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.merkley.senate.gov/ranking-member-shaheen-senators-tillis-rosen-barrasso-coons-king-moran-merkley-van-hollen-statement-on-russias-christmas-bombing-of-ukraine/,"Ranking Member Shaheen, Senators Tillis, Rosen, Barrasso, Coons, King, Moran, Merkley, Van Hollen Statement on Russia’s Christmas Bombing of Ukraine",2025-12-25,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"“We condemn Russia’s brutal attacks on Kherson, Chernihiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, Sumy, Donetsk and Kryvyi Rih waged on innocent Ukrainians as they convened to mark the birth of the Prince of Peace with their loved ones and in prayer.

“It bears repeating that President Zelenskyy agreed to a Christmas truce, but Putin declined, yet he directs soldiers to continue to commit brutal crimes of aggression on one of Christianity’s holiest days.

“Even for countries at war, there is a long history of Christmas ceasefires, including notably during World War I. Today’s decision by Putin to launch attacks rather than hold fire is a sobering reminder for us all: Putin is a ruthless murderer who has no interest in peace and cannot be trusted.

“We stand with the people of Kyiv, Odesa, Kharkiv, Kherson and Donetsk marking the birth of Christ under the most challenging of circumstances. Ukrainians’ faith is a stronger force than the evil unleashed today by the Kremlin.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/blumenthal-murkowski-merkley-lead-call-for-inspector-general-audit-following-dojs-failure-to-release-the-full-epstein-files-as-demanded-by-survivors-required-by-law/,"BLUMENTHAL, MURKOWSKI & MERKLEY LEAD CALL FOR INSPECTOR GENERAL AUDIT FOLLOWING DOJ’S FAILURE TO RELEASE THE FULL EPSTEIN FILES AS DEMANDED BY SURVIVORS, REQUIRED BY LAW",2025-12-24,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) led a bipartisan group of senators in writing Acting Inspector General Don Berthiaume requesting the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG) perform an audit of the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, bipartisan and bicameral legislation requiring the release of all records and documents relating to Jeffrey Epstein.

“Given the Administration’s historic hostility to releasing the files, politicization of the Epstein case more broadly, and failure to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a neutral assessment of its compliance with the statutory disclosure requirements is essential,” the senators wrote. “As such, we request that the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (“DOJ OIG”) perform an audit of the Department’s compliance with the statute.”

In addition to Blumenthal, Murkowski, and Merkley, today’s letter was signed by U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Gary Peters (D-MI).

“Full transparency—as called for bravely and repeatedly by survivors—is essential in identifying members of our society who enabled and participated in Epstein’s crimes,” the senators concluded. “Survivors deserve full disclosure. They also deserve the peace of mind that would be afforded by an independent audit of the Department’s compliance.”

The full text of today’s letter is available here and copied below.

Dear Acting Inspector General Berthiaume:

We write to you following the December 19 deadline imposed by the Epstein Files Transparency Act for the Department of Justice (“DOJ” or “the Department”) to release all records and documents relating to Jeffrey Epstein. By the Department’s own admission, it is in violation of the law—before DOJ had even begun to release the files, Deputy Attorney General Blanche admitted that it would not disclose them all by the December 19 deadline. And DOJ has lived up to that promise, failing to fully disclose the files in violation of the Act.

Not only has DOJ withheld files, but those records that were disclosed are largely information that was already public. Even those records are so heavily redacted that there are serious questions as to whether the Department is properly applying the limited exceptions for redaction that are permitted under the Act. Moreover, several records appear to have been removed, without explanation, from the files the Department did release.

Given the Administration’s historic hostility to releasing the files, politicization of the Epstein case more broadly, and failure to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a neutral assessment of its compliance with the statutory disclosure requirements is essential. As such, we request that the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (“DOJ OIG”) perform an audit of the Department’s compliance with the statute.

In passing the Epstein Files Transparency Act with overwhelming margins in both the House and the Senate, Congress demonstrated a clear, bipartisan mandate for public transparency in the Epstein case. The legislation expressly enumerates the limited circumstances in which withholding or redaction is permitted. Any withholding or redaction beyond those specified circumstances is against the law. But because Congress and the public do not have complete access to the Epstein documents, we are not able to fully assess for ourselves whether records were inappropriately withheld or redacted. DOJ OIG—with access to the full Epstein files and with independence from the larger Department—is ideally positioned to do a complete and independent assessment of the Administration’s compliance with the Act.

Despite calls from Epstein survivors for complete release of the documents, this Administration has shown consistent hostility towards transparency and a perceived willingness to weaponize the case for political ends. In February, Attorney General (“A.G.”) Bondi gave binders of supposedly newly declassified Epstein files—not to survivors, but to reported “right-wing influencers.” She also claimed that Epstein’s so-called “client list” was “sitting on [her] desk right now to review.” Yet, in July, DOJ and FBI released an unsigned memo directly contradicting her, and claiming it had found no evidence of Epstein having kept a client list. In August, Ghislaine Maxwell was moved to a lower security prison after two days of meetings with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. In November, President Trump expressly and publicly urged A.G. Bondi to investigate prominent Democrats and banks connected to Epstein. Just days later, A.G. Bondi announced she would follow the President’s command. These actions, including inconsistent public statements about the contents of the files, have raised fundamental questions about the Department’s willingness to faithfully and impartially comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act. These questions have only grown in volume since the incomplete release of files on December 19.

Given DOJ OIG’s ability to access the full set of Epstein files and its independence from the Department, it is ideally placed to perform an audit to ensure the Department’s compliance with the law. Such an audit is essential not only to ensure the Department has acted as the law requires, but also to maintain the public’s trust in the disclosure of the files and in the Department’s handling of the case. Specifically, DOJ OIG should ensure that: (1) redactions were properly applied to protect all survivors; (2) redactions were not used to shield abusers, perpetrators, or enablers; (3) records were not withheld for any reason other than those enumerated in the statute; (4) all withholding of records was appropriate under the statute and narrowly tailored; and (5) the Department did not consider politics in deciding whether or how to release documents.

We appreciate your attention to this important request. Full transparency—as called for bravely and repeatedly by survivors—is essential in identifying members of our society who enabled and participated in Epstein’s crimes. Survivors deserve full disclosure. They also deserve the peace of mind that would be afforded by an independent audit of the Department’s compliance.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/wyden-merkley-raise-alarm-over-loss-of-mental-health-access-in-eastern-oregon/,"Wyden, Merkley Raise Alarm Over Loss of Mental Health Access in Eastern Oregon",2025-12-24,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Senators: Trump and congressional Republicans’ budget bill threatens essential mental care for nearly 800 Malheur County residents enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today wrote health care providers serving Malheur County to ask how they’ll ensure nearly 800 residents keep access to the mental health services they need in the wake of new coordinated care organization (CCO) coverage changes brought on by the devastating cuts by Donald Trump and congressional Republicans to Medicaid.

“We understand your organization faces unprecedented financial strain as Oregon braces for nearly $4 billion in Medicaid cuts to rural communities alone signed into law by Donald Trump as part of Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill,” the lawmakers wrote to Greater Oregon Behavioral Health, Inc. CEO Ann Ford and Eastern Oregon CCO CEO Sean Jessup. “As you manage through this calamity, We ask that you do everything in your power to maximize access to a wide range of providers, ease patient transitions, and ensure continuity of care.”

“In Oregon, Malheur County stands to lose most of all. With more than half of its residents enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan, it has the highest share among Oregon’s 36 counties,” the lawmakers continued. “Among those enrolled, the vast majority (almost 80%) are children, nearly 25% have a disability, nearly 50% are Hispanic or Latino, and more than 25% speak Spanish as their primary language. We voted against these devastating cuts to protect these very residents and providers like yourselves.”

The senators asked Greater Oregon Behavioral Health, Inc. (GOBHI), which distributes Medicaid dollars for mental health in eastern Oregon, to answer the following questions no later than January 9, 2026:

How will GOHBI manage this process to limit disruption for patients and their health care providers?

What determination did GOHBI make to ensure network adequacy and sufficient access for patients?

What circumstances led GOHBI to make these changes to its provider network in 2026?

“We recognize your organizations are presented with an unworkable task,” Wyden and Merkley wrote. “Republicans’ Medicaid cuts will force health care providers throughout Oregon to do more with less. We will keep fighting to repeal these devastating cuts to health care for Malheur County and the countless other communities for which the Oregon Health Plan is a lifeline.”

The entire letter is below.

Ann Ford

Greater Oregon Behavioral Health, Inc.

3729 Klindt Dr.

The Dalles, OR 97058

Sean Jessup

Eastern Oregon Coordinated Care Organization

601 SW Second Ave

Portland, OR 97204

Dear Ms. Ford & Mr. Jessup,

We write with deep concern about recent reporting that nearly 800 residents of Malheur County enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan will not be able to see the mental health providers they rely on starting next year. We understand your organization faces unprecedented financial strain as Oregon braces for nearly $4 billion in Medicaid cuts to rural communities alone signed into law by Donald Trump as part of Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill. As you manage through this calamity, we ask that you do everything in your power to maximize access to a wide range of providers, ease patient transitions, and ensure continuity of care.

We know that Oregon’s families and health care providers are staring down the largest cuts to health care in U.S. history. Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill cuts federal funding for the U.S. health care system by over $1 trillion, raising health care costs for everyone while kicking 15 million Americans off of their health insurance. States, Medicaid managed care organizations, and health care providers will need to make impossibly hard choices. Already, the effects of these catastrophic cuts are harming rural communities like Malheur County. Hospitals are closing. Mental health counselors, nurses, doctors, and other essential health care workers are losing their jobs. Service access, especially care for new mothers and babies, is dwindling.

In Oregon, Malheur County stands to lose most of all. With more than half of its residents enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan, it has the highest share among Oregon’s 36 counties. Among those enrolled, the vast majority (almost 80%) are children, nearly 25% have a disability, nearly 50% are Hispanic or Latino, and more than 25% speak Spanish as their primary language. We voted against these devastating cuts to protect these very residents and providers like yourselves.

We recognize your organizations are presented with an unworkable task. Republicans’ Medicaid cuts will force health care providers throughout Oregon to do more with less. We will keep fighting to repeal these devastating cuts to health care for Malheur County and the countless other communities for which the Oregon Health Plan is a lifeline.

As you navigate this challenging landscape, we ask that you limit life-threatening disruptions for patients and their families and ensure the residents of Malheur County have ample access to a sufficient network of health care providers.We are hearing from members of the community who are deeply concerned about their ability to continue to see the doctor of their choice, and ask that you share answers to the following questions:

According to reports, the Greater Oregon Behavioral Health, Inc. (GOHBI) is offering a transition period, permitting patients to complete a current episode of treatment after January 1, 2026 with an out-of-network provider and allowing extension requests for medically-necessary care. How will GOHBI manage this process to limit disruption for patients and their health care providers?

What is GOHBI’s process for granting medically-necessary extensions?

Please describe appeals processes and other patient protections available to patients related to provider access.

You represent the best of our nation’s health care system, and we know you seek to do right by the patients with mental health and substance use disorders who you tirelessly serve. Please provide the requested information to Andrew Cutler at Andrew_Cutler@wyden.senate.gov no later than January 9th, 2026. Thank you for providing a prompt response to this inquiry.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-demand-trump-administration-pause-discriminatory-national-park-entry-fees,"Wyden, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration Pause Discriminatory National Park Entry Fees",2025-12-24,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Senators express concerns over January 1 implementation — without proper notice — of $250 America the Beautiful non-resident annual passes and $100 non-resident fee for highly visited national parks

Washington, DC — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) said today he has joined colleagues in calling on the Trump administration to pause its expensive new national park entry fees and annual passes for non-residents scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Wyden and the other senators emphasized these new passes and fees were not properly noticed in accordance with the law, will slow park entry, and will further limit international visitation. In late November, the federal Department of Interior announced a new fee structure for access to public lands. Beginning next year, the annual pass will cost $80 for U.S. citizens and residents and $250 for non-residents, the first time the United States has required proof of residency to have access to public lands. Non-residents age 16 and up who don’t have an annual pass will be forced to pay a $100 per person fee to enter 11 of the country’s most visited national parks.

“America’s national parks serve as destinations for visitors both domestically and internationally to experience our country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and history,” the senators wrote Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. “While we understand that entrance and recreation fees are vital to enhancing the visitor experience, we want to ensure all feel welcome to enjoy all national treasures. Since these new fees are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, we strongly believe these fees are being implemented too quickly, without public input, and will be a barrier for both residents and non-residents alike.”

“We request that you stop implementation of the new non-resident passes and fees until the public has an opportunity to weigh in, impacts to visitation are studied, and clarity on implementation is provided to Congress, NPS employees, and impacted stakeholders,” the senators wrote.

The National Park Service is permitted to collect and retain entrance and recreation fees under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act. These fees play an important role in making sure these parks can provide a positive visitor experience for citizens and non-residents alike. However, the law requires the Secretary of the Interior to allow the public the chance weigh in on the development of or changes to recreation fees, and it mandates advanced notice to affected communities in local publications. The senators criticized the administration for failing to provide this legally required opportunity for public input.

In addition to Wyden, the letter led by U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) was also signed by Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.).

The senators also warned that this plan would further strain the understaffed Park Service workforce, as the Trump administration has cut 24% of permanent Park Service employees since January, including positions like fee collectors and information technology specialists. These staffing shortages will likely further compound entry delays, especially at the highly visited parks charging an extra $100 for non-residents.

With overseas visitation to national parks already down over 3% (and down 25% for visitors from Canada), the senators expressed concerns that these numbers could fall even further with the steep price of non-resident passes, hurting the U.S. economy.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-raise-alarm-over-loss-of-mental-health-access-in-eastern-oregon,"Wyden, Merkley Raise Alarm Over Loss of Mental Health Access in Eastern Oregon",2025-12-24,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Senators: Trump and congressional Republicans’ budget bill threatens essential mental care for nearly 800 Malheur County residents enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today wrote health care providers serving Malheur County to ask how they’ll ensure nearly 800 residents keep access to the mental health services they need in the wake of new coordinated care organization (CCO) coverage changes brought on by the devastating cuts by Donald Trump and congressional Republicans to Medicaid.

“We understand your organization faces unprecedented financial strain as Oregon braces for nearly $4 billion in Medicaid cuts to rural communities alone signed into law by Donald Trump as part of Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill,” the lawmakers wrote to Greater Oregon Behavioral Health, Inc. CEO Ann Ford and Eastern Oregon CCO CEO Sean Jessup. “As you manage through this calamity, We ask that you do everything in your power to maximize access to a wide range of providers, ease patient transitions, and ensure continuity of care.”

“In Oregon, Malheur County stands to lose most of all. With more than half of its residents enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan, it has the highest share among Oregon’s 36 counties,” the lawmakers continued. “Among those enrolled, the vast majority (almost 80%) are children, nearly 25% have a disability, nearly 50% are Hispanic or Latino, and more than 25% speak Spanish as their primary language. We voted against these devastating cuts to protect these very residents and providers like yourselves.”

The senators asked Greater Oregon Behavioral Health, Inc. (GOBHI), which distributes Medicaid dollars for mental health in eastern Oregon, to answer the following questions no later than January 9, 2026:

How will GOHBI manage this process to limit disruption for patients and their health care providers?

What determination did GOHBI make to ensure network adequacy and sufficient access for patients?

What circumstances led GOHBI to make these changes to its provider network in 2026?

“We recognize your organizations are presented with an unworkable task,” Wyden and Merkley wrote. “Republicans’ Medicaid cuts will force health care providers throughout Oregon to do more with less. We will keep fighting to repeal these devastating cuts to health care for Malheur County and the countless other communities for which the Oregon Health Plan is a lifeline.”

The entire letter is below.

Ann Ford

Greater Oregon Behavioral Health, Inc.

3729 Klindt Dr.

The Dalles, OR 97058

Sean Jessup

Eastern Oregon Coordinated Care Organization

601 SW Second Ave

Portland, OR 97204

Dear Ms. Ford & Mr. Jessup,

We write with deep concern about recent reporting that nearly 800 residents of Malheur County enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan will not be able to see the mental health providers they rely on starting next year. We understand your organization faces unprecedented financial strain as Oregon braces for nearly $4 billion in Medicaid cuts to rural communities alone signed into law by Donald Trump as part of Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill. As you manage through this calamity, we ask that you do everything in your power to maximize access to a wide range of providers, ease patient transitions, and ensure continuity of care.

We know that Oregon’s families and health care providers are staring down the largest cuts to health care in U.S. history. Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill cuts federal funding for the U.S. health care system by over $1 trillion, raising health care costs for everyone while kicking 15 million Americans off of their health insurance. States, Medicaid managed care organizations, and health care providers will need to make impossibly hard choices. Already, the effects of these catastrophic cuts are harming rural communities like Malheur County. Hospitals are closing. Mental health counselors, nurses, doctors, and other essential health care workers are losing their jobs. Service access, especially care for new mothers and babies, is dwindling.

In Oregon, Malheur County stands to lose most of all. With more than half of its residents enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan, it has the highest share among Oregon’s 36 counties. Among those enrolled, the vast majority (almost 80%) are children, nearly 25% have a disability, nearly 50% are Hispanic or Latino, and more than 25% speak Spanish as their primary language. We voted against these devastating cuts to protect these very residents and providers like yourselves.

We recognize your organizations are presented with an unworkable task. Republicans’ Medicaid cuts will force health care providers throughout Oregon to do more with less. We will keep fighting to repeal these devastating cuts to health care for Malheur County and the countless other communities for which the Oregon Health Plan is a lifeline.

As you navigate this challenging landscape, we ask that you limit life-threatening disruptions for patients and their families and ensure the residents of Malheur County have ample access to a sufficient network of health care providers.We are hearing from members of the community who are deeply concerned about their ability to continue to see the doctor of their choice, and ask that you share answers to the following questions:

According to reports, the Greater Oregon Behavioral Health, Inc. (GOHBI) is offering a transition period, permitting patients to complete a current episode of treatment after January 1, 2026 with an out-of-network provider and allowing extension requests for medically-necessary care. How will GOHBI manage this process to limit disruption for patients and their health care providers?

What is GOHBI’s process for granting medically-necessary extensions?

Please describe appeals processes and other patient protections available to patients related to provider access.

Reports suggest GOHBI’s changes to the Malheur County provider network will reduce the number of available mental health and substance use disorder providers from four to just one, representing a dramatic downward shift. What determination did GOHBI make to ensure network adequacy and sufficient access for patients?

Does GOHBI have plans to monitor patient access throughout 2026?

What circumstances led GOHBI to make these changes to its provider network in 2026?

Were anticipated cuts to the Oregon Health Plan a factor? Thank you.

You represent the best of our nation’s health care system, and we know you seek to do right by the patients with mental health and substance use disorders who you tirelessly serve. Please provide the requested information to Andrew Cutler at Andrew_Cutler@wyden.senate.gov no later than January 9th, 2026. Thank you for providing a prompt response to this inquiry.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-960881-coming-to-wasco-county-for-distance-learning,"Merkley, Wyden Announce $960,881 Coming to Wasco County for Distance Learning",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,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 a federal investment of $960,881 for the Dufur School District 29 to support distance learning in Wasco County. With this funding, instructors at Portland Community College in Multnomah County, Baker Technical Institute in Baker County, Columbia Gorge Community College in Wasco County, and the Oregon Veterans Home in Wasco County will deliver technical training, STEM coursework, and certified nurse assistant training courses to three locations benefiting 655 Dufur School District 29 students.

“As I hold a town hall in each of Oregon’s 36 counties every year, I frequently hear from folks about the challenges they are facing, especially in rural communities that have unique hurdles in accessing education and health care services,” said Merkley. “This critical investment will ensure that working families living in more remote communities will have better access to the tools and services they need to thrive.”

“Distance to a city should not determine whether or not hard-working students are able to access a quality education,” said Wyden. “This grant closes that gap and ensures students in Wasco County can gain the technical skills required to expand the healthcare workforce. I applaud this federal award to Dufur School District, and I will fight for more programs like this that provide opportunities for students living in Oregon’s rural communities.”

This federal funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development’s Distance Learning & Telemedicine Grants, which help rural communities access advanced telecommunications technology.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-led-bipartisan-resolution-recognizing-30-years-of-u-s-vietnam-relationship-passes-senate/,Merkley-led Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing 30 Years of U.S.-Vietnam Relationship Passes Senate,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley—a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee—announced that his bipartisan resolution marking the 30th anniversary of the normalization of relations between the United States and Vietnam unanimously passed the Senate. Merkley led the resolution alongside U.S. Senator Steve Daines (R-MT).

“Vietnam is a critical partner to the United States, and only together will we be able to tackle the most pressing challenges facing our two nations,” said Merkley.“The unanimous passage of our bipartisan resolution reaffirms the Senate’s commitment to sustaining a productive bilateral relationship, ongoing support of war legacy programs to bring closure to all who suffered in the Vietnam War, and our determination to work together to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.”

As a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, & International Cybersecurity Policy, Merkley has long advocated for the United States’ strategic partnerships in the region, including with Vietnam. In 2023, he led a bicameral congressional delegation to Vietnam, meeting with senior Vietnamese government officials, examining the painful wartime legacy of the Vietnam conflict, and traveling to a town on the Mekong River experiencing rising sea levels due to climate chaos.

Full text of the bipartisan resolution can be found by clicking here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-wyden-announce-960881-coming-to-wasco-county-for-distance-learning/,"Merkley, Wyden Announce $960,881 Coming to Wasco County for Distance Learning",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced a federal investment of $960,881 for the Dufur School District 29 to support distance learning in Wasco County. With this funding, instructors at Portland Community College in Multnomah County, Baker Technical Institute in Baker County, Columbia Gorge Community College in Wasco County, and the Oregon Veterans Home in Wasco County will deliver technical training, STEM coursework, and certified nurse assistant training courses to three locations benefiting 655 Dufur School District 29 students.

“As I hold a town hall in each of Oregon’s 36 counties every year, I frequently hear from folks about the challenges they are facing, especially in rural communities that have unique hurdles in accessing education and health care services,” said Merkley. “This critical investment will ensure that working families living in more remote communities will have better access to the tools and services they need to thrive.”

“Distance to a city should not determine whether or not hard-working students are able to access a quality education,” said Wyden. “This grant closes that gap and ensures students in Wasco County can gain the technical skills required to expand the healthcare workforce. I applaud this federal award to Dufur School District, and I will fight for more programs like this that provide opportunities for students living in Oregon’s rural communities.”

This federal funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development’s Distance Learning & Telemedicine Grants, which help rural communities access advanced telecommunications technology.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-wyden-colleagues-urge-trump-administration-to-end-staffing-crisis-at-fish-and-wildlife-service-warn-of-devastating-impacts-to-ecosystems-and-public-lands/,"Merkley, Wyden, Colleagues Urge Trump Administration to End Staffing Crisis at Fish and Wildlife Service, Warn of Devastating Impacts to Ecosystems and Public Lands",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR)—the top Democrat overseeing funding for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)—and U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR)—former chairman and current senior member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources—joined their colleagues in urging the administration to immediately address and reverse the staffing crisis at the FWS, which has lost the capacity to properly manage most of America’s wildlife refuges, putting in jeopardy the ability to protect endangered wildlife species under the Service’s care.

In a letter to U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and FWS Director Brian Nesvik, the Senators highlight the direct impacts cuts in staffing are having on the 573 national wildlife refuges across the country—with almost 60 percent of them lacking the resources and staff needed to fulfill their missions. According to public reports, Oregon and Washington have lost a combined 50 senior level scientists and staff.

“Americans of all backgrounds love their public lands, and protecting wildlife refuges is a bipartisan cause that brings together environmentalists, sportsmen, and all who enjoy the outdoor recreation opportunities provided by America’s National Wildlife Refuge System. The Refuge System is the only federal network of public lands that is primarily dedicated to the conservation, management, and restoration of fish, wildlife, and plant species and their habitats,” the Senators wrote.

“This downward trend did not begin under the Trump administration. Yet the current administration has not only shown an unwillingness to address the problem—it has made the situation far worse. The President’s Fiscal Year 26 budget request slashed funding for FWS’s overall Resource Management account, which included a proposed 22 percent cut to the National Wildlife Refuge System. Moreover, the administration has indicated that it is planning more firings for public land agencies,” the Senators continued.

The Senators also emphasized that operating with few or no employees has also hurt disaster resilience because FWS employees carry out projects to control flooding and prevent catastrophic wildfires.

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Fisheries, Water, and Wildlife, and was also signed by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawai’i), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawai’i), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).

The full text of the letter can be found here and below.

Dear Secretary Burgum and Director Nesvik:

We write to sound the alarm on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (FWS) staffing crisis, which is causing particular harm to the National Wildlife Refuge System. A startling amount of staff and expertise needed to manage the Refuge System and protect America’s wildlife have been lost due to the administration’s firings, early retirement programs, and other efforts to push staff out of FWS. The agency is losing the capacity to manage America’s wildlife refuges and struggling to even keep them open. We ask that you provide Congress with your plan to address FWS’s staffing crisis and immediately act to ensure that FWS and the Refuge System have the staff and resources needed to guarantee a safe, quality experience for visitors to the Refuge System and to protect the invaluable wildlife species under the agency’s care.

Americans of all backgrounds love their public lands, and protecting wildlife refuges is a bipartisan cause that brings together environmentalists, sportsmen, and all who enjoy the outdoor recreation opportunities provided by America’s National Wildlife Refuge System. The Refuge System is the only federal network of public lands that is primarily dedicated to the conservation, management, and restoration of fish, wildlife, and plant species and their habitats. There are 573 national wildlife refuges across the country, with a footprint in every state. The Refuge System also utilizes a unique conservation approach through community-based initiatives that provide recreational and sporting opportunities and other localized needs. According to FWS, wildlife refuge recreation generates $3.2 billion in local economic activity each year. Every dollar that is invested in the Refuge System generates $3.12 in U.S. economic activity, a tremendous return on investment for the American taxpayer.

However, according to recently released internal agency documents, almost 60 percent of the nation’s wildlife refuges lack the resources and staff needed to fulfill their missions. FWS has experienced a staggering 29 percent loss of employees who work for the Refuge System. This downward trend did not begin under the Trump administration. Yet the current administration has not only shown an unwillingness to address the problem—it has made the situation far worse. The President’s Fiscal Year 26 budget request slashed funding for FWS’s overall Resource Management account, which included a proposed 22 percent cut to the National Wildlife Refuge System. Moreover, the administration has indicated that it is planning more firings for public land agencies.

Staffing reductions have negatively impacted national wildlife refuges across the country, forcing multiple wildlife refuges to operate with few or no employees. FWS’s internal estimates indicate that 9 percent of wildlife refuges are now classified as “shuttered.” It appears that FWS has abandoned these refuges, as there may not be a single employee on the ground to manage the refuge.

The consequences of slashing the FWS workforce are already being felt across the nation. The collapse of staffing capacity within the Refuge System leaves refuges open to damage, vandalism, flooding, fire, and loss of protection and conservation measures for threatened and endangered wildlife species who rely on these refuges for survival. FWS staffing losses also hurt resilience because FWS employees carry out projects to control flooding and prevent catastrophic wildfires.

It has also become more difficult for the agency to meet deadlines to list species as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act, an already challenging but essential obligation. This delay in work pushes endangered species closer to extinction and prevents infrastructure projects from moving forward, as they may encounter difficulties with acquiring needed permits amid such regulatory uncertainty.

Considering the alarming scale of FWS’s staffing crisis, we request answers to the following by January 2, 2026:

Will you commit to reversing the staffing losses at FWS? What is your plan to address FWS’s debilitating loss in capacity?

Has the Administration considered the impact of decimating the FWS workforce on the economics of gateway communities?

Does the Administration still plan on moving forward with firing more FWS employees, even as those firings are being stopped by federal courts?

How is FWS planning to meet deadlines to list species as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act?

Protecting natural resources for Americans has always been a bipartisan effort and it is important that FWS has the workforce required to meet its core mandates. Thank you, and we look forward to your response.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-colleagues-urge-trump-administration-to-end-staffing-crisis-at-fish-and-wildlife-service-warn-of-devastating-impacts-to-ecosystems-and-public-lands,"Merkley, Wyden, Colleagues Urge Trump Administration to End Staffing Crisis at Fish and Wildlife Service, Warn of Devastating Impacts to Ecosystems and Public Lands",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR)—the top Democrat overseeing funding for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)—and U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR)—former chairman and current senior member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources—joined their colleagues in urging the administration to immediately address and reverse the staffing crisis at the FWS, which has lost the capacity to properly manage most of America’s wildlife refuges, putting in jeopardy the ability to protect endangered wildlife species under the Service’s care.

In a letter to U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and FWS Director Brian Nesvik, the Senators highlight the direct impacts cuts in staffing are having on the 573 national wildlife refuges across the country—with almost 60 percent of them lacking the resources and staff needed to fulfill their missions. According to public reports, Oregon and Washington have lost a combined 50 senior level scientists and staff.

“Americans of all backgrounds love their public lands, and protecting wildlife refuges is a bipartisan cause that brings together environmentalists, sportsmen, and all who enjoy the outdoor recreation opportunities provided by America’s National Wildlife Refuge System. The Refuge System is the only federal network of public lands that is primarily dedicated to the conservation, management, and restoration of fish, wildlife, and plant species and their habitats,” the Senators wrote.

“This downward trend did not begin under the Trump administration. Yet the current administration has not only shown an unwillingness to address the problem—it has made the situation far worse. The President’s Fiscal Year 26 budget request slashed funding for FWS’s overall Resource Management account, which included a proposed 22 percent cut to the National Wildlife Refuge System. Moreover, the administration has indicated that it is planning more firings for public land agencies,” the Senators continued.

The Senators also emphasized that operating with few or no employees has also hurt disaster resilience because FWS employees carry out projects to control flooding and prevent catastrophic wildfires.

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Fisheries, Water, and Wildlife, and was also signed by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawai'i), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawai'i), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).

The full text of the letter can be found here and below.

Dear Secretary Burgum and Director Nesvik:

We write to sound the alarm on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (FWS) staffing crisis, which is causing particular harm to the National Wildlife Refuge System. A startling amount of staff and expertise needed to manage the Refuge System and protect America’s wildlife have been lost due to the administration’s firings, early retirement programs, and other efforts to push staff out of FWS. The agency is losing the capacity to manage America’s wildlife refuges and struggling to even keep them open. We ask that you provide Congress with your plan to address FWS’s staffing crisis and immediately act to ensure that FWS and the Refuge System have the staff and resources needed to guarantee a safe, quality experience for visitors to the Refuge System and to protect the invaluable wildlife species under the agency’s care.

Americans of all backgrounds love their public lands, and protecting wildlife refuges is a bipartisan cause that brings together environmentalists, sportsmen, and all who enjoy the outdoor recreation opportunities provided by America’s National Wildlife Refuge System. The Refuge System is the only federal network of public lands that is primarily dedicated to the conservation, management, and restoration of fish, wildlife, and plant species and their habitats. There are 573 national wildlife refuges across the country, with a footprint in every state. The Refuge System also utilizes a unique conservation approach through community-based initiatives that provide recreational and sporting opportunities and other localized needs. According to FWS, wildlife refuge recreation generates $3.2 billion in local economic activity each year. Every dollar that is invested in the Refuge System generates $3.12 in U.S. economic activity, a tremendous return on investment for the American taxpayer.

However, according to recently released internal agency documents, almost 60 percent of the nation’s wildlife refuges lack the resources and staff needed to fulfill their missions. FWS has experienced a staggering 29 percent loss of employees who work for the Refuge System. This downward trend did not begin under the Trump administration. Yet the current administration has not only shown an unwillingness to address the problem—it has made the situation far worse. The President’s Fiscal Year 26 budget request slashed funding for FWS’s overall Resource Management account, which included a proposed 22 percent cut to the National Wildlife Refuge System. Moreover, the administration has indicated that it is planning more firings for public land agencies.

Staffing reductions have negatively impacted national wildlife refuges across the country, forcing multiple wildlife refuges to operate with few or no employees. FWS’s internal estimates indicate that 9 percent of wildlife refuges are now classified as “shuttered.” It appears that FWS has abandoned these refuges, as there may not be a single employee on the ground to manage the refuge.

The consequences of slashing the FWS workforce are already being felt across the nation. The collapse of staffing capacity within the Refuge System leaves refuges open to damage, vandalism, flooding, fire, and loss of protection and conservation measures for threatened and endangered wildlife species who rely on these refuges for survival. FWS staffing losses also hurt resilience because FWS employees carry out projects to control flooding and prevent catastrophic wildfires.

It has also become more difficult for the agency to meet deadlines to list species as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act, an already challenging but essential obligation. This delay in work pushes endangered species closer to extinction and prevents infrastructure projects from moving forward, as they may encounter difficulties with acquiring needed permits amid such regulatory uncertainty.

Considering the alarming scale of FWS’s staffing crisis, we request answers to the following by January 2, 2026:

Will you commit to reversing the staffing losses at FWS? What is your plan to address FWS’s debilitating loss in capacity?

Has the Administration considered the impact of decimating the FWS workforce on the economics of gateway communities?

Does the Administration still plan on moving forward with firing more FWS employees, even as those firings are being stopped by federal courts?

How is FWS planning to meet deadlines to list species as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act?

Protecting natural resources for Americans has always been a bipartisan effort and it is important that FWS has the workforce required to meet its core mandates. Thank you, and we look forward to your response.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-trump-administration-breaking-the-law-by-failing-to-comply-with-epstein-files-transparency-act/,Merkley: Trump Administration Breaking the Law by Failing to Comply with Epstein Files Transparency Act,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley—the lead Senate sponsor of the Epstein Files Transparency Act—issued the following statement after the Trump Administration indicated it would only release part of the Epstein Files, a violation of the law he championed:

“The Trump Administration has had almost one year since Trump returned to office to appropriately redact the Epstein Files to prepare them for release. Instead of meeting the legally required deadline today to release all of the files, they have chosen to illegally disregard the law I led the fight in the Senate to pass. By failing to comply, the Administration is openly denying ‘equal justice under the law’ to all of Jeffrey Epstein’s victims.

“It is beyond unacceptable that Donald Trump would side with the rich and powerful to help cover up the abuse of our most vulnerable. I’ll keep fighting to release all the Epstein Files and am exploring all avenues and legal tools to get justice for the victims and transparency for the American people.”

Earlier this month, Merkley led a bipartisan group of lawmakers to demand a briefing from Attorney General Pam Bondi on the U.S. Department of Justice’s efforts to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act and fully release the Epstein Files by December 19, 2025. In response to the Trump Administration’s failure to provide said briefing, he teamed up with New Mexico’s U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján—who co-led the Senate introduction of the Epstein Files Transparency Act with Merkley—to block over 90 pending civilian nominations before the Senate from being carried over to the new session of Congress.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-wyden-announce-2-2-million-in-federal-support-for-coastal-erosion-work-in-lincoln-county/,"Merkley, Wyden Announce $2.2 Million in Federal Support for Coastal Erosion Work in Lincoln County",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Funds will support MidCoast Watersheds Council’s work in Siletz and Yaquina Estuaries

Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) is awarding $2,210,835 to the MidCoast Watersheds Council to restore 125 acres of tidal wetlands and 6.2 miles of stream channels across Oregon’s Siletz and Yaquina estuaries in Lincoln County to enhance habitat for salmonids and buffer communities from storm surge.

Tidal wetlands on Oregon’s central coast are increasingly threatened by coastal erosion, flooding, drought, and degraded water quality. The project will reduce flood risk and enhance sediment retention for local communities through floodplain reconnection, fish passage improvements, native plant and tidal channel restoration, large wood placement, and native Olympia oyster reef reestablishment.

“The health of Oregon’s estuaries is vital to our state’s ecosystems and communities,” said Merkley, who serves as the top Democrat on the spending subcommittee that oversees funding for NFWF. “This critical federal funding along with strong matching support will leverage MidCoast Watersheds Council’s work in restoring tidal wetlands and reducing risk to the community at the same time.”

“As extreme weather continues to disrupt fragile coastal ecosystems, Oregon’s coastal communities suffer,” said Wyden. “I applaud this federal award to the MidCoast Watersheds Council that improves the resilience of Oregon’s Siletz and Yaquina estuaries, and I will continue to support programs that protect communities from the worsening effects of the climate crisis.”

“The degradation of tidal wetlands has not only negatively affected our beloved and economically important fish and wildlife species, including our resident Chinook, coho, and chum salmon, but it has made coastal residents more vulnerable to storms, sea level rise, and coastal flooding. Restoring and protecting tidal wetlands not only helps all these critters, but everyone who lives, visits, or loves the Oregon coast,” said Evan Hayduk, Executive Director of the MidCoast Watersheds Council (MCWC).

“I would like to congratulate Evan and Staff at MCWC for receiving this grant and look forward to seeing their restoration projects in the Siletz and Yaquina estuaries. I also want to acknowledge the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for their funding of these projects in Lincoln County,” said Lincoln County Commissioner Walter Chuck.

The grant for MidCoast Watersheds Council comes from NFWF’s National Coastal Resilience Fund, in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). In addition to the $2.2 million in federal funding, the project has secured $1,803,423 in matching funds, bringing the total project funds to $4,014,258.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/wyden-merkley-colleagues-celebrate-srs-reauthorization-for-rural-oregon-counties/,"Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Celebrate SRS Reauthorization for Rural Oregon Counties",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today celebrated the signing of their bipartisan Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act into law, reauthorizing funding for the U.S. Forest Service’s Secure Rural Schools and Self-Determination Program (SRS) through FY 2026 and providing lapsed payments to counties in Oregon and nationwide for FY 2024 and 2025.

“The Secure Rural Schools program has been a lifeline for rural communities across Oregon and nationwide since I originally authored the program back in 2000. I’m grateful we were able to get our legislation over the finish line to restore funding for communities that need it the most,” Wyden said. “This lapse in funding is exactly why we need a permanent solution to get rural communities off the financial rollercoaster and ensure they have the support they need to not just survive, but thrive.”

“With our bipartisan bill now law, the federal government has finally taken action to restore funding that is crucial to keeping schools open, maintaining roads, restoring watersheds, and ensuring there are police officers and firefighters to keep rural communities safe,” Merkley said. “Extending the SRS program ensures Oregon communities and local governments can maintain access to these important lifelines and resources.”

SRS expired in FY 2023, and the last payment from the program went out in calendar year 2024. As a result of the expiration, counties have reverted back to the 1908 and 1937 revenue sharing laws. This has meant counties have only received 25% from the Forest Service and 50% from the Bureau of Land Management of all revenue generated on federal lands in those counties since 2024, resulting in diminished funding for critical resources like law enforcement, schools, roads, and more.

The reauthorization means an estimated $75 million for the 33 Oregon counties that receive SRS payments.

SRS was authored by Wyden and enacted in 2000 to financially assist counties with public, tax-exempt forestlands. The U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management administer the funds. The totals are based on a formula including economic activity, timber harvest levels and other considerations that vary from county to county. SRS payments are critical to maintain education programs for many rural counties that contain federal lands exempt from property taxes. Earlier in December, Wyden and Merkley led a bipartisan coalition of 85 lawmakers urging House leadership to reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) and Self Determination Act.

“We are grateful to the Oregon federal delegation for their unremitting support of this program — a lifeline for our counties and schools,” said Gina Nikkel, Executive Director of the Association of Oregon Counties. “Rural counties rely on SRS payments to provide numerous critical services for their communities, such as rural county roads, education, conservation projects, search and rescue missions, and wildfire prevention programs. We look forward to continuing to work with our federal partners for a permanent funding source for rural counties.”

In addition to Senators Wyden and Merkley, the legislation was also led by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, and Jim Risch, R-Idaho.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-22-million-in-federal-support-for-coastal-erosion-work-in-lincoln-county,"Merkley, Wyden Announce $2.2 Million in Federal Support for Coastal Erosion Work in Lincoln County",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Funds will support MidCoast Watersheds Council’s work in Siletz and Yaquina Estuaries

Washington, D.C. - Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) is awarding $2,210,835 to the MidCoast Watersheds Council to restore 125 acres of tidal wetlands and 6.2 miles of stream channels across Oregon's Siletz and Yaquina estuaries in Lincoln County to enhance habitat for salmonids and buffer communities from storm surge.

Tidal wetlands on Oregon's central coast are increasingly threatened by coastal erosion, flooding, drought, and degraded water quality. The project will reduce flood risk and enhance sediment retention for local communities through floodplain reconnection, fish passage improvements, native plant and tidal channel restoration, large wood placement, and native Olympia oyster reef reestablishment.

“The health of Oregon’s estuaries is vital to our state’s ecosystems and communities,” said Merkley, who serves as the top Democrat on the spending subcommittee that oversees funding for NFWF. “This critical federal funding along with strong matching support will leverage MidCoast Watersheds Council’s work in restoring tidal wetlands and reducing risk to the community at the same time.”

“As extreme weather continues to disrupt fragile coastal ecosystems, Oregon’s coastal communities suffer,” said Wyden. “I applaud this federal award to the MidCoast Watersheds Council that improves the resilience of Oregon’s Siletz and Yaquina estuaries, and I will continue to support programs that protect communities from the worsening effects of the climate crisis.”

“The degradation of tidal wetlands has not only negatively affected our beloved and economically important fish and wildlife species, including our resident Chinook, coho, and chum salmon, but it has made coastal residents more vulnerable to storms, sea level rise, and coastal flooding. Restoring and protecting tidal wetlands not only helps all these critters, but everyone who lives, visits, or loves the Oregon coast,” said Evan Hayduk, Executive Director of the MidCoast Watersheds Council (MCWC).

""I would like to congratulate Evan and Staff at MCWC for receiving this grant and look forward to seeing their restoration projects in the Siletz and Yaquina estuaries. I also want to acknowledge the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for their funding of these projects in Lincoln County,” said Lincoln County Commissioner Walter Chuck.

The grant for MidCoast Watersheds Council comes from NFWF’s National Coastal Resilience Fund, in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). In addition to the $2.2 million in federal funding, the project has secured $1,803,423 in matching funds, bringing the total project funds to $4,014,258.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-colleagues-celebrate-srs-reauthorization-for-rural-oregon-counties,"Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Celebrate SRS Reauthorization for Rural Oregon Counties",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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 celebrated the signing of their bipartisan Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act into law, reauthorizing funding for the U.S. Forest Service’s Secure Rural Schools and Self-Determination Program (SRS) through FY 2026 and providing lapsed payments to counties in Oregon and nationwide for FY 2024 and 2025.

“The Secure Rural Schools program has been a lifeline for rural communities across Oregon and nationwide since I originally authored the program back in 2000. I’m grateful we were able to get our legislation over the finish line to restore funding for communities that need it the most,” Wyden said. “This lapse in funding is exactly why we need a permanent solution to get rural communities off the financial rollercoaster and ensure they have the support they need to not just survive, but thrive.”

“With our bipartisan bill now law, the federal government has finally taken action to restore funding that is crucial to keeping schools open, maintaining roads, restoring watersheds, and ensuring there are police officers and firefighters to keep rural communities safe,” Merkley said. “Extending the SRS program ensures Oregon communities and local governments can maintain access to these important lifelines and resources.”

SRS expired in FY 2023, and the last payment from the program went out in calendar year 2024. As a result of the expiration, counties have reverted back to the 1908 and 1937 revenue sharing laws. This has meant counties have only received 25% from the Forest Service and 50% from the Bureau of Land Management of all revenue generated on federal lands in those counties since 2024, resulting in diminished funding for critical resources like law enforcement, schools, roads, and more.

The reauthorization means an estimated $75 million for the 33 Oregon counties that receive SRS payments.

SRS was authored by Wyden and enacted in 2000 to financially assist counties with public, tax-exempt forestlands. The U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management administer the funds. The totals are based on a formula including economic activity, timber harvest levels and other considerations that vary from county to county. SRS payments are critical to maintain education programs for many rural counties that contain federal lands exempt from property taxes. Earlier in December, Wyden and Merkley led a bipartisan coalition of 85 lawmakers urging House leadership to reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) and Self Determination Act.

""We are grateful to the Oregon federal delegation for their unremitting support of this program — a lifeline for our counties and schools,"" said Gina Nikkel, Executive Director of the Association of Oregon Counties. ""Rural counties rely on SRS payments to provide numerous critical services for their communities, such as rural county roads, education, conservation projects, search and rescue missions, and wildfire prevention programs. We look forward to continuing to work with our federal partners for a permanent funding source for rural counties.""

In addition to Senators Wyden and Merkley, the legislation was also led by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, and Jim Risch, R-Idaho.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-warren-press-trump-administration-over-compass-anywhere-real-estate-merger-sound-alarm-on-impact-to-housing-costs,"Wyden, Warren Press Trump Administration Over Compass-Anywhere Real Estate Merger, Sound Alarm on Impact to Housing Costs",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"As Americans face a housing affordability crisis, key Democratic Senators warn that merger could increase housing costs

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., today sent a series of letters to the Trump administration, pressing the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to closely scrutinize the proposed $1.6 billion merger between real estate brokerage giants Compass, Inc. (“Compass”) and Anywhere Real Estate, Inc. (“Anywhere”), over concerns the merger could drive up housing costs.

""The Compass-Anywhere merger threatens to stifle consumer choice and fair industry competition while entrenching existing antitrust and price manipulation concerns that have been at the center of mounting litigation. These risks demand close scrutiny under federal antitrust laws,” the lawmakers wrote to Department of Justice Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater and Federal Trade Commission Chairman Andrew Ferguson.

The senators also highlighted housing discrimination concerns. Compass has driven an industry shift towards private listing practices, also known as pocket listings, that are not made available to every agent or consumer. Experts find that pocket listings may perpetuate housing discrimination prohibited under the federal Civil Rights Act of 1866 and the Fair Housing Act of 1968, and make potential discrimination harder to detect. These practices also hurt homeowners by limiting the pool of potential buyers and diminishing their earnings on home equity.

“Allowing Compass and Anywhere to merge is likely to significantly expand the use of these private exclusives, posing both antitrust and civil rights concerns,” the lawmakers continued. “[I]t is clear that a Compass-Anywhere merger, which comes on the coattails of the Rocket-Redfin merger announcement, will only perpetuate the industry’s race to the bottom and further consolidate market control that weakens consumers’ fair and open access to real estate listings.”

Additionally, the merger could weaken smaller firms and new entrants’ ability to compete on equal footing, placing pressure on mom-and-pop agents and independent brokerages that play a vital role in serving local communities and offering lower-cost, consumer-friendly alternatives.

“The Compass-Anywhere merger threatens to stifle consumer choice and fair industry competition while entrenching existing antitrust and price manipulation concerns that have been at the center of mounting litigation,” the senators concluded. “These risks demand close scrutiny under federal antitrust laws.”

Wyden has been a champion for driving down housing costs and ending housing discrimination. In 2023, Wyden introduced the Algorithmic Accountability Act to create new protections for people affected by AI systems that are already impacting decisions affecting housing, credit, education and other high-impact uses. In February, Wyden introduced the Preventing Algorithmic Collusion Act which would prevent companies from using algorithms to collude to set higher prices. In November, Wyden reintroduced the End Rent Fixing Act of 2025 to crack down on companies that would help landlords increase rents in already high-priced markets.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/alsobrooks-cramer-merkley-curtis-introduce-legislation-to-reauthorize-wildlife-crossings-program/,"ALSOBROOKS, CRAMER, MERKLEY, CURTIS INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO REAUTHORIZE WILDLIFE CROSSINGS PROGRAM",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"“The Wildlife Crossings Program at the Federal Highway Administration provides a unique opportunity to protect both our wildlife and our drivers – it is a true win-win. I am proud of the ongoing work in Maryland to develop a comprehensive plan to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions across our state and look forward to supporting Maryland’s efforts by reauthorizing this important program. I want to thank Senators Cramer, Merkley, and Curtis for their partnership on this legislation,” said Senator Alsobrooks.

“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law created the Wildlife Crossings Program to better protect people and animals from the dangers of vehicle collisions, especially in rural states like North Dakota where the two frequently cross paths,” said Senator Cramer. “Our bill reauthorizes and expands the program to support infrastructure projects directly aimed at improving roadway safety. I’m grateful to Senator Alsobrooks for her leadership of this bipartisan effort, which will benefit critters and communities across the nation.”

“Wildlife crossings safeguard wildlife and protect drivers from dangerous collisions and costly damages to their vehicles,” said Senator Merkley. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Congress made a once-in-a-generation investment in these crossings, supercharging projects such as the I-5 wildlife crossing in Southern Oregon. Federal investments like this ensure we can continue to build on this progress for years to come.”

“In Utah, we’ve long understood that protecting our natural heritage and keeping people safe go hand in hand,” said Senator Curtis. “The Wildlife Crossings Program is a smart, science-backed solution that reflects those values, and I’m proud to join my colleagues in the effort to reauthorize this important program.”

“The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) is excited to see Senators Alsobrooks, Cramer, Curtis, and Merkley introduce the bipartisan Wildlife Crossings Program Reauthorization Act. There are an estimated 1 to 2 million wildlife vehicle collisions annually, which are not only a threat to wildlife but are also a threat to human safety,” said CSF Senior Vice President Taylor Schmitz. “Given the widespread success and overwhelming demand for the Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program first established in 2021, it is critical to reauthorize this effort to sustain wildlife populations and increase human safety on our nation’s roads. We look forward to working closely with Senators Alsobrooks, Cramer, Curtis, and Merkley to see this effort become law.”

“National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) supports this solutions-focused policy that would benefit public safety and national park wildlife alike,” said National Parks Conservation Association Legislative Director Christina Hazard. “From elk herds at Theodore Roosevelt to black bears in Catoctin Mountain, our national parks provide habitat for an incredible range of wildlife, which also supports strong tourism and outdoor recreation economies. In a time where common ground is hard to come by, polling results found that 87% of Americans support restoring or preserving wildlife habitat connectivity and improving migration corridors on lands and waters within and beyond park borders. NPCA urges Congress to support and advance this incredible investment in America’s national parks.”

“Wildlife crossings on America’s highways increase motorist safety, ensure habitat connectivity, and save countless dollars by preventing vehicle-wildlife collisions,” said Joel Pedersen, President and CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “TRCP thanks Senator Alsobrooks, Senator Cramer, Senator Merkley and Senator Curtis for their foresight and leadership to introduce legislation that would increase public safety while supporting the wildlife populations that American sportsmen and women depend upon.”

“Reauthorizing the Wildlife Crossings Program is a priority for state fish and wildlife agencies to enhance the movement of wildlife and ensure safer roads,” said Paul Johansen, Chief of the Wildlife Resources Section of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and President of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. “Every year, more than 1 million wildlife-vehicle collisions are reported across the United States, resulting in human and wildlife fatalities and costing billions of dollars in damages. We know there are proven solutions – such as culverts, bridges and tunnels that allow animals to migrate safely – to reduce these incidents and save lives. We applaud Senators Alsobrooks, Cramer, Merkley, and Curtis for the bipartisan introduction of this important bill.”

“The wildlife crossings program created by Congress in 2021 has proven to be one of the most effective, popular, and bipartisan actions Congress has taken on wildlife in recent decades. It has delivered real results on the ground by saving lives, creating jobs, improving outdoor recreation, and maintaining magnificent wildlife migrations. We are glad so many Senators from both parties are working hard to reauthorize the wildlife crossings program and find more ways for Tribes and other communities to participate,” said Mike Leahy, senior director for wildlife, hunting, and fishing policy for the National Wildlife Federation. “Thank you to the bill’s sponsors for their work to reauthorize and increase funding for the national wildlife crossings program.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/cantwell-and-merkley-lead-senate-democrats-in-demanding-answers-on-nists-unauthorized-dismantling-of-the-manufacturing-extension-partnership-program/,Cantwell and Merkley Lead Senate Democrats in Demanding Answers on NIST’s Unauthorized Dismantling of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Senators call on NIST to reverse course and fund MEP Centers nationwide, which provide critical services to over 600,000 American manufacturers

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, and U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on the Budget, led 27 of their Senate Democratic colleagues in a letter demanding Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology Craig Burkhardt provide clear answers to why the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has been withholding and delaying congressionally-approved funds to the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Program’s Centers and why the Administration has repeatedly insisted MEP is inconsistent with their priorities. The MEP Program is a national network of go-to experts that help small and medium-sized manufacturers enhance productivity and adopt advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence.

“On April 1, 2025, the Administration began withholding and delaying funds Congress already enacted and appropriated for MEP Centers,” the Senators wrote in a letter to Burkhardt. “Since then, NIST and the Administration have put the future of the MEP Program in deep uncertainty with its ever-shifting chronology of statements and actions. This uncertainty has already caused roughly 90% of MEP Centers to conduct layoffs or freeze hiring, with some at risk of entirely shutting down. Our offices are also deeply troubled by reports that the Administration has issued Reduction in Force (RIF) and possible separation notices to every MEP employee. These actions disregard Congress’s explicit statutory direction to fully fund the MEP Program and its Centers in all 50 states and Puerto Rico.”

These actions come despite longstanding broad, bipartisan support from Congress, and the fact that both the House and Senate Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations bills provide $175 million for MEP.

The Administration has also claimed that the goal of the MEP – to support American manufacturers – was not aligned with the Administration’s priorities. President Trump has promised an “American manufacturing boom,” but the latest jobs report indicates 67,000 manufacturing jobs have been lost since April 2025.

“It is perplexing why the Administration appears to believe a program specifically designed to strengthen domestic manufacturing would be at odds with its priorities,” concluded the Senators. “We should not be undermining or eliminating a long-standing program that strengthens innovation, enhances global competitiveness, and creates jobs in U.S. manufacturing.”

Sens. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) joined Sens. Cantwell and Merkley in sending the letter.

The full letter to Acting Under Secretary Burkhardt is below and HERE.

December 18, 2025

Craig Burkhardt

Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology

National Institute of Standards and Technology

Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899

Dear Acting Under Secretary Burkhardt,

We write to seek clarity and information on what appears to be the unauthorized dismantling of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Program. If the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) continues its current trajectory of refusing to provide MEP Centers their congressionally mandated funding, 65,000 American manufacturers will lose critical services and resources after December 31, 2025. This is an unacceptable and completely avoidable outcome, and we call on you to rectify this immediately.

On April 1, 2025, the Administration began withholding and delaying funds Congress already enacted and appropriated for MEP Centers. Since then, NIST and the Administration have put the future of the MEP Program in deep uncertainty with its ever-shifting chronology of statements and actions. This uncertainty has already caused roughly 90% of MEP Centers to conduct layoffs or freeze hiring, with some at risk of entirely shutting down. Our offices are also deeply troubled by reports that the Administration has issued Reduction in Force (RIF) and possible separation notices to every MEP employee. These actions disregard Congress’s explicit statutory direction to fully fund the MEP Program and its Centers in all 50 states and Puerto Rico.

The MEP Program under the Department of Commerce (DOC) and NIST has long enjoyed broad bipartisan, bicameral support for its success as a national network of go-to experts that help small and medium-sized manufacturers enhance productivity and adopt advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence. Congress first authorized MEP in the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act and of 1988 and reauthorized the program in the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022. Recent legislation demonstrates Congress’s ongoing support for MEP Centers, as both the House and Senate Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations bills provide $175 million for MEP. The House report specifically supports “continuation of current State awards that bolster the local manufacturing economy.” Additionally, the Senate report clearly directs that “no funds are provided to execute or plan for a program that reduces the number of active MEP Centers” and that “any revamp, including the one outlined in the June 2025 renewal documents, should not proceed without consultation and approval from the Committee.”

Without consulting with Congress, NIST sent brief letters to ten MEP Centers on April 1, 2025, informing them that their funding would not be renewed. The only justification the Administration provided these Centers was the conclusory assertion that “funding of MEP centers is no longer in alignment with advancing the priorities of NIST.” The letter stated that NIST was instead “reprioritizing its funding and staff” to support efforts in “critical and emerging technologies – such as artificial intelligence, quantum information science.” On April 8, 2025, Senator Cantwell and a number of our Senate Democratic colleagues sent a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick urging him to protect the MEP program and the small and medium-sized manufacturers who rely on it. The letter highlighted how NIST found that eliminating federal support would undermine decades of domestic manufacturing resilience.

On April 15, 2025, the Administration claimed to reverse course when Congressional offices were notified that NIST had “determined to renew the funding for these 10 Centers through the end of the fiscal year” after “further review and consideration.” This claim was reiterated on May 8, 2025, in a letter to an MEP manufacturing client stating NIST would “renew the funding” for the impacted MEP Centers, emphasizing that “Bringing manufacturing back to this country is one of this Administration’s highest priorities.” However, it appears the Administration soon reversed course yet again—back to the original one—with Secretary Lutnick signaling his intent to discontinue the MEP program during a June 4, 2025 Senate Appropriations Committee hearing. While testifying, Secretary Lutnick claimed the MEP program was “outdated” and said the “new technology is AI driven, automated.” When asked about how to best support manufacturers with accessing technology, he suggested “reexamine[ing] and retool[ing]” programs instead of “continuing a program that’s decades and decades old.”

Three weeks after Secretary Lutnick’s testimony, NIST notified 11 MEP Centers with a July 1, 2025 start date that their funding would come with new, mandatory conditions, which included sunsetting their program the following fiscal year because “NIST does not expect to receive additional appropriated funding for MEP beyond what is currently available.” The Centers were told they could spend only one-twelfth (one month) of their award until they revised and signed agreements that included the Administration’s new demands. Although multiple Centers did attempt to submit these agreements, NIST has yet to approve any of them, which has left these Centers without federal funding for several months. NIST also failed to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for a subsequent tranche of Centers until December 4, 2025, which has put the Centers more than six months behind schedule and guarantees a gap in their federal funding after their planned January 1, 2026 start date.

Compounding matters, on October 10, 2025, during the federal government shutdown, you sent messages to MEP employees eliminating their positions due to a supposed lack of funding. You wrote the MEP program “is not consistent with the Secretary’s priorities” and that employees would “no longer be in [their] current position.” Furthermore, you informed employees it was possible they would be “separat[ed] from Federal Service” going forward, and you asked them to “submit an updated resume” to determine if they would soon be fired.

Most recently, on November 25, 2025, the Administration informed five states with a January 1, 2026, start date that NIST would “provide your NIST MEP Center with one year of eligible renewal funding” while NIST and the Department “evaluates plans for the MEP program overall.” While this would be a positive development for those states if and when they receive their overdue funding, you also told the remaining eight states with a January 1 start date “there’s no clarity from the Secretary for what they want to do” with their MEP Centers. All the other states with MEP Centers apparently share this lack of clarity or concrete information about their future. Earlier this month, the Department’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) released a report that specifically highlighted the initial announcement in April to end funding and concluded: “Although funding was later restored through the end of FY25, uncertainty about the program’s future still exists.” This ongoing uncertainty about MEP’s future is entirely unnecessary, and could be swiftly addressed if the Administration chose to do so.

It is perplexing why the Administration appears to believe a program specifically designed to strengthen domestic manufacturing would be at odds with its priorities. MEP serves over 600,000 small or medium manufacturers, representing 98% of all U.S. manufacturing firms. Although President Trump has promised a “manufacturing boom,” the United States lost 12,000 manufacturing jobs in August 2025 alone, which nonpartisan analysts have attributed to the Administration’s policies. We should not be undermining or eliminating a long-standing program that strengthens innovation, enhances global competitiveness, and creates jobs in U.S. manufacturing.

To provide clarity and certainty about the Administration’s intentions for the MEP program, please provide the following information no later than January 5, 2026.

A list of all MEP Centers with current funding expiration dates and renewal status.

The amount and timing of federal disbursements to each MEP Center for FY 2025 and FY 2026.

The Department’s justification for any planned RIF or staff separation notices within the MEP network.

The current organizational structure of the MEP Program, including reporting lines and responsible officials.

A timeline for release of the NOFO for the January 2026 and March 2026 renewal cohorts.

Additionally, please provide a briefing to our staff on the status of the MEP Program and the Department’s plans for program continuity no later than January 5, 2026.

We appreciate your prompt attention to this matter and look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-baldwin-booker-41-senators-no-new-anti-lgbtq-anti-abortion-provisions-in-must-pass-government-funding-bills/,"Merkley, Baldwin, Booker, 41 Senators: No New Anti-LGBTQ+, Anti-Abortion Provisions in Must-Pass Government Funding Bills",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"“Partisan, discriminatory, and harmful policy riders have no place in must-pass legislation such as appropriations bills”

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, Wisconsin’s U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, and New Jersey’s U.S. Senator Cory Booker led a group of over 40 Senators to urge Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) and Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) to keep any new dangerous, hyper-partisan policy provisions that would curtail the freedoms of women and LGBTQ+ individuals out of must-pass government funding legislation.

House Republicans have inserted more than 65 so-called ‘poison pill’ provisions targeting abortion and LGBTQ+ rights, which would otherwise fail the scrutiny of congressional debate, into critical government funding bills that require broad, bipartisan consensus to pass. Over the last two years, Merkley, Baldwin, and Booker have continuously and successfully led the Senate Democratic Caucus to keep any new anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-abortion policy provisions from being included in must-pass government funding legislation.

Merkley, Baldwin, Booker, and 41 Senators write, “Dangerous poison pill provisions like those included in the FY26 House appropriations bills will severely undermine Congress’ ability to push forward must-pass legislation and keep the government open and working for the American people. As such, we urge you to reject these extremist riders from the remaining final FY26 appropriations bills.”

In addition to Merkley, Baldwin, and Booker, the letter was also signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), 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), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

The Senators’ letter is endorsed by the ACLU, Advocates for Trans Equality, Guttmacher Institute, Human Rights Campaign, National Council of Jewish Women, National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, National Network of Abortion Funds, National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Power to Decide, and Reproductive Freedom for All.

Full text of the letter can be found by clicking here and follows below:

Dear Chair Collins and Vice Chair Murray:

We write to urge you to keep the FY26 appropriations bills free of any new poison pill policy riders. Partisan, discriminatory, and harmful policy riders have no place in must-pass legislation such as appropriations bills. In the recent past, the Senate has had success passing bipartisan bills in committee because these bills did not contain new poison pill riders. Unfortunately, in FY26, the House has included more than 65 new anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+ riders in its appropriations bills, which we urge you to reject from any remaining final FY26 appropriations bills.

In the more than three years since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, our country has experienced a reproductive health care crisis. As of December 1, 2025, 13 states have banned abortion entirely, and 7 states have banned abortion anywhere from 6 to 18 weeks. Republicans have also attempted to ban medication abortion, which accounts for nearly two-thirds of all abortions in the United States. These bans leave 1 in 3 women, as well as transgender and nonbinary people, without access to abortion and disproportionately impact people of color, people with disabilities, young people, people living in rural areas, and people with low incomes.

Despite the dangerous consequences of the bans and the overwhelming support for access to abortion, House Republicans have continued to propose extremist anti-abortion policy riders in their appropriations bills. These new riders include a measure to defund Planned Parenthood, a provision to codify the Trump administration’s global gag rule, a provision that would interfere with essential postgraduate medical training in abortion care, and a provision that would restrict access to abortion and fertility care for servicemembers, veterans, and their families. If adopted, these provisions would dramatically undermine people’s ability to make decisions about their bodies, lives, and futures and providers’ ability to deliver necessary reproductive health care.

House Republicans have also used the FY26 appropriations process to push extremist and unpopular anti- LGBTQ+ measures, which threaten the lives and fundamental dignity of LGBTQ+ communities. Anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is being introduced across the country; in 2025 alone, more than 600 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced across 49 state legislatures.

Against this backdrop, House Republicans have introduced more than 50 anti-LGBTQ+ provisions across all 12 appropriations bills. This includes provisions in almost every appropriations bill that would allow people and organizations, including those that receive taxpayer funds, to discriminate against LGBTQ+ people. More than half of the House’s appropriations bills also contain dangerous riders that severely restrict access to gender- affirming care, which would deprive transgender people of critical, medically necessary, evidence-based, and often life-saving health care. Among those who would be impacted by these riders are the more than 134,000 transgender veterans who rely on the Veterans’ Affairs Administration for their health care.

Dangerous poison pill provisions like those included in the FY26 House appropriations bills will severely undermine Congress’ ability to push forward must-pass legislation and keep the government open and working for the American people. As such, we urge you to reject these extremist riders from the remaining final FY26 appropriations bills.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-leads-senate-resolution-denouncing-horrors-of-authoritarianism/,Merkley Leads Senate Resolution Denouncing ‘Horrors of Authoritarianism’,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley introduced a new resolution condemning authoritarianism in all its forms and opposing the implementation of authoritarian policies in the United States of America.

The resolution continues Merkley’s work to sound the alarm bells over what he has called the “authoritarian slide” both here in the U.S. and around the world. His effort highlights how authoritarian governments—including Russia and Venezuela—have consolidated executive power at the expense of individual freedom. Merkley’s resolution emphasizes that “most modern democracies do not die at the hands of armed militias, but instead at the hands of elected officials who erode the separation of powers to tighten their authoritarian grip.”

“The authoritarian takeover of the United States of America is not around the corner—it is here right now,” said Merkley. “We have all three ingredients for a strongman state: a rubber-stamp Congress doing the President’s bidding, a deferential Supreme Court delivering more and more power to the Executive Branch, and a power-hungry President behaving like a king. Authoritarians are not new—they’ve been following this playbook to weaken democracies around the world, and now, Donald Trump is using this playbook here to dismantle our democratic institutions right before our eyes. We will keep ringing the alarm bells.”

Merkley’s resolution follows his speech on the floor of the U.S. Senate earlier this year to speak directly to the American people and ring the alarm bells about the Trump Administration’s authoritarian takeover of the country. He spoke for 22 hours 37 minutes—the third longest speech in Senate history.

Merkley’s resolution is also cosponsored by U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR).

Full text of the resolution can be found by clicking here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-now-is-the-time-for-bipartisan-action-on-commonsense-cannabis-reforms/,Merkley: Now is the Time for Bipartisan Action on Commonsense Cannabis Reforms,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley—the lead sponsor of the bipartisan SAFER Banking Act—issued the following statement in response to President Trump announcing that he has signed an Executive Order directing the U.S. Department of Justice to complete the process of moving cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, a change that would open the door to medical research and treatment:

“Cannabis rescheduling is a step in the right direction, allowing medical research and legal cannabis businesses to be appropriately taxed on their net profits. But this change from Schedule I to Schedule III still leaves these cannabis businesses in violation of criminal law because the production and use of cannabis for non-medical purposes remain a federal crime. As such, these legal businesses are still prevented from accessing the banking system.

“That remains a huge problem, encouraging all sorts of criminal activities, including robberies of cannabis businesses operating in all cash, false accounting, money laundering, and organized crime. That’s why we still need to pass the bipartisan SAFER Banking Act, which during his campaign, President Trump urged Congress to send to his desk.

“I will continue to push for fully descheduled cannabis—which is essential to addressing the harms perpetuated by the War on Drugs and the criminalization of cannabis on communities of color—and work with both Republicans and Democrats to advance common-sense cannabis reforms for banking services and medical treatment.”

Merkley has been a fierce and longtime leader advocating for sensible cannabis reform and cannabis business laws. He is the lead sponsor of the SAFER Banking Act, which would ensure that state-legal cannabis businesses would have access to critical banking and financial services.

As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, he has also led the fight for over a decade for veterans to be able to discuss medical cannabis programs with their doctors at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in states with medical cannabis programs. With Trump’s executive action and language that Merkley secured in the FY26 MilConVA funding bill, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is encouraged to develop and issue guidance for VHA doctors and other personnel to discuss, recommend, and facilitate access to medical cannabis in states with such programs.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-blast-trump-fcc-for-weakening-consumer-broadband-protections-raising-costs,"Wyden, Colleagues Blast Trump FCC for Weakening Consumer Broadband Protections, Raising Costs",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"A new FCC rule gives internet providers the green light to charge hidden fees

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today urged the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to reverse its decision to weaken broadband pricing labeling rules that inform consumers about the types of internet services they are buying before committing to a provider.

“The broadband label framework was designed to work like nutrition labels, giving consumers a clear, consistent way to understand what services they are buying before they commit,” the senators wrote to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr. “The entire purpose of the broadband label is to show consumers the real, total cost of service so that they can make informed choices. Allowing providers to bundle these fees into vague line items recreates exactly the kind of billing opaqueness that Congress sought to end. Families need to see what they are being charged and why.”

These broadband consumer label requirements were unanimously adopted in 2022. Congress gave the FCC explicit instructions in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to create these labels showing speeds, costs, and data allowances of internet plans.

This FCC proposal reduces broadband consumer transparency by allowing internet service providers to remove the price listed of active plans in customer accounts, cut off phone support on pricing, and limit labels in various languages.

Wyden has been a longtime advocate in making broadband accessible and affordable. In October 2025, Wyden signed onto a similar letter on the FCC’s vote to advance these changes that would weaken consumer broadband protections. As a result of Wyden’s advocacy to correct inaccuracies in the National Broadband Map, the Department of Commerce under the Biden administration in 2023 announced $689 million to expand access to broadband internet to Oregon’s rural and underserved communities. In August 2025, Wyden and Senator Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., announced more than $2.2 million for rural broadband technical assistance across Oregon.

The letter was led by Senators Adam Schiff, D-Calif., and Senator Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M. In addition to Wyden, the letter was signed by Senators Brian Schatz, D- Hawai’i, Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., and Mark Warner, D-Va.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-increase-transparency-of-supreme-court-shadow-docket-decisions,"Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Increase Transparency of Supreme Court Shadow Docket Decisions",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,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 has joined Senate colleagues to introduce legislation to increase transparency of decisions on the Supreme Court’s emergency docket, also known as the “shadow docket,”a backdoor way for the Supreme Court to hand down consequential rulings with limited public argument or transparency.

“Trump’s hand-picked Supreme Court is increasingly relying on the shadow docket to legislate from the bench to push a far-right agenda,” Wyden said. “As the Trump administration has pushed the boundaries of institutions and trampled on due process, the court has relied on these covert rulings to hand down some of its most consequential decisions with real world impacts, leaving the American people entirely in the dark about how the rulings came to be. This legislation would help restore much-needed transparency and accountability to the most powerful court in our nation.”

The Shadow Docket Sunlight Act requires the Supreme Court to provide a written explanation for shadow docket decisions and a vote count detailing how each Justice voted on the decision, promoting public understanding and consistency in judicial decision making.

The Supreme Court has increasingly relied on the shadow docket—making decisions on short notice without oral argument or any legal explanation of the Court’s reasoning. The Court has utilized the shadow docket to make decisions on a number of wide-ranging, highly consequential cases, including the September 8, 2025 decision in Noem v. Vasquez Perdomo. The decision allows ICE agents to stop and arrest individuals based on their appearance, the language they speak, where they live, and what they do for work.

The bill was led by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., and U.S. Representative Deborah Ross, D-N.C. In addition to Wyden, the bill was also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker, D-N.J., Dick Durbin, D-Ill., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Jack Reed, D-R.I., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Adam Schiff, D-Calif., Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., Tina Smith, D-Minn., Peter Welch, D-Vt., and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-statement-on-cannabis-rescheduling,Wyden Statement on Cannabis Rescheduling,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,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., today issued the following statement on Donald Trump’s executive order to reschedule cannabis from a schedule I drug to a schedule III:

“This is just a half step that doesn't include legalization, doesn't put the nascent industry on stronger footing, and doesn't do anything for the many Black and Latino Americans who are behind bars for the kind of cannabis use that millions of Americans engage in freely every day,” Wyden said. “I'll continue pushing to pass my Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act into law, which would legalize cannabis at the federal level and right the wrongs of the failed War on Drugs.”

Wyden’s Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act would end the federal prohibition of cannabis while implementing strong consumer protections. The legislation was co-authored by Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., and Cory Booker, D-N.J.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-closure-of-ashland-community-hospitals-birthing-center-and-inpatient-care-will-negatively-impact-southwestern-oregonians/,Merkley: Closure of Ashland Community Hospital’s Birthing Center and Inpatient Care Will Negatively Impact Southwestern Oregonians,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley said today he is concerned about the planned closure of labor and delivery services and inpatient care at Ashland Community Hospital and called on Asante Health System to support families and clinicians affected by the decision.

Earlier this month, Asante announced it was planning to close the hospital’s birthing center and convert it into a satellite campus of Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford, as well as ending inpatient care.

“I anticipate that this decision will hurt the health and safety of individuals seeking inpatient care, as well as expectant mothers and newborns, who will no longer have local access to care,” Merkley cautioned in his letter to Asante President & CEO Tom Gessel.

While Merkley deeply understands the numerous economic challenges facing rural labor and delivery units across Oregon—including low volumes of births, workforce shortages, challenging reimbursement rates, and the changing health care landscape brought on by the passage of Republicans’ ‘Big, Ugly’ betrayal of a budget bill—he has also seen the negative impacts of closing labor and delivery units and the shuttering of inpatient care have on Oregon families. During this transition time, he is calling for Asante to support the families, clinicians, and communities it serves.

“Ashland Community Hospital has served Southwest Oregon for almost 120 years, and the closure of its birthing center and inpatient hospital could force patients to travel long distances to receive routine and emergency obstetric care as well as treatment for severe conditions and major surgeries. In addition, this closure would likely create an undue burden for many families, especially those with limited funds, limited transportation, or complex medical needs, and it may cause them to bypass necessary care,” he continued.

Previously, Merkley led his Oregon congressional delegation colleagues to oppose the closure of labor and delivery services by Providence Health & Services and Samaritan Health Services at hospitals along the Oregon coast.

“I expect these challenges will only get worse given the Republican reconciliation bill that gutted the health care system by $1 trillion, thereby making it harder for rural and community hospitals to survive. As a result of these cuts, rural and community hospitals will be forced into impossible choices and unpopular operational decisions, like cutting labor and delivery services and inpatient care, in order to keep their doors open,” he concluded.

Full text of the letter can be found by clicking here and below:

Dear Mr. Gessel:

I write today to express concerns regarding Asante’s plan to close the birthing center and stop inpatient care at Ashland Community Hospital by May 2026. I anticipate that this decision will hurt the health and safety of individuals seeking inpatient care, as well as expectant mothers and newborns, who will no longer have local access to care.

Ashland Community Hospital has served Southwest Oregon for almost 120 years, and the closure of its birthing center and inpatient hospital could force patients to travel long distances to receive routine and emergency obstetric care as well as treatment for severe conditions and major surgeries. In addition, this closure would likely create an undue burden for many families, especially those with limited funds, limited transportation, or complex medical needs, and it may cause them to bypass necessary care.

I am aware of the economic challenges that are squeezing the finances of labor and delivery units across Oregon. Low birth volumes and challenging reimbursement rates driven by inflation, workforce shortages, and rising supply costs make it difficult for hospitals to continue offering birthing services. In addition, I recognize the financial difficulties surrounding inpatient care, including a decrease in Medicare inpatient payment rates and delays in discharging patients to post-acute facilities, which are driven by prior authorization requirements and can contribute to longer and more expensive inpatient stays.

I expect these challenges will only get worse given the Republican reconciliation bill that gutted the health care system by $1 trillion, thereby making it harder for rural and community hospitals to survive. As a result of these cuts, rural and community hospitals will be forced into impossible choices and unpopular operational decisions, like cutting labor and delivery services and inpatient care, in order to keep their doors open.

However, I have also seen the negative impacts of hospitals closing their birthing centers and shuttering inpatient care on Oregon patients, particularly in rural communities. Minutes matter for parents and newborns, and health care providers across Oregon have reported seeing more patients than ever before who are sicker and more complex. These cuts will harm caregivers and the health and safety of communities in Southwestern Oregon, leaving patients and families with fewer choices, longer waits, and worse healthcare.

As Asante closes down the birthing center and stops providing inpatient care at Ashland Community Hospital, I urge you to assist expectant families who need to find alternative options for safe maternal health care and patients who are seeking inpatient care. In addition, I urge you to continue to provide meaningful support to the physicians, nurses, and other clinicians whose jobs will be affected by the halt in obstetrics care and inpatient surgery at Ashland Community Hospital. Finally, I urge Asante to engage in a transparent process with the community it serves as it winds down local obstetrics care and inpatient surgery.

Thank you for your attention to this letter and for your commitment to serving the health care needs of Oregon families.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-puts-support-behind-expanding-workplace-rights-for-domestic-workers/,Merkley Puts Support Behind Expanding Workplace Rights for Domestic Workers,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Bill by Sens. Gillibrand, Luján Would Guarantee Domestic Workers Basic Rights Such as Overtime Pay, Time Off, Sick Leave, Meal and Rest Breaks, and Legal Protections from Harassment and Unsafe Working Conditions

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley announced his continued support for the reintroduced Domestic Workers Bill of Rights Act, commonsense legislation that would extend common workplace rights to the 2.2 million domestic workers in the United States.

Under current law, domestic workers—including home health aides, nannies, cleaners, and live-in caretakers—are excluded from many of the labor, harassment, and discrimination protections guaranteed to other workers under federal law. As a result, severe financial insecurity and lack of workplace benefits are all too common in these professions. The Domestic Workers Bill of Rights Act—led by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07)—would patch these gaps in existing labor law and also create new protections for domestic workers.

“Receiving respect and dignity at work shouldn’t depend on where you work,” said Merkley. “And the millions of domestic workers who provide care and life-saving support in our homes should be entitled to strong protections from harassment and discrimination. There is dignity in all work, and I stand with Oregon’s domestic workers.”

“Caretakers, cleaners, nannies, and other domestic workers play a vital role in the economy and in American life. However, they’ve too often been overlooked in the fight for workers’ rights, leaving many working long hours, earning low wages, and struggling to make ends meet. This is unacceptable,” said Senator Gillibrand. “By closing loopholes that exclude domestic workers from federal labor and civil rights laws, the Domestic Workers Bill of Rights Act would afford these workers the safety, stability, and dignity that they deserve. I am honored to introduce this bill, and I will fight tooth and nail to get it passed.”

“Domestic workers in New Mexico and across the country are essential members of our workforce and deserve dignity and respect. I’m proud to reintroduce legislation to require employers to establish clear standards for wages, responsibilities, schedules, and time-off policies to help protect the rights of the people who care for our families and support our communities,” said Senator Luján. “This legislation is critical to ensuring workplace protections and rights for domestic workers who have been left out for far too long.”

“Domestic workers are too often called essential, but treated as expendable. These workers, who are predominantly women of color and immigrants, make all other work possible,” said Representative Jayapal. “This landmark legislation ensures that domestic workers are finally included in our existing labor laws, giving them access to the basic protections they deserve in the workplace, including overtime pay, guaranteed rest and meal breaks, time off, and legal protections from unsafe working conditions and harassment. It will finally give our domestic workers the dignity and respect they deserve. This legislation is more important now than ever as the Trump Administration works to strip many of the programs domestic workers rely on to survive, like Medicaid and food assistance.”

Domestic workers have historically been excluded from worker protections and, as a result, often have no benefits, few protections, and little recourse to fight harassment and unsafe working conditions. A 2021 National Domestic Workers Alliance survey of domestic workers reported that:

Only 16% of domestic workers have a written agreement with their employer laying out their job responsibilities and the terms of their employment.

Over one-third of domestic workers do not get meal and rest breaks, and of those who do, only 34% are paid for those breaks.

81% of domestic workers receive no pay if their employer cancels on them with less than three days’ notice, and 76% receive no pay if their employer cancels on them after they show up for work.

23% of domestic workers do not feel safe at work.

If passed, the Domestic Workers Bill of Rights Act would, among other things:

Entitle domestic workers to overtime pay for hours worked above 40 hours per week.

Ensure domestic workers have paid sick leave to take care of themselves or their families.

Extend civil rights protections, including against workplace harassment and discrimination, to domestic workers.

Afford domestic workers the right to meal and rest breaks.

Require employers to provide domestic workers with written agreements detailing agreed-upon hourly pay rates, scheduling requirements, and termination procedures.

It is endorsed by the National Domestic Workers Alliance, as well as 44 other organizations.

“Domestic workers across the country do the work that makes all other work possible by caring for our children, keeping our households running, and ensuring our loved ones can live with dignity and independence,” said Ai-Jen Poo, President of the National Domestic Workers Alliance. “Yet, for over 400 years, this workforce, made up of predominantly women of color, has been largely excluded from basic labor protections. Today, they are facing an unprecedented crisis fueled by nearly one trillion dollars in Medicaid cuts, low wages, and widespread immigration raids that are creating a climate of fear. The Domestic Workers Bill of Rights will work to address these historical injustices, protect the dignity and financial security of these workers, and strengthen our care economy.”

The full text of the legislation can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/wyden-merkley-colleagues-demand-answers-from-ice-on-racial-profiling-of-tribal-members-refusal-to-accept-tribal-ids/,"Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Demand Answers from ICE on Racial Profiling of Tribal Members, Refusal to Accept Tribal IDs",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today joined Senate colleagues to demand answers regarding the outrageous mistreatment of Tribal citizens by ICE in a number of recent incidents.

In their letter, the lawmakers called out reports of ICE improperly stopping or detaining Tribal citizens for no apparent reason aside from their physical appearance, and urged Department of Homeland Secretary Kristi Noem to develop policy and trainings to ensure all ICE agents are trained to recognize Tribal IDs, regardless of whether they are working on Tribal lands.

“We write to share our alarm over the completely unacceptable treatment of U.S.-born citizens of federally recognized Tribes, who have been stopped and questioned by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on suspicion of being undocumented,” the senators wrote to Noem. “In February, several Senators wrote to you following reports of ICE agents improperly stopping or detaining Tribal citizens. In June, you replied with a letter in which you failed to respond to the majority of the questions raised in the letter.”

“Over the past month, we have heard additional alarming reports of ICE improperly stopping or detaining Tribal citizens for no apparent reason aside from their physical appearance,” the senators wrote. “The disrespect and harassment of U.S.-born Tribal citizens by ICE is outrageous and inexcusable, and we request that you take immediate steps to put an end to it.”

In November, Elaine Miles, an Indigenous actor, was approached by four men who identified themselves as ICE agents while waiting for a bus in Redmond, Washington. When she handed them her Tribal ID issued by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation in Oregon, the immigration agents reportedly claimed her ID was “fake” and that “anyone can make that.” When she tried to call the Umatilla Tribal enrollment office phone number to verify her ID to the officers, an officer tried unsuccessfully to pry her phone out of her hands, then departed with his counterparts in unmarked vehicles. Miles alleges her son and uncle were also both detained by ICE agents who initially did not accept their Tribal IDs before eventually releasing them. In response, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin—a frequent liar—said in an emailed statement that allegations that DHS law enforcement officers engage in racial profiling is “categorically FALSE.”

The senators referenced this incident in their letter, noting that ICE had previously told Members of Congress that “The ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Academy does not train ERO officers to require any specific document to prove U.S. citizenship.”

“The experience of these Tribal citizens in Washington suggests that this is false: ICE agents are demanding certain documents to prove citizenship and are unaware of different forms of Tribal ID,” the lawmakers wrote.

In another recent incident, a member of Arizona’s Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Leticia Jacobo, was nearly deported after an Iowa jail mistakenly issued an ICE detainer for another inmate. Despite the fact Jacobo was in possession of her Tribal ID and had her Social Security number on file with the jail, her family had to scramble to prove her identity and Tribal citizenship to the jail staff, who released her just hours before she would have been transferred into federal custody. At least 15 Indigenous people in Arizona and New Mexico reported being questioned or detained by ICE agents in January of 2025. Harassment of Navajo Nation citizens by ICE has been so widespread that Navajo President Buu Nygren took to the airwaves to advise his members to carry identification, driver’s licenses and their Certificate of Indian Blood on their person at all times.

“You have an obligation to uphold the federal government’s trust and treaty obligations to Tribes and to treat Tribal citizens with respect—this is not optional. In light of recent incidents, we urge you to develop policy and trainings to ensure that all ICE agents are trained to recognize Tribal IDs, regardless of whether they are working on Tribal lands,” lawmakers wrote.

The senators concluded by requesting answers no later than January 11, 2026 to their questions about DHS policies regarding interactions with Tribal citizens and Tribal ID, and how the Department is working with its Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties to review and investigate allegations of civil rights violations.

Wyden and Merkley have been strong advocates for congressional oversight, transparency and respect for due process. In November, Wyden and Merkley joined Senate and House colleagues to introduce the Restoring Access to Detainees Act which would ensure the Department of Homeland Security allows noncitizens who have been detained to contact their legal counsel and families. Wyden also has pressed the Department of Homeland Security about obstruction of congressional access to detention facilities. Wyden and Merkley, along with Oregon Representatives Suzanne Bonamici and Val Hoyle, demanded the Trump administration answer questions about reports that DHS had relocated an essential Coast Guard helicopter away from Newport, Oregon and is planning to build an ICE detention facility in the Oregon Coast town. In October, Wyden and Merkley fiercely opposed the administration’s deployment of ICE agents and National Guard troops to the Portland ICE facility.

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Patty Murray, D- Wash. In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., Tim Kaine, D-Va., Ben Ray Lujan, D-N.M., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, and Tina Smith, D-Minn.

The full letter is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-applauds-passage-of-prescribed-fire-legislation-through-key-senate-committee,Wyden Applauds Passage of Prescribed Fire Legislation Through Key Senate Committee,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Senator’s bipartisan legislation would support hazardous fuels cleanup to reduce wildfire risk

Watch Wyden deliver remarks at today’s Committee meeting here

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today applauded the passage of his bipartisan legislation through the Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee that would increase funding and resources for prescribed fires during colder, wetter months, to reduce wildfire risk during the hotter, drier months of fire season.

“I’ve long believed that the federal government needs to be in the business of wildfire prevention, not just after-the-fact recovery,” Wyden said. “My legislation will make much-needed investments in smart, science-backed prevention tools that reduce the risk of infernos that grow more dangerous and destructive each year. I’ll be working as hard as I can to get this legislation passed into law ahead of the next fire season to protect communities across Oregon and the nation.”

The National Prescribed Fire Act of 2025 would invest in hazardous fuels management to reduce the risk of blistering infernos by increasing the pace and scale of prescribed burns during cooler, wetter months. The legislation would boost a prescribed fire workforce and provide new tools to aid in smoke management and prescribed fire permitting during cooler, wetter months to reduce catastrophic fires and smoke in the summer.

Passage of Wyden’s legislation through the ENR Committee comes amid reports that current hazardous fuels reduction levels are lagging behind previous years due to the longest government shutdown in history, coupled with staffing shortages and funding cuts.

More information about Wyden’s bill can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-colleagues-demand-answers-from-ice-on-racial-profiling-of-tribal-members-refusal-to-accept-tribal-ids,"Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Demand Answers from ICE on Racial Profiling of Tribal Members, Refusal to Accept Tribal IDs",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Letter cites reported abuses of Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation member

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today joined Senate colleagues to demand answers regarding the outrageous mistreatment of Tribal citizens by ICE in a number of recent incidents.

In their letter, the lawmakers called out reports of ICE improperly stopping or detaining Tribal citizens for no apparent reason aside from their physical appearance, and urged Department of Homeland Secretary Kristi Noem to develop policy and trainings to ensure all ICE agents are trained to recognize Tribal IDs, regardless of whether they are working on Tribal lands.

“We write to share our alarm over the completely unacceptable treatment of U.S.-born citizens of federally recognized Tribes, who have been stopped and questioned by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on suspicion of being undocumented,” the senators wrote to Noem. “In February, several Senators wrote to you following reports of ICE agents improperly stopping or detaining Tribal citizens. In June, you replied with a letter in which you failed to respond to the majority of the questions raised in the letter.”

“Over the past month, we have heard additional alarming reports of ICE improperly stopping or detaining Tribal citizens for no apparent reason aside from their physical appearance,” the senators wrote. “The disrespect and harassment of U.S.-born Tribal citizens by ICE is outrageous and inexcusable, and we request that you take immediate steps to put an end to it.”

In November, Elaine Miles, an Indigenous actor, was approached by four men who identified themselves as ICE agents while waiting for a bus in Redmond, Washington. When she handed them her Tribal ID issued by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation in Oregon, the immigration agents reportedly claimed her ID was “fake” and that “anyone can make that.” When she tried to call the Umatilla Tribal enrollment office phone number to verify her ID to the officers, an officer tried unsuccessfully to pry her phone out of her hands, then departed with his counterparts in unmarked vehicles. Miles alleges her son and uncle were also both detained by ICE agents who initially did not accept their Tribal IDs before eventually releasing them. In response, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin—a frequent liar—said in an emailed statement that allegations that DHS law enforcement officers engage in racial profiling is “categorically FALSE.”

The senators referenced this incident in their letter, noting that ICE had previously told Members of Congress that “The ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Academy does not train ERO officers to require any specific document to prove U.S. citizenship.”

“The experience of these Tribal citizens in Washington suggests that this is false: ICE agents are demanding certain documents to prove citizenship and are unaware of different forms of Tribal ID,” the lawmakers wrote.

In another recent incident, a member of Arizona’s Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Leticia Jacobo, was nearly deported after an Iowa jail mistakenly issued an ICE detainer for another inmate. Despite the fact Jacobo was in possession of her Tribal ID and had her Social Security number on file with the jail, her family had to scramble to prove her identity and Tribal citizenship to the jail staff, who released her just hours before she would have been transferred into federal custody. At least 15 Indigenous people in Arizona and New Mexico reported being questioned or detained by ICE agents in January of 2025. Harassment of Navajo Nation citizens by ICE has been so widespread that Navajo President Buu Nygren took to the airwaves to advise his members to carry identification, driver’s licenses and their Certificate of Indian Blood on their person at all times.

“You have an obligation to uphold the federal government’s trust and treaty obligations to Tribes and to treat Tribal citizens with respect—this is not optional. In light of recent incidents, we urge you to develop policy and trainings to ensure that all ICE agents are trained to recognize Tribal IDs, regardless of whether they are working on Tribal lands,” lawmakers wrote.

The senators concluded by requesting answers no later than January 11, 2026 to their questions about DHS policies regarding interactions with Tribal citizens and Tribal ID, and how the Department is working with its Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties to review and investigate allegations of civil rights violations.

Wyden and Merkley have been strong advocates for congressional oversight, transparency and respect for due process. In November, Wyden and Merkley joined Senate and House colleagues to introduce the Restoring Access to Detainees Act which would ensure the Department of Homeland Security allows noncitizens who have been detained to contact their legal counsel and families. Wyden also has pressed the Department of Homeland Security about obstruction of congressional access to detention facilities. Wyden and Merkley, along with Oregon Representatives Suzanne Bonamici and Val Hoyle, demanded the Trump administration answer questions about reports that DHS had relocated an essential Coast Guard helicopter away from Newport, Oregon and is planning to build an ICE detention facility in the Oregon Coast town. In October, Wyden and Merkley fiercely opposed the administration’s deployment of ICE agents and National Guard troops to the Portland ICE facility.

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Patty Murray, D- Wash. In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., Tim Kaine, D-Va., Ben Ray Lujan, D-N.M., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, and Tina Smith, D-Minn.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-votes-no-on-bloated-military-authorization-bill,Wyden Votes No on Bloated Military Authorization Bill,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"NDAA Increases Military Spending by Billions; Lacks Guardrails Against Deploying Troops to U.S. Cities, Purging Military Leaders Without Cause and Other Trump Abuses

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., issued the following statement after voting against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

“I cannot support a bill that increases military spending by tens of billions of dollars and fails to include guardrails against Donald Trump and Secretary Hegseth’s authoritarian abuses.

“Donald Trump has repeatedly used the military to occupy major U.S. cities, including Portland—endangering our servicemembers, disrupting our economy, and eroding trust in our communities.

“He has also shown that he will use the Department of Defense to conduct deadly military operations without congressional authorization to intimidate political opponents and immigrants through the military, to purge senior military leaders without cause, to funnel billions of dollars in contracts to his personal supporters, and to waste billions of taxpayer dollars.

“I do support parts of this bill, such as giving our military servicemembers a needed raise, repealing the deeply flawed 2002 authorization for use of military force against Iraq, and increasing support for our Indo-Pacific allies and Ukraine.

“And while this bill includes the Intelligence Authorization Act, it lacks important oversight guardrails as well as critical Intelligence Community whistleblower protections passed by the Senate Intelligence Committee. The bill does include a provision I added to declassify information on whether foreign governments have helped their nationals accused of crimes in the United States flee the country to avoid justice, however, the bill’s faults far outweigh its benefits.

“For these reasons, among many other flaws in this bill, I voted ‘no.’”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-lujan-no-business-as-usual-until-justice-delivered-for-jeffrey-epsteins-victims/,"Merkley, Luján: No Business as Usual Until Justice Delivered for Jeffrey Epstein’s Victims",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and New Mexico’s U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján—the lead Senate sponsors of the Epstein Files Transparency Act—announced they would block any pending civilian nominations before the Senate from being carried over to the new session of Congress in response to the Trump Administration’s failure to provide a briefing to lawmakers on the release of the Epstein Files. Merkley and Luján issued this statement announcing their hold:

“There can be no business as usual until justice is delivered for the victims of Jeffrey Epstein’s horrific crimes. The Trump Administration’s lack of transparency about its plans to release the Epstein Files signals it is gearing up to disregard the law we led the fight in the Senate to pass, which overwhelmingly passed both chambers of Congress. Without full transparency and accountability, there can be no ‘equal justice under the law.’ Until the administration reverses course and provides a common-sense briefing, which lawmakers from both parties requested, we are blocking the Senate from carrying over any outstanding civilian nominations into next year.”

Earlier this month, Merkley teamed up with Luján and a bipartisan group of lawmakers to demand a briefing from Attorney General Pam Bondi on the U.S. Department of Justice’s efforts to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act and fully release the Epstein Files by December 19, 2025—as required by the law Merkley and Luján championed.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-marshall-launch-new-bipartisan-effort-to-unlock-federal-support-for-hazardous-cleanup-following-wildfires/,"Merkley, Marshall Launch New Bipartisan Effort to Unlock Federal Support for Hazardous Cleanup Following Wildfires",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and Kansas’ U.S. Senator Roger Marshall introduced the brand-new Post-Wildfire Environmental Assistance Act. The bipartisan bill provides a straightforward solution for communities in Oregon and across the nation to access federal aid for hazardous material cleanup following a wildfire.

“Fighting wildfires requires strong, commonsense policies to support both prevention and recovery efforts,” said Merkley. “Our bipartisan bill comes after Oregonians were left with nothing to help clean up hazardous materials following a devastating wildfire. We can and should fix this to ensure all communities can safely clean up following a fire by unlocking federal assistance for state and local governments to clean up hazardous substances and materials that are too often left behind.”

“When a fast-moving wildfire tore through Yates Center and destroyed its nursing home, community members and first responders heroically evacuated every resident to safety. But the danger didn’t end when the flames were extinguished. Wildfires leave behind hazardous debris, contaminated sites, and serious long-term health risks that small communities are often not equipped to manage on their own,” said Marshall. “I am proud to partner with Senator Merkley to ensure local governments have the tools and support they need to respond to wildfires, safely clean up hazardous debris, and protect the health and safety of their communities.”

In June 2025, the Rowena Fire in Wasco County Oregon tore up the Historic Columbia River Highway and destroyed 56 homes. The fire was granted approval for Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAG), but the damage did not meet the threshold for a Major Disaster declaration – which would have unlocked federal aid for the cleanup of hazardous material debris – including toxic exposure from asbestos and heavy metals from burned structures, and contaminated wells and septic systems.

Learning from this disaster, Merkley wrote the Post-Wildfire Environmental Assistance Act based on outreach from impacted communities who are struggling to navigate the cleanup of hazardous material debris following the fire. His bipartisan bill would enable the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to offer relevant expertise and technical assistance to state and local governments, helping mitigate long-term risks to human health and the environment.

The bipartisan Post-Wildfire Environmental Assistance Act is supported by the following organizations and individuals: Wasco County Emergency Manager Sheridan McClellan, Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), Friends of the Columbia Gorge, Oregon Environmental Council (OEC), Union County Emergency Manager Nick Vora, the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), Western Fire Chiefs Association, Oregon Fire Chiefs Association, Hood River County Board of Commissioners, Sisters Mayor Jennifer Letz, Redmond Mayor Ed Fitch, Redmond City Councilor John Nielsen, Ashland Fire & Rescue, Mid-Columbia Economic Development District, Jackson County Community Long-Term Recovery Group, Deschutes Collaborative Forest Project, Southern Oregon Forest Restoration Collaborative, FireGeneration Collaborative, Harney County Emergency Manager, Grant County Emergency Manager, and Umatilla County Board of Commissioners.

“Delaying or not performing hazardous debris cleanup after a wildfire could cause irreversible environmental damage and escalating health crises. This bill delivers the urgent resources we need to protect our land, water, food, cultural heritage, and the healthy future our children deserve,” said Wasco County Emergency Manager Sheridan McClellan.

“Timely removal of hazardous wildfire debris is essential for any community’s recovery,” said Erin McMahon, Director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM). “Across the country, families are unable to begin rebuilding because toxic debris remains long after the flames are out. This legislation strengthens federal support so survivors can return home sooner and recover more safely.”

“The Rowena and Burdoin fires destroyed over seventy residences in the Gorge this summer. With no current federal aid to deal with the toxic aftermath, the Post-Wildfire Environmental Assistance Act fills a critical gap in disaster recovery to help Gorge families rebuild their lives,” said Friends of Columbia Gorge Executive Director Kevin Gorman.

“When wildfire hits a community, we know that money can’t replace all that’s lost. But without the necessary funds, communities are left trying to manage a separate disaster in the aftermath of a wildfire,” said Jana Gastellum, Executive Director of the Oregon Environmental Council. “Cleaning up toxic materials is vitally important in helping wildfire-impacted communities prevent further harm to the health and safety of their residents as they focus on recovering. Simply put: this funding will save lives.”

“Fire is a natural force we have to live with and prepare for, but sometimes even the best preparation cannot stop destruction from extreme fire events,” said Nick Vora, Union County Emergency Manager. “When the smoke clears, communities are often left with substantial debris – including hazardous materials – that need to be cleaned-up as a first step in recovery. For uninsured or underinsured properties, the financial consequence can be abandonment and even tax foreclosure not to mention homelessness for the residents. Legislation to facilitate federal assistance to local communities with post-fire clean-up will be a large step to help communities across the United States be resilient to destructive fires.”

Merkley has been a long-time leader in the fight to prepare for and mitigate the worst impacts of wildfires. He leads a series of bipartisan bills to support mills processing hazardous fuels coming off public lands, train the new generation of wildland firefighters, and promote collaborative forest management.

A one-page summary of the Post-Wildfire Environmental Assistance Act can be found by clicking here.

Full text of the Post-Wildfire Environmental Assistance Act can be found by clicking here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-oregon-delegation-no-new-ice-facilities-in-oregon/,"Merkley, Oregon Delegation: No New ICE Facilities in Oregon",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley led his Democratic colleagues in the Oregon congressional delegation—Senator Ron Wyden and Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), and Janelle Bynum (OR-05)—in demanding urgent answers from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) about any plans to expand ICE’s footprint in Oregon.

“We write to request a full and detailed description of any plans to open or expand Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facilities in Oregon. Recent public job postings in the Portland and Newport areas suggest that planning is well underway to contract for a new or expanded detention facility, but no formal notice has been provided to local or state leaders, or to Oregon’s congressional delegation,” wrote the Oregon delegation to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons. “We strongly and unequivocally reject the need for any new detention capacity and urge you to honor the public’s right to be informed and review your plans before any contracts are signed or facilities are opened. Oregonians deserve far better from the Trump administration than this shabby track record of absolute secrecy and total disdain for their communities’ viewpoints.”

The lawmakers raised serious concerns about increased ICE detentions of U.S. citizens and non-citizens alike, regardless of criminal history, and illegally denying due process.

They emphasized, “The information we require is critical to support Congress’s responsibility to protect detainees’ bedrock human and legal rights. As witnessed in the disastrous setup of Florida’s Alligator Alcatraz in the Everglades, hastily assembled detention centers invite horrific abuse and fail to effectively support efforts to detain dangerous criminals who pose a genuine threat to community safety. One recent report from Amnesty International found that people detained in Alligator Alcatraz are living in inhumane and unsanitary conditions. These conditions include overflowing toilets, limited access to showers, exposure to insects without protection, lights on 24-hours-a-day, and lack of privacy – including cameras above the toilets. This record of abuse demands deep skepticism and scrutiny of any plan to open detention facilities in Oregon.”

Merkley has led the charge to oppose the escalating ICE presence throughout the state, partnering with the Oregon delegation to speak out against ICE activities in Portland and Newport. He urged Portland protestors to “not take the bait” in response to the Trump Administration’s aggression toward the city and pushed for the release of Jackie Merlos, a mother of four who was illegally held in ICE custody for over 100 days.

Full text of the letter can be found by clicking here and follows below:

Dear Secretary Noem and Acting Director Lyons,

We write to request a full and detailed description of any plans to open or expand Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facilities in Oregon. Recent public job postings in the Portland and Newport areas suggest that planning is well underway to contract for a new or expanded detention facility, but no formal notice has been provided to local or state leaders, or to Oregon’s congressional delegation. We strongly and unequivocally reject the need for any new detention capacity and urge you to honor the public’s right to be informed and review your plans before any contracts are signed or facilities are opened. Oregonians deserve far better from the Trump administration than this shabby track record of absolute secrecy and total disdain for their communities’ viewpoints.

ICE has been increasingly using dragnet practices to detain groups of people with little attention to citizenship or criminal history. Despite near constant claims and reassurances that ICE is pursuing dangerous criminal noncitizens, a recent review of immigration detentions in Oregon from January through October 2025 shows that less than 10 percent of those arrested had been convicted of a violent crime. In Oregon and nationally, the vast majority of people arrested have never been convicted of any crime whatsoever. In addition to not prioritizing public threats, ICE has been detaining U.S. citizens in record numbers. One recent report found more than 170 detentions of U.S. citizens in the first nine months of 2025.

The information we require is critical to support Congress’s responsibility to protect detainees’ bedrock human and legal rights. As witnessed in the disastrous setup of Florida’s Alligator Alcatraz in the Everglades, hastily assembled detention centers invite horrific abuse and fail to effectively support efforts to detain dangerous criminals who pose a genuine threat to community safety. One recent report from Amnesty International found that people detained in Alligator Alcatraz are living in inhumane and unsanitary conditions. These conditions include overflowing toilets, limited access to showers, exposure to insects without protection, lights on 24-hours-a-day, and lack of privacy – including cameras above the toilets. This record of abuse demands deep skepticism and scrutiny of any plan to open detention facilities in Oregon.

Another significant concern requiring your attention is access to counsel. Oregonians in ICE detention are often moved from one location to another in a manner that effectively denies timely access to legal counsel. Recent legal filings from Oregon nonprofits show that current detention sites in Oregon do not have sufficient space for lawyers to physically meet with their clients. Denying due process to detained individuals in this fashion is a moral stain that demands immediate action, and must not be replicated in any new detention site under consideration.

We reiterate our steadfast opposition to any new or expanded ICE detention facilities in Oregon. Please submit a written response detailing any plans to open or expand Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facilities in Oregon as soon as possible, and not later than Friday December 19, 2025.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-leads-colleagues-calling-on-trump-administration-to-crack-down-on-growing-threat-of-synthetic-opioids,Wyden Leads Colleagues Calling on Trump Administration to Crack Down on Growing Threat of Synthetic Opioids,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Letter comes as Trump administration reduces funding and workforce to counter ongoing fentanyl crisis

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today led his colleagues in pressing the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on how it is prioritizing a federal response to the growing threat of synthetic opioids, specifically a class of drugs known as “nitazenes.”

Although nitazenes were originally developed as pain relievers in the 1950s, these synthetic opioids are now illicitly manufactured abroad and then trafficked across the United States. Illicitly-manufactured nitazenes have been shown to be more than ten times more powerful than fentanyl. Nitazenes frequently go undetected in toxicology screenings, so the full extent of its role in overdoses and addiction remains unknown. Despite the growing threat, the federal response to the growing crisis has remained insufficient.

“Without swift intervention, nitazenes will drive a new wave of addiction and overdose deaths,” the senators wrote to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. “There is an urgent need for a coordinated federal response that prioritizes prevention, early detection, treatment, and expanded access to harm reduction tools like naloxone, especially as law enforcement agencies like the DEA have classified nitazenes as an emerging threat. We urge the Department of Health and Human Services to formulate a strategy to address the rising threat of nitazenes before it escalates into a full-scale public health crisis.”

“We certainly support the efforts of Sen. Wyden to keep dangerous drugs off our streets and we appreciate his efforts specifically to attack the flow of Nitazenes,” said Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez.

“Synthetic opioids continue to pose a serious and growing threat to Eastern Oregon communities, placing increased demands on law enforcement, first responders, and local health systems.,"" said La Grande Police chief Gary Bell. ""Strong federal coordination and improved detection capabilities are critical to help communities identify emerging substances before they become widespread and to support effective response efforts. Expanded access to naloxone and other evidence-based harm reduction tools would save lives, enhance responder safety, and create more opportunities to connect individuals with treatment and recovery services.”

""Our officers in the field are at risk (daily) of exposure from the onset of the call through the processing of any evidence collected at the end of the incident,"" said Hermiston Police Chief Jason Edmiston. ""Local agencies in Oregon are forced to cut or reduce other programming to protect our employees by purchasing preventative technologies. Prioritizing first responders with the dissemination of naloxone and other drug detection equipment can only happen with the assistance of the federal government and will allow us to dedicate limited resources to other areas that benefit the community we serve.""

“Nitazenes pose an unprecedented threat to Oregonians,"" said State Senator Anthony Broadman (D-Bend), Public Safety budget co-chair for the Oregon State Senate. ""I commend Senator Wyden's leadership in demanding swift federal action to combat these dangerous these synthetic opioids before they escalate into a full-scale public health crisis. His call for enhanced detection, prevention, and harm reduction is exactly what Oregon needs. These ultra-potent synthetic opioids are driving a new wave of addiction and overdose deaths, and we need the coordinated federal strategy Senator Wyden is demanding.""

Earlier this year, the Trump administration terminated more than 100 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) employees, reducing its staff to less than 50 percent capacity. SAMHSA, under Health and Human Services, provides key addiction and mental health treatment services. Wyden led his colleagues in slamming the Trump administration for purging the HHS of staff on the frontlines of the opioid epidemic.

The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has classified nitazenes as a growing threat, but there remains an urgent need for a coordinated federal response that prioritizes prevention, early detection, and expanded access to harm reduction tools like naloxone. The senators emphasized the need for a plan that includes investing in research to develop resources which could reverse overdoses.

Wyden is joined in the letter by Senators Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Adam Schiff, D-Calif., Tina Smith, D-Minn., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn.

Given the alarming threat of nitazenes, the senators request answers from HHS on how it would monitor, mitigate, and respond to this emerging threat, specifically:

What steps is HHS taking to improve detection and reporting of nitazene-related overdoses and deaths across states?

Does CDC plan to expand routine toxicology screening protocols to include nitazenes in state and local medical examiner systems?

How is HHS coordinating with DEA and state health departments to ensure timely identification of new nitazene analogs?

What resources or technical assistance is HHS providing to laboratories to increase their capacity to detect nitazenes?

Has HHS issued, or does it plan to issue, national guidance or alerts to clinicians, first responders, and harm-reduction organizations about nitazene risks and detection challenges?

What efforts are underway to ensure that harm-reduction organizations and people who use drugs receive timely information about nitazene-contaminated supplies?

Are there plans to integrate nitazene awareness into existing opioid-response campaigns or naloxone distribution programs?

What evidence does HHS have regarding naloxone’s effectiveness against nitazene-involved overdoses at current recommended doses?

If higher or repeated doses of naloxone are required, is HHS providing updated training or guidance to local health departments and first responders?

How is HHS ensuring that medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) programs are equipped to address patients exposed to ultra-potent synthetic opioids?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-press-lutnick-on-administrations-decision-to-sell-out-national-and-economic-security-by-greenlighting-the-sale-of-advanced-chips-to-china,"Wyden, Colleagues Press Lutnick on Administration’s Decision to Sell Out National and Economic Security by Greenlighting the Sale of Advanced Chips to China",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"The lawmakers highlight concerns from Department of Justice law enforcement officials about letting advanced AI chips fall into China’s hands; Question if Justice Department officials were involved in the decision

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he has joined Senate colleagues to raise concerns over the Trump Administration’s decision to disregard warnings from its own Department of Justice and allow NVIDIA to export its advanced H200 AI chips to China.

“The President’s dangerous decision to give away critical national security controls represents a significant departure from longstanding bipartisan efforts to ensure that U.S. technology does not turbocharge China’s military and technological capabilities,” the lawmakers wrote to Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnik. “The PRC seeks NVIDIA’s H200s chips to develop and deploy AI systems, including for military and cyber operations.”

“The Department confirmed that these advanced chips are the ‘building blocks of AI superiority’ that ‘are integral to modern military applications.’ The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas underscored that ‘(t)he country that controls these chips will control AI technology; the country that controls AI technology will control the future,’” the lawmakers continued.

“During your confirmation hearing, you advocated for stronger export controls, saying ‘if they are going to compete with us, let them compete, but stop using our tools to compete with us.’ Unfortunately, under your tenure, the Department of Commerce appears to be handing out key favors that undermine our national security based on which corporate CEOs can do the best job of wooing President Trump,” the lawmakers continued.

The senators concluded by requesting answers no later than December 19, 2025 to their questions on the decision to allow H200 AI chips to be sold to China.

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass. In addition to Wyden, the letter was also signed by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. and U.S. Senators Andy Kim, D-N.J., Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Tim Kaine, D-Va., and Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-wicker-kiggans-bonamici-lead-bipartisan-bicameral-effort-to-oppose-new-limits-on-student-loans-for-nurses/,"Merkley, Wicker, Kiggans, Bonamici Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Oppose New Limits on Student Loans for Nurses",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and Mississippi’s U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, along with U.S. Representatives Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02) and Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01), led over 140 bipartisan lawmakers to sound the alarm over a proposed framework by the U.S. Department of Education to declassify nursing degrees as “professional” and undermining the entire future of the nursing workforce.

Their letter follows a recently released proposed framework from the Education Department’s Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Committee that omits post-baccalaureate nursing degrees from the regulatory definition of “professional degree,” meaning they would be classified as a “graduate degree.” If this framework is adopted during the upcoming rulemaking, the proposed definition threatens more debt for post-baccalaureate nursing students, as student loans are currently capped for new borrowers at $20,500 annually and $100,000 in the aggregate for “graduate” programs and $50,000 annually and $200,000 in the aggregate for “professional” programs.

“At a time when our nation is facing a health care shortage, especially in primary care, now is not the time to cut off the student pipeline to these programs,” the bipartisan group of over 140 lawmakers wrote to the Education Department. “According to the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC), fifty-seven percent of Medicare beneficiaries received a primary care service from an NP or physician associate (PA), and sixty-six percent of rural Medicare patients received a primary care service from an NP or PA. Consequently, we believe that post-baccalaureate nursing degrees should be included in the department’s definition of a ‘professional degree.’”

“Nurses and nurse faculty make up the backbone of our health system, and post-baccalaureate nursing degrees lead to demonstrated outcomes, with a recent study from the Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity showing that nursing was one of the top three master’s degrees for return on investment. As such, post-baccalaureate nursing degrees should be treated equally to other accredited post-baccalaureate health profession degrees,” the lawmakers stressed.

As leaders of the Senate and House Nursing Caucuses, Merkley, Wicker, Kiggans, and Bonamici have long championed legislation to support the more than 5 million registered nurses across the United States and address the challenges facing the nursing workforce. Merkley is the husband of a nurse, and Kiggans is one of three nurses currently serving in Congress.

The bipartisan letter is supported by over 65 organizations including, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing; American Association of Nurse Practitioners; American Nurses Association; American College of Nurse-Midwives; Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses; National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners; National Council of State Boards of Nursing; and the National League of Nursing. A full list of supporting organizations can be found by clicking here.

In addition to Merkley, Wicker, Kiggans, and Bonamici, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Angela D. Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Christopher Coons (D-DE), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Adam B. Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) and U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE-02), Nanette Barragán (D-CA-44), Ami Bera (D-CA-06), Donald Beyer (D-VA-08), Brendan Boyle (D-PA-02), Robert Bresnahan (R-PA-08), Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), Julia Brownley (D-CA-26), Janelle Bynum (D-OR-05), Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), André Carson (D-IN-07), Greg Casar (D-TX-35), Kathy Castor (D-FL-14), Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20), Judy Chu (D-CA-28), Gilbert Cisneros (D-CA-31), Yvette Clarke (D-NY-09), J. Luis Correa (D-CA-46), Joe Courtney (D-CT-02), Angie Craig (D-MN-02), Jason Crow (D-CO-06), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Donald Davis (D-NC-01), Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04), Suzan DelBene (D-WA-01), Christopher Deluzio (D-PA-17), Maxine Dexter (D-OR-03), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX-37), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13), Dwight Evans (D-PA-03), Cleo Fields (D-LA-06), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Bill Foster (D-IL-11), Valerie Foushee (D-NC-04), Laura Friedman (D-CA-30), John Garamendi (D-CA-08), Daniel Goldman (D-NY-10), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-02), Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ-07), Jahana Hayes (D-CT-05), Val Hoyle (D-OR-04), Jared Huffman (D-CA-02), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), David Joyce (R-OH-14), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Greg Landsman (D-OH-01), Rick Larsen (D-WA-02), George Latimer (D-NY-16), Michael Lawler (R-NY-17), Summer Lee (D-PA-12), Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM-03), Mike Levin (D-CA-49), Ted Lieu (D-CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (D-CA-18), Stephen Lynch (D-MA-08), Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA-07), Sarah McBride (D-DE-AL), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI-08), James McGovern (D-MA-02), Grace Meng (D-NY-06), Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07), Dave Min (D-CA-47), Joseph Morelle (D-NY-25), Kelly Morrison (D-MN-03), James Moylan (R-GU-AL), Kevin Mullin (D-CA-15), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-AL), Chris Pappas (D-NH-01), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA-03), Scott Peters (D-CA-50), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO-07), Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), Mark Pocan (D-WI-02), Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA-07), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Emily Randall (D-WA-06), Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Josh Riley (D-NY-19), Deborah Ross (D-NC-02), Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25), Andrea Salinas (D-OR-06), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-05), Janice Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), Kim Schrier (D-WA-08), Terri Sewell (D-AL-07), Brad Sherman (D-CA-32), Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), Adam Smith (D-WA-09), Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17), Melanie Stansbury (D-NM-01), Greg Stanton (D-AZ-04), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10), Thomas Suozzi (D-NY-03), Eric Swalwell (D-CA-14), Mike Thompson (D-CA-04), Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Jill Tokuda (D-HI-02), Paul Tonko (D-NY-20), Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15), Lori Trahan (D-MA-03), Derek Tran (D-CA-45), Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14), Jefferson Van Drew (R-NJ-02), Juan Vargas (D-CA-52), Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-02), Nydia Velázquez (D-NY-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12), George Whitesides (D-CA-27), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24).

Full text of their bipartisan letter can be found by clicking here and follows below:

Dear Under Secretary Kent:

We write regarding the Department of Education’s Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Committee’s ongoing rulemaking to implement the student financial aid provisions under Public Law 119–21. As Members of Congress who have championed legislation to strengthen the nursing workforce, we write with concerns over the RISE Committee’s decision to omit post-baccalaureate nursing degrees from the regulatory definition of “professional degree” in its recently released proposed framework.

Nurses are central to our health care system. They comprise the largest health care workforce in the United States, with more than 5 million registered nurses nationwide. Nurses provide high-quality care to patients in all communities, including rural and urban areas, yet we are in the midst of a nursing workforce crisis in this country. According to the 2024 National Nursing Workforce Study, more than 138,000 nurses have left the workforce since 2022 due to stress, burnout, and retirement. This study also outlined predictions that by 2029, almost 40 percent of nurses intend to leave the workforce. Given this trend, we have a strong interest in bolstering the nursing workforce and supporting legislation that will make it easier for nurses to enter the field.

The RISE Committee’s proposed definition will make it more difficult for nurses to join the health care workforce because post-baccalaureate nursing degrees are excluded from the list of health care degrees in the definition of a “professional degree.” This list includes Pharmacy (PharmD), Dentistry (DDS or DMD), Medicine (MD), and Clinical Psychology (PsyD or PhD), but it omits post-baccalaureate nursing degrees such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and a PhD in nursing. However, the proposed definition describes a professional degree as a degree that “signifies both completion of the academic requirements for beginning practice in a given profession and a level of professional skill beyond that normally required for a bachelor’s degree.” The definition also states that a professional degree “generally requires professional licensure to begin practice.” Post-baccalaureate nursing degrees satisfy these criteria, as all registered nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination to enter the profession. Similarly, all Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) must have a graduate degree, such as an MSN or a DNP, and require national certification and state licensure to practice.

Post-baccalaureate nursing students also have a demonstrated need to access the higher borrowing limits for professional degrees set in Public Law 119–21. The law states that students earning professional degrees may borrow up to $50,000 annually and $200,000 aggregate, in contrast to students earning graduate degrees, whose borrowing limits are capped at $20,500 annually and $100,000 aggregate. The current graduate level loan cap would not meet the need of most Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) programs, which can cost over $200,000, thereby restricting the pipeline of CRNAs and further limiting an anesthesia workforce that is suffering from shortages across all provider types. CRNA programs have shown to be a critical return on investment, with default rates near zero percent, and a workforce that overwhelmingly provides anesthesia to rural and underserved communities where higher cost physicians do not practice.

In addition, many post-baccalaureate nursing programs hit the annual limit of $20,500, including some programs that may be under the aggregate limit. For instance, many nurse practitioner and other APRN academic programs operate year-round across three full-time semesters, as opposed to the traditional two-semester academic calendar, and thus cost more than $20,500 per year. Classifying these programs as graduate programs would result in these students having to take out additional student loans to cover the remainder of their tuition, which will limit the ability for students to complete their advanced degree.

At a time when our nation is facing a health care shortage, especially in primary care, now is not the time to cut off the student pipeline to these programs. According to the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC), fifty-seven percent of Medicare beneficiaries received a primary care service from an NP or physician associate (PA), and sixty-six percent of rural Medicare patients received a primary care service from an NP or PA. Consequently, we believe that post-baccalaureate nursing degrees should be included in the department’s definition of a “professional degree.”

Nurses and nurse faculty make up the backbone of our health system, and post-baccalaureate nursing degrees lead to demonstrated outcomes, with a recent study from the Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity showing that nursing was one of the top three master’s degrees for return on investment. As such, post-baccalaureate nursing degrees should be treated equally to other accredited post-baccalaureate health profession degrees.

Thank you for your attention to this matter, and we hope to work with you to improve and expand the nursing workforce across the country.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-wyden-hoyle-secure-written-commitment-from-coast-guard-acting-commandant-lunday-that-newport-helicopter-will-remain/,"Merkley, Wyden, Hoyle Secure Written Commitment from Coast Guard Acting Commandant Lunday that Newport Helicopter Will Remain",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"“After hearing from countless Oregonians about the importance of the search and rescue helicopter in Newport, I led the charge to secure written confirmation from the Coast Guard that the helicopter would remain in the community, consistent with the law I wrote in 2014. For fishermen and coastal communities, this is a huge win, especially during winter crab season and in the face of cold-water conditions,” said Merkley. “I am lifting my hold on Admiral Lunday’s nomination and look forward to his forthcoming visit to Newport and to a productive working relationship going forward.”

“I’m gratified that Acting Commandant Lunday today wrote in plain English the verbal commitment he made last week to Senator Merkley and me over the phone – namely that the Coast Guard helicopter will remain right where it belongs in Newport,” said Wyden. “This is great news for fishermen and both residents of — and visitors to — the central Oregon Coast. Thanks to the Newport Fishermen’s Wives and all the local officials who worked with Senator Merkley, Congresswoman Hoyle and me to achieve this victory for public safety, the law and common sense.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/wyden-merkley-colleagues-raise-alarm-over-trump-administration-siphoning-at-least-2-billion-from-military-budget-for-immigration-enforcement/,"Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Raise Alarm Over Trump Administration Siphoning At Least $2 Billion from Military Budget for Immigration Enforcement",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they have joined Senate and House colleagues to release a new report detailing the Trump administration’s diversion of funds and resources from the Department of Defense to the Department of Homeland Security for immigration enforcement, and its impact on readiness and morale of U.S. troops.

“The investigation found that the Department of Defense (DoD) has obligated over $2 billion in support of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and immigration enforcement in 2025, diverting it from the intended use – our national security and military servicemembers,” the lawmakers wrote to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. “This is a baffling waste of military resources considering the appropriation of $170 billion to DHS to fund immigration enforcement earlier this year. We are particularly concerned that DHS may not be reimbursing DoD for these funds. Allowing DHS to continue to pick DoD’s pockets puts our military readiness at risk.“

Under the Trump administration, the U.S. military has become heavily involved in immigration enforcement. The report is the first detailed review of the Pentagon’s spending on immigration, and found that DoD has committed at least $2 billion to support immigration enforcement through mobilizing and deploying troops to U.S. cities and the Southern border, deporting and transporting immigrants on military aircrafts, detaining individuals on U.S. military installations and more.

Despite an unprecedented $170 billion budget allocated to DHS, it’s unclear how much DoD has received in reimbursement for any of its spending on immigration enforcement. Meanwhile, the military is funding these efforts with money allocated for other DoD projects including updates to barracks, maintenance hangers, and military construction projects in the Pacific. Concerningly, the Pentagon has requested an additional $5 billion for further immigration support in its budget request for 2026.

“Diverting the military from its existing missions and thrusting it into immigration enforcement does not make Americans safer. This multi-billion-dollar political stunt is an overt waste of taxpayer resources and undermines national security, military readiness, and resources for our servicemembers,” the lawmakers continued.

The lawmakers’ report found that, in 2025, the Pentagon has committed:

At least $1.3 billion for the deployment of troops and resources to the border;

At least $258 million to support Trump’s orders to deploy troops to Portland, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Memphis, along with plans to reassign 600 Judge Advocates (JAGs) as immigration judges;

At least $420.9 million for detaining immigrants at domestic military installations and overseas bases like Guantánamo and Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti; and

At least $40.3 million for military flights to deport and transport noncitizen detainees.

The report raised concerns that, in addition to the cost of the DoD immigration efforts, it has resulted in “servicemembers…being pulled from their homes, families, and civilian jobs for indefinite periods of time to support legally questionable political stunts,” the lawmakers wrote. The deployments also unnecessarily put our servicemembers in harm’s way: in November, Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, was killed while her West Virginia National Guard unit was deployed to Washington, D.C, and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe was critically injured.

The deployment of troops for immigration enforcement has also weakened the military’s ability to respond to emergencies. For example, the 101st Airborne Division — the U.S. Army’s only air assault division — deployed to the border instead of standing ready for national security missions. Additionally, leading into peak fire season, the California National Guard firefighting unit was “understaffed because roughly half its members (were) deployed to Los Angeles.” These deployments may also require units to miss key training exercises necessary to ensure combat readiness, as the Government Accountability Office found occurred during the first Trump administration.

The diversion of DoD funds is having a devastating effect on the military’s ability to improve services for troops and their families. Among the projects impacted by the prioritization of border operations is a $1 billion renovation of military barracks. Secretary Hegseth also diverted funding from elementary schools at Fort Knox and a U.S. military installation in Germany, an ambulatory care center and dental clinic to service Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, a jet-training facility in Mississippi, and Marine barracks in Japan.

During the first Trump administration, the DoD stopped deploying troops to the border after determining the deployments were hurting military readiness and morale. The border mission appeared to contribute to alcohol and drug abuse among service members, and may have even contributed to a number of tragic suicides among Texas National Guardsmen. The members raised concerns about similar issues arising again, particularly given the lack of clarity around how long deployments will last.

“The Trump administration’s secrecy leaves many questions unanswered. The administration has failed to provide clarity on basic questions about DoD’s role in supporting DHS,” the lawmakers wrote.

The coalition directed follow-up questions to Secretary Hegseth about the number of troops currently supporting immigration enforcement, how long military units will be supporting DHS, and whether DHS will reimburse the military.

Wyden and Merkley have been continuous advocates for government transparency and accountability. In October, both Oregon senators called on the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to probe the cost of the Trump Administration’s brazen decision to deploy National Guard personnel to U.S. cities.

In November, after the Coast Guard announced the 90-mile relocation of a search-and-rescue helicopter from Newport and the possible installation of a new ICE facility, Wyden and Merkley demanded answers from DHS on the changes. After receiving no answer, Wyden called on the Coast Guard to meet ahead of his Lincoln County town hall to explain the helicopter’s departure. In December, Merkley, Wyden and Representative Val Hoyle announced that Admiral Kevin Lunday, Acting Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, committed to keeping the helicopter in Newport.

The report on the diversion of military resources was led by U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Representative John Garamendi, D-Calif. In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the report was co-authored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker, D-N.J., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, Adam Schiff, D-Calif., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., and Representatives Chrissy Houlahan, D-Pa., and Sara Jacobs, D-Calif.

The full letter is here.

The full report is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-hoyle-secure-written-commitment-from-coast-guard-acting-commandant-lunday-that-newport-helicopter-will-remain,"Merkley, Wyden, Hoyle Secure Written Commitment from Coast Guard Acting Commandant Lunday that Newport Helicopter Will Remain",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Follows Merkley placing his hold on Lunday’s nomination to lead Coast Guard, joint efforts to advocate for this essential rescue helicopter

Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, along with Senator Ron Wyden and Congresswoman Val Hoyle (OR-04), announced that they secured written commitments from Admiral Kevin Lunday, Acting Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, to ensure the rescue helicopter located at the Newport Air Facility remains in the community, as well as a pledge from Lunday to visit the Newport area within one year.

“After hearing from countless Oregonians about the importance of the search and rescue helicopter in Newport, I led the charge to secure written confirmation from the Coast Guard that the helicopter would remain in the community, consistent with the law I wrote in 2014. For fishermen and coastal communities, this is a huge win, especially during winter crab season and in the face of cold-water conditions,” said Merkley. “I am lifting my hold on Admiral Lunday’s nomination and look forward to his forthcoming visit to Newport and to a productive working relationship going forward.”

“I’m gratified that Acting Commandant Lunday today wrote in plain English the verbal commitment he made last week to Senator Merkley and me over the phone – namely that the Coast Guard helicopter will remain right where it belongs in Newport,” said Wyden. “This is great news for fishermen and both residents of -- and visitors to -- the central Oregon Coast. Thanks to the Newport Fishermen’s Wives and all the local officials who worked with Senator Merkley, Congresswoman Hoyle and me to achieve this victory for public safety, the law and common sense.”

""I want to thank Acting Commandant Lunday for his letter today committing to us to keep the Coast Guard helicopter in Newport,"" said Hoyle. ""It is a huge win for our coastal community, and it wouldn’t have happened without the collective effort of Senators Wyden and Merkley and every Oregonian who raised their voice. When our community stands together, we get results.”

Merkley, Wyden, and Hoyle worked together to keep the rescue helicopter in Newport, leading a coordinated series of efforts that ultimately succeeded.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-demand-answers-from-usfs-on-stalled-hazardous-fuel-reduction-projects,"Wyden, Colleagues Demand Answers from USFS on Stalled Hazardous Fuel Reduction Projects",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Lawmakers’ letter notes that wildfire prevention work under Trump is down nearly 40 percent from previous years

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he has joined Senate colleagues to demand information from the Trump administration on the number of hazardous fuels projects that have completed environmental reviews pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act, but have not yet been implemented – commonly referred to as “shelf stock.”

“Recent reports indicate that the U.S. Forest Service’s (USFS) work to reduce hazardous fuels across the national forest system in Fiscal Year 2025 was down nearly 40% from its previous four-year average. In a letter to Congress on August 6, 2025, you attributed your constrained “capacity to treat additional acres” in part to “significant resource and personnel” needs elsewhere at the agency,” the lawmakers wrote to USFS Chief Tom Schultz. “Given these issues, and the Trump administration’s reduction of nearly 5,000 USFS staff, we are concerned that the decline in hazardous fuels projects stems from insufficient staffing needed to implement already-approved projects, including for mechanical thinning and prescribed fire.”

The lawmakers highlight that the Trump administration has failed to complete hazardous fuels reduction projects at the same pace and scale as in prior years or at the rate needed in their communities.

“As you know, the best measures to protect lives and property from wildfire is preparedness – reducing fire risks before a conflagration ignites,” the lawmakers concluded.

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, D-Colo. In addition to Wyden, the letter was signed by U.S. Senator Adam Schiff, D-Calif.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-codify-fee-free-days-of-public-service-on-federal-lands,"Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Codify Fee-Free Days of Public Service on Federal Lands",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Trump Removed MLK Day and Juneteenth from List of Fee-Free Days, Included His Birthday Instead

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he has joined Senate and House colleagues to introduce legislation that would guarantee that visitors can enter National Parks and other federal lands free-of-charge six days a year.

The Encouraging Public Service in Our National Parks and Public Land Act would direct the Secretary of the Interior to officially designate Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday, the first day of National Park Week, Juneteenth, Great American Outdoors Day, National Public Lands Day, and Veterans Day as fee-free entry days.

“It is practically embedded in the DNA of all Oregonians to be good stewards for our beautiful natural spaces,” Wyden said. “With this legislation, I hope to export Oregonians’ rich history of forest stewardship and support for outdoor economies, and I will continue to advocate for solutions that protect and expand access to our nation’s scenic public lands.”

Since the National Park System and other land management agencies began collecting entry and recreation fees, the Department of the Interior has offered fee-free days to promote America’s public lands and encourage visitors to volunteer in the National Parks, especially on select federal holidays where many Americans already have the day off. Last week, the Trump Administration cut Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday and Juneteenth, two holidays honoring Black history, from its list of free entrance days next year and replaced them with Trump’s birthday.

The legislation would restore these two holidays to the list of free entrance days and make a list of public service days permanently fee-free. Additional free entry days would be possible at the discretion of the Secretary of the Interior. The dates are as follows:

Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday, the third Monday in January

The first day of National Park Week in April

Juneteenth, June 19

Great American Outdoors Day, August 4

National Public Lands Day, the fourth Saturday in September

Veterans Day, November 11

The bill was led by U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev. In addition to Wyden, the legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, and Adam Schiff, D-Calif.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-colleagues-raise-alarm-over-trump-administration-siphoning-at-least-2-billion-from-military-budget-for-immigration-enforcement,"Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Raise Alarm Over Trump Administration Siphoning At Least $2 Billion from Military Budget for Immigration Enforcement",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,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 Senate and House colleagues to release a new report detailing the Trump administration’s diversion of funds and resources from the Department of Defense to the Department of Homeland Security for immigration enforcement, and its impact on readiness and morale of U.S. troops.

“The investigation found that the Department of Defense (DoD) has obligated over $2 billion in support of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and immigration enforcement in 2025, diverting it from the intended use – our national security and military servicemembers,” the lawmakers wrote to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. “This is a baffling waste of military resources considering the appropriation of $170 billion to DHS to fund immigration enforcement earlier this year. We are particularly concerned that DHS may not be reimbursing DoD for these funds. Allowing DHS to continue to pick DoD’s pockets puts our military readiness at risk.“

Under the Trump administration, the U.S. military has become heavily involved in immigration enforcement. The report is the first detailed review of the Pentagon’s spending on immigration, and found that DoD has committed at least $2 billion to support immigration enforcement through mobilizing and deploying troops to U.S. cities and the Southern border, deporting and transporting immigrants on military aircrafts, detaining individuals on U.S. military installations and more.

Despite an unprecedented $170 billion budget allocated to DHS, it’s unclear how much DoD has received in reimbursement for any of its spending on immigration enforcement. Meanwhile, the military is funding these efforts with money allocated for other DoD projects including updates to barracks, maintenance hangers, and military construction projects in the Pacific. Concerningly, the Pentagon has requested an additional $5 billion for further immigration support in its budget request for 2026.

“Diverting the military from its existing missions and thrusting it into immigration enforcement does not make Americans safer. This multi-billion-dollar political stunt is an overt waste of taxpayer resources and undermines national security, military readiness, and resources for our servicemembers,” the lawmakers continued.

The lawmakers’ report found that, in 2025, the Pentagon has committed:

At least $1.3 billion for the deployment of troops and resources to the border;

At least $258 million to support Trump’s orders to deploy troops to Portland, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Memphis, along with plans to reassign 600 Judge Advocates (JAGs) as immigration judges;

At least $420.9 million for detaining immigrants at domestic military installations and overseas bases like Guantánamo and Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti; and

At least $40.3 million for military flights to deport and transport noncitizen detainees.

The report raised concerns that, in addition to the cost of the DoD immigration efforts, it has resulted in “servicemembers…being pulled from their homes, families, and civilian jobs for indefinite periods of time to support legally questionable political stunts,” the lawmakers wrote. The deployments also unnecessarily put our servicemembers in harm's way: in November, Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, was killed while her West Virginia National Guard unit was deployed to Washington, D.C, and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe was critically injured.

The deployment of troops for immigration enforcement has also weakened the military’s ability to respond to emergencies. For example, the 101st Airborne Division — the U.S. Army’s only air assault division — deployed to the border instead of standing ready for national security missions. Additionally, leading into peak fire season, the California National Guard firefighting unit was “understaffed because roughly half its members (were) deployed to Los Angeles.” These deployments may also require units to miss key training exercises necessary to ensure combat readiness, as the Government Accountability Office found occurred during the first Trump administration.

The diversion of DoD funds is having a devastating effect on the military’s ability to improve services for troops and their families. Among the projects impacted by the prioritization of border operations is a $1 billion renovation of military barracks. Secretary Hegseth also diverted funding from elementary schools at Fort Knox and a U.S. military installation in Germany, an ambulatory care center and dental clinic to service Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, a jet-training facility in Mississippi, and Marine barracks in Japan.

During the first Trump administration, the DoD stopped deploying troops to the border after determining the deployments were hurting military readiness and morale. The border mission appeared to contribute to alcohol and drug abuse among service members, and may have even contributed to a number of tragic suicides among Texas National Guardsmen. The members raised concerns about similar issues arising again, particularly given the lack of clarity around how long deployments will last.

“The Trump administration’s secrecy leaves many questions unanswered. The administration has failed to provide clarity on basic questions about DoD’s role in supporting DHS,” the lawmakers wrote.

The coalition directed follow-up questions to Secretary Hegseth about the number of troops currently supporting immigration enforcement, how long military units will be supporting DHS, and whether DHS will reimburse the military.

Wyden and Merkley have been continuous advocates for government transparency and accountability. In October, both Oregon senators called on the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to probe the cost of the Trump Administration’s brazen decision to deploy National Guard personnel to U.S. cities.

In November, after the Coast Guard announced the 90-mile relocation of a search-and-rescue helicopter from Newport and the possible installation of a new ICE facility, Wyden and Merkley demanded answers from DHS on the changes. After receiving no answer, Wyden called on the Coast Guard to meet ahead of his Lincoln County town hall to explain the helicopter’s departure. In December, Merkley, Wyden and Representative Val Hoyle announced that Admiral Kevin Lunday, Acting Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, committed to keeping the helicopter in Newport.

The report on the diversion of military resources was led by U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Representative John Garamendi, D-Calif. In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the report was co-authored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker, D-N.J., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, Adam Schiff, D- Calif., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., and Representatives Chrissy Houlahan, D-Pa., and Sara Jacobs, D-Calif.

The full letter is here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-schiff-underwood-lead-push-to-increase-nursing-education-and-workforce-support/,"Merkley, Schiff, Underwood Lead Push to Increase Nursing Education and Workforce Support",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"“Nurses continue to find themselves on the front lines of our major public health battles, often without the full support they need,” said Merkley. “As the husband of a nurse, I know the sacrifices nurses make to care for patients. We must do everything we can to support our nursing workforce, just as they support each and every one of us, and the FAAN Act is one way we can help achieve this commitment by invigorating nursing education.”

“Nurses and health care workers are heroes in our communities, and it’s crucial that the federal government makes the proper investments to support this workforce,” said Schiff. “I am proud to join Senator Merkley and my colleagues in introducing this legislation which would help strengthen our health care system and address the nursing shortage that our country is grappling with.”

“Nurses provide critically important care that keeps our families and communities healthy. As one of just three nurses serving in Congress, I’ve always been committed to advancing policies that strengthen our nursing workforce,” said Underwood. “By making a critical $1 billion investment in schools of nursing, my FAAN Act would grow the nursing workforce and expand and diversify the pipeline of nurses in underserved and rural areas. I look forward to working with Senators Merkley and Schiff to pass the FAAN Act and provide the investments we need to create a stronger health care system that addresses nursing shortages and meets the needs of our families and communities.”

“Federal support for nursing education is crucial to ensuring that our nursing workforce is prepared to meet the healthcare needs of all communities,” said Dr. Jean Giddens, Board Chair for the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. “The FAAN Act is a crucial step forward as we work to recruit and retain nursing students and faculty amid ongoing shortages, support our schools of nursing, facilitate academic-practice partnerships, and ensure the educational pathways remain strong as we work to serve America’s patients.”

“AACN applauds Senator Jeff Merkley and Congresswoman Lauren Underwood for reintroducing the FAAN Act, which would put forward a historic investment in nursing education, enabling today’s nursing students to become tomorrow’s frontline providers and faculty,” said Dr. Deborah Trautman, President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. “We look forward to working with federal legislators to advance and pass the FAAN Act this Congress.”

“The Future Advancement of Academic Nursing Act represents a bold and necessary investment in the future of our profession,” said ANA President Dr. Jennifer Mensik Kennedy, PhD, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN. “By strengthening nursing education and supporting the recruitment and retention of faculty, this legislation addresses one of the root causes of today’s workforce shortage. Nurses cannot meet the nation’s growing demand for care without the ability to educate and prepare the next generation. The American Nurses Association is proud to support this bill and urges Congress to act swiftly to secure the nursing workforce our patients and communities depend on. We thank Representative Underwood and Senator Merkley for their work on this and for representing our nation’s nurses in Congress.”

“The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) is proud to support the FAAN Act and the critical resources it would provide to schools of nursing to help increase the pipeline of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) and other nurses that our nation desperately needs,” said AANA President Jeffrey Molter, MSN, MBA, CRNA. “We thank Senator Merkley and Congresswoman Underwood for their leadership on this issue as we work to increase access to quality affordable healthcare that CRNAs and other nurses provide, particularly in rural and underserved communities. This legislation is an important part of making that happen.”

“Our country’s healthcare workforce is on the front line, taking care of our communities every day, but there are enormous challenges – extreme burnout, heavy patient loads, and a shortage of professionals in the pipeline who are willing to do this work, on top of the exodus of people leaving the job altogether. It’s well past time to invest in building a more robust system to educate, train and prepare nurses. Senator Merkley and Rep. Underwood’s bill will help to produce the next generation of nurses, particularly for communities that have been underserved, by expanding nursing education programs and hiring and training diverse professionals to join the healthcare profession. On behalf of the 250,000 nurses and healthcare professionals of the AFT, I am pleased to endorse the Future Advancement of Academic Nursing Act,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten.

“AACN is grateful to Senator Jeff Merkley and Representative Lauren Underwood for advocating for nurses and championing legislation to address nursing shortages by re-introducing the Future Advancement of Academic Nursing (FAAN) Act, which seeks to provide resources to increase the numbers of nursing students and faculty and modernize nursing education,” said Vicki Good, DNP, RN, CENP, CPPS, FAAN, Chief Clinical Officer, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses.

“AAHFN endorses the FAAN Act because it directly strengthens the nursing workforce, protects patient care quality, and advances the professions long-term stability,” said Heidi Roschinger, DNP, American Association of Heart Failure Nurses (AAHFN) Advocacy Chair.

“Nursing faculty are in significant shortage, so much so that about 65,000 applicants to nursing schools who were qualified to attend nursing school had to be turned away, in large part because there were not enough faculty to train them. This legislation will direct grants to go towards hiring nursing school faculty, modernizing technological and educational infrastructure, and enrolling and retaining students. The AHA thanks Senator Merkley and Rep. Underwood for their strong leadership to support nursing education,” said Lisa Kidder Hrobsky, American Hospital Association’s Senior Vice President for Advocacy and Political Affairs.

“Many emergency departments face staffing shortages, and the investment in nurses and nurse education the FAAN Act calls for would provide substantial help in addressing this crisis,” said Emergency Nurses Association President Ryan Oglesby, PhD, MHA, RN, CEN, CFRN, NEA-BC. “We need a comprehensive approach to increasing the capacity for more students in nursing schools, more faculty and more clinical education sites, which are crucial to ensuring our nurses are prepared with the specialized skills they need.”

“The Organization for Associate Degree Nursing (OADN) strongly supports the reintroduction of the Future Advancement of Academic Nursing (FAAN) Act (S.3770/H.R. 7266, 118th Congress), essential legislation that will strengthen the nursing profession and help ensure a robust, well-prepared healthcare workforce. OADN represents more than 1,100 community-based colleges offering the associate degree in nursing, serving over 40,000 students each year, with programs located across the United States, including in education deserts and rural regions where access to nursing education is especially critical. As the national voice for associate degree nursing education, OADN is a pivotal resource for community-based colleges that prepare the majority of the nation’s registered nurse workforce—contributing nearly half (43.5%) of all new RNs annually, as reported in the Journal of Nursing Regulation. The Future Advancement of Academic Nursing Act directly supports OADN’s 2025 to 2028 Strategic Direction, which focuses on Advocacy, Education, Leadership, and Community. The bill promotes meaningful federal investment in the nursing workforce, aligns with OADN’s advocacy priorities, and strengthens educational pathways that advance both students and emerging faculty. By supporting academic progression, building faculty capacity, strengthening clinical partnerships, and enhancing workforce sustainability, the FAAN Act contributes to a robust nursing ecosystem that benefits learners, educators, and the communities they serve. OADN is proud to endorse the reintroduced Future Advancement of Academic Nursing Act and urges swift consideration and passage of this legislation to help ensure a strong, well-prepared nursing workforce and improved health outcomes nationwide,” said Rick García, Ph.D., RN, CCM, FAAOHN, FAADN, FAAN, Chief Executive Officer, Organization for Associate Degree Nursing (OADN), and OADN Foundation.

“I fully endorse the Future Advancement of Academic Nursing (FAAN) Act. It strengthens the academic nursing infrastructure, enabling us to prepare a diverse, highly skilled nursing workforce. This legislation invests directly in the future of nursing and, ultimately, in the health of our nation,” said Teri Murray, PhD, RN, Dean Emerita, Trudy Busch Valentine School of Nursing, Saint Louis University.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-applauds-house-passage-of-bipartisan-bill-to-reauthorize-secure-rural-schools-program,Wyden Applauds House Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Reauthorize Secure Rural Schools Program,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,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., today applauded the House passage of his bipartisan legislation introduced with Senators Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., and James Risch, R-Idaho, to reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program and ensure rural, forested communities across Oregon and the country receive funding for roads, schools, law enforcement and other critical services.

“The Secure Rural Schools program has been a lifeline for rural communities across Oregon since I originally authored the program back in 2000,” Wyden said. “I’m relieved the House has finally done its job with the long-overdue passage of my bill to return the safety net for critical services to communities that need it the most. This is exactly why we need a permanent solution to get rural communities off the financial rollercoaster and ensure they have the resources they need to not only survive, but grow and thrive.”

“By passing our bipartisan bill, Congress has finally taken critical action to restore funding that is crucial to keeping schools and libraries open, maintaining roads, restoring watersheds, and ensuring there are police officers and firefighters to keep rural communities safe,” said Merkley. “Extending the SRS program ensures Oregon communities and local governments can maintain access to these important lifelines and resources, and I look forward to President Trump swiftly signing our bill into law.”

Wyden first authored the SRS program in 2000. Funding for the program lapsed in September 2023, and counties have not received payments since early 2024. Wyden’s bill to reauthorize the program had previously passed the Senate, but stalled in the House, delaying crucial funding for rural schools, law enforcement, and infrastructure projects.

Last week, 83 bipartisan, bicameral members, led by Wyden and Crapo, called on House leadership to take up the reauthorization bill for final passage.

""SRS is a lifeline for hundreds of rural school districts and counties across 43 states. These communities are proud to be home to our National Forests, but the reality is they suffer financially because these public lands are removed from the local tax rolls and off-limits for development. The National Forest Counties and Schools Coalition was organized more than 25 years ago to seek a remedy for this problem. SRS was that that remedy, and we are so appreciative that Senator Wyden has steadfastly led the effort in Congress for these many years to continue to support Rural America through honoring the federal government’s 1908 commitment by continuation of this vital SRS program."" said Lonnie Hunt, President of the National Forest Counties & Schools Coalition.

“I want to thank Senator Wyden for his relentless efforts to ensure Oregon receives this critical funding. Advocating on behalf of our citizens, I have traveled to Washington DC five times this year to work with Senator Wyden and many other members of Congress to achieve this victory. Restoration of this funding ensures Klamath County’s roads will continue to be patrolled through the Sheriff’s office for the next two years keeping the citizens of Klamath County safe.” said Derrick DeGroot, Klamath County Commissioner.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-slam-trump-administration-over-plans-to-slash-social-security-field-office-visits,"Wyden, Colleagues Slam Trump Administration Over Plans to Slash Social Security Field Office Visits",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Lawmakers raise alarm about whether Trump administration is seeking to “quietly kill field offices,” implement backdoor benefits cuts

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he is joining his Senate colleagues in pressing the head of Social Security on reports about a new goal of slashing nearly 15 million field office visits every year in Oregon and nationwide.

“We are concerned that these efforts are in fact part of a plan to ‘quietly kill[] field offices,’ implementing a back-door cut in benefits by making it harder for Americans to access the Social Security customer services they need,” the senators wrote in their letter to Social Security Administration (SSA) Commissioner Frank Bisignano. “Once again, you seem to have adopted a slash-first, think-later approach to ""modernizing"" SSA, and beneficiaries will pay the price.”

The Trump administration has relentlessly attacked Social Security. Under Bisignano, the administration has made it harder for Americans to get their benefits, including implementing burdensome in-person and bug-prone identification processes that force millions of Americans to visit field offices each year. The administration is also slashing SSA’s workforce by around 6,000 people and closing regional offices. Instead of staffing up to meet these needs, SSA’s field office capacity has significantly declined. Beneficiaries are being forced to wait hours to get help, only to be told they must call to schedule an appointment. Recent reports now indicate SSA plans to slash field office visitors in half, making it even harder for seniors and people with disabilities to access their earned benefits.

Wyden and his colleagues requested critical details by January 6, 2026 on SSA’s plans to reduce the number of field office visits, including which services SSA will be deployed for online users and individuals calling the National 1-800 number, whether beneficiaries will receive assistance in field offices without an appointment, what the current average wait time is to schedule a field office appointment, among other pressing questions.

In addition to Wyden, the letter was led by U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Bernie Sanders, I-V.t.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/following-republican-hemp-ban-wyden-merkley-reintroduce-bill-to-keep-hemp-on-market-with-strong-consumer-protections/,"Following Republican Hemp Ban, Wyden, Merkley Reintroduce Bill to Keep Hemp on Market with Strong Consumer Protections",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today reintroduced legislation that would return hemp to the market and create national safety standards for hemp-derived products, keep these products out of the hands of children, and ban unsafe, untested hemp products.

Reintroduction of the Cannabinoid Safety and Regulation Act (CSRA) follows passage of last month’s government funding bill containing a provision to outlaw hemp products nationwide. Wyden has long pressed for common-sense consumer regulations and protections instead of a one-size-fits-all approach that does nothing to protect kids or consumers from unsafe or untested hemp products.

“There’s no question that more needs to be done to protect kids and consumers from unsafe, untested hemp products,” Wyden said. “We learned from the failed war on drugs that a one-size-fits all approach banning hemp products from the market outright does nothing to protect kids and consumers, and will be a gut-punch to thousands of jobs and small businesses across the country. My legislation takes the thoughtful and measured approach necessary to implement strong consumer protection regulations while fostering growth and innovation in this growing industry.”

“A blanket ban on hemp harms research and the entire industry. That’s why I spearheaded a bipartisan effort to remove such a ban from recently becoming law,” said Merkley. “Instead, the FDA must establish clear, commonsense guidelines—as it does for other foods, drinks, and products—to protect the health of all Americans and prevent children from purchasing these hemp products.”

The bill would mandate a minimum age of 21 to buy and set a serving size limit for intoxicating content in hemp-derived products where states do not have limits in place. The legislation would require that all hemp-derived products be tested for safety and manufactured using clean and safe processes. The CSRA would require truth in labeling, and would require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to recall or ban any hemp-derived products that contain too much THC, dangerous chemicals, byproducts or additives.

Following the legalization of hemp production and hemp-derived consumer products under the 2018 Farm Bill, the FDA failed repeatedly to regulate these products despite pressure from Wyden and other members of the Senate to do so. Wyden has long maintained that the FDA must do its part in monitoring the industry.

While individual states have tried to regulate testing, labeling and processing of hemp products, there is still no national health and safety standard for producers. This legislation would explicitly allow states to prohibit, limit or otherwise regulate hemp-derived products beyond the bill’s provisions.

The bill is endorsed by the U.S. Hemp Roundtable and the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America.

“The hemp industry stands firmly behind Senator Wyden’s effort to replace confusion with clarity and prohibition with practical regulation,” said Jonathan Miller, General Counsel of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable. “From the beginning, Senator Wyden has been one of hemp’s greatest champions, and this legislation reflects his commitment to responsible reform. It takes important steps to protect consumers, ensure products are safe and kept out of the hands of children, while preserving access to the hemp-derived products that millions of Americans rely on for their health and wellness. We look forward to working with Senator Wyden to improve upon this bill and secure its passage, creating a fair and lasting framework for this vital American industry.”

“The CSRA would take steps to establish an effective framework to regulate the hemp market by requiring products to be tested and properly labeled and outlawing synthetic derived products. This legislation would allow states to continue implementing their own standards while setting important baseline public safety standards and ensuring that these products are not readily available to children. We look forward to working with Senator Wyden to craft a comprehensive regulatory solution for intoxicating hemp products,” said Dawson Hobbs, Executive Vice President of Government Affairs for the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America.

“Hemp beverages are part of a major cultural shift toward healthier alternatives, and consumer preference is undeniable. However, we need a federal framework that treats these products with the same seriousness as alcohol. Responsible brands want clear guardrails: strict 21+ access, certified lab testing, uniform serving sizes, and a ban on synthetics. These standards will protect public health and allow legitimate operators to build a safe, long-term industry alongside beer and wine distributors,” said Ryan Evans, Co-Founder & CEO, Shift Naturals

“At Ablis, we’ve spent more than a decade building hemp beverages from the ground up, and we’ve watched this once-niche category grow into a major American industry supporting thousands of jobs and small businesses. To secure the future of hemp beverages, we need a federal framework that treats these products with the same seriousness and structure long established for alcohol. These aren’t burdens, they are essential standards that protect public health while safeguarding the businesses, employees, and farmers who helped build this all-American industry. With clear rules in place, legitimate operators can continue to grow alongside beer and wine distributors and ensure this category thrives for decades to come.” said Max Bendis, Co-Founder, Albis Functional Infusions.

“The Hemp Beverage Alliance (HBA)applauds Senator Wyden for championing sensible regulations that keep products away from children, provide robust product testing and transparent packaging information, and provide a pathway for the hemp beverage industry to continue to thrive. Since our founding in 2023, the HBA has advocated for testing, proper labeling, sensible THC milligram levels, and age-gating of products. We look forward to working with Senator Wyden and other legislators to promote this legislation and ensure a thriving hemp beverage category in 2026 and beyond.” said Christopher Lackner, President of the Hemp Beverage Alliance.

Text of the bill is here.

A one-page summary of the bill is here. A section-by-section breakdown of the bill is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/senate-republicans-block-merkleys-bill-to-prevent-war-with-venezuela/,Senate Republicans Block Merkley’s Bill to Prevent War with Venezuela,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley released the following statement after Senate Republicans blocked consideration of his Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025, which would block federal funds from being used for military actions in Venezuela:

“As the Constitution so clearly says, Congress has the power to declare war—not the President. We must not stand by while Donald Trump prepares to wage war without authorization. Yet, Senate Republicans once again chose to rubber-stamp Trump’s agenda, trampling our Constitution in the process.

“Certainly, Nicolás Maduro is a brutal dictator, but that does not give Trump a blank check for launching a war. Congress must reassert its constitutional responsibility. I’ll keep fighting for this body to exercise its authority over the decision to go to war, regardless of who is in the White House.”

On Wednesday, Merkley took to the Senate Floor in an attempt to pass his Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025, legislation he leads with Virginia’s U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, that would prohibit the use of federal funds for any use of military force in or against Venezuela without explicit Congressional authorization. Merkley’s bill does not prevent the United States from acting to defend itself or its citizens from an armed attack or threat of an imminent armed attack, pursue lawful counternarcotics operations, or provide humanitarian assistance to the Venezuelan people.

The Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025 is also co-sponsored by Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Andy Kim (D-NJ).

Full text of the Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025 can be found by clicking here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/senators-blunt-rochester-merkley-warnock-introduce-bill-to-repair-infrastructure-bridge-communities/,"Senators Blunt Rochester, Merkley, Warnock Introduce Bill to Repair Infrastructure, Bridge Communities",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) today introduced the Restoring Essential Public Access and Improving Resilient (REPAIR) Infrastructure Program Act. The bill would reauthorize and expand the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Reconnecting Communities Program as the REPAIR Infrastructure Program, building on the groundwork laid by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to bridge communities separated by ill-conceived transportation and infrastructure barriers. This would ensure more neighborhoods are vibrant and safe, contributing to healthier lives and creating more opportunities for American families. Senators Blunt Rochester, Merkley, and Warnock all championed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021. This bill is led in the House by U.S. Representatives Pat Ryan (D-N.Y.-18) and Shomari Figures (D-Ala.-2).

“When my colleagues and I were shaping what would become the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021, I made sure it included significant funding for communities to correct historic injustices that resulted from past infrastructure policies. Now, the time has come to reauthorize and expand that program,” said Senator Blunt Rochester, a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “Over the last four years, the Reconnecting Communities Program has proven successful, including critical work done in Delaware. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance the REPAIR Infrastructure Act and invest more of this critical funding into communities across our nation.”

“The federal government must uphold its commitment to righting the historical wrongs associated with infrastructure projects in our communities, like Portland’s I-5 Rose Quarter project,” said Senator Merkley, a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “The Trump Administration has spent the last year relentlessly undermining once-in-a-generation investments and critical federal funding for infrastructure projects. I’ll keep fighting to protect the billions of dollars I have helped secure for Oregon and ensure that all communities across the nation have an opportunity to thrive.”

“Physical mobility and economic mobility are inextricably linked,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “Ensuring Georgians aren’t cut off from accessing jobs and economic opportunity also helps restore the cultural fabric of communities divided by legacy infrastructure. I’m proud to partner with my colleagues on this important legislation and look forward to better connected communities across our state.”

“Hudson Valley families and commuters deserve cohesive, safe neighborhoods, connected to good schools, high-paying jobs, and local businesses. That’s exactly what my bill does,” said Congressman Ryan. “Whether it’s improving the safety of a dangerous highway crossing, like the 9-W in Kingston, working to prevent pedestrian and cyclist deaths at roadway intersections, or making access to our community spaces easier for everyone, the REPAIR Infrastructure Act is going to deliver the safer, more accessible Hudson Valley all of our families deserve.”

“As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, it is important to me that we prioritize making investments in enhancing and modernizing transportation infrastructure in our communities,” said Congressman Figures. “The Trump Administration recently cancelled a 36.6 million dollar Reconnecting Communities Grant in Montgomery. I am committed to seeing that funding restored, and I’m proud to join my Democratic colleagues in the Senate to make sure other communities in Alabama have the opportunity to access this same funding.”

“We applaud Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, Senator Jeff Merkley, Senator Raphael Warnock, and Representative Pat Ryan for stepping up to continue the work of the Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program to heal historic harms caused by divisive infrastructure,” said Beth Osborne, President and CEO of Smart Growth America. “The work of reconnecting communities has brought significant economic and community benefits to the places that have pursued it. By providing additional funding and greater flexibility, the REPAIR Infrastructure Act would allow more communities, from our most rural towns to urban centers, to build transportation systems that better serve the people who live there. Moreover, this legislation is crucial to help set the tone in Congress for what the upcoming surface reauthorization must prioritize: safety, connectivity, and rethinking how, why, and for whom we build transportation infrastructure.”

“We applaud Senator Blunt Rochester’s focus on connecting our communities divided by transportation infrastructure and her commitment to establishing safe walking and biking routes as essential to make American communities work better for everyone,” said Kevin Mills, Sr., Vice President of Policy at Rails to Trails Conservancy.

Between fiscal years 2022 and 2024, there was an average of $4.6 billion in unmet funding requests for the Reconnecting Communities Program. During the same period, there were nearly 1,500 applications from communities in all 50 states for projects eligible under the REPAIR Infrastructure Act, demonstrating a desire for this funding across the nation.

Ultimately, DOT has funded 257 projects in 47 states. Those projects have helped communities redesign streets, spur economic development, address outdated highways, improve multimodal access, and enhance transit options.

The REPAIR Infrastructure Act would:

Reauthorize the REPAIR Infrastructure program out of the Highway Trust Fund at $3B per fiscal year from 2027 through 2031.

Codify language to ensure REPAIR Infrastructure projects promote economic development, increase access to daily destinations, prioritize community involvement, and prevent displacement.

Add explicit eligibility for REPAIR Infrastructure projects to existing highway formula programs.

The REPAIR Infrastructure Act is endorsed by Smart Growth America, the National League of Cities, the American Society of Landscape Architects, America Walks, the Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU), the Environmental Law & Policy Center, the League of American Bicyclists, the Living Streets Alliance, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), the Rails to Trails Conservancy, Safe Routes Partnership, the Union of Concerned Scientists, and a national coalition of 74 additional organizations.

A one pager on the bill is available here. A section-by-section summary is here. Full text is available here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/van-hollen-merkley-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-protect-aid-workers-in-conflict-zones/,"Van Hollen, Merkley, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Protect Aid Workers in Conflict Zones",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, on Human Rights Day, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) introduced legislation to protect humanitarian aid workers operating in conflict zones. The lawmakers’ legislation, the Commitment to Aid Workers Act, would strengthen U.S. efforts to safeguard those who risk their lives to deliver humanitarian assistance. The bill creates new oversight and enforcement mechanisms to hold foreign militaries accountable for actions that endanger humanitarian workers as they deliver American aid. U.S. Representative Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) has previously introduced companion legislation in the House.

“Humanitarian workers do some of the most vital but dangerous jobs in the world as they come to the aid of civilians caught in the middle of armed conflict. After two extremely deadly years for these workers, we must do more to protect them. This bill will employ U.S. leverage to help ensure the safety of humanitarian workers as they conduct their lifesaving missions,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“When conflict or disaster strikes, humanitarian aid workers are the first line to deliver food, water, medicine, and shelter,” said Senator Merkley. “Our top priority must be to support and protect those who serve on the frontlines of crisis, and the Commitment to Aid Workers Act does just that.”

“Humanitarian aid workers put their lives on the line to deliver food, water, medicine, and shelter to civilians caught in the crossfire of conflict. Their work is guided by a basic principle: that even in war, human dignity must be preserved,” Representative Pingree said. “Tragically, we are seeing aid workers targeted like never before. This year, 326 have been killed—and last year was the deadliest on record, with over 370 killed across the globe. These are attacks on the very foundation of humanitarian law. The United States cannot stand by while those delivering life-saving assistance are treated as collateral damage. The Commitment to Aid Workers Act ensures accountability, advocacy, and limits U.S. military assistance to countries found to be targeting aid workers deliberately. We must support those who serve on the frontlines of humanitarian crises.”

The Commitment to Aid Workers Act:

Establishes a Special Envoy to investigate deaths, injuries, or detentions of aid workers; advocate for improved interagency and international coordination; promote best practices; and submit annual reports to Congress on security risks and UN coordination effectiveness.

Strengthens accountability by amending the Foreign Assistance Act to bar military aid and arms sales subject to the Arms Export Control Act to countries that repeatedly target aid workers and obstruct U.S. inquiries, with assistance resuming only after certified safeguards are in place.

Creates an Aid Worker Independent Inquiry Group, led by the Special Envoy, to investigate any aid worker death during U.S.-supported missions and report to Congress on circumstances, any use of U.S.-origin munitions, and legal assessments under U.S. and international law.

Text of the Commitment to Aid Workers Act can be viewed here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-extend-tax-relief-for-wildfire-victims,"Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Extend Tax Relief for Wildfire Victims",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,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 has joined Senate colleagues to introduce legislation that would permanently ensure wildfire survivors in Oregon and nationwide are not taxed on compensation they receive for losses and damages suffered during a wildfire.

“The last thing Oregonians need when they’re rebuilding after a wildfire is to get clobbered by a big tax bill on their financial settlements,” Wyden said. “This bill will make it possible for wildfire survivors to use every settlement dollar they receive to repair their homes and businesses. It’s also a smart way to pump more resources back into devastated communities that need all the help they can get. My colleagues and I are going to fight to get this passed as soon as possible, because making this tax relief permanent is a no-brainer.”

The Protect Innocent Victims of Taxation After Fire Extension Act would extend and make permanent the protections signed into law last year within the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act, which excluded wildfire-related settlement payments from federal income tax calculations. This includes payments that cover living expenses, lost wages, or compensation for injury, death, or emotional distress.

However, this exclusion is set to expire at the end of 2025. Failure to extend this provision means any wildfire-related settlement payments beginning in 2026 will again be subject to federal income tax obligations. More and more states have qualifying settlements or active litigation related to wildfires. This bill would allow wildfire survivors to put the full amount of their settlement money toward recovering from devastating losses.

Additionally, the bill would allow victims to claim the exemption in the year they receive payments rather than to amend prior tax returns for a refund.

The bill was led by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla, D-Calif. In addition to Wyden, the bipartisan bill was also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., and Tim Sheehy, R-Mont. The bill was led in the House by U.S. Representatives Mike Thompson, D-Calif., and Doug LaMalfa, R-Calif.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-protect-airline-passengers-from-flight-cancellation-and-delay-fees,"Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect Airline Passengers from Flight Cancellation and Delay Fees",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Legislation follows the Trump administration’s move to roll back a Biden-era rule that protected consumers and held airlines accountable

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he has joined colleagues in introducing legislation that would protect travelers by requiring airlines to provide cash compensation and free rebooking for passengers facing significant delays or cancellations caused by the airline.

Introduction of the Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act follows the decision by the Trump administration earlier this year to rescind a Biden-era rule that protected travelers against these fees and costs. The legislation would also direct the federal Department of Transportation to mandate airlines reimburse passengers for hotels, meals, and transportation to lodging incurred by canceled or delayed flights.

“The biggest winners under Donald Trump’s presidency are corporations and the ultra-rich, and airlines are no exception,” Wyden said. “On top of his costly government shutdown that left travelers hamstrung and airports woefully understaffed by safety and air traffic controllers, now Trump is going out of his way to make flying more expensive for travelers. This legislation would restore much-needed consumer protections and financial relief during one of the busiest holiday travel seasons on record.”

The bill was introduced by Senators Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., and Edward J. Markey, D-Mass. In addition to Wyden, the bill is also cosponsored by Senators Angela Alsobrooks, D-Md., Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., John Fetterman, D-Pa., Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Jack Reed, D-R.I., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Tina Smith, D-Minn., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Peter Welch, D-Vt., and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.

The legislation would require the Transportation Department to issue regulations that would:

Establish an Aviation Rulemaking Committee that includes consumer protection groups to develop recommendations to support consumers experiencing significant flight disruptions;

Require the Aviation Rulemaking Committee to develop recommendations for passenger compensation in alignment with foreign standards;

Set a baseline standard of compensation that is at least $300 for a delay of more than three hours but less than six hours, and at least $600 for a delay of six hours or more;

Undertake a rulemaking to implement the Aviation Rulemaking Committee recommendations within 90 days after the report is submitted; and

Establish a stricter interim final rule that would go into effect 18 months after the bill is enacted.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-objects-to-bill-that-would-threaten-encryption-calls-for-new-resources-to-crack-down-on-predators-online,"Wyden Objects to Bill That Would Threaten Encryption, Calls for New Resources to Crack Down on Predators Online",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"As prepared for delivery

I don’t often disagree with my colleague from Illinois, and I very much share the stated goals of the STOP CSAM Act. Child sexual abuse material is a toxic plague on the internet. There are real victims who need support, and criminals who need to be hunted down and locked up. I don’t take a backseat to anyone when it comes to helping kids and punishing predators.

Last Congress, Senator Durbin and I compromised on a different version of this bill and agreed to let that version pass by unanimous consent. Let me say that again, last Congress we reached agreement on a version of this bill that could have passed unanimously. Today, the sponsors have chosen to abandon those negotiations and instead seek to advance a dangerous bill that would make internet users unsafe.

This bill would weaken the single strongest technology protecting children and families online - strong encryption. It will make it easier to punish sites that use encryption to secure private conversations and personal devices. While STOP CSAM’s sponsors claim that their bill does not target encryption, the bill explicitly allows courts to punish companies that offer strong encryption. It also would encourage scanning of content on users’ phones or computers, before information is sent over the internet, which has the same consequences as breaking encryption.

Weakening encryption and other security technologies is the single biggest gift you could give to the predators and creeps who want to stalk and spy on children. Sexual predators will have a far easier time stealing and extorting photographs of children, tracking their phones and spying on their private messages once encryption is breached. Doing so threatens the privacy and security of every single law-abiding American.

Let’s look at who supports this bill. Big Tech - Google and X - have endorsed it. It’s the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights and the American Civil Liberties Union who oppose it.

This is really about who you’re for. I’m here for women who depend on encryption to seek reproductive healthcare information. I’m here for journalists reporting on sensitive stories in places where their messages could be intercepted and used against them. I’m here for children and teenagers seeking information about immigration laws as Trump continues his brutal crackdown.

The key to better protecting kids online is to do what IS effective, not what only SOUNDS effective.

Congress should focus our energy on giving law enforcement officials the tools they need to find and prosecute criminals responsible for exploiting children and spreading vile abuse materials online, and to help prevent children from becoming victims in the first place.

I remain open to revisiting conversations with this bill’s sponsors to get back to a version that doesn’t make the Internet less safe. We found a compromise in the last Congress, and I’m ready to find one again.

I also urge members to support my bipartisan Invest in Child Safety Act, which I will shortly be reintroducing. The bill would direct $5 billion in mandatory funding to do three things:

1. Give law enforcement agencies the tools and personnel they need to catch the predators who are creating and spreading CSAM;

2. Fund community based programs to prevent at-risk kids from becoming victims in the first place and

3. Invest in programs to support survivors of abuse.

Any legislation that doesn’t include these pieces is missing the point.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-reintroduces-bill-to-keep-hemp-on-the-market-with-strong-consumer-protections,Wyden Reintroduces Bill to Keep Hemp on the Market with Strong Consumer Protections,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,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., today reintroduced legislation that would return hemp to the market and create national safety standards for hemp-derived products, keep these products out of the hands of children, and ban unsafe, untested hemp products.

Reintroduction of the Cannabinoid Safety and Regulation Act (CSRA) follows passage of last month’s government funding bill containing a provision to outlaw hemp products nationwide. Wyden has long pressed for common-sense consumer regulations and protections instead of a one-size-fits-all approach that does nothing to protect kids or consumers from unsafe or untested hemp products.

“There’s no question that more needs to be done to protect kids and consumers from unsafe, untested hemp products,” Wyden said. “We learned from the failed war on drugs that a one-size-fits all approach banning hemp products from the market outright does nothing to protect kids and consumers, and will be a gut-punch to thousands of jobs and small businesses across the country. My legislation takes the thoughtful and measured approach necessary to implement strong consumer protection regulations while fostering growth and innovation in this growing industry.”

The bill would mandate a minimum age of 21 to buy and set a serving size limit for intoxicating content in hemp-derived products where states do not have limits in place. The legislation would require that all hemp-derived products be tested for safety and manufactured using clean and safe processes. The CSRA would require truth in labeling, and would require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to recall or ban any hemp-derived products that contain too much THC, dangerous chemicals, byproducts or additives.

Following the legalization of hemp production and hemp-derived consumer products under the 2018 Farm Bill, the FDA failed repeatedly to regulate these products despite pressure from Wyden and other members of the Senate to do so. Wyden has long maintained that the FDA must do its part in monitoring the industry.

While individual states have tried to regulate testing, labeling and processing of hemp products, there is still no national health and safety standard for producers. This legislation would explicitly allow states to prohibit, limit or otherwise regulate hemp-derived products beyond the bill’s provisions.

The bill is co-sponsored by U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Ore.

Statements of support for the Cannabinoid Safety and Regulation Act:

“The hemp industry stands firmly behind Senator Wyden’s effort to replace confusion with clarity and prohibition with practical regulation. From the beginning, Senator Wyden has been one of hemp’s greatest champions, and this legislation reflects his commitment to responsible reform. It takes important steps to protect consumers, ensure products are safe and kept out of the hands of children, while preserving access to the hemp-derived products that millions of Americans rely on for their health and wellness. We look forward to working with Senator Wyden to improve upon this bill and secure its passage, creating a fair and lasting framework for this vital American industry,” said Jonathan Miller, General Counsel of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable.

“The CSRA would take steps to establish an effective framework to regulate the hemp market by requiring products to be tested and properly labeled and outlawing synthetic derived products. This legislation would allow states to continue implementing their own standards while setting important baseline public safety standards and ensuring that these products are not readily available to children. We look forward to working with Senator Wyden to craft a comprehensive regulatory solution for intoxicating hemp products,” said Dawson Hobbs, Executive Vice President of Government Affairs for the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America.

“Hemp beverages are part of a major cultural shift toward healthier alternatives, and consumer preference is undeniable. However, we need a federal framework that treats these products with the same seriousness as alcohol. Responsible brands want clear guardrails: strict 21+ access, certified lab testing, uniform serving sizes, and a ban on synthetics. These standards will protect public health and allow legitimate operators to build a safe, long-term industry alongside beer and wine distributors,” said Ryan Evans, Co-Founder and CEO of Shift Naturals

“At Ablis, we’ve spent more than a decade building hemp beverages from the ground up, and we’ve watched this once-niche category grow into a major American industry supporting thousands of jobs and small businesses. To secure the future of hemp beverages, we need a federal framework that treats these products with the same seriousness and structure long established for alcohol. These aren’t burdens, they are essential standards that protect public health while safeguarding the businesses, employees, and farmers who helped build this all-American industry. With clear rules in place, legitimate operators can continue to grow alongside beer and wine distributors and ensure this category thrives for decades to come,” said Max Bendis, Co-Founder of Albis Functional Infusions.

“The Hemp Beverage Alliance (HBA)applauds Senator Wyden for championing sensible regulations that keep products away from children, provide robust product testing and transparent packaging information, and provide a pathway for the hemp beverage industry to continue to thrive. Since our founding in 2023, the HBA has advocated for testing, proper labeling, sensible THC milligram levels, and age-gating of products. We look forward to working with Senator Wyden and other legislators to promote this legislation and ensure a thriving hemp beverage category in 2026 and beyond,” said Christopher Lackner, President of the Hemp Beverage Alliance.

Text of the bill is here.

A one-page summary of the bill is here. A section-by-section breakdown of the bill is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-cortez-masto-lead-new-bill-to-block-donald-trump-from-putting-his-face-on-dollar-coin/,"Merkley, Cortez Masto Lead New Bill to Block Donald Trump from Putting His Face on Dollar Coin",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and Nevada’s U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto introduced new legislation to prevent any living or sitting U.S. President from being featured on any U.S. currency.

The Change Corruption Act would ensure President Trump cannot be featured on an upcoming one-dollar coin in celebration of the Semiquincentennial, America’s 250th birthday. Public reporting and draft designs suggest the U.S. Mint is considering a dollar coin featuring Trump, despite the historical precedent of America not featuring a living or sitting President on a circulating coin. A final decision on the design could come as soon as this week.

“President Trump’s self-celebrating maneuvers are authoritarian actions worthy of dictators like North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, not the United States of America,” said Merkley. “We must reject his efforts to dismantle our ‘We, The People’ republic and replace it with a strongman state by demanding strong accountability to prevent further abuse of taxpayer dollars. As we look ahead to America’s 250th birthday, I’ll keep fighting back against Trump’s corruption and partisan propaganda.”

“While monarchs put their faces on coins, America has never had and never will have a king,” said Cortez Masto. “Our legislation would codify this country’s long-standing tradition of not putting living Presidents on American coins. Congress must pass it without delay.”

The Change Corruption Act is also co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).

“Donald Trump will stop at nothing to steal the spotlight, and that includes putting an image of himself on a U.S. coin,” said Wyden. “While kings insist on immortalizing their image on shiny objects, real leaders care about focusing on the issues of today. I’m proud to support this bill that ensures our country does not worship its leaders like kings.”

“President Trump seeks to disobey the law and betray our American values by having his portrait minted on U.S. currency,” said Blumenthal. “A long-standing tradition and rejection of monarchy, our nation has never allowed the image of a living or sitting president to be used on circulating currency. Our Change Corruption Act reaffirms this tradition and prohibits currency from being used to honor or promote the current President of the United States.”

Previously, Merkley and Cortez Masto led seven Senate Democrats—including Wyden—in a letter to U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent calling on him to reject the proposed designs for the Semiquincentennial dollar coin featuring the likeness of President Trump.

Merkley has been a long-time leader in the push to end public corruption, including leading a bipartisan bill that would prevent lawmakers from trading stocks and legislation to crack down on cryptocurrency-related corruption by elected officials at the highest levels of the federal government. He has also championed efforts to crack down on dark money in politics.

Full text of the Change Corruption Act can be found by clicking here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/wyden-merkley-applaud-house-passage-of-bipartisan-bill-to-reauthorize-secure-rural-schools-program/,"Wyden, Merkley Applaud House Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Reauthorize Secure Rural Schools Program",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today applauded the House passage of his bipartisan legislation introduced with Senators Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., and James Risch, R-Idaho, to reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program and ensure rural, forested communities across Oregon and the country receive funding for roads, schools, law enforcement and other critical services.

“The Secure Rural Schools program has been a lifeline for rural communities across Oregon since I originally authored the program back in 2000,” Wyden said. “I’m relieved the House has finally done its job with the long-overdue passage of my bill to return the safety net for critical services to communities that need it the most. This is exactly why we need a permanent solution to get rural communities off the financial rollercoaster and ensure they have the resources they need to not only survive, but grow and thrive.”

“By passing our bipartisan bill, Congress has finally taken critical action to restore funding that is crucial to keeping schools and libraries open, maintaining roads, restoring watersheds, and ensuring there are police officers and firefighters to keep rural communities safe,” said Merkley. “Extending the SRS program ensures Oregon communities and local governments can maintain access to these important lifelines and resources, and I look forward to President Trump swiftly signing our bill into law.”

Wyden first authored the SRS program in 2000. Funding for the program lapsed in September 2023, and counties have not received payments since early 2024. Wyden’s bill to reauthorize the program had previously passed the Senate, but stalled in the House, delaying crucial funding for rural schools, law enforcement, and infrastructure projects.

Last week, 83 bipartisan, bicameral members, led by Wyden and Crapo, called on House leadership to take up the reauthorization bill for final passage.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/wyden-merkley-introduce-bill-to-stop-trump-administration-replacing-immigration-judges-with-inexperienced-attorneys/,"Wyden, Merkley Introduce Bill to Stop Trump Administration Replacing Immigration Judges with Inexperienced Attorneys",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they are joining their Senate colleagues in introducing legislation that would prevent Donald Trump from abusing loopholes to appoint inexperienced attorneys as temporary immigration judges.

The Temporary Immigration Judge Integrity Act aims to close loopholes the Trump administration has been using to short-circuit due process and accelerate its mass deportation agenda. This bill follows Trump weaponizing U.S. immigration courts and torching due process rights by replacing more than 100 immigration judges with up to 600 military lawyers.

“Trump is weaponizing our immigration courts and torching due process rights by replacing experienced judges with unqualified lawyers who will rubberstamp his mass deportation agenda,” Wyden said. “Congress needs to ensure that judges hearing these critical and complex cases have the knowledge to give immigrants the fair hearings that they deserve.”

“We can’t stand idly by as an authoritarian strongman tramples on due process,” Merkley said. “Trump is replacing qualified judges with inexperienced lackeys who will carry out his cruel immigration agenda without question. Congress needs to act swiftly to defend the rule of law and make sure that the judges serving on our immigration courts are experienced, qualified, and fair.”

The bill would:

Cap temporary immigration judge appointments at four consecutive six-month terms: 2-year maximum service limit with at least a 3-year break in between services.

Prevent military attorneys and Judge Advocate Generals from being appointed as temporary immigration judges.

Authorize appointments of attorneys at the Department of Justice who meet the eligibility requirements.

Establish basic training requirements.

The bill is endorsed by the American Civil Liberties Union, American Immigration Council, American Immigration Lawyers Association, Brennan Center for Justice, and the National Association of Immigration Judges.

The bill was led by U.S. Senator Adam Schiff, D-Calif. In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the bill was co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin, D-Ill., Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawai’i, Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Chris Murphy, D-Conn., Patty Murray, D-Wash., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Peter Welch, D-Vt.

Full text of the legislation is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-budd-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-family-farmers-grow-agritourism,"Wyden, Budd Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Family Farmers, Grow Agritourism",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,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 Ted Budd, R-N.C., today introduced bipartisan legislation to support the economic development and growth of agritourism businesses nationwide by increasing federal resources like loans, grants, broadband, and educational programs to small family farmers.

“Small family farmers are the backbone of our country’s agricultural sector,” Wyden said. “There’s no question that the federal government needs to step up and support family farmers at a time when most are operating on a shoestring budget and barely making ends meet. Our bipartisan legislation would give family farmers much-needed resources to not only survive, but grow and thrive.”

“Agritourism is essential to keeping working farms afloat, especially in the aftermath of natural disasters. Without it, many of North Carolina’s farms would have been forced to cease operations following Hurricane Helene. I’m proud to lead this legislation alongside Senator Wyden to streamline federal resources for North Carolina’s booming agritourism industry,” Budd said.

Wyden and Budd’s Accelerating the Growth of Rural Innovation and Tourism Opportunities to Uphold Rural Industries and Sustainable Marketplaces (AGRITOURISM) Act would support local, family-owned businesses by designating a senior official at the U.S. Department of Agriculture as the federal agritourism advisor. This role would coordinate with stakeholders and other federal agencies to promote the growth of family-owned farms and advise the Secretary of Agriculture on this essential industry.

Agritourism is one of the fastest growing industries that serves as a critical lifeline for rural economies nationwide by allowing family farms to offer outdoor recreational services like beer tasting, berry picking, seasonal festivities, bed-and-breakfast accommodations, and event venues.

Oregon State University found that each Oregon county has at least one farm participating in agritourism. In North Carolina alone, agritourism is nearly a $1 billion industry.

In addition to Wyden and Budd, the AGRITOURISM Act is cosponsored by Senators Peter Welch, D-Vt., ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., Thom Tillis, R-N.C., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., Patty Murray, D-Wash., Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Jim Justice, R-W.Va., and Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill. House companion legislation was also introduced by Representatives Suhas Subramanyam, D-Va., and Dan Newhouse, R-Wash.

The AGRITOURISM Act is also endorsed by:

“The Brewers Association supports the AGRITOURISM Act, which recognizes craft breweries as vital contributors to America’s agricultural and rural tourism economies. This legislation will strengthen local supply chains, expand opportunities for small and independent brewers, and help communities thrive,” wrote Bart Watson, President and CEO of the Brewers Association.

”We applaud Sen. Wyden, a longtime and critical advocate for our industry, for the introduction of the AGRITOURISM Act! Our craft distilling industry, a vibrant sector within the broader US agricultural industry, relies heavily on local farmers for spirit production. Likewise, our community of distilleries - whose numbers are sadly in decline - rely heavily on agritourism as an important revenue stream. Particularly in rural areas, this tourism in turn stimulates these local economies while also creating local jobs,” wrote Margie Lehrman, CEO of the American Craft Spirits Association.

“Agritourism is essential to the survival of the wine industry and no one knows this better than Senator Wyden. Wineries need visitors to survive, and we are thrilled that Senator Wyden is leading this bill. He understands what our industry needs and continues to be a steadfast supporter of not only the Oregon wine industry, but the entire American industry,” wrote Michael Kaiser, Executive Vice President of WineAmerica.

The text of the bill is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-applaud-house-passage-of-bipartisan-bill-to-reauthorize-secure-rural-schools-program,"Wyden, Merkley Applaud House Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Reauthorize Secure Rural Schools Program",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,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., today applauded the House passage of his bipartisan legislation introduced with Senators Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., and James Risch, R-Idaho, to reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program and ensure rural, forested communities across Oregon and the country receive funding for roads, schools, law enforcement and other critical services.

“The Secure Rural Schools program has been a lifeline for rural communities across Oregon since I originally authored the program back in 2000,” Wyden said. “I’m relieved the House has finally done its job with the long-overdue passage of my bill to return the safety net for critical services to communities that need it the most. This is exactly why we need a permanent solution to get rural communities off the financial rollercoaster and ensure they have the resources they need to not only survive, but grow and thrive.”

“By passing our bipartisan bill, Congress has finally taken critical action to restore funding that is crucial to keeping schools and libraries open, maintaining roads, restoring watersheds, and ensuring there are police officers and firefighters to keep rural communities safe,” said Merkley. “Extending the SRS program ensures Oregon communities and local governments can maintain access to these important lifelines and resources, and I look forward to President Trump swiftly signing our bill into law.”

Wyden first authored the SRS program in 2000. Funding for the program lapsed in September 2023, and counties have not received payments since early 2024. Wyden’s bill to reauthorize the program had previously passed the Senate, but stalled in the House, delaying crucial funding for rural schools, law enforcement, and infrastructure projects.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-introduce-bill-to-stop-trump-administration-replacing-immigration-judges-with-inexperienced-attorneys,"Wyden, Merkley Introduce Bill to Stop Trump Administration Replacing Immigration Judges with Inexperienced Attorneys",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Since day one of the Trump administration, more than 100 immigration judges have been fired or forced to leave their positions

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they are joining their Senate colleagues in introducing legislation that would prevent Donald Trump from abusing loopholes to appoint inexperienced attorneys as temporary immigration judges.

The Temporary Immigration Judge Integrity Act aims to close loopholes the Trump administration has been using to short-circuit due process and accelerate its mass deportation agenda. This bill follows Trump weaponizing U.S. immigration courts and torching due process rights by replacing more than 100 immigration judges with up to 600 military lawyers.

“Trump is weaponizing our immigration courts and torching due process rights by replacing experienced judges with unqualified lawyers who will rubberstamp his mass deportation agenda,” Wyden said. “Congress needs to ensure that judges hearing these critical and complex cases have the knowledge to give immigrants the fair hearings that they deserve.”

“We can’t stand idly by as an authoritarian strongman tramples on due process,” Merkley said. “Trump is replacing qualified judges with inexperienced lackeys who will carry out his cruel immigration agenda without question. Congress needs to act swiftly to defend the rule of law and make sure that the judges serving on our immigration courts are experienced, qualified, and fair.”

The bill would:

Cap temporary immigration judge appointments at four consecutive six-month terms: 2-year maximum service limit with at least a 3-year break in between services.

Prevent military attorneys and Judge Advocate Generals from being appointed as temporary immigration judges.

Authorize appointments of attorneys at the Department of Justice who meet the eligibility requirements.

Establish basic training requirements.

The bill is endorsed by the American Civil Liberties Union, American Immigration Council, American Immigration Lawyers Association, Brennan Center for Justice, and the National Association of Immigration Judges.

The bill was led by U.S. Senator Adam Schiff, D-Calif. In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the bill was co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin, D-Ill., Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawai'i, Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Chris Murphy, D-Conn., Patty Murray, D-Wash., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Peter Welch, D-Vt.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-statement-on-trumps-farmer-bailout-to-fix-crisis-created-by-trump/,Merkley Statement on Trump’s Farmer Bailout to Fix Crisis Created by Trump,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following the unveil of a $12 billion bailout package for U.S. farmers who have been hurt by President Trump’s reckless and haphazard tariffs, U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee, released the below statement. Due to the Trump Administration’s policies, farmers across several commodities – especially soybeans – have faced devastating financial loses this year when foreign governments dramatically decreased or halted purchasing U.S. commodities altogether. These actions by the Trump Administration have caused farm bankruptcies to rise by nearly 60% compared with 2024.

“The financial strain U.S. farmers have faced throughout this year has been devastating and completely avoidable. There is only one person to blame – Donald Trump. Soybean farmers were projected to have a bumper crop this year – and they did – but Trump’s self-inflicted tariff agenda left farmers with no market to sell to. Now, the Trump Administration is using U.S. tax dollars to provide a bailout to farmers to fix the President’s mistakes. Unfortunately, for many family farms, it’s too late. Farmers are the latest to suffer at the hands of the Trump families lose and billionaires win agenda,” said Ranking Member Jeff Merkley.

This bailout by the Trump Administration not only does very little to support farmers who have faced significant loss this year, it also puts another strain on the pocketbook of the American taxpayer. Given that U.S. consumers and businesses initially paid for the tariffs that Trump put in place, using U.S taxpayer funds to bailout these farmers means U.S. taxpayers are essentially being charged twice for the president’s policies.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/ranking-member-merkley-trump-administration-weaponizing-u-s-park-police-to-further-its-authoritarianism/,Ranking Member Merkley: Trump Administration Weaponizing U.S. Park Police to Further Its Authoritarianism,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley—the top Democrat overseeing funding for the National Park Service— today led U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) to sound the alarm over President Trump’s proposed plans to turn the U.S. Park Police into a federal police force under his direct control for deployment across Washington, D.C. rather than following its mission of safeguarding national monuments and visitors.

The Senators launched their probe in response to a report from The Washington Post, which outlined the unprecedented and dangerous nature of Trump’s plans to transform the U.S. Park Police.

The Senators wrote to U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, “The administration is on a deliberate hiring spree to exploit the U.S. Park Police’s jurisdiction and turn it into a tool of the President for him and his ideological extremists to impose their will on the streets of D.C.”

“Commandeering the U.S. Park Police is not an earnest effort to help protect the Lincoln Memorial or improve motorists’ safety on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway,” the Senators stated. “According to a strategy memo obtained by The Washington Post, a goal for the force is to ‘establish the U.S. Park Police as the premier law enforcement agency in DC, capable of keeping DC safe regardless of inaction by MPD [Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia] or inaction by the DC City Council.’”

“There is no evidence of an uptick in crime on park service land or increased threats to national monuments – this haste in both a hiring spree and waiving of [critical testing and standards for new officers] are clear signs that the administration is hijacking this federal police force for its own authoritarian purposes. And the administration may seek other mechanisms (legal or otherwise) to further expand the U.S. Park Police, increasing this authoritarian threat,” the Senators strongly emphasized.

Merkley and the group of Senators concluded their inquiry by demanding the Trump Administration suspend its plans and swiftly answer urgent questions about its planned weaponization of the Park Police.

Previously, Merkley took to the floor of the U.S. Senate to speak directly to the American people and ring the alarm bells about the Trump Administration’s authoritarian takeover of the country. He spoke for 22 hours 37 minutes—the third longest speech in Senate history.

Full text of the letter can be found by clicking here and follows below:

Dear Secretary Burgum:

We are alarmed that the National Park Service is currently in the process of doubling the number of U.S. Park Police officers in Washington, D.C. with the goal of transforming it into a federal police force to be deployed across the city rather than following its mission of safeguarding national monuments, icons, and visitors.

The administration is on a deliberate hiring spree to exploit the U.S. Park Police’s jurisdiction and turn it into a tool of the President for him and his ideological extremists to impose their will on the streets of D.C. Commandeering the U.S. Park Police is not an earnest effort to help protect the Lincoln Memorial or improve motorists’ safety on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway. According to a strategy memo obtained by The Washington Post, a goal for the force is to “establish the U.S. Park Police as the premier law enforcement agency in DC, capable of keeping DC safe regardless of inaction by MPD [Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia] or inaction by the DC City Council.”

In fact, the administration is in such a hurry to get these new officers on board that it is offering

$70,000 hiring bonuses and a promise of a “streamlined, virtual hiring process with quick turnaround”. There is no psychological testing or physical fitness testing. In fact, applicants are allowed to submit a “self-attestation” in place of an in-person physical fitness test, an affront to the gold standard of federal law enforcement hiring – and standards that MPD itself follows in its hiring practices.

There is no evidence of an uptick in crime on park service land or increased threats to national monuments – this haste in both a hiring spree and waiving of critical testing and standards are clear signs that the administration is hijacking this federal police force for its own authoritarian purposes. And the administration may seek other mechanisms (legal or otherwise) to further expand the U.S. Park Police, increasing this authoritarian threat.

Amassing what is effectively a new federal police force is yet another Trump administration effort to consolidate and centralize his power as he continues to intimidate protestors, threaten free speech, and desensitize Americans to military presence on the streets. Reshaping the U.S. Park Police into a police force with a mission to carry out the President’s policy priorities hands President Trump a cadre of his own armed officers with widespread jurisdiction at his fingertips.

Continuing to amass more armed forces – police and military – under direct control of President Trump in Washington D.C. is unprecedented and dangerous. We demand you suspend the hiring process and provide full and complete responses to the following questions no later than December 19, 2025:

How do the jurisdictions and authorities of the U.S. Park Police and MPD differ in Washington, D.C.? Please provide a specific detailed explanation of your concurrent jurisdictions with federal, state and local law enforcement in the Washington, D.C. area and the role each agency plays in taking law enforcement actions.

MPD and the U.S. Capitol Police have an agreement that MPD cannot enter the U.S. Capitol Building and Congressional office buildings. Does the U.S. Park Police abide by that same limitation, and will they continue to do so? What agreement does Park Police have with MPD and USCP?

Does the Park Police have an interagency or other type agreement with MPD? If so, please provide that document.

Does the Park Police have an interagency or other type agreement with any other federal, state or local law enforcement agency in the National Capital Region? If so, please provide those documents.

Will the U.S. Park Police be used as a general police force or will deployments – regular and occasional – be limited to those involving National Park Service property? If general policing activities will be routinely performed, please provide a specific explanation of the authority, scope and schedule for such activities.

Does the National Park Service have a workforce planning analysis for this hiring increase? If so, please provide a copy.

What hiring standards are being revised, eliminated, or added for the recruiting and selection of these new hires? Please provide a copy of the current hiring standards for new law enforcement officers within the Service.

Reporting indicates that the agency is seeking 300 new officers. Please provide a justification for the number that includes rationale for what the duties of each of these new officers will be. What operational objective is being achieved within the Service by hiring and deploying these new officers?

Please describe what structure exists in the National Park Service for overseeing the USPP for communicating and enforcing, including disciplinary action, the code of conduct and use-of-force policy? How many new staff will be hired for these activities given that staffing in the District will double? Is there an independent body that reviews complaints and internal affairs investigations?

How will the 300 new officers, in addition to the current officers on board, be dispatched across the National Park Service’s jurisdiction? Will they be deployed consistent with U.S. Park Police’s primary operational mission to protect national icons and monuments?

What will the cost be for hiring, training, equipping, and employing 300 new officers in fiscal year 2026? What is the planned source of funding? What new contracts, such as for recruiting or other portions of the hiring process, will be required to meet this hiring goal and to whom are these contracts being awarded? If new contracts are required, will they be competitively awarded or sole source?

What will the cost be in fiscal year 2027? What is the planned source of funding?

Beyond the current hiring expansion announcement, what is the Service’s plan within the next year for personnel hiring in D.C.? Is there a plan for the U.S. Park Police to grow in Washington, D.C. beyond hiring the 300 additional officers?

Are there plans to hire additional officers in New York City (Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island National Historic Site and Gateway National Recreation Area) or San Francisco (Golden Gate National Recreation Area and the Presidio), where there are currently other U.S. Park Police officers deployed? If so, please provide a detailed explanation of the plans.

Are there plans to hire additional U.S. Park Police officers in other parts of the United States, and if so, where? Please provide a detailed explanation of the plans.

What is the source of funding and funding authority for the $70,000 hiring bonus advertised on the website of the National Park Service? What service agreements, if any, are new hires expected to perform for these bonuses? Do the agreements include loyalty pledges, or similar commitments, to the President or this administration? If agreements are required, please provide a copy of the agreement, to include the terms and conditions.

Given the new “streamlined, virtual hiring process with quick turnaround,” please describe in detail each step of the new hiring process for these officers and what requirements potential officers need to meet in order to qualify for this position.

Has the National Park Service used a “streamlined, virtual hiring process with quick turnaround” to hire U.S. Park Police officers in the past? What is the justification for this process? Which hiring standards have been eliminated to meet this hiring objective and why were they eliminated?

Because law enforcement officers are empowered with taking an individual’s constitutional rights away from them during the course of their duties, why is standard psychological testing not part of the hiring evaluation process to ensure the best candidates are selected? How is the Service ensuring that new hires do not have pre-existing mental health issues that would preclude them from carrying out the essential functions of being a law enforcement officer?

Why are applicants allowed to submit a “Self-Attestation” form for physical fitness instead of an in-person physical fitness test? How is the Service ensuring that new hires can carry out the essential functions of the position?

Are any of the interviews conducted in person, or is the entire hiring process conducted on Microsoft Teams as is described on the National Park Service website?

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/wyden-merkley-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-protect-patients-and-ensure-more-americans-can-afford-health-care/,"Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect Patients and Ensure More Americans can Afford Health Care",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today is leading Senate colleagues, including U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, in introducing legislation to protect health care coverage for millions of Americans and improve the effectiveness of the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace.

The Restoring Patient Protections and Affordability Act would renew the enhanced premium tax credits for three years, extend the 2026 open enrollment period, reduce paperwork for families, and lower out-of-pocket costs.

“Americans today are waking up to a cold reality: health care costs are doubling, tripling, or even worse,” Wyden said. “While Trump is playing the blame game on America’s affordability crisis, Democrats are working day and night to extend ACA tax credits so that working families nationwide can access quality care without breaking the bank.”

“Republicans exploded the cost of care for more than 20 million Americans who use the ACA exchange for health insurance—all to fund tax breaks for the already richest Americans,” said Merkley. “I refuse to let folks be left out in the cold—Congress needs to act now to fix the Republican health care crisis and lower the cost of health care for folks in Oregon and across the country.”

More than 20 million Americans rely on ACA Marketplace plans to have access to comprehensive health coverage, including small business owners, farmers and ranchers, independent contractors, and those who cannot afford insurance through their employers.

Through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regulations, the Trump administration has systematically erected barriers that have made it both more difficult and more expensive for Americans to access health care coverage. With open enrollment underway, people are actively logging onto healthcare.gov to shop for insurance coverage in 2026 and seeing massive premium spikes that will cause millions of people to forgo coverage altogether.

The Restoring Patient Protections and Affordability Act would:

Prevent health insurance premium spikes by extending the enhanced premium tax credits for three years;

Extend open enrollment, restore navigator funding, and reinstate the low-income special enrollment period, protecting Americans who buy their own insurance on the ACA Marketplace from the chaos and confusion caused by Republicans;

Force insurance companies to be more transparent by requiring that health plan enrollees are notified of new information about eligibility, new premium amounts, and extended open enrollment;

Make it easier for working people to enroll in ACA coverage by reinstating automatic reenrollment and protecting against bureaucratic coverage denials;

Lower premiums, deductibles, and cost sharing for millions of Americans by reversing flawed Trump administration insurance payment formulas and by reinstating the bronze to silver cross walk;

Protect consumers from surprise premium bills by reinstating the repayment caps for those who inadvertently overestimate their income;

The bill was led by Wyden and U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-Del. In addition to Merkley, the bill was also co-sponsored by Senators Cory Booker, D-N.J., and Tina Smith, D-Minn.

Wyden and Merkley have continually championed affordable health care. In November Wyden and Merkley slammed the Trump administration for its failure to address rising health care costs for American families.

The full text of the bill is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/wyden-merkley-urge-trump-administration-to-release-funds-for-klamath-family-head-start/,"Wyden, Merkley Urge Trump Administration to Release Funds for Klamath Family Head Start",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Oregon senators’ letter notes that federal agency delays could endanger program helping 180 children in Southern Oregon

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they are calling on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Head Start to release grant funding essential to preventing the Klamath Family Head Start program from foreclosing on its main site in Klamath Falls, Oregon.

“Despite the program submitting a full application for funding to pay off an outstanding loan and purchase their facility more than six months ago, Klamath Family Head Start still has yet to receive an update from the Office of Head Start (OHS),” the senators wrote to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. “This delay is especially troubling as Klamath Family Head Start’s lender has now informed them that they will extend the mortgage only through December 18, 2025, after which this program could lose its building.”

“Klamath Family Head Start has been a trusted Head Start provider since 1980 and foreclosure of the building would be devastating for the community,” the senators continued. “One hundred eighty children and families in rural Oregon rely on this facility on a daily basis and it is supported by over 40 staff members. If the program is forced into an eviction or emergency relocation because of a stalled federal review process, Oregon families will pay the price.”

The senators requested an update to the status of the grant request, and a timeline of when OHS will complete its review.

The full letter is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-protect-patients-and-ensure-more-americans-can-afford-health-care,"Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect Patients and Ensure More Americans can Afford Health Care",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,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 is leading Senate colleagues, including U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, in introducing legislation to protect health care coverage for millions of Americans and improve the effectiveness of the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace.

The Restoring Patient Protections and Affordability Act would renew the enhanced premium tax credits for three years, extend the 2026 open enrollment period, reduce paperwork for families, and lower out-of-pocket costs.

“Americans today are waking up to a cold reality: health care costs are doubling, tripling, or even worse,” Wyden said. “While Trump is playing the blame game on America’s affordability crisis, Democrats are working day and night to extend ACA tax credits so that working families nationwide can access quality care without breaking the bank.”

“Republicans exploded the cost of care for more than 20 million Americans who use the ACA exchange for health insurance—all to fund tax breaks for the already richest Americans,” said Merkley. “I refuse to let folks be left out in the cold—Congress needs to act now to fix the Republican health care crisis and lower the cost of health care for folks in Oregon and across the country.”

More than 20 million Americans rely on ACA Marketplace plans to have access to comprehensive health coverage, including small business owners, farmers and ranchers, independent contractors, and those who cannot afford insurance through their employers.

Through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regulations, the Trump administration has systematically erected barriers that have made it both more difficult and more expensive for Americans to access health care coverage. With open enrollment underway, people are actively logging onto healthcare.gov to shop for insurance coverage in 2026 and seeing massive premium spikes that will cause millions of people to forgo coverage altogether.

The Restoring Patient Protections and Affordability Act would:

Prevent health insurance premium spikes by extending the enhanced premium tax credits for three years;

Extend open enrollment, restore navigator funding, and reinstate the low-income special enrollment period, protecting Americans who buy their own insurance on the ACA Marketplace from the chaos and confusion caused by Republicans;

Force insurance companies to be more transparent by requiring that health plan enrollees are notified of new information about eligibility, new premium amounts, and extended open enrollment;

Make it easier for working people to enroll in ACA coverage by reinstating automatic reenrollment and protecting against bureaucratic coverage denials;

Lower premiums, deductibles, and cost sharing for millions of Americans by reversing flawed Trump administration insurance payment formulas and by reinstating the bronze to silver cross walk;

Protect consumers from surprise premium bills by reinstating the repayment caps for those who inadvertently overestimate their income;

The bill was led by Wyden and U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-Del. In addition to Merkley, the bill was also co-sponsored by Senators Cory Booker, D-N.J., and Tina Smith, D-Minn.

Wyden and Merkley have continually championed affordable health care. In November Wyden and Merkley slammed the Trump administration for its failure to address rising health care costs for American families.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-urge-trump-administration-to-release-funds-for-klamath-family-head-start,"Wyden, Merkley Urge Trump Administration to Release Funds for Klamath Family Head Start",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Oregon senators’ letter notes that federal agency delays could endanger program helping 180 children in Southern Oregon

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they are calling on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Head Start to release grant funding essential to preventing the Klamath Family Head Start program from foreclosing on its main site in Klamath Falls, Oregon.

“Despite the program submitting a full application for funding to pay off an outstanding loan and purchase their facility more than six months ago, Klamath Family Head Start still has yet to receive an update from the Office of Head Start (OHS),” the senators wrote to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. “This delay is especially troubling as Klamath Family Head Start’s lender has now informed them that they will extend the mortgage only through December 18, 2025, after which this program could lose its building.”

“Klamath Family Head Start has been a trusted Head Start provider since 1980 and foreclosure of the building would be devastating for the community,” the senators continued. “One hundred eighty children and families in rural Oregon rely on this facility on a daily basis and it is supported by over 40 staff members. If the program is forced into an eviction or emergency relocation because of a stalled federal review process, Oregon families will pay the price.”

The senators requested an update to the status of the grant request, and a timeline of when OHS will complete its review.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/blumenthal-merkley-raise-concerns-about-fda-pilot-program-that-would-expedite-review-of-nicotine-pouches-undercut-scientific-standards/,"BLUMENTHAL & MERKLEY RAISE CONCERNS ABOUT FDA PILOT PROGRAM THAT WOULD EXPEDITE REVIEW OF NICOTINE POUCHES, UNDERCUT SCIENTIFIC STANDARDS",2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"“As public health experts have emphasized, any efforts to speed up FDA review must not come at the expense of protecting youth from highly addictive nicotine products.”

[WASHINGTON, DC] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) wrote to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Martin Makary, raising concerns about a recently announced pilot program at FDA that would accelerate the review of nicotine pouches like Zyn. In their letter, Blumenthal and Merkley underscored the need for thorough oversight of nicotine products, pointing to how an expedited review process could undercut scientific review standards and allow for an uptick in the use of flavored nicotine pouches among youth.

U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Jack Reed (D-RI) joined Blumenthal and Merkley in seeking answers from FDA about the pilot program.

“While youth use of nicotine pouches is still fairly low, it has steadily increased. Nicotine use among youth remains a serious public health concern, and appropriate oversight of nicotine pouches is needed. It is critical for FDA to avoid shortcuts that could undermine the scientific integrity of its review of these products,” the Senators wrote.

The Senators highlighted public health concerns related to youth nicotine addiction, “Nicotine pouches are highly addictive and can deliver nicotine at levels similar to cigarettes. Health experts warn that nicotine is especially dangerous for youth because nicotine exposure can harm the developing brain. Adolescents’ brains are still maturing, making them more vulnerable to nicotine’s addictive properties and potentially leading to lasting physical and cognitive changes. According to the Surgeon General, nicotine exposure during this critical period can impair attention, learning, and memory, while increasing the likelihood of addiction to nicotine and other substances later in life.”

“Despite these concerns, FDA has launched a pilot program to streamline the premarket review of nicotine pouch products. The accelerated timeline and possible reduced documentation requirements raise serious questions about how thorough FDA’s evaluations will be. To date, little information has been shared on how this expedited process is being implemented and whether it will uphold the rigorous review standards mandated by the Tobacco Control Act, which requires a careful assessment of risks and benefits to the public’s health, including the impact on youth,” the Senator concluded.

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

Dr. Martin Makary, MD

Commissioner

U.S. Food and Drug Administration

10903 New Hampshire Avenue

Silver Spring, Maryland 20993

Dear Commissioner Makary,

We are deeply concerned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recently announced pilot program related to the premarket review of nicotine pouch products, which could lead to weak standards and a harmful uptick in use among youth. As you know, Zyn and other nicotine pouch products are increasing in popularity. While youth use of nicotine pouches is still fairly low, it has steadily increased. Nicotine use among youth remains a serious public health concern, and appropriate oversight of nicotine pouches is needed. It is critical for FDA to avoid shortcuts that could undermine the scientific integrity of its review of these products.

Nicotine pouches come in a variety of appealing flavors such as peppermint, berry, citrus, and cinnamon, increasing their attractiveness to youth and non-smokers. Their odorless nature and discreet placement between the gum and lip make them difficult to detect in schools and homes. According to data from the 2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey, approximately 480,000 middle and high school students currently use nicotine pouches, more than double the number reported in 2021. If left unchecked, these products will continue to contribute to increased nicotine addiction, posing serious public health risks among youth.

The nicotine pouch market has rapidly expanded in recent years. According to the CDC Foundation, total nicotine pouch dollar sales increased from $145.5 million in January 2023 to $510.5 million in August 2025, a 250% increase. Leading brands such as Zyn, On!, and Velo are the most commonly used nicotine pouch products by youth and young adults. These products are marketed as flavorful and healthier alternatives to traditional tobacco. Promoters on social media, often referred to as “Zynfluencers”, portray nicotine pouch use in humorous situations, focus on young men, and downplay addiction. While this advertisement appears to be mostly organic rather than company-sponsored, it has proven highly effective with the top 100 TikTok posts about Zyn alone having generated approximately 400 million views. This trend is extremely concerning, given that flavored tobacco products have historically been marketed to appeal to youth and young adults.

Nicotine pouches are highly addictive and can deliver nicotine at levels similar to cigarettes. Health experts warn that nicotine is especially dangerous for youth because nicotine exposure can harm the developing brain. Adolescents’ brains are still maturing, making them more vulnerable to nicotine’s addictive properties and potentially leading to lasting physical and cognitive changes. According to the Surgeon General, nicotine exposure during this critical period can impair attention, learning, and memory, while increasing the likelihood of addiction to nicotine and other substances later in life. Additionally, the CDC’s Vaping Resource Guide notes that nicotine exposure can negatively affect normal brain development by impacting concentration and reducing impulse control. Given these significant risks, any increased use of nicotine pouches among young people is alarming, especially as these products remain loosely regulated under existing U.S. tobacco control polices, are easily concealed and are widely marketed, making prevention and enforcement efforts more difficult.

Despite these concerns, FDA has launched a pilot program to streamline the premarket review of nicotine pouch products. The accelerated timeline and possible reduced documentation requirements raise serious questions about how thorough FDA’s evaluations will be. To date, little information has been shared on how this expedited process is being implemented and whether it will uphold the rigorous review standards mandated by the Tobacco Control Act, which requires a careful assessment of risks and benefits to the public’s health, including the impact on youth. Historically, insufficient oversight of new tobacco products, prior to their entry into the market, has contributed to widespread youth addiction and public health crises, highlighting the critical need for thorough review.

As public health experts have emphasized, any efforts to speed up FDA review must not come at the expense of protecting youth from highly addictive nicotine products. That is why we request answers to the following questions by December 19th, 2025:

How will FDA ensure that this expedited process does not increase youth use of tobacco products or compromise public health?

Under the pilot program, will FDA’s scientific review of premarket applications for nicotine pouches change? In its press statement, FDA said it will focus its review on “the most critical elements for this product category.” Which elements will FDA focus on and which elements will it de-emphasize?

Are news reports accurate that under the pilot program manufacturers may not be required to submit product-specific studies in several areas and could instead rely on general research about the category of nicotine products? Hasn’t FDA’s experience reviewing e-cigarettes demonstrated the importance of product-specific data in determining whether a product is “appropriate for the protection of the public health”?

Given FDA’s previous finding that flavored tobacco products present a higher risk of youth use, will FDA require manufacturers to provide evidence that a flavored nicotine pouch will help more people switch away from cigarettes than a tobacco-flavored nicotine pouch under the expedited review pilot program?

How will FDA consider the impact of nicotine pouch marketing in the expedited review process?

How will FDA monitor and respond if youth use rises as a consequence of these changes?

To ensure transparency, will FDA commit to holding a public meeting on the pilot program and issuing written materials on how FDA is implementing it?

Thank you for your commitment to protecting the health and well-being of our nation’s children. We look forward to working with you on these issues.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/delauro-merkley-lead-bicameral-bipartisan-letter-urging-fda-action-on-preterm-infant-formula-fortifiers/,"DeLauro, Merkley Lead Bicameral, Bipartisan Letter Urging FDA Action On Preterm Infant Formula Fortifiers",2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON —Today, US Representative Rosa DeLauro released a letter to the Secretary of Health and Human Services, along with Senator Martin Heinrich, Senator Roger Marshall, Senator Jeff Merkley, Representative Madeleine Dean, Representative Riley Moore, and Representative Jeff Van Drew, urging action in the wake of over 1,000 lawsuits against preterm infant formula manufacturers in the United States, stemming from failures to warn parents of the increased risk of a serious gastrointestinal illness, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), associated with the use of non-human milk-derived fortifiers:

“These lawsuits raise serious questions about the use of non-human milk preterm infant formulas for very low birthweight infants said Congresswoman DeLauro. “NEC is a deadly disease for our infants, with one baby dying each day in NICUs. I will never support blanket liability protections for major companies because protecting our youngest and most vulnerable infants should be our highest priority. We must take action to stabilize the preterm infant formula market based on the overwhelming scientific consensus that human milk is the best source of infant nutrition. That is why the FDA should quickly implement the actions outlined in this bipartisan, bicameral letter to increase the availability of human milk-based fortifiers and provide better information and potentially better options to parents, who should not be forced to guess what product is best for their child.”

“New and expecting moms deserve access to the best possible resources and information to care for their newborns,” said Senator Merkley. “As necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) continues to harm infants, with one baby per day dying of this disease, the FDA must take action to ensure parents aren’t left wondering about the formula they choose. Reforms are necessary to ensure peace of mind for the millions of parents in Oregon and across the nation.”

“It is the duty of Congress to protect our most vulnerable — including our precious newborns. And as a mother and grandmother, I am deeply concerned by the more than 1,000 lawsuits against preterm infant formula manufacturers whose job it is to nourish them,” Rep. Dean said. “I join my colleagues, led by Congresswoman DeLauro, in urging the FDA to take action to help parents better access human milk-based fortifiers and better educate families who are caring for their newest members.”

“For too long, there has been a lack of transparency between infant formula companies and the public on the nature of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) and human-derived infant formula fortifiers,” said Congressman Riley Moore. “Parents deserve to know what is in the formula they are giving their children. We must continue to ensure transparency for parents of premature infants to protect children from deadly and highly preventable NEC.”

“When you have more than a thousand lawsuits from parents who all say the same thing, that tells me there is a real problem,” said Congressman Van Drew. “If the evidence shows certain non–human milk fortifiers carry a higher risk of NEC in very small infants, then the FDA has a responsibility to act. I am proud to join this bipartisan effort to make sure parents have clear information and safer options.”

The text of the letter is available here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-kaine-no-funds-for-war-against-venezuela/,"Merkley, Kaine: No Funds for War Against Venezuela",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and Virginia’s U.S. Senator Tim Kaine today teamed up to introduce the Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025 to prohibit the use of federal funds for any use of military force in or against Venezuela without explicit Congressional authorization.

“Congress cannot stand by while Donald Trump wages war without authorization,” said Merkley. “Nicolás Maduro is a brutal dictator, but that does not provide justification for the Trump Administration to ignore U.S. law to carry out these unconstitutional military strikes. Donald Trump cannot be trusted, and we must say no to another endless war, reckless regime change, and lethal operations—which are essentially extrajudicial killings—and do nothing to make the American people safer.”

“We shouldn’t stumble into an unnecessary war with Venezuela—risking U.S. servicemembers’ lives—with no congressional authorization and incomplete information about the Administration’s objectives, its legal rationale, and the potential consequences of a long-term conflict that could drive migration and irreparably fracture Venezuela,” said Kaine. “This legislation would prevent us from doing that, and I urge my colleagues to support it and reclaim the solemn responsibilities on matters of war and peace assigned to Congress by the Constitution.”

Merkley and Kaine’s bill does not prevent the United States from acting to defend itself or its citizens from an armed attack or threat of an imminent armed attack, pursue lawful counternarcotics operations, or provide humanitarian assistance to the Venezuelan people.

The Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025 is also co-sponsored by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD).

“The Trump Administration has amassed the largest naval buildup in the Caribbean in decades and committed extrajudicial killings in international waters amounting either to murder or war crimes. Congress has not authorized this Administration to take these offensive actions, and with good reason – the American people do not want to start another war. We must put a stop to this by passing this simple measure to prevent U.S. taxpayer dollars from funding the Trump Administration’s manufactured conflict with Venezuela,” said Van Hollen.

During the first Trump Administration, Merkley introduced a Senate resolution prohibiting military action in Venezuela. Kaine has also been a leading voice in Congress raising concerns over presidents’ efforts to expand the use of military force without Congressional authorization.

Full text of the Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025 can be found by clicking here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-wyden-hoyle-announce-newport-helicopter-returns-to-the-community/,"Merkley, Wyden, Hoyle Announce Newport Helicopter Returns to the Community",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Senators obtain commitment directly from Coast Guard during a call today

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04), today announced that Admiral Kevin Lunday, Acting Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, committed to the Senators on a call that an essential rescue helicopter located at the Newport Air Facility would remain there:

“Thanks to public pressure and action from the courts, the Coast Guard has committed to keeping the rescue helicopter in Newport for good, which is critical ahead of the start of crab season. This great news came after I arranged a meeting with the Acting Commandant of the Coast Guard, Admiral Lunday, with Senator Wyden to share with him about the history and importance of this rescue helicopter being stationed in Newport,” said Merkley. “And if anything changes, I will work with Senator Wyden and Congresswoman Hoyle to fight with the community because we know how important this asset is to saving lives on the coast.”

“This is a big win to keep fishermen as well as Oregonians and tourists visiting the Newport area safe when they are enjoying the Pacific Ocean,” said Wyden. “I’ll keep watchdogging this Coast Guard commitment and battling against any move by the Trump administration to site an ICE detention facility in Newport or anywhere else on the Oregon Coast. But for today’s helicopter victory, huge credit goes to the Newport Fishermen’s Wives and local officials who sat down with me recently in town to press the Coast Guard to reverse its inexplicable and indefensible decision to move this helicopter more than 90 miles away.”

“I’m so proud of our community and how hard they fought to ensure that we had a Coast Guard helicopter back in time for our fishermen to know that they will be more safe when doing one of the most dangerous jobs in the world,” said Hoyle. “While Newport is home to just 10,000 people, everyone came together to make their voices heard. I especially want to thank the Fishermen’s Wives and our local elected officials for never wavering on our goal to protect lives. We’ve fought this battle before, and every time Newport has been underestimated. Lesson for DHS and the Coast Guard: don’t mess with Newport.”

Merkley and Wyden’s successful push to return the helicopter to Newport follows joint efforts with Congresswoman Hoyle and other members of Congress to hold the Coast Guard accountable for its decision to remove the rescue helicopter. Today, Admiral Lunday and a representative from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) both committed to keeping the rescue helicopter in Newport, Oregon.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/wyden-merkley-crapo-risch-push-for-passage-of-secure-rural-schools-reauthorization/,"Wyden, Merkley, Crapo, Risch Push for Passage of Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Bipartisan group of 83 lawmakers in the Senate and House call for action in the U.S. House of Representatives to aid rural, forested counties

Washington, D.C. –– U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley (both D-Oregon), alongside U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and James Risch (both R-Idaho) are leading a bipartisan coalition of 83 lawmakers in sending a letter today to House leadership requesting urgent reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) and Self Determination Act.

The bill, which the Senate unanimously passed in June 2025, would reauthorize the program through fiscal year 2026 and provide lapsed payments for fiscal years 2024 and 2025.

Funding for the SRS program lapsed in September of 2023, with the last authorized payments distributed to counties in early 2024.

“. . . Counties and school districts across 41 states have seen a 63 percent cut in funding. This $177 million loss is devastating for rural communities, leading to school closures, delayed road and bridge maintenance and reduced public safety services. These are not abstract policy debates; they are tangible consequences for local governments and the communities that steward untaxed federal lands,” the letter reads.

Background on the SRS program:

The first SRS program co-authored by Wyden was authorized in 2000 with enactment of the SRS and Community Self-Determination Act.

This legislation specifically assists counties containing tracts of federally owned forest land that are tax-exempt.

The program provides payments to county governments in areas where those forests are located because counties do not receive tax revenue from federal land; the payments come through timber receipts and other revenue generating activities within U.S. national forests.

In Oregon, $78.4 million was spread across 33 counties to help pay for educational programs, emergency response systems and other services this past year.

Since the program was not reauthorized, county payments reverted to 1908 timber sharing law, which represents about an 80 percent cut for some counties.

The entire letter is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-hoyle-announce-newport-helicopter-returns-to-the-community,"Merkley, Wyden, Hoyle Announce Newport Helicopter Returns to the Community",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Senators obtain commitment directly from Coast Guard during a call today

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04), today announced that Admiral Kevin Lunday, Acting Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, committed to the Senators on a call that an essential rescue helicopter located at the Newport Air Facility would remain there:

“Thanks to public pressure and action from the courts, the Coast Guard has committed to keeping the rescue helicopter in Newport for good, which is critical ahead of the start of crab season. This great news came after I arranged a meeting with the Acting Commandant of the Coast Guard, Admiral Lunday, with Senator Wyden to share with him about the history and importance of this rescue helicopter being stationed in Newport,” said Merkley. “And if anything changes, I will work with Senator Wyden and Congresswoman Hoyle to fight with the community because we know how important this asset is to saving lives on the coast.”

“This is a big win to keep fishermen as well as Oregonians and tourists visiting the Newport area safe when they are enjoying the Pacific Ocean,” said Wyden. “I’ll keep watchdogging this Coast Guard commitment and battling against any move by the Trump administration to site an ICE detention facility in Newport or anywhere else on the Oregon Coast. But for today’s helicopter victory, huge credit goes to the Newport Fishermen’s Wives and local officials who sat down with me recently in town to press the Coast Guard to reverse its inexplicable and indefensible decision to move this helicopter more than 90 miles away.”

""I’m so proud of our community and how hard they fought to ensure that we had a Coast Guard helicopter back in time for our fishermen to know that they will be more safe when doing one of the most dangerous jobs in the world,"" said Hoyle. ""While Newport is home to just 10,000 people, everyone came together to make their voices heard. I especially want to thank the Fishermen’s Wives and our local elected officials for never wavering on our goal to protect lives. We’ve fought this battle before, and every time Newport has been underestimated. Lesson for DHS and the Coast Guard: don’t mess with Newport.""

Merkley and Wyden’s successful push to return the helicopter to Newport follows joint efforts with Congresswoman Hoyle and other members of Congress to hold the Coast Guard accountable for its decision to remove the rescue helicopter. Today, Admiral Lunday and a representative from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) both committed to keeping the rescue helicopter in Newport, Oregon.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-crapo-introduce-bipartisan-pharmacy-benefit-manager-legislation,"Wyden, Crapo Introduce Bipartisan Pharmacy Benefit Manager Legislation",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"“It’s long past time to go after middlemen who are making Americans’ prescription drugs more expensive,” Wyden said. “The Finance Committee has put forward a comprehensive approach to stop the pharmacy benefit manager business practices that are harming seniors and taxpayers who count on Medicare to deliver affordable prescription drugs. It’s time to get this done.”

“Pharmacy benefit managers should not profit from overcharging patients for their prescriptions,” said Crapo. “This bipartisan legislation is a decisive step toward making the prescription drug market easier to navigate for both patients and pharmacies. These proposals form a strong foundation for additional efforts to promote pharmacy access, demystify drug pricing and reduce costs for both taxpayers and seniors.”

Delink PBM compensation from their negotiated rebates to disincentivize PBMs from promoting higher-priced medications;

Increase PBM reporting requirements to Medicare Part D plan sponsors and to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and empower Part D plan sponsors to audit their PBM for compliance with contract requirements;

Reinforce existing requirements that plan sponsors contract with any willing pharmacy that meets their standard contract terms and conditions to better protect independent pharmacies in rural areas from practices that have contributed to widespread closures;

Require participation by retail community pharmacies in the National Average Drug Acquisition Cost (NADAC) survey, which would ensure accurate Medicaid payments to pharmacies; and

Mandate PBMs pass Medicaid payments directly to pharmacies to ensure transparent drug costs for states and taxpayers.

Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Michael Bennet (D-Colorado), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Tina Smith (D-Minnesota), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Mark Warner (D-Virginia), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Raphael Warnock (D-Georgia), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Peter Welch (D-Vermont), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) and Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina) co-sponsored the PBM Price Transparency and Accountability Act.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-introduces-bill-to-address-health-care-labor-shortage,Wyden Introduces Bill to Address Health Care Labor Shortage,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Bill would streamline Department of Labor training and apprenticeship programs for aspiring health care professionals

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today introduced legislation that would help address the ongoing health care labor shortage by making it easier for health care employers to create new registered apprenticeship programs to train the next generation of health professionals.

“The Republican health care ‘agenda’ is a runaway train barreling toward our country’s health care system,” Wyden said. “Health care is the biggest employment sector in our country. But doctors, nurses, and providers are already stretched thin and burned out from long hours and limited resources, and the nearly one trillion-dollar cut to Medicaid passed by Republicans earlier this year will magnify a glaring health care workforce shortage. My legislation will help close that widening gap by training the next generation of health professionals to ensure American families get the care they need.”

The American Hospital Association reported that America will face a shortage of about 100,000 critical health care workers by 2028

The Department of Labor’s Healthcare Apprenticeships program offers training opportunities for aspiring medical assistants, dental assistants, pharmacy technicians, behavioral health paraprofessionals, registered nurses and home health aides, among other critical providers delivering high-quality care to patients nationwide.

Wyden’s Fast Track Apprenticeship Act would reduce barriers to entry for the training program by:

Requiring federal and state labor agencies to make determinations on health care apprenticeship applications within 45 days of receipt.

Requiring the Department of Labor to digitize apprenticeship agreement forms, modernize the application process and enhance accessibility for applicants.

House companion legislation was also introduced by Representatives Mike Kennedy, R-Utah, and Julie Johnson, D-Texas.

“The Hospital Association of Oregon appreciates Senator Wyden’s efforts to grow the health care workforce by reducing barriers to establishing apprenticeship programs. When planning for our hospitals’ workforce pipelines, apprenticeships are an option that can increase diversity and allow workers to live and work in their communities while receiving their training. To mitigate the capacity challenges and prevent future crises — both for the workforce and for patients — there must be intentional efforts to develop innovative solutions, which should include apprenticeships,” wrote Becky Hultberg, President & CEO of the Hospital Association of Oregon.

“At a time when the need for qualified healthcare workers is greater than ever, Sen. Wyden’s Fast Track Health Care Apprenticeships Act is the type of action our communities need. By reducing barriers to establishing healthcare apprenticeships and streamlining the outdated processes that slow these programs down, this bill will open doors for people to train, live, and work in the communities they love. It will help build a more diverse, representative workforce and create a new generation of caregivers at a moment when they are urgently needed. SEIU is proud to support this effort to strengthen our healthcare system and the workers who make it run,” wrote Leslie Frane, Executive Vice President of the Service Employees International Union.

Wyden has been a strong advocate in the Senate for addressing the health care workforce shortage. In August 2024, Wyden introduced bipartisan legislation to provide federal support for community-led education and training for health care workers in rural and underserved communities. Previously, he urged the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to finance, support and expand the availability of addiction medicine specialists. In May 2024, Wyden released proposals to expand and improve the distribution of Medicare-supported residency programs to rural areas and specialties in shortage.

The bill text is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-crapo-risch-push-for-passage-of-secure-rural-schools-reauthorization,"Wyden, Merkley, Crapo, Risch Push for Passage of Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Bipartisan group of 83 lawmakers in the Senate and House call for action in the U.S. House of Representatives to aid rural, forested counties

Washington, D.C. –– U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley (both D-Oregon), alongside U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and James Risch (both R-Idaho) are leading a bipartisan coalition of 83 lawmakers in sending a letter today to House leadership requesting urgent reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) and Self Determination Act.

The bill, which the Senate unanimously passed in June 2025, would reauthorize the program through fiscal year 2026 and provide lapsed payments for fiscal years 2024 and 2025.

Funding for the SRS program lapsed in September of 2023, with the last authorized payments distributed to counties in early 2024.

"". . . Counties and school districts across 41 states have seen a 63 percent cut in funding. This $177 million loss is devastating for rural communities, leading to school closures, delayed road and bridge maintenance and reduced public safety services. These are not abstract policy debates; they are tangible consequences for local governments and the communities that steward untaxed federal lands,"" the letter reads.

Background on the SRS program:

The first SRS program co-authored by Wyden was authorized in 2000 with enactment of the SRS and Community Self-Determination Act.

This legislation specifically assists counties containing tracts of federally owned forest land that are tax-exempt.

The program provides payments to county governments in areas where those forests are located because counties do not receive tax revenue from federal land; the payments come through timber receipts and other revenue generating activities within U.S. national forests.

In Oregon, $78.4 million was spread across 33 counties to help pay for educational programs, emergency response systems and other services this past year.

Since the program was not reauthorized, county payments reverted to 1908 timber sharing law, which represents about an 80 percent cut for some counties.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-murkowski-lujan-massie-khanna-demand-doj-briefing-on-release-of-the-epstein-files/,"Merkley, Murkowski, Luján, Massie, Khanna Demand DOJ Briefing on Release of the Epstein Files",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Senate and House sponsors of Epstein Files Transparency Act lead the charge to ensure law is fully implemented.

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) joined forces with U.S. Representatives Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA) to call on Attorney General Pam Bondi to provide a briefing on the U.S. Department of Justice’s efforts to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act and fully release the Epstein Files by December 19, 2025—as required by the law.

Merkley, Murkowski, Luján, Massie, and Khanna’s letter comes as the Justice Department is legally required to release all the Epstein Files within the law’s 30-day requirement.

“We write as the bipartisan lead sponsors of the Epstein Files Transparency Act to express our shared interest in supporting the Department of Justice’s efforts to carry out the provisions of this critical new law,” the bipartisan group of lawmakers wrote. “In light of the short 30 day deadline to release the Epstein Files, we are particularly focused on understanding the contents of any new evidence, information or procedural hurdles that could interfere with the Department’s ability meet this statutory deadline.”

They demanded, “In the interest of transparency and clarity on the steps required to faithfully implement the Epstein Files Transparency Act, we request a briefing either in a classified or unclassified setting, to discuss the full contents of this new information in your possession at your convenience, but not later than Friday, December 5, 2025.”

The Epstein Files Transparency Act overwhelmingly passed Congress and was signed into law by President Trump on November 19, 2025. The landmark transparency legislation includes strong protections to redact appropriate information to protect victims’ privacy and national security, while explicitly prohibiting redactions based on reputational harm or political sensitivity.

“In addition, we underscore that protecting survivors’ privacy is central to the law’s intent. We share concerns about the Department’s ability to accurately identify and redact victims’ names. The victim’s lawyers have far greater knowledge of who these individuals are, and they are prepared to confidentially transmit names that must be redacted to prevent privacy violations. We urge the Department to coordinate directly with these attorneys to establish a secure process to fully protect all victim identities,” the lawmakers emphasized.

Full text of the letter can be found by clicking here and follows below:

Dear Attorney General Bondi:

We write as the bipartisan lead sponsors of the Epstein Files Transparency Act to express our shared interest in supporting the Department of Justice’s efforts to carry out the provisions of this critical new law. In light of the short 30 day deadline to release the Epstein Files, we are particularly focused on understanding the contents of any new evidence, information or procedural hurdles that could interfere with the Department’s ability meet this statutory deadline.

On July 7, 2025, the Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Investigation published a memo outlining conclusions from an “exhaustive review of the investigative holdings relating to Jeffrey Epstein.” This memo confirmed that the Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Investigation “did not uncover evidence that could predicate an investigation against uncharged third parties.”

On November 14, 2025, the Department of Justice announced that Jay Clayton, the U.S. attorney in Manhattan, would initiate new investigations into connections between Jeffrey Epstein and former President Bill Clinton, former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers, and a prominent investor, Reid Hoffman. In a press conference on November 19, 2025, you justified the new investigations into these individuals by stating “information [that] has come forward, new information, additional information.”

In the interest of transparency and clarity on the steps required to faithfully implement the Epstein Files Transparency Act, we request a briefing either in a classified or unclassified setting, to discuss the full contents of this new information in your possession at your convenience, but not later than Friday, December 5, 2025.

In addition, we underscore that protecting survivors’ privacy is central to the law’s intent. We share concerns about the Department’s ability to accurately identify and redact victims’ names. The victim’s lawyers have far greater knowledge of who these individuals are, and they are prepared to confidentially transmit names that must be redacted to prevent privacy violations. We urge the Department to coordinate directly with these attorneys to establish a secure process to fully protect all victim identities.

We look forward to hearing from you to ensure the law is fully implemented with critical safeguards to protect survivors.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-wyden-colleagues-urge-secretary-bessent-to-reject-proposed-dollar-coin-designs-featuring-donald-trump/,"Merkley, Wyden, Colleagues Urge Secretary Bessent to Reject Proposed Dollar Coin Designs Featuring Donald Trump",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and Nevada’s U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto led seven Senate Democrats—including Senator Ron Wyden—in a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent calling on him to reject the proposed designs for the Semiquincentennial dollar coin featuring the likeness of President Donald Trump.

“American lawmakers throughout history have reaffirmed the time-honored tradition of not circulating U.S. currency with images of currently elected officials,” wrote the Senators. “For centuries, minting sitting presidents on U.S. currency has been avoided to prevent the appearance that the U.S. is a monarchy or subject to a cult of personality. While the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia have featured images of former Queen Elizabeth II for decades, and now also feature King Charles III on their banknotes, the United States has never, and we should not now, mint circulating currency with images of currently elected officials.”

On November 18, the U.S. Mint published draft designs for the Semiquincentennial $1 Coin, which include three different portrait options placing President Trump on the front of the coin.

The Senators continue: “A portrait of President Trump is the only CCAC proposed design option for the semiquincentennial $1 coin, all but confirming the U.S. Mint intends to mint a circulating coin with a portrait of President Trump while he is in office. Putting an image of President Trump on a circulating coin is not only inconsistent with congressional intent to honor 250 years of United States’ history, but also un-American. We should not depict a living, current president on U.S. currency.”

In addition to Wyden, the letter was signed by Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.).

Merkley has continually pushed to end public corruption, including leading a bipartisan bill that would prevent lawmakers from trading stocks and legislation to crack down on cryptocurrency-related corruption by elected officials at the highest levels of the federal government. He and Wyden have also long championed efforts to crack down on dark money in politics.

Read the full letter by clicking here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-colleagues-urge-secretary-bessent-to-reject-proposed-dollar-coin-designs-featuring-donald-trump,"Merkley, Wyden, Colleagues Urge Secretary Bessent to Reject Proposed Dollar Coin Designs Featuring Donald Trump",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,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. Senator Jeff Merkley and Nevada’s U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto led seven Senate Democrats—including Senator Ron Wyden—in a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent calling on him to reject the proposed designs for the Semiquincentennial dollar coin featuring the likeness of President Donald Trump.

“American lawmakers throughout history have reaffirmed the time-honored tradition of not circulating U.S. currency with images of currently elected officials,” wrote the Senators. “For centuries, minting sitting presidents on U.S. currency has been avoided to prevent the appearance that the U.S. is a monarchy or subject to a cult of personality. While the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia have featured images of former Queen Elizabeth II for decades, and now also feature King Charles III on their banknotes, the United States has never, and we should not now, mint circulating currency with images of currently elected officials.”

On November 18, the U.S. Mint published draft designs for the Semiquincentennial $1 Coin, which include three different portrait options placing President Trump on the front of the coin.

The Senators continue: “A portrait of President Trump is the only CCAC proposed design option for the semiquincentennial $1 coin, all but confirming the U.S. Mint intends to mint a circulating coin with a portrait of President Trump while he is in office. Putting an image of President Trump on a circulating coin is not only inconsistent with congressional intent to honor 250 years of United States’ history, but also un-American. We should not depict a living, current president on U.S. currency.”

In addition to Wyden, the letter was signed by Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.).

Merkley has continually pushed to end public corruption, including leading a bipartisan bill that would prevent lawmakers from trading stocks and legislation to crack down on cryptocurrency-related corruption by elected officials at the highest levels of the federal government. He and Wyden have also long championed efforts to crack down on dark money in politics.

Read the full letter by clicking here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-boozman-and-19-colleagues-introduce-resolution-condemning-bahai-oppression-in-iran,"Wyden, Boozman, and 19 Colleagues Introduce Resolution Condemning Baha’i Oppression in Iran",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"The Iranian Baha'i community is the largest religious minority in Iran, with more than 300,000 members

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Senator John Boozman, R-Ark., today led 19 Senate colleagues in introducing a bipartisan resolution condemning Iran’s government for persecuting members of the Baha’i faith.

“The Iranian government has squeezed every freedom from members of the Baha’i community,” Wyden said. “Imprisoning and torturing Baha’is and taking away their rights is immoral, unjust, and just plain wrong. The Baha'i community in Iran deserves to freely practice their religion without fear of state-sponsored persecution. I will not stop making it loud and clear that we will not stand for any part of Iran's full-scale attack on the Baha'i community.”

“The persecution of members of the Baha’i community in Iran remains alarming and disturbing,” Boozman said. “As Americans, we are blessed with religious freedom and stand with members of the Baha’i faith in their pursuit of this fundamental principle. This resolution reaffirms our commitment to their cause and solidarity against efforts to repress minority religious expression.”

“The Iranian government’s relentless assault on its Baha’i minority is an outrage that demands immediate action,” Schakowsky said. “We are reintroducing this bipartisan resolution, which passed the House of Representatives last Congress, to send a strong, unified message from the United States to the government of Iran condemning its grave human rights abuses. The United States and our allies must use every diplomatic tool available to hold Iran accountable and put a stop to this hate-fueled campaign once and for all.”

“The Iranian regime’s assault on the peaceful Baha'i community is abhorrent and must be condemned by leaders across the free world,” McCaul said. “I’m proud to have helped this resolution pass the House and look forward to the Senate following suit. Together, on a bipartisan and bicameral basis, the United States Congress is sending a clear message that we stand with the Baha’i community and will not tolerate Iran's efforts to silence, intimidate, and persecute members of the Baha’i faith.”

Rep. Jan Schakowsky, D-Il., and Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, are leading companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The Iranian government refuses to recognize Baha’is and continues to persecute them by seizing their personal property, denying their access to education and employment, and detaining them based only on their religious beliefs, according to human rights observers and the U.S. State Department.

The Iranian government’s reprehensible persecution of its Baha’i minority is a continued violation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. In addition to denouncing the Iranian government’s oppression of the Baha’i community, Wyden and Boozman’s resolution calls on Iran to immediately release imprisoned Baha’is and put an end to its state-sponsored hate campaign against them. The resolution encourages the U.S. president and secretary of state to condemn Iran’s continued rights violations and imposes sanctions on Iranian government officials who are responsible for those abuses.

Wyden has a longtime history in the Senate of standing up for free expression and human rights around the world. He has introduced a resolution in support of Iran’s Baha’is every year since 2009.

The legislation is cosponsored by Senators John Boozman, R-Ark., Dick Durbin, D-Ill., John Hickenlooper, D-Colo., Tim Kaine, D-Va., Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., Chris Coons, D-Del., Peter Welch, D-Vt., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., Deb Fischer, R-Neb., Mike Crapo, R-Idaho., Chris Murphy D-Conn, and Jeanne Shaheen-D-N.H.

The text of the resolution is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/cortez-masto-merkley-lead-colleagues-in-urging-secretary-bessent-to-reject-proposed-dollar-coin-designs-featuring-donald-trump/,"Cortez Masto, Merkley Lead Colleagues in Urging Secretary Bessent to Reject Proposed Dollar Coin Designs Featuring Donald Trump",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) led seven Senate Democrats in a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent calling on him to reject the proposed designs for the Semiquincentennial dollar coin featuring the likeness of President Donald Trump.

“American lawmakers throughout history have reaffirmed the time-honored tradition of not circulating U.S. currency with images of currently elected officials,” wrote the Senators. “For centuries, minting sitting presidents on U.S. currency has been avoided to prevent the appearance that the U.S. is a monarchy or subject to a cult of personality. While the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia have featured images of former Queen Elizabeth II for decades, and now also feature King Charles III on their banknotes, the United States has never, and we should not now, mint circulating currency with images of currently elected officials.”

On November 18, the U.S. Mint published draft designs for the Semiquincentennial $1 Coin, which include three different portrait options placing President Trump on the front of the coin. The Senators continue: “A portrait of President Trump is the only CCAC proposed design option for the semiquincentennial $1 coin, all but confirming the U.S. Mint intends to mint a circulating coin with a portrait of President Trump while he is in office. Putting an image of President Trump on a circulating coin is not only inconsistent with congressional intent to honor 250 years of United States’ history, but also un-American. We should not depict a living, current president on U.S. currency.”

Read the full letter here. Additional signatories include Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

Cortez Masto has continually pushed to end public corruption, including supporting legislation that would prevent lawmakers from trading stocks and legislation to crack down on cryptocurrency-related corruption by elected officials at the highest levels of the federal government. Cortez Masto has long championed actions to crack down on dark money in politics. She has cosponsored legislation to require organizations spending money in federal elections to disclose their donors and help guard against hidden foreign influence in our democracy.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-klobuchar-heinrich-colleagues-trump-staffing-cuts-at-forest-service-threatening-wildfire-prevention-efforts-across-the-u-s/,"Merkley, Klobuchar, Heinrich, Colleagues: Trump Staffing Cuts at Forest Service Threatening Wildfire Prevention Efforts Across the U.S.",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Senate Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee Ranking Member Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Martin Heinrich (D-NM) led 9 Senators to demand urgent answers from U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz regarding the agency’s wildfire risk reduction efforts across the West and nation.

Their inquiry follows an independent analysis of publicly available data indicating that the Forest Service is approximately 38 percent behind on hazardous fuels reduction work, as compared to the previous four calendar years.

The Senators wrote to Forest Service Chief Schultz, “You have continued to maintain that the Forest Service has adequate resources and staffing to manage wildfire preparedness and response on federal lands, and that, while the Forest Service is significantly behind on hazardous fuels reduction work overall, there have been more positive results in certain regions like the Pacific Northwest. You have also claimed that in certain Western states, the Forest Service has even exceeded annual hazardous fuels reduction goals. However, it appears that to make these claims, you are referencing all Fiscal Year 2025 data, which began under the Biden Administration and includes five months of work prior to the beginning of the Trump Administration and its mass staff firings, forced retirements, and unnecessary pauses on projects.”

This latest letter follows a series of actions by Merkley, Klobuchar, and Heinrich to sound the alarm over funding freezes and staffing cuts at the Forest Service that have undermined critical wildfire mitigation work across the United States.

“The steep decline in hazardous fuels reduction efforts on Forest Service lands poses a serious risk to public safety, public health, and the economy. It is imperative that the Forest Service works closely with Congress to address shortfalls in wildfire mitigation and ensure staffing and budgetary resources are sufficient to fulfill the agency’s mission,” the Senators directed.

Merkley, Klobuchar, and Heinrich’s letter was signed by U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Adam Schiff (D-CA).

Full text of the letter can be found by clicking here and follows below:

Dear Chief Schultz:

We write with significant concerns regarding the persistent wildland firefighter staffing shortages at the U.S. Forest Service, leading to a significant decline in planned wildfire prevention work in high-risk, fire-prone areas. We are asking you to provide clear answers regarding the Forest Service’s efforts to ensure adequate staffing and reduce wildfire risk in the West during this challenging fire season.

You have continued to maintain that the Forest Service has adequate resources and staffing to manage wildfire preparedness and response on federal lands, and that, while the Forest Service is significantly behind on hazardous fuels reduction work overall, there have been more positive results in certain regions like the Pacific Northwest. You have also claimed that in certain Western states, the Forest Service has even exceeded annual hazardous fuels reduction goals. However, it appears that to make these claims, you are referencing all Fiscal Year 2025 data, which began under the Biden Administration and includes five months of work prior to the beginning of the Trump Administration and its mass staff firings, forced retirements, and unnecessary pauses on projects.

An analysis of publicly available data indicates that for calendar year 2025 the Forest Service is significantly behind in hazardous fuels reduction across National Forest System lands. When compared to the previous four calendar years, there has been a 38% reduction in wildfire risk reduction in 2025. Through September of calendar year 2025, only 1.7 million acres received hazardous fuels reduction treatment, a decline from the four-year average of 3.6 million acres. Additionally, as of this summer, as many as 27% of Forest Service wildland firefighting positions remained vacant.

The steep decline in hazardous fuels reduction efforts on Forest Service lands poses a serious risk to public safety, public health, and the economy. It is imperative that the Forest Service works closely with Congress to address shortfalls in wildfire mitigation and ensure staffing and budgetary resources are sufficient to fulfill the agency’s mission.

Please provide answers to the following questions as soon as possible, but not later than December 12, 2025:

How many full-time wildland firefighter and other hazardous fuel reduction personnel, including those with “red cards,” were employed at the beginning of FY 2025?

What are the current staffing levels for wildland firefighters and other hazardous fuels reduction personnel within the U.S. Forest Service?

Are those staffing levels sufficient to conduct the necessary amount of hazardous fuels reduction on National Forest System lands by the end of calendar year 2025?

What is the Forest Service plan to fill vacant wildland firefighting positions?

You have publicly stated that the agency has “the staffing‐levels and resources necessary to adequately prepare for and respond to wildfires.” What evidence do you have (and can you provide) that your staffing levels are sufficient given the current wildfire risk environment?

What was the total number of acres treated by the Forest Service in FY 2025 for hazardous fuels reduction (mechanical thinning, prescribed burn, brush clearing) and how does that compare to the target set at the beginning of the year and to the average for FY 2021–2024?

What is the total number of acres treated by the Forest Service in calendar year (CY) 2025 to date for hazardous fuels reduction (mechanical thinning, prescribed burn, brush clearing) and how does that compare to the target set at the beginning of the year and to the average for CY 2021-2024?

What percentage of Forest Service hazardous fuels treatment projects in FY 2025 and in CY 2025 (to date) were delayed, cancelled, or reduced in scale relative to plan, and what were the primary reasons for such “operational challenges”?

How are treatment priorities set (i.e., certain forests, risk levels, proximity to communities) and how has that priority‐setting changed (if at all) in recent years given increasing wildfire risk?

In the regions/states where treatment is < 30-40 % of the four‐year average (e.g., Idaho, Montana, Oregon), what is being done differently (or will be done) to bring those areas back on track?

How has reduced staffing affected interagency coordination with state, local, and tribal firefighting partners?

Has reduced federal capacity affected collaborative fuel treatment projects (mechanical thinning and prescribed burning) with tribal, state, or local partners?

Will you commit to providing Congress a quarterly update detailing: authorized vs. filled crew positions, number of vacancies, acres treated (by region/state), funding expended, number of delayed/cancelled projects with reasons, contractor usage and costs?

Will you commit to providing Congress a quarterly update detailing hazardous fuels reduction efforts on National Forest System lands?

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-press-dhs-on-obstruction-of-congressional-visits-to-detention-facilities,"Wyden, Colleagues Press DHS on Obstruction of Congressional Visits to Detention Facilities",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,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 has joined Senate colleagues to question the Department of Homeland Security about obstruction of congressional access to detention facilities.

“Obstructing Congressional access to immigration detention facilities violates Federal law and undermines Congress’s inherent authority to conduct oversight that ensures detained individuals’ human rights and protects Americans from agency waste, fraud, and abuse,” the senators wrote to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

Since the beginning of 2025, there have been numerous, publicly reported examples of members of Congress and their staff facing obstructed access to ICE facilities nationwide, including to ICE field offices where people are being detained.

“Members of Congress and their staff must be allowed, pursuant to Congress’s inherent oversight authority and as required by Federal law, to access any facility where individuals are held in federal custody to monitor and prevent these abuses and ensure accountability and compliance with standards for detention,” the senators concluded.

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff, D-Ga. In addition to Wyden, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., John Hickenlooper, D-Colo., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Reverend Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., and Angela Alsobrooks, D-Md.

Wyden has been a champion for due process and government transparency. In November, Wyden led his Oregon colleagues to demand answers from the Trump administration questions about reports that the Department of Homeland Security relocated an essential Coast Guard helicopter away from Newport, and is planning to build an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility in this small Oregon Coast town. Wyden also called for transparency in light of troubling reports detailing secretive immigration enforcement actions regarding ICE Air Operations, including inhumane treatment of immigrants in government custody. In October, Wyden led his colleagues to demand Trump withdraw National Guard troops from Portland. In September, Wyden conducted an oversight visit at the Portland ICE facility with other members of Oregon’s congressional delegation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/bynum-along-with-merkley-defends-community-engagement-on-detroit-lake-drawdown-proposal/,"Bynum, along with Merkley, Defends Community Engagement on Detroit Lake Drawdown Proposal",2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05) led Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) in requesting additional time for community engagement on the proposed drawdown of Detroit Lake. Specifically, the members called for a 45-day extension on the public comment period for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement. The members expressed concern that the current 45-day period, which overlaps with the holidays, will inhibit the ability of constituents in impacted communities to robustly engage with this proposal.

“While a 45-day comment period is already a relatively short timeline for a document like this, the currently scheduled comment window also spans Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Hanukkah, among others,” the Members wrote. “These weeks are among the most challenging of the year for public participation, as reduced staffing, competing obligations, and widespread travel mean most Oregonians are far more concerned about weather delays and family recipes than comment periods. The combined effect of a shortened timeline and a holiday-dominated review period will significantly hinder the ability of Oregonians to provide thoughtful and informed feedback.”

Full text of the letter is available by clicking here and below:

Dear Lieutenant General Graham,

We write to respectfully request a 45-day extension of the public comment period for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE) Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) regarding operations of the Detroit Dam within Oregon’s Willamette Valley System. The draft SEIS was released on November 14, with the comment period closing on December 29. We urge the Corps to provide a longer and more accessible comment window that will allow meaningful and informed public engagement on this highly impactful document.

The SEIS is both lengthy and technically complex, addressing issues that directly affect drinking water quality, economic stability, and public health across several communities in the Santiam Canyon and Willamette Valley. Recent experience with deep drawdown operations, including those at Green Peter Reservoir, have revealed the potential for extensive turbidity, severe impacts to drinking water systems, and significant economic losses for surrounding communities. These concerns underscore the importance of ensuring that residents, local governments, Tribal governments, utility providers, business owners, and other stakeholders have sufficient time to review and respond to this SEIS.

While a 45-day comment period is already a relatively short timeline for a document like this, the currently scheduled comment window also spans the Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Hanukkah, among others. These weeks are among the most challenging of the year for public participation, as reduced staffing, competing obligations, and widespread travel mean most Oregonians are far more concerned about weather delays and family recipes than comment periods. The combined effect of a shortened timeline and a holiday-dominated review period will significantly hinder the ability of Oregonians to provide thoughtful and informed feedback.

Given the anticipated impacts of potential operational changes at Detroit Dam, including those related to drinking water for more than 200,000 downstream residents, the Kokanee fishery, and economic conditions in the Santiam Canyon, it is essential that the review process maximize transparency and accessibility. A reasonable extension of the comment period would help accomplish this goal and ensure that the Corps receives the robust, substantive input needed to support a well-informed decision.

Accordingly, we respectfully request that the USACE extend the comment period by an additional 45-days to provide stakeholders with adequate time to fully assess the SEIS and prepare comprehensive comments. We believe this extension is both necessary and in the public Interest.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. We look forward to continued collaboration to ensure that the management of the Willamette Valley System supports the recovery of endangered fish species while also meeting the needs, safety, and well-being of Oregonians and the communities they call home.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-wyden-fighting-to-reverse-snap-cuts-and-restore-food-security-for-millions-of-americans/,"Merkley, Wyden Fighting to Reverse SNAP Cuts and Restore Food Security for Millions of Americans",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – After Trump and Congressional Republicans earlier this year passed their ‘Big, Ugly BETRAYAL’ of a budget bill that will let millions of families go hungry, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley led the entire Senate Democratic Caucus—including Oregon’s U.S. Senator Ron Wyden—in introducing the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act of 2025. This legislation would repeal all the devastating cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) made by Congressional Republicans and Donald Trump.

Congress has upheld a 50-year bipartisan commitment that Americans should not go hungry, but the Republican budget bill breaks that promise with the largest SNAP cuts in history. To fund tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy, Congressional Republicans approved cuts that the Congressional Budget Office estimates will eliminate $187 billion in food assistance over the next decade, even as grocery prices rise and President Trump’s tariff costs increase. These Republican cuts will take meals from millions of Americans, including children, seniors, veterans, workers, and people with disabilities, while harming farmers, ranchers, small businesses, and grocers who rely on SNAP dollars. Additionally, the Republicans’ ‘Big, Ugly’ bill creates a massive unfunded mandate on state governments that could force deep cuts and jeopardize the long-term stability of SNAP.

“Children, seniors, and low-income families will go hungry because of the Republican cuts to SNAP. This is yet another heartbreaking consequence of the Republican agenda to fund tax breaks for the ultrarich while working families struggle,” said Merkley. “Under Trump, it is always the red carpet for billionaires and red tape for families. I’ll keep fighting to reverse these devastating cuts.”

“Donald Trump and his Republican enablers in Congress have made it painfully clear that they’ll weaponize food in pursuit of every last opportunity to enrich billionaires even further,” said Wyden. “At a time when American families should be thinking about Thanksgiving meals, Trump snatching access to food away from millions of children, seniors and families is simply unconscionable. These barriers to access food must be removed.”

SNAP is a lifeline for over 42 million Americans, including 16 million children, 8 million seniors, 4 million people with disabilities, and 1.2 million veterans. Approximately 757,000 Oregonians rely on SNAP benefits to feed their families. This includes 130,000 seniors and 210,000 children across the state.

Merkley led the legislation with U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). U.S. Representatives Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.) and Angie Craig (D-Minn.) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

In addition to Wyden, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).

The full text of the legislation can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-fighting-to-reverse-snap-cuts-and-restore-food-security-for-millions-of-americans,"Merkley, Wyden Fighting to Reverse SNAP Cuts and Restore Food Security for Millions of Americans",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – After Trump and Congressional Republicans earlier this year passed their ‘Big, Ugly BETRAYAL’ of a budget bill that will let millions of families go hungry, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley led the entire Senate Democratic Caucus—including Oregon’s U.S. Senator Ron Wyden—in introducing the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act of 2025. This legislation would repeal all the devastating cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) made by Congressional Republicans and Donald Trump.

Congress has upheld a 50-year bipartisan commitment that Americans should not go hungry, but the Republican budget bill breaks that promise with the largest SNAP cuts in history. To fund tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy, Congressional Republicans approved cuts that the Congressional Budget Office estimates will eliminate $187 billion in food assistance over the next decade, even as grocery prices rise and President Trump’s tariff costs increase. These Republican cuts will take meals from millions of Americans, including children, seniors, veterans, workers, and people with disabilities, while harming farmers, ranchers, small businesses, and grocers who rely on SNAP dollars. Additionally, the Republicans’ ‘Big, Ugly’ bill creates a massive unfunded mandate on state governments that could force deep cuts and jeopardize the long-term stability of SNAP.

“Children, seniors, and low-income families will go hungry because of the Republican cuts to SNAP. This is yet another heartbreaking consequence of the Republican agenda to fund tax breaks for the ultrarich while working families struggle,” said Merkley. “Under Trump, it is always the red carpet for billionaires and red tape for families. I’ll keep fighting to reverse these devastating cuts.”

“Donald Trump and his Republican enablers in Congress have made it painfully clear that they’ll weaponize food in pursuit of every last opportunity to enrich billionaires even further,” said Wyden. “At a time when American families should be thinking about Thanksgiving meals, Trump snatching access to food away from millions of children, seniors and families is simply unconscionable. These barriers to access food must be removed.”

SNAP is a lifeline for over 42 million Americans, including 16 million children, 8 million seniors, 4 million people with disabilities, and 1.2 million veterans. Approximately 757,000 Oregonians rely on SNAP benefits to feed their families. This includes 130,000 seniors and 210,000 children across the state.

Merkley led the legislation with U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). U.S. Representatives Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.) and Angie Craig (D-Minn.) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

In addition to Wyden, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/blackburn-merkley-urge-fifa-to-recognize-afghan-women-united-as-afghanistans-womens-football-team/,"Blackburn, Merkley Urge FIFA to Recognize Afghan Women United as Afghanistan’s Women’s Football Team",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"‘Despite [FIFA’s] stated human rights standards, the body has too often failed to enforce them consistently’

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) sent a letter to the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) President Gianni Infantino urging FIFA to formally recognize Afghan Women’s United as Afghanistan’s national women’s football team and to stop the Taliban from erasing Afghan women from international competition. Their letter calls on FIFA to enforce its human rights commitments and ensure these athletes can continue representing the women of Afghanistan on the world stage.

FIFA Must Recognize Afghan Women United as Afghanistan’s National Women’s Football Team

“We write to urge the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) to take decisive action to formally recognize Afghan Women United as Afghanistan’s national women’s football team and to ensure that Afghan women athletes are not erased from international competition by the Taliban’s repressive regime. These players have continued to train and compete in exile despite being banned from their own country. FIFA’s support and recognition are essential to safeguard their right to play and to uphold the integrity of the sport.”

The Afghan Women’s Team, Now in Exile, Has Shown Extraordinary Courage

“Since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021, women and girls in Afghanistan have been stripped of their most basic freedoms, including the right to receive an education, travel freely, and participate in sports. Yet, the Afghan women’s team, now in exile, has shown extraordinary courage and perseverance by continuing to train, compete, and represent the spirit of their nation under unimaginably difficult circumstances. Their recent participation in a FIFA-supported tournament marked a powerful symbol of hope, but it also underscored a glaring truth: without formal recognition and consistent opportunities to compete, these women remain sidelined from the international stage. FIFA’s creation of an Afghan women’s refugee squad was an important step forward, but the players’ ultimate goal is to represent Afghanistan as their national women’s football team, and that goal remains unfulfilled.”

FIFA Must Honor Its Commitment to Upholding Human Rights Standards

“FIFA’s own statutes commit the organization to upholding human rights and promoting non-discrimination in sport. Those commitments must extend to the Afghan women who have lost their federation, their home field, and their right to play. One day, these brave athletes will hopefully be able to safely return home to play free from the repression of the Taliban. Until then, FIFA should ensure that they can continue to represent the millions of Afghan women who have either been forced to flee or remain under the Taliban’s brutal rule. FIFA has tools at its disposal. Yet despite its stated human rights standards, the body has too often failed to enforce them consistently. It should investigate Taliban-controlled the Afghan Football Federation for violations of those standards and consider restricting funding and access for federations that bar women from sport. Additionally, FIFA should take concrete action to recognize Afghan Women United as Afghanistan’s official national women’s football team, consistent with precedents in other contested or politically complex contexts.”

Click here to read the full letter.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-wyden-join-88-lawmakers-in-urging-protection-of-electric-vehicle-investments-in-bipartisan-surface-transportation-negotiations/,"Merkley, Wyden Join 88 Lawmakers in Urging Protection of Electric Vehicle Investments in Bipartisan Surface Transportation Negotiations",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today joined 88 lawmakers in pushing leaders on the Senate Environment and Public Works and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committees to protect electric vehicle (EV) investments while reauthorizing bipartisan surface transportation legislation.

The lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting a similar bipartisan surface transportation process to the historic passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, but they stressed that the reauthorization cannot truly be bipartisan if it doesn’t meaningfully address America’s transportation needs and fails to support EVs. Since taking office, the Trump Administration has sought to dismantle federal EV programs, including freezing the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program and rolling back other Congressionally authorized initiatives.

The lawmakers emphasized that bipartisan programs like NEVI, the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) discretionary grant program, the Carbon Reduction Program, the Reduction of Truck Emissions at Port Facilities (RTEPF) program, and the Low or No Emission Grant Program (Low No) expand consumer choice, create American jobs, lower costs, and strengthen U.S. competitiveness. They warned that undermining EV programs puts significant economic and workforce gains at risk, while undermining long-term planning and ceding progress on EVs to China.

“The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) represented a historic investment in strengthening and building out our national infrastructure. We have a unique opportunity to not only reauthorize this foundation but bolster many of the highly popular and effective transportation programs authorized by the IIJA,” wrote the lawmakers in their letter. “Attempts to eliminate investments in cleaner transportation run counter to the cooperative spirit this process depends on. While we understand that reforms may be necessary and that legislating inherently requires compromise, we urge you to ensure that this reauthorization process does not take a partisan tenor replete with extraordinary attempts to undercut zero-emission technologies, investments, and American innovation.”

“Eliminating dedicated investments in EV and alternative fueling technologies would represent a departure from the bipartisan cooperation that has always driven surface transportation legislation,” concluded the lawmakers. “We remain committed to advancing American transportation innovation, safety, and excellence, and we hope the reauthorization process will maintain that same spirit of partnership.”

More than $200 billion has been invested in domestic EV manufacturing capacity since 2022, expected to create over 160,000 jobs across the country in charging manufacturing alone. These investments have been made on a bipartisan basis: 22 of the 25 Congressional districts with the greatest share of EV manufacturing capacity investment are represented by Republicans.

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Representative Sharice Davids (D-Kan.-03).

CALSTART and the Zero Emission Transportation Association (ZETA) expressed their strong support for the lawmakers’ letter.

“The Infrastructure, Investment, and Jobs Act delivered transformative investments to accelerate the low- and no-emission vehicle industry. These investments have created jobs, improved public health, and strengthened the global competitiveness of the U.S. transportation sector as advanced vehicle technologies rapidly grow worldwide,” said CALSTART Head of Policy, Trisha DelloIacono. “We applaud the congressional leaders who signed this letter and who recognize the need to build on the progress initiated in 2021. These members understand that continued investment in a diverse mix of fueling and vehicle technologies is essential to maintaining – and expanding – America’s share of the global transportation market. CALSTART looks forward to working with Congress as this legislation advances and to ensuring members understand the importance of including electrification funding in the next infrastructure package.”

“Negotiations for the surface reauthorization bill have a long history of bipartisan collaboration that has resulted in many popular programs and initiatives to modernize and advance transportation in the United States,” said Albert Gore, Executive Director of the Zero Emission Transportation Association. “This has included creating an investment-friendly environment that has resulted in billions of dollars worth of investment in our nation’s EV and battery supply chains that are expected to create more than 160,000 new manufacturing jobs. It has also included investments in our nation’s infrastructure to expand the charging network and help millions of drivers choose electric transportation. As members of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure move forward with negotiations for the upcoming bill to reauthorize surface transportation programs, we appreciate this letter highlighting the importance of continued public policy to support ongoing investment in the U.S. and the drivers that are choosing alternative drivetrains.”

Full text of the letter is available here and below:

Dear Chair Capito, Ranking Member Whitehouse, Chairman Graves and Ranking Member Larsen,

As the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Senate Environment and Public Works Committee develop the surface transportation reauthorization bill, we write to reaffirm our commitment to the bipartisan collaboration these committees are known for. At the same time, we want to make clear that a reauthorization bill that undermines critical investments in zero-emission vehicles and associated charging and fueling infrastructure would not meet the standard of bipartisan cooperation that has always driven surface transportation legislation. This process should begin with upholding the agreements made in the last authorization bill and safeguard congressionally authorized and appropriated funding from rescission, reprogramming, or impoundment – particularly when it comes to vehicle electrification programs.

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) represented a historic investment in strengthening and building out our national infrastructure. We have a unique opportunity to not only reauthorize this foundation but bolster many of the highly popular and effective transportation programs authorized by the IIJA. Attempts to eliminate investments in cleaner transportation run counter to the cooperative spirit this process depends on. While we understand that reforms may be necessary and that legislating inherently requires compromise, we urge you to ensure that this reauthorization process does not take a partisan tenor replete with extraordinary attempts to undercut zero-emission technologies, investments, and American innovation.

Programs like the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) discretionary grant program, the Carbon Reduction Program, the Reduction of Truck Emissions at Port Facilities (RTEPF), and the Low or No Emission Grant Program (Low No) were the product of bipartisan negotiation. They expand consumer choice, reduce costs, and strengthen U.S. leadership in transportation technology. None of these programs or the projects they fund constitute a mandate. In fact, programs like NEVI and CFI provide the roadway infrastructure needed to refuel or recharge advanced vehicles, enabling consumers to choose vehicles that best meet their needs without being constrained by range anxiety or refueling gaps. The CFI program in particular supports refueling infrastructure for a range of technologies, including hydrogen, electric, natural gas, and propane. Eliminating or repurposing funding for these programs would undercut the multi-year bipartisan surface reauthorization process, which is essential to giving states and localities the stability they need to plan long-term infrastructure projects. That stability is lost when Congress cedes its constitutional powers to the Executive Branch.

Federal investments in electric vehicles (EVs) have also created well-paying American manufacturing, construction, and maintenance jobs, reinforced by the existing strong Build America, Buy America requirements. Since 2022, more than $200 billion has been invested in domestic EV manufacturing capacity. Notably, 22 of the 25 congressional districts with the greatest share of this investment are represented by Republicans. These projects are expected to create over 160,000 jobs in charging manufacturing alone. Stripping financial support for the infrastructure that sustains these industries jeopardizes both the success of these investments and the economic mobility of our constituents. Moreover, abandoning these commitments cedes the industries of the future to China and undermines American competitiveness in the global economy.

We urge your committees to approach surface transportation negotiations collaboratively, incorporating and standing by key priorities from both sides of the aisle. However, eliminating dedicated investments in EV and alternative fueling technologies would represent a departure from the bipartisan cooperation that has always driven surface transportation legislation. We remain committed to advancing American transportation innovation, safety, and excellence, and we hope the reauthorization process will maintain that same spirit of partnership.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-wyden-western-senators-call-for-emergency-funding-for-wildfire-recovery-on-federal-lands/,"Merkley, Wyden, Western Senators Call for Emergency Funding for Wildfire Recovery on Federal Lands",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden joined fellow Western Senators to urge Congress to pass additional funding to support wildfire recovery on federal lands. In a letter to Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) and Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA), the Senators pressed for additional resources to help National Parks, National Forests, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands recover from this year’s devastating wildfires. Since damage to federal lands is not covered by FEMA funding, federal land agencies are responsible for cleanup and restoration on their own.

The letter was led by U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and in addition to Merkley and Wyden, signed by Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV).

“We write to request that any emergency disaster appropriations bills drafted this year include funding for wildfire recovery on federal lands,” the Senators wrote. “Repairing wildfire damages to National Parks, National Forests, and Bureau of Land Management Lands is vital for the safety and economies of the entire country. Just as our forests and parks require restoration, so too do the surrounding counties and communities that bear the economic and infrastructure impacts of these disasters; their recovery is inseparable from that of the federal lands themselves.”

Specifically, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area in Oregon, North Rim of the Grand Canyon and the Kaibab National Forest in Arizona, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado, Joshua Tree National Park in California, and Gila National Forest in New Mexico all suffered wildfires this year. Nearly one million acres of BLM land burned across the West in 2025 alone.

“As you know, unlike wildfire response activities on state, tribal, or private lands which are coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), wildfire response on federal land is managed by the land agencies themselves. In the past, Congress has appropriated the funds our public land agencies require for their critical response, remediation, and mitigation activities,” the Senators continued. “Ensuring that federal lands are restored after wildfires is a responsibility to our shared, national heritage.”

Read the full letter HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/wyden-merkley-demand-trump-administration-cleanup-toxic-waste-to-protect-military-families-and-local-communities/,"Wyden, Merkley Demand Trump Administration Cleanup Toxic Waste to Protect Military Families and Local Communities",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they have joined their colleagues in urging the Trump administration to reverse its decision delaying cleanups of toxic chemicals at hundreds of military installations in Oregon and nationwide.

The senators also sought protections for military families and nearby communities from contamination by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at the affected sites.

“For years, communities contaminated by PFAS from nearby DOD installations in our states have waited for the DOD to take action. We request that the Department reverse its decision, return to the previous timetable released in December 2024, and accelerate efforts to remediate confirmed PFAS contamination,” the senators wrote in their letter to Department of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

PFAS chemicals are widespread and found at industrial sites and around many U.S. military installations. PFAS exposure is linked to major health problems, including various cancers, reduced immune function, reproductive challenges, birth defects, thyroid issues, and more. The use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam at Department of Defense (DOD) facilities, and related stormwater runoff, is a significant source of drinking water pollution. This contamination poses a serious health threat to service members, their families, and nearby communities.

At least 700 military sites in the United States are known or suspected to have PFAS contamination from DOD activities. DOD’s delayed timeline would push back cleanup at 150 of these locations, by nearly a decade at some.

In total, these four military installations in Oregon are likely to be affected by DOD’s decision, as they are being assessed for PFAS use and release:

McNary Field Salem Army Aviation Support Facility

Camp Rilea

Pendleton Complex Armory Army Aviation Support Facility

Umatilla Chemical Depot

Alongside Wyden and Merkley, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., led the letter and was joined by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Senators Angela Alsobrooks, D-Md., Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Dick Durbin, D-Ill., John Fetterman, D-Pa., Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., John Hickenlooper, D-Colo., Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., Andy Kim, D-N.J., Angus King, I-Maine, Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Gary Peters, D-Mich., Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, Adam Schiff, D-Calif., Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., and Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.

The full letter is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-join-88-lawmakers-in-urging-protection-of-electric-vehicle-investments-in-bipartisan-surface-transportation-negotiations,"Merkley, Wyden Join 88 Lawmakers in Urging Protection of Electric Vehicle Investments in Bipartisan Surface Transportation Negotiations",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,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 joined 88 lawmakers in pushing leaders on the Senate Environment and Public Works and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committees to protect electric vehicle (EV) investments while reauthorizing bipartisan surface transportation legislation.

The lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting a similar bipartisan surface transportation process to the historic passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, but they stressed that the reauthorization cannot truly be bipartisan if it doesn’t meaningfully address America's transportation needs and fails to support EVs. Since taking office, the Trump Administration has sought to dismantle federal EV programs, including freezing the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program and rolling back other Congressionally authorized initiatives.

The lawmakers emphasized that bipartisan programs like NEVI, the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) discretionary grant program, the Carbon Reduction Program, the Reduction of Truck Emissions at Port Facilities (RTEPF) program, and the Low or No Emission Grant Program (Low No) expand consumer choice, create American jobs, lower costs, and strengthen U.S. competitiveness. They warned that undermining EV programs puts significant economic and workforce gains at risk, while undermining long-term planning and ceding progress on EVs to China.

“The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) represented a historic investment in strengthening and building out our national infrastructure. We have a unique opportunity to not only reauthorize this foundation but bolster many of the highly popular and effective transportation programs authorized by the IIJA,” wrote the lawmakers in their letter. “Attempts to eliminate investments in cleaner transportation run counter to the cooperative spirit this process depends on. While we understand that reforms may be necessary and that legislating inherently requires compromise, we urge you to ensure that this reauthorization process does not take a partisan tenor replete with extraordinary attempts to undercut zero-emission technologies, investments, and American innovation.”

“Eliminating dedicated investments in EV and alternative fueling technologies would represent a departure from the bipartisan cooperation that has always driven surface transportation legislation,” concluded the lawmakers. “We remain committed to advancing American transportation innovation, safety, and excellence, and we hope the reauthorization process will maintain that same spirit of partnership.”

More than $200 billion has been invested in domestic EV manufacturing capacity since 2022, expected to create over 160,000 jobs across the country in charging manufacturing alone. These investments have been made on a bipartisan basis: 22 of the 25 Congressional districts with the greatest share of EV manufacturing capacity investment are represented by Republicans.

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Representative Sharice Davids (D-Kan.-03).

CALSTART and the Zero Emission Transportation Association (ZETA) expressed their strong support for the lawmakers’ letter.

“The Infrastructure, Investment, and Jobs Act delivered transformative investments to accelerate the low- and no-emission vehicle industry. These investments have created jobs, improved public health, and strengthened the global competitiveness of the U.S. transportation sector as advanced vehicle technologies rapidly grow worldwide,” said CALSTART Head of Policy, Trisha DelloIacono. “We applaud the congressional leaders who signed this letter and who recognize the need to build on the progress initiated in 2021. These members understand that continued investment in a diverse mix of fueling and vehicle technologies is essential to maintaining – and expanding – America's share of the global transportation market. CALSTART looks forward to working with Congress as this legislation advances and to ensuring members understand the importance of including electrification funding in the next infrastructure package.”

“Negotiations for the surface reauthorization bill have a long history of bipartisan collaboration that has resulted in many popular programs and initiatives to modernize and advance transportation in the United States,” said Albert Gore, Executive Director of the Zero Emission Transportation Association. “This has included creating an investment-friendly environment that has resulted in billions of dollars worth of investment in our nation’s EV and battery supply chains that are expected to create more than 160,000 new manufacturing jobs. It has also included investments in our nation’s infrastructure to expand the charging network and help millions of drivers choose electric transportation. As members of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure move forward with negotiations for the upcoming bill to reauthorize surface transportation programs, we appreciate this letter highlighting the importance of continued public policy to support ongoing investment in the U.S. and the drivers that are choosing alternative drivetrains.”

Full text of the letter is available here and below:

Dear Chair Capito, Ranking Member Whitehouse, Chairman Graves and Ranking Member Larsen,

As the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Senate Environment and Public Works Committee develop the surface transportation reauthorization bill, we write to reaffirm our commitment to the bipartisan collaboration these committees are known for. At the same time, we want to make clear that a reauthorization bill that undermines critical investments in zero-emission vehicles and associated charging and fueling infrastructure would not meet the standard of bipartisan cooperation that has always driven surface transportation legislation. This process should begin with upholding the agreements made in the last authorization bill and safeguard congressionally authorized and appropriated funding from rescission, reprogramming, or impoundment – particularly when it comes to vehicle electrification programs.

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) represented a historic investment in strengthening and building out our national infrastructure. We have a unique opportunity to not only reauthorize this foundation but bolster many of the highly popular and effective transportation programs authorized by the IIJA. Attempts to eliminate investments in cleaner transportation run counter to the cooperative spirit this process depends on. While we understand that reforms may be necessary and that legislating inherently requires compromise, we urge you to ensure that this reauthorization process does not take a partisan tenor replete with extraordinary attempts to undercut zero-emission technologies, investments, and American innovation.

Programs like the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) discretionary grant program, the Carbon Reduction Program, the Reduction of Truck Emissions at Port Facilities (RTEPF), and the Low or No Emission Grant Program (Low No) were the product of bipartisan negotiation. They expand consumer choice, reduce costs, and strengthen U.S. leadership in transportation technology. None of these programs or the projects they fund constitute a mandate. In fact, programs like NEVI and CFI provide the roadway infrastructure needed to refuel or recharge advanced vehicles, enabling consumers to choose vehicles that best meet their needs without being constrained by range anxiety or refueling gaps. The CFI program in particular supports refueling infrastructure for a range of technologies, including hydrogen, electric, natural gas, and propane. Eliminating or repurposing funding for these programs would undercut the multi-year bipartisan surface reauthorization process, which is essential to giving states and localities the stability they need to plan long-term infrastructure projects. That stability is lost when Congress cedes its constitutional powers to the Executive Branch.

Federal investments in electric vehicles (EVs) have also created well-paying American manufacturing, construction, and maintenance jobs, reinforced by the existing strong Build America, Buy America requirements. Since 2022, more than $200 billion has been invested in domestic EV manufacturing capacity. Notably, 22 of the 25 congressional districts with the greatest share of this investment are represented by Republicans. These projects are expected to create over 160,000 jobs in charging manufacturing alone. Stripping financial support for the infrastructure that sustains these industries jeopardizes both the success of these investments and the economic mobility of our constituents. Moreover, abandoning these commitments cedes the industries of the future to China and undermines American competitiveness in the global economy.

We urge your committees to approach surface transportation negotiations collaboratively, incorporating and standing by key priorities from both sides of the aisle. However, eliminating dedicated investments in EV and alternative fueling technologies would represent a departure from the bipartisan cooperation that has always driven surface transportation legislation. We remain committed to advancing American transportation innovation, safety, and excellence, and we hope the reauthorization process will maintain that same spirit of partnership.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-western-senators-call-for-emergency-funding-for-wildfire-recovery-on-federal-lands,"Merkley, Wyden, Western Senators Call for Emergency Funding for Wildfire Recovery on Federal Lands",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,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 joined fellow Western Senators to urge Congress to pass additional funding to support wildfire recovery on federal lands. In a letter to Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) and Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA), the Senators pressed for additional resources to help National Parks, National Forests, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands recover from this year’s devastating wildfires. Since damage to federal lands is not covered by FEMA funding, federal land agencies are responsible for cleanup and restoration on their own.

The letter was led by U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and in addition to Merkley and Wyden, signed by Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV).

“We write to request that any emergency disaster appropriations bills drafted this year include funding for wildfire recovery on federal lands,” the Senators wrote. “Repairing wildfire damages to National Parks, National Forests, and Bureau of Land Management Lands is vital for the safety and economies of the entire country. Just as our forests and parks require restoration, so too do the surrounding counties and communities that bear the economic and infrastructure impacts of these disasters; their recovery is inseparable from that of the federal lands themselves.”

Specifically, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area in Oregon, North Rim of the Grand Canyon and the Kaibab National Forest in Arizona, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado, Joshua Tree National Park in California, and Gila National Forest in New Mexico all suffered wildfires this year. Nearly one million acres of BLM land burned across the West in 2025 alone.

“As you know, unlike wildfire response activities on state, tribal, or private lands which are coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), wildfire response on federal land is managed by the land agencies themselves. In the past, Congress has appropriated the funds our public land agencies require for their critical response, remediation, and mitigation activities,” the Senators continued. “Ensuring that federal lands are restored after wildfires is a responsibility to our shared, national heritage.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-demand-trump-administration-cleanup-toxic-waste-to-protect-military-families-and-local-communities,"Wyden, Merkley Demand Trump Administration Cleanup Toxic Waste to Protect Military Families and Local Communities",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,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 said today they have joined their colleagues in urging the Trump administration to reverse its decision delaying cleanups of toxic chemicals at hundreds of military installations in Oregon and nationwide.

The senators also sought protections for military families and nearby communities from contamination by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at the affected sites.

“For years, communities contaminated by PFAS from nearby DOD installations in our states have waited for the DOD to take action. We request that the Department reverse its decision, return to the previous timetable released in December 2024, and accelerate efforts to remediate confirmed PFAS contamination,” the senators wrote in their letter to Department of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

PFAS chemicals are widespread and found at industrial sites and around many U.S. military installations. PFAS exposure is linked to major health problems, including various cancers, reduced immune function, reproductive challenges, birth defects, thyroid issues, and more. The use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam at Department of Defense (DOD) facilities, and related stormwater runoff, is a significant source of drinking water pollution. This contamination poses a serious health threat to service members, their families, and nearby communities.

At least 700 military sites in the United States are known or suspected to have PFAS contamination from DOD activities. DOD’s delayed timeline would push back cleanup at 150 of these locations, by nearly a decade at some.

In total, these four military installations in Oregon are likely to be affected by DOD’s decision, as they are being assessed for PFAS use and release:

McNary Field Salam Army Aviation Support Facility

Camp Rilea

Pendleton Complex Armory Army Aviation Support Facility

Umatilla Chemical Depot

Alongside Wyden and Merkley, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., led the letter and was joined by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Senators Angela Alsobrooks, D-Md., Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Dick Durbin, D-Ill., John Fetterman, D-Pa., Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., John Hickenlooper, D-Colo., Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., Andy Kim, D-N.J., Angus King, I-Maine, Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Gary Peters, D-Mich., Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, Adam Schiff, D-Calif., Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., and Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/hoyle-wyden-merkley-and-carbajal-demand-answers-from-coast-guard-on-sudden-removal-of-newport-rescue-helicopter/,"Hoyle, Wyden, Merkley and Carbajal Demand Answers from Coast Guard on Sudden Removal of Newport Rescue Helicopter",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Val Hoyle (OR-04) led a letter with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, as well as Congressman Salud Carbajal (CA-24), the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, demanding immediate answers from the U.S. Coast Guard regarding its decision to remove a rescue helicopter from the Newport Air Facility.

In their letter to Acting Commandant Admiral Kevin E. Lunday, the lawmakers warn that the Coast Guard’s unexplained action, “has created significant uncertainty about the future of the Newport Air Facility and the Coast Guard’s commitment to operating there.”

“We cannot compromise search-and-rescue coverage in Newport, and we need the Coast Guard to make that unequivocally clear,” the lawmakers wrote. “Without action, this decision will cost lives.”

The letter describes why Newport requires immediate, reliable rescue coverage, noting that, “Newport experiences some of the coldest, roughest water on this stretch of the coastline,” and that past tragedies proved that response times from North Bend, “could not meet the community’s needs.”

The letter raises alarm that, “the removal of the helicopter, carried out with no explanation or consultation, has only heightened concern that broader changes may already be underway,” and that the impression is growing, “that maritime safety and the lives of our fishermen, visitors and coastal residents are not a priority for the Coast Guard.”

The lawmakers stressed that federal law sets strict requirements before the Coast Guard may curtail operations at an air facility, stating that, “federal law sets clear requirements before the Coast Guard can close or significantly reduce operations…including ensuring sufficient search-and-rescue coverage, conducting public meetings and notifying Congress.”

With Dungeness crab season about to begin in mid-December, the lawmakers emphasized the urgency, writing, “those crews and their families need to know whether they can count on a timely Coast Guard response if something goes wrong.”

The letter requests immediate answers to key questions, including:

Why the helicopter was moved and what drove that decision;

How the Coast Guard is ensuring adequate search-and-rescue coverage for Newport;

When the helicopter will return and how they will make that determination;

Current estimated response times with the aircraft staged in North Bend;

Whether broader changes to the Newport Air Facility or surrounding property are being considered and requesting information regarding any planned changes; and,

How the Coast Guard will engage the community going forward about changes to this facility and search-and-rescue coverage.

The lawmakers emphasized that any reduction in rescue capability would be unacceptable.

“A delay of 30 to 45 minutes is the difference between a rescue and a body recovery,” they said. “Lives quite literally depend on timely answers to these questions.”

The full letter is available here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-celebrates-senate-passage-of-his-bipartisan-bill-to-enhance-reduce-and-reuse-systems-nationwide/,Merkley Celebrates Senate Passage of His Bipartisan Bill to Enhance Reduce and Reuse Systems Nationwide,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley—a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee—announced that his bipartisan Research for Environmental Uses and Sustainable Economies (REUSE) Act unanimously passed the Senate. Merkley leads the REUSE Act with West Virginia’s U.S. Senator and EPW Committee Chairman Shelley Moore Capito. The REUSE Act is a significant step forward in reducing waste and conserving resources across America by ensuring that reuse and refill systems are integral pillars of our circular economy.

“For years, we were taught the three Rs—reduce, reuse, and recycle; but too often the reality with plastics is the three Bs—buried, burned, and borne out to sea,” said Merkley. “We are on the way to improving reuse systems as the REUSE Act comes even one step closer to becoming law. When we better understand how reuse and refill systems most effectively operate, we are better able to create a healthier planet and future.”

The bipartisan REUSE Act directs the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to collect data on reuse and refill systems across various sectors, including consumer packaging, personal care products, and wholesale shipping of retail goods. This legislation also instructs the EPA to provide information on the types of support at the local, state, and federal levels that could enhance reuse and refill systems. This information will help inform stakeholders about how to harness the environmental benefits and economic potential of reuse and refill systems.

Merkley’s REUSE Act is endorsed by dozens of organizations and business leaders.

To learn more about the REUSE Act, including the full text of the legislation, click here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-wyden-announce-11-5-million-to-oregon-for-expanding-regional-public-transportation/,"Merkley, Wyden Announce $11.5 Million to Oregon for Expanding Regional Public Transportation",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is awarding $11.5 million to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) on behalf of Coos County Area Transportation, Yamhill County Transit Area, and Benton Area Transit to acquire and maintain new buses.

The federal investment will help support and expand regional transit networks by purchasing, leasing, or rehabilitating buses, and the facilities and equipment required to keep them operating safely.

“Strong regional transit networks allow everyone in the community to get to work, go to school, and visit loved ones in a safe and reliable way,” said Merkley.“These strong federal investments will go a long way to expand and strengthen Oregon’s transportation networks and boost the local economies.”

“A big-league economy needs big-league infrastructure, and regional transit plays a huge role in those infrastructure demands throughout Oregon,” said Wyden. “I’m gratified these federal investments are heading to our state to help Oregonians get from point A to point B, and I’ll keep battling for similar investments around Oregon.”

The federal investments are directed toward ODOT on behalf of:

Coos County Area Transportation District’s Coos Transit Center & Mobility Hub: $8,839,155

Yamhill County-Yamhill County Transit Area (YCTA)’s Yamhill County Transit Bus Replacement Project: $1,921,000

Benton County’s Benton Area Transit ADA-Compliant Vehicle Replacement and Fleet Sustainability Project: $833,000

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-115-million-to-oregon-for-expanding-regional-public-transportation,"Merkley, Wyden Announce $11.5 Million to Oregon for Expanding Regional Public Transportation",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,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 announced the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is awarding $11.5 million to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) on behalf of Coos County Area Transportation, Yamhill County Transit Area, and Benton Area Transit to acquire and maintain new buses.

The federal investment will help support and expand regional transit networks by purchasing, leasing, or rehabilitating buses, and the facilities and equipment required to keep them operating safely.

“Strong regional transit networks allow everyone in the community to get to work, go to school, and visit loved ones in a safe and reliable way,” said Merkley. “These strong federal investments will go a long way to expand and strengthen Oregon’s transportation networks and boost the local economies.”

“A big-league economy needs big-league infrastructure, and regional transit plays a huge role in those infrastructure demands throughout Oregon,” said Wyden. “I’m gratified these federal investments are heading to our state to help Oregonians get from point A to point B, and I’ll keep battling for similar investments around Oregon.”

The federal investments are directed toward ODOT on behalf of:

Coos County Area Transportation District’s Coos Transit Center & Mobility Hub: $8,839,155

Yamhill County-Yamhill County Transit Area (YCTA)’s Yamhill County Transit Bus Replacement Project: $1,921,000

Benton County’s Benton Area Transit ADA-Compliant Vehicle Replacement and Fleet Sustainability Project: $833,000

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/curtis-and-merkley-work-to-codify-taiwan-six-assurances/,CURTIS AND MERKLEY WORK TO CODIFY TAIWAN SIX ASSURANCES,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) introduced the Six Assurances to Taiwan Act, a bipartisan bill to formally codify the Six Assurances as foundational U.S. policy toward Taiwan, reinforce congressional oversight, and prevent any unilateral change in America’s longstanding position without legislative review.

The Six Assurances, originally conveyed by the Reagan Administration to Taiwan, are six key foreign policy commitments that have underpinned the U.S.-Taiwan relationship for nearly half a century. This bill gives those assurances the full force of law for the first time and ensures that any attempt to change them must first be reviewed by Congress.

“The Six Assurances have been a cornerstone of U.S.–Taiwan policy since President Reagan first outlined them in 1982,” said Senator Curtis. “My bill simply codifies these longstanding commitments, so they carry the full weight of law. As Beijing escalates its pressure campaign, this is about clarity, deterrence, and showing Taiwan that America’s support is principled, bipartisan, and enduring.”

“Republicans and Democrats agree that the United States must reinforce our long-standing support for Taiwan,” said Senator Merkley. “Our bipartisan bill codifies a cornerstone of U.S. policy toward Taiwan—ensuring no administration can back away from this commitment behind closed doors—and sends the strong message that members of Congress from both sides of the aisle will not stand for any efforts that undermine this essential partnership.”

Background:

The Six Assurances, reaffirmed by both Republican and Democratic administrations, are as follows:

The U.S. has not agreed to set a date for ending arms sales to Taiwan.

The U.S. has not agreed to consult with the PRC on arms sales to Taiwan.

The U.S. will not play a mediation role between Taiwan and the PRC.

The U.S. has not agreed to revise the Taiwan Relations Act.

The U.S. has not altered its position on the issue of Taiwan sovereignty.

The U.S. will not pressure Taiwan to enter into negotiations with the PRC.

The Six Assurances to Taiwan Act strengthens these principles by making them U.S. law and requiring:

Congressional Notification and Review: Before any U.S. administration can take action to alter arms sales, revise longstanding policy, or pressure Taiwan into negotiations, it must notify Congress and provide a full justification.

Legislative Oversight Period: No such action may proceed until Congress has had up to 60 days to review and potentially block it through a joint resolution of disapproval.

Stabilizing Policy Declaration: It reaffirms that maintaining the Six Assurances is in the national, economic, and security interest of the United States and contributes to peace in the Indo-Pacific.

For complete bill text, click here. Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives earlier this year by Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Greg Stanton (D-AZ), Young Kim (R-CA), Zach Nunn (R-IA), and Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY)

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/lujan-schumer-klobuchar-merkley-hayes-craig-lead-congressional-democrats-in-introducing-legislation-to-reverse-snap-cuts-and-restore-food-security-for-millions-of-americans/,"Luján, Schumer, Klobuchar, Merkley, Hayes, Craig Lead Congressional Democrats in Introducing Legislation to Reverse SNAP Cuts and Restore Food Security for Millions of Americans",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Bicameral Introduction Follows Trump Administration’s Shutdown Chaos and Effort to Strip Food Assistance

WATCH: Senator Luján Hosts Press Conference Announcing his SNAP Legislation

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Food and Nutrition, Specialty Crops, Organics, and Research, Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) led the entire Senate Democratic Caucus in introducing the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act of 2025. The legislation would repeal all the devastating Republican cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) made in the Republican Budget Betrayal. U.S. Representatives Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.) and Angie Craig (D-Minn.), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Agriculture introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Congress has upheld a 50-year bipartisan commitment that Americans should not go hungry, but the Republican Budget Betrayal breaks that promise with the largest SNAP cuts in history. To fund tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy, Congressional Republicans approved cuts that the Congressional Budget Office estimates will eliminate $187 billion in food assistance over the next decade, even as grocery prices rise and President Trump’s tariff costs increase. These Republican cuts will take meals from millions of Americans, including children, seniors, veterans, workers, and people with disabilities, while harming farmers, ranchers, small businesses, and grocers who rely on SNAP dollars. Additionally, the Republican Budget Betrayal creates a massive unfunded mandate on state governments that could force deep cuts or even eliminate SNAP entirely.

“For half a century, our nation has stood behind a bipartisan promise: that no child, no senior, no veteran, and no working family should go hungry. Republicans broke that promise and ripped meals away from millions of Americans in their Budget Betrayal,” said Senator Luján. “SNAP puts food on the table for 42 million people – including one in every five New Mexicans – yet the Trump administration spent the shutdown trying to block families from receiving food assistance and make it as difficult as possible to access their benefits. We have a responsibility to protect these families. That’s why I am leading Congressional Democrats in introducing legislation to fully repeal the Republican cuts to SNAP and ensure no American family goes hungry.”

“SNAP isn’t an abstract policy or a number in a spreadsheet, it’s food, dignity and survival for 42 million Americans,” said Leader Schumer. “This summer, the Republican “Big, Ugly Bill” made the single largest cut to federal food assistance in our nation’s history. And during the Republican shutdown, the Trump administration weaponized hunger, blocking families from receiving SNAP benefits that Congress had already funding. Democrats are fighting back. Today, we introduced legislation to reverse these disastrous and deadly cuts and restore food security for millions of Americans. We will keep fighting until every family has the basic security and dignity of food on the table.”

“From gutting SNAP in their Big Beautiful Betrayal of a bill to refusing to provide food assistance to families in need during the shutdown, this Administration has taken every opportunity to make it harder for Americans to put food on the table,” said Senator Klobuchar, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. “With this legislation, we will keep fighting every step of the way to restore food assistance to families in need and ensure the 42 million Americans — including veterans, seniors and children — who count on SNAP don’t go to bed hungry.”

“Children, seniors, and low-income families will go hungry because of the Republican cuts to SNAP. This is yet another heartbreaking consequence of the Republican agenda to fund tax breaks for the ultrarich while working families struggle,” said Senator Merkley. “Under Trump, it is always the red carpet for billionaires and red tape for families. I’ll keep fighting to reverse these devastating cuts.”

“At every opportunity, Republicans have chosen to target and decimate the programs that feed people. The Big Beautiful Bill implemented the largest cut to SNAP in history – putting the most vulnerable at higher risk of hunger,” said Congresswoman Hayes. “Republicans have proven that cruelty is the point. During the government shutdown, all of America watched as they once again chose to use hunger as a weapon and blocked emergency funding for SNAP – marking the first ever lapse in funding. With the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act we can reverse the damage caused by this legislation and restore the nearly $200 billion eliminated from SNAP.”

“President Trump has spent his first year in office repeatedly attacking our nation’s most effective anti-hunger program at a time when his tariffs are contributing to record food prices. His Big Ugly Bill cut SNAP – a basic needs food assistance program – by $187 billion, taking food away from millions of hungry American seniors, children, people with disabilities and veterans. I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to stand up for our vulnerable neighbors and help to pass the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act,” said Representative Angie Craig, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Agriculture.

Supporting quotes can be found here.

Additionally, earlier this week, nearly 1,500 national, state, and community-based organizations joined a letter voicing support for this effort.

SNAP is a lifeline for over 42 million Americans, including 16 million children, 8 million seniors, 4 million people with disabilities, and 1.2 million veterans. In New Mexico, more than 450,000 people rely on SNAP benefits to feed their families. This includes more than 65,000 seniors and nearly 200,000 children across the state.

During the government shutdown, Senator Luján led the Senate Democratic Caucus in introducing legislation that prevents the Trump administration from illegally withholding available funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). During debate on the Republican Budget Betrayal, Senator Luján spearheaded efforts to reverse the bill’s drastic cuts to food assistance.

Together with Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, Senator Luján convened a Spotlight Forum titled “Hunger by Design: The GOP’s Assault on SNAP” to underscore the devastating impact of Congressional Republicans’ plan to gut SNAP.

In addition to Senator Luján, Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, Ranking Member Klobuchar, and Ranking Member Merkley, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

The full bill text of the legislation can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-bipartisan-colleagues-air-ambulance-providers-at-risk-without-federal-action/,"Merkley, Bipartisan Colleagues: Air Ambulance Providers at Risk Without Federal Action",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley today led U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Angus King (I-ME), Steve Daines (R-MT), and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) to call on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to address issues plaguing air ambulance providers and other emergency medical services in Oregon, Maine, Montana, Colorado, and across the nation.

“Each year, air ambulance teams treat and transport hundreds of thousands of critically ill and injured patients nationwide, serving as a vital link in our emergency care system. Congress recognized the unique nature of these services by including dedicated provisions for air ambulances in the [No Surprises Act], yet significant regulatory and operational gaps remain that make it difficult for air ambulances to provide care to patients,” wrote Senators Merkley, Collins, Wyden, King, Daines, and Hickenlooper. “We urge you to address these gaps in the final rule related to certain provisions of the No Surprises Act regarding the federal independent dispute resolution (IDR) process.”

More than 550,000 Americans use air ambulance services each year, and people across the country count on them to be there when they need them. However, air ambulance providers have been struggling to navigate financial challenges because of some insurance companies increasingly delaying or denying claims and exploiting the IDR process under the No Surprises Act. In addition, air ambulance providers have seen a lack of enforcement and accountability, even though HHS has clear enforcement authority.

The Senators directed, “We urge the Department to act swiftly to address these issues and restore the [No Surprises Act’s] promise of fair, timely, and transparent reimbursement for air ambulance services, along with its objective to protect patients from surprise medical bills. Strengthening these protections is essential to safeguarding patient access and the sustainability of critical care providers nationwide.”

Full text of the letter can be found by clicking here and follows below:

Dear Secretary Kennedy:

We write to bring urgent attention to the ongoing challenges faced by air ambulance providers and other emergency medical services in the implementation of the No Surprises Act (NSA). Each year, air ambulance teams treat and transport hundreds of thousands of critically ill and injured patients nationwide, serving as a vital link in our emergency care system. Congress recognized the unique nature of these services by including dedicated provisions for air ambulances in the NSA, yet significant regulatory and operational gaps remain that make it difficult for air ambulances to provide care to patients. We urge you to address these gaps in the final rule related to certain provisions of the No Surprises Act regarding the federal independent dispute resolution (IDR) process.

Enforcement and Accountability

Over the last several years, we have heard from air ambulance providers across the country about a lack of enforcement and accountability, despite the fact that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has clear enforcement authority. For example, some insurers frequently miss statutory deadlines for interim and final payments, with no meaningful penalties or enforcement mechanisms in place. Notably, timelines for payment are not consistently within the law’s specified time period, and according to the CMS portal, approximately 35% of IDR air ambulance claims filed in 2024 have not yet been resolved, which has led to severe cash flow crises for providers, base closures, and reduced access to emergency services.

Additionally, some insurers fail to engage in good-faith negotiations and have submitted higher offers during IDR than in open negotiations. Insurers have also exploited the 90-day “cool-down” period to further delay reimbursement. The lack of good-faith participation by insurers undermines the NSA’s intent to foster in-network agreements. Insurers have been able to miss deadlines or fail to comply with IDR determinations without facing meaningful penalties. Robust enforcement measures, including financial penalties for late payments and allowing providers to seek remedies for noncompliance, are urgently needed.

Transparency and Accuracy of the Qualified Payment Amount (QPA)

We have also heard from providers that the insurer QPAs are below actual market rates. For instance, some insurers are relying on rates from services that are either rarely performed or never performed, which are also known as “ghost rates” and irrelevant contracts to artificially lower reimbursement benchmarks. In response, HHS may want to mandate full transparency and annual validation by CMS of QPA calculations and prohibit the use of ghost rates.

Medical Necessity and Prior Authorization Denials

Despite clear statutory intent outside of the No Surprises Act, insurers are increasingly denying claims for emergency air and ground transports based on medical necessity or lack of prior authorization—even when ordered by EMS or hospital physicians under emergency protocols. These denials contradict established standards, including the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), and create dangerous barriers to timely care. Medical necessity should be presumed for emergency transports, and prior authorization requirements must be prohibited for these services in accordance with federal law.

Excessive Documentation Requirements

Providers are often required to obtain documentation from transferring or receiving hospitals before payment is issued, despite not having access to these records. This practice causes unnecessary delays and should be prohibited; insurers should accept claim attachments with initial submissions and not use documentation gaps to deny or delay payment.

We urge the Department to act swiftly to address these issues and restore the NSA’s promise of fair, timely, and transparent reimbursement for air ambulance services, along with its objective to protect patients from surprise medical bills. Strengthening these protections is essential to safeguarding patient access and the sustainability of critical care providers nationwide.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.merkley.senate.gov/merkley-cruz-lead-bipartisan-group-of-senators-to-urge-u-s-action-to-free-wrongfully-detained-pastor-jin-support-religious-freedom-in-china/,"Merkley, Cruz Lead Bipartisan Group of Senators to Urge U.S. Action to Free Wrongfully Detained Pastor Jin, Support Religious Freedom in China",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Jeff Merkley,M001176,www.merkley.senate.gov,merkley,https://www.merkley.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and Texas’ U.S. Senator Ted Cruz led a bipartisan effort to push for immediate action from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in response to the Chinese government detaining Pastor “Ezra” Jin Mingri and dozens of other Zion Church leaders for their beliefs.

“Pastor Jin, the 56-year-old founder and senior pastor of Beijing’s Zion Church, was detained on October 10, 2025, along with nearly thirty other church leaders, on allegations of ‘illegal dissemination of information online,’” wrote the bipartisan group of 11 Senators. “Public reports indicate that formal indictments may soon follow, making this a critical moment for U.S. engagement on their cases. Strong and visible advocacy from the United States can help sustain international pressure, support efforts to secure their release, and show Chinese authorities that the world is watching. We urge you to seize this moment.”

Merkley and Cruz’s letter was signed by Dick Durbin (D-IL), Peter Welch (D-VT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Jim Justice (R-WV).

The Senators stressed, “The October 10 detentions represent the largest coordinated crackdown on an urban house church in four decades and underscore a troubling reality: the Chinese government is targeting people of faith simply for worshiping freely.”

“We commend your statement in support of Pastor Jin and the other detained Zion Church leaders on October 12. We urge you to follow up that statement with continued diplomatic engagement, to press your PRC counterparts to release Pastor Jin and the other detained church leaders, and to make clear that the United States will continue to speak out for freedom of belief and worship,” they concluded.

As a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and past Chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, Merkley has worked tirelessly to shine a light on repression by the Chinese government, including its targeting of Uyghurs, Hong Kongers, Tibetans, and other vulnerable groups. He also joined a Cruz-led effort to unanimously pass a Senate resolution in support of Pastor Jin and condemning the persecution of religious minorities in China.

Full text of the Senators’ letter can be found by clicking here and follows below:

Dear Secretary Rubio:

We write to express deep concern about the ongoing detention of Pastor “Ezra” Jin Mingri and other leaders of Zion Church by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), and to urge the Department of State to press for their release.

Pastor Jin, the 56-year-old founder and senior pastor of Beijing’s Zion Church, was detained on October 10, 2025, along with nearly thirty other church leaders, on allegations of “illegal dissemination of information online.” Public reports indicate that formal indictments may soon follow, making this a critical moment for U.S. engagement on their cases. Strong and visible advocacy from the United States can help sustain international pressure, support efforts to secure their release, and show Chinese authorities that the world is watching. We urge you to seize this moment.

Pastor Jin founded Zion Church in 2007. What began as a small congregation grew to more than 1,500 members before PRC authorities shut it down and confiscated its property in 2018 after Pastor Jin refused to allow surveillance cameras to be installed in the sanctuary. Following that raid, Pastor Jin traveled to the United States with his family. His wife and three children, including two sons and a daughter who are U.S. citizens, remain here. Despite the risks, Pastor Jin later returned to Beijing to continue leading Zion Church and has remained a consistent voice for peaceful religious practice in China.

Zion Church is one of the largest unregistered house churches in China, with online prayer services that draw thousands of participants. Its growth and independence outside state control have made it a target of the PRC’s broader crackdown on Christians and other religious minorities. This campaign is part of President Xi Jinping’s effort to “Sinicize” religion and bring faith communities under government supervision.

The October 10 detentions represent the largest coordinated crackdown on an urban house church in four decades and underscore a troubling reality: the Chinese government is targeting people of faith simply for worshiping freely.

We commend your statement in support of Pastor Jin and the other detained Zion Church leaders on October 12. We urge you to follow up that statement with continued diplomatic engagement, to press your PRC counterparts to release Pastor Jin and the other detained church leaders, and to make clear that the United States will continue to speak out for freedom of belief and worship.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-asks-coast-guard-to-meet-this-sunday-in-newport-about-its-unexplained-relocation-of-search-and-rescue-helicopter,Wyden Asks Coast Guard to Meet This Sunday in Newport About Its Unexplained Relocation of Search-and-Rescue Helicopter,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Senator: “That ongoing silence about a decision that carries life-and-death consequences for Oregonians and visitors to this community is unacceptable to the people I’m proud to represent.”

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today asked U.S. Coast Guard officials to join him this Sunday morning, Nov. 23 at the Newport Municipal Airport to provide him and this central Oregon Coast community answers about the relocation of a Coast Guard helicopter essential to local public safety.

Wyden wrote in his letter to Admiral Kevin E. Lunday, Acting Coast Guard Commandant, that he would like that Nov. 23 airport meeting with a Coast Guard representative to happen before his annual open-to-all Lincoln County town hall scheduled later that day in Newport.

“On November 12, 2025, I wrote to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Noem and you seeking timely answers about the recent change in Coast Guard assets. To date, I have not received any answers or updates from the Coast Guard or DHS,” Wyden wrote. “That ongoing silence about a decision that carries life-and-death consequences for Oregonians and visitors to this community is unacceptable to the people I’m proud to represent.

Wyden reiterated in today’s letter that the Coast Guard station in Newport serves the city and the central Oregon Coast as an essential safety net for the state’s fishing industry, coastal visitors, and local residents with boat crews and a MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew that’s long been a proven lifesaver in search-and-rescue operations.

“Newport residents and small business owners remain extremely concerned about how this move threatens search and rescue operations, considering that the next closest helicopter appears to now be more than 90 miles away in North Bend, Oregon,” Wyden wrote. “The fishing community in Newport is understandably worried that if someone in the cold water of the Pacific is in need of immediate rescue, the Coast Guard crews nearby will not have the necessary assets to save their lives.“

The entire letter is here.

Related Files",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z