safety risks to Crater Lake National Park, its visitors, and the employees who live and work at this world-renowned natural treasure in southern Oregon.

“The annual concessionaire assessments paint a troubling picture of the concessionaire’s fulfillment of its important responsibilities at Crater Lake National Park over several years,” Wyden wrote in a letter to National Park Service Director Charles F. “Chuck” Sams III,. “The National Park Service records make it clear that the concessionaire has continually failed to fulfill the requirements of the contract.”

In his letter, Wyden wrote that Aramark – doing business as Crater Lake Hospitality – has failed under its concessionaire contract with the National Park Service to perform contractually required maintenance and has created unsafe living conditions for staff.

Wyden’s letter also cited diesel spills at contractor-managed facilities, malfunctioning fire alarm systems and unsatisfactory public health inspections. And it noted the lack of investment and deferred maintenance by the concessionaire has prevented progress on a number of maintenance and improvement projects that the National Park Service has approved.

“After becoming aware of these issues, I directed my staff to conduct an in-person assessment of the conditions at facilities within Crater Lake National Park,” Wyden wrote. “The issues that staff observed during this visit have only served to solidify my understanding of the seriousness of the concessionaire’s failure to plan for and perform important regular maintenance, adequately train staff and address issues that directly threaten safety. “

“It was apparent to my staff that the dedicated National Park Service staff were spending hours of their time trying to manage the situation, are deeply concerned with the safety issues for guests and employees, and share our values of protecting the park,” he wrote. “I am grateful to the National Park Service staff for their dedication to our public lands. It is clear they have prevented the situation from becoming significantly worse through their efforts.

“Despite repeated and documented attempts by the National Park Service to secure performance, it is clear that little progress has been achieved to meaningfully resolve most of these serious issues,” Wyden wrote.

The entire letter is here.

Related Files",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-votes-against-reauthorizing-warrantless-surveillance-as-part-of-massive-military-policy-bill,Wyden Votes Against Reauthorizing Warrantless Surveillance as Part of Massive Military Policy Bill,2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., opposed reauthorizing warrantless government surveillance of Americans as part of the National Defence Authorization Act (NDAA), in a procedural vote today.

A four-month extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act was added to the NDAA without a vote or debate. Wyden and bipartisan members of Congress have pushed for years to reform that surveillance authority, which has been abused to allow warrantless searches for a U.S. Senator, a member of Congress, and a state court judge, among others.

“Americans know they don’t have to sacrifice their liberty to have security. They want policies that give them both, debated in the light of day,” Wyden said. “I cannot support reauthorizing warrantless surveillance of Americans’ communications without significant reforms and improvements to protect the Constitutional rights of people in Oregon and across the nation. I have introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to reauthorize this surveillance authority with significant new protections for Americans’ rights.”

Although Wyden voted against the NDAA today, he supports a number of provisions within the massive military policy bill. He praised the inclusion of $105 million for an Oregon National Guard special tactics complex in Portland and readiness center in Washington County ($7.5 million more than was included in an earlier version of the bill), as well as a 5.2% pay increase for servicemembers - the largest military pay raise in 20 years.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-seeks-answers-from-justice-department-on-alleged-surveillance-of-apple-and-google-mobile-push-notifications,Wyden Seeks Answers from Justice Department On Alleged Surveillance of Apple and Google Mobile Push Notifications,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., asked the Department of Justice to allow Apple and Google to be more transparent about alleged surveillance of mobile push notifications.

Wyden began investigating possible surveillance of push notification records after receiving a tip that foreign governments had requested such records from Google and Apple. According to the companies, the information they provided Wyden about this practice is restricted from public release by the U.S. government.

“Apple and Google should be permitted to be transparent about the legal demands they receive, particularly from foreign governments, just as the companies regularly notify users about other types of government demands for data,” Wyden wrote, in a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland. “These companies should be permitted to generally reveal whether they have been compelled to facilitate this surveillance practice, to publish aggregate statistics about the number of demands they receive, and unless temporarily gagged by a court, to notify specific customers about demands for their data.”

Push notifications are alerts sent by phone apps to users' smartphones. These alerts pass through a digital post office run by the phone operating system provider - overwhelmingly Apple or Google. Because of that structure, the two companies have visibility into how their customers use apps and could be compelled to provide this information to U.S. or foreign governments.

Read the full letter to the Justice Department here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-statement-on-supplemental-funding-vote,Wyden Statement on Supplemental Funding Vote,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Funding Package for Israel, Ukraine, and Border Security Fails on Procedural Vote Due to Republican Opposition

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., lambasted Senate Republicans after they voted down a supplemental funding bill that included aid to Israel and funding for border security this afternoon.

“Republicans chose to play politics with aid to Israel at the very moment it faces an existential threat,” Wyden said. “Craven is not a strong enough word to describe their actions.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-sullivan-applaud-senate-passage-of-resolution-celebrating-usphs-commissioned-corps-officers,"Wyden, Sullivan Applaud Senate Passage of Resolution Celebrating USPHS Commissioned Corps Officers",2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, today applauded the passage of their resolution commending the officers of the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) for 225 years of work protecting, promoting, and advancing the health and safety of the United States.

""For 225 years, officers of the USPHS Commissioned Corps have honorably served and safeguarded our nation's public health— particularly during times of public health emergencies,"" Wyden said. ""Through their commendable efforts in disease prevention, biomedical research, healthcare and various other initiatives, USPHS officers have played a pivotal role in maintaining the health of our country. I’m especially grateful for their dedication to serving underserved and vulnerable populations. I’m glad the Senate has passed our resolution recognizing the invaluable contributions of USPHS officers and I’ll continue fighting to ensure they have the resources they need to continue their work for generations to come.""

“The Public Health Service Commissioned Corps play a critical role in providing health services to Alaska’s most rural communities,” Sullivan said. “Alaska’s vast, rugged geography and remote communities can make it difficult to access health care, and the Commission Corps have stepped up to the plate. Many of the Commissioned Corps in Alaska serve as our dentists, our nurses, and researchers in our cities and our rural communities. We applaud their commitment to ensuring underserved communities can access health services.”

The USPHS Commissioned Corps is one of the nation’s uniformed services — a branch committed to the service of health. For 225 years, USPHS Commissioned Corps Officers have advanced our nation’s public health, serving in agencies across the government, as physicians, nurses, dentists, veterinarians, scientists, engineers and other professionals. USPHS is the only uniformed service in the world solely dedicated to public health.

Jacqueline Rychnovsky, Executive Director, The Commissioned Officers Association of the USPHS: “The U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) has stood the test of time by responding to the largest public health crises in history. COA congratulates the USPHS on this milestone and looks forward to the impact the USPHS will have in the future. COA thanks Senator Wyden for amplifying the service and sacrifice of the USPHS and its Commissioned Corps, which often does not receive the recognition it deserves.""

The text of the resolution is here.

In July, Wyden introduced legislation that would authorize dedicated annual funding to the USPHS Commissioned Corps. The USPHS is the only uniformed service without a budget line item dedicated to service operations and maintenance. Establishing a budget line item for service operations and readiness is vital to ensure a fully-deployable national public health asset.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-hoyle-announce-over-5-million-for-coastal-fish-habitat-restoration,"Merkley, Wyden, Hoyle Announce Over $5 Million for Coastal Fish Habitat Restoration",2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04), announced a total of nearly $5.5 million in federal investments is heading to Oregon organizations for coastal climate resilience projects and restoring fish habitats. The funding comes from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s National Coastal Resilience Fund, which supports the design and implementation of projects around the country to enhance the resilience of coastal communities and improve habitat for fish and wildlife.

“Our waterways and fish are the lifeblood of the Northwest, particularly coastal communities,” said Merkley. “This critical federal support will prepare our region to better withstand more frequent extreme weather events caused by climate chaos. These projects will help strengthen natural infrastructure while also enhancing habitat for fish populations, including our beloved coho salmon and other native fish species.”

“Protecting Oregon’s coastal wetlands, floodplains and estuaries not only helps fight the devastating effects of climate change, but also helps increase resiliency of coastal communities against extreme weather,” Wyden said. “This investment is a big win for Oregon’s coastal communities, and I will continue to support successful programs proven to help protect and restore our bountiful coastal habitat.”

“I’m glad to see federal funding supporting the Wild Salmon Center and the McKenzie River Trust’s work to restore and protect estuaries and wetlands on the Oregon Coast,” said Rep. Hoyle. “These projects on the Alsea, Coos, Siletz, and Siuslaw rivers in Oregon’s Fourth Congressional District will reduce flood risk for coastal communities and increase habitat for salmon and other native fish species. This is a prime example of how we can effectively support coastal resilience and preserve Oregon’s natural beauty as we combat the challenges of climate change.”

“We are honored and thrilled to have received this grant award from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. These funds will support estuary restoration projects that build on two decades of effort by partners at Ecotrust, the Siuslaw Watershed Council, the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians, the state of Oregon, federal agencies, and many dedicated local community members. They set in motion a Siuslaw Whole Watershed Restoration initiative in 2004, something that gave us all a road map for effective land and water conservation. Congressional support for integrating this work with investments for community infrastructure and resilience shows the wisdom and importance of such long-term, broad scale approaches, especially in the face of a changing climate,” said Joe Moll, Executive Director, McKenzie River Trust.

""Wild Salmon Center and our local partners at the Coos Watershed Association and the Siuslaw Watershed Council are thrilled to receive this grant award from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. These funds will support projects that will reconnect floodplains, which are vital for our threatened salmon populations, while at the same time mitigating risks associated with climate change. This dual approach of species conservation, paired with climate change resilience, will positively benefit both fish and human communities. We are grateful for all the support from Oregon’s congressional members and look forward to implementing these projects over the next three years,” said Tim Elder, Southwest Oregon Manager, Wild Salmon Center.

Oregon project descriptions and award amounts are below:

$3,791,657.49: Wild Salmon Center – Florence and Coos Bay, OR

Extreme weather events threaten human lives and infrastructure, public and private properties, and ecosystems due to the increased severity and frequency of storms. Wild Salmon Center will increase climate resilience in the Coos and Siuslaw watersheds through nine restoration projects that will result in 257.5 acres of restored floodplain and 7.47 miles of restored instream habitat. The project will reduce flood hazards in coastal communities by reducing peak flows and slowing water velocities, improve water retention and quality, and recover economically vital salmon populations.

$1,012,692.18: McKenzie River Trust – Siuslaw River’s estuary and watershed near Florence, Oregon

Coastal communities and habitats are under increasing threats from coastal hazards, such as sea level rise, storm intensification, and other environmental stressors. The McKenzie River Trust will advance final design and permitting to restore the tidal exchange within the currently flow-restricted areas on four properties in the Siuslaw River’s estuary, increasing the availability and protection of vital rearing and feeding habitat for coho salmon and other native fish species. The project will finalize designs to restore a total of 500 acres over the next four years that will enhance the estuary’s ability to absorb the increased sea level impact of storm swells, king tides, and flooding.

$651,021.88: Wild Salmon Center – Nehalem, Lincoln City, Waldport, and Alsea, Oregon

Flood hazards pose a serious risk to urban areas, emergency road infrastructure, and vulnerable rural communities on the Oregon coast. Coastal resiliency to sea level rise and climate change depends upon conserving estuaries and wetlands through restoration of key ecological processes and functions including hydrological connectivity, nutrient cycling, and sediment transport. Wild Salmon Center will create final designs and secure permitting for five wetland systems across three watersheds in Nehalem, Siletz, and Alsea estuaries on the Oregon coast. The project will result in fully designed plans for 249 acres of floodwater storage, seven fish passage improvements across four miles of stream, and the restoration of 30 freshwater wetland acres and 219 acres of tidal wetlands to mitigate flood hazards, reduce erosion, and restore habitat for salmon.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-over-900000-coming-to-the-confederated-tribes-of-the-umatilla-indian-reservation-for-recycling-programs,"Merkley, Wyden Announce Over $900,000 Coming to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation for Recycling Programs",2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is awarding the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) $915,895 for projects to update and improve the Tribes’ recycling plan, and to focus on practical recycling options that center culturally grounded approaches.

“This critical funding for CTUIR will help ensure the Tribe has the resources it needs to implement its new and improved recycling plan,” said Merkley. “This is an environmental win for the CTUIR community that comes at a critical time for our planet.”

“This federal investment in the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation will help the Tribes to move forward with a modern and broader approach to recycling,” Wyden said. “I know from my town hall there earlier this year how hard Tribal members are working to build an even stronger community, and I’m glad the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is providing this grant to help achieve that goal.”

In his role as the Senate Chair of the Environment and Public Works subcommittee overseeing environmental justice and chemical safety, Merkley has been holding a series of hearings investigating plastic production and pollution, one of which has examined reuse and refill systems.

The grant is funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will be used to replace and upgrade recycling equipment, and expand markets for recycled commodities through Tribal community education and recycled materials management.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-central-oregon-organization-earns-300000-federal-grant-to-fight-human-trafficking,"Wyden, Merkley: Central Oregon Organization Earns $300,000 Federal Grant to Fight Human Trafficking",2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that J Bar J Youth Services in Bend has secured a $300,000 federal grant to battle human trafficking.

“The crime of human trafficking devastates lives and demands a serious and substantive effort to end it in Oregon and nationwide,” Wyden said. ”I’m gratified that J Bar J Youth Services has earned these federal resources to fight this scourge in Central Oregon with its local expertise and hard-working staff.”

“We must do everything in our power to protect people from the horrors of human trafficking,” Merkley said. “This essential funding to J Bar J Youth Services will help ensure this critically important organization can continue to support youth in Central Oregon and protect Oregonians from dangerous situations.”

The $300,000 for J Bar J Youth Services from the federal Administration for Children and Families will fund anti-trafficking efforts for domestic victims.

“The at:project is grateful to have received this funding opportunity,” said Breanne Barrett, Program Director for the at:project -- a program of J Bar J Youth Services. “This grant will allow us to extend and enhance crucial services to victims and survivors of human trafficking in Central Oregon. From crisis intervention services to long-term case management, the at:project is committed to supporting survivors through their healing journey. This funding is not just a financial boost; it’s a lifeline for those who need it most. It fuels our passion, determination and commitment to creating a community free of exploitation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-hoyle-announce-833000-to-osu-to-support-oregon-food-safety-outreach,"Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle Announce $833,000 to OSU to Support Oregon Food Safety Outreach",2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley with U.S. Representative Val Hoyle today announced a federal investment of $833,127 for Oregon State University to develop food safety outreach programs.

“Underserved communities in Oregon and across the nation deserve to know their food is both nutritious and safe to eat,” Wyden said. “This federal investment in Oregon State University and its world-class researchers will help ensure those goals by promoting outreach and education while preserving the traditional practices of Tribal and coastal communities.”

“Oregon-grown products are healthy, fresh, and support our local communities and state economy,” said Merkley. “This crucial funding will ensure small to mid-sized farmers are able to access food safety training and education programs from community-based organizations – including safe, traditional Tribal practices – in order to provide Oregonians with healthy and safe food grown in the region.”

“I am delighted that Oregon State University (OSU) received two federal grants from the USDA to support food safety education and outreach,” said Rep. Hoyle. “These grants will specifically support Pacific Island communities and Oregon-based Tribal communities in their collaborative partnerships with OSU on culturally appropriate food safety practices and technical assistance. This grant is a testament to OSU’s expertise and commitment to supporting communities through their research and outreach.”

The funding to OSU, from the USDA National Institute for Food and Agriculture, includes investment for culturally responsive food safety education in Oregon’s tribal communities and for sharing safe methods of processing and preservation for traditional foods. Also included is investment to engage underserved Pacific communities in food safety education and training to address common food safety issues.

“Preserving seasonal foods has been a central part of the food culture of Indigenous people in Oregon since time immemorial, but new technologies and foods have introduced unique food safety risks,” said Jared Hibbard-Swanson, Food Safety and Program Manager with Oregon State University Extension Family and Community Health Program. “I am excited that this federal investment will enable OSU Extension and Tribal communities to work together to establish and teach safe methods for preserving culturally significant foods.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-nsa-must-answer-whether-it-is-buying-americans-location-data-and-web-browsing-records-before-new-director-is-confirmed,Wyden: NSA Must Answer Whether it is Buying Americans’ Location Data and Web Browsing Records Before New Director Is Confirmed,2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Wyden Places Hold on Nomination of Lt. Gen. Timothy Haugh Until NSA Answers Basic Questions About Purchases of Americans’ Data

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., announced he will place a hold on the nomination of Lt. Gen. Timothy Haugh to serve as director of the National Security Agency (NSA) until the NSA discloses whether it is buying Americans’ location data and web browsing records.

In a statement placed in the Congressional record this afternoon, Wyden said the Defense Department has refused to make public important information about purchases of Americans’ personal data — information that the government has already acknowledged is not classified.

“The American people have a right to know whether the NSA is conducting warrantless domestic surveillance of Americans in a manner that circumvents the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution,” he said, in a statement placed in the Congressional Record. “Particularly as Congress is currently debating extending Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, Congress must be able to have an informed public debate about the scope of the NSA’s warrantless surveillance of Americans.”

Wyden is the longest-serving member of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a staunch advocate for protecting the security of Americans without sacrificing their Constitutional rights. He first asked for information about DOD data purchases to be released in 2021, but the department refused to release it, even though the answer is not classified.

Wyden did not raise objections to Lt. Gen. Haugh’s qualifications in his hold statement. A hold is a Senate procedure that prevents shortcuts to speed up consideration of a nominee. It can be overcome by a procedural vote.

The full statement for the Congressional Record is below:

Mr. WYDEN. Madam President, I must regretfully object to the promotion of Lt. Gen. Timothy Haugh to the grade of general, and consequently, to be the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander of U.S. Cyber Command.

In January of 2021, I made public an unclassified memo I received from the Defense Intelligence Agency revealing that it was purchasing, retaining, and using location data revealing the movements of Americans. After receiving that information, I pressed the Department of Defense to identify which other agencies within the Department are buying Americans’ personal data, including location data and web browsing records.

The Department provided me with that information in March of 2021, but marked the information “Controlled Unclassified Information” (CUI) — a made-up designation with no basis in law. The Administration is abusing the C-U-I designation to keep this unclassified information from the American public. In May of 2021, I wrote to Secretary of Defense Austin to urge him to remove the restrictions on that information, so that the American people can be told which agencies are buying their information without court oversight, and so that Congress can conduct appropriate oversight. In August of 2021, I received a response letter from the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security, declining to clear the information for public release.

In connection with Lt. Gen. Haugh’s pending promotion to lead the NSA, I narrowed my request. I asked that the American people simply be provided yes or no answers as to whether the NSA is buying their location data and web browsing records. Unfortunately, intelligence officials have been unwilling to release even that basic information.

The American people have a right to know whether the NSA is conducting warrantless domestic surveillance of Americans in a manner that circumvents the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution. Particularly as Congress is currently debating extending Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, Congress must be able to have an informed public debate about the scope of the NSA’s warrantless surveillance of Americans.

Until the NSA publicly releases the information described above, I must object to the Senate proceeding with the Haugh nomination.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-500000-to-harney-country-for-brownfield-cleanup,"Merkley, Wyden: $500,000 to Harney County for Brownfield Cleanup",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced Harney County has received $500,000 from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to clean up hazardous materials at the two-acre former Lincoln School site in Burns.

“This funding is a major win for Harney County’s natural resources, community member’s health, and the local economy,” said Merkley. “Redeveloping Brownfield sites ignites growth in communities, revitalizes properties long forgotten, and most importantly, creates jobs.”

“This federal investment in Burns will convert an old brownfield into bright new job opportunities and more for this rural community,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified Harney County has secured these federal funds, and will keep working to secure similar resources that help build an even stronger economy and quality of life for all of Eastern Oregon.”

The EPA announced $8,240,000 to expedite the assessment and cleanup of seven brownfield sites in Oregon, of which Harney County was one.

Background:

EPA’s Brownfields Program began in 1995 and has provided nearly $2.37 billion in Brownfield Grants to assess and clean up contaminated properties and return blighted properties to productive reuse. EPA’s investments in addressing brownfield sites have leveraged more than $36 billion in cleanup and redevelopment. Over the years, the relatively small investment of federal funding has leveraged, from both public and private sources, nearly 260,000 jobs. Communities that previously received Brownfields Grants used these resources to fund assessments and cleanups of brownfields, and successfully leverage an average of 10.6 jobs per $100,000 of EPA Brownfield Grant funds spent and $19.78 for every dollar.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-address-rise-in-attacks-on-postal-workers,"Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Address Rise in Attacks on Postal Workers",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden and Senate colleagues today introduced bipartisan legislation that would address the steep increase in armed robberies against postal workers, who are often targeted for their arrow keys that allow access to some mailboxes and their contents.

“For over 200 years the United States Postal Service has been a central fixture of the American government. The recent cases of mail theft and the alarming uptick in assaults against postal workers is unacceptable,” Wyden said. “If Postmaster DeJoy refuses to act, Congress must do everything it can to improve protections for these essential workers.”

The Postal Inspection Service reports that armed robberies of letter carriers increased sharply between 2018 and 2021, rising fourfold from 36 incidents to 154 incidents. The arrow keys can command thousands of dollars on the clandestine market because they allow access to cluster mailboxes and their contents, which include Social Security checks, prescriptions, and other valuable items.

In 2020, under the leadership of Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, the U.S. Postal Service issued a directive that restricted Postal Police Officers to physical USPS properties. This directive has prevented Postal Police Officers from protecting the postal service and the integrity of the postal system outside physical postal properties. Prior to the 2006 Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act, which granted greater authority to USPS to control Postal Law enforcement, Congress regularly granted Postal Police Officers authority to carry out their duties both on and off USPS property through annual appropriations language. The Postal Police Reform Act of 2023 would counteract Postmaster General DeJoy’s 2020 directive and again allow Postal Police Officers to operate outside of Postal Service real property.

The Act would clarify provisions in federal law to ensure that Postal Police Officers may be assigned to duty outside of Postal Service real property, for the purpose of protecting the mail, Postal Service property, persons on Postal Service property, and on-duty Postal Service employees. This clarification will allow the Postal Service to assign Postal Police Officers to protect letter carriers against robberies, which are often committed to steal “arrow” master keys for use in later mail theft. The Postal Police Reform Act provides the Postal Service with the flexibility to use the Postal Police as the service needs, without imposing additional costs on the Postal Service.

The legislation was led by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin, D-Ill., and Susan Collins, R-Maine. Alongside Wyden, the bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Jerry Moran, R-Kan., Ben Cardin, D-Md., Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, John Hickenlooper, D-Colo., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Chris Coons, D-Del., Tim Kaine, D-Va., Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., and Angus King, I-Maine.

The Postal Police Reform Act has earned endorsements from the National Association of Postal Supervisors and the Postal Police Officers Association.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-and-colleagues-issue-joint-statement-on-proposed-threats-to-asylum-system-in-supplemental-aid-package-negotiations,"Wyden, Merkley and Colleagues issue Joint Statement on Proposed Threats to Asylum System in Supplemental Aid Package Negotiations",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley along with Senate colleagues today issued the following joint statement in response to reports of potentially harmful changes to the U.S. asylum system being considered in the ongoing bipartisan negotiations around the supplemental aid package:

“As negotiations surrounding the supplemental aid package progress, we are concerned about reports of harmful changes to our asylum system that will potentially deny lifesaving humanitarian protection for vulnerable people, including children, and fail to deliver any meaningful improvement to the situation at the border. Using a one-time spending package to enact these unrelated permanent policy changes sets a dangerous precedent and risks assistance to our international partners. Any proposal considering permanent changes to our asylum and immigration system needs to include a clear path to legalization for long-standing undocumented immigrants.

“We remain committed to working in good faith to modernize our outdated immigration system on a bipartisan basis and through a deliberative process. We cannot truly secure our border and help American communities without increasing lawful pathways for migration and legalizing long-time undocumented immigrants who put food on our tables, care for our elderly, and form the fabric of our communities.”

The joint statement was led by Senator Alex Padilla, D-Calif.. Along with Wyden and Merkley, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin, D-Ill., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Bob Menendez, D-N.J., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-over-4-million-for-water-conservation-projects-coming-to-oregon,"Merkley, Wyden Announce Over $4 Million for Water Conservation Projects Coming to Oregon",2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Interior Department investments heading to Crooked River Watershed and Deschutes Land Trust

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced a total of $4.1 million in federal investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are heading to the Crooked River Watershed Council and the Deschutes Land Trust. These funds will boost collaborative projects focusing on water conservation, management, and restoration efforts.

“Our waterways and fish are the lifeblood of the Northwest,” said Merkley. “I’ll continue to do all I can to ensure Oregon has the federal resources needed to carry out creative, forward-thinking projects that conserve water, restore healthy native fish populations, and stretch our water resources further.”

“These significant federal resources will help two standout Central Oregon organizations accomplish their crucial goals of conserving water and protecting habitat,” Wyden said. “That adds up to good news for Oregonians in the region who deserve both a dependable water supply and protection of the gifts from nature that make our state such a special place.”

The federal resources for these two projects are part of a $51 million overall investment from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda for 30 new Environmental Water Resource Projects in 11 Western states.

Oregon project descriptions are below:

$1,400,000 — Crooked River Watershed Council, Lower Crooked River Riparian, Floodplain, and Habitat Restoration Project

Hydrology in the Crooked River watershed is impacted by upstream dams, including the Bureau of Reclamation’s Bowman Dam, leading to loss of floodplain continuity, degraded channel structures, and water quality impairments, impacting native Spring Chinook Salmon and Columbia River Steelhead populations that inhabit the watershed. The Crooked River Watershed Council, working in partnership with the Ochoco Irrigation District, will restore habitat and enhance ecological features on two project sites just downstream from the city of Prineville.

$3,000,000 — Deschutes Land Trust, Ochoco Preserve Restoration - Phases 2 and 3

The Crooked River and Ochoco Creek waterways frequently experience low flows, elevated summer stream temperatures, and poor water quality. These issues are compounded by a lack of suitable habitats for both fish and terrestrial wildlife, and the impacts to river ecology of Reclamation’s Crooked River Project, including Bowman and Ochoco Dams. The Deschutes Land Trust, with support from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, will restore aquatic, floodplain, and upland habitat across 124 acres on the Ochoco Preserve, located in Crook County, Oregon, adjacent to the City of Prineville.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-bonamici-applaud-43-million-portland-business-contract-to-support-us-antarctic-program,"Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici Applaud $43 Million Portland Business Contract to Support U.S. Antarctic Program",2023-11-27,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley with U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici today welcomed the announcement that a Portland manufacturer secured a $43.5 million contract from the U.S. Army to develop equipment for research in the Antarctic.

The Portland manufacturer, Gunderson Marine, LLC, will design and build a steel pier barge to support operations at McMurdo Station for the National Science Foundation’s U.S. Antarctic Program.

“The Antarctic is one of the least explored regions in the world, and this contract between Gunderson Marine and the National Science Foundation matches a mainstay Portland business with cutting-edge scientific research,” Wyden said. “This good news means jobs locally and groundbreaking research globally.”

“From Northwest Portland to the South Pole, this partnership betweenGundersonMarineand the National Science Foundation will boost the local economy and lead to a greater understanding of one of the earth’s final frontiers,” Merkley said. “It’s exciting to see a longtime Oregon business take the helm on this opportunity to further critical research in Antarctica and beyond.”

“Oregon manufacturing companies are at the forefront of innovation. This new contract between Gunderson Marine and the National Science Foundation will support research in the Antarctic and advance the development of vessels equipped to handle the extreme conditions of the region,"" Bonamici said. “I had the opportunity to visit Antarctica with the National Science Foundation a number of years ago and know how important this research is to understanding our environment and world.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-usda-invests-228-million-to-expand-health-care-and-broadband-assistance-in-rural-oregon,"Wyden, Merkley: USDA Invests $2.28 Million to Expand Health Care and Broadband Assistance in Rural Oregon",2023-11-22,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Communities to benefit include Hood River, Wasco, Marion, Yamhill and Clatsop counties

Washington D.C.—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a federal investment of $2.28 million in rural telemedicine help for Clatsop, Hood River, Marion, Wasco, and Yamhill counties.

The funding, from USDA Rural Development, includes a first-in-the-nation Broadband Technical Assistance Program investment of $500,000 for Rural Prosperity Partners that will help address fundamental barriers faced by rural communities, giving Oregonians everywhere a fair shot at receiving state and federal broadband funding.

“The message from my town halls and other meetings throughout Oregon is clear – Rural communities need better access to healthcare and telehealth is a must to achieve that goal in rural parts of our state,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified these rural communities have earned these federal resources, and will keep battling to secure similar investments benefiting every nook and cranny of Oregon.”

“Oregon’s rural communities must continue to be a focus as we work to support access to all aspects of health care,” said Merkley. “These crucial investments across the state will ensure that folks living in more remote communities will have better access to behavioral health services, primary care, and dental care. I will keep working to ensure that these services reach Oregonians in every corner of the state.”

The USDA Rural Development’s 2023 distance learning and telemedicine grants include the following

One Community Health ($439,629): This investment will equip Hood River and Wasco Counties (and Klickitat County in Washington) with audio-visual and telehealth equipment that enable medical professionals at One Community Health in these counties to deliver diverse medical, behavioral health and dental telehealth treatment.

Santiam Memorial Hospital ($996,935): This will help equip one hub site in Multnomah County and one end-user site in rural Marion County with a virtual ICU program to increase the critical care available at Santiam Memorial Hospital in Stayton. About 35 fellowship-trained, board-certified critical care physicians, and 30 highly-skilled registered nurses certified in critical care from Oregon Science & Health University Hospital will provide support and consultation to the Santiam Hospital ICU clinicians and nursing staff whenever needed through on-demand, two-way video communication and patient monitoring.

Providence Health and Services ($347,347): This investment will help equip Yamhill, Hood River and Clatsop counties with specialized telemedicine equipment. Medical professionals with Providence Health and Services of Oregon in Multnomah County will support capacity at smaller rural hospitals with psychological/behavioral health evaluations, stroke evaluations, and neonatal distress evaluations and guidance.

In addition, $500,000 will be invested in the Broadband Technical Assistance Program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-protect-domestic-abuse-survivors-from-gun-violence,"Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect Domestic Abuse Survivors from Gun Violence",2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, Jeff Merkley and Senate colleagues today announced they introduced legislation that would prevent domestic violence abusers from buying firearms.

""The profound grief suffered by Nicolette's family is a tragedy no family should ever have to endure,” Wyden said. “Firearms must remain inaccessible to domestic violence abusers— lives should not be lost due to inexcusable loopholes these criminals take advantage of. Congress must help break the cycle of gun violence and act to avert future tragedies by passing the Nicolette Elias Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act.”

“Domestic abuse survivors have incredible strength and deserve peace of mind to know they will be protected when they escape abusive situations,” said Senator Merkley. “Ensuring abusers and violent offenders are barred from accessing firearms is the least we can do to protect the safety of both domestic abuse survivors and our broader communities.”

Federal law protects domestic violence survivors from gun violence by preventing their abusers from buying or having a firearm – but only once the court has issued a final restraining order. This leaves survivors unprotected exactly when they are in the most danger: when a domestic abuser first learns his or her victim has left and only an emergency restraining order is in place. Further, the definition of “intimate partner” used to prohibit respondents to restraining orders from buying or having a firearm includes spouses, former spouses, people with a child in common, and cohabitants. However, there are many survivors of dating violence who were never married, do not live with their abuser, and have no children.

The Lori Jackson – Nicolette Elias Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act would restrict those under emergency restraining orders from buying or having a firearm, and would extend protections to domestic violence survivors who have been abused by their dating partners.

The bill is named for two women who were both shot and killed by their abusive, estranged partners even after securing emergency restraining orders: Nicolette Elias from Portland, Oregon; and Lori Jackson from Oxford, Connecticut.

Nicolette Elias was a 46-year-old Portland mother of two young daughters who for years sought and secured restraining orders and temporary stalking orders against her estranged and abusive ex-husband. Despite all her attempts to protect herself and her daughters from a man who frequently threatened them and had access to firearms, in 2014, Nicolette was murdered by her former spouse in front of their children with a handgun that he refused to relinquish. He then forced their daughters out of the home, past their mother’s body, and kidnapped them, taking them to his own home. There, later that day, he took his own life, shooting himself in the chest in front of the police.

Lori Jackson was a 32-year-old mother of two who fled her home with her two children and filed for a restraining order to protect her family from her estranged husband. She moved in with her mother in Oxford, Connecticut, and the court granted her a temporary protective order while she waited for a hearing to obtain a permanent restraining order. The day before the hearing was scheduled, Lori's husband shot and killed her and injured her mother Merry Jackson using a gun he legally possessed because a permanent protective order was not yet in place.

The Lori Jackson – Nicolette Elias Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act would expand on a provision in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act that denies firearm sales to dating partners with misdemeanor domestic violence convictions – and not just abusers who had been married to, lived with, or had children with their victim.

The bill would also establish a new grant program to help state and local governments implement policies that keep firearms out of the hands of domestic violence perpetrators while they are subject to a temporary or emergency restraining order. These policies include: requiring a domestic violence abuser to surrender or sell any firearm or ammunition in their possession; revoking their permit or license to purchase, possess or carry a firearm or ammunition while the restraining order is in effect; and requiring that a background check to be performed before any firearm or ammunition is returned to the person subject to the restraining order.

Alongside Wyden, the legislation was led by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn. and U.S. Representative Jim Himes, D-Conn.

Alongside Merkley, the bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Bob Casey, D-Pa., Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., Patty Murray, D-Wis., Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., Mazie K. Hirono, D-Hawaii, Dick Durbin, D-Ill., John Fetterman, D-Pa., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., Tim Kaine, D-Va., Chris Coons, D-Del., Laphonza Butler, D-Calif., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., and Chris Murphy, D-Conn.

The legislation is endorsed by Everytown for Gun Safety, Brady, Giffords, March for Our Lives, Sandy Hook Promise, Newtown Action Alliance, National Network to End Domestic Violence, National Domestic Violence Hotline, National Resource Center on Domestic Violence, and Jewish Women International.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-urges-justice-department-to-release-information-about-hemisphere-phone-surveillance-program-that-would-outrage-americans-and-congress,Wyden Urges Justice Department to Release Information About ‘Hemisphere’ Phone Surveillance Program that would Outrage Americans and Congress,2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Unclassified Documents Contain Troubling Information About Dragnet Phone Surveillance Program

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., called on Attorney General Merrick Garland to make public documents related to the Hemisphere phone surveillance program, which allows federal, state, local and Tribal law enforcement agencies to request searches of trillions of U.S. phone records, usually without warrants.

Although the documents are not classified, the Justice Department has marked them as “Law Enforcement Sensitive,” which is meant to prevent them from being publicly released. In a letter to Garland sent today, Wyden urged the department to remove those restrictions.

“I have serious concerns about the legality of this surveillance program, and the materials provided by the DOJ contain troubling information that would justifiably outrage many Americans and other members of Congress,” Wyden wrote. “While I have long defended the government’s need to protect classified sources and methods, this surveillance program is not classified and its existence has already been acknowledged by the DOJ in federal court. The public interest in an informed debate about government surveillance far outweighs the need to keep this information secret.”

Under the Hemisphere program, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) indirectly pays AT&T to allow any federal, state, local or Tribal law enforcement agency to search AT&T customers’ phone records as far back as 1987, according to public records about the program.

Hemisphere has not been subjected to a federal Privacy Impact Assessment because of its unique funding structure. Rather than directly funding the surveillance program, the ONDCP provides a grant to the Houston High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, a partnership between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, which in turn pays AT&T to operate this surveillance program. Law enforcement agencies nationwide are able to request Hemisphere searches, including for investigations that are not drug related, Houston HIDTA officials told Wyden’s office.

The bipartisan Government Surveillance Reform Act would require a court order for surveillance of Americans’ phone records, the same standard currently required for the government to obtain historical email and instant message metadata records.

Read the full letter to Attorney General Garland here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-south-oregon-coast-earns-300000-federal-investment-for-tech-entrepreneurs,"Wyden, Merkley: South Oregon Coast Earns $300,000 Federal Investment for Tech Entrepreneurs",2023-11-17,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that the South Coast Development Council, Inc. in Coos Bay has secured a $300,000 federal investment to nurture local tech-based start-ups.

“This federal investment in the South Coast will generate jobs, innovation and economic activity that will ripple out for years to come,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified that key business, education and civic leaders in this rural Oregon community have teamed up to earn these resources. And I’ll keep battling for communities throughout Oregon to receive similar funds that build strong local economies.”

“Small businesses are the backbone of Oregon’s economy, and even more so for our rural and coastal communities,” said Merkley. “These important investments heading to the South Coast Development Council will support jobs, drive innovation, and help strengthen the local economy of the South Coast.”

The $300,000 from the federal Economic Development Administration is designed to accelerate technology entrepreneurship on the South Coast by increasing access to entrepreneurial support and startup capital. The South Coast Incubator Technology Industry Ecosystem Development project is led by the South Coast Development Council, Inc. with support from Southwestern Oregon Community College and the cities of Coos Bay and North Bend.

“This is a perfectly-timed opportunity for our rural communities on the south Oregon coast. Our center now can develop a technology-based business incubator to help grow new businesses that focus on the fast-evolving Green Energy and Blue Economy sectors,” said Derek Tonn, director of Southwestern’s Small Business Development Center. “That means direct assistance to local entrepreneurs developing tech-based products and services for clean energy innovation and people who work on the ocean and rivers.”

""This collaboration between South Coast Development Council, Inc., Southwestern Oregon Community College, their Small Business Development Center, and the cities of Coos Bay and North Bend is a potentially transformative step for Oregon's South Coast,” said Bryan Sykes, interim executive director, South Coast Development Council Inc. “The business incubator located on Southwestern’s campus will foster tech-based entrepreneurship, offering prototyping services and comprehensive support to emerging businesses, entrepreneurs, and innovators.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-nearly-32-million-for-columbia-river-basin-projects-and-programs-in-oregon,"Merkley, Wyden Announce Nearly $32 Million for Columbia River Basin Projects and Programs in Oregon",2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"The federal investments come through the EPA’s Columbia River Restoration Program, which was created by Senator Merkley to restore health, vitality of critical ecosystems

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is investing $31,768,530 million across seven Oregon projects and programs to reduce toxics in fish and water, address climate chaos, and help restore the health of the Columbia River Basin.

The federal investments come from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s historic $79 million total funding infusion into the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program, which is proving essential to the Pacific Northwest’s Tribes, communities, and economy that rely on the critical watershed. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was passed two years ago this week.

“Our rivers and waterways are the lifeblood of our communities. If they are dirty and polluted, our homes, schools, and businesses are dirty and polluted,” Merkley said. “The federal investments for these homegrown projects and programs will drive solutions that lead to a cleaner, healthier Columbia River Basin for our communities, wildlife, ecosystems, and economy.”

“The Columbia River Basin is a rich and essential part of Oregon’s history, as well an integral part of our present and future,” said Wyden. ""Clean water is a key ingredient for thriving and healthy communities in the Basin. And I will continue to fight for federal resources just like these that protect this precious natural asset for generations to come.”

Toxic pollutants can accumulate in water, sediment, and fish tissues. This threatens to decimate natural ecosystems and risk the health of Tribal communities and other Oregonians who consume affected fish populations.

To help tackle the issue, Senator Merkley—who serves as a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee—amended the Clean Water Act in 2016 to create the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program. Since then, he has used his position on the Appropriations Committee to fight for robust funding for the program.

In August 2022, Senators Merkley and Wyden were joined by EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan at Broughton Beach in Portland to announce the first wave of grants from the program that were awarded funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to reduce toxics in fish and water throughout the Columbia Basin.

“We are making tremendous strides in understanding the challenges of water quality and salmon recovery in the Columbia River Basin,” said EPA Regional Administrator Casey Sixkiller. “Working with our many talented partners in Oregon and across the Basin, we are expanding our efforts to support environmental and human health.”

Today’s announcement completes EPA’s awards available for Columbia River Basin Restoration Program funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

A full list and description of each of the latest 18 projects and programs—including the seven efforts in Oregon—can be found HERE.

The 2023 Tribal Grants to Reduce Toxics in the Columbia River Basin are as follows:

$1,999,055 for the Grand Ronde Toxics Reduction Planning and Action Project to launch a new effort to take concrete actions to reduce toxic pollution in the Willamette River Basin and allow the Tribe to develop a formalized toxics reduction plan for the first time. The project will benefit the health and well-being of Tribal members and improve water quality for fish and wildlife.

$1,990,990 for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) Strategic Pollution Prevention and Toxics Reduction Planning and Implementation Project to target toxics reduction actions in the Umatilla, Walla Walla, Snake, and John Day tributaries to the Columbia River. The comprehensive inventory of toxics will prioritize reduction actions. The project will focus on toxics and their impact on human health and the First Foods, which are a critical component of CTUIR Tribal member diets, and all depend on a healthy and functioning river and floodplain.

“From our water code: Water keeps all our bodies for us. ?úuš is a part of everything. It is within natítayt (the people), it is within tii?ám (the land), and it is within núsux (the salmon). It is essential for the survival of all life. Cold, clean, healthy water is the life blood of the land. This funding is an important step toward protecting cold clean water,” said Mason K. Murphy, Energy and Environmental Sciences Program Manager for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

“We are pleased to partner with EPA to reduce toxic pollution. As long-time stewards of the land and water in the Willamette Valley, the Grand Ronde are committed to protecting and restoring clean water, salmon, and healthy communities,” said Cheryle A. Kennedy, Chairwoman, Grand Ronde Tribal Council.

The 2023 Toxic Reduction Lead Grants in the Columbia River Basin are as follows:

$6,344,510 for the Salmon-Safe Columbia Partner Network: Mobilizing Water Quality Protection Actions across the Inland Northwest Project to scale up its proven work and engage new Tribes, farmers, ranchers, developers, and other land managers in voluntary actions to protect water quality and enhance climate resiliency.

$6,000,539 for the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Columbia River Basin Restoration Funding Assistance Program – Toxic Reduction Lead. The funding will be used to fuel activities that safeguard waterways from pesticides and mercury, remediate orphaned brownfield sites in communities historically impacted the most by toxic pollutants, and implement actions to PFAS compounds (known as “forever chemicals”) to improve the health of Oregon’s natural resources and those who depend on them.

$5,599,735 for The Freshwater Trust’s Mid-Snake Toxics and Runoff Reduction Program, which seeks to establish and support a coordinating committee of funders and implementers to target and implement high impact irrigation upgrades on agricultural fields that reduce the runoff that fuels dangerous methylmercury production in the Snake River. Methylmercury threatens human health, and the anoxic conditions that lead to methylmercury production threaten whole ecosystems.

$5,546,005 for Scaling Up: Urban Waters and Wildlife Partners (De)pave the Way on Toxics Reduction in the Upper Willamette with Cascade Pacific RC&D, which aims to further expand their flagship stormwater retrofit program, continue to provide technical assistance for improved stormwater management and install twenty-four voluntary, green stormwater infrastructure facilities to reduce or eliminate pollution and runoff, improve water quality, and protect habitat while promoting citizen engagement and knowledge.

$4,287,696 for the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership – School Stormwater Reduction Program, which will work with community partners to design and build stormwater retrofit projects to reduce the stormwater pollution generated from schoolyards and school parking areas; highlight green infrastructure approaches at a communities’ most public places; and engage and teach teachers, students, and community members about stormwater issues and solutions.

“Working across the interior Columbia Basin from ranches on Oregon’s John Day River to barley farms on Snake River tributaries in Idaho to commercial development in Bend and Spokane and Boise, the project builds a market-based movement of partnering organizations and conservation organizations and Tribes working together to inspire countless voluntary landowner actions across the basin to protect water quality and enhance climate resiliency,” Dan Kent, Co-Founder and Executive Director, Salmon-Safe said.

""DEQ is excited to see this funding coming to Oregon and the Columbia River Basin to support our work on the ground with communities,” said Oregon DEQ Director Leah Feldon. “This is one of North America’s largest basins and home to so many cultural, natural and economic resources – it’s important we do our part to reduce the impacts of toxics.”

“Methylmercury threatens communities in the Columbia River Basin. Reductions in the agricultural runoff that help fuel methylmercury production can be easily achieved by converting surface irrigated fields to sprinkler irrigation systems. The barrier to implementing thousands of these upgrades in the Mid-Snake Basin (Eastern Oregon and Western Idaho) is not lack of producer interest. It’s simply not anyone’s job to solve the bigger funding, timing, and coordination barriers that currently inhibit project adoption at speed and scale. The Freshwater Trust, in partnership with a Coordinating Committee of regional funders and implementers, will use advanced watershed analytics to identify priority clusters of projects, make simple and financially compelling offers to producers to install new equipment, and work with local water user groups to continuously build up a queue of shovel-ready projects. We’re excited EPA is giving us the opportunity to demonstrate a bigger, faster pathway forward that can benefit so many communities,” said Tim Wigington, Vice President of Finance and Policy, The Freshwater Trust.

“Urban stormwater is the number one threat to clean water in the Willamette Valley- and we have brought partners together to provide solutions that create both habitat and better water quality in our urban neighborhoods. The Urban Waters and Wildlife Partnership (UWWP), led by the Long Tom Watershed Council, addresses this challenging problem through working with businesses to design and install Trout Friendly Landscapes on commercial and industrial properties throughout Eugene and Springfield. The Partnership is comprised of the Cities of Eugene & Springfield, Lane County, Willamalane, Eugene Water & Electric Board, Springfield Utility Board, Metro Wastewater Management Commission, Upper Willamette Soil & Water Conservation District, Cascade Pacific Resource Conservation & Development (CPRCD), and all four regional Watershed Councils: McKenzie, Middle & Coast Fork of the Willamette and Long Tom. As the Toxics Lead, CPRCD will disperse EPA funding to UWWP projects and partners. Funds will support the expansion of the partnership's work to include new projects such as Lane County's Stormwater Basin Cleaning Assistance Program (SCAP),” said Kirk Shimeall, Executive Director, Cascade Pacific Resource Conservation & Development.

“The School Stormwater Reduction Program is a profound investment in clean water and healthier communities. Thanks to Senator Merkley’s leadership and the Columbia River Basin Restoration Act, we’re installing stormwater treatment infrastructure/facilities at schools in Oregon and Washington — reducing the amount of toxic pollution entering local waterways while also transforming parking lots and schoolyards into watershed science learning laboratories for students,” said Elaine Placido, Executive Director, Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-call-for-implementation-of-critical-provisions-to-end-road-safety-crisis,"Wyden, Colleagues Call for Implementation of Critical Provisions to End Road Safety Crisis",2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Ron Wyden along with Senate colleagues has sent a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration requesting an update on the implementation of critical road safety provisions for Oregon and the country in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“Last year, nearly 43,000 people died in motor vehicle crashes. While this number represents a slight decrease from 2021 — the deadliest year on the road in sixteen years — bold action is necessary to address this road safety crisis,” wrote the senators. “There is no doubt our nation is at a critical moment for traffic safety, and NHTSA’s task of implementing the much needed … safety provisions will determine whether we continue our progress and leave traffic fatalities in the rear view mirror.”

“We commend NHTSA for its work to curb the disturbing increase in traffic related deaths that culminated in 2021, but now is not the time to turn on cruise control when it comes to road safety.”

Specifically, the senators requested NHTSA to provide a written update on its progress in implementing ten safety provisions secured in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law:

Recall Completion (Sec. 24202), which directs NHTSA to publish an annual list of recall completion rates;

Motor Vehicle Seatback Safety Standards (Sec. 24204), which directs NHTSA to issue an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking to update Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 207 regarding seatback safety standards;

Automatic Shutoff (Sec. 24505), which directs NHTSA to issue a final rule to require manufacturers of vehicles with keyless ignitions to install a device that automatically shuts off the vehicle after it idles for a certain period;

Crash Avoidance Technology (Sec. 24208), which directs NHTSA to issue minimum performance standards for crash avoidance technologies and to require all cars be equipped with a forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking system as well as a lane departure warning and lane keeping assist system;

Reduction in Driver Distraction (Sec. 24209), which directs NHTSA to conduct research on driver monitoring systems to reduce driver distraction and driver disengagement;

Headlamps (Sec. 24212), which directs NHTSA to issue a final rule amending Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108 regarding performance-based standards for vehicle headlamps;

Hood and Bumper Standards (Sec. 24214), which directs NHTSA to request comment on potential updates to hood and bumper standards;

Early Warning Reporting (Sec. 24216), which directs NHTSA to conduct a study on existing requirements for manufacturers to report information and data to help identify potential safety issues;

Advanced Impaired Driver Technology (Sec. 24220), which directs NHTSA to issue a final rule requiring new vehicles be equipped with impaired driving prevention technology; and,

Child Safety (Sec. 24222), which directs NHTSA to issue a final rule requiring new cars be equipped with a system to alert the driver to check rear seats after the engine is turned off.

The letter was led by Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.). Along with Wyden, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/blumenauer-wyden-introduce-groundbreaking-tribal-co-stewardship-model,"Blumenauer, Wyden Introduce Groundbreaking Tribal Co-Stewardship Model",2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Earl Blumenauer and Senator Ron Wyden, along with Senator Jeff Merkley, reintroduced the Wy’east Tribal Resources Restoration Act. The legislation directs the U.S. Forest Service to partner with the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs to develop a co-management plan for agreed-upon Treaty Resource Emphasis Zones. The legislation would establish one of the first placed-based co-management strategies in the nation. This legislation was introduced last Congress, and it had a hearing in the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

“Indigenous communities have been responsible stewards of Oregon’s lands and wildlife since time immemorial. We must do more to capitalize on their leadership in our conservation efforts—not just because the federal government has a moral obligation to do so but because we will not be successful without them,” said Congressman Earl Blumenauer. “Tribal co-stewardship represents 21st?century public lands management.”

“The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs have generations-long knowledge of best ecological practices and treaty rights with the federal government that must be protected,” Senator Ron Wyden said. “This legislation would secure both goals in the Mount Hood National Forest by giving the Tribe an important voice and role in the management of its precious cultural resources.”

“The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs are the largest neighbor to the Mt. Hood National Forest and are essential in maintaining and protecting the region’s cultural and ecological resources,” said Senator Jeff Merkley. “This legislation is a critical step in fulfilling our treaty and trust responsibilities to the Warm Springs community by creating a framework for them to take an active role in co-managing the forest and utilizing their knowledge, traditions, and expertise to improve forest management.”

The Wy’east Tribal Resources Restoration Act:

· Directs the U.S. Forest Service to develop a co-management plan with the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs to protect and enhance Tribal Treaty resources and protect the Reservation from wildfire within agreed-upon “Treaty Resources Emphasis Zones.” These zones are areas within the Mount Hood National Forest subject to the Warm Springs-Forest Service co-management plan;

· Requires implementation of the Cultural Foods Obligations, which were included in the Public Lands Management Act of 2009 but have never been implemented;

· Integrates traditional ecological knowledge as an important part of the best available scientific information used in forest and resource management areas within the Zone;

· Authorizes $3,500,000 in annual appropriations and the use of existing Forest Service revenue to ensure the Tribe is a full participant in management.

Click here for bill text. Click herefor a one-page fact sheet.

“We are grateful to Rep. Blumenauer and Senator Wyden for this legislation.?Warm Springs people have cared for the land since the Creator placed us here, and this legislation will help reconnect Wyeast to its original inhabitants and integrate?traditional ecological knowledge into federal land management.?The bill would allow the Warm Springs Tribe to?improve fish and wildlife habitat, reduce forest fuels and?wildfire risk in the borderlands of our Reservation — an area designated as a priority?fireshed by the U.S. Forest Service.? The result will improve forest and wildlife health for the benefit of all Oregonians,” said Warm Springs Chairman Jonathan Smith.

“Our nonprofit agrees that shifting federal management of Mt. Hood towards a modern, community-empowered mindset is dearly needed.?Across wildfires mitigation, ecological or recreation public interests, current regulatory regimes hinder more than help,” said Noel Johnson, President of Teacup/Mt. Hood Nordic.

""The Oregon Trails Coalition is thankful for Congressman Blumenauer and Senator Wyden's leadership in reintroducing the?Wy'east Tribal Resources Restoration Act, as we believe true partnerships with Tribes are crucial for honoring treaty rights and protecting the long-term health of the treasured lands and waters we turn to for recreation and renewal. We are committed to continuing to collaborate to increase investment in protecting natural and cultural?resources as well as recreation access on Wy'east/ Mt. Hood National Forest,” said Stephanie Noll, Coalition Director of Oregon Trails Coalition.

“Sustainable Northwest commends Representative?Blumenauer?and Senator Wyden for introduction of Wy’east Tribal Resources Restoration Act, and its emphatic recognition of?tribal?sovereignty and treaty rights. Far too often, legislation designed to protect and enhance federal natural resource values fails to respect and honor the legally binding obligations the federal government has to?Tribal?nations in these landscapes. This legislation paves the way for a new and equitable approach to achieve protection and enhancement of treasured places, while explicitly upholding and supporting?Tribal?treaty rights and sovereignty in land management planning and decision-making,” said Greg Block, President of Sustainable Northwest

“I applaud Congressman Blumenauer and Senator Wyden’s efforts to expand the co-management of the Mt. Hood National Forest alongside the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs. Scenic beauty and outdoor recreation are major motivators for tourism in Oregon?and these opportunities are greatly enhanced by the Tribes who have tended these treasured places since time immemorial. This bill takes important steps forward in recognizing tribal sovereignty and treaty rights to ensure that this stewardship can continue for generations to come,” said Todd Davidson, CEO Travel Oregon?

“This co-management strategy between the Forest Service and the Tribe is an excellent outline to improve the technical understanding of trust responsibilities while recognizing the need to integrate ecological and scientific knowledge with the intent to better fulfill the trust relationship between the US Government and Tribal relations,” said Mike Quinn, Vice President of Mt. Hood Skibowl.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-nearly-400000-for-bend-small-business-to-research-environmental-solutions,"Wyden, Merkley Announce Nearly $400,000 for Bend Small Business to Research Environmental Solutions",2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"EPA resources for LeapFrog Designs will be used on development of graywater technologies

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a nearly $400,000 federal grant to LeapFrog Designs in Bend to develop a nature-based treatment technology to reuse onsite non-potable graywater. Graywater is wastewater from sources like kitchen sinks, bathtubs, showers and washing machines that do not include human waste.

“Smart and effective solutions to water shortages generated by the climate crisis will often come from small businesses just like LeapFrog Designs with its ethic of innovation and creativity,” said Wyden. “I’m gratified this Bend company has secured this federal investment, and will keep working to support these small businesses in Oregon and across the nation while also investing in the green economy of the future.”

“Investing in Oregon’s small businesses that create climate-friendly innovations and solutions is a win-win for local economies and the environment. LeapFrog in Bend is employing a creative use of technology that works to address both water scarcity and water pollution,” said Merkley. “This investment will create local jobs, protect the environment, and help keep small businesses competitive.”

The $399,618 grant to LeapFrog Designs from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Small Business Innovation Research program is for researching solutions to complex climate issues.

“Water scarcity and water pollution are huge problems nationwide and worldwide,” said Nick Sund, LeapFrog Designs Co-Founder and Head of Product. “Water reuse solves both simultaneously.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-statement-on-white-house-nomination-of-amy-m-baggio-for-us-district-court-in-oregon,"Wyden, Merkley Statement on White House Nomination of Amy M. Baggio for U.S. District Court in Oregon",2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. –U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today issued the following statement on the White House nomination of Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Amy M. Baggio for a seat on the U.S. District Court in Oregon.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-jayapal-introduce-legislation-to-provide-alternatives-to-incarceration-for-parents-and-caregivers-to-keep-families-together-children-out-of-foster-care,"Wyden, Jayapal Introduce Legislation to Provide Alternatives to Incarceration for Parents and Caregivers to Keep Families Together, Children Out of Foster Care",2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Legislation is endorsed by nearly 40 criminal justice, civil rights and child welfare organizations

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., today reintroduced legislation that would create an alternative to incarceration for eligible parents and caregivers and provide them the resources needed to keep their children safely at home instead of in the foster care system.

“Children should not be subjected to trauma and uncertainty caused by a broken criminal justice system, which at times needlessly splits up families,” Wyden said. “I’m proud to once again join Representative Jayapal in introducing legislation to expand the work of successful programs in our home states to reduce mass incarceration nationwide and help keep more families together.”

“America’s broken criminal justice system disproportionately impacts Black and Brown communities, breaking up families and adding to our country’s mass incarceration problem,” said Congresswoman Jayapal. “It’s time for us to finally prioritize policies that deliver humane alternatives and shrink the world’s largest prison population, which is why I’m so proud to reintroduce the FAMILIES Act. This legislation, proudly modeled after programs in Washington and Oregon that have reduced recidivism, will divert parents and caregivers from incarceration and invest in their wellbeing with comprehensive services so that we can keep families together and provide resources to ensure their safety and success.”

The Finding Alternatives to Mass Incarceration: Lives Improved by Ending Separation (FAMILIES) Act would allow federal judges to divert parents and caregivers from incarceration into a comprehensive program that would better serve them, their families, and society by offering resources, services and training to meet their unique needs. The legislation is modeled after successful programs in Oregon and Washington state that have already kept hundreds of families together and have been vital to reducing recidivism.

The FAMILIES Act establishes a diversion program that includes education, employment services, parenting skills, mental health and substance abuse services. It also addresses basic needs of the individual and their family by connecting them with health care, housing assistance, and other potential public benefits.

To be eligible, an individual must be: pregnant, a parent of a minor child, a caregiver for a minor child or other minor relative, a caregiver for an individual with disabilities or a caregiver for an elderly family. When considering eligibility for the FAMILIES program, courts will consider the individual’s significant parental or caregiver responsibilities, their history of justice involvement, the safety of their family, and a family impact statement describing the impact that a prison sentence would have on the family of the defendant. Judges will receive training in implementing the FAMILIES program including training on trauma-informed decision making, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, substance abuse and addiction, and mental health.

In the Senate, the legislation was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin, D-Ill., Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., Ed Markey, D-Mass., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Cory Booker, D-N.J., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass, and Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill.

In the House, the legislation was cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton, D-D.C., David Trone, D-Md., Gwen Moore, D-Wis., Suzanne Bonamici, D-Ore., Troy A. Carter, D-La., Jonathan L. Jackson, D-Ill., Henry ""Hank"" Johnson, D-Ga., Jesus ""Chuy"" Garcia, D-Ill.

The legislation is endorsed by: The Sentencing Project, AIDS Alliance for Women, Infants, Children, Youth & Families, Vera Institute of Justice, Drug Policy Alliance, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, National Association of Counsel for Children, National Working Positive Coalition, Community Liver Alliance, National Council of Churches, National Center on Adoption and Permanency, PrEP4All, CURE (Citizens United for Rehabilitation of Errants), NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, Washington Office on Latin America, StoptheDrugWar.org, Union for Reform Judaism, Safer Foundation, Law Enforcement Action Partnership, WE GOT US NOW, Washington Defender Association (Seattle, Wash.), the Osborne Association (New York, N.Y.), the New York Initiative for Children of Incarcerated Parents (New York, N.Y.), CARES of Southwest Michigan (Kalamazoo, Mich.), Sponsors Inc. (Eugene, Ore.), Center For Community Alternatives (New York, N.Y.), A New PATH (Spring Valley, Calif.), Black and Pink Massachusetts (Boston, Mass.), Partners for Our Children (Seattle, Wash.), National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence-Maryland Chapter (Baltimore, Md.), AIDS Foundation Chicago (Chicago, Ill.), Operation Restoration (New Orleans, La.), Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity (Oakland/Los Angeles. Calif.), Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (Seattle, Wash.), Treatment Action Group (Chicago, Ill.), Illinois Alliance for Reentry and Justice (Chicago, Ill.), AIDS Action Baltimore (Baltimore, Md.), Philadelphia Family Pride (Philadelphia, Pa.), Hep Free Hawai'i (Honolulu, Hi.) and AIDS Alabama (Birmingham, Ala.).

Statements of Support

Isabel Coronado, Chair, Campaign to Keep Families Together: ""For too long, criminal justice reform has primarily focused on the incarcerated, leaving the children of the incarcerated as an afterthought. The Families Act addresses this oversight by offering an encouraging example of moving beyond traditional forms of punishment, which inflict years of needless trauma on children, and instead, it explores alternatives that keep families together. Through this legislation, we can invest in the next generation and provide millions of children with the opportunity to thrive, despite their parents' convictions.""

Ebony Underwood, Founder and CEO, WE GOT US NOW: ""For decades children have been separated from their parents due to harsh and cruel policies of incarceration. The Families Act stops this cycle in its tracks with a solution that not only ensures the well-being of the parent through sentencing alternatives, but ensures that the children of the parent are also provided with necessary supports in the process. WE GOT US NOW believes that society must stop incarcerating our way out of problems and understand that children need their parents and some parents need a little more support than others. The Families Act is a legislative effort that acts as a turnkey solution to keeping families connected, creating fair sentencing, and empowering families and communities.""

The text of the bill is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-statement-on-judiciary-committee-vote-advancing-magistrate-mustafa-kasubhais-us-district-court-nomination-to-the-full-senate,"Wyden, Merkley Statement on Judiciary Committee Vote Advancing Magistrate Mustafa Kasubhai’s U.S. District Court Nomination to the Full Senate",2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee today voted to advance to the full Senate U.S. Magistrate Mustafa Kasubhai’s nomination to the U.S. District Court.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-nearly_38-million-in-federal-funds-for-ione,"Wyden, Merkley Announce Nearly  $3.8 Million in Federal Funds for Ione",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Morrow County city to receive USDA resources for sewer system

Washington, D.C. –U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced the city of Ione will receive nearly $3.8 million in federal funds to build a sewer system for the Eastern Oregon town.

“Ensuring Oregon’s rural communities have the infrastructure their residents and small businesses need to grow and develop is paramount for our state’s overall economic health,” Wyden said. “In my Morrow County town hall and others in every corner of the state, I’ve heard how the need to modernize outdated infrastructure is an essential piece to achieve rural quality of life. Ione has worked tirelessly to upgrade its systems so homes keep their value, the new school is supported, and the community can grow.”

“Outdated sewer infrastructure is at greater risk of failing and limits growth and development opportunities for communities,” said Senator Merkley. “Investments such as this are critical not just for the safety of Ione community members, but also for helping the City and surrounding areas thrive.”

Ione lacks a community-wide wastewater collection or disposal system. Each residence and/or business has an individual septic tank and drain field, which limits community growth and development. The federal investment from USDA Rural Development is both a grant of $1.98 million and a loan of $1.81 million.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-31-million-investment-for-oregon-air-national-guard-training-facilities-passes-senate,"Merkley, Wyden Announce $31 million Investment for Oregon Air National Guard Training Facilities Passes Senate",2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced Senate passage of two critical community-initiated projects totaling $31 million for the Oregon Air National Guard.

The investments were included in the FY24 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies funding bill, which cleared the chamber with strong bipartisan support, putting the Oregon Air National Guard closer than ever to completing phases 3 and 4 of their project to consolidate training facilities for the 125th Special Tactics Squadron (STS).

“Oregon’s Air National Guard do critical work to help protect the security of Oregon and our nation,” Merkley said. “This funding for the Special Tactics Complex will help make Oregon a West Coast hub for special tactics training and provide Oregon’s Air National Guard members with up-to-date training and resources.”

“Oregon’s Air National Guard and its dedicated service members play an essential role in the defense of our state and country,” Wyden said. “This Oregon unit, so key to national security, fully deserves this federal investment that would modernize its training and ensure it has the resources it needs to be strong and vital in the years ahead.”

Merkley is the only Oregon member of Congress from either chamber since Senator Mark Hatfield to serve on the Appropriations Committee, which wrote the bill and is one of the most powerful on Capitol Hill. He joined the committee in 2013 so that Oregon would have a strong voice in decisions about the investments our nation should be making.

Senators Merkley and Wyden teamed up to champion the significant investments for the Oregon Air National Guard, as their Special Tactics Squadron’s current buildings for training are set to be returned to the Port of Portland in 2030. The funding will increase operational and energy efficiencies and reduce overall maintenance costs for Oregon National Guard. Once complete, this center is expected to become a West Coast training hub and will be a draw for the 125th Special Tactics Squadron in addition to those looking for specialized training.

“The efforts from Senators Merkley and Wyden and their teams on these projects directly supports our overall mission success and readiness for your local Portland Air National Guard and its service members,” said Brig. Gen. David Unruh, Commander of the Oregon Air National Guard.

Now the bill has cleared the Senate, it will next head to the U.S. House of Representatives. The final legislation to emerge from the process must then be passed by both chambers before it is signed into law.

Senators Merkley and Wyden urge the House to take up the legislation without delay to keep vital government systems and programs running and invest in targeted projects needed in communities across Oregon.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-lee-davidson-and-lofgren-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-reauthorize-and-reform-key-surveillance-law-secure-protections-for-americans-rights,"Wyden, Lee, Davidson and Lofgren Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Reauthorize and Reform Key Surveillance Law, Secure Protections for Americans’ Rights",2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"The Government Surveillance Reform Act Will Establish New Safeguards for Government Surveillance and Accountability for Abuses; Reauthorize and Reform FISA Section 702; Establish Protections for Americans Whose Private Information is Collected Under Other Intelligence Authorities; and Modernize Outdated Surveillance Laws

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, and Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif., today introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Government Surveillance Reform Act, to reauthorize Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act with important new protections for Americans’ constitutional rights.

The legislation is cosponsored by Senators Tammy Baldwin, D-Wisc., Steve Daines, R-Mont., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Cynthia Lummis, R-Wy., Jon Tester, D-Mont., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Edward Markey, D-Mass.

In the House, the bill is cosponsored by Reps. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., Thomas Massie, R-Ky., Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif., Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., Rep. Judy Chu, D-Calif., Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Calif., Rep. Lou Correa, D-Calif., and Rep. Ted Lieu, D-Calif.

“Americans know that it is possible to confront our country’s adversaries ferociously without throwing our constitutional rights in the trash can. But for too long surveillance laws have not kept up with changing times.” Wyden said. “Our bill continues to give government agencies broad authority to collect information on threats at home and abroad, including the ability to act quickly in emergencies and settle up with the court later. But it creates much stronger protections for the privacy of law-abiding Americans, and restores the warrant protections that are at the heart of the Fourth Amendment.”

“The FISA Court and the Director of National Intelligence have confirmed that our government conducted warrantless surveillance of millions of Americans’ private communications,” Senator Lee said. “It is imperative that Congress enact real reforms to protect our civil liberties, including warrant requirements and statutory penalties for privacy violations, in exchange for reauthorizing Section 702. Our bipartisan Government Surveillance Reform Act stops illegal government spying and restores the Constitutional rights of all Americans.”

“For decades, U.S. Intelligence agencies have been circumventing our 4th Amendment right to privacy by spying on Americans without a warrant. The government Surveillance Accountability Act would end abuses under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act and end unauthorized surveillance programs,” said Rep. Warren Davidson.

“It would be unwise for Members of Congress to greenlight another major surveillance reauthorization without carefully considering and enacting surveillance reform measures. For too long, federal intelligence and law enforcement agencies have had nearly unchecked access to Americans’ personal data,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren. “Our bipartisan, bicameral comprehensive and calibrated legislation provides reform solutions sought for decades. With widespread support from across the political spectrum the Government Surveillance Reform Act would dramatically curb surveillance abuse and protect Americans' civil liberties, while preserving national security.”

The bill reauthorizes Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) for 4 years, allowing intelligence agencies to continue to use the authorities granted by that law, but with key new protections against documented abuses and new accountability measures when abuses occur. It also includes a host of reforms to government surveillance authorities beyond Section 702, including requiring warrants for government purchases of private data from data brokers.

Although surveillance proponents claimed that the previous 702 reauthorization included sufficient safeguards to prevent abuse, intelligence agencies have documented extensive new violations in recent years. Abuses include warrantless searches for a U.S. Senator, a member of Congress, and a state court judge, among others.

The bill’s reforms include:

Protecting Americans from warrantless backdoor searches, ensuring that foreigners aren’t targeted as a pretext for spying on the Americans with whom they are communicating, and prohibiting the collection of domestic communications.

Extending similar reforms to surveillance activities under Executive Order 12333, including by limiting warrantless searches of Americans’ communications and prohibiting the targeting of foreigners as a pretext for surveilling Americans. It also limits the acquisition of Americans’ information as part of large datasets.

Requiring warrants for surveillance of Americans’ location data, web browsing and search records, including AI assistants like Alexa and Siri, vehicle data and by prohibiting the government from purchasing Americans’ data from data brokers.

Exceptions to ensure the government can continue to use Section 702 for defensive cybersecurity purposes, to assist in locating and rescuing hostages overseas and emergency provisions in cases where there isn’t sufficient time to get a warrant in advance.

The bill has been endorsed by dozens of civil society organizations:

Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC), AAPI Equity Alliance, AAPI Victory Alliance, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Americans for Prosperity, API Equality-LA, Asian American Federal Employees for Nondiscrimination (AAFEN), Asian Texans for Justice, Aurora Commons LLC, Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law, Center for Democracy & Technology, Chinese for Affirmative Action, Demand Progress, Due Process Institute, Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC), Empowering Marginalized Asian Communities, Fight for the Future, FreedomWorks, Free Press Action, Libertas Institute, Media Alliance, Muslim Advocates, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL), Oakland Privacy, OCA, OCA Greater Cleveland - Asian Pacific American Advocates, OCA Silicon Valley, Project for Privacy and Surveillance Accountability (PPSA), Project on Government Oversight (POGO), Restore the Fourth, Secure Justice, Stop AAPI Hate, Surveillance Technology Oversight Project and X-Lab.

The bill was hailed as the most comprehensive and balanced government surveillance legislation in years, by groups across the political spectrum:

Bob Goodlatte, former Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee and Senior Policy Advisor of the Project for Privacy and Surveillance Accountability (PPSA): “For far too long, the government has abused Section 702. This statute, enacted by Congress to surveil foreign threats in foreign lands, has become a tool to subject countless Americans to warrantless surveillance. The reforms in this bill ensure that our Constitutional rights will once again be respected, just as the Founders intended. PPSA appreciates this well-crafted bill – especially its tough accountability provisions. Rogue agents in the intelligence community and FBI who intentionally violate the law to spy on Americans must be held responsible.”

Sean Vitka, Policy Director, Demand Progress: “This year represents the most significant opportunity for protecting Americans from warrantless government surveillance in generations, and the GSRA rises to the challenge. Section 702 must not be reauthorized without the critical, comprehensive privacy protections in this bill.”

Jason Pye, Director of Rule of Law Initiatives, Due Process Institute: “Due Process Institute strongly supports the bipartisan and bicameral Government Surveillance Reform Act. For too long, arrogance prevented the intelligence apparatus and its allies in Congress from coming to the table to negotiate reforms. Now that reauthorization of Section 702 has been made difficult by the politically diverse community of advocates and lawmakers demanding commonsense to protect Americans from warrantless surveillance, the intelligence community has become more willing to listen. Unfortunately, however, they have only put forward unacceptable half measures. The Government Surveillance Reform Act is the only path forward to protect Americans from warrantless surveillance.”

John C. Yang, President and Executive Director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC: ""Asian Americans are disproportionately scrutinized as compared to other Americans in the name of ‘national security.’ When it comes to the federal government’s surveillance—whether pursuant to Section 702 of FISA or other surveillance authorities—Asian Americans are likely to be ‘incidentally’ spied on at a higher rate, simply because we have family, friends, and business associates who live abroad. This is highly concerning, given how the federal government is able to run backdoor searches through this data without a warrant. This critical bill would put in place protections and transparency mechanisms that help to regulate the collection of Americans’ sensitive communications, and reign in the likely greater impact that such existing authorities have on communities of color.""

James Czerniawski, Senior policy Analyst, Americans for Prosperity: “The U.S. intelligence community has frequently misused its authorities under FISA, including Section 702, as well as other surveillance powers, eroding trust in institutions responsible for Americans' safety. Protecting our constitutional rights and national security are not mutually exclusive goals. The Government Surveillance Reform Act is a critical step toward restoring trust, protecting constitutional rights, and maintaining public safety. We commend Senators Wyden and Lee, along with Representatives Davidson and Lofgren for their leadership in advancing this important legislation.”

A one-page summary of the bill is here.

A section-by-section summary of the bill is here.

Read the full bill here.

The bill’s bipartisan, bicameral co-sponsors praised the introduction:

“Freedom and privacy are bedrock Montana values, and no DC bureaucrat or government agency should be able to access Montanans’ personal information without a warrant,” said Sen. Jon Tester. “My bipartisan bill will slam shut dangerous loopholes to ensure that government can’t intrude on Montanans’ personal lives and help folks across the Treasure State rest easy knowing their Constitutional rights won’t be violated.”

“Federal intelligence agencies have access to powerful surveillance tools that help protect our national security from foreign threats – but these tools too often violate Americans’ privacy rights,” said Sen. Elizabeth Warren. “This bill will rein in these abuses and reform FISA’s Section 702 to protect Americans from mass, warrantless surveillance.”

“Americans have a constitutional right to be protected from unreasonable searches and seizures that is nonnegotiable,” said Sen. Steve Daines. “As the federal government is increasingly sticking it’s nose into Americans’ private conversations and records, we must put an end to illegitimate searches and protect this fundamental right.”

“Americans have a constitutional right to privacy, but Section 702 has been used to violate that right hundreds of thousands of times. That is why we cannot reauthorize FISA without a major overhaul,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal. “I’m proud to join Senator Wyden and Representatives Davidson and Lofgren in leading this legislation to ensure that the right to privacy is protected for all people.”

“For decades, our intelligence agencies have offered us a false choice: either keep our country safe or protect Americans’ constitutional right to privacy. But we can and must do both,” said Rep. Sara Jacobs. “Yet, Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) has enabled the warrantless collection of Americans’ activities – from phone calls and website searches to emails and location data – with too little oversight and accountability. That’s why I’m so proud to co-lead the bipartisan and bicameral Government Surveillance Reform Act, which gives our intelligence agencies the necessary tools to combat terrorism, safeguards Americans’ rights, and ensures robust oversight. This is the framework we need to protect our country and uphold our values.”

“Adding these privacy safeguards to FISA will ensure our civil liberties are protected without sacrificing national security. We have learned the hard way that unchecked surveillance is a violation of our right to privacy. I strongly support comprehensive overhaul of FISA with the Government Surveillance Reform Act, and urge my colleagues to put their constituents first and do the same,” said Rep. Barbara Lee.

“Unwarranted and unchecked surveillance violates our constitutional rights,” said Rep. Lloyd Doggett. “By providing essential reforms to encompass new technological developments in an ever-changing landscape, this legislation recognizes that ensuring our national security need not require trampling individual liberties.”

“As new technologies emerge, we must ensure Americans’ data privacy is protected,” said Rep. Ted Lieu. “I’m pleased to co-author the bipartisan and bicameral Government Surveillance Reform Act, a comprehensive package of key reforms that strike an important balance between defending Americans’ civil liberties while protecting our national security. I’m also glad to see our Cell-Site Simulator Warrant Act and key provisions from our Government Surveillance Transparency Act included in the legislation.”

""Since its passage in 2008, FISA's Section 702 has been used by federal law enforcement to access sensitive information about people in the United States without a warrant, including their communications and location information, that is otherwise protected by the Fourth Amendment,” said Rep. Judy Chu. “As Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I am particularly concerned about the disproportionate impact Section 702 of FISA has on Asian Americans and members of the Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim, and South Asian, or AMEMSA, communities, who have been subject to Section 702 ‘backdoor searches’ simply because we have family, friends, and business associates in foreign countries. Racial profiling in the name of ‘national security’ has historically upended countless innocent lives, and that is why I joined as an original cosponsor of the Government Surveillance Reform Act, which would put in place much-needed, commonsense reforms to Section 702 that would protect the rights of Americans while preserving national security.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/advisory-wyden-lee-davidson-lofgren-biggs-to-announce-bipartisan-bicameral-surveillance-reform-legislation,"ADVISORY: Wyden, Lee, Davidson, Lofgren, Biggs To Announce Bipartisan, Bicameral Surveillance Reform Legislation",2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Government Surveillance Reform Act will Reauthorize and Reform FISA Section 702, Add Accountability for Abuses of Government Surveillance and Strengthen Constitutional Protections for Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., with Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif., and Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., will hold a press conference on Tuesday, November 7, to unveil new legislation to reauthorize and reform Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, and enact other reforms to protect Americans’ rights while preserving key surveillance authorities.

WHO:

U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore.

U.S. Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah

U.S. Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio

U.S. Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif.

U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz.

Speakers representing civil society organizations advocating for civil liberties and Constitutional rights

Additional cosponsors of the Government Surveillance Reform Act will be in attendance

WHEN: 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 7

WHERE: Senate Dirksen 215 -- Senate Finance Committee hearing room

WHAT: Press conference to release bipartisan surveillance reform legislation

Members of the media are encouraged to attend and RSVP to luis_soriano@wyden.senate.gov

For those who cannot attend, the event will be livestreamed on Sen. Wyden’s YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/user/SenRonWyden

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-hoyle-oregon-to-receive-nearly-900000-to-promote-local-and-regional-food-systems,"Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle: Oregon to Receive Nearly $900,000 to Promote Local and Regional Food Systems",2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley as well as U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle today announced nearly $900,000 in federal funds for Oregon to help increase the availability of locally sourced agricultural products and strengthen local and regional food systems statewide.

“Oregon has some of the best produce in the world growing right here in our state, and supporting hardworking Oregonians in agriculture and fishing is a huge priority,” said Wyden. “This federal investment is key to helping our state’s farmers and fishers as well as all Oregonians to enjoy the bounty of produce from growers across Oregon.”

“Oregon’s food, fiber, and fishing products are world-class, and folks across the state deserve to access and enjoy them,” said Merkley. “These federal investments will expand and strengthen our local food systems and increase the availability of locally grown agricultural and fishing products. The result will be a win-win for the fishers and farmers driving our economy, and for Oregon families looking to put more homegrown products on their kitchen tables.”

“Oregon’s farmers, fishers and consumers are all better off when we invest in our local and regional food systems,” said Rep. Hoyle. “We’re bringing Oregonians’ tax dollars back home to invest in projects through Central Coast Food Web in Newport to support more local consumption of Oregon’s world-class sustainable seafood, and Friends of Family Farmers in Junction City to help create more opportunities for small local market farmers. This will mean jobs and more access to high-quality local products for Oregonians.”

The $867,133 in federal funds comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Local Agriculture Market Program, Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Programs and the Regional Food System Partnerships grant programs. These awards will be distributed in Oregon as follows:

Friends of Family Farmers, Junction City – $264,360

Pacific NW CSA Coalition, Portland – $124,999

Central Coast Food Web, Newport - $477,774",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/dea-heeds-wydens-call-for-action-on-adhd-drug-shortage,DEA Heeds Wyden’s Call for Action on ADHD Drug Shortage,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Senator pressed agency to improve drug quota process

Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Ron Wyden responded today to the Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) announcement that the agency will make changes to its prescription stimulants quota process to respond to shortages of ADHD drugs and other medications.

“It is encouraging that ADHD medication manufacturers have committed to the DEA that they will use their allotted quota amounts and increase production,” Wyden said. “It’s clear that part of the reason that Americans are facing these prescription drug shortages, particularly in rural areas in my home state, is that the DEA’s quota system relies on outdated or incomplete data. While I understand there is no silver bullet to fixing the drug shortage, I hope these rule changes will provide much-needed transparency and flexibility to the DEA quota process, which will help more Oregonians and Americans get the medicines they need when they need them. I will continue to watchdog and make sure these changes work as intended, and look for every opportunity to improve this serious crisis hurting families across Oregon and entire United States.""

The DEA sets production quotas that limit the manufacturing of certain controlled prescription drugs. Over the past several months Senator Wyden has repeatedly pressed DEA Administrator Anne Milgram and Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Robert Califf to address the role that these quotas have played in the ongoing shortage of Adderall and other prescription stimulants. After the DEA and FDA released a joint statement at his request in August, Wyden urged ADHD drug manufacturers to boost their production or relinquish their excess quota to help address the shortage.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-reintroduce-legislation-to-end-criminalization-of-students-and-create-safer-environment-for-kids,"Wyden, Colleagues Reintroduce Legislation to End Criminalization of Students and Create Safer Environment for Kids",2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today that he and Senate colleagues have reintroduced legislation that would invest in safe and nurturing school environments that support all students and address over-policing in K-12 schools.

“The school to prison pipeline is a problem which disproportionately hurts students of color and creates an environment of learning in fear of being arrested,” Wyden said. “Closing the school to prison pipeline means investing in and improving student well-being. That’s why I’m proud to cosponsor legislation that would help create safer school environments by redirecting federal funding to support additional behavioral health and counseling staff in schools.”

Research shows the presence of police in schools leads to an increase in arrests of students — particularly students of color and students with disabilities — often for common misbehavior that a school could address without law enforcement. Meanwhile the presence of mental and behavioral health personnel in schools, like counselors, social workers and psychologists improves educational outcomes for kids — specifically by improving attendance and graduation rates while lowering the rates of suspension, expulsion and other disciplinary incidents.

The Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act would prohibit the use of federal funds to maintain police presence in schools and instead provide $5 billion in new grant funding to help schools hire more counselors, social workers, and other mental and behavioral health personnel — as well as implement services in schools that create positive and safe climates for all students.

Specifically, the legislation would:

Prohibit the use of federal funds for maintaining police in schools.

Instead, federal funds would be diverted toward other uses related to school safety within applicable grant programs.

Invest billions to help schools hire counselors, social workers, and other trauma-informed support personnel necessary to create safe, supportive learning environments for all students.

The grant funding would also help schools implement programs to improve school climate, such as school-wide positive behavioral interventions and supports, and invest in trauma-informed services and professional development.

Provide incentives to states and school districts to end the criminalization of young people — particularly Black, Native American and Latino students, immigrant students, students with disabilities, LGBTQ+ students and other historically marginalized students.

The legislation was led by U.S. Senator Chris Murphy D-Conn. Alongside Wyden, the bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Ed Markey, D-Mass., and Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.

This legislation is supported by Activists With A Purpose Plus, Advancement Project, Advocating 4 Kids Inc, Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint, Alliance for Quality Education, Alliance to Reclaim Our Schools, American Association of University Women, American Civil Liberties Union, American Humanist Association, AMORC, ARISE, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, Black Organizing Project, Black Swan Academy, Blue Future and many other organizations.

A one-page summary of the legislation is here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-senate-passage-of-critical-affordable-housing-and-transportation-infrastructure-investments-for-oregon,"Merkley, Wyden Announce Senate Passage of Critical Affordable Housing and Transportation Infrastructure Investments for Oregon",2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Federal investments included in the Fiscal Year 2024 Senate funding bill champion affordable housing, small ports, and more

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced major investments passed the Senate to expand affordable, rural, and veterans housing options and boost transportation infrastructure, including funding for 20 critical community-initiated projects across the state.

The investments were included in the FY24 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD) bill, which cleared the chamber with strong bipartisan support.

“As I held a town hall in each of Oregon’s 36 counties this year, I heard firsthand from folks about what matters most to them, including the need to take on the affordable housing crisis, build drought resilience, and move the state faster toward a renewable energy future,” Merkley said. “The funding included in these bills for programs and critical community-initiated projects will benefit Oregonians in every corner of the state for years to come, and I will keep championing them in Congress until they become law.”

“Wherever I go in our state, teachers, nurses, firefighters, veterans and other hardworking Oregonians tell me about the urgent need for housing they can afford,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified to have teamed up with communities across Oregon on these federal funds to work toward those housing goals as well as equally crucial objectives that invest in transportation infrastructure, green energy and more.

Merkley is the only Oregon member of Congress from either chamber since Senator Mark Hatfield to serve on the Appropriations Committee, which wrote the bill and is one of the most powerful on Capitol Hill. He joined the committee in 2013 so that Oregon would have a strong voice in decisions about the investments our nation should be making.

Senators Merkley and Wyden secured investments for a total of 20 Oregon community-initiated projects in the Senate THUD spending bill, which are as follows:

$5 million for TriMet to construct a new facility that will be a critical hub for powering and maintaining hundreds of zero-emissions busses, key to achieving TriMet’s commitment to a zero-emissions fleet by 2040.

$4 million for the City of North Bend to help demolish the old Coos County annex and construct affordable workforce housing for critically needed workers in education, public safety, logistics, and the healthcare industry.

$4 million for the Port of Hood River to help replace the Hood River/White Salmon Bridge. This lifeline across the Columbia River is almost 100 years old, inadequately sized, and dangerous to both bridge users and the river traffic that passes between its narrowly placed piers. Funding will cover early-phase costs of the project, including right-of-way acquisition and mitigation for impacts to tribal fishing access during construction, with the goal of breaking ground in 2025.

$4 million for the Port of Portland to complete necessary infrastructure improvements to redevelop the Port’s former Marine Terminal 2 into a housing innovation campus. This will become a housing hub for innovators to collaborate on ways to address the affordable housing crisis by improving the housing construction industry and creating more housing options. The Innovation Campus is expected to create about 17,000 good-paying jobs for rural, urban, and BIPOC communities and work to provide housing for working families and those on fixed incomes.

$3 million for the Columbia Cascade Housing Corporation to develop affordable housing in The Dalles on Chenowith Loop. The 75-unit building will provide housing and services to veterans, families, and households experiencing severe and persistent mental health challenges.

$2 million for the City of Portland to help with construction costs for its Barbur Apartments project in Southwest Portland. This development will offer 149 family-focused affordable rental units between one and four bedrooms, serving extremely low and low-income households.

$2 million for Portland Community Reinvestment Initiatives Inc for its project to provide 75 units of multigenerational, affordable rental housing on the historic Williams and Russel block in inner Northeast Portland to help reverse displacement of BIPOC and low-income families who owned property and lived in the neighborhood before their homes were unjustly taken from them by the City fifty years ago.

$1.565 million for DevNW to build 54 Community Land Trust (CLT) affordable homes in Corvallis. The homes will be 2-3 bedrooms and sold to low-to-moderate income families. The homes will be permanently affordable for subsequent Oregon homebuyers, helping to address the urgent affordable housing crisis in Benton County.

$1.5 million for Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity to construct 15 permanently affordable townhomes for workforce families. Due to soaring home prices in Central Oregon, workforce families are being priced out of the housing market. With this permanent affordability model, this investment supports not only these 15 homes and families, supporting each family who lives in the homes in perpetuity. After the completion of this project, Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity will have built 230 homes in Bend and Redmond since 1989, 71 of which are permanently affordable.

$1.5 million for the Pendleton Children’s Center to purchase and renovate a building next to their current facility in Pendleton to provide more space for childcare. Affordable, reliable, and high-quality childcare is much needed in Pendleton and is necessary to allow parents to join the workforce or to further their own education. The center’s goal is to help address this issue by enrolling a total of 150 children, in comparison to the current 36.

$1.5 million for the Portland Opportunities Industrialization Center and Rosemary Anderson High School to complete a two-acre mass timber community redevelopment called the Sunrise Learning Center. The property is in the diverse and economically disadvantaged Rockwood district. It will serve as a hub for small, locally owned businesses and community organizations, educational facilities for vulnerable youth, and affordable housing designed in collaboration with the community.

$1 million for Neighborhood House, Inc.—Portland’s largest food pantry on the west side and the only senior center in Southwest Multnomah County— for construction costs to renovate a newly-acquired building. This project will allow for program expansion, including developing a consortium of food providers that will serve as a centralized hub for combating hunger through shared resources and greater efficiency.

$900,000 for the City of Forest Grove for their project to install three 100 KW solar arrays at community facilities. This will reduce energy costs for low-income customers while reducing fossil gas dependence and combatting economic inequity.

$775,000 toward construction for the relocation and expansion of the Ella Curran Food Bank in Polk County. This project will allow the Food Bank to continue to serve as a safety net against hunger and food insecurity amid increasing community need.

$750,000 for Williams & Russell Community Development Corporation (CDC) for its project to construct a 20-unit townhouse style condominium development that will be affordable to families and prioritizes housing Black community members as an effort to foster restorative justice for their displacement from this block 50 years ago.

$650,000 for the City of Sutherlin to acquire and develop a 13-acre parcel and 17,000-sq. foot building to provide emergency shelter and supportive, wrap around services to address health, financial, or other barriers to securing stable housing for people experiencing homelessness in Sutherlin, Oregon.

$500,000 for the African Youth & Community Organization (AYCO) to go toward finalizing construction of a community center which will continue providing culturally specific, safe spaces for East African immigrants in Portland.

$500,000 for Community Action Resource Enterprises, Inc. (CARE) to renovate an existing building to serve as Tillamook County’s first low-barrier navigation center for folks experiencing houselessness. The center will be co-located with employment, support, and case management services.

$400,000 for the Oregon Wildlife Heritage Foundation for their projects to secure wildlife crossings on I-5 in Southern Oregon, which bisects the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. The funding will complete design and engineering for fencing to accompany two high-priority wildlife overcrossings in the region renowned for its remarkable ecology and diverse range of biological resources.

$220,000 for the Travel Information Council (TIC) to install panels of tribal-approved historical interpretation in 12 safety rest areas in Oregon. Currently, travelers stopping at rest areas in Eastern Oregon along I-84 have access to informational kiosks that feature the Oregon Trail. The funds will be used to update the text of these kiosks to be more accurate and more comprehensively describe the landscapes and the people along the Oregon Trail—both those newly arriving as well as those who had already lived here for millennia.

For quotes from community-initiated project recipients included in the THUD bill, click HERE.

Other key funding in the THUD bill that passed the Senate with broad bipartisan support include:

Affordable Housing: As rural and urban communities across Oregon continue to experience housing crises, the bill includes an increase for affordable housing programs for some of Oregon’s most vulnerable people—low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities, including $8.875 billion for housing unit specific rental assistance. The THUD bill also protects funding for housing programs that benefit the elderly and people with disabilities.

Rural Housing: The Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP) and Rural Capacity Building Program received $13.5 million and $6 million, respectively. SHOP provides funds for non-profit sweat-equity homebuilders, such as Habitat for Humanity, to cover land purchases and infrastructure costs. The Rural Capacity funds are intended to build the capacity of rural low-income housing non-profits by providing training, information, technical assistance, and financing.

HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing: The program received an additional $30 million to provide rental assistance vouchers for homeless veterans, along with case management and clinical services. This increase will provide additional rental vouchers for veterans experiencing homelessness, and when combined with prior year appropriations and available unleased vouchers, has the potential to dramatically reduce veteran homelessness.

Homeless Assistance and Prevention: The THUD bill includes $3.9 billion for Homeless Assistance Grants, a $275 million increase that will benefit organizations across Oregon. Within that funding, rapid rehousing programs for victims of domestic violence would receive an additional $52 million; homeless youth programs would receive $107 million; and Emergency Solutions Grants—particularly important to the Portland metro area—will receive $290 million to support street outreach, emergency shelter, homelessness prevention, and rapid re-housing assistance.

HOME Investment Partnerships Program: The THUD bill includes $1.5 billion for the program to provide states and localities with flexible resources to respond to their affordable housing challenges, including rental housing and paths to homeownership for low-income families.

Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation: The program, also known as NeighborWorks America, received $168 million in the bill. The national nonprofit offers support for affordable housing and community development through public-private partnerships.

Community Development: The bipartisan THUD bill includes $3.3 billion for the Community Development Block Grant Program. This program funds vital housing rehabilitation, supportive services, public improvements and economic development projects in communities across Oregon and the nation while encouraging local investment.

Now the bill has cleared the Senate, it will next head to the U.S. House of Representatives. The final legislation to emerge from the process must then be passed by both chambers before it is signed into law.

Senators Merkley and Wyden urge the House to take up the legislation without delay to keep vital government systems and programs running and invest in targeted projects needed in communities across Oregon.

###

Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-eshoo-lesko-reintroduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-prevent-domestic-abusers-from-targeting-survivors-with-technology,"Wyden, Eshoo, Lesko Reintroduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Prevent Domestic Abusers from Targeting Survivors with Technology",2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore, and U.S. Representatives Anna G. Eshoo, D-Calif., and Debbie Lesko, R-Arizona, today reintroduced their bipartisan, bicameral legislation to help prevent domestic abusers from using technology to stalk, harass or control survivors.

“Domestic abuse survivors are already recovering from tough situations – they shouldn’t also have to worry about their abusers hacking their social media or tracking their location. Unfortunately, these frightening scenarios have become increasingly common, and yet, not enough is being done to support and protect survivors from this misuse of technology,” Wyden said. “Increased education, resources and services are essential to making sure survivors get the protection and care they need.”

“Technology has allowed domestic violence abusers to threaten, stalk, and harass with little effort and free tools.,” said Eshoo. “That makes the recovery process for survivors even more difficult and longer. It also makes it harder for advocates to support survivors since most of them are not tech professionals. Advocates report that domestic violence victims have low levels of confidence in being able to recognize and address technology-enabled abuse. Our legislation will provide resources to survivors and advocates to prevent and address this heinous psychological abuse.”

""I am a survivor of domestic violence, so I know firsthand the devastating impact it has on survivors and the difficulties they face as a result. As more capabilities and opportunities continue to be exploited for technology-enabled abuse of this tragically vulnerable population, our resolve must be even greater to ensure that these survivors receive the care and attention they deserve,” said Lesko. “I am grateful to again join this bipartisan coalition of legislators to show Congress’ unwavering devotion to every one of America’s brave survivors.”

Despite the seriousness and rise of technology-enabled abuse — especially during the COVID-19 pandemic — programs providing support to victims of intimate partner violence report low levels of confidence that survivors recognize or know how to prevent technology-enabled abuse. From the most basic social media platforms and phone-based apps to specialty spyware apps, technology-enabled abuse takes many forms and engaging in this type of abuse does not require huge financial resources or complex technological savvy.

The Tech Safety for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking Act would help close this gap in support by providing new grant funding to clinics and other partnerships focused on addressing domestic violence and technology-enabled abuse, as well as supporting new training and education to equip more organizations with the specialized services needed to help more survivors.

The legislation would take two significant actions to combat technology-enabled domestic abuse:

It would authorize a pilot project run by Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women to establish more tech-enabled abuse clinics. The grant program would provide $2 million grants for up to 15 clinics and other partnerships providing support to sexual and domestic violence victims who are experiencing technology-enabled abuse.

It would establish an additional grant program, also under the Office on Violence Against Women, for nonprofit organizations and institutions of higher education to develop and implement training and educational programs and technical assistance for organizations and individuals who provide support for victims of tech-enabled abuse.

Statements of Support

Ruth Glenn, CEO of Public Affairs, The National Domestic Violence Hotline: ""As technology becomes an even greater part of our lives, the ability of an abusive partner to leverage this technology to abuse, control, harass, and stalk a survivor continues to grow increasing the harm to survivors of domestic violence. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is proud to endorse the Tech Safety for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking Act introduced by Senator Wyden. This bill ensures that the systems who support survivors experiencing technology-related abuses have the necessary resources available to best serve those needing services.""

Thomas E. Kadri, Director of Policy and Legal Advocacy, Clinic to End Tech Abuse: ""People experiencing tech-enabled abuse often don’t know where to turn. Our clinic has helped hundreds of New Yorkers over the last few years, but survivors around the country urgently need assistance. This Act could expand access to similar support services and develop knowledge about evolving forms of tech-enabled abuse.""

Martina Shabram, PhD, Executive Director, Sexual Assault Support Services of Lane County, Oregon: ""The availability of new and emerging technological tools far outpaces the resources, services, and laws needed to combat perpetrators who use those technologies to facilitate their abuse of others. The Tech Safety for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking Act helps service providers catch up and build out the resources that survivors of technology-facilitated abuse deserve. Advocates are experts in providing trauma-informed, survivor-centered care, but we're not tech professionals! This act lets us bring together the multidisciplinary teams that we need to combat technology-facilitated abuse; advocates, tech experts, and survivors will be able to work together to create a safer world. On behalf of all of us at Sexual Assault Support Services, we thank Senator Wyden for the support he has provided for survivors of sexual violence throughout his career.""

The bill is endorsed by National Domestic Violence Hotline, National Network to End Domestic Violence, Legal Momentum, Clinic to End Tech Abuse, EndTAB, New Beginnings, Natalie Dolci of the Technology-Enabled Coercive Control Initiative (endorsed in her personal capacity), Oregon Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence, Sexual Assault Support Services of Oregon, Center for Hope and Safety of Oregon, and the Oregon Attorney General’s Sexual Assault Task Force.

The text of the bill is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-whitehouse-launch-investigation-into-climate-change-fueled-insurance-crisis,"Wyden, Whitehouse Launch Investigation into Climate Change-Fueled Insurance Crisis",2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) said today that he and U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) have launched an investigation into how insurance companies are navigating mounting risks from climate change, including where companies will next pull coverage or raise premiums.

The inquiry from Wyden, a member of the Senate Budget Committee; and Whitehouse, Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, builds on a related investigation the committee launched in June into the U.S. insurance industry’s decisions to continue investing in and underwriting fossil fuel expansion projects that drive climate change.

In light of the economy-wide harms from widespread uninsurability, the senators sent letters to the 20 largest private sector insurance companies in California, Louisiana, Florida, and Texas—a total of 40 companies—to request documents and information related to the companies’ plans to address increased underwriting losses from climate disasters.

“The Committee is increasingly concerned about the potential economic consequences of an eventual widescale decline in property values caused by increasing exposure to climate risks and the attendant increase in insurance premiums and decrease in insurance availability,” the senators wrote. “Should such a situation come to pass, the effects on households—and federal revenues and spending—would be quite damaging and long-lasting, as we saw during and after the 2008 financial crisis.”

Among other requests, the senators are seeking information related to the following:

Current consideration of risks from climate-related extreme weather events, sea level rise, and/or wildfires when determining property and casualty insurance premiums for homes, rental units, automobiles, commercial properties, and/or crops;

Premium rate forecasts over the next five years;

Climate-related threats to company solvency; and

A list of all counties (or county equivalents) in the United States in which the subject company has not renewed a minimum threshold of homeowners’ policies in years 2018 through 2023.

The committee has held a series of hearings on the economic toll of climate change. Insurance industry executives, economists, actuaries, and other experts have testified that climate change could trigger cascading failures that undermine financial and economic stability. Their testimony has made clear that:

Climate-related losses have already grown substantially and are projected to continue to rise;

As climate-related risks increase, insurance premiums will increase and/or insurers will pull out of at-risk markets;

As insurance becomes increasingly expensive and/or unavailable, property values in affected markets will decline;

Insurance unavailability will cause affected properties to become unmortgageable; and

A widescale decline in coastal and wildland-urban interface (WUI) community property values would present a systemic risk to the U.S. economy, similar to what occurred in the 2007-2008 mortgage meltdown.

Letters were sent to American International Group, Allied Trust, American Integrity, Allstate, American Family, AmTrust, Auto Club Enterprises, AXA, Berkshire Hathaway, Chubb, CNA, CSAA, Fairfax, Farmers, Florida Peninsula, First Protective, Gulf States, Hartford, Heritage, Homeowners of America, Homeowners Choice, Kemper, Louisiana Farm Bureau, Liberty Mutual, Mercury General, Nationwide, Olympus, People’s Trust, Progressive, Security First, Shelter Mutual, Slide, State Farm, SURE, Tokio Marine, Tower Hill, Travelers, Universal Insurance Holdings, USAA, and Zurich. The companies have until November 17, 2023, to respond to the committee’s request.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/farms-food-and-fiber-merkley-wyden-announce-senate-passage-of-major-investments-for-oregon-agriculture-and-rural-communities,"Farms, Food, and Fiber: Merkley, Wyden Announce Senate Passage of Major Investments for Oregon Agriculture and Rural Communities",2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Funding included in the fiscal year 2024 Senate agriculture funding bill champions family farms, rural housing, broadband, and more

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced major investments in Oregon agriculture, rural housing, food assistance, and rural business priorities has passed the Senate, including more than $5 million in funding for Oregon community-initiated projects.

The investments were included in the FY24 Senate Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies bill, which cleared the full chamber with strong bipartisan support.

The federal funding in this legislation will support programs and projects that benefit farms, families, and rural communities throughout the state.

“Agriculture is a huge part of Oregon’s economy, and it’s essential to ensure our world-class agriculture sector and rural communities have the support needed to grow and thrive,” said Merkley, who previously served as the top Democrat on the Appropriations subcommittee that writes the agriculture bill. “This agriculture bill includes significant investments for family farms, rural housing, food assistance, habitat restoration, and wildfire smoke recovery. The legislation also prioritizes making Oregon’s agriculture more resilient to the impacts of climate chaos to protect the livelihoods of our farmers, ranchers, and producers. These huge investments will benefit Oregon’s farms and families for years to come, and I will keep championing them in Congress until they become law.”

“One of the things Oregon does best is grow things, and investing in farmers and rural life is essential to keep cultivating our state’s world-renowned agriculture,” Wyden said. “As I’ve met throughout this year with Oregonians who grow our state’s bounty, I’ve heard consistently about the need for federal investments that combat drought and wildfire smoke hurting their livelihoods, expand rural broadband, support housing in small communities and more. I’m glad this legislation helps achieve those goals and I’ll continue pressing the case until this gets over the finish line.”

Merkley is the only Oregon member of Congress from either chamber since Senator Mark Hatfield to serve on the Appropriations Committee, which wrote the bill and is one of the most powerful on Capitol Hill. He joined the committee in 2013 so that Oregon would have a strong voice in decisions about the investments our nation should be making.

Senators Merkley and Wyden secured investments for five Oregon community-initiated projects in the Senate’s agriculture funding bill, which are as follows:

$3 million for the Arnold Irrigation District in Deschutes County to help complete the third phase and begin the final phase of its resiliency and modernization project. As persistent drought continues to impact the Deschutes Basin, these irrigation modernization efforts will better serve farmers and ranchers and strengthen habitat for wildlife, making the region more resilient to climate chaos.

$2 million for the North Unit Irrigation District in Jefferson County to begin its irrigation modernization project, which will transition open ditch irrigation canals to buried pressurized piping. This infrastructure modernization project will lead to significant water savings that benefit farmers, ranchers, and wildlife.

$250,000 for the Condon Arts Council to restore the historic Liberty Theatre in downtown Condon. The rehabilitated theatre will serve as a regional hub for performing arts events and community arts programs for Oregonians living in Gilliam County and beyond.

$113,000 for the Grant County CyberMill Expansion project in John Day to support more equitable internet access for rural Oregonians. The federal funding will be used for distance learning, telemedicine, and broadband equipment and technology.

$76,000 for the South Lane Mental Health Center to help modernize their existing facilities, including a new roof, a new computer server, and security upgrades. These upgrades will benefit patients and staff by providing a safer, cleaner environment.

Click HERE for quotes from community-initiated project recipients included in the Senate agriculture bill.

Other key funding for Oregon’s world-class agriculture that passed out of the Senate with broad bipartisan support includes:

Water Conservation and Habitat Restoration: The bill includes $90.4 million for the Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations, including $20 million set aside for multi-benefit projects, which benefit Western states. In Oregon, this funding is primarily used to replace open irrigation ditches with pipes and is crucial for irrigation districts that need to improve water efficiency and conservation or otherwise improve fish and wildlife habitat. This program is providing critical funding for the collaborative processes underway across the state working to conserve water and keep Oregon’s family farms in business while improving the habitats of endangered species.

Wine Grape Smoke Exposure Research: Recent wildfire seasons have blanketed much of Oregon with thick, hazardous smoke, which has significantly impacted the state’s wine grape harvest. To better understand and address the challenges facing Oregon’s wine growers, the bill includes level funding at $4.5 million for research into smoke-impacted grapes at Oregon State University (OSU) and other West Coast universities.

Vineyard and Orchard Acreage Study: The bill encourages the Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) to resume data collection and reporting on vineyards and orchards, so that Oregon’s grape, wine, and juice producers can use this important data to remain competitive.

Hemp Production Systems: The bill provides $4 million for Agricultural Research Services to partner with institutions conducting biotech and genomics research to improve hemp genetic research and breeding with new techniques. Hemp has quickly become one of Oregon’s leading cash crops, and indicators suggest it has the potential to bring in more than $1 billion in sales to Oregon in the coming years given a fair and consistent regulatory framework.

Rangeland Precision Livestock Management: The bill includes $4 million to promote economically efficient and environmentally responsive livestock production systems for the Western rangeland. The bill supports precision nutrition strategies for rangeland-based livestock as well as technology-based rangeland and livestock management strategies to optimize the health and productivity of Western rangeland ecosystem.

Oregon Agricultural Research and Facilities Investment: The Agricultural Research Service is receiving $88 million in funding for cutting-edge research to improve the productivity, sustainability, and health of the nation’s agricultural systems. In addition, funding was secured for key Oregon agriculture research programs, including funding for research on the Sudden Oak Death pathogen plaguing Oregon’s South Coast. Other research funding victories include research for alfalfa, barley, tree fruits, pear, wheat, hops, hemp, apple, shellfish, small fruits, seaweed, floriculture, nurseries, and rangeland ecology.

Rural Housing: The bill includes $1.6 billion for rental assistance and $48 million for Rural Housing Service Vouchers, which will help address the urgent affordable housing crisis facing Oregon’s rural communities.

Rural Energy Saving Program: Senator Merkley successfully protected the RESP program from drastic cuts and secured $10.7 million in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2023. The program—which provides funding to rural utilities and other companies to increase energy efficiency—was created by Senator Merkley, who prioritized getting the funding needed to kickstart the program when he was the top Democrat on the Agriculture subcommittee. The funding from this bill would be leveraged for an additional $60 million in investment.

Rural Business: The bill includes funding for a number of USDA’s Rural Development programs, including $77.7 million for business development programs. These business development programs help businesses grow as well as provide job training for rural America.

Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): The bill provides $6.3 billion for WIC which provides free food packages designed to safeguard the health of pregnant, breast-feeding, and postpartum women and infants who are at nutrition risk because of inadequate nutrition.

Now the bill has cleared the Senate, it will next head to the U.S. House of Representatives. The final legislation to emerge from the process must then be passed by both chambers before it is signed into law.

Senators Merkley and Wyden urge the House to take up the legislation without delay to keep vital government systems and programs running and invest in targeted projects needed in communities across Oregon.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-bonamici-hoyle-announce-over-36-million-to-improve-coastal-ports-in-oregon,"Merkley, Wyden, Bonamici, Hoyle Announce Over $36 Million to Improve Coastal Ports in Oregon",2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) and Val Hoyle (OR-04), announced a total of $36,489,508 in federal investments heading to the ports of Astoria, Coquille Indian Tribe’s Ko’Kwel Wharf, and Newport.

“Ports play a crucial role in keeping the economies of Oregon and the entire Pacific Northwest running smoothly—transporting goods, people, and services throughout our region—and we rely on them to export our amazing, homegrown products around the world,” Merkley said. “This funding will provide crucial support to Astoria, the Coquille Indian Tribe, and Newport to improve existing infrastructure, increase storage capabilities, and bolster security while improving operational capacity for these critical ports.”

“Oregon’s ports produce jobs and act as economic linchpins for their communities as well as the entire state economy,” Wyden said. “I’m glad these three ports have secured these significant federal infrastructure investments to ensure they can keep exporting our state’s world-renowned products as well as generating economic opportunities for Newport, Astoria, the Coquille Indian Tribe and beyond.”

“Pier 2 West in Astoria is crucial to the region’s economy, but the structure has been deteriorating over the years,” said Rep. Bonamici. “I’m thrilled that the Port of Astoria will receive close to $25.3 million from USDOT to make overdue repairs to this essential infrastructure.”

“I'm thrilled that the Port of Newport will be receiving this important grant to upgrade its port infrastructure,"" said Rep. Hoyle. “This is exactly the type of support that the federal government should be providing to Oregon's ports, which are essential for local jobs and businesses on the Oregon coast. I will continue to strongly support investment in Oregon’s coastal communities.”

This past spring, Senators Merkley and Wyden and Rep. Bonamici sent a letter to U.S. Maritime Administration urging their support for the Port of Astoria’s rehabilitation project application as well as a letter of support from Merkley and Wyden for the Newport operational capacity project application. Today’s federal investments come from the Fiscal Year 2023 Port Infrastructure Development Program.

“The Port of Astoria is extremely grateful to be a recipient of Port Infrastructure Development Program funding through MARAD for the rehabilitation of Pier 2 on the Astoria waterfront,” said Will Isom, Port of Astoria, Executive Director. “The seafood processing cluster on Pier 2 is vital to the Port, the City of Astoria and the entire region. Federal investment into this infrastructure was critical for its future and will help provide a safe, economically viable pier for generations to come!”

“The Coquille Indian Tribe is proud to take part in the nationwide effort to rebuild our port infrastructure. With this funding, our Tribal One team will continue their work to rebuild Ko’Kwel Wharf as a productive and reliable economic resource that will help secure the future of the Coquille Tribe and our North Bend community and become a valuable member of the nation’s maritime industry,” said Brenda Meade, Chairman, Coquille Indian Tribe.

""The Port of Newport greatly appreciates the support of our Federal Legislators and the Maritime Administration for this investment in our International Terminal. We are also grateful for our State Legislators, stakeholders and community for years of investment in our terminal. This will allow us to expand our operational capacity through the purchase of equipment and the improvement of a nine-acre parcel for lay-down purposes. These enhancements make the Port more attractive to prospective customers and support economic opportunity in Lincoln County,"" said Paula Miranda, Port of Newport, Executive Director.

Oregon projects funding and descriptions can be found below:

$25,315,758 to Port of Astoria: This project funds the rehabilitation of the Port of Astoria’s Pier 2 West – the region’s hub for seafood processing and maritime commerce – which is in critical need of repairs and rehabilitation. Project elements include: (1) a new steel bulkhead wall with a 75 year lifespan and that will include a new fendering system, 50 ton double bitt bollards, and a cast-in-place concrete bullrail; (2) removal of the old timber dock; (3) backfill; (4) underpinning of the Pier 2 warehouse; (5) warehouse building concrete slab repairs; (6) new concrete pavement on the pier surface; (7) construction of a stormwater drainage system; and (8) replacement of a water line and fire hydrants adjacent to the warehouse for fire protection of Pier 2.

$7,729,650 to Coquille Indian Tribe: This project funds the following three components: (1) repairs of the dock face along Lot 2 of Ko’Kwel Wharf that will bring the entire dock area up to safe operating standards and open opportunities for new uses of the terminal and wharf facility; (2) bring 800-amp service and a shore power outlet box to the wharf to reduce or eliminate the need for idling diesel engines; and (3) support development phase activities leading to the construction of a 600’-700’ extension of the Ko’Kwel Wharf dock.

$3,444,100 to Port of Newport: This project and funding will support the Port of Newport in the grading of 9 acres of land adjacent to the port’s existing Newport International Terminal to create additional laydown and storage space; fence three acres of land for increased security; and purchase two loaders to load, unload and move cargo within and around the port, especially breakbulk cargo, which the port's current cargo handling equipment is not well suited to safely and efficiently handle. These improvements to the Newport International Terminal enable the Port of Newport to continue to support the economic development and prosperity of the Oregon Coast.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-urge-good-faith-negotiations-between-the-portland-association-of-teachers-and-portland-public-schools,"Merkley, Wyden Urge Good Faith Negotiations Between the Portland Association of Teachers and Portland Public Schools",2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden issued the following statement, urging the Portland Association of Teachers and the Portland Public Schools Board of Education to continue bargaining in good faith amid the first-ever teachers’ strike in the district:

“Over the last three years, our educators have strived to maintain a quality, equitable education program for our children through the enormous difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic. They have been underpaid and overstressed, and we strongly affirm our support for Portland’s educators exercising their right to strike for an equitable collective bargaining agreement.

“At the same time, we urge leadership from both the Portland Association of Teachers and Portland Public Schools to continue working in good faith toward an agreement that addresses a number of key issues, including class size, salaries and benefits, safety in the classroom, stronger equity programs, and expanded services for early learning and special education.

“With deeply committed, skilled educators and a dedicated Board of Education and administration, we are confident both sides can reach a contract that ensures students are appropriately served, educators are fairly compensated, and community priorities are honored for years to come.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-praises-decision-to-expand-access-to-federal-broadband-program-for-rural-and-underserved-areas,Wyden Praises Decision to Expand Access to Federal Broadband Program for Rural and Underserved Areas,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Administration Announcement Comes After Repeated Pressure From Wyden to Increase Flexibility for Participation in the Federal BEAD program

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today praised an announcement by the National Telecommunications Information Administration (NTIA) to help small internet service providers (ISPs) invest in rural and underserved communities across Oregon, by making it easier for them to participate in the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program.

Oregon will receive a record $689 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s BEAD program to expand access to broadband internet to rural and underserved communities – the largest single broadband grant in Oregon’s history. NTIA, which is administering the BEAD program at the federal level, had previously required a large financial guarantee from broadband providers, called an irrevocable letter of credit, to participate in the BEAD program. Wyden warned the administration that its policy risked excluding many small, rural, and diverse ISPs across Oregon, as well as nonprofits and municipalities, all of whose participation in the program is vital to its success.

“Today’s announcement out of NTIA is great news for communities across Oregon, who will be better able to access critical federal funding to boost broadband access in rural and underserved areas of our state,” Wyden said. “Once again, Assistant Secretary Alan Davidson listened to Oregonians and took steps to address their needs, so my constituents can get a fair shake. I’ll be counting on this partnership to continue until every Oregonian has access to reliable, affordable, high-quality broadband.”

NTIA’s announcement will give internet service providers much more flexibility to qualify for the BEAD program, including by allowing Oregon’s credit unions to participate. It will also permit the use of performance bonds, as an alternative to the letter of credit. Additionally, it will also allow the Oregon Broadband Office to reduce obligations on certain ISPs provided they meet provided deployment milestones.

“We thank Senator Wyden and NTIA for their tireless efforts to ensure our smaller and medium sized ISPs are able to fully participate in the BEAD program to bring access to all Oregonians currently lacking high-speed, reliable broadband internet” said Oregon Broadband Office Director Nick Batz.

“Obtaining an irrevocable letter of credit posed challenges perhaps unique to our small, rural broadband providers operating throughout Oregon,” said Brant Wolf, executive vice president of the Oregon Telecommunications Association. “The relief granted by NTIA will go a long way toward ensuring BEAD program funding is used in the highest, best manner in rural and frontier areas of Oregon! Access to the internet using fiber will provide these rural areas and communities with the highest speed possible, ensuring their place and participation in the 21st century economy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-successfully-presses-the-international-trade-administration-to-prevent-the-promotion-of-surveillance-technology-to-foreign-governments,Wyden Successfully Presses the International Trade Administration to Prevent the Promotion of Surveillance Technology to Foreign Governments,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"In a letter to Wyden, the Commerce Department details new policies that would help ensure export promotion efforts do not violate human rights

Washington, D.C.— Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today released the following statement in response to a Commerce Department letter detailing new policies the International Trade Administration (ITA) has implemented to prevent the promotion of surveillance technology to foreign governments:

“I appreciate the Commerce Department's thoughtful response to my inquiry. For the first time the Department is making clear that the United States will not help companies find foreign markets for products or services that undermine democracy or enable repressive surveillance and discrimination. While I remain concerned about the U.S. government’s prior promotion of these technologies, I look forward to monitoring the implementation of these new policies and ensuring they are followed in practice.”

In May, Wyden sent a letter calling on the ITA to answer questions about its promotion of dangerous surveillance technology in foreign markets, and explain what steps it is taking to prevent such technology sales from harming human rights.

Wyden chairs the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over international trade policy. He first requested information from ITA about its activity promoting the sale of surveillance technology abroad in May 2022. The agency informed Wyden’s office last year it had promoted the sale of surveillance technology, but declined to share which products it promoted, or which foreign markets it targeted. In March 2023 ITA informed Wyden’s office that it had issued a new policy to restrict promotion of surveillance products, but refused to share that policy without a formal letter.

The ITA is a component of the Department of Commerce responsible for promoting the sale of American products and services in foreign countries.

Read the Commerce Department’s letter to Wyden here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-hoyle-oregon-to-receive-nearly-27-million-to-improve-road-safety,"Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle: Oregon to Receive Nearly $2.7 Million to Improve Road Safety",2023-10-30,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Cities of Medford, Corvallis. Eugene, Bend and Stayton as well as Crook, Benton, Deschutes counties and Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs to benefit

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley along with U.S. Representative Val Hoyle today announced nearly $2.7 million in federal funds for cities, counties and Tribes in Oregon to help plan road improvements and transportation safety.

“This is exactly the type of investment I fought for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law because it will directly save Oregonians’ lives on our state’s busiest roadways ,” Wyden said. “I am committed to making our streets in Oregon and across the nation as safe as possible for this generation and the next.”

“Oregonians in every corner of the state deserve safe streets in their communities,” said Merkley. “These investments will transform Oregon’s roadways into safer places for bicyclists, pedestrians, and drivers. I will continue working to ensure every Oregonian is able to move about their daily lives conveniently, without fear of accident or injury.”

“These projects mark a significant step forward to help ensure safer roads and streets for every Oregonian. I’m proud that our communities, including Benton County and the Cities of Corvallis and Eugene, are taking proactive measures to enhance safety for all modes of transportation.” said Congresswoman Hoyle. “These initiatives not only safeguard our residents, they also promote equitable access and mobility for all.”

The $2.65 million in federal funds come from the federal Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All Planning Grant program through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will be distributed as follows in Oregon:

City of Medford - $400,000

Crook County - $96,000

The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs - $320,000

Deschutes County - $144,000

Benton County - $320,000

City of Corvallis - $664,000

City of Eugene - $384,000

Bend Metropolitan Planning Organization - $200,000

City of Stayton - $120,000

“This grant will allow the City to move forward with critical evaluation and planning efforts which will allow the City to strategically incorporate safety improvements in our transportation investments,” said Corvallis Mayor Charles Maughan.

“Improving walking and biking conditions to and from transit stops through this project will play a vital role in supporting sustainable transportation trips and mitigating future greenhouse gas emissions,” said Jenifer Willer, City of Eugene Engineering Division manager. “Eugene is grateful for this award and for the support of Oregon’s congressional representatives.""

""Benton County, Oregon's SS4A Planning Grant for a Safety Action Plan is a crucial step towards enhancing safety and accessibility for all transportation users in this vibrant region we call home. With a population of over 92,000, from the high volume of commuters to the growing number of cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, Benton County faces a unique blend of transportation needs. The Safety Action Plan seeks to address these challenges in a comprehensive and responsible way,” said Benton County Commissioner Pat Malone.

“Road safety is a priority for Crook County. This grant will help us develop a plan to ensure safe roads for years to come,” said Crook County Judge Seth Crawford.

""We are thrilled to receive federal SS4A funding to update our Transportation Safety Action Plan (TSAP),” said Tony DeBone, Deschutes County Commissioner. “The TSAP update will allow us to identify emerging safety issues in our system and utilize low cost improvements and non-infrastructure investment opportunities to improve the safety of our transportation system.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-murray-sanders-baldwin-lead-44-senators-in-urging-the-biden-administration-to-require-insurers-to-fully-cover-over-the-counter-birth-control-with-no-out-of-pocket-costs-or-prescription-barrier,"Wyden, Murray, Sanders, Baldwin Lead 44 Senators in Urging the Biden Administration to Require Insurers to Fully Cover Over-the-Counter Birth Control, With No Out-of-Pocket Costs or Prescription Barrier",2023-10-30,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"More than two-thirds of voters across parties support birth control pills being sold over-the-counter

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) led 44 of their Senate colleagues today in sending a letter urging the Biden Administration to require federally and state-regulated health insurance plans to fully cover over-the-counter contraceptives, including Opill—the first-ever FDA-approved over-the-counter birth control pill, which will become available in early 2024—with no copays or out of pocket costs, and without a prescription requirement.

“We urge you to improve health insurance coverage, both public and private, of the full range of FDA-approved, granted, or cleared contraceptive products—including birth control that is available over-the-counter (OTC) without requiring a prescription for coverage,” the senators wrote today in their letter to Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, Department of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and the Department of Labor Acting Secretary Julie Su. “Over 19 million women live in counties with limited access to health care providers that offer comprehensive contraceptive services, and about one-third of women who have received prescription contraceptives have reported barriers to access. Expanding access to affordable coverage for eligible, uninsured populations would improve the quality of contraceptive care that patients receive.”

“The availability of safe and effective OTC birth control products has enormous potential to help people overcome significant barriers to consistent contraceptive use, including the many logistical and financial challenges to obtaining a prescription. The FDA’s approval of Opill is a milestone; however, for an OTC birth control pill to meet its potential and be truly accessible, federal departments must ensure that it is covered without cost-sharing and without the need for a prescription as a condition of coverage,” the senators continued.

“To expand access to affordable contraception, we urge the tri-departments to issue new guidance that reflects current HRSA guidelines and clarifies that federally and state-regulated private health plans must cover OTC contraceptive products without cost-sharing, including when purchased without a prescription… Given the increased need for access to contraception in the wake of the Dobbs decision, this issue is incredibly timely and important,” the senators wrote.

Dana Singiser, co-founder of the Contraceptive Access Initiative said: “It makes no sense to cover contraception when obtained with a prescription, and not cover it without—the enormous health benefits are the same. People should be able to use their insurance coverage for birth control pills whether they get it by prescription from a medical provider or whether they simply purchase it off the shelf at a pharmacy. I applaud Senators Murray, Baldwin, Sanders, and Wyden and their Senate colleagues for raising their collective voices to help ensure that over-the-counter contraception is financially accessible.”

In addition to Senators Wyden, Murray, Sanders and Baldwin, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tom Carper (D-DE), Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Richard Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Jon Tester (D-MT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-demand-answers-from-tax-prep-companies-after-ftc-warns-of-improper-sharing-of-confidential-data,"Wyden, Colleagues Demand Answers from Tax Prep Companies After FTC Warns of Improper Sharing of Confidential Data",2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he and six congressional colleagues are demanding answers from five tax preparation companies that recently received notices of penalty offenses from the Federal Trade Commission.

The lawmakers sought those answers in letters sent to H&R Block, TaxAct, TaxSlayer, Ramsey Solutions, and Intuit regarding the improper sharing of taxpayer’s sensitive and confidential information with Meta (formerly Facebook Inc.).

“The FTC’s warning followed the release of our months-long investigation revealing that major tax preparation companies sent tens of millions of Americans’ sensitive personal data to Meta without providing appropriate disclosures or obtaining taxpayer consent—in apparent violation of taxpayer privacy laws,” the lawmakers wrote. “Accordingly, we write to confirm that, in accordance with the FTC’s notice of penalty offenses, your company is not engaged and will not be engaged in any further abuses of taxpayer privacy.”

In their letters, lawmakers reiterated their support for Direct File, an IRS initiative that would let Americans file their taxes online and directly with the federal government for free. They also asked a series of questions to determine whether the tax preparation companies have been and will be compliant with the FTC’s recent notice and to further ensure that taxpayer privacy will not be violated in this way again. They have demanded answers by Nov. 8, 2023.

In addition to Wyden, other lawmakers signing the letters were U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.); Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.); Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.); Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.); and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.); and U.S. Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-51-million-to-improve-air-quality-in-oregon,"Wyden, Merkley Announce $5.1 Million to Improve Air Quality in Oregon",2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Federal investment to help Klamath County and Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

Washington D.C. - U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that Klamath County Public Health and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation have secured a combined $5.1 million in federal funds for air quality.

“This federal investment packs a one-two punch because it improves overall air quality and helps Oregonians get efficient heat sources to replace their wood-burning units,” Wyden said. “That adds up to a huge win for quality of life in Klamath County as well as for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.”

“These critical investments will be used to help ensure folks in Klamath County and on the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla Indian Reservation have the support and innovation to better monitor and improve air quality,” said Senator Merkley. “Air pollution often goes unnoticed, but can contribute greatly to chronic health conditions. This funding will help improve health outcomes and quality of life for thousands of Oregonians.""

The $4.67 million from the Environmental Protection Agency will go to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality to partner with Klamath County Public Health, allowing the two agencies to change out around 300 woodstoves and weatherize 100 houses in Klamath County, with a focus on improving services to underserved populations who rely on wood for heat. As part of the $4.67 million, $323,630 in utility assistance will be granted to low-income applicants who change out their woodstoves through the program.

An additional $451,250 in EPA funding will go to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation for air quality monitoring.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-bonamici-salinas-urge-inclusion-of-chips-permitting-reform-in-defense-bill,"Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Salinas Urge Inclusion of CHIPS Permitting Reform in Defense Bill",2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley as well as U.S. Reps. Suzanne Bonamici and Andrea Salinas said today they are joining more than 100 congressional colleagues to urge leaders of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees to preserve the Building Chips in America Act in the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

The chips permitting bill, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support as an amendment to the Senate NDAA in July, streamlines National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review requirements for semiconductor manufacturing projects to maximize the impact of the CHIPS and Science Act in Oregon and nationwide. The permitting bill by U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) clarifies the scope of NEPA reviews while keeping in place state and federal protections for clean air and clean water.

Senate and House leaders are preparing to negotiate a final, compromise version of the NDAA that could pass both chambers and be signed into law. The letter signed by Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici and Salinas and their colleagues urges Senate and House leaders to maintain the Senate-passed microchip permitting reforms in that final version.

“Historically, NEPA reviews apply to projects that receive a significant portion of federal funding, giving the Federal government sufficient control over the project’s outcome. This is not the case for the CHIPS program,” the lawmakers wrote.

Federal funding for CHIPS Act projects will comprise a minimal share of the cost, but would still be deemed “major federal actions.”

“This could halt or delay commencement of new projects, impacting the United States’ ability to bolster its national security interests, economic growth, competitiveness, and technological leadership,” the lawmakers’ letter continued.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-and-merkley-announce-energy-assistance-for-oregonians,Wyden and Merkley Announce Federal Energy Assistance for Oregonians,2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Oregon Awarded $40.2 Million from Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

Washington D.C. - U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that Oregon was awarded $40.2 million in federal funding to help low-income households and Tribes pay for energy bills, prevent utility shut-offs and more.

“With temperatures forecast to drop near or below freezing this weekend in Oregon, this assistance is especially timely,” Wyden said. “These federal funds will help Oregonians already struggling to make the choice between paying for utilities or food. Maintaining a warm home in cold weather is crucial, especially for households with young children, older adults, and people with disabilities.”

“Countless Oregon families are living paycheck-to-paycheck and struggling to pay their monthly bills,” said Merkley. “The assistance from the LIHEAP program will keep the homes of Oregonians warm this winter and help ease the financial burden of rising utility costs.”

Administered through the Administration for Children and Families’ Office of Community Services at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, this funding from Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income households pay home heating and cooling bills, prevent energy shutoffs, restore services, make minor energy-related home repairs, and weatherize homes to make them more energy efficient.

Of the $40.2 million, LIHEAP is funding $38,447,662 to the state, with $639,111 going directly to Tribes; $1,140,973 came from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“The LIHEAP program is absolutely critical for many low-income Warm Springs residents who face extremely hot summers and cold winters. We are deeply appreciative for this federal assistance for our tribal membership,” said Tribal Council Chairman Jonathan Smith.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-thune-reintroduce-tribal-child-support-enforcement-act,"Wyden, Thune Reintroduce Tribal Child Support Enforcement Act",2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and John Thune (R-S.D.), today reintroduced the Tribal Child Support Enforcement Act, which would improve child support enforcement for tribal child support agencies by allowing the more than 60 tribes that operate their own child-support programs to access the Federal Tax Refund Offset Program, which lets them collect past-due child support from non-custodial parents.

The bill would also, among other things, create parity between tribes and states by ensuring tribal child support agencies have access to the same information as states do to administer their child support programs.

“Tribes in Oregon and nationwide need and deserve the same abilities as state child support agencies to ensure families can recover past-due child support payments,” said Wyden, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee. “This common-sense, bipartisan bill takes a significant step to ensure Tribal youngsters aren’t deprived of financial support that can be used for food, housing and other essentials that add up to the healthiest and safest possible childhood.”

“Tribal child support agencies do not currently have access to certain federal programs and information that would make it easier for them to collect past-due child support from non-custodial parents,” said Thune, ranking member of the Subcommittee on Taxation and Internal Revenue Service Oversight. “By ensuring that tribes have the same access to these programs and information as states, we can help Native American families in South Dakota – and across the country – receive the child support payments that they are owed, and also put tribal and state programs on equal footing.”

“The National Child Support Engagement Association (NCSEA) has long-supported this legislation to provide our tribal partners with the same tax offset tools that states have as well as give all child support agencies necessary access to tax information to further support children,” said Erin Frisch, president of NCSEA. “This legislation is our top priority this year and we are pleased to see the bipartisan support for the measure.”

“The Nation Tribal Child Support Association (NTCSA) supports the legislation to provide tribal child support programs with the Federal Tax Offset Program,” said Sand Cloer, president of NTCSA. “Our state partners have has this tool for many years. Tribal child support programs continue to work hard for our Indian children in order to afford them the same financial opportunities as all other children. This legislation is vital to our programs.”

“The economic, political, and social linkages between our Tribe and children are critical and often ignored at the children’s peril,” said Gregg Duffek, president of the National Association of Tribal Child Support Directors. “With passage of this critical legislation, we will be able to provide greater enforcement of child support for our families. We applaud the efforts of Senator Thune and Chairman Wyden for continuing to support tribal families.”

States have several enforcement methods at their disposal to enforce child support, one being the Federal Tax Refund Offset Program. With this program, when a non-custodial parent is due a refund but owes past-due child support, the U.S. Department of the Treasury can withhold the tax refund and send it to the child support agency to get it to the family.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-votes-no-on-reckless-removal-of-us-troops-in-niger,Wyden Votes No on Reckless Removal of U.S. Troops in Niger,2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., issued the following statement after voting against a resolution directing the removal of U.S. Armed Forces from the Republic of Niger:

“I voted against this resolution, which recklessly removes U.S. troops combating terrorism from the Republic of Niger and the wider region within 30 days. A sudden withdrawal would not only send a harmful message to our partners in West Africa who rely on our support to curb violent extremism, but it would also make it easier for Russian-affiliated mercenaries to deploy to Niger and commit additional atrocities. While I could not in good conscience support this resolution, I urge President Biden to quickly update his plan and seek explicit congressional approval for the U.S. presence in the region. Oregonians can rest assured that I remain steadfast in my commitment to assert Congress’ authority to declare or not declare war and to end forever-wars.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/key-committee-holds-hearing-on-bill-that-provides-critical-funding-to-oregon-counties,Key Committee Holds Hearing on Bill that Provides Critical Funding to Oregon Counties,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"The Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act provides funding for schools, roads, and other essential services

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today applauded the Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining for holding a hearing on the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act—bipartisan legislation that Wyden co-leads with Senators Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., and James Risch, R-Idaho.

The legislation would invest in rural communities across Oregon and the nation for essential services such as education, road maintenance, search and rescue, wildfire prevention and watershed restoration by reauthorizing the U.S. Forest Service Secure Rural Schools and Self-Determination Program (SRS) through 2026.

“The Secure Rural Schools program has been a vital lifeline for rural counties in Oregon and nationwide, but lapses in Congressional action leave rural counties dangling on an annual fiscal cliff,” Wyden said. “Reauthorizing Secure Rural Schools is critical and necessary to support education, road maintenance, forest and watershed health, fire prevention, search and rescue, and other essential services in rural communities. That’s why I’m working hard to continue this important program, and I applaud ENR Subcommittee Chair Catherine Cortez Masto for aiding in this effort by holding a hearing on my bill. Reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools is one step closer to the finish line.”

Since Wyden first authored the program in 2000, SRS has provided nearly $4 billion to Oregon counties. To preserve this vital lifeline for rural communities, Secure Rural Schools must be reauthorized in fiscal year 2024.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-join-colleagues-urging-the-fcc-to-improve-access-to-local-journalism,"Merkley, Wyden Join Colleagues Urging the FCC to Improve Access to Local Journalism",2023-10-24,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden joined colleagues in a letter urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to improve access to local media on streaming platforms. Current law and FCC rules state that traditional cable and satellite networks must work directly with a local television station before broadcasting local news, sports, and other programming. However, linear streaming services over the internet are not required to negotiate directly with local television stations.

Streaming services have a large and growing portion of the video media market as consumers are switching from traditional television providers, like cable and satellite TV, to streaming services over the internet. In 2014, nearly 9 in 10 households subscribed to cable or satellite. In 2023, fewer than half of families are subscribed. As streaming services surge, it is critical for Congress to ensure consumers have continued access to local journalism.

“Internet-based streaming services now have a sizable portion of the video programming distribution market – and this is only expected to grow as streaming companies actively urge consumers to switch from traditional television providers like cable and satellite TV to virtual offerings and other video streaming services. The shift from broadcast, cable, and satellite to streaming has profound impact on existing laws, regulations, and agreements that have been foundational in support of public safety and access to local news,” wrote the Senators.

The Senators continued, “In light of these marketplace changes, we urge the Commission to examine the video marketplace and seriously consider how it can ensure the viability of local broadcast stations and promote localism.”

This letter is led by U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and – along with Merkley and Wyden – is signed by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Michael Bennett (D-Colo.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Angus King (I-Maine), Elizabeth Warren, (D-Mass.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.).

Full text of the letter is available HERE and below:

Dear Chairwoman Rosenworcel, Commissioner Carr, Commissioner Starks, Commissioner Simington, and Commissioner Gomez:

We write today out of concern for the future of the media market and our constituents’ ability to access broadcasters’ unique locally-focused content on streaming platforms, otherwise known as virtual multichannel video programming distributor (vMVPDs).

Under current law and Commission rules, a traditional cable system or other multichannel video programming distributor (MVPD) must gain consent from a local television station before retransmitting its signal. This retransmission consent system was the centerpiece of Congress’s commitment in the Cable Television Consumer Protection and Competition Act to providing local television stations the ability to offer American viewers more locally-focused programming. In 2014, the Commission initiated a proceeding to evaluate the potential modernization of the definition of MVPD to include streaming platforms that offer linear multichannel programming. Virtual MVPDs are not subject to the same regulatory requirements as traditional distributors, including with respect to retransmission consent and requirements to negotiate directly with local television stations for the retransmission of their programming.

Meanwhile, nearly a decade since the public comment period closed, there has been a monumental shift in the marketplace and the way people access video content. Internet-based streaming services now have a sizable portion of the video programming distribution market – and this is only expected to grow as streaming companies actively urge consumers to switch from traditional television providers like cable and satellite TV to virtual offerings and other video streaming services. The shift from broadcast, cable, and satellite to streaming has profound impact on existing laws, regulations, and agreements that have been foundational in support of public safety and access to local news.??

In light of these marketplace changes, we urge the Commission to examine the video marketplace and seriously consider how it can ensure the viability of local broadcast stations and promote localism. As the expert agency, the Commission should be developing a record and recommendations to ensure that our regulatory system – which has enabled a thriving locally-focused broadcast system that is the envy of the world – is not undermined by the explosion of new technologies that were not foreseen even a mere decade ago. Accordingly, we urge you to refresh the aging, unclosed record from the 2014 proceeding by seeking new public comments to provide updated video marketplace information.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue, and we look forward to your prompt reply.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/oregon-congressional-delegation-announces-two-national-tech-hubs-coming-to-oregon,Oregon Congressional Delegation Announces Two National Tech Hubs Coming to Oregon,2023-10-23,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Tech hub designations primed for technological innovation and job creation benefiting national security and sustainable housing

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with U.S. Representatives Earl Blumenauer, Suzanne Bonamici, Val Hoyle, and Andrea Salinas, today announced the designation of two tech hubs coming to Oregon from the U.S. Economic Development Administration. These hubs are created through the Tech Hubs program and the 2022 bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, an economic development initiative intended to strengthen manufacturing, commercialization, and deployment of technology that advances American competitiveness. Today’s announcement also includes a federal grant heading to Portland State University for smart battery energy storage systems.

“Strengthening manufacturing in Oregon is a win-win. If we don't make things in America, we won't have a middle class in America,” said Senator Merkley. “These hubs coming to Oregon will generate jobs, help support our state’s leadership in semiconductor manufacturing and national security, renewable energy, and ensure Oregon’s Mass Timber economy remains sustainable and can continue to innovate and thrive.”

“This is great news for our entire state when it comes to jobs in Oregon and cutting-edge research that flows from the investments made by the CHIPS & Science Act,” said Senator Wyden. “I’m gratified this landmark legislation that I worked to pass continues to generate such positive benefits for mass timber, semiconductor technology and green energy.”

“The Pacific Northwest is poised to play a critical role in the development of sustainable building materials,” said Rep. Blumenauer. “Mass timber is the key to a low carbon, sustainable future. I am pleased with the Biden Administration’s selection of the Pacific Northwest Mass Timber Tech Hub. It recognizes that Oregon already has a great deal of experience and some terrific mass timber projects. This will further reinforce our progress and our prospects for the future. I look forward to tracking the progress with the Oregon State University, the Oregon Mass Timber Coalition, and many others.”

“Researchers at Oregon State University and its partners have been leading the effort to develop cutting-edge mass timber that will benefit the environment, create jobs, stimulate rural economies, and make housing more affordable,” said Rep. Bonamici. “Addressing the climate crisis must include making our built environment more sustainable. Having this tech hub in the Pacific NW will benefit the region and the country as we work to build more affordable, climate-smart structures. Innovative renewable energy storage will also be key to addressing the climate crisis, enhancing the resilience of our electric grid, and building a more sustainable future. Congratulations to the Pacific Northwest Smart Energy Strategy Development Consortium for earning this Tech Hub grant award to continue their work leading the transition to a clean energy economy.”

“I am thrilled that the Pacific Northwest Mass Timber Hub—a consortium led by OSU-- is one of the 31 Tech Hubs designated by the Biden Administration as part of the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act. This designation will help Oregon continue to advance mass timber technologies that tackle two of my biggest priorities in Congress: reducing wildfire risk and building affordable housing. I am grateful for this federal investment that will bring innovation to manufacturing and construction, and boost pathways for middle class jobs,” said Rep. Hoyle. “OSU is also receiving much deserved recognition for its leadership in microfluidics with a Tech Hub designation by the Biden Administration as part of the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act. Their cutting-edge research will benefit advanced energy technologies and Oregon’s leading semiconductor economy. I am grateful for this federal investment into jobs and manufacturing.”

“I’m glad to see the Biden Administration recognizes Oregon’s innovative reputation with these highly competitive tech hub designations from the CHIPS and Science Act,” said Rep. Salinas. “These hubs will position our state at the forefront of technology and manufacturing for decades to come, creating thousands of good jobs and moving us toward a better, more sustainable future for all Oregonians. One hub in Corvallis will support our state’s critical semiconductor industry, while another Portland State University-led consortium will promote renewable energy storage technologies. Finally, I’m excited that our timber industry is receiving a designation to help develop affordable and sustainable wood products—something I’ve championed in Congress with my Timber Innovation for Building Rural Communities Act. This is a great day for Oregon and I look forward to seeing these investments come to fruition.”

The Tech Hubs program was authorized by the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, a key part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. This legislation was championed by the Oregon delegation and was signed into law in August 2022. The program invests directly in burgeoning, high-potential U.S. regions and aims to transform them into globally competitive innovation centers. Earlier this year, Merkley, Wyden and Hoyle urged the administration to approve the authorization of the Pacific Northwest Mass Timber Tech Hub.

Oregon Tech Hubs designees and grant information can be found below:

The Corvallis Microfluidics Tech Hub, led by Oregon State University, aims to establish global leadership in the development, scaling, and commercialization of microfluidics technology for use in semiconductor and electronic cooling. Through the development, scaling, and commercialization of microfluidics technologies, this Tech Hub will create a platform for high-performance computing, biotechnology, advanced energy, and advanced materials and manufacturing companies to collaboratively demonstrate microfluidics technologies. By capitalizing on the innovation of a material critical to semiconductor manufacturing and bioscience, the Corvallis Microfluidics Tech Hub will mitigate supply chain risks and contribute to advancing a technology central to our national security.

The Pacific Northwest Mass Timber Tech Hub (PNW Mass Timber Tech Hub), OR Mass Timber Coalition aims to be a global leader in mass timber design and manufacturing to lower the construction industry’s carbon footprint and increasing housing affordability. Building off the region’s wood products research and development expertise and density of architectural, engineering, and construction firms, this Tech Hub will invest in advanced materials science to position mass timber as a viable and sustainable construction alternative.

Pacific Northwest Smart Energy Strategy Development Consortium will develop a regional strategy that advances “front of the meter” energy storage technologies and products to facilitate renewable energy sources’ integration into the utility grid.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-announces-virtual-town-hall-on-oct-31-for-malheur-county,Wyden Announces Virtual Town Hall on Oct. 31 for Malheur County,2023-10-23,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Online town hall is open to all county residents to ask questions of Wyden staff & local supporters of the senator’s Community Empowerment for the Owyhee (CEO) Act

Portland – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced a live on-line town hall Oct. 31 hosted by People’s Town Hall for residents of Malheur County to ask questions of his staff and local supporters of his Community Empowerment for the Owyhee (CEO) Act.

“This landmark Owyhee legislation shows the entire country how a rural Oregon community can come together to preserve both a natural treasure and a rich agriculture heritage that generates jobs,” Wyden said. “The Malheur CEO Act is the product of a local process driven by ranchers, conservationists and Tribal leaders putting the ‘Oregon Way’ into practice by rolling up their sleeves and designing solid solutions.”

The virtual town hall will begin at noon MT (11 am PT) on Tuesday, Oct. 31 and can be watched here on Facebook Live. Malheur County residents who want to ask a question during the town hall can RSVP here.

The online Oct. 31 town hall follows an in-person town hall Wyden held June 23 in Ontario for Malheur County residents to discuss the Owyhee bill and other issues of local and national significance.

“Constituents showing up and speaking out about pending legislation is vital to our democracy,” said Nathan Williams of People's Town Hall, a town hall series from the founders of Town Hall Project. “People’s Town Hall invites all Malheur County residents to join this community conversation about the Malheur CEO Act.”

Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-help-homeowners-install-new-renewable-energy-systems,"Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Help Homeowners Install New Renewable Energy Systems",2023-10-23,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he has introduced legislation that would help state, local and Tribal governments accelerate the permitting and inspection process for residents to install home energy systems, like rooftop solar panels.

“Each year, more Americans are installing solar panels and other clean energy products into their homes but local governments are struggling to streamline the permitting and inspection process for qualifying clean home energy systems,” said Wyden. “That’s why I’m proud to cosponsor the SHINE Act which would simplify the permitting process for homeowners and local governments and build on the clean energy tax credits I authored in the Inflation Reduction Act. Together, these two pieces of legislation would create more green jobs in Oregon and nationwide and lower energy costs for homeowners.”

Across the country, local governments are struggling to keep pace with the number of permit applications they are receiving for home energy systems like rooftop solar. When these permits take weeks, or even months, to process, it means higher prices, fewer local jobs, and a worse customer experience for homeowners.

The Streamlining Homeowner Installation of New Energies (SHINE) Act directs the Department of Energy to work with local authorities to automate permitting and approvals of residential renewable energy systems, saving time, lowering utility costs, and creating new jobs in the transition to a clean energy future.

The legislation was led by U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich, D-N.M. Alongside Wyden, the bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez-Masto, D-Nev., Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., and Alex Padilla, D-Calif.

The SHINE Act is supported by the Solar Energy Industries Association; Advanced Energy United; GRID Alternatives; Solar United Neighbors Action; Vote Solar and others.

The text of the bill is here.

A fact sheet on the bill is here.

Earlier this year, Wyden successfully urged the Biden Administration to establish a Civilian Climate Corps program and create green union jobs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-markey-statement-on-fcc-vote-to-advance-reinstatement-of-net-neutrality,"Wyden, Markey Statement on FCC Vote to Advance Reinstatement of Net Neutrality",2023-10-19,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Edward J. Markey today released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission voted to issue its proposed rule to reinstate net neutrality rules and reclassify broadband as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act:

“The COVID-19 pandemic clearly demonstrated that broadband – like electricity and water – isn’t a luxury, it’s essential infrastructure. Today, the Federal Communications Commission recognized that by advancing strong net neutrality protections and rightfully reclassifying broadband as a Title II service. These rules will protect the free and open internet, create a level playing field for all businesses, and help ensure a just broadband future. We commend Chairwoman Rosenworcel for this historic action and will not stop fighting until strong net neutrality protections are fully restored.”

In September, Senators Wyden and Markey led their Senate colleagues in a letter to FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel calling on the FCC to expeditiously reclassify broadband as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act and restore net neutrality protections.

In July 2022, Senators Wyden and Markey and Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07) introduced the Net Neutrality Broadband Justice Act to reinstate neutrality and reverse damaging Trump-era deregulation. In 2006, Senators Wyden and Markey introduced the first neutrality bills in the House of Representatives and Senate, respectively.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-colleagues-introduce-senate-resolution-in-solidarity-with-uaw-workers-on-strike,"Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Introduce Senate Resolution in Solidarity with UAW Workers on Strike",2023-10-19,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today that they and Senate colleagues have introduced a resolution supporting the 150,000 members of United Auto Workers bargaining for a better contract with automakers. The resolution calls on the “Big Three” automakers to negotiate in good faith and offer workers a fair contract.

UAW has around 34,000 of its members on strike from production lines and factories in Oregon and across the nation. This marks one of the largest U.S. strikes in recent history with the strike now in its fifth week.

“These workers are the backbone of the American auto industry, and the UAW is fighting for contracts that recognize their members’ hard work day in and day out,” Wyden said. “The record profits that the Big Three automakers have made in recent years have not translated to the benefit of their employees. Every worker deserves a fair shake, and that’s exactly what workers in Oregon and nationwide are working to achieve.”

“I stand firmly with the members of UAW in Oregon—and around the country—fighting against corporate greed and advocating for fair contracts,” said Senator Merkley.“As the son of a union machinist and husband to a union hospice nurse, I’ve had a front row seat to the importance unions play for workers. I stand in solidarity, and I will continue to strongly advocate for strengthened federal laws that protect every working person’s right to join a union and to negotiate safe working conditions and fair wages and benefits.”

The resolution was led by U.S. Senators Bernard Sanders (I-Vt.) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio). Alongside Wyden and Merkley, the resolution was introduced by Sens. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), and Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-oregon-to-receive-nearly-450-million-in-federal-funds-to-modernize-the-power-grid,"Wyden, Merkley: Oregon to Receive Nearly $450 Million in Federal Funds to Modernize the Power Grid",2023-10-19,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they welcomed the Biden administration announcement that Oregon will receive about $449.5 million in federal assistance to modernize the power grid, bolstering its ability to withstand fires, bad weather, natural disasters and more.

“Whether it’s been wildfires, windstorms, ice storms or other calamities, Oregon communities in recent years have suffered prolonged power outages among the dangers that arise when the grid goes down,” said Wyden, whose Disaster Safe Power Grid Act became law in 2021 as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. “I’m glad to see the Disaster Safe Power Grid Act I fought for, now making the power grid more resilient and helping to bring more renewables online. This major federal investment means Oregonians can feel more secure that they won’t freeze in the winter, bake in the summer and able to count on electricity year-round in their homes and small businesses.”

“It’s crucial for our power grids to remain up to date, especially as summer droughts and intense winter storms become more common and severe,” said Senator Merkley. “Oregonians shouldn’t have to worry about their health and lives being at risk due to power outages leaving them stranded without electricity for days or weeks, or because a stray power line sparked a catastrophic wildfire. This funding is a critical investment to modernize our power grids and help reduce the chance of outages or sparks.”

The $449.5 million from the federal Department of Energy will be distributed as follows:

· $250 million to a partnership between Portland General Electric and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs to upgrade transmission capacity between PGE’s load centers, and renewable generation resources east of the Cascades -- including those on the Warm Springs reservation

· $99.6 million to PacifiCorp for grid resilience and equitable workforce development in the West

· $50 million to Portland General Electric to accelerate and deploy grid-edge computing for about 10 percent of PGE’s distribution system",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/west-coast-senators-warn-ferc-against-approving-flawed-and-unwanted-pacific-northwest-gas-expansion,West Coast Senators Warn FERC Against Approving Flawed and Unwanted Pacific Northwest Gas Expansion,2023-10-18,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FERC is scheduled Thursday morning to consider a major and unnecessary expansion of gas infrastructure in Oregon and Washington State - despite dangerous climate impacts, repeated failure to demonstrate public need for the project, safety risks, and a failure to properly consult with Tribes.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, joined by U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), today urged the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to reject a proposal from TC Energy for a major expansion of methane gas infrastructure in the Pacific Northwest, as FERC is scheduled to take up the proposal at a Thursday meeting.

The Senators pointed to a myriad of problems with TC Energy’s proposal and FERC’s consideration process, including the proposal’s direct conflict with Washington, Oregon, and California climate laws; a potential rise in energy costs for consumers; TC Energy’s troubled safety record; and FERC’s failure to properly and sufficiently consult Tribes prior to a final decision. FERC is poised to make a decision despite the serious climate impacts of this project, which would undermine state climate laws and with Biden administration’s climate goals. FERC’s decision Thursday will prove to be a major litmus test on whether the Commission can pivot towards a clean energy future or whether it will continue to approve projects that are incompatible with avoiding the worst impacts of climate chaos.

“We write to express our opposition to TC Energy’s proposed Gas Transmission Northwest (GTN) Xpress Project, and to urge the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to reject TC Energy’s request for a certificate of public convenience and necessity. TC Energy’s project would increase rates for consumers, cause over $8.8 billion in climate damages and undermine our states’ efforts to combat the climate crisis just so that a Canadian company can increase the shipment of Canadian fracked methane gas. Elected officials from across Washington, Oregon, and California have been clear: this project is incompatible with our climate laws,” the Senators wrote in a letter to FERC’s four commissioners.

The GTN Xpress Project faces opposition not only from Senators, but also from Governor Tina Kotek (D-OR), Governor Jay Inslee (D-WA), and the Attorneys General of all three West Coast states.

“Oregon passed strong clean energy and decarbonization laws and regulations in 2020 and 2021. These laws are not arbitrary or abstract,” said Oregon Governor Tina Kotek. “Companies have enforceable regulations to meet in order to help prepare our state for a cleaner, more resilient future. I’m opposed to the proposed Gas Transmission Northwest (GTN) Xpress project because I do not believe it can comply with Oregon’s clean energy laws and regulations.”

“We are in the midst of a climate crisis, and the only way to defeat climate change is to end our use of fossil fuels. That’s it,” said Washington Governor Jay Inslee. “Every new fossil fuel project leaves another generation chained to the damage of climate chaos. We must focus intensely on building up our clean energy infrastructure and ensure our children and grand-children have access to the clean energy options and opportunities they deserve and need.”

The Senators also raise concerns that FERC failed to properly consult with impacted Tribes, which is a trust obligation and raises questions about whether the proposal could impact tribal treaty rights. The Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission was not consulted as part of the environmental review of the project, despite the fact that the pipeline travels near the Snake River and a safety incident could potentially impact endangered fish.

“GTN Xpress represents a significant expansion of methane gas infrastructure at a time when California, Oregon, and Washington are moving away from fossil fuels. It will increase public safety risks and does not have the support of impacted tribes. Further, the project will raise energy costs for consumers, it is incompatible with laws in all three aforementioned states, and there is not adequate demonstrated need. We oppose GTN Xpress and urge you to deny TC Energy’s request for a certificate of public convenience and necessity,” the Senators concluded in their letter.

The full text of the letter is available here and below.

Today’s letter follows previous letters that highlight how the proposed expansion is not in the public interest and how TC Energy has failed to demonstrate adequate need for the project.

Dear Chairman Phillips and Commissioners Christie, Clements, and Danly:

We write to express our opposition to TC Energy’s proposed Gas Transmission Northwest (GTN) Xpress Project, and to urge the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to reject TC Energy’s request for a certificate of public convenience and necessity. TC Energy’s project would increase rates for consumers, cause over $8.8 billion in climate damages and undermine our states’ efforts to combat the climate crisis just so that a Canadian company can increase the shipment of Canadian fracked methane gas. Elected officials from across Washington, Oregon, and California have been clear: this project is incompatible with our climate laws.

The West coast is leading the race to transition to clean energy and combat the climate crisis, but TC Energy’s proposal is inconsistent with the state laws underpinning those efforts. As the Attorney Generals of California, Oregon, and Washington pointed out, “if GTN continues business as usual with its pipeline in 2050, that would represent 48 percent of the region’s target GHG emissions from all sources.” Put simply, there is no way that our states can meet their emissions goals if this project moves forward.

TC Energy’s proposal is also bad for consumers, forcing existing customers to subsidize the costs of pipeline expansion to the benefit of TC Energy and Canadian fossil fuel producers. Pacific Gas and Electric and Puget Sound Energy have both intervened because they fear GTN Xpress will unfairly force existing customers to subsidize new customers. TC Energy has filed “an improperly segmented review, hiding the full scope of environmental impacts and costs to consumers.”

Further, TC Energy has failed to demonstrate that there is need for the project. TC Energy has entered into a precedent agreement with Tourmaline Oil, a Canadian fossil gas producer that is not a utility. FERC’s own Final Environmental Impact Statement for GTN Xpress acknowledged that it is unclear where Tourmaline’s gas would be delivered to, or for what purpose, and then concluded that “downstream emissions from Tourmaline Oil’s subscribed capacity are not reasonably foreseeable.” Since Tourmaline Oil’s uses for the fossil gas are not reasonably foreseeable, they should not serve as the justification for a pipeline expansion.

While it is not primarily FERC’s responsibility, we would be remiss not to mention the poor safety record that TC Energy has demonstrated. In the last year, TC Energy’s Keystone pipeline spilled nearly 600,000 gallons of bitumen oil in Kansas and their Columbia Gas Transmission Pipeline exploded in Strasburg, Virginia. This project intends to increase capacity solely through higher compression, meaning greater safety risks.

Finally, we have strong concerns that FERC did not engage in proper and sufficient tribal consultation. FERC, as a part of the federal government, has a trust obligation to engage in robust government-to-government consultation with impacted tribes. As noted in the letter sent by the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) to FERC, the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process does not address several key concerns, including the impacts this project may have on aquatic resources and endangered species. While the Final EIS acknowledges consultation with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, CRITFC is a co-manager of some critical fishery resources in the Columbia River Basin and should have been consulted as well. The Starbuck Compressor Station is only five miles from the Snake River, which the pipeline crosses en route to Oregon. Whether a safety incident could impact endangered fish, thus impacting tribal treaty rights, does not appear to have been considered.

GTN Xpress represents a significant expansion of methane gas infrastructure at a time when California, Oregon, and Washington are moving away from fossil fuels. It will increase public safety risks and does not have the support of impacted tribes. Further, the project will raise energy costs for consumers, it is incompatible with laws in all three aforementioned states, and there is not adequate demonstrated need. We oppose GTN Xpress and urge you to deny TC Energy’s request for a certificate of public convenience and necessity.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-bennet-tillis-introduce-bill-to-improve-health-care-access-protect-seniors-from-unexpected-costs,"Wyden, Bennet, Tillis Introduce Bill to Improve Health Care Access, Protect Seniors from Unexpected Costs",2023-10-18,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Amid National Mental Health Crisis, Senators’ Bipartisan Legislation Would Improve Americans’ Access to Health Care

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today joined U.S. Senators Michael Bennet, D-Colo., and Thom Tillis, R-N.C., in introducing legislation to ensure Medicare Advantage plans protect seniors from unexpected health care costs and maintain accurate provider directories.

“When Americans are purchasing and using their health insurance, they have the right to know whether their doctors are covered by that plan,” Wyden said. “Too often, seniors and families get health care whiplash when they sign up for a plan only to find out that their preferred doctor is out-of-network, or it’s impossible to find a covered mental health care provider. This bipartisan legislation is a big step towards holding insurance companies accountable so their provider directories are accurate, and I’ll be working hard to get it passed.”

“We are experiencing a massive mental health crisis across America – but instead of getting the care they need, Coloradans tell me they’re struggling to find timely care,” said Bennet. “Congress urgently needs to act to improve access to mental, behavioral, and physical health care across the country. Our bipartisan bill would make it easier for Colorado seniors to find and see providers covered by their health plan.”

“Far too often, North Carolinians, especially seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage and those in need of mental health services, find themselves unable to access the care they need due to inaccurate provider directories,” said Tillis. “This legislation ensures that consumers can access updated provider information enabling them to make informed decisions about their healthcare.”

Many seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage rely on their health plan’s provider directory to find in-network physicians and practitioners, but inaccurate data can make it harder to find a provider or lead to unexpected costs. These inaccurate provider directories, known as “ghost networks” often list providers which are not accepting new patients, or in some cases, are no longer in business. Ghost networks make it more difficult for patients to find in-network health care providers resulting in unexpected costs or delayed care for patients. This issue is especially pertinent in the mental and behavioral health fields.

The Requiring Enhanced & Accurate Lists of (REAL) Health Providers Act works to protect seniors from hidden costs and provide reliable care.

Specifically, the REAL Health Providers Act would:

Strengthen requirements for Medicare Advantage plans to maintain accurate and updated provider directories;

Ensure patients do not pay out-of-network costs for appointments with providers that were incorrectly listed in their plan’s provider directory as in-network; and

Direct Centers for Medicare and Medicaid to publish guidance for plans to maintain accurate provider directories.

The text of the bill is here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-bonamici-hoyle-announce-500000-for-osu-to-protect-oregon-dunes-from-sea-level-rise,"Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Hoyle Announce $500,000 for OSU to Protect Oregon Dunes from Sea Level Rise",2023-10-18,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley as well as U.S. Reps. Suzanne Bonamici and Val Hoyle today announced that Oregon State University has secured a $500,000 federal grant to assess the impact of backshore dune environments to sea level rise in the Pacific Northwest.

Backshore dune environments are the part of the seashore between the beach and the coastline covered by water only during storms of exceptional severity.

“Coastal communities in Oregon and nationwide are staring down the threat of sea level rise caused by climate change,” Wyden said. “I’m glad OSU’s world-renowned researchers have secured this federal investment to determine how an incredibly important part of our coastal ecosystems like dunes, can be valuable tools in the fight for a sustainable future.”

“Oregon coastal communities and their economies rely on the health and vitality of their ecosystems,” said Merkley. “This critical research – being done right here by OSU researchers – will prepare coastal communities to be resilient and overcome the challenges of climate chaos, including sea level rise and coastal erosion.”

“Natural structures like backshore dunes have tremendous potential to help mitigate climate change,” said Bonamici. “I’m grateful for Oregon State University’s work to study these protective structures along the Oregon coast. This funding will make a difference in the fight against climate change and sea level rise.”

“I’m thrilled that OSU received this research grant to help Oregon’s coastal communities adapt our dunes and beaches to climate change. I’m committed to getting federal funding to Oregon’s Fourth Congressional District to help the resiliency of our communities,” said Hoyle.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/oregon-delegation-announces-approval-of-federal-fishery-disaster-declaration,Oregon Delegation Announces Approval of Federal Fishery Disaster Declaration,2023-10-16,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"The determination will help ocean commercial fishermen in Oregon recover from significant economic losses in 2018, 2019, and 2020 from declining salmon populations

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, with U.S. Senator Ron Wyden and U.S. Representatives Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), and Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05), announced today that the U.S. Department of Commerce has determined a fishery disaster for 2018, 2019, and 2020 Oregon Chinook salmon ocean commercial fisheries in the state.

This determination, championed by the Oregon delegation, will make local fishermen eligible to apply for long overdue disaster assistance from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The Department of Commerce currently has fishery disaster assistance funding available and will determine the allocation for this disaster soon. Those federal resources will help the state’s coastal economies recover from years of drought, changing ocean conditions, and critical habitat loss that have severely harmed salmon populations in the Pacific Northwest.

“Oregon’s fishing industry is essential to our state’s economy and creates good-paying jobs our communities rely on,” Merkley said. “This federal disaster declaration the Oregon delegation pushed for recognizes the significant toll of declining salmon populations on our fishermen, and it cements our commitment to investing in the long-term recovery of Oregon’s coastal communities.”

“Oregonians living and working on the coast know full well how crucial the fishing industry is to job growth and their communities’ economic well-being,” Wyden said. “Coastal fishing’s impact also ripples out statewide, and I’m gratified the federal Commerce Department has agreed to the delegation’s request for a fishery disaster declaration that will help support this iconic and productive Oregon industry.”

“It is impossible to overstate the value of salmon to Oregon. This federal disaster declaration will be a lifeline for Oregon’s fishing communities. As we continue to push to restore healthy and abundant salmon populations, it is also an important step forward for the federal government to honor its treaty obligations with Pacific Northwest tribes,” said Blumenauer.

“This declaration will benefit the Pacific NW’s fishing industry, workers, and economy,” said Bonamici. “Oregon’s fisheries have worked hard to overcome numerous challenges in recent years, including decline in the salmon population, and this determination will provide support so they can sustain the industry and grow into the future.”

“Sustainable fishing off of the Oregon Coast provides good paying jobs and is a major economic boon for Oregon’s economy. However our fishermen need support to get through these bad years for Oregon Chinook salmon. A federal disaster declaration will provide much-needed relief and I’ll keep working to get more resources back to Oregon’s Fourth Congressional District,” said Hoyle.

“Salmon are critically important to our culture, identity, and economy here in the Pacific Northwest. Unfortunately, climate change, drought, and a whole host of other factors are causing the salmon population to decrease every year,” said Salinas. “I am glad that Oregon’s fisheries will now be eligible for federal assistance, allowing them to stay afloat while we work to find long-term solutions at the local, state, and federal levels.”

“I’m glad much-needed federal assistance will be coming to local fisheries,” Chavez-DeRemer said. “This critical industry has suffered a number of setbacks in recent years, and I’ll continue working with the Oregon delegation to ensure fishermen are able to recover and succeed.”

In addition to the economic activity generated by Oregon’s commercial fishing industry, salmon are an important part of the cultural heritage of Pacific Northwest Tribes, generate recreational activity, and are a treasured natural resource across the state. As a result, declining salmon populations hurt the state and the region on many levels.

From 2013 to 2017, the commercial value of Chinook salmon was around $6.3 million annually for Oregon fisheries. But with the impacts of climate chaos impacting salmon populations, the economic value of Chinook fell sharply to $2.3 million in 2018, $2 million in 2019, and $1.4 million in 2020.

In response, Senator Merkley led the delegation in a series of letters to U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, including one in 2021, detailing the critical need for federal support for this industry while local, state, and federal partners continue to work toward long-term solutions.

Additional efforts from the Oregon delegation seeking the U.S. Department of Commerce to determine a fishery disaster in the state for years following 2020 are ongoing. This includes the latest letter in April led by Senator Wyden in support of Governor Tina Kotek’s request for a federal fishery resource disaster declaration.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-urge-biden-administration-to-help-reduce-energy-costs,"Wyden, Colleagues Urge Biden Administration to Help Reduce Energy Costs",2023-10-16,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today that he and Senate colleagues are urging federal agencies to act to reduce energy costs in Oregon and nationwide through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

In a letter from Wyden and 27 senators to Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young and Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, the lawmakers urged the Biden Administration to include supplemental LIHEAP funding in any additional request submitted for FY2024 appropriations.

“Amid increased energy prices resulting from Russia’s war in Ukraine and inflationary pressures, LIHEAP has become even more important for helping families pay their energy bills without foregoing other essentials.,” Wyden and colleagues wrote. “Unfortunately, supplemental funding is needed once again as we head into another winter heating season. Winter heating prices are expected to remain roughly as high as last year, and LIHEAP applications are up significantly. According to the National Energy Assistance Directors’ Association, states are reporting increases of up to 20% in the number of LIHEAP applications since last year. With limited funding, states will face tough choices about the amount of assistance they can provide and the number of people they can serve.”

About 6 million households in Oregon and across the nation received assistance with energy costs through LIHEAP last year. The program factors income, family size, and availability of resources when determining eligibility.

The bipartisan letter was led by U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK). Alongside Wyden, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Edward Markey (D-MA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Catherine Cortez Mastro (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Robert Casey (D-PA), Christopher Murphy (D-CT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Michael Bennett (D-CO), Christopher Coons (D-DE), Gary Peters (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Peter Welch (D-VT), Mark Warner (D-VA), Jon Tester (D-MT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Bernard Sanders (I-VT).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-urge-corrections-to-proposed-federal-defenders-budget,"Wyden, Colleagues Urge Corrections to Proposed Federal Defenders’ Budget",2023-10-11,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today that he and Senate colleagues are urging that adequate funding be provided for Defender Services in both Congressional chambers’ Financial Services and General Government legislation.

“Federal Public and Community Defenders are fundamental to the function of federal courts across the country. To preserve the operation of our justice system, we urge you to pass funding for Defender Services that is at a minimum $108 million higher than the House mark and $136 million more than the Senate mark in the Financial Services and General Government appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2024 […] Without addressing this gap in funding, Federal Defenders have estimated that funding at the current House or Senate marks would, conservatively, result in a 9-12% reduction in their current workforce,” Wyden and colleagues wrote to the Senate Appropriations Committee.

Nearly 9 in 10 individuals charged with a federal crime cannot afford legal representation and thus are constitutionally entitled to appointed counsel. If there is a shortage in public defenders, the court must refer more cases to private attorneys on the Criminal Justice Act panel. Sending excess cases to the panel often incurs higher costs which can lead to a decrease in the Federal Defender budget and may increase costs on the federal judiciary -- paradoxically costing the federal government more.

“Congress should follow through on its Constitutional responsibility to adequately fund federal public defense,” the senators concluded.

The letter was led by U.S. Senators Peter Welch, D-Vt., Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Dick Durbin, D-Ill., and Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii. Alongside Wyden, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Tina Smith, D-Minn., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Rev. Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., Tim Kaine, D-Va., Chris Coons, D-Del., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., Ed Markey, D-Mass., Ben Cardin, D-Md. Bob Casey, D-Pa., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii.??",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-praises-enactment-of-california-privacy-law-modeled-on-mind-your-own-business-act,Wyden Praises Enactment of California Privacy Law Modeled on Mind Your Own Business Act,2023-10-11,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today applauded California for enacting the Delete Act, to give users the ability to stop data brokers from selling or sharing their personal information with a single click. The legislation is modeled on a similar provision in Wyden’s Mind Your Own Business Act, first introduced in 2019.

“Americans shouldn't have to fill out hundreds of different forms to stop data brokers selling their personal information. Californians now have a new law, creating a single, universal data broker opt-out, which is modeled after my Mind Your Own Business Act.” Wyden said. “I hope that other states and Congress will follow, so that Americans across the country can take control of their own personal data.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-17-million-to-drive-solutions-to-nitrate-contamination-in-morrow-and-umatilla-counties,"Merkley, Wyden Announce $1.7 Million to Drive Solutions to Nitrate Contamination in Morrow and Umatilla Counties",2023-10-10,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announce Morrow and Umatilla counties have received $1.7 million to help address nitrate contamination in private wells. This federal investment from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was passed in the FY23 government funding bill as a critical?community-initiated project?championed by Senators Merkley and Wyden. The funding will fuel local efforts to find?a long-term solution to the ongoing water crisis facing community members in the Lower Umatilla Basin.

“When I visited impacted community members in rural Morrow County and held a town hall there earlier this year, I heard devastating stories about how nitrate contamination is raising serious health concerns—with some families afraid to even brush their teeth. This is unacceptable,”?Merkley said. “Everyone should have access to clean, safe drinking water, and this federal investment will help Morrow and Umatilla counties work with the State of Oregon and local communities to more fully understand the scope of the problem and start identifying a better path forward.”

“Oregonians in Morrow and Umatilla County deserve the peace of mind that every time they turn on the tap, it’s with full confidence that the water is clean and safe,” Wyden said. “Based on my Morrow County town hall this spring and other conversations in the community, it’s clear that rural Oregonians in this part of the state have serious and legitimate water safety concerns -- and I’m glad these federal funds are en route to help solve this problem once and for all.”

The federal funding?will support long-term solutions that provide impacted community members not on city water?with greater access to clean drinking water, including creating a comprehensive inventory of domestic wells and testing the wells to determine which?homes?are most critical to?consider?bringing?into?a?public system.

?Additionally, Senators Merkley and Wyden are championing a?second community-initiated project?for Morrow County that was included in the FY24 Senate Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Appropriations bill that Merkley wrote as chair of the subcommittee. The funding would be used?for the second phase of their work to address nitrate contamination of private wells by developing a Preliminary Engineering Report and for vetting alternatives for providing well users with clean water. The bill passed out of the Appropriations Committee with strong bipartisan support and currently awaits consideration by the full Senate.

“Morrow County very much appreciates this grant award from the Environmental Protection Agency, which was filed in partnership with Umatilla County,” said David Sykes, Chair of the Morrow County Board of Commissioners. “We sincerely appreciate this EPA funding which was secured by the leadership and hard work of Senators Wyden and Merkley. Both counties have been working diligently to test household water and to deliver clean drinking water. This EPA grant funding will help both counties move forward on meeting the drinking water challenges. More specifically, the funding will help counties in the designing and planning possible extension of public water systems. Part of the work will include a more in depth, comprehensive inventory of domestic wells.”

?“Umatilla County is delighted by this announcement, as it signifies a remarkable milestone in our commitment to tackle the elevated nitrate levels in the Lower Umatilla Basin Groundwater Management Area,” said Dan Dorran, Chair of the Umatilla Board of Commissioners. “This funding will empower us to build upon the substantial achievements already accomplished by Umatilla County Health and our esteemed state and local collaborators in testing and outreach initiatives. We extend our deepest appreciation to Senator Merkley and Senator Wyden for their unwavering support, as their dedication has been instrumental in making this endeavor a reality.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-salinas-lead-bicameral-legislation-to-invest-in-regenerative-agriculture,"Merkley, Wyden, Salinas Lead Bicameral Legislation to Invest in Regenerative Agriculture",2023-10-05,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Bill will create a training program and curriculum to ensure farmers and ranchers have access to information and tools to navigate degraded lands, increase profitability and resilience to extreme weather events

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley, Ron Wyden, and Representative Andrea Salinas (D-OR-06) are leading the bicameral Soil Conservation And Regeneration Education (Soil CARE) Act. Farmers, ranchers, and federal land personnel continue to face ongoing challenges to their land from extreme weather events like floods and droughts. This bill would ensure producers have the latest information and tools available to help rebuild degraded lands, reduce reliance on inputs, and increase profitability and resilience to extreme weather. Salinas will introduce the House version of this bill next week.

“Dynamic lands and ecosystems have defined Oregon for ages and have supported Oregon’s world-class agriculture industry,” said Merkley. “As climate chaos continues to make the West hotter and dryer, it’s important our farmers, ranchers, and land stewards have the resources and tools needed to keep their lands adaptable and resilient. This bill is a necessary step in keeping supporting farmers and ranchers across America.”

“Farmers across the country continue to feel the devastating effects of the climate crisis. It is essential they be equipped with the tools they need to fully benefit from existing federal programs that will help,” Wyden said. “As the author of the Soil Health Demonstration Trial program in the last Farm Bill, I am all in for providing more tools to improve the resiliency of crops and the health of our planet.”

“As we continue to suffer the effects of extreme weather in Oregon, it’s critical that our local farmers and producers have the tools they need to adapt. That includes helping them implement the latest regenerative agriculture and soil health management practices,” said Congresswoman Salinas. “This legislation will ensure USDA personnel and third-party service providers are properly trained and equipped to help producers rebuild degraded lands and increase profitability and resilience.”

Training and education regarding regenerative agriculture has been critically underfunded, but education and technical support are crucial components to successfully implementing conservation efforts in the country. The Soil CARE Act invests in expanded technical assistance and provides U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) staff and personnel with the latest knowledge, tools, and innovations to help producers produce and boost healthy soil. Next week, Salinas will introduce companion legislation in the House.

The Soil CARE Act would:

Develop and deliver curriculum within one year of passage;

Develop a nationally-available online training curriculum;

Encourage all relevant USDA personnel (NRCS and TSPs) to complete online training within three years of the Farm Bill passage;

Hold annual soil health workshops and training sessions;

Dedicate resources to providing required continuing education for all NRCS and TSPs; and

Require NRCS to use the training curriculum to develop soil health education materials for producers.

THe Soil CARE is endorsed by over 180 organizations and businesses, including OrCAN (Oregon Climate and Agriculture Network) and Oregon Association of Conservation Districts (OACD), as well as members of the Regenerate America coalition which includes the American Sustainable Business Network, Oregon Association of Conservation Districts, Oregon Climate and Agriculture Network, the Natural Resources Defense Fund, Green America, and Earthjustice.

""Farmers and ranchers across the country are proving that through biological soil health management and regenerative practices such as cover crops, no-till, and holistic grazing, they can build healthy soil faster than ever thought possible–reducing costly chemical inputs, sequestering carbon, lessening impacts from floods and droughts, and increasing biodiversity. But while producers are ready to adopt these approaches, they don’t have access to the education and training needed to do so. The Soil CARE Act would provide the much-needed training to NRCS staff and technical service providers, so they can better support and train farmers and ranchers. We are grateful to Senators Merkley, Wyden, and Congresswoman Salinas for their leadership on soil health as a key solution to the climate, health, and water crises we face,"" said Finian Makpeace, co-founder of Kiss the Ground, convener of the Regenerate America Coalition.

Bill text, as introduced in the Senate, can be found here.

A bill summary can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-800000-to-address-stolen-vehicles-in-portland,"Merkley, Wyden Announce $800,000 to Address Stolen Vehicles in Portland",2023-10-04,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today that the City of Portland will be receiving a Smart Policing Initiative Grant from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Justice Programs to help address stolen vehicles in the city, which has seen over 10,000 reported thefts so far in 2023.

“When folks go to hop in their cars to get to work, doctor’s appointments, or the grocery store, they should feel certain that their vehicle will be there waiting for them—not stolen without a trace,” Merkley said. “Ensuring local law enforcement has the tools needed to address the mounting stolen vehicle theft in the city will help drivers feel more confident to park in Portland.”

“Portlanders and anybody visiting the city must be able to park anywhere in town free of fear their car will be stolen,” Wyden said. “Auto theft obviously undermines quality of life, and I’m glad these federal funds are en route so Portland can mount a full-scale attack on this crime.”

This funding will help the Portland Police Bureau collect data concerning stolen vehicles and develop a digital database to conduct analysis. These evidence-based practices will inform officers’ efforts to better identify stolen vehicles in the community.

The DOJ’s Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime; advance equity and fairness in the administration of justice; assist victims; and uphold the rule of law.

?

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-reintroduce-bill-to-empower-youth-and-expand-voting-access,"Wyden, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Empower Youth and Expand Voting Access",2023-10-04,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Senate colleagues today reintroduced legislation that would expand youth access to voting.

“Our democracy’s future depends on young voters actively participating in the election process. Unfortunately, young voters, particularly young people of color, face growing obstacles to exercise their Constitutional right to vote,” said Senator Wyden. “That’s why I’m proud to introduce the Youth Voting Rights Act which would empower young voters and close the gap in voting rates between younger and older Americans nationwide. The promises of our Constitution must be universally fulfilled.”

Young people continue to face barriers to the ballot box which weakens their voice and influence over electoral politics. Their provisional ballots and mail-in ballots are rejected at disproportionate rates, and they routinely face serious obstacles to voter registration and in-person voting.

The Youth Voting Rights Act of 2023 would ease many of the barriers young people face in voting, including high rates of provisional ballot rejections, lack of accessible polling places, and restrictive residency and voter ID requirements. The bill would also ensure federal elections are free from age-based restrictions on access to vote-by-mail.

Specifically, the bill would:

Empower individuals and the government to enforce the Twenty-Sixth Amendment.

Expand voter registration services at public colleges and universities.

Allow young people in every state to pre-register to vote before turning 18.

Require institutions of higher education to have on-campus polling places.

Prohibit durational residency requirements for all federal elections.

Guarantee that states accept student IDs to meet voter-identification requirements.

Create a grant program dedicated to youth involvement in elections.

Gather data on youth voter registration and election participation.

Prevent states from placing age limits on no-excuse vote-by-mail ballots.

The legislation was led by U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass. Alongside Wyden, the bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii., Ed Markey, D-Mass., Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif.

Thelegislation was endorsed by NextGen America, Andrew Goodman Foundation, Demand Justice, League of Women Voters of the United States, Common Cause, American Civil Liberties Union / Democracy Division, End Citizens United / Let America Vote Action Fund, Public Citizen, NAACP Legal Defense and many other organizations.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-urges-senate-judiciary-committee-to-support-judge-kasubhais-nomination,Wyden Urges Senate Judiciary Committee to Support Judge Kasubhai’s Nomination,2023-10-04,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Watch a video of Wyden deliver his remarks here

As prepared for delivery

Chairman Durbin, Ranking Member Graham, members of the committee, I’m very pleased to join you this morning to introduce Judge Kasubhai, nominee for the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon.

Judge Kasubhai is eminently qualified for this position. You all have his qualifications before you. You can see that before serving as a magistrate judge, he practiced law in Klamath Falls. Now for those who aren’t familiar with Klamath Falls–and I am, in fact I will be there for a town hall meeting this weekend–it is a highly rural, agriculture and natural resource-driven economy. It is a place that has to work to recruit lawyers and doctors. Judge Kasubhai would have had a lot of opportunities available to him and it says a lot about his character and care for rural Oregonians that he would seek to fill the need there.

And let me talk a bit more about his qualities that will make him an exceptional judge.

His humility and temperament. His incredible professional achievements can fly under the radar when speaking with him because he lacks even a hint of arrogance. He is just as happy to engage in a conversation with his neighbors back home in Oregon about his passion for woodworking. Members of this Committee may not know that Judge Kasubhai owns a portable sawmill that he uses to mill logs into beautiful finished wood products, such as flooring. So, if you really want a beautiful wood floor, ask the Judge. You’ve got a guy who knows rural Oregon folks. His combination of personal temperament and professional and life experiences formed in small communities is something that makes him uniquely qualified to understand the issues facing rural America and the implications of cases before him on communities large and small.

Here is what he won’t mention: He is the first South Asian-American and first Muslim-American to have served on the Lane County Circuit Court. And when he was appointed as a magistrate judge, he became the first Muslim-American to serve on the federal bench. In his 16 years on the bench, he has won awards for judicial excellence from organizations like the Oregon State Bar and the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association. These are no easy feats and are a testament to his work ethic, as well as his dedication to the law and excellence in the profession. It’s no surprise that the American Bar Association unanimously rated him as well qualified, the highest possible rating. To ensure this excellence endures in the community, he mentors students to create hope, opportunities and the next generation of legal professionals

Let me close by saying: Not only did Judge Kasubhai advance through a bipartisan judicial selection commission, he also brings with him letters of support from leaders across Oregon and the political spectrum, from labor organizations to bar associations to the former U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, and the former Chief Judge for the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon.

I urge all members of this committee to support Judge Kasubhai’s nomination, and I will happily speak further with any member to help get his nomination approved.

Congratulations again to Judge Kasubhai on his nomination, and thank you again to Chairman Durbin and the committee for the opportunity to introduce him this morning.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-over-1-million-for-oregon-public-schools-stormwater-reduction,"Merkley, Wyden Announce Over $1 Million for Oregon Public Schools Stormwater Reduction",2023-10-03,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is awarding the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership $1,376,029 for their School Stormwater Reduction Program. This effort is targeted at reducing stormwater and improving water quality at public school parking lots and school yards, and promoting better engagement with school communities.

“A clean Columbia River Basin is essential to the health of our region, and protecting this important waterway requires partnerships between government, school, and community organizations,” said Senator Merkley. “This EPA funding will help Oregon schools and the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership address the impact of dangerous toxics from parking lots and help expand community buy-in for green solutions that protect the Columbia River.”

“This federal investment in the Columbia River Basin supports a standout local collaboration that’s providing a textbook example of how to team up to strengthen water quality,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership has secured these funds to reduce toxics, and I’ll keep battling for similar resources that continue to protect this signature waterway for generations to come.”

This EPA funding will help the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership work with community partners to design and build green infrastructure, as well as create stormwater-focused community education and outreach to help the public take actions to reduce toxics in the Basin.

This funding is provided through the Columbia River Restoration Program, which Merkley created in 2016 to help improve water quality and reduce pollution throughout the Columbia River Basin.

?

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-cassidy-to-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-crack-down-on-identity-fraud-from-ai,"Wyden, Cassidy to Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Crack Down on Identity Fraud from AI",2023-10-02,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced that he and U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, R-La., will introduce bipartisan legislation to combat rising cases of identity fraud from the use of artificial intelligence by allowing the United States Postal Service to offer identity verification and related services to the private sector like they currently do for government agencies.

“Criminals using hacked personal information made it hard enough to verify a person’s identity - now AI deepfakes have added add a whole new challenge for the most common verification methods,” Wyden said. “The best way to confirm who someone is, is in-person verification. I am proud to co-sponsor this common-sense legislation with Senator Cassidy to enable American businesses to partner with the Post Office to protect their customers from identity thieves.”

“AI is a powerful tool and while it has the potential for good, bad actors can exploit it to do harm,” said Cassidy. “As we learn to navigate a world with AI, Americans must have tools to combat identity fraud.”

The increased use of AI and complexity of deepfake technology has made it harder to verify people online. One of the most secure and reliable forms of identity verification is In-Person Proofing, where individuals present physical credentials that are checked in person by an attendant. This form of identity verification is resistant to many forms of fraud and abuse, particularly those that may be made worse by AI.

The POST ID Act would:

Allow, but does not require, the USPS to offer identity verification and related services to the private sector, building on its existing capabilities currently available only to government agencies;

Authorize USPS to issue authenticators to verified individuals, such as physical security keys, for use in future interactions;

Authorize USPS to conduct identity proofing at any USPS location, or through its authorized employees at any other location, such as the home of the individual being verified;

Subject to the consent of the individual being verified, allow for enrollment in or creation of digital accounts or systems convenient for the individual, including concurrent enrollment in multiple accounts or systems;

Allow for the creation of a mechanism whereby third parties may sponsor an individual by paying the fees for their verification; and

Authorize the USPS to charge such fees as necessary to cover the costs of providing these services.

“As we pointed out in our Policy Blueprint, adversaries have caught up with many of the systems America has used for remote identity proofing and verification, and the government needs to play a bigger role,” said Better Identity Coalition Coordinator Jeremy Grant. “The Postal Service already provides in-person identity proofing services when Americans need to get a passport, and it’s only natural that the private sector also be able to leverage those services when companies need a way to verify someone’s identity in person. We are thrilled that Senator Cassidy and Wyden are introducing legislation to make that possible.”

The proposed legislation is supported by the Better Identity Coalition and Okta.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-colleagues-urge-immediate-action-on-wildland-firefighter-pay-reform,"Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Urge Immediate Action on Wildland Firefighter Pay Reform",2023-09-29,2023,2023-09,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, Jeff Merkley and Senate colleagues this week called on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., to advance permanent, comprehensive pay reform for wildland firefighters in Oregon and nationwide as temporary pay increases are set to end.

“Firefighters deserve fair pay, support for their mental and physical health, and time to recover from their dangerous work. In a future with increasingly catastrophic wildfires, Congress cannot delay and deny this critical workforce’s needs,” the senators wrote.

A temporary pay increase was authorized in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), but new legislation is required to provide a permanent increase to firefighter pay. Senator Merkley, in his capacity as chair of the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, ensured that a provision maintaining the IIJA program for more than 20,000 federal firefighters was included in the Senate’s proposed bipartisan Continuing Resolution to extend government funding through November 17, and Senators Merkley and Wyden are continuing to press for a permanent fix.

In their letter, Wyden and Merkley noted that the increasing threat posed by wildfires has contributed to firefighter recruitment and retention challenges – including low pay, unaffordable housing and mental health strain.

“We are grateful for the bravery of our wildland firefighters. We remain committed to delivering permanent, comprehensive pay reform for our wildland firefighters by the end of this fiscal year,” the senators concluded.

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, D-Colo. Alongside Wyden and Merkley, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., Angus King, I-Maine, John Hickenlooper D-Colo., Jacky Rosen D-Nev., Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., and Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn.

The text of the letter is here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-klamath-tribes-earn-500000-federal-investment-in-upgraded-broadband,"Wyden, Merkley: Klamath Tribes Earn $500,000 Federal Investment in Upgraded Broadband",2023-09-29,2023,2023-09,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that the Klamath Tribes have secured a $500,000 federal grant to improve broadband service for its Tribal members in southern Oregon.

“Tribal communities in Oregon and nationwide need and deserve reliable, modern broadband for educational and job opportunities, small business growth, telehealth and more,” said Wyden, who earlier this year successfully fought to correct inaccuracies in the National Broadband Map that would have cost Oregon hundreds of millions of dollars in grants. “I’m glad the Klamath Tribes have earned this federal investment to achieve those key objectives, and I’ll keep battling to ensure all of Oregon’s Tribal communities have that same support for robust broadband in their communities.”

“In today’s world, reliable and affordable broadband is crucial for communities to succeed, including Tribal communities,” said Merkley. “Investments that improve access to high-speed internet will help support the economy, education, and quality of life for the Klamath Tribes, and I’ll continue doing all I can to secure resources that support Oregon’s Tribes.”

The $500,000 federal investment in the Klamath Tribes from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program will fund environmental technical studies and compliance documents, as well as network design and engineering to support the future deployment of a fixed wireless backhaul and last mile fiber-optic network. The Tribal Broadband Connectivity program offers grants to eligible Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian entities for high-speed internet deployment, digital inclusion, workforce development, telehealth, and distance learning.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-three-tribes-in-oregon-to-receive-more-than-23-million-in-us-justice-department-grants,"Wyden, Merkley: Three Tribes in Oregon to Receive More Than $2.3 Million in U.S. Justice Department Grants",2023-09-29,2023,2023-09,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Federal funds for Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon, and Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation to help survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and trafficking

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that three Tribes in Oregon have secured more than $2.3 million combined in federal grants to provide services and promote justice for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and trafficking.

“These federal funds will help to ensure Tribes in our state can do everything possible for members who have survived some of the most horrific crimes imaginable,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon, and Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation have secured these significant resources. And I’ll keep battling for similar federal investments throughout Oregon.”

“We must do all we can as a nation to prevent domestic violence and assault, and support survivors of these heinous crimes,” said Senator Merkley. “This funding from DOJ will allow Tribal communities across Oregon to provide critical services and pursue justice for survivors.”

The grants through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women will be distributed as follows to these Tribes in Oregon:

Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, $990,098

Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon. $750,000

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), $598,586

“The grant award will amplify CTUIR’s efforts in our continued work to significantly decrease violence against women and families in our community, increase access to essential services ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of our membership, and enhance the continuity of work provided by the Family Violence Program here on the Umatilla Indian Reservation,” said Corinne Sams, CTUIR Board of Trustees Member at Large, Chair of CTUIR Law & Order Commission. “Thank you Senator Wyden and Senator Merkley for your leadership and commitment to the Tribes of Oregon. “",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-help-make-higher-education-more-affordable,"Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Help Make Higher Education More Affordable",2023-09-28,2023,2023-09,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today that he and Senate colleagues have introduced legislation that would exclude Pell Grants from taxable income and make financial assistance more accessible to students pursuing higher education.

“Figuring out how to pay for college is hard enough without having to maneuver the inner workings of the U.S. tax code,"" Wyden said. ""This legislation would ensure that students are able to take full advantage of the aid they're entitled to —which would go a long way to help make college more affordable for students in Oregon and nationwide.""

The Tax-Free Pell Grant Act would remove financial barriers to higher education by better coordinating Pell Grants with the American Opportunity Tax Credit and fully excluding Pell Grants from taxable income.

Despite the success of the Pell Grant and American Opportunity Tax Credit, the current tax code and lack of coordination between the two programs prevent students from maximizing their benefits. Calculating the optimal amount of the Pell Grant to include in taxable income is complicated for those without access to sophisticated tax advice, so many students leave benefits on the table or forgo claiming the American Opportunity Tax Credit altogether. This issue primarily hurts students at lower-cost schools like community colleges.

The legislation is led by U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., and Chuck Grassley R-Iowa, alongside Wyden.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-reintroduces-legislation-to-expand-domestic-critical-mineral-supplies-fuel-clean-energy-manufacturing-and-reduce-dependence-on-foreign-oil-and-gas-imports,"Wyden Reintroduces Legislation to Expand Domestic Critical Mineral Supplies, Fuel Clean Energy Manufacturing and Reduce Dependence on Foreign Oil and Gas Imports",2023-09-28,2023,2023-09,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Wyden also calls for Congress to reform the Mining Law of 1872 “for the sake of our national security, economy and environment”

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today reintroduced legislation that would support the processing, manufacturing, and production of critical minerals that would reduce imports of critical minerals, ease reliance on foreign oil and gas and support domestic manufacturing.

“The historic clean energy package I authored in the Inflation Reduction Act has put our country on a supercharged path to secure clean energy independence and drastically cut carbon emissions. To expedite this clean energy revolution, I’ve reintroduced legislation that would help America become a competitive producer of critical minerals and a clean energy manufacturing powerhouse. My bill aims to help the United States wean itself off foreign oil, gas and critical mineral imports while also creating good-paying American jobs that are essential to building the next generation of batteries and other clean energy products,” Wyden said. “Additionally, for the sake of our national security, economy and environment, Congress desperately needs to reform the Mining Law of 1872. America has the expertise, infrastructure and natural resources to lead the world in critical mineral development, but doing so will require a 21st Century approach to capitalize on the opportunity.”

Critical minerals play a key role in the manufacturing of technologies like solar and wind power, electric car batteries and smartphones. Expanding domestic manufacturing of these technologies is vital as the U.S. makes the transition to energy independence and a clean energy future. The United States imports the majority of its critical minerals used in domestic manufacturing from Russia and China, which are some of the world’s leading producers of critical minerals.

The American Energy Development and Growth Enhancement (EDGE) Act would create a $50 million grant program under the Department of the Interior to fund and support the expansion and modernization of domestic critical mineral production and processing.

Last year, the Senate passed Wyden’s historic clean energy tax package as part of the Inflation Reduction Act which reforms the energy tax code to incentivize clean energy production, emissions reductions and secure energy independence.

A one-pager of the bill is here.

The text of the bill is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-curb-firearms-trafficking-to-mexican-drug-cartels,"Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Curb Firearms Trafficking to Mexican Drug Cartels",2023-09-27,2023,2023-09,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced he and Senate colleagues have introduced legislation that would prevent firearms trafficking from the United States to Mexico.

“International firearms trafficking puts lives in danger and helps criminals sell narcotics. This must end now,” Wyden said. “It’s time for Congress to address the proliferation of firearms trafficking and keep Americans safe from gun violence by passing the Stop Arming Cartels Act.”

The trafficking of firearms worsens violence, enables cartels and eases the illicit trade of narcotics back into the United States. According to a recent study from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, 70 percent of crime guns recovered from Mexico and submitted for tracing are U.S.-sourced.

The Stop Arming Cartels Act would:

Prohibit future nongovernmental manufacture, importation, sale, transfer, or possession of .50 caliber rifles.

Regulate existing .50 caliber rifles under the National Firearms Act, with a fee waiver and 12-month grace period for registration on the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record for those who lawfully possess them under current law.

Create an exception to the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act, allowing victims of gun violence to sue manufacturers and dealers who engage in firearm transactions prohibited under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act.

Prohibit the sale or transfer of firearms to individuals sanctioned under the Kingpin Act and add Kingpin Act designations to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.

Require firearms dealers to report multiple sales of rifles to state and local law enforcement agencies, as they must currently do for handguns.

The legislation was led by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, D-Ill. Alongside Wyden, the bill was led by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., Peter Welch, D-Vt., Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., and Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii.

The bill is endorsed by Brady: United Against Gun Violence, Everytown for Gun Safety, Giffords, Newtown Action Alliance, March for Our Lives, Global Exchange, Global Action on Gun Violence, Amnesty International USA, and The U.S. Conference of Mayors.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-markey-applaud-chairwoman-rosenworcel-for-proposed-broadband-net-neutrality-plan,"Wyden, Markey Applaud Chairwoman Rosenworcel for Proposed Broadband, Net Neutrality Plan",2023-09-27,2023,2023-09,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., released the following statement today after Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel announced plans to reinstate net neutrality rules and reclassify broadband as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act:

“Broadband is not a luxury. It is an essential utility and it is imperative that the FCC’s authority reflects the necessary nature of the internet in Americans’ lives today. We need net neutrality so that small businesses are not shoved into online slow-lanes, so that powerful social media companies cannot stifle competition, and so that users can always freely speak their minds on social media and advocate for the issues that are most important to them. We applaud Chairwoman Rosenworcel for her leadership and look forward to working with the FCC to ensure a just broadband future for everyone.”

Yesterday, Wyden and Markey led 25 of their Senate colleagues in a letter to Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel of the FCC to expeditiously reclassify broadband as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act and restore net neutrality protections.

Wyden, Markey, and Congresswoman Doris Matsui, D-Calif., previously introduced the Net Neutrality and Broadband Justice Act, legislation that would accurately classify broadband internet access as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act, giving the FCC the appropriate authority to reinstate net neutrality protections. In 2006, Wyden and Markey introduced the first neutrality bills in the Senate and House, respectively.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-colleagues-reintroduce-resolution-reaffirming-importance-of-clean-water-access-for-tribal-communities,"Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Reintroduce Resolution Reaffirming Importance of Clean Water Access for Tribal Communities",2023-09-27,2023,2023-09,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today that they and Senate colleagues have reintroduced a resolution emphasizing the federal government’s responsibility to provide access to clean drinking water for Tribal communities in Oregon and throughout the country.

“Everyone deserves access to clean water - yet today many Tribal communities across the country lack access to this vital natural resource,” Wyden said. “It’s time to reinvest and ramp up water infrastructure development in Oregon and nationwide to fully address inequalities in clean water access.”

“Access to clean water and dependable water infrastructure is crucial to Tribal communities here in Oregon and across the nation,” said Senator Merkley. “Oregon has seen firsthand the water shortages, boil notices, and shutdowns on the Warm Springs Reservation that show the unacceptable damage when Tribal water infrastructure is neglected. This resolution reaffirms the federal government’s responsibility to ensure Tribes in Oregon and beyond have access to clean, safe, and dependable drinking water.”

The lack of access to clean drinking water is a significant barrier for many Native American communities. According to HHS data, Native American households are 19 times more likely than white households to lack indoor plumbing. Lack of access to drinking water hurts health, education, economic development, and other aspects of daily life.

The resolution calls on the Executive Branch to employ a “whole of government” approach to ensure access to reliable, clean drinking water to households on Federal Indian reservations in Oregon and nationwide.

Alongside Wyden and Merkley, the resolution was led by U.S. Senators Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., and Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii. The resolution was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Patty Murray, D-Wash., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Jon Tester, D-Mont., Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., Ben Ray, Luján D-N.M., Angus King, I-Maine, Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., and Maria Cantwell, D-Wash.

The text of the resolution is here.

Last week, as Water and Power ENR Subcommittee Chair, Wyden announced a coordinated Senate effort to tackle America’s drinking water crisis and held a hearing to urge action on the drinking water access emergency—which included testimony from Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Chairman Jonathan W. Smith.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-statement-on-safer-banking-act,Wyden Statement on SAFER Banking Act,2023-09-27,2023,2023-09,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee passed the Secure And Fair Enforcement Regulation (SAFER) Banking Act:

“The U.S. Senate is finally on its way to making sure that small cannabis businesses can finally get access to banking services just like any other law-abiding businesses – no more wheelbarrows full of cash. The Senate has got to get this important legislation across the finish line for the sake of public safety, for equity, and so that small businesses in my state – and now almost every state -- get the chance to grow and compete.”

Wyden is a co-sponsor of the SAFER Banking Act.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-deschutes-river-conservancy-reauthorization-bill-passes-senate-committee6,"Merkley, Wyden Announce Deschutes River Conservancy Reauthorization Bill Passes Senate Committee",2023-09-26,2023,2023-09,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today that the Deschutes River Conservancy Reauthorization Act cleared a major hurdle by passing out of the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

The critical legislation would reauthorize the Deschutes River Conservancy’s (DRC) eligibility to receive federal funding for water quality and conservation projects—efforts critical to the restoration of wildlife and reducing agricultural runoff in Central Oregon rivers.

“The efforts of the Deschutes River Conservancy are critical to the quality of Oregon’s waterways, and their work goes hand-in-hand with the health of our environment,” said Merkley. “Reauthorizing the DRC’s ability to receive federal funding will directly impact the stability of our rivers and tributaries, and it’s great news that we cleared a key hurdle to making it to the President’s desk. I’ll keep at it until this legislation becomes law.”

“The Deschutes River Conservancy’s hard work to improve water conservation in Central Oregon has fully earned this reauthorization,” said Wyden, a senior member of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee. “I’m gratified this bill has taken a big step by passing out of committee, and I’ll continue battling to get this legislation enacted into law for all the Oregonians who count on the region’s rivers and tributaries.”

Founded in 1996, DRC initially focused on grazing and timber issues impacting river health but has shifted to water management in recent years. Following its reauthorization in 2005, DRC was eligible to receive $2 million per year for the next 10 years. However, no allocations were made during this time period and the organization currently relies on private donations or funding from local government entities.

This marks the first time the Deschutes River Conservancy Reauthorization Act in its current form has passed out of the committee, bringing it closer than ever to becoming law.

Since its creation, the DRC has helped restore 250 cubic feet per second of water to parts of the Deschutes River and surrounding tributaries. Upcoming projects will include addressing water quality issues in the Crooked River. The reauthorization would renew the DRC’s eligibility to receive funding from the Bureau of Reclamation, and funds will be matched at 50 percent.

The Deschutes River Conservancy Reauthorization Act would:

Authorize up to $2 million in funding per year for 10 years; and

Amend the congressional charter to reflect changes made to the DRC’s mission and board of directors.

“We are greatly encouraged by the Senate Committee's mark-up of the DRC Reauthorization Act,” Kate Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of the Deschutes River Conservancy, said. “This milestone is not just a testament to the regional significance of the Deschutes River, but also to the dedication to collaboration by our community and partners. This critical funding will help provide the resilience needed in the Deschutes River Basin for fish, farms and families into the future.”

“The DRC is a shining example of place-based decision-making with a strong record of success through collaboration,” said Chairman Jonathan W. Smith, Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs. “As an original founder of the organization, the Warm Springs Tribe strongly supports enactment of this legislation.”

“All of us appreciate Senators Merkley and Wyden’s leadership in advancing a reauthorization for the Deschutes River Conservancy,” Craig Horrell, President of Deschutes Basin Board of Control, said. “This legislation, once enacted into law, would enable the DRC to fulfill their mission to our community by supporting agriculture and the environment.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-bonamici-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-increase-food-security-for-oregon-college-students,"Wyden, Bonamici, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Increase Food Security for Oregon College Students",2023-09-26,2023,2023-09,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden and U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici today announced they introduced legislation that would help college students in Oregon and nationwide experiencing food insecurity have easier access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

“Being a college student is tough enough without having to also study federal rules and regulations to combat hunger,” Wyden said. “That’s why I’m proud to introduce legislation that makes SNAP benefits more accessible for students by eliminating common hurdles students face when applying for SNAP. I’ll fight hard in the Senate to get the Opportunity to Address College Hunger Act signed into law.”

“I accessed food assistance when I was in college; without it, I would not have had enough to eat,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “No college student should feel stigmatized for accessing food assistance when they need help. Many students have told me about the challenges they face in putting food on the table for themselves and their families while in school. The Opportunity to Address College Hunger Act will help students overcome barriers to the SNAP program and help students get the nutritious meals they need to thrive.”

Millions of eligible college students face barriers to enrollment including the complex application process and a lack of information from their institutions. Roughly 60% of students potentially eligible for SNAP do not receive benefits — mainly due to a lack of awareness, stigma, or burdensome application requirements.

The Opportunity to Address College Hunger Act would require colleges and universities to notify students participating in a state or federally financed work-study program of their potential eligibility for SNAP benefits, and provide these students with official eligibility documentation to help eliminate common hurdles that students face when applying for SNAP benefits. The bill would also require the U.S. Education Department and USDA to guide states and institutions of higher education on best practices to increase outreach to students potentially eligible for SNAP.

The legislation was led by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla in the Senate and Bonamici in the House. Alongside Wyden, the bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Michael Bennet, D-Colo., John Fetterman, D-Pa., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., Jeanne Shaheen D-N.H., and Peter Welch D-Vt.

The legislation was endorsed by MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Feeding America, National Education Association, American Federation of Teachers, Bread for the World, Center for Law and Social Policy, Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice, Institute for Higher Education Policy, Education Trust, Swipe Out Hunger, First Focus Campaign for Children, and Child and Student Nutrition Alliance.

The text of the bill is here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-durbin-krishnamoorthi-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-reduce-tobacco-use-in-america,"Wyden, Durbin, Krishnamoorthi, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Reduce Tobacco Use in America",2023-09-26,2023,2023-09,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"The Tobacco Tax Equity Act of 2023 would establish a new federal e-cigarette tax, increase tobacco tax rate, & close tax loopholes

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), along with U.S. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), today introduced the bicameral Tobacco Tax Equity Act of 2023.

The bill would close tax code loopholes for tobacco products by establishing a new federal tax on e-cigarettes, updating the federal cigarette tax rate to restore its public health impact, and harmonizing the tax rate across tobacco products to address gamesmanship by manufacturers. Establishing tax parity will generate significant federal revenue, reduce health care spending, and address one of the greatest public health challenges by lowering tobacco use, especially among youth. According to public health experts, increasing the price of tobacco products is the single most effective way to reduce tobacco use, particularly among children.

“Big Tobacco’s profits come at the expense of public health and lifelong youth addiction to a deadly product,” Wyden said. “It’s time to hold the tobacco industry accountable and save generations of teenagers. That’s why I’m committed to closing tax loopholes on tobacco products by establishing a new tax on e-cigarettes and updating the federal cigarette tax rate to restore its public health impact. The health of future generations depends on it.”

“We have made historic progress over the years to reduce the suffering from tobacco use. Our most effective strategy to help reduce smoking and prevent a new generation from becoming addicted is to price these deadly products out of the reach of children. But federal tobacco taxes have not been updated in 14 years, and the most popular tobacco product with children—e-cigarettes—are not taxed at the federal level, despite 30 states utilizing this important public health tool. Our bill would help reduce tobacco and e-cigarette use by ending loopholes that the industry has exploited to target our children. If America can kick its nicotine addiction, it would go a long way to improving our public health for generations to come,” said Durbin.

“As we continue to combat the youth vaping epidemic, we should reduce youth access to e-cigarettes by taxing them like other tobacco and nicotine products,” said Krishnamoorthi. “Our children are not for sale and by establishing a new tax on e-cigarettes, we can ensure Big Tobacco pays their fair share while making it harder for them to add to their bottom line by getting a new generation hooked.”

Joining Wyden and Durbin in introducing today’s bill in the Senate includes U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Ed Markey (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Jack Reed (D-RI).

The Tobacco Tax Equity Act of 2023 would close tax code loopholes for tobacco products by increasing the federal tax rate on cigarettes, pegging it to inflation to ensure it remains an effective public health tool, and setting the federal tax rate for all other tobacco products at this same level. While e-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among youth, and are now subject to the full regulatory framework of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Premarket Tobacco Product Applications, they are not subject to federal taxes—which has created an effective price discount that has contributed to the explosion of youth use of e-cigarettes. The Tobacco Tax Equity Act would follow the lead of 30 states and Washington, D.C. that have set their own state taxes, by setting a federal tax on these vaping products. The legislation also closes numerous tax and regulatory loopholes that the tobacco industry has exploited for large cigars, smokeless tobacco, and pipe tobacco by shifting production and sale schemes to avoid taxes and oversight, resulting in nearly $4 billion in lost federal revenue between 2009 and 2018. In addition, large cigars, smokeless tobacco, and pipe tobacco remain dramatically undertaxed compared to cigarettes, at a time when their use—especially among youth—is trending at a comparable rate to cigarettes.

Tobacco is the leading cause of preventable death, annually accounting for 480,000 deaths—or 1 out of every 5 deaths—in America. Nearly one-third of the middle and high school students using tobacco products use two or more tobacco products. Tobacco use costs more than $600 billion a year, including $241 billion in direct medical care, 60 percent of which is paid through government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, and $365 billion in lost productivity.

The Institute of Medicine, U.S. Surgeon General, and World Health Organization have determined that increasing the price of tobacco products is the single most effective way to reduce tobacco use, with studies showing a 10 percent cigarette price increase results in a three-five percent reduction in consumption. The Government Accountability Office and Healthy People 2020 Agenda have recommended increases to equalize federal tax rates across tobacco products.

The Tobacco Tax Equity Act of 2023 is endorsed by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, American Lung Association, American Heart Association, the American Public Health Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, Trust for America’s Health, and National Association of County and City Health Officials.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-to-hold-two-town-halls-next-week-in-klamath-lake-counties,"Wyden To Hold Two Town Halls Next Week in Klamath, Lake Counties",2023-09-26,2023,2023-09,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Open-to-all town halls in Klamath Falls will be on Oct. 7, in Lakeview on Oct. 8

Portland – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced he will have two in-person town halls next week in Klamath and Lake counties.

Wyden has already held 36 town halls so far throughout Oregon in 2023 and 1,063 town halls overall statewide in fulfillment of his pledge to hold at least one town hall each year in each of Oregon’s 36 counties.

“I’m very much looking forward to these open-to-all town halls in Klamath and Lake counties where any Oregonian can ask a question, voice an opinion and offer an idea,” Wyden said. “The ‘Oregon Way’ is all about participatory democracy and why I hold open-to-all town halls each year in each county.”

The schedule for the upcoming town halls is as follows:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z