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.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-trump-admins-attack-on-offshore-wind-and-ri-jobs,Reed Statement on Trump Admin’s Attack on Offshore Wind & RI Jobs,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"CRANSTON, RI – After the Trump Administration today announced it is once again halting offshore wind projects across the nation – including Revolution Wind, which is 85 percent complete and located approximately 15 miles off the southern shore of Rhode Island, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) issued the following statement:

“President Trump’s outdated energy policies are killing good-paying union jobs and have already increased energy bills for the average American family by thirteen percent since January.

“While energy prices are soaring and our competitors across the globe are racing to innovate and find new sources of clean energy, we need to make energy more affordable and our energy grid more resilient. But Trump’s repeated attacks on offshore wind are holding our nation back, increasing energy bills, and hurting our economy.

“The Ocean State knows the great potential of offshore wind for our economy and environment. I will continue fighting to ensure these projects can move forward to help lower energy bills for Rhode Islanders and create more jobs and more opportunity for all.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/as-bird-flu-spreads-reed-calls-for-hearings-and-a-comprehensive-national-strategy,"As Bird Flu Spreads, Reed Calls for Hearings & a Comprehensive National Strategy",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – As highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as ‘bird flu’ or ‘avian flu’ continues to spread worldwide and decimate American poultry flocks, it has also now infected dairy herds in 18 states.

While the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the agency which serves as Europe’s surveillance hub for infectious diseases, is urging preventative steps and a comprehensive strategy to prepare for and respond to animal-to-human influenza transmission, the Trump Administration is dragging its feet, misaligning resources, and failing to execute a strategic U.S. plan that includes bird flu vaccination as one component of a broader approach to HPAI.

Now, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is urging the Trump Administration to ramp up their avian flu response, stop subsidizing an unhealthy system, and calling on the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry to hold hearings on the dangers of avian flu and the Ending Taxpayer Support for Big Egg Producers Act (S. 1904), which Senator Reed introduced in May.

Reed’s bill would ensure that limited resources are used effectively to combat the avian flu and help producers who need them most, rather than highly-profitable companies. He has called on the federal government to examine what role industry consolidation has had on egg prices, noting that Cal-Maine, a publicly-trade egg producer that controls one fifth of the nation’s egg supply, had no bird flu outbreaks in fiscal year 2023 but still raised prices and raked in over $1 billion in windfall profits that year.

In a letter to the Senate Ag Committee, Reed wrote: “As these investigations proceed, however, companies continue to reel in profits while benefitting from taxpayer support. For example, Cal-Maine Foods received $44 million in indemnity payments in 2024, and in 2025 repurchased approximately $50 million in shares from family members of the company’s founder. SEC filings show Cal-Maine may spend up to an additional $450 million on buybacks, even as it benefits from taxpayer-funded indemnity payments. The Trump Administration has continued to issue indemnity payments to companies; however, proper guardrails do not exist to ensure payments reach those who need them most.”

Senator Reed notes it is imperative for the Trump Administration to wisely allocate limited federal resources and implement science-based solutions that strengthen flock health while protecting the ability of American farmers to compete in global markets.

“It is important to have a plan in place before the virus can trigger a major outbreak,” said Senator Reed. “But the Trump Administration’s failure to properly prepare and respond is troubling. Federal funds that are supposed to go to early detection, response, and control of animal diseases and outbreaks like avian flu are instead being unused or directed elsewhere. That makes farmers, consumers, and public health more vulnerable and could force Americans to pay a much higher price in the long run.”

The avian flu virus has jumped to several mammal species in the last few years, including cats, cows, foxes, bears, and other birds. About 1,000 humans have also caught the virus since it first emerged, but fortunately it has not mutated to spread between humans.

Reed is urging the Trump Administration to move forward with finalizing and implementing a national avian influenza vaccination program. In February, USDA announced a Five-Pronged Approach to combatting avian influenza, but has since pulled back on key planks of the strategy, such as ‘Exploring Pathways toward Vaccines, Therapeutics, and Other Strategies for Protecting Egg Laying Chickens to Reduce Instances of Depopulation.’

After being awarded a $590 million contract by the Biden Administration to help develop a vaccine effective against bird flu, in May, the Trump Administration cancelled the contract with Moderna. This week, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), a public-private partnership of governments and philanthropic groups developing new vaccines to prevent future epidemics, announced a $54.3 million investment to help Moderna get its bird flu vaccine candidate to licensure.

“We’ve got to learn the right lessons from the past: an ounce of prevention can go a long way toward protecting public health and economic health. Right now, the Trump Administration’s anti-vax bias seems to be clouding its judgement and shortchanging taxpayers, shirking its commitment, and hoping the private sector will step in. If the avian flu mutates, this could prove to be exponentially costly for taxpayers, patients, and our economy,” noted Reed.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-whitehouse-warn-against-trumps-fish_wildlife-service-staff-cuts,Reed & Whitehouse Warn Against Trump’s Fish & Wildlife Service Staff Cuts,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- After a public records request showed that nearly 1,800 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) employees have left or been forced out of the agency -- a loss of 18 percent of the service’s staff -- U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse are teaming up with their colleagues in urging the Trump Administration to reverse course and end the FWS staffing crisis.

Data obtained through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request by the Center for Biological Diversity showed the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service staffing levels dropped from 9,957 to 8,179, nationwide between 2024 and the end of May. The massive reduction in FWS staff is largely the result of DOGE-driven cuts and Trump Administration policies to purge federal workers.

In Rhode Island, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service oversees the state’s five national wildlife refuges in Charlestown, South Kingstown, Narragansett, Middletown, and Block Island. FWS employees work with Rhode Island’s Department of Environmental Management (DEM) to conserve and protect fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats, focusing on endangered species, migratory birds, and managing resources for outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and hiking.

This week, Reed, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Whitehouse, the top Democrat on the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, joined U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) and seventeen of their colleagues in urging the Trump Administration to immediately address and reverse the staffing crisis at FWS, which is at risk of losing the capacity to properly manage many 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.

“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.

In addition to Schiff, Reed, and Whitehouse, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Edward Markey (D-MA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

The full text of the letter follows:

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:

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

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

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

4. 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.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-ross-intro-bicameral-proposal-to-better-protect-consumers_crack-down-on-abusive-practices-in-the-buy-now-pay-later-industry,"Reed & Ross Intro Bicameral Proposal to Better Protect Consumers & Crack Down on Abusive Practices in the Buy Now, Pay Later Industry",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – During this year’s busy holiday shopping period from Black Friday to Cyber Monday, consumers spent a record amount of over $1 billion in purchases with Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options, according to data from Adobe Analytics.

As shopping gets more convenient for consumers online and on their phones, BNPL loans have continued on a path of explosive growth. While BNPL allows consumers weary of credit cards to split up their purchases over time, it is crucial to ensure that the rulebook for BNPL products keeps pace with how they have become embedded in the shopping experience for many consumers—especially younger borrowers.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and U.S. Representative Deborah Ross (D-NC-02) today introduced a new bill that would make commonsense updates to the Truth in Lending Act (TILA) to extend many key consumer protections for traditional credit cards to “pay-in-four” BNPL loans.

The Buy Now, Pay Later Protection Act would update TILA so that when BNPL functions like a credit card, it carries the same core protections: commonsense parity for consumers and a level playing field for responsible providers.

BNPL products have surged in popularity as an easy, convenient way to split purchases into interest-free installments at the click of a button. If they are well-designed, transparent, accountable, and supervised, BNPL products can legitimately serve an important role in meeting the needs of consumers who may be wary of credit cards.

As costs rise and usage of BPNL products increases across the nation, basic protections are needed to prevent predatory practices like hidden fees, failure to provide timely refunds, and pushing consumers to rack up unsustainable debt. These protections—which currently exist for credit cards—include standardized periodic statements, clear dispute and refund rights, and consistent billing-error procedures. Existing laws were not drafted with BNPL products in mind, resulting in gaps and uncertainty for BNPL users.

“Responsible Buy Now, Pay Later options can be helpful to consumers. As they grow in popularity, we must take proactive steps to prevent unsuspecting risks to consumers,” said Senator Reed, who has taken repeated action to push for commonsense guidelines and rules to better govern BNPL products. “The Buy Now, Pay Later Protection Act will set up real guardrails to better protect consumers and ensure that fees and terms are transparent and easy to understand.”

“At a time when prices are rising, Buy Now, Pay Later is a useful tool for many households, especially around the holidays. Unfortunately, these services are increasingly engaging in predatory practices, charging hidden fees and locking working Americans into inescapable cycles of debt,” said Congresswoman Deborah Ross. “Congress needs to put consumers first. That’s why we’re introducing the Buy Now, Pay Later Protection Act, which will ensure consumers have the options and information they need to make informed decisions.”

Key provisions of Senator Reed and Congresswoman Ross’ bill include:

Disclosures: Clear information on due dates, fees, and information on how consumers can dispute charges.

Right to Periodic Statements: BNPL providers must issue periodic billing statements, similar to credit cards, so consumers can track their spending and balances.

Chargeback Rights: When customers are the victims of payment fraud or deceptive practices, they have the right to seek a chargeback.

Billing Error Resolution: Provides timelines and procedures for investigating billing disputes and restricts adverse credit reporting or collection on transactions under active dispute.

No Surprise Fees: Providers can’t jack up interest, fees, or other charges on an existing BNPL balance midway through repayment and can only apply fees that were disclosed up front.

Supervision: Provides the CFPB with authority to supervise BNPL lenders to spot violations before they spiral out of control.

This legislation is endorsed by the National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low-income clients), American for Financial Reform, and the Consumer Federation of America.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-commends-law-enforcement-for-cracking-brown-university-shooting-case,Reed Commends Law Enforcement for Cracking Brown University Shooting Case,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement:

“The Brown shooting was a horrific tragedy. Even though the suspected gunman is dead, this continues to be a complex case with many remaining questions. More answers will come as the investigation continues, and more facts are uncovered. But tonight, I hope Rhode Islanders can breathe a little easier.

“I commend our law enforcement and public safety officials who worked non-stop to crack this case and keep the public safe. Their focus, skill, determination, and professionalism made all the difference.

“We’re so grateful to the unified community response team that came together from all over to solve this case. We thank the men and women of the Providence Police Department, the FBI, the State Police, the ATF, and other partner agencies, officers, and experts who provided valuable assistance, as well as the Mayor, the Attorney General, the Governor, and all who supported this criminal investigation and the community response.

“Two amazing young people – Brown students Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov and Ella Cook – were tragically taken from us. Their lives were cut short, several others were wounded by the gunman, and many more in the Brown community and our state have invisible scars from this tragedy. We are here for all of them. We’re rallying to uplift them and support their family and loved ones.

“Tonight’s outcome is a step toward healing, but the investigation continues and the road ahead is difficult. We remain focused on public safety. All of us are challenged to think about what we can do as individuals and collectively to ensure other communities don’t feel the same sense of loss and heartbreak that we’re feeling.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-congressional-investigation-of-trumps-boat-strike-campaign,Reed Statement on Congressional Investigation of Trump’s Boat Strike Campaign,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement regarding the ongoing congressional inquiries into the Trump Administration’s military operations in Caribbean and Eastern Pacific:

“I remain entirely dissatisfied with the Trump Administration’s engagement with Congress regarding its boat strike campaign in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. The Senate Armed Services Committee has been denied basic information, documents, and answers from the Department of Defense about this campaign.

“For months, in multiple briefings, the Department omitted the fact that there were two survivors in the initial September 2nd strike. We learned the circumstances of the strike from press reports. That is completely unacceptable. Given the repeated lack of transparency from the Department in this instance and others, it is imperative that we receive the requested materials covering this operation.

“I appreciate the partnership of my colleagues on the Senate and House Armed Services Committees for exercising oversight and holding multiple briefings the past several weeks, but much more work remains. In particular, given the continued questions surrounding the September 2nd strike, there should be additional congressional inquiries and an independent command investigation to understand all of the facts and garner lessons learned.

“I would reiterate the need for DOD to provide documents and information requested by the Senate Armed Services Committee, including several that are required by existing law and the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, including:

The Execute Orders guiding these operations;

Unedited video of all strikes;

The updated legal and policy framework reports;

All audio, transcripts, and chat logs of communications between commanders, aircraft, and others involved in the Sept. 2nd strike;

Regular staff briefings on the operations;

Responses to dozens of written follow-up questions seeking clarification of initial notifications; and

Updated costs of the operations.

“I respect the difficult and dangerous missions that we ask of our servicemembers, and all Americans should be grateful for their sacrifice.

“But the United States military answers to the American people. Congress has not authorized any armed conflict, yet the Trump Administration is undertaking military operations in America’s name, under circumstances where there is no imminent military threat to the country, and Congress – the representatives of the people – deserves answers. I will continue to press the Department of Defense and my colleagues in Congress for the transparency this Administration owes the American people.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/congress-passes-ndaa-to-strengthen-national-security-and-boost-ri-jobs,Congress Passes NDAA to Strengthen National Security & Boost RI Jobs,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate today voted 77-20 to advance the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026 (S.1071). The measure previously passed the full U.S. House of Representatives and now goes to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

This year’s NDAA authorizes $900.6 billion for both the military and the U.S. Department of Energy’s nuclear weapons programs.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, says the bill will strengthen and safeguard the nation, benefit U.S. troops and their families, improve the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DOD) acquisition process, and boost Rhode Island’s economy – bringing more good-paying jobs to the Ocean State.

“This bill strengthens military readiness, revitalizes our industrial base, and provides our troops with a pay raise and the tools to deter and defeat adversaries,” said Senator Reeed. “The bill bolsters America’s posture toward China, reinforces our support for NATO and Ukraine, and ensures sustained support for key partners around the world, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. Indeed, with strong bipartisan backing it firmly pushes back against the executive branch’s retreat to uphold U.S. security commitments. And it positions the Department of Defense to adapt to evolving threats while maintaining robust Congressional oversight.”

The NDAA enhances existing defense programs and improves pay and benefits for servicemembers -- including a 3.8 percent pay increase for all servicemembers. It includes major investments in science and technology to advance cutting-edge research and concrete support for key U.S. allies and partners, including Ukraine.

Senator Reed stated: “This NDAA is the result of a bipartisan and bicameral compromise. It isn’t perfect, but it makes a lot of needed improvements that will help strengthen America’s economic, industrial, and military might. It invests in our servicemembers by increasing their pay and it protects civilian DOD employees too. It includes major quality of life enhancements in areas like childcare, housing, education, and more. The acquisition reforms will help speed the development and fielding of new systems and technology to our forces on the front lines. And it authorizes critical investments in technology and advanced weapons systems; strengthens our cyber capabilities and defenses; and bolsters innovative research and development efforts.”

Significantly, the bipartisan bill reaffirms America’s global leadership by extending the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative and authorizing additional security assistance to European partners. It strengthens our alliances in Asia by authorizing full funding the Pacific Deterrence Initiative and bolsters activities relating to the security partnership among Australia, United Kingdom, and the United States, known as AUKUS. Importantly, the bill seeks to guard against reckless reductions in U.S. force posture in Europe and the Indo-Pacific.

To improve congressional oversight of the Pentagon, the NDAA compels the Secretary of Defense to follow the law and submit to Congress a number of reports he has deliberately withheld. Specifically, the bill cuts off portions of the Secretary of Defense’s budget until he submits the execute orders and unedited videos of the boat strikes related to ongoing operations in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. The bill asserts congressional authority over several other areas in which the Secretary has been negligent.

Notably, this year’s NDAA would repeal the Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) that was adopted in the run-up to the invasion of Iraq but subsequently used to underpin a host of military actions worldwide since 2002.

Rhode Island defense workers, contractors, and suppliers would benefit from shipbuilding funds to build the Columbia-class submarine and Virginia-class submarine. Thousands of Rhode Islanders make critical contributions to designing, engineering, and building these next generation submarines, which are made by General Dynamics Electric Boat.

“The NDAA authorizes a $1.9 billion boost for the Virginia-class submarine program to ensure a two-per-year build rate. It also includes incremental funding authority for the Columbia-class submarine program to keep construction on track,” said Senator Reed. “And to strengthen our industrial base and boost wages for welders and shipyard workers at Quonset Point and Groton, Connecticut, and other places that help build submarines, it includes $615 million to help provide higher wages and workforce stability initiatives.”

In April, the U.S. Navy signed an $18.4 billion contract awarded to General Dynamics Electric Boat for production of two new Virginia-class fast attack submarines.

Hundreds of small businesses across Rhode Island supply the U.S. Department of Defense, and hardworking Rhode Islanders contribute to the creation of a wide range of military products, equipment, and services. Additionally, Rhode Island is home to the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport; Naval Station (NAVSTA) Newport; and the Naval War College. These facilities, along with leading academic research institutions and a network of suppliers and small businesses, contribute to a defense industry that is boosting Rhode Island’s economy and leading to advancements in technology and innovation.

A report by the Southeastern New England Defense Industry Alliance (SENEDIA) shows that the total direct and indirect economic impact from defense spending in Rhode Island accounted for $7.6 billion in 2022. The report found that Rhode Island’s defense industry is growing and supported a total of 34,068 direct and indirect jobs across the Ocean State with an annual payroll of $3 billion.

Other initiatives that benefit Rhode Island include authorizations of:

$71.8 million for Navy applied research on undersea warfare technologies, led by the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC);

$20 million for the Defense Established Programs to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR), which ensures Rhode Island universities may compete to perform cutting-edge basic research and partner with defense labs;

$50 million in supplemental Impact Aid and $20 million in Impact Aid for schools with military dependent children with severe disabilities; and

$190 million for Military Construction funding for four projects at NUWC Newport:

$40 million for Consolidated RDT&E Systems Facility;

$73 million for Next Generation Secure Submarine Platform Facility;

$40 million for Submarine Payload Integration Laboratory; and

$37 million for Next Generation Torpedo Integration Lab.

The bill previously passed the U.S. House of Representatives on a vote of 312-112. President Trump is expected to sign the bill into law.

While the NDAA authorizes federal funding, Congress must also appropriate spending through a separate Defense Appropriations bill. Senator Reed is a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and its subcommittee on defense.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-whitehouse-cosponsor-legislation-to-close-charleston-loophole_prevent-dangerous-gun-sales,Reed & Whitehouse Cosponsor Legislation to Close Charleston Loophole & Prevent Dangerous Gun Sales,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – When it comes to the sale of firearms, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse say the rule should be simple: ‘no background check, no sale’ for all firearm transfers and purchases.

In an effort to keep dangerous weapons out of the hands of people the law already says should not own them, Reed and Whitehouse joined U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and 23 of their Senate colleagues on December 12 in introducing the Background Check Completion Act (S.3458). This legislation would end an exemption -- known as “default to proceed” -- that allows a sale to go forward if the background check process takes more than 72 hours.

When a criminal background check indicates that a firearm purchaser may have a criminal record, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) tries to determine whether the purchaser can legally buy a gun. If this process takes longer than 72 hours for those 21 years of age or older, or 10 days for those under 21, gun dealers can complete the sale even though there is a heightened risk that the purchaser is legally disqualified from purchasing a gun.

The gap in existing law has allowed thousands of gun sales to prohibited buyers, including the sale of the firearm used by the shooter in the deadly attack at Charleston’s Emanuel AME Church. In that case, the church shooter was able to buy a .45 caliber handgun, even though he admitted to a disqualifying drug crime. But due to a bureaucratic processing error, the FBI was unable to confirm the admission, and the mandatory 72 hours elapsed, so the gun purchase went forward.

Companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives is led by U.S. Representative James E. Clyburn (D-SC).

According to Everytown for Gun Safety, background checks stop gun sales to criminals every day. Since 1994, these laws have blocked more than 5 million gun sales to people who could not legally own guns.

“Background checks are effective, but only if they are allowed to be complete. Closing the Charleston loophole is a commonsense, overdue step to save lives and prevent guns from ending up in the hands of dangerous individuals who are ineligible to own them,” said Senator Reed. “Someone who is ineligible to own a gun shouldn't be able to obtain one just because of an error or a three day shot clock running out. Congress should close this dangerous loophole and invest in modernizing the FBI background check interface to enhance public safety and keep guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals.”

“America faces constant tragic reminders of how devastating gun violence can be. We need to do everything we can to keep guns out of the wrong hands, including making sure no one can purchase a gun without a background check,” said Senator Whitehouse, who serves on the Senate Judiciary Committee. “This commonsense measure to finally close a background check loophole is long overdue and will help save lives.”

The Background Check Completion Act would require a completed background check for every gun buyer who purchases a gun from a federally-licensed gun dealer.

In addition to Blumenthal, Reed, and Whitehouse, the Background Check Completion Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

The legislation has been endorsed by Everytown for Gun Safety, Giffords, Brady, Sandy Hook Promise and Newtown Action Alliance.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/us-senators-tell-vought-he-must-ask-for-cfpb-funding,U.S. Senators Tell Vought He Must Ask for CFPB Funding,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- In addition to filing an amicus brief challenging Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Acting Director Russell Vought’s attempt to dismantle the agency by illegally denying it the funds it needs to operate, members of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, led by U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) sent a letter directly to Acting Director Vought urging him to comply with the law and immediately ask the Federal Reserve for the maximum allowable amount to carry out the activities of the consumer watchdog agency.

In an effort to prevent the CFPB from fulfilling its statutory obligations to protect consumers from scams and predatory financial practices, Acting Director Vought is attempting to claim he cannot request funding because the Federal Reserve System is technically “unprofitable.”

Lawsuits are currently pending before Federal courts in DC and California against Acting CFPB Director Vought and the CFPB. The DC Court has already enjoined the CFPB from terminating some 2,400 employees and taking other specific actions in pursuit of Vought’s goal of minimizing the CFPB while the lawsuit is pending.

Full text of the letter follows:

December 16, 2025

The Honorable Russell Vought, Acting Director

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

1700 G St. NW

Washington, DC 20552

Dear Acting Director Vought:

We write to demand that you fulfill your obligation under the Dodd-Frank Act to ensure that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has the resources it needs to operate. The law is simple and obvious. It requires the CFPB to request the funding it needs each year from the Federal Reserve, which is then required to transfer the requested amount from its “combined earnings.” The CFPB’s role is only to make the funding request, not to question the source of the funding.

Nonetheless, you have solicited a spurious opinion from the Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) in the Department of Justice to justify your position that the CFPB cannot seek funding from the Federal Reserve. Based on the OLC’s disingenuous analysis that “combined earnings” means profits and not revenues, the CFPB would be able to seek funding only in years in which the Federal Reserve happens to be profitable. It is laughable to argue that Americans should be protected from predatory lending and abusive financial practices only in years when the Federal Reserve makes an accounting profit. Indeed, three federal courts, including two within the Fifth Circuit, have considered this analysis and none of them has endorsed it.

But even under this discredited legal theory, there is no rationale for CFPB not to seek funding. According to both the Bank Policy Institute and the American Enterprise Institute, which have been highly critical of the CFPB, the Federal Reserve is on pace to turn a substantial profit this quarter of up to $2 billion. This amount far exceeds the CFPB’s statutory funding cap. In other words, the Federal Reserve has ample “profits” from which to meet the CFPB’s funding needs.

We therefore request that you immediately submit a request to the Federal Reserve for the maximum allowable amount to carry out the activities of the CFPB, and we further request that you repudiate the OLC’s opinion.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/bipartisan-ndaa-to-strengthen-national-security-and-boost-ri-jobs,Bipartisan NDAA to Strengthen National Security & Boost RI Jobs,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"***VIDEO: SASC Ranking Member Reed delivers floor speech on FY26 NDAA***

WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to strengthen military readiness, revitalize our industrial base, and provide our troops with a pay raise and the tools to deter and defeat adversaries, the U.S. Senate today voted 76-20 to advance the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026 (S.1071). The measure already passed the full U.S. House of Representatives and is now on track for final passage by the full U.S. Senate later in the week.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, noted the bill authorizes $900.6 billion to strengthen and safeguard the nation, benefit U.S. troops and their families, improve the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DOD) acquisition process, protect civilian workers from arbitrary reductions in force, and boost Rhode Island’s economy – bringing more good-paying jobs to the Ocean State.

The NDAA strengthens congressional oversight of the Administration, enhances existing defense programs, and improves pay and benefits for servicemembers -- including a 3.8 percent pay increase for all servicemembers. It includes major investments in science and technology to advance cutting-edge research and concrete support for key U.S. allies and partners, including Ukraine.

Senator Reed stated: “This bipartisan, bicameral NDAA makes a lot of needed improvements that will help strengthen America’s economic, industrial, and military might. It invests in our servicemembers by increasing their pay and it protects civilian DOD employees too. It includes major quality of life enhancements in areas like childcare, housing, education, and more. The acquisition reforms will help speed the development and fielding of new systems and technology to our forces on the front lines. And it authorizes critical investments in technology and advanced weapons systems; strengthens our cyber capabilities; and bolsters innovative research and development efforts.”

Significantly, the bipartisan bill reaffirms America’s global leadership by extending the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative and authorizing additional security assistance to European partners. It strengthens our alliances in Asia by authorizing full funding the Pacific Deterrence Initiative and bolsters activities relating to the security partnership among Australia, United Kingdom, and the United States, known as AUKUS. Importantly, the bill seeks to guard against reckless reductions in U.S. force posture in Europe and the Indo-Pacific.

To improve congressional oversight of the Pentagon, the NDAA compels the Secretary of Defense to follow the law and submit to Congress a number of reports he has deliberately withheld. Specifically, the bill cuts off portions of the Secretary of Defense’s budget until he submits the execute orders and unedited videos of the boat strikes related to ongoing operations in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. The bill asserts congressional authority over several other areas in which the Secretary has been negligent.

Notably, this year’s NDAA would repeal the Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) that was adopted in the run-up to the invasion of Iraq but subsequently used to underpin a host of military actions worldwide since 2002.

Rhode Island defense workers, contractors, and suppliers would benefit from shipbuilding funds to build the Columbia-class submarine and Virginia-class submarine. Thousands of Rhode Islanders make critical contributions to designing, engineering, and building these next generation submarines, which are made by General Dynamics Electric Boat.

“The NDAA authorizes a $1.9 billion boost for the Virginia-class submarine program to ensure a two-per-year build rate. It also includes incremental funding authority for the Columbia-class submarine program to keep construction on track,” said Senator Reed. “And to strengthen our industrial base and boost wages for welders and shipyard workers at Quonset Point and Groton, Connecticut, and other places that help build submarines, it includes $615 million to help provide higher wages and workforce stability initiatives.”

In April, the U.S. Navy signed an $18.4 billion contract awarded to General Dynamics Electric Boat for production of two new Virginia-class fast attack submarines.

Hundreds of small businesses across Rhode Island supply the U.S. Department of Defense, and hardworking Rhode Islanders contribute to the creation of a wide range of military products, equipment, and services. Additionally, Rhode Island is home to the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport; Naval Station (NAVSTA) Newport; and the Naval War College. These facilities, along with leading academic research institutions and a network of suppliers and small businesses, contribute to a defense industry that is boosting Rhode Island’s economy and leading to advancements in technology and innovation.

A report by the Southeastern New England Defense Industry Alliance (SENEDIA) shows that the total direct and indirect economic impact from defense spending in Rhode Island accounted for $7.6 billion in 2022. The report found that Rhode Island’s defense industry is growing and supported a total of 34,068 direct and indirect jobs across the Ocean State with an annual payroll of $3 billion.

Other initiatives that benefit Rhode Island include authorizations of:

• $71.8 million for Navy applied research on undersea warfare technologies, led by the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC);

• $20 million for the Defense Established Programs to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR), which ensures Rhode Island universities may compete to perform cutting-edge basic research and partner with defense labs;

• $50 million in supplemental Impact Aid and $20 million in Impact Aid for schools with military dependent children with severe disabilities; and

$190 million for Military Construction funding for four projects at NUWC Newport:

$40 million for Consolidated RDT&E Systems Facility;

$73 million for Next Generation Secure Submarine Platform Facility;

$40 million for Submarine Payload Integration Laboratory; and

$37 million for Next Generation Torpedo Integration Lab

The bill previously passed the U.S. House of Representatives on a vote of 312-112. Now that cloture has been invoked by the U.S. Senate, the bill will be debated and then voted on for final passage.

Once it fully clears Congress, President Donald Trump is expected to sign it into law. While the NDAA authorizes federal funding, Congress must also appropriate spending through a separate Defense Appropriations bill. Senator Reed is a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and its subcommittee on defense.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-deadly-shooting-at-brown-university,Reed Statement on Deadly Shooting at Brown University,2025-12-13,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – Tonight, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) released the following statement on the shooting at Brown University earlier today at the Barus & Holley engineering and physics building:

“This is a horrific, active, and unfolding tragedy and it is important that everyone listens to law enforcement as they continue working to ensure the entire campus and surrounding community is safe and this threat is neutralized.

“We are heartbroken for the victims, their families, and all those impacted. Brown’s students and its neighbors are shaken. Some families, classmates, and loved ones are gathered together in hospital waiting rooms at this very moment waiting for updates on patients. We are with them in spirit. They will need the support of all us in the days ahead.

“As the situation evolves, my office is in direct contact with the Mayor’s office, university officials, and law enforcement, as well as some of the individuals impacted. As information comes in, I will continue to closely monitor the situation. The FBI and ATF are assisting and will work to ensure every federal resource required is available to assist the state, the City of Providence, and Brown University’s police and public safety officials. We appreciate the hard work and professionalism of our first responders and hospital staff.

“Every lead is being followed, every bit of video evidence reviewed, and the manhunt will relentlessly continue. Whoever did this must be captured and our efforts will not cease until justice is served.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-asks-doj-watchdog-to-probe-trump-admins-favorable-treatment-for-convicted-sex-offender-ghislaine-maxwell,Reed Asks DOJ Watchdog to Probe Trump Admin’s Favorable Treatment for Convicted Sex Offender Ghislaine Maxwell,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Donald Trump has a well-documented decades long relationship with federal inmate number 02879-509, a British socialite and child sex trafficker named Ghislaine Maxwell.

On July 2, 2020, the FBI tracked Ms. Maxwell to a secluded home in New Hampshire and arrested her. She was subsequently charged, convicted, and began serving a 20-year sentence for multiple counts of child sex trafficking in June of 2022. Now she is reported to be actively seeking a potential pardon or commutation of her sentence from the president.

Since the Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell case was first investigated twenty years ago, it has centered on predators in power and the ability of the wealthy and well-connected to sexually abuse over 80 young women while avoiding accountability and escaping justice.

Now, after his previous requests for information were ignored for months and stonewalled by the Trump Administration, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is asking an independent watchdog at the U.S. Department of Justice to open an investigation into the unprecedented favorable treatment of federal inmate number 02879-509, who, despite being a sex offender who is just a few years into her sentence, has been transferred from a Federal Correctional Institution in Tallahassee, Florida, to the minimum security Federal Prison Camp Bryan – better known as ‘Club Fed’ in Bryan, Texas.

The mysterious transfer came just days after extensive meetings with President Trump’s Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who previously represented Trump as his personal lawyer.

Senator Reed wants the public to know: “who requested that Ms. Maxwell be transferred to a prison camp; identifying which officials granted approval; and specifying which rules or procedures were waived or invoked to effectuate the transfer.” Reed is also asking the IG’s office to determine “whether any DOJ officials played any role in, or engaged in any communication with BOP regarding, Ms. Maxwell’s security designation and custody classification.”

This month, DOJ officials requested that a Federal judge in New York release grand jury testimony from investigations into both Maxwell and Epstein. But the release of these materials would only amount to a fraction of the 300 gigabytes of Epstein-related material that DOJ and FBI officials themselves have previously stated they have in their possession, but have not yet been made publicly available.

Last month, Congress enacted legislation requiring that DOJ release all unclassified documents, records, and communications related to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell by December 19.

This is not the first time the media has reported on favorable behind the scenes treatment factoring into the Epstein case.

After making a controversial deal in 2008 with the then-U.S. attorney in Miami -- who went on to become a cabinet member of President Donald Trump’s first Administration – Jeffrey Epstein was convicted and sentenced in Florida on state prostitution charges even though federal prosecutors in South Florida had enough evidence to fill a 53-page federal indictment on sex trafficking charges and other crimes. Epstein served just 13 months before he was released. He was arrested again in 2019 on sex-trafficking charges.

Full text of Reed’s letter to the Acting Inspector General follows:

Mr. Don R. Berthiaume, Acting Inspector General

U.S. Department of Justice

950 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington, DC 20530

Dear Acting Inspector General Berthiaume:

I write to request that you open an investigation into the favorable treatment of convicted child sex trafficker and sex offender Ghislaine Maxwell, including her transfer to a minimum security prison camp, following her meeting with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche on July 24.

On August 6 and October 23, I wrote to Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Director William Marshall seeking a formal explanation for Ms. Maxwell’s transfer along with any justifying documentation. Those letters are enclosed. He has yet to respond to the questions I raised in these letters. But on September 16, FBI Director Kash Patel testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee that BOP made the decision to transfer Ms. Maxwell.

Given the highly unusual circumstances surrounding Ms. Maxwell’s transfer and the enactment of a bipartisan law championed by victims of Ms. Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein requiring disclosure of information regarding their criminal conduct, I ask that you open an investigation covering the following issues, among others:

1. Identifying officials at the Department of Justice (DOJ), BOP, or elsewhere, who requested that Ms. Maxwell be transferred to a prison camp; identifying which officials granted approval; and specifying which rules or procedures were waived or invoked to effectuate the transfer.

2. Determining whether any DOJ officials played any role in, or engaged in any communication with BOP regarding, Ms. Maxwell’s security designation and custody classification.

3. Determining whether, in connection with her meeting with Mr. Blanche or otherwise, any inducements, incentives, or conditions were offered to Ms. Maxwell concerning her treatment or her sentence. If so, specify what was required of Ms. Maxwell in return.

4. Determining how frequently BOP independently exercises discretion to redesignate and reclassify inmates convicted of the same crimes as Ms. Maxwell in manner that results in a lower security level, and what role DOJ typically plays in BOP’s exercise of this discretion.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

-end-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-murkowski-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-safeguard-fema-mitigation-program,Reed & Murkowski Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Safeguard FEMA Mitigation Program,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – For years, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program has provided communities across the country with resources to proactively fortify their infrastructure against natural disasters, such as building floodwalls, fortifying bridges, or protecting wastewater treatment facilities from floods. But the Trump Administration tried to unilaterally defund and dismantle the program.

In an effort to make it easier for communities across the nation to better protect critical, at-risk infrastructure and community assets from worsening natural disasters, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) have introduced a bipartisan bill that would reinstate the BRIC program and protect it against elimination in the future.

The Building Resilience and Stronger Communities Act (S.3403) reestablishes BRIC, protects it against future cancellation, and makes key changes to amplify the local impact of federal investments made through the program.

Earlier this year, the Trump Administration attempted to cancel the BRIC program and prevent congressionally-appropriated BRIC funding from being distributed to states, claiming it was “wasteful and ineffective.” Today, a U.S. District Court judge stepped in to block the Administration’s effort to terminate the program and claw back funding. As the legal process continues, Reed and Murkowski’s bill will ensure the program is protected against future cancellation by requiring that FEMA administer the program, rather than leaving it as an option for the administration.

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. When it comes to disaster preparedness, every dollar we proactively invest in boosting the resilience of our communities helps us save big in the long-term,” said Senator Reed. “I am pleased to team with up with Senator Murkowski on this bill and appreciate her leadership to help protect critical infrastructure. Our bipartisan legislation will reinstate and protect the BRIC program against future cancellation. At the same time, it will make it easier for Rhode Island’s towns and cities of all sizes to leverage federal funds for projects that better protect their community assets, homes, and businesses and save taxpayer dollars.”

Since 2020, BRIC has directed more than $4.5 billion in federal investments that have helped communities across the country prepare for natural disasters, reduce the impacts of disasters, promote long-term safety, and better steward taxpayer funds through proactive and wise investments. Through BRIC, local governments have been able to carry out essential projects such as elevating at-risk infrastructure, reinforcing bridges, and improving drainage systems.

Studies have found that every dollar invested in resilience and preparedness save communities between $13 to $18 in damages, cleanup costs, and economic impact.

The legislation introduced by Senators Reed and Murkowski will make it easier for small communities to leverage BRIC funding. Commonsense reforms in the bill include increasing the federal cost-share for small projects and for efforts to protect critical facilities like hospitals, schools, police and fire stations, and power stations. The bill also expands eligibility to ensure tribal governments can access funding.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/republicans-block-the-lower-health-care-costs-act,Republicans Block the Lower Health Care Costs Act,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – By a vote of 51-48, Senate Republicans today filibustered passage of the Lower Health Care Costs Act, a clean 3-year extension of expiring Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits. Despite picking up support from four Senate Republicans, the bill fell 9 votes short of clearing the filibuster’s 60-vote threshold.

The Lower Health Care Costs Act, unanimously supported by Senate Democrats and Independents, would have ensured that consumers purchasing an ACA plan pay no more than 8.5 percent of their income on monthly health insurance premiums.

Forty-eight Senate Republicans voted against the bill, which means the ACA tax credits will expire at the end of the month absent a massive change on the part of Republicans and President Trump.

If that happens, roughly 24 million Americans will see the cost of their health care spike by an average of 114 percent, according to the non-partisan health research organization KFF. In Rhode Island, Republican obstruction of the bill means the state could lose $130 million in federal support, a sum that is not easily made up with a state-subsidized plan. Meanwhile, over 40,000 Rhode Islanders would face higher health care costs and up to 13,000 could lose coverage entirely, according to estimates from HealthSource RI.

Additionally, by forcing more Americans to lose their ACA health coverage, Republicans are also pushing the price of health insurance higher for everyone, as the remaining population on insurance will be sicker on average, a condition that health care experts often refer to as a worse “risk pool.” That makes it costlier for companies to insure the average policyholder. So as the Congressional Budget Office points out, the result of millions of consumers dropping their health insurance means that insurance will likely get more expensive for those who still have it.

Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) issued the following statement:

“Congress needs to lower health care costs, but Senate Republicans just voted to double people’s health premiums overnight, destabilize the health care marketplace, and impose steep price increases on working Americans.

“By denying people access to affordable, comprehensive care, and through their devastating Medicaid cuts, Congressional Republicans are increasing the odds of hospital and nursing home closures and making life more difficult for caregivers too.

“The ACA works because it is cost-effective and benefits everyone. But under the Trump Administration, Republican attacks on affordable health care and the ACA have been relentless. Their so-called ‘big ugly bill’ cut more than $1 trillion from Medicaid and health programs. And now, at the same time the president is prioritizing $20 billion in taxpayer dollars to prop up Argentina’s economy, he is pricing people out of their health coverage or forcing them to pay double just to keep what they already had.

“President Trump calls affordability a “hoax.” He is wrong. People understand this issue. They can feel the rising cost of health care and see their loved ones forced into untenable decisions. It is crystal clear who is on their side and who is putting the interest of billionaires ahead of working families.

“We can’t give up and Democrats won’t stop working to make health care more affordable for all Americans. There is still time to pass a simple extension and prevent an avoidable health care crisis, but Congressional Republicans need to come to the table. I will continue pushing practical, people-first solutions to restore these tax credits, restrain cost increases across the health care system, and make the ACA more effective and affordable.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-congressional-colleagues-warn-trumps-u-turn-on-ai-chip-sales-to-china-is-a-colossal-economic-and-national-security-failure,Reed & Congressional Colleagues Warn Trump’s U-Turn on AI Chip Sales to China is a “Colossal Economic and National Security Failure”,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- In a potentially significant blow to U.S. national security, President Trump announced that his Administration is reversing course and will greenlight the sale of NVIDIA’s powerful H200 chips to China, the second most powerful chip it currently produces. This is a major win for China’s artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities -- including AI-enabled military capabilities -- and a financial windfall for the chipmaker, but one that could come at a steep price for long-term U.S. interests and in the near term erodes a U.S. leadership advantage in advanced AI.

This week, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, questioned President Trump’s transactional maneuver and whether it is wise for the U.S. to lift the export controls and allow NVIDIA’s advanced chips to supercharge China’s AI factories, capabilities, and infrastructure.

“This flawed, transactional decision without a broader AI export control strategy could gift China’s military key technology gains and seems completely divorced from any consideration of America’s economic and national security interests,” noted Reed.

Congressional Republicans have also sounded the alarm. U.S. Representative John Moolenaar (R-MI), the chairman of the House’s Select Committee on Competition with China posted: “The CCP [Chinese Communist Party] will use these highly advanced chips to strengthen its military capabilities and totalitarian surveillance.”

Senator Reed joined several of his national security colleagues in panning the move as a “colossal economic and national security failure” and noting the sale of these sensitive chips to China offers the Chinese military “transformational technology to make its weapons more lethal, carry out more effective cyberattacks against American businesses and critical infrastructure, and strengthen their economic and manufacturing sector.”

Reed issued a joint statement with U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Ranking Member on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense; Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee; Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking Committee; Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations (SFOPS); Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking Subcommittee on National Security and International Trade and Finance; Michael Bennet (D-CO), a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee; and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee, sounding the alarm:

“The Trump administration’s announcement that it will allow the export of advanced H200 AI chips to China is a colossal economic and national security failure. The H200s are vastly more capable than anything China can make and gifting them to Beijing would squander America’s primary advantage in the AI race.

“Access to these chips would give China’s military transformational technology to make its weapons more lethal, carry out more effective cyberattacks against American businesses and critical infrastructure, and strengthen their economic and manufacturing sector. Chinese AI giant DeepSeek said as recently as last week that the lack of access to advanced American-designed AI chips is the single biggest impediment to its ability to compete with U.S. AI companies. With this decision, President Trump is poised to remove that barrier.

“Senate Democrats and Republicans both know that the 21st century will be defined by whether the leading AI systems are built on values of free societies and free markets or the repressive, authoritarian values of the Chinese Communist Party. The Trump administration clearly doesn’t grasp the urgency of this contest. President Trump must reverse course and recommit to preserving American dominance in AI,” the eight U.S. senators stated.

In 2022, the Biden Administration imposed sweeping restrictions on sales of advanced chips to China. On December 8, President Trump reversed that policy and approved the sale of NVIDIA’s H200 chips to “approved customers” in China, in exchange for 25 percent of the NVIDIA chip sale proceeds “will be paid to the United States of America,” in some sort of profit-sharing deal. According to the Trump Administration, the U.S. Department of Commerce is currently “finalizing the details” of H200 sales and will allow other U.S. chip manufacturers to sell advanced chips to China.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-urges-republicans-to-put-politics-aside-extend-affordable-care-act-tax-credits,"Reed Urges Republicans to Put Politics Aside, Extend Affordable Care Act Tax Credits",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"***VIDEO: Sen. Reed delivers remarks urging Senate to pass bill extending key ACA tax credits***

WASHINGTON, DC -- Ahead of this week’s U.S. Senate vote to prevent health insurance premiums from skyrocketing for tens of millions of Americans, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is urging members of Congress to put politics aside and prevent massive cost increases to people’s health premiums.

Ever since President Trump signed a law in July cutting nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid that will hit families, seniors, hospitals, nursing homes, and more, Senator Reed has been working to try to extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits and prevent roughly 24 million Americans from seeing a sudden spike in healthcare costs. Without the enhanced premium tax credits, ACA enrollees are facing average premium increases of 114 percent in 2026.

Many consumers have been delaying their health enrollment this year, partly because of the uncertainty over whether Republicans would block renewal of the ACA tax credits. Now it’s crunch time for Republicans who must decide before December 15th, if they are willing to help those wanting seamless health coverage starting on January 1, 2026 (note: you can shop for health coverage on Health Source RI through January 31, 2026 for coverage that starts later).

Senator Reed and all Senate Democrats unanimously support a clean, three-year extension of the ACA premium tax credits. But there’s no agreement yet from Republicans, who have offered their own last minute proposal, which would force families off their current comprehensive insurance plans and onto junk plans that leave them at real risk of falling into crippling medical debt if they develop a chronic illness.

If Senate Republicans force the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits at the end of the year it will drive up costs and Rhode Island could lose $130 million in federal support, a sum that is not easily made up with a state-subsidized plan. Meanwhile, over 40,000 Rhode Islanders would face higher health care costs and up to 13,000 could lose coverage entirely, according to estimates from HealthSource RI.

Forcing people to go without health care does not save taxpayers money and ends up increasing costs for everyone as the remaining population on insurance will be sicker on average, a condition that health care experts often refer to as a worse “risk pool.” That makes it costlier for companies to insure the average policyholder. So as the Congressional Budget Office points out, the result of millions of consumers dropping their health insurance means that insurance will likely get more expensive for those who still have it.

Reed implored his colleagues not to set health care progress back and take affordable health insurance away from those who need it.

Senator Reed noted that Congress has a responsibility to help protect families and ensure they can afford a health insurance plan that meets their needs, not force them to go without coverage, which ends up costing taxpayers more in the long run as greater numbers of people without health insurance seek uncompensated care in emergency rooms.

“Working families are already struggling to get by and President Trump’s tariffs are already raising the cost of living and increasing prices. If Republicans in Congress refuse to act, people in their states aren’t going to be able to afford coverage. And without coverage, the sad fact is some will not survive. So I hope my Republican colleagues will listen to their constituents and act in their best interests,” stated Reed.

Senator Reed delivered a floor speech on the Senate floor where he shared stories from several constituents, including:

Jeffrey from Westerly, Rhode Island wrote this to me:

“I am a retiree on a fixed income purchasing my health insurance through HealthSource RI. Today, I received a letter in the mail from the State of Rhode Island outlining the shocking details comparing my 2025 medical insurance costs with those projected for 2026.

“To give context, my current health insurance plan for my wife and I costs $1,181.86 per month, and after Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTC) of $896.58, we pay $285.28. The health insurance plan I have is projected to increase to $1,505.47 in 2026, for a 27.4% increase!! That in and of itself seems unconscionable with inflation running about 3% currently. However, the real kicker is that my tax credits are expected to expire and be $0 for 2026, which in real terms to me means that my health insurance monthly costs will skyrocket from $285.28 to $1,505.47, for a whopping increase of 428%!!!”

Nino from Wakefield, Rhode Island similarly said:

“I just got my estimated charges for healthcare in 2026 from HealthSourceRI. My cost is going up by over 300%!!!

“I can’t imagine how many of the 42 million Americans with ACA healthcare exchanges will lose their healthcare if the subsidies are not reinstated!”

Leigh wrote to me, saying:

“….[M]y insurance rates will climb on the marketplace from $773 to over $1300 and will be unaffordable. Without health insurance, I will die. I live with rare diseases that pose life threatening effects on a daily basis.

“We have no spare funds for an increase in our health insurance. This administration is trying to take away the only thing that is keeping me alive. I am a productive member of society. I am a defense contractor, I am a graduate student. I am a dog mom. I am a neighbor, friend, and community advocate. I matter.

“Please fight for me. Don't stop fighting for my ability to have health insurance and stay alive. If I go more than 3 days without meds, I can end up in the ER with a stroke. I need my job to afford meds. I need health insurance to be able to work. I need a graduate degree to keep my job. I'm supposed to graduate in Dec 2025 with a masters in system engineering. I need a car to get to school to get my degree. I need meds to drive my car.”

These are real people facing impossible decisions about their health care. And it’s not just happening in Rhode Island. There are people like Jeffrey, Nino, and Leigh in every state. And the tough choices they are facing are entirely avoidable. This bill we are about to vote on would do just that… prevent these drastic increases in health care costs… extend the tax credits… and provide certainty to everyone shopping for health care right now.

The Senate is scheduled to vote tomorrow on the extension of ACA tax credits.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/as-trumps-tariffs-jilt-american-farmers-and-consumers-his-proposed-bailout-could-make-things-worse,"As Trump’s Tariffs Jilt American Farmers & Consumers, His Proposed Bailout Could Make Things Worse",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – In a dubious effort to try and soften the blow to farmers negatively impacted by President Donald Trump’s unilateral tariff taxes and reckless trade war maneuvers, the White House is planning a $12 billion farm aid package.

According to news reports, much of the U.S. taxpayer funded aid -- $11 billion -- will be distributed in one time payments to major row crop farmers as a part of what the Trump Administration is calling “bridge” payments. The remaining $1 billion will go toward producers of fruits, vegetables, and other specialty crops.

Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) issued the following statement:

“President Trump’s tariffs are making things more expensive for average Americans. On the world stage, he’s become an unreliable partner to our allies and an unstable force for trade. As a result, he’s raising prices for consumers, undermining economic growth and holding back job creation and economic investment in the Grain Belt and across the country. Now, like an arsonist-firefighter who ignites a blaze in order to ride to the ‘so-called rescue,’ he is once again touting a bailout for farmers due to the financial catastrophe and market losses his chaotic policies created.

“President Trump’s ‘farmageddon’ tariff taxes have absolutely hammered family farmers by raising their costs and shrinking their foreign markets. His own Agriculture Department projects that U.S. crop receipts will hit an 18-year low this year, driven in large part by a Chinese boycott of American soybeans during this year’s trade war. This half-baked bailout scheme to unequally return a fraction of the funds Trump’s tariffs took from farmers and consumers is likely to be unevenly distributed and further distort the market. Instead of helping farmers and allowing them to compete on an even playing field, it could end up prolonging and exacerbating the economic downturn for rural America. The Trump Administration will pick winners and losers and small family farmers are the ones most likely to lose out while big agribusinesses and wealthy landowners cash-in. Our farmers want a chance to work and trade, not rely on more government aid.

“Meanwhile, American consumers are left paying higher prices and get no relief. The president should work with Congress to help make things easier for farmers, not harder. Instead of turning America’s grain belt into a rust belt, we need to win back customers for U.S. grown crops, not raise prices and make America less competitive.

“The House should join the Senate in passing legislation that reins in Trump’s reckless tariffs and the Supreme Court should make it clear the president has totally overstepped his bounds and exceeded his authority by imposing these sweeping and unjust import taxes.”

The U.S. Supreme Court could rule as soon as this month on the validity of the Trump Administration’s so-called ‘emergency tariffs.’ President Trump invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to levy blanket tariffs on goods from other countries. But Congress is the legislative branch of the U.S. government with oversight of taxation and spending -- not the president and the executive branch.

The U.S. Senate has repeatedly voted on a bipartisan basis to reject Trump’s tariffs and support resolutions to terminate Trump’s misuse of emergency powers to enact steep tariffs on American consumers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/republican-inaction-reed-rallies-support-for-vote-to-extend-key-aca-tax-credits-for-3-years,"Amidst Republican Inaction, Reed Rallies Support for Vote to Extend Key ACA Tax Credits for 3 Years",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI -- The U.S. Senate is set to vote this coming week on extending current Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits for over 21 million Americans -- including about 40,000 Rhode Islanders -- through a clean three-year extension before they expire at the end of the year.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) supports the bill and is urging his colleagues on both sides of the aisle to work together to renew the tax credits, which have helped millions of Americans afford to buy quality health insurance that meets their needs. If Republicans force the tax credits to expire, Americans across the country, regardless of where they get their health insurance, will face higher health costs and spiking premiums.

“It’s imperative that Congress work to bring health care costs down, but President Trump’s policies are forcing people to pay more to see a doctor or fill a prescription,” said Senator Reed. ""Democrats are unified around lowering health care costs for working Americans and have put forth a plan to prevent the doubling of health insurance premiums for millions of Americans. If Republicans block this bill it will send premium costs soaring and could trigger a tidal wave of hospital shutdowns and nursing home closures. Republicans took nearly one trillion from Medicaid in their billionaire-first mega bill and now average working families are the ones who could soon pay the price.”

Regardless of whether Americans have employer-sponsored insurance or purchase it through the ACA, people across all income levels could face health care changes in 2026 if Republicans for federal insurance subsidies to expire and Trump’s sweeping Medicaid cuts begin to take effect.

The enhanced ACA tax credits help Americans who earn up to 400 percent of the federal poverty level pay for insurance. Without those subsidies, experts at HealthSource RI say many Rhode Islanders could see their average monthly health costs double, depending on their circumstances and level of coverage. HealthSource RI enrollees are projected to pay about $111 more per person per month unless Republicans in Congress join with Democrats to extend enhanced federal tax credits that are expiring at the end of the year.

The vote to extend the ACA tax credits was procured last month as part of negotiations to end the federal government shutdown.

Democrats would need the support of at least 13 Republican Senators in order to overcome a filibuster, and even if the full Senate passes the bill it is unclear whether House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) would allow a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives before the end of the year.

“Democrats are the only ones with a concrete plan. Not still distant ‘concepts of a plan,’ but an actual plan. Republicans have disparaged Obamacare since it first became law fifteen years ago. And for the last fifteen years, the law has grown more popular as people see how it works, even as Republicans try to sabotage it,” said Reed. “I am for comprehensive coverage, smart reforms, anything that actually improves the law and enhances people’s lives and ensures they can afford the care they need. But I do not support this partisan blockade that is based on spite and will cost some families access to health care altogether. Republicans need to get their act together and get to work.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-colleagues-call-on-mcmahon-to-reverse-unlawful-attempts-to-dismantle-us-department-of-education-and-outsource-responsibilities,"Reed, Colleagues Call on McMahon to Reverse Unlawful Attempts to Dismantle U.S. Department of Education & Outsource Responsibilities",2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) joined 35 of his Senate colleagues in taking U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to task for attempting to shirk her duties and unlawfully transfer core Department of Education responsibilities to the departments of Labor, Interior, State, and Health and Human Services. The Senators sent a letter slamming the Trump Administration’s recent announcement that it has signed interagency agreements (IAAs) to illegally outsource core functions that students and their families rely on and called on the Secretary to reverse these latest steps that would further erode the Department of Education.

The 36 senators accused Secretary McMahon of creating “even more bureaucracy that states, school districts, and educational institutions across America will have to expend time and resources navigating at the expense of students and families.”

Today, Senator Reed stated: “Almost 90 percent of Rhode Island children attend public schools. Making sure they are well-resourced is critical for children and our nation’s economic future. The Trump Administration is shortchanging students and public schools nationwide. Trump’s reckless education cuts and dismantling of the Department of Education are sowing chaos in the programs that support students from academics to mental health to preparing them to succeed in college. The Trump Administration isn’t cutting red tape, it is cynically transferring responsibilities to other agencies, adding exponential layers of bureaucracy, and making it harder for taxpayers to get the services they pay for. Instead of focusing on how to improve their schools and meet their students’ needs, local school districts will be forced to jump through new hoops and could be shuttled between three or four different federal departments – with little expertise in education and public school systems. This is not a streamlined way to get people the answers and information they need to access resources Congress has provided to support our students. This plan deserves an F because it is failure by design.”

The letter notes: “The actions you announced on November 18th to continue hollowing out the U.S. Department of Education are outrageous, illegal, and will jeopardize the funding and support that tens of millions of students, teachers, and families across the country rely on. Your brazen attempt to dismantle the Department by transferring to other federal agencies complex and foundational responsibilities that Congress specifically charged to the Department—including more than half of all federal funds for elementary and secondary education programs and billions in higher education funding—will undermine public education.”

The letter continues: “We urge you to immediately reverse course and to focus your time and attention on actions that actually help states, school districts and educational institutions improve educational outcomes and support for students.”

“We expect you to work with Congress to pursue any ideas to streamline programs and improve public education, as the law and the Constitution require, and you have yourself stated you would do in your confirmation hearing. … Congress has unambiguously authorized dozens of education programs to be administered by the Department through numerous laws and has clearly appropriated funding on a bipartisan basis for decades to the Department to carry out those programs. Appropriations law prohibits the transfer of funds to another federal agency unless expressly authorized in appropriations law, which it has not done in this case,” added the senators.

The senators continued: “Unfortunately, we have already seen negative consequences for states, schools, colleges, and students as these IAAs roll out: the first IAA inked earlier this year between the Department and DOL on career and technical education and adult education has been plagued with serious challenges—and it is but a small fraction of what is now being transferred to DOL.”

In addition to Senator Reed, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Bernie Sanders (I-ME), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Tina Smith (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chris Coons (D-DE), Alex Padilla (D-CA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mark Warner (D-VA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Gary Peters (D-MI) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO).

Full text of the letter follows:

Dear Secretary McMahon:

The actions you announced on November 18 to continue hollowing out the U.S. Department of Education (“the Department”) are outrageous, illegal, and will jeopardize the funding and support that tens of millions of students, teachers, and families across the country rely on. Your brazen attempt to dismantle the Department by transferring to other federal agencies complex and foundational responsibilities that Congress specifically charged to the Department—including more than half of all federal funds for elementary and secondary education programs and billions in higher education funding—will undermine public education. This is the latest example of this administration’s complete lack of regard for our laws and its failure to provide the certainty, clarity, and stability that students and schools deserve when it comes to the federal government’s approach and commitment to properly implementing federal education laws and appropriations.

Let’s be very clear: You are choosing to create even more bureaucracy that states, school districts, and educational institutions across America will have to expend time and resources navigating at the expense of students and families. We urge you to immediately reverse course and to focus your time and attention on actions that actually help states, school districts and educational institutions improve educational outcomes and support for students. We expect you to work with Congress to pursue any ideas to streamline programs and improve public education, as the law and the Constitution require, and you have yourself stated you would do in your confirmation hearing.

The Department of Education is the only federal agency whose sole mission is to help children learn and improve their educational outcomes. The Department delivers much-needed federal funding and enforces basic educational guardrails and civil rights protections so that every child can get the quality public education that they are entitled to under the law, no matter who they are or where they live. Congress has unambiguously authorized dozens of education programs to be administered by the Department through numerous laws and has clearly appropriated funding on a bipartisan basis for decades to the Department to carry out those programs. Appropriations law prohibits the transfer of funds to another federal agency unless expressly authorized in appropriations law, which it has not done in this case. When Congress wants another agency to administer a program or function, it has expressly said so—and in some cases, it has provided authority to transfer funds to allow this to happen. By contrast, Congress has not expressly authorized any other agency to administer the programs established under the previously mentioned laws, nor has it provided the authority for the Department to transfer these programs and associated funding to another agency.

The November 18 announcement outlines six interagency agreements (IAAs) with the Departments of Labor, Interior, Health and Human Services, and State to transfer major responsibilities out of the Department of Education. The authorities cited in the IAAs do not enable the Department to do an end-run around the relevant authorizing and appropriating statutes. For example, the Department cites the Economy Act to justify its use of the IAA framework. While the Economy Act is routinely used by other federal agencies to enter into IAAs for the procurement of discrete goods and services that a particular agency might have expertise in and authority to provide, such as DOJ’s fingerprinting authority, this authority was never contemplated to allow the transfer of major program functions or entire offices to another agency with the express stated purpose of eventually dismantling the agency or putting the Secretary “out of a job.” Federal resources outlining the purpose of the Economy Act make this clear. This view is further affirmed by the Department’s inability to cite a single instance of using this statute or any others in a similar way prior to this year.

You have expressed your interest in working with Congress on these issues, but these IAAs were developed in secret without outside input. The fiscal year 2026 budget request for the Department makes no reference to administering these programs at other agencies and the fiscal year 2026 budget request for the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), for example, makes no reference to administering them either. The Secretaries of Labor, Interior, State, and HHS have similarly never testified to Congress on how they would carry out and administer these critical education programs.

Since you were nominated to lead the Department, you have routinely misled the public about the level of involvement the Department has long had in the day-to-day management of schools—inaccurately suggesting that the Department was depriving states and families from making choices about their children’s education, shackling teachers with burdensome regulations and paperwork and causing K-12 and college students to experience “drudgery caused by administrative burdens.” On the basis of these false assertions, you have strangely claimed that we need to “Return Education to the States.” In fact, states and local communities have—since the founding of our republic—had the primary responsibility for educating our students and the establishment of the Department in 1979 did nothing to change that fact. In fact, there are numerous federal laws that prevent the Department from being involved in the day-to-day decision making in schools and colleges as it relates to curriculum, teaching, and programs.

Until your arrival at the Department, its role has been to provide funding, support, and oversight as authorized by federal education laws to ensure students from all walks of life and in every part of the country can get a high-quality public education. The Department’s programs ensure that parents get timely, accessible information about how their kids’ schools are doing. They ensure students with disabilities’ rights are enforced, so that they can get the education they are entitled to. The Department administers programs to help under-resourced rural school districts and allocates Impact Aid for more than 1,000 school districts with a reduced revenue base or increased costs due to a federal presence, such as a military base. It also administers programs to help first-generation and low-income students pursue and succeed in college. These are just a select few examples of the indispensable supporting role that the federal government—and the Department, in particular—plays in advancing educational outcomes for students.

To justify these new IAA’s, you say federal funding will keep flowing to states, school districts, and colleges. But we have already seen funding held up and seriously delayed because of this administration’s chaotic changes—and its extreme policies—and the moves you announced last week are certain to further jeopardize these funds.

You claim these actions will improve student achievement, yet your actions will significantly weaken federal monitoring of states’ K-12 accountability and school improvement systems. Before Congress mandated that states develop these systems with key guardrails in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, several states had weak or no school improvement systems, which allowed vulnerable students to slip through the cracks. As part of ESEA and subsequent appropriations directives, Congress has charged OESE with improving state compliance in state and local school report cards requirements, school improvement, and more. But without the staff expertise from OESE, it is likely that DOL will be ineffective in holding states accountable for improving student outcomes.

The Department also provides deep policy expertise to ensure programs support improved student outcomes, such as through expert guidance to colleges and universities to improve college access, retention, and completion through programs like TRIO, GEAR UP, the Postsecondary Student Success Grant Program, and others. Now, DOL, who lacks the necessary expertise, is tasked with managing these programs and students will suffer as a result.

DOL has no prior experience in administering education programs at this scale and complexity and will need to develop the capacity and processes to allot billions of dollars in funding to state and local educational agencies. States will also have to make changes to receive any funds distributed through DOL’s grant system while continuing to draw down prior year grant funding in the Department’s system. Your IAA also seems to suggest the Department will still retain some authorities over Title I-A, which means that states will now have to work with two federal agencies when they need help navigating this complex and absolutely critical program. These changes solve exactly zero problems but manage to create an onslaught of new ones. We are very concerned that these changes will mean funds our constituents rely on will not continue to flow as intended under federal education laws.

In addition to its scope and complexity, the Title I-A program primarily funds instruction and activities in elementary schools. We do not believe kindergartners or other elementary school students should be the focus of efforts to integrate workforce programming and education activities, activities that are better suited to older students. Instead of improving students’ readiness for the workforce, the move of Title I-A to DOL is much more likely to deprive states and school districts of the technical assistance and support they need to effectively implement federal education funding in their schools and provide high-quality educational opportunities to all students.

DOL already has a comprehensive workload to support the nation’s workers and workforce programs. It is authorized and funded to administer workforce training and enforce worker protection programs for which Congress appropriates $13.5 billion in discretionary funding annually, including for roughly a dozen workforce training grant programs totaling approximately $4 billion in annual funding. In addition to lacking the subject area expertise needed to administer the Department’s programs, DOL does not have the grant administration capacity to take on the work outlined in the IAA; the approximately $30 billion in the Department’s funding across approximately 50 discrete formula and competitive education grant programs that you seek to transfer now to DOL dwarf its current grant administration and oversight work. Transferring basic and significant responsibilities for administering education programs to DOL creates very significant risks of delays in funding and other administrative challenges for states, school districts, institutions of higher education, and other organizations through Impact Aid, rural education programs, afterschool programs, TRIO, and foundational education formula grant programs that tens of thousands of schools count on to help provide a quality education to millions of students.

Unfortunately, we have already seen negative consequences for states, schools, colleges, and students as these IAAs roll out: the first IAA inked earlier this year between the Department and DOL on career and technical education and adult education has been plagued with serious challenges—and it is but a small fraction of what is now being transferred to DOL. In fact, as your own staff reportedly concluded in its analysis after this transfer, “The size and scope of OCTAE's programs are miniscule [sic] compared to other [Education Principal Operating Components] and programs…Larger formula grants and competitive grants are going to be much more difficult to migrate.” States and districts faced delays in accessing their Perkins CTE funding, and advocates report delays in guidance and training issued by DOL. Moreover, a CTE expert recently testified before the House of Representatives, “At a time of scarce resources, it’s hard to understand why the Department is paying Labor to do work that it can do for itself.” The fiscal year 2025 funding level for Perkins CTE and adult education was $2.18 billion, whereas the other programs DOL will now be responsible for are funded at roughly $30 billion. If the administrative costs balloon under these new IAAs as the administrative costs under the CTE IAA have, not only will these IAAs be terrible for students, their families, and educators, they will also be a catastrophic waste of time and money for the American taxpayer.

The Department has provided no substantive detail or even basic information about how the significant changes envisioned by these IAAs would be implemented. The other federal agencies that will suddenly have significant responsibilities in administering billions in education funding—have provided no information about their roles or their capacity to carry out these programs and activities. The plan seems clear—to jam these changes through for a talking point, whatever the consequences may be for states, school districts, schools, students, and families.

We once again demand that you reverse these detrimental plans and refocus your efforts on supporting state and local efforts by properly implementing federal laws intended to improve educational opportunities and outcomes for all students, especially those who count on the Department doing its job most.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-whitehouse-and-kelly-want-airlines-that-cause-cancellations_delays-to-compensate-passengers-with-cash,"Reed, Whitehouse & Kelly Want Airlines That Cause Cancellations & Delays to Compensate Passengers with Cash",2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – In an effort to require airlines to provide financial compensation to passengers if air carriers cause significant delays, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse are teaming up with U.S. Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and a dozen of their colleagues to introduce the Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act (S.3347).

This new legislation would better protect passengers by requiring airlines to provide cash compensation and free rebooking for passengers facing significant delays or cancellations caused by the airline. The bill would also direct the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to mandate airlines reimburse passengers for hotels, meals, and transportation to lodging as a result of flight disruptions, regardless of the cause of the delay.

The Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act comes in response to the Trump Administration’s cancellation of a popular consumer protection rule in the making that would have required airlines to compensate passengers for preventable travel cancellations or delays.

“Flying is already stressful and expensive. Airlines have to be accountable when they cost the American people money and travelers are left stranded,” said Senator Kelly. “We’re working to make sure that passengers are protected so that cancellations and delays don’t cost them money out of their own pockets.”

“Travelers shouldn’t have to foot the bill for airline-caused flight delays or cancellations. This bill would require DOT to reinstate common-sense compensation for passengers when they experience lengthy flight delays or cancellations within the airline’s control,” said Senator Reed.

“Air travel disruptions cost passengers time, aggravation and money,” said Senator Whitehouse. “Our commonsense legislation would hold airlines accountable for disruptions, providing travelers cash compensation and fair reimbursements when travel plans get fouled up, and giving airlines more incentive not to foul them up in the first place.”

In addition to Kelly, Reed, and Whitehouse, the bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumental (D-CT), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-WA).

Multiple consumer and air traveler advocates are supporting the legislation:

“Delays and cancellations are far and away the Number 1 complaint of airline passengers. Most are due to causes within airline control such as lack of airworthy equipment, flight personnel or not enough paying passengers, not weather or air traffic control. FlyersRights, the largest airline passenger organization, believes delay compensation is essential to improve air travel reliability and endorses the subject legislation. Delay compensation is the norm outside the US. Recent studies show major increases in lengthy delays is accelerating,” said FlyersRights President Paul Hudson.

“At a time when this DOT appears to be abandoning the public, it’s critical for Congress to step up,” said National Consumers League Senior Public Policy Manager Eden Iscil. “This bill would bring consumer protections for flying into the 21st Century and in line with those found in many international jurisdictions. There’s no reason an American airline should provide better care for its passengers when departing from Frankfurt while still denying those same basic accommodations for flights out of Phoenix.”

Under the Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act, the DOT would be required to issue regulations that:

Require the DOT to establish an Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) that includes consumer protection groups to develop recommendations for how to implement rules that would require air carriers to provide consumers experiencing significant flight disruptions cash compensation, free rebooking, and reimbursements for passenger care needs such as meals, lodging for overnight delays, and transportation to and from lodging;

Require the ARC to develop recommendations for passenger compensation in alignment with foreign standards, including the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) Air Passenger Protection Regulations and Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council;

Set a baseline standard of compensation of at least $300 for a delay of more than 3 hours but less than 6 hours; and at least $600 for a delay of 6 hours or more;

Direct DOT to undertake a rulemaking to implement the ARC recommendations within 90 days after the ARC report is submitted; and",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/as-book-bans-spread-reed-and-grijalva-introduce-right-to-read-act-to-boost-literacy_strengthen-school-libraries,"As Book Bans Spread, Reed & Grijalva Introduce Right to Read Act to Boost Literacy & Strengthen School Libraries",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Literacy opens the door for lifelong opportunity and economic success. To make sure this door is open to every child, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and U.S. Representative Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ-07) introduced the Right to Read Act, which will close gaps in access to school library resources and surge federal investment in support of increasing student literacy across America.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, reading scores for American nine-year-olds have dropped to their lowest point since 1990.

Research consistently shows that access to school libraries makes a big difference in giving kids the skills and inspiration they need to become proficient and enthusiastic readers. Students who utilize their school libraries have 73 percent higher literacy rates than their peers who do not. However, not every student has access to a school library or school librarian.

The Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics reports that about 8,830 public schools across America do not have a school library. For schools that do, nearly 17,000 do not have a full- or part-time librarian. Vulnerable students face even greater disadvantages in accessing strong school library programs, with students experiencing the highest levels of poverty being 30 percent more likely to not have a school library at all.

School libraries are most effective when they offer resources that resonate, engage, and empower students. Yet, during the 2024-2025 school year, PEN America recorded 6,870 instances of book bans across 23 states and 87 public school districts. Since 2021, the organization has tracked nearly 23,000 book bans in public schools.

The Right to Read Act will help close these gaps, ensuring that students have evidence-based reading instruction, well stocked and staffed school libraries, family literacy programs, a wide range of reading materials, and the freedom to choose what to read. It also addresses the information digital literacy needs of today’s students. The bill goes further to strengthen effective school libraries by investing in recruiting and retaining state-certified school librarians and supporting staff working to broaden access to library collections.

“Our students deserve to have an education that prepares them for future success. Decades of research tells us that strong school library programs help our students improve test scores, deepen their understanding of key topics, and achieve higher graduation rates,” said Senator Reed, the leading champion for libraries in Congress. “The Right to Read Act makes sure that every student across America has access to the opportunities that literacy provides them through high-quality, appropriately staffed school libraries and a wide range of books and reading material to choose from.”

“As a former school board member, I’ve seen how libraries can spark confidence, curiosity, and opportunity for our children,” said Congresswoman Grijalva. “But today, thousands of students – especially those in our highest-poverty schools – don’t have access to a library or a certified librarian. At the same time, politically-motivated book bans are limiting the stories and ideas students can explore. Books open doors; censorship closes them. The Right to Read Act tackles these inequities head-on by investing in evidence-based literacy, rebuilding and staffing school libraries, and defending every child’s right to read.”

The Right to Read Act would reauthorize the Comprehensive Literacy State Development grant program at $500 million and the Innovative Approaches to Literacy program at $100 million.

This legislation reaffirms that first amendment rights apply to school libraries in response to the alarming trend of book banning, and it protects school librarians and other educators in carrying out their duty to protect students’ right to read.

In addition to Senator Jack Reed and Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Angus King (I-ME), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) in the Senate and U.S. Representatives Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01), and Summer Lee (D-PA-12) in the House.

The legislation is supported by the American Library Association (ALA) and its division, the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), as well as the American Federation of Teachers, PEN America, Reach Out and Read, the National Education Association, and the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE).

“School librarians and media specialists uplift students every school day across our nation” said American Library Association President Sam Helmick.” Librarians help students learn to read and inspire them to read to learn. The Right to Read Act strengthens the resources they depend on, ensuring every student has early, equitable access to up-to-date books, technology, and expert guidance. We applaud Sen. Jack Reed and Rep. Adelita Grijalva for championing this essential legislation.”

“The evidence is clear: well-resourced school libraries and certified school librarians are not optional, they are foundational to student success,” said American Association of School Librarians President Amanda Kordeliski. “More than fifty years of research across over sixty studies show that students with access to full-time, state-certified librarians and robust collections consistently perform better academically. When we invest in school librarians, we are investing in equity, literacy, and the future of our communities.""

“As educators, we know that reading opens the world for kids. Literacy is fundamental to student success, empowerment and a strong democracy. The Right to Read Act ensures students have access to evidence-based reading instruction and a well-stocked school library. The legislation shares our goal of encouraging a love of reading and ensuring teachers, paraprofessionals and librarians have the resources they need. Sen. Reed is a champion for literacy and libraries because he knows that literacy is foundational to our kids’ success in school and in life,” said Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers.

“PEN America applauds U.S. Sen. Jack Reed and Rep. Adelita Grialva for reintroducing the Right to Read Act. Public school libraries are gateways for young readers to learn about themselves and others through the stories, experiences, and histories shared in books. Efforts to ensure access to libraries and books for students are essential in upholding our rights to read and learn,” said Kasey Meehan, Freedom to Read program director at PEN America.

“Reach Out and Read applauds Senator Reed and Representative Grijalva for reintroducing the Right to Read Act, which calls for increasing the authorization for the Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) program to $100 million. The IAL program serves an important role creating a comprehensive approach to early childhood literacy and development, including pediatric literacy programs used by trained medical providers during well-child visits. Reach Out and Read looks forward to working with Congress to continue bringing attention to early literacy and child development,” said Dr. Lynette Fraga, Ph.D., chief executive officer of Reach Out and Read.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-dod-inspector-general-report-on-secretary-hegseths-mishandling-of-classified-information,Reed Statement on DOD Inspector General Report on Secretary Hegseth's Mishandling of Classified Information,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement responding to the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General report on Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's use of Signal to share highly sensitive operational information:

“The Inspector General's findings confirm that Secretary Hegseth violated military regulations and continues to show reckless disregard for the safety of American servicemembers.

“The report makes clear that Secretary Hegseth violated Department of Defense policies and shared information that was classified at the time it was sent to him. These were precise strike timings and locations that, had they fallen into enemy hands, could have enabled the Houthis to target American pilots. Contrary to the Administration’s claims, this report is the opposite of ‘total exoneration’ for the Secretary. The IG concluded this information could have jeopardized the mission and endangered U.S. personnel.

“For months, Secretary Hegseth has attempted to mislead Congress and the American people, claiming repeatedly that no classified information was involved. The Inspector General has now definitively cast doubt on those false assurances.

“While the report notes that Secretary Hegseth has declassification authority, it fails to explain why he believed it appropriate or necessary to declassify and share sensitive battlefield information on an unsecured commercial platform with unauthorized recipients, including family members and his personal attorney. It is also clear that he did not follow established procedures for declassification that apply to every other classification official throughout the Department.

“The IG's findings reinforce a troubling pattern: there appear to be two standards in Mr. Hegseth's Pentagon: one for himself, and one for everyone else. If any other military servicemember or Defense Department employee engaged in similar conduct, they would face severe consequences, including potential prosecution.

“I want to thank Acting Inspector General Stebbins and his team for their thorough and professional work on this investigation. Chairman Wicker and I requested an independent review that would provide the American people with a complete accounting of the facts, and the Inspector General provided it.

“This report validates the serious concerns I hold about Secretary Hegseth's judgment, competence, and fitness to lead our nation's military. I urge Secretary Hegseth to explain himself to Congress, the public, and the servicemembers he leads. The men and women of our armed forces deserve leadership they can trust with their lives.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-september-2nd-boat-strike-briefing,Reed Statement on September 2nd Boat Strike Briefing,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement after receiving a briefing on the Trump Administration’s September 2nd boat strike in the Caribbean:

“I am deeply disturbed by what I saw this morning. The Department of Defense has no choice but to release the complete, unedited footage of the September 2nd strike, as the President has agreed to do. This briefing confirmed my worst fears about the nature of the Trump Administration’s military activities, and demonstrates exactly why the Senate Armed Services Committee has repeatedly requested – and been denied – fundamental information, documents, and facts about this operation. This must and will be the only beginning of our investigation into this incident.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-joins-bipartisan-bicameral-resolution-recognizing-the-50th-anniversary-of-the-individuals-with-disabilities-education-act,"Reed Joins Bipartisan, Bicameral Resolution Recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) has joined with U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) to introduce a resolution marking 50 years since Congress passed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

The bipartisan, bicameral measure was introduced by U.S. Representatives Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Glenn Thompson (R-Pa.), Hillary Scholten (D-Mich.), and John James (R-Mich.) in the House of Representatives.

The resolution recognizes the historic step IDEA took by mandating that every child with a disability in America be given equal access to a free, appropriate public education.

“Congress passed IDEA to ensure all students have the same access to a high-quality public education that prepares them for a successful future. Millions of students, families, and educators have benefited from this critical legislation and the expanded reach of special education services it has fueled over the years,” said Senator Reed. “As we mark five decades since the bill was signed into law, we must join together and renew our shared commitment to the promise of full inclusion that IDEA gives to students with disabilities and their families.”

“Since its passage fifty years ago, IDEA has opened the doors to a quality education for millions of students with disabilities across America. On IDEA’s anniversary, we honor all those who fought to make IDEA a reality and celebrate the dedicated educators who support students with disabilities in and out of the classroom. While we take stock of the progress that has been made because of this landmark legislation, I remain committed to the fight to fully fund IDEA – to move us closer to delivering greater, more equal access to high-quality education for every student in this country,” said Senator Van Hollen, who has also introduced the IDEA Full Funding Act.

“All children deserve an education that gives them the resources they need to reach their full potential,” said Dr. Cassidy. “By empowering parents to partner in their child’s education and equipping teachers with resources, IDEA ensures children with disabilities have the opportunity to succeed in the classroom.”

This resolution is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), 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), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). In the House, it is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Alma Adams (D-N.C.-12), Don Bacon (R-Neb.-02), Dina Titus (D-Nev.-01), Emily Randall (D-Wash.-06), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.-01), Gabe Evans (R-Colo.-08), Kevin Hern (R-Okla.-01), Jack Bergman (R-Mich.-01), Janelle Bynum (D-Ore.-05), Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.-03), Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R-Northern Mariana Islands), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.-08), Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif-01), Julie Fedorchak (R-N.D.) Laura Friedman (D-Calif-30), John Mannion (D-N.Y.-22), James Moylan (R-Guam), Maria Elvira Salazar (R-Fla.-27), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.-24), David Valadao (R-Calif.-22).

The Senators’ resolution is endorsed by The School Superintendents Association (AASA), Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO), Council for Exceptional Children, the National Center for Learning Disabilities, and National PTA.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-colleagues-urge-us-treasury-secretary-to-reject-proposed-dollar-coin-designs-featuring-sitting-president,"Reed, Colleagues Urge U.S. Treasury Secretary to Reject Proposed Dollar Coin Designs Featuring Sitting President",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is teaming up with U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and several Senate Democrats in sending 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 nine U.S. 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.”

Additional signatories of the letter include U.S. Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

Full text of the letter follows:

Dear Secretary Bessent,

American lawmakers throughout history have reaffirmed the time-honored tradition of not circulating U.S. currency with images of currently elected officials. 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.

Unfortunately, on November 18, 2025, the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC) published the semiquincentennial $1 coin design proposals, which includes three different portrait options of President Trump on the obverse design. 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.

Furthermore, historically, federal law forbids the inclusion of living people on U.S. currency. The Contraction Act of 1866 (31 U.S.C. § 5114(b)). specifically states that “[o]nly the portrait of a deceased individual may appear on United States currency and securities.”2The potential inclusion of President Trump’s image on a semiquincentennial coin would violate 31 U.S.C. § 5114(b).

When Congress passed the Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act of 2020 (P.L. 116-330), it was seen as an opportunity for the U.S. Mint to honor our Nation’s Semiquincentennial by providing unique quarters and dollars related to our long history. The law clearly requires that the designs selected by you following your consultation with the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts and the CCAC be “emblematic of the United States semiquincentennial, including at least one quarter dollar design emblematic of a woman’s or women’s contribution to the birth of the Nation or the Declaration of Independence or any other monumental moments in American History.” It also requires that your design selections be made “in consultation with the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and with recommendations from the general public.” As the coin design featuring President Trump does not satisfy those requirements, you must reject it.

There is a time and place for Presidents to be honored with circulating currency. The Presidential $1 Coin Act (PL: 109-145) would provide that honor upon the death of the President. That authority has expired. The Presidential and First Spouse Coin Act of 2025 (S. 633) would automatically mint $1 coins for all presidents posthumously. All Presidents who have died, with the exception of the recently deceased President Jimmy Carter, have been honored with a $1 circulating coin.

In closing, we urge you to follow the intent of the law and choose designs for the Semiquincentennial quarter and dollar that honor images and concepts foundational to American history, not those honoring or promoting the current President of the United States.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-welcomes-24-million-in-liheap-aid-to-help-riers-lower-home-energy-bills,Reed Welcomes $24 Million in LIHEAP Aid to Help RIers Lower Home Energy Bills,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- As families brace for cold weather and higher utility bills, approximately $3.7 billion in delayed federal funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is finally being released by the Trump Administration.

LIHEAP is a crucial lifeline that keeps vulnerable citizens safe and warm during winter by helping low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes pay their energy bills. The program also helps reduce energy costs through improved energy efficiency initiatives. Nationwide, an estimated 6 million households received assistance with heating and cooling costs through LIHEAP over the last year.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), a leading member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and a Congressional champion for LIHEAP, cheered the release of funds and says it includes $24,068,998 for Rhode Island. Reed led a November 14 letter calling for the swift release of the funding.

“We can’t just leave vulnerable people in the cold. LIHEAP is a lifeline and getting this aid to those who need it is a moral and economic imperative. We’ve got to move faster and provide robust LIHEAP funding because more and more people are struggling and falling behind with higher energy bills,” said Senator Reed.

The federal LIHEAP aid was held up during the beginning of the cold-weather season because of the federal government shutdown, which ended on November 12. In an internal communication sent to state agencies on November 18, the Trump Administration said it anticipated releasing approximately $3.7 billion in LIHEAP funding by the end of November. That message was sent by the Administration for Children and Families, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) division that currently oversees LIHEAP, after the Trump Administration terminated the entire LIHEAP staff in early April – about two dozen federal workers who were tasked with managing the multi-billion program annually.

Reed noted that in addition to terminating the entire LIHEAP staff, the Trump Administration proposed eliminating LIHEAP entirely in its annual budget blueprint, but Congress voted on a bipartisan basis to continue funding the program, with Senator Reed working on a bipartisan basis with Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) to include a $20 million increase for LIHEAP, raising the overall amount to $4.045 billion in the Senate’s Labor-HHS-Education and Related Agencies Appropriations bill for fiscal year 2026.

“This latest infusion of federal LIHEAP funding will provide overdue support to families in need and help them cope with high energy costs. In addition to easing the strain on household budgets, the release of LIHEAP funds also helps local small businesses that supply home heating fuel to customers with fixed or limited incomes,” said Senator Reed.

LIHEAP is administered by states and accessed in Rhode Island through local Community Action Agencies. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources.

Nationwide, an estimated 6 million households received assistance with heating and cooling costs through LIHEAP over the last year, including over 28,200 Rhode Island households.

The average household will pay about $976 for home heating this winter, up from $907 just a year ago — an increase that outpaces inflation, according to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association.

Last year, the average LIHEAP benefit covered about $500 in winter home heating costs for eligible Rhode Islanders.

Rhode Islanders wishing to apply for LIHEAP may click here to reach the Rhode Island Department of Human Services website to get more information and links to an online application.

Senator Reed noted that while the overdue release of these federal funds to state agencies is good news, he remains deeply concerned about the Trump Administration decimating the LIHEAP staff and the impact it could have on the federal government’s ability to effectively manage the program and assist states with LIHEAP going forward. Reed says he has no doubt that President Trump will once again try to eliminate LIHEAP altogether but vowed to continue working on a bipartisan basis to include LIHEAP funding in future Appropriations laws.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-shooting-of-national-guard-soldiers-in-washington-dc,"Reed Statement on Shooting of National Guard Soldiers in Washington, DC",2025-11-26,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, after two National Guard soldiers were shot in Washington, DC, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:

“I am profoundly saddened and disturbed by the shooting of two National Guard soldiers in our nation’s capital today. Every member of the National Guard serves with a commitment to protect their country and support their community. It is unconscionable that these two soldiers were attacked while carrying out that mission.

“My thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with their families, loved ones, and the entire Guard community, and I hope for the soldiers’ swift and full recovery. This was a reprehensible act of violence, and I expect law enforcement to pursue accountability to the fullest extent of the law.

“There is no place for violence like this in our country. In this difficult moment, I urge calm, compassion, and unity.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/pawtucket-wwii-veteran-lauded-posthumously,Pawtucket WWII Veteran Lauded Posthumously,2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"CRANSTON, RI – On January 16, 1943, Henry Ambrose Maynard of Pawtucket left his job with the New Haven Railroad and enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force. Sergeant Maynard served as a radio mechanic for the 93rd Bombardment Squadron in the Pacific during World War II.

Sgt. Maynard joined his two older brothers – Vincent and Raymond – who were also serving overseas in the U.S. military during the war. He received training as a radio mechanic at the Capitol Radio Engineering Institute in Washington, DC and received top marks from his instructors. During the war, radio mechanics were responsible for ensuring vital communication lines remained open in extremely difficult conditions and were absolutely crucial for aircraft in order to navigate, coordinate, and communicate.

Upon returning home from the war, Maynard capitalized on his training as a radio mechanic to launch a lengthy and successful career as an electrical engineer at Miller Electric in Woonsocket. Soon after Mr. Maynard returned home, he met Lucille Prefontaine. They married and brought up their daughters Donna, Linda, Pamela, and Lauren in the Darlington section of Pawtucket.

Mr. Maynard passed away in 1998.

Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed held a special medal ceremony for Sgt. Maynard’s family to celebrate his service and present them with several military honors that Sgt. Maynard earned in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater during World War II and should have obtained for his service.

“Our state and nation are grateful to Henry Ambrose Maynard for his profound commitment to duty and service. It is my honor to recognize Sgt. Maynard and his brothers for their distinguished service during World War II. Like so many of their generation, they put their lives on hold and risked everything in order to stand a post for freedom and save the world from the forces of evil,” said Senator Reed. “We offer our heartfelt thanks to Sgt. Maynard and his fellow servicemembers for the sacrifices they made. Sgt. Maynard did not seek out accolades for his service in the military, but he certainly earned them, and it is never too late to present them, salute his service, and keep his memory alive This is a long overdue tribute to an outstanding hometown hero.”

During today’s special medal ceremony, Senator Reed presented Mr. Maynard’s family with the following military awards in recognition of his exemplary conduct, efficiency, and fidelity while serving in the U.S. Army:

• Good Conduct Medal;

• American Campaign Medal;

• Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal;

• World War II Victory Medal, and;

• Marksman Badge with Carbine Bar.

A Good Conduct Medal is awarded for exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity in active federal military service

“The entire Maynard family, especially Henry’s four daughters, would like to thank Senator Reed and his staff for their timely and thorough assistance in locating and receiving these military honors. This information has brought our dad back to us in a very meaningful way,” said the Maynard Family.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/at-federal-hill-houses-swiss-street-food-pantry-reed-touts-plan-to-reverse-trumps-snap-cuts-and-restore-nutrition-assistance,"At Federal Hill House’s Swiss Street Food Pantry, Reed Touts Plan to Reverse Trump’s SNAP Cuts & Restore Nutrition Assistance",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – As families prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, U.S. Senator Jack Reed is concerned a growing number of Americans may not have enough to eat. The problem is compounded by President Trump slashing the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), America’s most effective anti-hunger program, by roughly 20 percent and adding new red tape to the program that could cause many people who qualify for nutrition assistance to go without.

Today, Reed visited one of Rhode Island’s largest and busiest food pantries – Federal Hill House’s (FHH) Swiss Street Food Pantry – to highlight the urgent need to deliver nutrition assistance and rally support for new legislation to overturn Trump-Republican cuts to SNAP, the biggest cut to the food aid program in American history.

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 – including 144,000 Rhode Islanders.

As President Trump’s economic policies contribute to rising prices, more Rhode Islanders are being squeezed when it comes to essentials such as food, health care, heating, housing, and transportation. That has led to increased demand at food pantries across the state and the nation.

The Congressional Budget Office estimates President Trump’s budget and tax law will eliminate $187 billion in food assistance over the next decade, even as grocery prices rise. Trump’s cuts will cause as many as 88,000 Rhode Islanders to lose some or all of their SNAP benefits, according to an analysis by the Urban Institute. In total, Rhode Island would lose $85.8 million in SNAP funds every year under the new Trump budget law.

The state currently receives roughly $343.5 million annually in SNAP benefits. In Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, SNAP participants in Rhode Island received an average of $198.52 per month in SNAP benefits which nets out as about $6.52 per person per day.

“We are so grateful to food pantries like Federal Hill House. And it’s important to note that community food banks across the country are experiencing the same high prices, federal cuts, and surge of demand that was exacerbated by President Trump needlessly withholding SNAP funds. Our foodbanks and volunteers are doing heroic work, but they can only do so much, and President Trump’s SNAP cuts are dragging the country in the wrong direction. The federal government needs to do more, not less. The Trump Administration is forcing higher costs and a heavier economic burden onto states and vulnerable families, and that is a recipe for increasing poverty,” said Senator Reed. “As more Americans feel the pinch, Congress must act swiftly to restore and strengthen SNAP before Trump-Republicans’ devastating cuts kick in. We must also deliver relief to hard-working families bearing the undue burden of President Trump’s cost-raising tariff taxes and repeated failures to address the skyrocketing costs of health care.”

This week, Senator Reed teamed up with Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and others to introduce the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act of 2025 (S.3281). The bill would reinstate SNAP funding and access, reversing the changes that slashed $187 billion in food benefits from Americans in need.

“FHH’s Swiss Street Food Pantry works daily to feed our neighbors in need, but we are only part of the solution to hunger in our community. We appreciate Senator Reed’s leadership on legislation that restores essential support for individuals and families whose income doesn’t provide enough to put nutritious food on the table. We also applaud his efforts to strengthen local food systems by increasing access to fresh, locally sourced foods from farmers and producers” said Kimberly Fernandez, executive director of Federal Hill House.

Federal Hill House operates one of Rhode Island’s largest and most visited food pantries, serving approximately 3,900 families across nearly 21,000 visits so far this year – an 14 percent increase over the same period last year. The organization distributed 2 million pounds of food to Rhode Islanders in 2024.

Senator Reed is also the author of bipartisan legislation that would increase access to locally-sourced, fresh, healthy, and nutritious food in underserved communities and schools. The Strengthening Local Food Security Act (S.2338) would create a permeant grant program for state and tribal governments to procure local foods from family farmers, fishermen, and food producers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-condemns-ices-aggressive-overreach-in-wrongfully-detaining-ri-judges-intern,Reed Condemns ICE’s Aggressive Overreach in Wrongfully Detaining RI Judge’s Intern,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI -- Yesterday, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents attempted to wrongfully abduct a Rhode Island Superior Court intern and high school student who the agents misidentified. They also apparently broke the rules of the Licht Judicial Complex and reportedly surrounded a judge’s car, demanding everyone exit the vehicle and threatening to smash in windows if the vehicle’s occupants did not comply -- and were confronted by the head of Security Operations for R.I. Superior Court. The ICE agents did not release the intern until Superior Court Judge Joseph McBurney intervened by correctly noting ICE had the wrong person.

Condemning the negligence of these ICE agents and the agency’s troubling pattern of unlawfully detaining U.S. citizens nationwide, U.S. Senator Jack Reed condemned the incident, stating:

“The Trump Administration refuses to accept we’re a nation of laws with a constitution that provide all of us with rights. Trump and his team’s tactics are jeopardizing public trust and public safety. Innocent people are being wrongfully targeted. We should not accept a bunch of masked armed individuals running rampant, ignoring the rules, and threatening innocent students and judges as routine law enforcement. Every day law enforcement across our state don their uniforms and display their badges proudly. The leadership of ICE and any unprofessional field agents must be held accountable for this type of outrageous incident. The pattern of too many ICE agents committing civil rights abuses and disregarding the law is very disturbing. We have to protect everyone’s rights and legal obligations. Failing to speak out against escalating authoritarian immigration enforcement tactics only invites the further use of these tactics against more Americans and the erosion of due process.”

Journalists have uncovered dozens of cases nationwide where U.S citizens, including children, have been unlawfully swept up in ICE raids and held for days or weeks without legal recourse.

Senator Reed is cosponsoring legislation to address a growing concern of Homeland Security-controlled field agents engaging with the public while wearing unmarked tactical gear and concealing clothing that obscures both their agency affiliation and personal identity. Without visible badges, names, or insignia, members of the public often have no way to confirm whether they are interacting with legitimate government or law enforcement officials. Indeed, the FBI put out an official bulletin warning of criminals dressed and acting like immigration enforcement to commit violence and theft.

“The utter lack of transparency set by the Trump administration endangers public safety by causing confusion, fear, and mistrust. It also puts everyone at risk – including the targeted individuals, ICE officers, and bystanders who may misunderstand what is happening and attempt to intervene, as well as local law enforcement who may be called to the scene. This is a real law enforcement worry since even the FBI put out a bulletin on how criminals are now dressing and acting like these immigration patrols,” noted Reed.

Senator Reed is a cosponsor of the VISIBLE Act (S.2212), which would require immigration officers, including DHS personnel (such as CBP/ICE), federal agents, and deputized state or local officers engaged in immigration operations to display clearly visible identification during public-facing enforcement action. Led by Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) the bill would:

Require offices to display clearly legible identification – including their agency name or initials and either their name or badge number;

Prohibit non-medical face coverings (such as ski masks or balaclavas), with some exceptions; and

Require DHS to establish disciplinary procedures for violations.

The Immigration Enforcement Identification Safety (IEIS) Act (S.2594), led by Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) seeks to enhance the safety of the public and law enforcement by specifically requiring any officer or agent conducting immigration enforcement operations, including any Federal or non-federal law enforcement officers, to:

Visibly display their name and unique identifier and the name of their law enforcement organization;

Visibly display their face; and

Provides reimbursement privacy-enhancing services to thwart doxxing attempts.

Both bills make exceptions to ensure the safety of federal agents, including allowances for covert action.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-whitehouse-seek-to-repeal-gops-self-dealing-january-6-related-phone-data-payout,Reed & Whitehouse Seek to Repeal GOP’s Self-Dealing January 6-Related Phone Data Payout,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- After Senate Republican leaders added a secretive, self-dealing provision to the continuing resolution (CR) government funding bill that allows several Republican senators to receive payments of up to $500,000 if their phone records were accessed by January 6 investigators without their knowledge, a group of 33 U.S. Senators is pushing back to repeal the measure and prevent lawmakers from cutting themselves half a million dollar checks using U.S. taxpayers’ money.

The highly controversial provision, inserted at the last minute by Senate Republican leadership, has drawn strong rebukes from Democrats and many Republicans. House Republicans have introduced a standalone bill to repeal this provision, with House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) claiming he was “shocked” and “angry” when he learned about the measure.

Now, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) are teaming up with Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch, and 30 of their Senate colleagues in introducing the Anti-Cash Grab Act (S.3195). This bill would repeal the provision allowing eight Senate Republicans to claim at least $500,000 in taxpayer money over phone record collections that lawfully occurred during the January 6th insurrection investigation process.

The phone records that were seized were legally obtained through a grand jury subpoena and covered the call logs, numbers, times, and durations of several lawmakers, but not the contents of their conversations. They were subject to a lawful non-disclosure order signed by a federal judge, as part of a lawful criminal investigation. Under the provision, the senators could receive ""the greater of statutory damages of $500,000 or the amount of actual damages"" for each violation, plus legal fees. The provision was made retroactive to January 1, 2022.

“While Democrats were fighting to make health care more affordable and help working families put food on the table, Senate Republicans were focused on taxpayer-funded windfalls for themselves. Let’s be crystal clear: negotiating a $500,000 windfall for yourself while refusing to help everyday Americans is wrong and deserves to be called out,” said Senator Heinrich, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch. “Our bill is about accountability, transparency, and fighting for working families. The Senate must take this bill up and pass it now.”

“The Republicans who wrote this bill tried to sneak a $500,000 payout for a select group senators who were caught up in the investigation of the January 6th attack on the Capitol. Nobody wants to admit responsibility for inserting this provision into the bill. And many of potential beneficiaries of the provision have disavowed it and have said they were not aware of its inclusion. Regardless of how it made its way into the government funding bill, it should be repealed. It smacks of corruption and both parties should repudiate it,” said Senator Reed.

“While Democrats are fighting for affordable health care, Republicans are trying to enrich themselves with your tax dollars,” said Senator Whitehouse. “This commonsense legislation stops a scheme where Republicans slyly voted money ($500K each!) for the Trump DOJ to dole out to senators. Grift seems to be the G in MAGA.”

In addition to Heinrich, Reed, and Whitehouse, the Anti-Cash Grab Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators and Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Brain Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-denounces-trumps-threats-to-press-and-excuses-for-the-murder-of-jamal-khashoggi,Reed Denounces Trump’s Threats to Press & Excuses for the Murder of Jamal Khashoggi,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Extending a pattern of calling for broadcasters who criticize him to lose their license, President Donald Trump today called for ABC to have its broadcast license revoked after one of its reporters asked Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman about the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, and later asked President Trump about the Jeffrey Epstein files.

Unconscionably, President Trump sought to brush off Khashoggi’s murder by Saudi agents, which U.S. intelligence says was ordered by the Saudi crown prince, by saying: “You’re mentioning somebody that was extremely controversial. A lot of people didn’t like that gentleman you’re talking about. Whether you like him or didn’t like him, things happen.”

Then, referring to the crown prince, Trump said: “But he knew nothing about it, and we can leave it at that.”

Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) stated:

“Once again, President Trump is dismissing U.S. intelligence and seeking to undermine press freedoms. He wants to silence his critics and evade accountability. His Administration has systematically sought to put down key independent watchdogs and tried to restrict press access.

“There is a clear pattern of President Trump putting his own narrow self-interest above American values. He continues to threaten government retaliation against organizations that disagree with his views or criticizes his irresponsible policies that are creating serious economic hardships for everyday Americans.

“Our democracy requires a free, independent press that has a right and a duty to ask questions, challenge the government’s positions, help root out corruption, and speak truth to power without fear of government interference, revenge, and reprisal.

“President Trump and Defense Secretary Hegseth should remember that in America, unlike Saudi Arabia, the press serves the public -- not the government. Here in the United States, journalists are protected by the law, have the right to free speech, and a duty to truthfully report the facts – even if the President himself disagrees. And we as lawmakers and citizens must stand up for those rights, freedoms, and protections lest they be taken away or eroded by executive overreach.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/ri-delegation-announces-25m-for-new-hybrid-buses-for-ripta,RI Delegation Announces $25M for New Hybrid Buses for RIPTA,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- In an effort to strengthen public transportation, reduce pollution, and lower costs, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo today announced that Rhode Island will soon receive $25 million in Low or No Emission Grant Program funding to support the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority’s (RIPTA) transition to low- or zero-emission buses.

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is awarding Rhode Island the federal funding through the Low or No Emission Grant, which provides federal funding through a competitive process to states and transit agencies to purchase or lease low- or no-emission buses and other transit vehicles that use advanced technologies such as battery electric or fuel-cell power to provide cleaner, more energy efficient transit service in communities across the country.

RIPTA’s new electric bus fleet will provide modern, sustainable, and emissions-free transportation for riders across the state.

The funds are being made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (P.L. 117-58), which Senators Reed and Whitehouse helped pass in 2022.

“This federal funding will help shift RIPTA’s bus fleet to newer, more energy-efficient buses, resulting in reliable rides, cleaner air, and lower costs for taxpayers,” said Senator Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee who has successfully led bipartisan efforts to plus up the Low-No Emissions Bus Grant Program. “I am committed to delivering federal resources to help steer us toward a cleaner energy future with less pollution and more convenient and efficient public transportation options.”

“This federal funding will support RIPTA’s transition to a modernized hybrid fleet,” said Senator Whitehouse, Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “Our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to make smart investments in public transportation that move the Ocean State toward a clean energy future.”

“This federal funding for RIPTA to transition to low- or no-emission fleets means lower costs for travelers, cleaner air, and more energy-efficient systems,” said Rep. Magaziner. “I am proud to assist in this transition and make Rhode Island cleaner, more affordable, and better connected.”

“Investing in energy-efficient buses will help Rhode Island do its part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improve public health, and support our clean energy future,"" said Congressman Amo. ""I'm thrilled this new federal funding will help RIPTA reduce costs and expand its energy-efficient fleet.”

“On behalf of the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to our congressional delegation for their unwavering support and tireless advocacy of public transit,” said RIPTA Chief Executive Officer Christopher Durand. “This vital $25 million federal investment will help fund our vision for a modern, sustainable transit system while improving the passenger experience, supporting cleaner air, and delivering meaningful benefits to communities across Rhode Island.”

With this latest grant, RIPTA has now been awarded over $77 million in federal competitive grants since 2020 to make capital investments in upgrading its clean energy fleet of buses and charging infrastructure.

RIPTA operates a fleet of about 230 fixed-route buses and continues to actively transition its fleet to include more sustainable, zero-emission vehicles.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/senedia-awarded-follow-on-contractfor-workforce-development,Reed Helps SENEDIA Land New Submarine Workforce Development Contract,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"MIDDLETOWN, RI – U.S. Senator Jack Reed today joined with SENEDIA, the Alliance for Defense Tech, Talent, and Innovation, to announce a four-year, $98.3 million contract, if all options are exercised, from the U.S. Department of Defense to continue to advance workforce development in the New England submarine industrial base. This Follow-On Production Agreement (FPA) is a continuation of an August 2020 award and can support the trades and industrial skills training of more than 8,600 candidates through 2029.

Across New England, the defense sector supports more than 407,000 jobs and $40 billion in income.

“This announcement is great news that recognizes the progress we’ve made and further solidifies submarine production as an engine for economic growth in Rhode Island and the region for years to come. I worked with SENEDIA to create and champion this skills-development workforce pipeline from the very beginning to train Rhode Islanders for these critical, good-paying jobs that contribute significantly to our nation’s defense. It has grown across New England because the program works, and the need is that great. This is a smart investment in hardworking people that expands opportunity, creates desirable career paths, and strengthens our economy and the nation’s Maritime Industrial Base,” said U.S. Senator Jack Reed, the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

The 2020 award – which grew from an initial award of $18.6 to $78.4 million total by its completion in October 2025 – facilitated training for over 8,600 new and incumbent workers. It also supported outreach to more than 6,000 people, from grade school students to under and unemployed adults, about the high-skill, high-wage career opportunities in the submarine industrial base.

That work will continue through this FPA, thanks to SENEDIA’s New England Submarine Shipbuilding Partnership. The Partnership directs resources and opportunities towards the economic and workforce development of the region’s maritime industrial base.

“The New England Submarine Shipbuilding Partnership today includes regional suppliers and stakeholders from Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island, allowing SENEDIA to effectively mobilize the supply chain and connect them with the pipeline of skilled workers for today and tomorrow,” said SENEDIA Chief Executive Officer Molly Donohue Magee. “From K-12 education to skilled training to career placement, SENEDIA works across the workforce continuum to reinforce New England’s role as the epicenter of submarine shipbuilding.”

The contract is with the Department of Defense Innovation Capability and Modernization Office, executed through the Cornerstone Other Transaction Authority Agreement, with technical support from the U.S. Navy Maritime Industrial Base program office.

“The New England Submarine Shipbuilding Partnership plays an important role in strengthening the region’s ability to support the Navy’s submarine programs,” said Matt Sermon, Direct Reporting Program Manager for the Maritime Industrial Base Program. “This work helps expand access to training and connect more people to the careers required to build and sustain the undersea fleet our nation depends on.”

In addition to industry suppliers and stakeholders, the Partnership includes a regional training network of 10 partners at community colleges, universities, and training facilities.

“SENEDIA training programs have prepared thousands of employees for rewarding careers in shipbuilding at Electric Boat,” said Mark Rayha, president of General Dynamics Electric Boat. “To provide the U.S. Navy with the Virginia and Columbia-class submarines our nation needs, we must continue to grow and develop our workforce, and our continued partnership with SENEDIA is important to our success in that effort.”

SENEDIA also supports career and technical education programs across Connecticut and Rhode Island, growing the annual pipeline of K-12 candidates from a dozen in 2021 to over 200 in 2025. The retention of these CTE graduates is significantly higher than general new hires. Under the FPA, SENEDIA is expanding this support to Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/us-senate-passes-bill-to-compel-the-release-of-epstein-files,U.S. Senate Passes Bill to Compel the Release of Epstein Files,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Today, after bucking a months-long pressure campaign by President Donald Trump and partisan maneuvering by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) to try and delay the release of the “Epstein files,” the U.S. Senate unanimously approved legislation to direct U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to release all documents related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, his associate and convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell, and any communications regarding those cases. The bill, the Epstein Files Transparency Act, previously passed the U.S House of Representatives by a vote of 427-1. The measure now goes to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law.

Thirty days after the bill becomes law, all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation are to be released by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). DOJ has leeway to withhold or redact personal information about victims, explicit depictions of child abuse, anything jeopardizing a federal investigation, depictions of death or injury, and information properly classified to protect national security. However, within 15 days of the initial release of the files, DOJ must provide Congress a full list of all materials released and withheld, as well as a comprehensive report on any redactions, and a list of all government officials and “politically exposed persons” named in the materials.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), a supporter of releasing the Epstein files, warned that this is not the end of the battle to transparently release the files, stating:

“This was a positive step toward justice. But it’s still an uphill climb to transparently provide the American people with facts, ensure justice for the victims, and hold the perpetrators, accomplices, and enablers accountable.

“The Epstein scandal is about the getting justice and full disclosure for the survivors of Epstein’s child sex trafficking ring. We can’t forget that the center of this story is dozens of women who, as young girls, were horrifically abused. They were taken advantage of by wealthy men who abused their power. And, to make matters worse, Epstein was given a sweetheart deal by a now-disgraced U.S. Attorney who went on to serve in President Trump’s cabinet.

“The American people are not going to tolerate it if the Trump Administration tries to play partisan games to withhold key information and leave Epstein’s victims in the dark once again.

“Americans saw Attorney General Bondi wildly backtrack on her promise of transparency when it comes to the Epstein files. They know President Trump spent months resisting calls to release these documents. They see Ms. Maxwell is being given unexplained preferential treatment in prison and President Trump dangling a pardon for her. They’ve read emails suggesting Donald Trump could have had more detailed knowledge and involvement than previously known. They’ve seen the disturbing birthday card image presented to Mr. Epstein with Trump’s signature – that he claims is not his – and a message that references a “wonderful secret” and their long friendship. Now is the time to unravel the web of secrets related to this case.

“It is no coincidence President Trump recently ordered a fresh Epstein investigation to look into former President Clinton and others. This will undoubtedly be used to claim cover of an ‘active investigation’ as an excuse to withhold evidence. Lawmakers must not allow partisan games to coverup the crimes of rich and influential men or allow them to use their wealth and political influence to avoid accountability.

“I will continue working to ensure the Epstein files are released in their entirety. No one is above the law. Mr. Epstein is dead. Ms. Maxwell was sentenced to twenty years for perpetrating heinous crimes against children. It’s long past time for Americans to know the full truth.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-bill-would-dump-trumps-coffee-tariffs-and-help-lower-prices,Reed Bill Would Dump Trump’s Coffee Tariffs & Help Lower Prices,2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI -- Donald Trump’s reckless tariffs are brewing up economic volatility, uncertainty, and higher prices for American businesses and consumers alike -- making a cup of coffee more expensive than ever. And with Americans drinking about 400 million cups of coffee per day, according to the National Coffee Association, Trump’s tariff price hikes really add up.

“President Trump’s reckless tariffs have driven up the cost of coffee – jolting prices by more than 40 percent over a year ago. For coffee shop owners, roasters, and customers alike, Trump’s coffee price hikes have been a bitter brew to swallow,” said U.S. Senator Jack Reed.

Today, Senator Reed visited Mills Coffee Roasting Company to discuss his latest efforts to help lower coffee prices.

Dating to 1860, Mills Coffee is one of the oldest family-owned roasters in the country.

Senator Reed is backing the No Coffee Tax Act (S.3072). This legislation would repeal Trump’s tariffs on coffee imports from Brazil, Vietnam, India, Mexico, Indonesia, and every foreign country and prevent him from putting new tariffs on coffee in the future. If the bill becomes law, tariff rates on coffee would return to what they were on January 19, the day before President Donald Trump’s inauguration – which was 0 percent.

President Trump imposed 50 percent tariffs on Brazil, a country from which American imports around one-third of its coffee, after the country refused to drop criminal charges against far-right former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who has been convicted of attempting to overthrow Brazil’s government. The next two biggest coffee exporters to the U.S., Vietnam and Colombia, have been hit with 20 percent and 10 percent tariffs, respectively.

Now, the average U.S. price of a pound of ground coffee is $9.14 as of September, the latest data government data currently available -- 41 percent higher than the year before, according to U.S. government data.

Coffee production is not an industry the U.S. can reasonably onshore and the U.S. is the largest importer of coffee in the world. Ninety-nine percent of all coffee consumed in the United States is imported, according to the National Coffee Association, because there are very few places in the U.S. with the climate necessary to grow coffee.

“The U.S. can’t grow our own coffee to meet demand, so President Trump’s reckless coffee tariffs won’t create a single American job or suddenly bring coffee production to the U.S. Instead, President Trump is misusing so-called emergency declarations as an excuse to unfairly tax coffee drinkers and he’s making it harder for small businesses that roast and sell coffee to budget and plan for the future,” said Reed.

“Mills Coffee dates back to 1860, and it has been passed down from generation to generation in my family. We work directly with our growers and take a very hands-on approach to our supply chain because we value quality, community, sustainability, and stability in all that we do,” said Susan Mills, who is the fourth-generation owner and operator of Mills Coffee Roasting Company. “Our customers want stability, but chaotic tariffs have been making it more and more difficult to budget, plan ahead, and give our customers the stability they need. There is no way to plan for rapidly changing tariffs on the inputs we need to run our business. And as a family-owned small business, we are being forced to either take on significant cost increases on our own or pass them down to our customers. Tariffs don’t belong on agricultural products that we cannot grow sufficiently in the United States. I am very grateful for Senator Reed’s leadership on the No Coffee Tax Act and I hope that the tariffs on coffee will swiftly be eliminated.”

NCA’s latest economic report shows that the total economic impact of the coffee industry in the United States in 2022 was $343.2 billion. It found that the coffee industry is responsible for more than 2.2 million U.S. jobs and generates more than $100 billion in wages per year.

While the coffee industry faces several challenges that impact prices – including extreme weather stemming from climate change as well as supply issues – Senator Reed notes that President Trump’s tariff are particularly avoidable, unwarranted, and reversible. Last month, Senator Reed helped pass three resolutions to end blanket tariffs on countries that President Trump installed via executive order.

The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments earlier this month for a case that will decide the fate of many of Trump’s tariffs, with most Supreme Court justices expressing skepticism that the duties were legal.

Reed says there isn’t time to wait and there is bipartisan momentum for the No Coffee Tax Act, which is led by Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Rand Paul (R-KY).

This week, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent finally acknowledged that tariffs do increase prices on American consumers and hinted that the Trump Administration may start reversing some of its price-hiking policies. However, the Trump Administration’s initial plan only eliminates a tiny fraction of the President’s tariffs and offers no real help lowering prices.

Senator Reed stated: “The Trump Administration seems to be finally waking up to the financial damage its policies are causing. But so far, the so-called deals they have announced aren't finalized, don’t provide real relief, and only apply to 7 percent of the coffee that the U.S. imports. So, as I learned from my coffee tour today: we need to keep ‘grinding away’ and ‘keep the heat on’ to ensure the Trump Administration follows through and actually lowers prices -- not just with respect to coffee, but on everyday staples, including health care, housing, energy, and other big-ticket essentials.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-collins-murkowski-and-colleagues-urge-trump-administration-to-swiftly-release-liheap-home-heating-aid,"Reed, Collins, Murkowski & Colleagues Urge Trump Administration to Swiftly Release LIHEAP Home Heating Aid",2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The federal government shutdown is over but as utility rates continue to rise, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) are leading a bipartisan push for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as swiftly and at the highest level possible. Currently, the Trump Administration is sitting on $4 billion in federal LIHEAP dollars that have yet to be distributed this year.

“As Congress works to finalize the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bill for the Department of Health and Human Services, we urge you to immediately release the highest amount of Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding available under the Continuing Resolution,” the 31 U.S. Senators wrote.

The bipartisan group of Senators say the federal LIHEAP funding is a crucial lifeline that keeps vulnerable citizens safe and warm during winter by helping low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes pay their energy bills. The program also helps reduce energy costs through improved energy efficiency initiatives.

Nationwide, an estimated 6 million households received assistance with heating and cooling costs through LIHEAP over the last year.

States and tribes typically receive their LIHEAP allocations from HHS by early November. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources. While eligibility varies by state, most applicants must have a household income below 150 percent of the federal poverty guideline or 60 percent of the state median income.

The Trump Administration has proposed eliminating LIHEAP, including zeroing out funds in its fiscal year 2026 (FY26) budget plan, but Senators Reed, Collins, and Murkowski have led successful bipartisan pushback to save and fund the program. The Senate’s Labor-HHS-Education and Related Agencies Appropriations bill for FY26 would provide a $20 million increase for LIHEAP to $4.045 billion, while the House Appropriations Committee recommended a $10 million increase.

LIHEAP applications are now open for all income-eligible households. Senior citizens and those receiving Social Security Disability or SSI benefits are encouraged to apply as early as possible, but applications will be open to everyone through spring of 2026 — or until the funding is exhausted. To find your state agency, visit the U.S. Department of Energy LIHEAP State Map of Contacts.

In addition to Reed, Collins, and Murkowski, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) Richard Durbin (D-IL) Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

According to a new forecast from the National Energy Assistance Directors Association, home heating costs are estimated to rise nearly 8 percent over last winter on average, with costs for heating with electricity forecasted to increase even higher – to 10 percent above last year.

Full text of the letter follows:

The Honorable Robert Kennedy, Jr.

Secretary of Health and Human Services

200 Independence Avenue SW

Washington, DC 20201

Dear Secretary Kennedy:

As Congress works to finalize the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bill for the Department of Health and Human Services, we urge you to immediately release the highest amount of Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding available under the Continuing Resolution.

As the main federal program that helps low-income households and seniors with their energy bills, LIHEAP provides critical assistance during the cold winter and hot summer months. October marked the start of the heating season for many states, and with temperatures already dropping, low-income families and seniors are feeling additional strains on their household budgets.

As state agencies and tribes activate their LIHEAP programs for the coming winter, it is crucial that they have the resources on hand to help low-income households and seniors as soon as possible. As such, we request that you quickly release LIHEAP funds at the highest level possible, so that low-income households do not have to choose between paying for heat and affording other necessities like food or medicine.

We look forward to working with you on this critical program, and thank you for your attention to our concerns and those of our constituents.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-warren-demand-answers-regarding-suspicious-ouster-of-fhfas-internal-watchdog,Reed & Warren Demand Answers Regarding Suspicious Ouster of FHFA’s Internal Watchdog,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – As the Trump Administration tries to avoid independent oversight and take unjustified steps to possibly cover up misconduct by a senior official at a key housing agency, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), the Ranking Member of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, are demanding to know why the acting inspector general (IG) for the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) was ousted in the midst of an investigation into potentially unlawful administrative actions by President Trump’s FHFA Director Bill Pulte.

The FHFA IG, who serves as an independent, internal watchdog at the agency, was removed at a time FHFA Director Pulte is playing an unprecedented partisan role in using government resources to target President Donald Trump’s perceived political enemies.

Reed and Warren are demanding answers and accountability surrounding the IG’s removal, which occurred in flagrant violation of legal removal procedures.

“Federal law requires that Congress be notified and provided with a justification at least 30 days before an inspector general is removed from office. The Administration did not provide notice or an explanation for Mr. Allen’s firing, but FHFA’s website currently lists the Inspector General position as vacant. According to a November 3rd Reuters news article, Mr. Allen was removed from his position just as he was preparing to notify Congress that FHFA was not cooperating with the Inspector General’s office,” Reed and Warren wrote.

FHFA oversees key elements of the mortgage industry. Senator Reed helped create FHFA, which was established under the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 and oversees and manages two government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs) known as the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac), which guarantee and securitize mortgages to facilitate financing for single-family homes and for apartment buildings.

Given the suspicious circumstances and timing surrounding the IG’s removal, Reed and Warren want to know whether this move could be an attempt to coverup previous misdeeds: “The removal of the Acting Inspector General adds to the cloud of uncertainty hanging over FHFA, which, under Director William J. “Bill” Pulte, has operated in a highly partisan and legally questionable fashion. As we noted in the enclosed letter to the former FHFA Inspector General at the very start of Mr. Pulte’s tenure, Mr. Pulte appears to have violated Federal law by appointing himself Chairman of the Boards of Directors at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and he seems to have run afoul of FHFA regulations by installing business associates and unqualified partisan loyalists to independent positions at both companies. In the time since, Mr. Pulte has used agency resources to partisanly and publicly accuse three public officials of mortgage fraud and to meddle in the affairs of the Federal Reserve, an independent entity over which he has no jurisdiction,” the Senators wrote.

Noting the importance of non-partisan, independent oversight - and echoing recent concerns about IG removals on the Senate floor from Republican Senator Charles Grassley - the Senators expressed concern that inspectors general are being removed from office simply for doing their job and following the facts of a case.

“In its reporting, Reuters also noted that just before his firing Mr. Allen had made efforts to provide information to the office of Lindsey Halligan, the interim U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, who is prosecuting New York Attorney General Letitia James at your direction based on Mr. Pulte’s accusations. According to the article, the information Mr. Allen turned over was “constitutionally required” and “potentially relevant in discovery,”” wrote Reed and Warren. “These reports deserve scrutiny and independent investigation, as does the conduct of Mr. Pulte. To that end, we ask that, not later than November 19, 2025, you provide a full explanation for your removal of Mr. Allen and for recent press reports concerning circumstances surrounding his firing, which we have outlined here.”

Reed and Warren, along with Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), previously asked the FHFA IG’s office to probe the legality of Mr. Pulte’s controversial reshuffling of the boards of directors of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

In an effort to evade independent oversight and accountability, the Trump Administration has fired nearly two dozen IGs across the federal government since the start of President Trump’s second term. There are 74 statutory IG positions in the U.S. federal government. Additionally, President Trump’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has directed a blockade on federal funding to the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE), which supports IGs and helps prevent waste, fraud, and abuse.

Full text of the letter follows:

The Honorable Donald J. Trump

President

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave, N.W.

Washington, D.C. 20500

Dear President Trump:

We write regarding your apparent removal of Mr. John “Joe” Allen from his post as the Acting Inspector General of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA).

Federal law requires that Congress be notified and provided with a justification at least 30 days before an inspector general is removed from office. The Administration did not provide notice or an explanation for Mr. Allen’s firing, but FHFA’s website currently lists the Inspector General position as vacant. According to a November 3rd Reuters news article, Mr. Allen was removed from his position just as he was preparing to notify Congress that FHFA was not cooperating with the Inspector General’s office.

The removal of the Acting Inspector General adds to the cloud of uncertainty hanging over FHFA, which, under Director William J. “Bill” Pulte, has operated in a highly partisan and legally questionable fashion. As we noted in the enclosed letter to the former FHFA Inspector General at the very start of Mr. Pulte’s tenure, Mr. Pulte appears to have violated Federal law by appointing himself Chairman of the Boards of Directors at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and he seems to have run afoul of FHFA regulations by installing business associates and unqualified partisan loyalists to independent positions at both companies. In the time since, Mr. Pulte has used agency resources to partisanly and publicly accuse three public officials of mortgage fraud and to meddle in the affairs of the Federal Reserve, an independent entity over which he has no jurisdiction.

In its reporting, Reuters also noted that just before his firing Mr. Allen had made efforts to provide information to the office of Lindsey Halligan, the interim U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, who is prosecuting New York Attorney General Letitia James at your direction based on Mr. Pulte’s accusations. According to the article, the information Mr. Allen turned over was “constitutionally required” and “potentially relevant in discovery.”

These reports deserve scrutiny and independent investigation, as does the conduct of Mr. Pulte. To that end, we ask that, not later than November 19, 2025, you provide a full explanation for your removal of Mr. Allen and for recent press reports concerning circumstances surrounding his firing, which we have outlined here.

Thank you for your attention to this serious matter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-presents-local-vietnam-veteran-with-combat-action-ribbon,Reed Presents Local Vietnam Veteran with Combat Action Ribbon,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"CRANSTON, RI – U.S. Senator Jack Reed, the ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today hosted a special medal ceremony for local Vietnam veteran and former Warren Fire Chief, Alexander “Al” Galinelli.

Chief Galinelli served four years on active duty in the U.S. Navy from September 1965 to September 1969. He served aboard the USS Waldron (DD-699), a 2200-ton Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer that was commissioned in June 1944 and arrived in Vietnamese waters on July 24, 1967, to provide gunfire support for various operations onshore.

The USS Waldron earned one battle star for service during the Vietnam conflict, signifying meritorious participation in combat or a specific campaign.

Senator Reed today presented Chief Galinelli with the Combat Action Ribbon (CAR) he earned while serving aboard the USS Waldron. The CAR is a military honor that was established by the Department of the Navy during the height of the Vietnam War. It is both the most highly regulated and most retroactively awarded honor in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.

“Chief Al Galinelli is a true patriot that has dedicated his life to service, from standing a post for freedom during Vietnam to saving countless lives here at home in Warren. I am honored to present him with the military honors he earned through his dedicated service to our nation. A grateful nation and a proud state gives our eternal thanks to Chief Galinelli and his family,” said Senator Reed.

“I want to thank Senator Reed and his staff for helping to ensure that the military honors I earned in Vietnam were finally delivered to me today,” said Chief Galinelli. “Service has always been very important to my family, on both my mother’s and father’s sides. I am proud that these awards will forever be a part of my family’s history.”

After his time in the Navy, Chief Galinelli returned home to Rhode Island and worked in maintenance at Brown University before becoming a firefighter at the U.S. Naval Station Newport. After becoming a fire captain, he left to fulfill his lifelong dream of serving as a firefighter in Warren, where he later became chief. Chief Galinelli retired from the Warren Fire Department after a total of 52 years of service, including nearly three decades as Warren’s fire chief.

Chief Galinelli is the father of two daughters, Lisa and Amy, a proud grandfather to three, and a great-grandfather to two. He currently resides in Warren with his partner of many years, Sue Annarummo.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/the-dog-that-hasnt-barked-newly-released-epstein-emails-may-explain-convicted-sex-offender-ghislaine-maxwells-prison-perks,The “dog that hasn’t barked”: Newly Released Epstein Emails May Explain Convicted Sex Offender Ghislaine Maxwell’s Prison Perks,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – On April 2, 2011, long before Donald Trump ran for president, Jeffrey Epstein sent an email to Ghislaine Maxwell that allegedly read: ""I want you to realize that that dog that hasn’t barked is trump.. Virginia [sic] spent hours at my house with him ,, he has never once been mentioned. Police chief. etc. im 75 % there"".

Ms. Maxwell replied several hours later: “I have been thinking about that…”

Fourteen years later, and just a few years into her 20-year sentence for child sex trafficking, Ghislaine Maxwell is now in a cushy federal prison camp, where news reports indicate she has recently been granted a puppy to play with – part of the preferential treatment she is now mysteriously receiving, apparently thanks to the ‘dog that hasn’t barked.’

Epstein and Maxwell were friends of Donald Trump’s in the 1990s and 2000s. Ms. Maxwell is seeking a pardon or commutation from President Trump and he refuses to rule one out for her.

Maxwell was suspiciously transferred from a Federal Correctional Institution in Tallahassee, Florida, to Federal Prison Camp Bryan in Texas in August – just days after extensive meetings with President Trump’s Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who previously represented Trump as his personal lawyer. Ms. Maxwell seemingly has been granted all sorts of unexplained prison perks.

And the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) has yet to explain the highly controversial move, despite U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) requesting detailed answers in an August letter to the head of BOP and a follow-up letter sent late last month.

Senator Reed says the 2011 emails released today by the House Oversight Committee may shed crucial light on the situation. Reed stated:

“The Epstein files should be released because the American people deserve to know the truth and President Trump’s actions surrounding this case simply don’t add up.

“I am still pressing BOP for answers about Ms. Maxwell’s highly unusual prison transfer and preferential treatment. In light of these new emails, it heightens concern about potential witness tampering. There are serious questions about whether President Trump, through his lawyer, and Ms. Maxwell are together concealing damning information.

“If Donald Trump knew his friends were engaged in child sex trafficking and said nothing then he himself is guilty of a heinous crime.

“Speaker Johnson has kept the House of Representatives in recess for the last 54 days. And for seven weeks, he refused to seat a duly elected member of the House in order to block bipartisan legislation to force the release of the Epstein files. Whether the evidence implicates princes or presidents, it’s time that the American people get the facts.”

Jeffrey Epstein died by suicide in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-cr-funding-bill,Reed Statement on CR Funding Bill,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement:

“President Trump has presided over the two longest shutdowns in American history and that is not a coincidence. People are struggling under the financial burden of his irresponsible and chaotic economic policies. President Trump and Congressional Republicans unilaterally cut nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid in the ‘big ugly bill’ -- sending our already fragile health care system into decline.

“Make no mistake, every Democrat voted to prevent this Republican health care disaster and every Republican voted to let it happen.

“In addition, the Trump-Republican refusal to prevent these massive premium price shocks across America is a testament to their utter indifference to the plight of everyday Americans.

“Over the last several weeks, I voted seven times to responsibly reopen the government and lower health care costs. But I can’t support this bill because it fails to deliver actual relief and doesn’t stop the devastating health care price spikes. It is also clear that President Trump will continue to flout the laws passed by this Congress until my Republican colleagues stop supporting him in lockstep.

“People are making decisions today about whether or not they can afford to keep their health insurance. They cannot wait for the Republicans to get serious about a bipartisan solution. They need help now.

“Being healthy should not just be for the wealthy. The fight for health care affordability and access is not a game and it’s not about which party wins or loses – it’s about who actually listens to the American people and puts their well-being first. It’s about doing our jobs and providing real oversight, not just a rubber stamp. Democrats are listening and will continue working to improve people’s lives, help save health care, and lower prices.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-backs-effort-to-reopen-government-with-1-year-aca-fix,Reed Backs Effort to Reopen Government with 1-Year ACA Fix,2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – In yet another effort to urgently end the budget impasse, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is backing a plan that would immediately reopen the government and simultaneously extend the Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits for one year, and create a bipartisan panel to work together on longer-term solutions to reduce health care costs.

“Senate Democrats have offered a simple compromise to quickly pass a government funding bill that includes health care affordability. This is not everything Democrats wanted, but it would immediately reopen the government, help working families, and address rising health care costs while Congress works on a bipartisan, long-term solution. It’s time for Republicans to say ‘yes’ and for President Trump to actually engage and lead his party,” said Senator Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee.

The shutdown began on October 1 and open enrollment for health care started on November 1. Under this proposal, insurers could update their rates after Congress passes a simple extension of the tax credits.

The parameters of this commonsense approach are consistent with what Republicans have requested, and it ensures the American people get the immediate health care help they absolutely need.

As Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) noted on the floor today: “Since what we are proposing is only a simple extension of current law, the Senate could do this within a few hours. This is a reasonable offer that reopens the government, deals with health care affordability, and begins a process for negotiating reforms to the ACA tax credits for the future. Now, the ball is in Republicans’ court. We need Republicans to just say yes.”

The clean, one-year extension of the enhanced ACA tax credits would prevent the doubling of health insurance premiums for more than 24 million Americans.

The U.S. Senate is heading toward a likely weekend session.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-salutes-speaker-nancy-pelosi-for-outstanding-service-to-the-nation,Reed Salutes Speaker Nancy Pelosi for Outstanding Service to the Nation,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, after former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA-12), the first and only woman ever elected to serve as Speaker of the House, announced her decision to serve out her current term and not seek reelection in 2026, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) issued the following statement:

“Speaker Pelosi has had a remarkable, trailblazing career and incredible record of achievement. She remains a formidable force and I know she will continue to tenaciously serve the people of San Francisco until her last day of office.

“Her strong conviction, steely resolve, and principled leadership helped guide passage of the Affordable Care Act, Wall Street reform, the American Rescue Plan, and many more consequential pieces of legislation.

“Undoubtedly there will be many more women who lead the U.S. House of Representatives in the future, but Nancy Pelosi will always be the first Madame Speaker. She broke that barrier and blazed a trail for others to follow. We are grateful for her service. She has helped make America a better place for all.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-rips-trump-for-threatening-to-defy-courts-and-unlawfully-withhold-snap,Reed Rips Trump for Threatening to Defy Courts & Unlawfully Withhold SNAP,2025-11-04,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Despite the fact that the Trump Administration has the money and authority to fully and immediately fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), President Trump appeared today threatened to defy court orders and withhold SNAP Assistance to 42 million low-income Americans until the end of the government shutdown.

SNAP is a nutrition assistance lifeline that helps feed 42 million Americans, including 16 million children, 8 million seniors, 4 million disabled Americans, and many more who struggle to make ends meet -- people who work hard but don’t earn a living wage.

A day after saying his administration would comply with a federal court order and pay out at least half a month of SNAP benefits using contingency funds -- which Treasury Secretary Bessent said could happen as soon as tomorrow -- President Trump today seemed to pull an about face when he posted on social media that SNAP: “will be given only when the Radical Left Democrats open up government, which they can easily do, and not before!”

U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) blasted President Trump for willfully and wildly seeming to threaten SNAP benefits for millions of Americans across the country:

“It sure seems desperate and indecent to willfully withhold food aid from needy kids and seniors on fixed incomes. It would be indefensible for President Trump to try and take food off the plates of vulnerable children and inflict mass-suffering on their families. President Trump is trying to bully Americans. His budget would push millions more into poverty in order to give billionaires a bigger tax benefit. The government is supposed to work for the American people and improve their lives, not deny them services and shrink opportunity. As we approach Thanksgiving, I believe Americans will strongly condemn President Trump for trying to bully kids, the elderly, sick, disabled, and vulnerable. Democrats are fighting to lower prices, save health care, and reopen the federal government. And we will hold President Trump accountable.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/health-care-sticker-shock-aca-open-enrollment-begins-with-huge-spike-in-premiums,Health Care Sticker Shock: ACA Open Enrollment Begins with Huge Spike in Premiums,2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – The Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance marketplace is now open for enrollment for 2026 coverage. Between now and January 31, 2026, Rhode Islanders can shop for health and dental insurance that meets their needs and budgets using the state’s ACA portal: HealthSource RI.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed says many Rhode Islanders are already facing sticker shock due to President Trump’s policies and Congressional Republicans’ refusal to extend ACA tax credits. As a result, millions of families across the country will pay double or triple what they did before — or may lose their coverage altogether.

“President Trump is refusing to even meet and talk about this crisis. Instead, Trump is forcing Americans to pay more for their health care or lose coverage altogether. Rather than invest in innovations that help patients or reducing the costs of prescription drugs, President Trump is cutting health care to pay for tax breaks for billionaires and special interests. He continues to try to tear down the ACA, and still has no plan to replace it – he hasn’t even produced his so-called ‘concepts of a plan.’ His health care policy is a cruel joke that makes it harder to see a doctor, more expensive to get health coverage, and more difficult to keep and renew it. And he’s forcing these health care price increases at the same time his tariffs, Medicaid cuts, and economic policies are causing higher grocery bills, housing, utilities, and other basic expenses,” said Senator Reed.

According to experts at HealthSource RI, many Rhode Islanders could see their average monthly health costs double, depending on their circumstances and level of coverage. HealthSource RI enrollees are projected to pay about $111 more per person per month unless Republicans in Congress join with Democrats to extend enhanced federal tax credits that are expiring at the end of the year.

An estimated 13,000 Rhode Islanders could drop insurance coverage if that happens, according to HealthSource RI estimates.

Nationwide, Republicans’ steep cuts to Medicaid, coupled with the likely expiration of ACA tax credits, could leave roughly 14 million Americans without insurance.

“Every American deserves affordable, quality health coverage,” said Senator Reed. “That is why I am fighting to re-open the government, lower costs, and protect people’s access to health care so it is there when they need it. With open enrollment, people are starting to see the reality of the Trump-Republican plan and experience the resulting price shocks, dropped coverage, and marketplace instability.”

The cost of health insurance for the roughly 165 million Americans under the age of 65 who receive their coverage through work is also rapidly rising and is expected to increase by the biggest annual jump in 15 years.

Over the last twelve years, Rhode Island’s uninsured rate has decreased by more than two-thirds: in 2024 the uninsured rate was 2.2 percent, down from 11 percent in 2012.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-blasts-trump-for-only-partially-funding-snap-despite-having-legal-authority-and-funds-to-fully-fund-program,Reed Rebukes Trump for Only Partially Funding SNAP Despite Having Legal Authority and Funds to Fully Fund Program,2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- After deleting its own authorized contingency plan and refusing to release billions of dollars in emergency funds, the Trump Administration was required to provide a compliance update to a federal court order that issued a temporary restraining order directing the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to issue November benefit payments for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement after the Trump Administration begrudgingly announced it is choosing to only partially fund SNAP:

“It’s outrageous that it took a court order for President Trump to follow the law and fund SNAP. He’s had the money and authority all along. His half-baked approach to only provide partial funding hurts the whole country and underscores Trump’s gross mismanagement. This is about Trump actively denying food assistance to millions of children and vulnerable seniors while he’s simultaneously increasing costs, hurting local economies, and pushing more people into poverty.”

SNAP is a nutrition assistance lifeline that helps feed 16 million children, 8 million seniors, 4 million disabled Americans, and many more who struggle to make ends meet -- people who work hard but don’t earn a living wage.

Trump’s move to delay and deny the federal funding comes after Senate Republican leaders blocked consideration of both the Keep SNAP and WIC Funded Act, introduced by U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and the Keep SNAP Funded Act, introduced by U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO). Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) refused to put Senator Hawley’s bipartisan bill to keep SNAP benefits flowing up for a vote—despite the fact that it has the necessary votes to pass.

It also comes on the heels of President Trump and Congressional Republicans enacting the largest cuts to SNAP in American history this summer—and both President Trump’s budget request and House Republicans’ draft fiscal year 2026 appropriations bill cut WIC benefits for millions of moms and kids.

Those who rely on SNAP to buy groceries for themselves and their families make up about 12 percent of all grocery sales nationwide, according to the National Grocers Association.

Grocery stores typically time larger shipments of goods to the start of the month to coincide with the reloading of EBT cards. Smaller grocers and convenience stores, particularly those located in areas with high concentrations of SNAP recipients, make up a majority of the stores that accept SNAP credits and often have smaller margins to navigate the financial strain on their customer base. A drop in sales could lead to layoffs and increased costs for all consumers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/sasc-leaders-request-defense-department-orders-and-information-on-counternarcotics-operations,SASC Leaders Request Defense Department Orders and Information on Counternarcotics Operations,2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Ranking Member Jack Reed (D-R.I.) released two letters to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth requesting execute orders (EXORDs), legal rationale, and designated terrorist organization lists related to Department of Defense operations against drug trafficking cartels.

The September 23, 2025 letter addresses existing legal requirements under the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2020 and 2025 that mandate congressional oversight of military execute orders. The senators are seeking all EXORDs approved by the Secretary of Defense or combatant commanders that underpin DOD activities to combat drug trafficking cartels.

The October 6, 2025 letter requests any written opinion from the Department of Justice's Office of Legal Counsel regarding the domestic or international legal basis for these operations and strikes, and a complete list of all designated terrorist organizations and drug trafficking organizations with whom the President has determined the United States is in a non-international armed conflict and against whom lethal military force may be used.

To date, these documents have not been submitted. These oversight requests were made pursuant to Section 1067 of the FY2025 NDAA, Section 1744 of the FY2020 NDAA, and Section 1230 of the FY2024 NDAA.

A copy of the September 23rd letter may be viewed here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-whitehouse-demand-trump-reverse-plan-to-open-new-offshore-oil-and-gas-leases,Reed & Whitehouse Demand Trump Reverse Plan to Open New Offshore Oil and Gas Leases,2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – In response to leaked plans that the Trump Administration wants to open up offshore drilling along the East and West coasts, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), the top Democrat on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, today joined over 100 lawmakers in demanding President Trump and U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum immediately cease any plans to open new offshore oil and gas leases in U.S. federal waters off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, in the Arctic Ocean and northern Bering Sea off of Alaska, and in the Eastern Gulf.

The lawmakers warned that opening these untouched coastlines to new offshore drilling would devastate coastal economies, jeopardize our national security, ravage coastal ecosystems, and put millions of Americans’ health and safety at risk, hurting people across the political spectrum.

By reversing long-standing legal protections for vulnerable coastal waters, new offshore leases would cause significant environmental damage to communities already reeling from natural disasters and recent oil spills. Oil spills not only cause irreparable environmental damage, but also suppress the value of coastal homes, harm tourism economies, and weaken coastal infrastructure. Already, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forced to respond to over 150 oil and chemical spills each year. One disastrous spill can cost taxpayers billions in lost revenue, cleanup costs, and ecosystem restoration.

These threats of expanded oil drilling come as the Administration already dismantled NOAA’s oil spill prevention and response programs, as almost 30 percent of the team in charge of addressing oil spills has been laid off or took early retirement. The Emergency Response Division team and the oil spill program would also lose half their funding under the Administration’s proposed FY 2026 budget.

“This is a matter of national consequence for coastal communities across the country, regardless of political affiliation. It puts our economies, national security, and our most vulnerable ecosystems at severe risk,” wrote the lawmakers. “… Expanded oil and gas leasing poses risks to the health and livelihoods of our constituents, jeopardizes our tourism, fishing, and recreation economies, and threatens the marine life that inhabits our coastlines.”

“The United States already leads the world in oil and gas production. The industry currently holds more than 2,000 offshore leases covering over 12 million acres of federal waters — yet fewer than 500 of those leases are actively producing oil and gas,” continued the lawmakers. “There is no justification for opening vast swaths of our oceans to leasing when existing leases remain largely unused, while imposing mounting environmental and economic costs on coastal communities.”

Additionally, the Department of Defense (DOD) previously warned that oil and gas leases in portions of the Eastern Gulf would impact areas critical to our military readiness, including for military training and testing opportunities and assets. DOD has also signaled that parts of the Mid-Atlantic and South Atlantic Planning Areas are “not compatible with oil and gas activities and infrastructure.”

The lawmakers condemned the potential expansion of offshore drilling while the Administration simultaneously curtails offshore wind and clean energy development. This year, the Trump Administration has halted all outer continental offshore wind leasing, rescinded all designated Wind Energy Areas, and eliminated $679 million in offshore-wind-related port infrastructure funding.

Specifically, the lawmakers demanded that President Trump and Secretary Burgum:

• Halt any steps toward new offshore oil and gas leasing in the Atlantic, Pacific, off the coast the Arctic and Bering Sea coasts of Alaska, and the Eastern Gulf;

• Limit offshore drilling, consistent with previous statutory and agency protections;

• Prioritize coastal resilience, including expanded storm-surge and flood protection, restoration of wetlands and sand dunes, and early-warning systems, so that communities in Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, New Jersey, Alaska, and beyond are better protected; and

• Restore a credible pathway for offshore wind and other clean-energy projects by rescinding the OCS wind-leasing withdrawal and rescinded WEAs, enabling science-based projects that support jobs and coastal economies.

“Our coastal communities, fishermen, small business owners, Tribal Nations, tourism operators, and families cannot be sacrificed in the name of short-term drilling booms,” concluded the lawmakers. “Opening new offshore lease areas while cancelling clean energy progress is potentially illegal, a failure of leadership, and a dereliction of the public trust.”

Senator Reed co-leads the COAST Act (S.1486) with U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Senator Whitehouse leads the bipartisan New England Coastal Protection Act (S.1472). Whitehouse has long been the lead sponsor of legislation to permanently ban offshore oil and gas drilling off the coast of New England. While working in the Rhode Island Attorney General’s office, Whitehouse assisted Attorney General James O’Neill with the state’s response to the 1989 World Prodigy oil spill. As U.S. Attorney, Whitehouse led the federal response to the 1996 North Cape oil spill, securing what was then the largest settlement payment in Rhode Island history.

In addition to Reed and Whitehouse, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

In 2018, during President Trump’s first term, his administration proposed opening up vast stretches of the Atlantic Coast to offshore drilling. However, thanks to strong public resistance by residents from coastal towns and inland cities, Trump’s attempt to drill for oil near East Coast beaches was defeated.

The 2010, the Deepwater Horizon oil rig and well were located off the coast of Louisiana when an explosion and blow-out released about 171 million gallons of oil in the Gulf of Mexico. The oil coated more than 1,100 miles of the Gulf Coast from Louisiana to Florida.

Full text of the letter follows:

Dear Mr. President and Secretary Burgum:

We write to express our strongest opposition to any effort to open new offshore oil and gas leasing in federal waters off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, in the Arctic Ocean and northern Bering Sea off of Alaska, and in the Eastern Gulf. This is a matter of national consequence for coastal communities across the country, regardless of political affiliation. It puts our economies, national security, and our most vulnerable ecosystems at severe risk. These reported proposals would reverse long-standing protections that shield sensitive coastal waters from new drilling, including withdrawals under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, statutory moratoria, and agency restrictions.

Expanded oil and gas leasing poses risks to the health and livelihoods of our constituents, jeopardizes our tourism, fishing, and recreation economies, and threatens the marine life that inhabits our coastlines. Many of these communities are already reeling from compounded disasters: hurricanes, sea-level rise, storm surge, and the lingering legacy of oil-spill disasters. Since 1980, hurricanes alone have generated well over $1.5 trillion in damage in the United States. Expanding offshore leasing increases the likelihood that future storms, oil spills, or other disasters will impose even greater burdens on front-line coastal communities.

In addition to storms, the threat of oil spills remains real and costly. For example, the U.S. Coast Guard reported a spill of more than 30,000 gallons of “oily-watery mixture” off Louisiana’s coast earlier this year. Oil spill damage threatens not just the environment, but the value of coastal homes, the health of tourism economies, and the resilience of coastal infrastructure. A single catastrophic spill could cost taxpayers, states, and local communities tens of billions of dollars in cleanup costs, lost revenue, and degraded ecosystems. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) already responds to over 150 oil and chemical spills in U.S. waters every year. Under the administration’s proposed plan, every part of the United States’ coastline would be at risk of disaster.

These risks are magnified by the administration’s dismantling of NOAA and its oil spill prevention and response programs. Nearly 30 percent of NOAA’s Office of Response and Restoration Emergency Response Division staff—the team that addresses oil spills—were already laid off or took early retirement as part of the administration’s ongoing reductions in force. The administration’s proposed fiscal year 2026 budget would cut in half funding for the oil spill program and the Emergency Response Division.

Under the administration’s reported plans, harmful seismic testing could take place across every coast. NOAA Fisheries recently concluded that oil and gas activities like seismic exploration in the Gulf of Mexico could drive the endangered Rice’s whale—of which only a few dozen individuals remain—to extinction. Seismic testing for oil and gas disrupts communication, navigation, and breeding among whales, fish, and other marine species, inflicting irreversible harm on ocean ecosystems.

The administration’s reported plans would also open up oil and gas leasing in areas the Department of Defense (DOD) has previously stated would be problematic for military readiness. Leaked documents report that the administration will conduct leasing in parts of the Eastern Gulf, which includes irreplaceable military training and testing opportunities and assets. The DOD has similarly labeled portions of the Mid-Atlantic and South Atlantic Planning Areas “not compatible with oil and gas activities and infrastructure.”

The United States already leads the world in oil and gas production. The industry currently holds more than 2,000 offshore leases covering over 12 million acres of federal waters —yet fewer than 500 of those leases are actively producing oil and gas. There is no justification for opening vast swaths of our oceans to leasing when existing leases remain largely unused, while imposing mounting environmental and economic costs on coastal communities.

While the administration prepares to expand offshore drilling, it is simultaneously undermining offshore wind and clean energy development, thereby reducing our ability to expand energy supplies and build resilient coastal economies. On January 20, 2025, the President issued a memorandum withdrawing all areas of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) from offshore wind leasing, pending review. On July 30, 2025, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) rescinded all designated Wind Energy Areas (WEAs). The Department of the Interior has issued directives curbing so-called “preferential treatment” for wind and solar, and the U.S. Department of Transportation withdrew $679 million in offshore-wind-related port infrastructure funding. These actions raise electricity costs for families, make our coastlines less safe, and our communities more vulnerable.

We therefore urge your administration to take the following actions to reverse course immediately:

1. Halt any steps toward new offshore oil and gas leasing in the Atlantic, Pacific, off the coast the Arctic and Bering Sea coasts of Alaska, and the Eastern Gulf;

2. Limit offshore drilling, consistent with previous statutory and agency protections;

3. Prioritize coastal resilience, including expanded storm-surge and flood protection, restoration of wetlands and sand dunes, and early-warning systems, so that communities in Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, New Jersey, Alaska, and beyond are better protected; and

4. Restore a credible pathway for offshore wind and other clean-energy projects by rescinding the OCS wind-leasing withdrawal and rescinded WEAs, enabling science-based projects that support jobs and coastal economies.

Protecting our waters from offshore drilling is broadly supported by the American public. Nearly two-thirds of registered voters oppose new offshore drilling, and hundreds of municipalities along the Atlantic, Pacific, the eastern Gulf, and these regions of Alaska have passed formal resolutions against its expansion. These communities have made clear that safeguarding their coastal economies, fisheries, and way of life must take precedence over short-term fossil fuel interests. Our coastal communities, fishermen, small business owners, Tribal Nations, tourism operators, and families cannot be sacrificed in the name of short-term drilling booms. Opening new offshore lease areas while cancelling clean energy progress is potentially illegal, a failure of leadership, and a dereliction of the public trust.

We look forward to your prompt response detailing what specific steps the Administration will take to halt this course of action and recommit to safeguarding our nation’s shores, economy, and shared future.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-trumps-nuclear-saber-rattling-could-upend-decades-of-weapons-cooperation,Reed: Trump’s Nuclear Saber Rattling Could Upend Decades of Weapons Cooperation,2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, President Donald Trump created international confusion with an apparent call for the Pentagon to start testing nuclear explosive weapons, a reversal of decades of U.S. nuclear policy that could have far-reaching consequences.

In response, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:

“Once again, President Trump has it wrong when it comes to nuclear weapons policy. This time, he seems to have ordered the Pentagon to resume nuclear explosive weapons testing. This confusing directive reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of our nuclear enterprise—it is the Department of Energy, not the Department of Defense, that manages our nuclear weapons complex and any testing activities.

“Breaking the explosive testing moratorium that the United States, Russia, and China have maintained since the 1990s would be strategically reckless, inevitably prompting Moscow and Beijing to resume their own testing programs. Further, American explosive testing would provide justification for Pakistan, India, and North Korea to expand their own testing regimes, destabilizing an already fragile global nonproliferation architecture at precisely the moment we can least afford it.

“The United States would gain very little from such testing, and we would sacrifice decades of hard-won progress in preventing nuclear proliferation.""

The last U.S. nuclear explosive weapon test was held in 1992, before President George H.W. Bush implemented a moratorium on such exercises at the conclusion of the Cold War.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/us-senate-rebukes-trump-and-rejects-emergency-global-tariffs,U.S. Senate Rebukes Trump & Rejects ‘Emergency’ Global Tariffs,2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – In a resounding rebuke of President Donald Trump’s costly and reckless economic policies, the U.S. Senate voted on a bipartisan basis, 51-47, to reject Trump’s tariffs on a global scale. U.S. Senator Jack Reed was among the majority of U.S. Senators voting to approve the resolution and block Trump’s tariffs.

Today’s vote marked the fourth time the Senate came together on a bipartisan basis in support of a resolution to terminate Trump’s misuse of emergency powers to enact steep tariffs on American consumers. Under the guise of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977, President Trump declared he would enact a tariff of 10 percent or higher on countries across globe. His executive order sought to proclaim a “national emergency arising from conditions reflected in large and persistent annual U.S. goods trade deficits” as a reason to impose the tariffs on nearly every U.S. trading partner.

“President Trump’s unwarranted tariffs increased prices and punished American consumers and businesses alike. Despite the President’s claims, American companies, small businesses, and consumers – not foreign companies – are paying nearly all of the costs of his tariffs, with Goldman Sachs estimating that foreign companies paid less than 10 percent of tariff costs this summer. Researchers at Yale estimate American families will pay an extra $1,700 this year due to President Trump’s tariffs. This bipartisan rebuke of Trump’s reckless tariffs is a positive step forward for consumers. But the job won’t be done unless Speaker Johnson (R-LA) reconvenes the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington to finish the job,” said Senator Reed. “Historians and economists across the political spectrum agree that IEEPA was never meant to authorize tariffs, and for its nearly fifty years of existence, no president sought to abuse and ignore the law this way until President Trump came along trying to seize new power and authority for himself at the expense of everyday Americans and by upending the constitutional order.

The Senate’s previous three votes were narrowly targeted at specific tariffs on Brazil and Canada, while the latest vote was in support of ending the so-called ‘national emergency’ Trump used to try to justify “reciprocal” tariffs on countries around the world.

Four Republican Senators crossed party lines in voting to disapprove of Trump’s tariffs today: Rand Paul (R-KY), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Susan Collins (R-ME) and Mitch McConnell (R-KY).

Democrats were able to force a vote on the issue by invoking a Senate rule that allows Congress to vote to block a president’s emergency powers.

On November 5, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments regarding President Donald Trump’s power to impose sweeping tariffs on virtually all goods imported into the United States. Senator Reed filed an amicus brief in that case urging the high court to strike down Trump’s ‘emergency’ tariffs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-tillis-make-push-for-corporate-governance-fairness-act,Reed & Tillis Make Push for Corporate Governance Fairness Act,2025-10-29,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- In an effort to protect investors, enhance corporate governance, and hold proxy advisory firms accountable, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) are teaming up on the bipartisan Corporate Governance Fairness Act (S.3055). This bill would help ensure that investors may confidently rely on the advice of proxy advisory firms by requiring the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to regulate all major proxy advisory firms under the Investment Advisers Act (IAA). This advice is critical for investors as they decide how to vote their shares on important corporate governance matters, such as director elections or whether to sell the company.

Proxy advisory firms are an essential tool for investors, and the senators want to ensure they are well-regulated and ensure that the information that they provide to their institutional clients is factual and unbiased.

The Corporate Governance Fairness Act would direct the SEC to conduct periodic examinations, which must include a serious review of the conflicts of interest policies of registered proxy advisory firms and whether firms knowingly made false statements to any of its clients. It also requires the SEC to consult with all relevant stakeholders and report back periodically to the Senate Banking Committee and the House Financial Services Committee with recommendations for any additional investor protections beyond continued access to proxy advisory firms so that investors have the tools to make informed investment decisions and exercise their rights as shareholders.

“Given the importance that investors have placed on continued access to proxy advisory firms, it is critical that proxy advisory firms are appropriately transparent, well-regulated, and held accountable to investors. The bipartisan Corporate Governance Fairness Act would help ensure conflicts of interest are avoided while boosting confidence in our public markets,” said Senator Reed, a leading member of the Banking Committee. “Under our legislation, all major proxy advisory firms would be required to register as investment advisers under the IAA, and therefore have a fiduciary duty to their clients. So as to not discourage new entrants into the proxy advisory business, our bill provides smaller proxy advisory firms the choice to voluntarily register under the IAA, but does not require them to do so. The Congressional intent of this legislation is to preserve the critical role played by proxy advisory firms and to hold them accountable to investors.”

“Investors deserve confidence that the advice they receive from proxy advisory firms is accurate and free from conflicts of interest,” said Senator Tillis. “This bipartisan legislation strengthens oversight and accountability to ensure our markets remain fair, competitive, and trustworthy.”

Under the Reed-Tillis bill, all major proxy advisory firms would be required to register as investment advisers under the Advisers Act. They will owe a fiduciary duty to their clients, and that duty will be enforceable under federal law.

The legislation also directs the SEC to conduct periodic examinations, which must include a serious review of the conflicts of interest policies of registered proxy advisory firms and whether firms knowingly made false statements to any of its clients.

The bill also requires the SEC to consult with all relevant stakeholders and report back periodically to the Senate Banking Committee and the House Financial Services Committee with recommendations for any additional investor protections beyond continued access to proxy advisory firms so that investors have the tools to make informed investment decisions and exercise their rights as shareholders.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-backs-bipartisan-snap-patch-to-prevent-first-ever-snap-lapse-in-history,Reed Backs Bipartisan SNAP Patch to Prevent First Ever SNAP Lapse in History,2025-10-29,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – With billions of federal dollars available to fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the ongoing government shutdown, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) says a failure by the Trump Administration to disburse these funds would be immoral, indefensible, and unlawful.

Senator Reed is calling on Republican leaders to put bipartisan bills on the floor and urging his colleagues to vote their conscience and pass bipartisan legislation to keep SNAP food assistance flowing uninterrupted to 42 million Americans.

Even President Donnald Trump, who is currently on a weeklong overseas trip – and whose chaotic and disjointed Administration has forced the shutdown and caused panic by prematurely ordering the suspension of SNAP benefits on November 1 – now suggests a SNAP reversal by USDA: Speaking aboard Air Force One while in Asia today, President Trump told reporters “we’re going to get it [SNAP funding] done,” but offered no details on how it might happen.

With the President in Asia and offering no concrete plan, and with the Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives still on an indefinite hiatus because House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) refuses to bring lawmakers back to Washington, DC, Senator Reed says urgent action by the Senate is needed to prevent over 40 million Americans from going hungry.

Senator Reed is throwing his support behind two key SNAP funding bills: the Keep SNAP and WIC Funded Act, introduced by U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and the Keep SNAP Funded Act, introduced by U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO).

The Keep SNAP and WIC Funded Act would provide such funds as are necessary to provide uninterrupted benefits for SNAP and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) at times when continuing or full year appropriations have not been enacted for the Department of Agriculture in FY26.

Hawley’s Keep SNAP Funded Act would fund the food aid program for states across the country until the nearly-month-long government shutdown ends and the USDA can receive its allotments through appropriations or stopgap measures.

So far, ten Republican Senators have cosponsored Senator Hawley’s bill, including: James Lankford (R-OK), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Susan Collins (RM-E), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Katie Britt (R-AL), Jon Husted (R-OH) and John Cornyn (R-TX).

Around 42 million Americans – including 140,000 Rhode Islanders -- depend on SNAP benefits for nutrition assistance each month, with funds uploaded onto electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards to be used at local grocery stores. Each month, Rhode Island receives about $29 million to administer the SNAP program across the state.

With USDA announcing a pause in federal funding, states had to scramble. Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee declared a state of emergency over the impending lapse, freeing up his ability to make emergency funds available to those in need -- and Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha joined a federal lawsuit with nearly two dozen states against the Trump Administration over the impending end of federal food assistance.

Senator Reed noted: “As my colleagues in both parties have attested and agree: There is no reason millions of Americans should go hungry. There is a bipartisan solution on the table. It’s not the exact bill I would have written, but time is of the essence and bipartisan action is required. Democrats are willing to do their part. The only question is: Will Senate Republican leaders allow the Senate to work its will and allow a vote using a 60-vote threshold? This is about helping low-income children, seniors on a fixed income, and disabled Americans who depend on SNAP to make ends meet. If given the chance, I believe both parties can come together to help these vulnerable Americans. But the question is: will Congressional Republicans prioritize protecting the American people, or let the American people go hungry? I urge them to do the right thing and tee up a vote ASAP. If they do, we can get this done on a bipartisan basis.”

While a strong majority of Senators support extending SNAP funding, it only takes one senator to object to passing a bill by unanimous consent. And only the Senate Majority Leader can schedule a vote in a timely manner.

The quickest way to get SNAP aid out in November is for the Trump Administration to simply follow the law and tap into the SNAP contingency fund, which has over $5 billion ready to go immediately, and transfer other USDA funds temporarily to ensure SNAP benefits keep flowing during the shutdown.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-warns-trumps-politicization-of-the-military-breaks-250-years-of-tradition,Reed Warns Trump’s Politicization of the Military Breaks 250 Years of Tradition,2025-10-29,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, delivered a floor speech condemning President Trump’s efforts to politicize the U.S. military and turn it into a partisan instrument. Reed warned that Trump’s actions—including holding campaign-style rallies on military bases, firing senior officers for political reasons, and deploying troops into American cities—undermine 250 years of apolitical military tradition and threaten civilian control of the Armed Forces.

Senator Reed called on Congress to take immediate, bipartisan action to safeguard the Constitution’s balance of powers, codify prohibitions on political activity at military installations, and ensure that the U.S. military remains loyal only to the Constitution—not to any individual or party.

A video of Senator Reed’s remarks may be viewed here.

A transcript of Senator Reed’s floor speech follows:

Drawing the Line: Congress Must Protect America’s Apolitical Military

U.S. Senator Jack Reed

Ranking Member, Senate Armed Services Committee

Wednesday, October 29, 2025

REED: Mr. President, I rise today to discuss a matter that transcends party lines and goes to the very heart of what makes America's military the most trusted institution in our country.

I speak from a lifetime of devotion to the Army and our Armed Services. I joined the Army at seventeen when I took the oath to defend and protect the Constitution as a New Cadet at West Point. I served twelve years on Active Duty. I earned my Ranger Tab and my Senior Jump Wings. I had the privilege of commanding an Infantry Company in the 82nd Airborne Division. I taught at West Point. But, I want to make clear that I am not a combat veteran. I have spent nearly three decades on the Senate Armed Services Committee, with the great privilege of serving as both Ranking Member and Chairman.

My connection to the military is neither transient nor incidental. That is precisely why I must speak out today about what President Trump is doing to our Armed Forces. He is attempting to politicize an institution that has remained steadfastly apolitical for nearly 250 years. He is disrespecting the professionalism and sacrifice of our servicemembers. And if we in Congress do not reject his actions —and soon—the damage could take generations to repair.

America’s Apolitical Military Tradition

America's apolitical military was constructed deliberately by leaders who understood that republics die when generals and soldiers become political pawns.

George Washington set the standard. When he resigned his commission in 1783, he established the principle that military leaders serve the nation, not a party or president. He made clear that military leadership is not a pathway to personal political power. Washington could have made himself king. He refused, and in that refusal, created the tradition we inherit today.

The Founders enshrined a non-political military in our Constitution, giving Congress—not the President—the sole power to raise armies, establish laws governing the military, and, importantly, to declare war. The Founders built checks and balances precisely to prevent the situation we now face: a President who views the military as his personal political instrument.

This tradition is maintained in the United States through deliberate policy. The Uniform Code of Military Justice prohibits active-duty personnel from partisan political activities. Military bases do not host campaign rallies. Servicemembers do not appear in uniform at political events.

The Supreme Court itself has affirmed this principle. In Greer v. Spock (1976), the Court upheld military regulations strictly prohibiting partisan political activity on military bases. The Court’s conclusion was unequivocal. The majority opinion explained that the military has a special responsibility to avoid ""both the reality and the appearance of acting as handmaiden for partisan political causes or candidates.""

Justice Powell also warned that, quote, “It is the lesson of ancient and modern history that the major socially destabilizing influence in many European and South American countries has been a highly politicized military. . . . Complete and effective civilian control [of the military] would be compromised by participation of the military in the political process.”

The Supreme Court understood what we must remember: once the military appears political, civilian control itself is compromised. Public confidence evaporates. And history shows us where that leads.

These are not bureaucratic niceties. Once the military becomes politicized, it loses the trust of the American people. A military seen as serving one party cannot claim to serve the nation. For nearly 250 years, this principle has held. The American military has remained the most trusted institution precisely because it has stayed out of politics.

Trump’s Politicization of the Military

President Trump is systematically dismantling this bedrock principle—brazenly, repeatedly, and with apparent pride.

On May 24th, he addressed West Point's graduating class while wearing a red MAGA hat—a political campaign symbol at a military ceremony. This was not an accident. It was a statement. He told our nation’s future Army officers that his election victory gave him the right to, quote, ""do what we wanna do."" He told cadets about to take their oath to the Constitution that winning an election means you can do whatever you want.

In June, at an event at Fort Bragg, President Trump made this politicization even more explicit. Soldiers attending the event were apparently screened for physical appearance and enthusiasm, and were positioned in the bleachers as background props for what Trump boasted was a political rally. The troops were encouraged to boo his opponents, cheer his applause lines, and jeer the press.

Almost as disturbing, President Trump's team brought vendors onto Fort Bragg to sell campaign merchandise to soldiers in uniform. This was an explicit violation of longstanding Army regulations and Department of Defense policies. It exploited soldiers and the prestige of their service for the President's partisan and personal gain.

And again, just last month at Quantico, Trump spoke to a hall of hundreds of generals and admirals to make explicit what had previously been unspoken. He complained about, quote, ""an enemy within,"" and told the assembled officers that dealing with this domestic enemy ""is going to be a major part for some of the people in this room. That's a war, too. It's a war from within.""

Let us be clear about who Trump means when he says ""the enemy within."" He does not mean terrorists or foreign agents. He means his political opponents. He means Americans exercising their Constitutional rights to disagree with him.

Indeed, any doubt about who he considers “the enemy within” was erased when he pardoned more than 1,500 people convicted of attacking Congress and Capitol Police on January 6th, 2021. These are people who attacked the Capitol – at President Trump’s urging – who savagely beat police officers, who forced members of Congress to flee the chamber for their own lives. The vast majority of my colleagues were there that day and know exactly what they saw.

These criminals, who supported President Trump, were rewarded with pardons, while those who he believes are opposed to him are being targeted for retribution.

This is not a theoretical concern. The President went further in his remarks at Quantico, suggesting that he wants to use ""some of these dangerous cities as training grounds for our military."" He proposed to deploy American troops in American cities to train for operations against American citizens—all without the consent of state and local leaders, and in apparent violation of the Posse Comitatus Act. Already, we have seen him order such deployments in Los Angeles, Washington, Chicago, Portland, and elsewhere.

The pattern is unmistakable. Trump is attempting to transform the military from an apolitical institution that serves the Constitution into a political tool that serves him. He stages political rallies on military bases. He sells campaign merchandise to troops in uniform. He fires generals who give him professional military advice he doesn't like. He tells military leaders that their mission includes waging war on his domestic political opponents.

This is not normal. This is not acceptable. And if my Republican colleagues don’t publicly reject this behavior, the President will fundamentally alter the character of American civil-military relations.

Trump’s Disrespect Toward the Military

Beyond politicization, President Trump has shown consistent disrespect for the military's leaders and values.

At his West Point graduation speech, he claimed he defeated ISIS ""in three weeks.” There’s just one problem: it's not true. General Caine himself has refuted the story that President Trump repeatedly tells about that campaign – that he defeated ISIS. In fact, according to the 2025 Intelligence Community Threat Assessment – which was prepared by the Trump Administration itself – ISIS ""remains the world's largest Islamic terrorist organization."" The President stood before America's future military leaders and lied to inflate his ego and his reputation.

Trump also told West Point graduates, quote, ""we do not need an officer corps of yes-men."" Yet, he fired General Kruse, the head of the Defense Intelligence Agency, because the DIA’s expert analysts contradicted Trump's claims about his military strikes on Iran. He has fired General CQ Brown, Admiral Lisa Franchetti, General Timothy Haugh, and many others in a purge of flag officers that appears motivated by race, gender, and political loyalty rather than merit. The message is clear: give the President the advice he wants to hear, or lose your job.

President Trump disrespects not just military leaders, but also military customs and traditions. At the West Point graduation, he left before the diplomas were presented. He declined the opportunity to present the first and last cadets their diplomas—a tradition honored by Presidents before him. He couldn't be bothered to fully participate in a ceremony that meant everything to those young officers and their families.

And earlier this month at Norfolk, at the Navy's 250th anniversary celebration, Trump dispensed with any pretense. He declared, quote, ""Let's face it, this is a rally.” He closed the ceremony by dancing to his campaign song, ""Y.M.C.A."" by the Village People. The Navy's 250th anniversary became about Trump, not about the history of blood and sacrifice of sailors and the service they represent.

To my Republican colleagues who have served in uniform: you understand what service requires. Honesty. Humility. Respect for those who came before you. You know that officers must give their best professional advice, even when it's not what the Commander-in-Chief wants to hear. You know that when officers fear giving honest answers, people die. Missions fail. Wars are lost.

So when the President lies about military operations, he disrespects every soldier who has told the truth about the battlefield. When he fires officers for honest advice, he disrespects every officer who has had the courage to speak truth to power. When he turns military ceremonies into political rallies, he disrespects every servicemember who has kept politics out of their professional life.

You know this. The question is what you will do about it.

Congress Must Act

We are at a crossroads. The damage Trump is inflicting is not theoretical. It is happening now, and if we don’t act, it will accelerate.

America’s civil-military relationship took 250 years to build, but it can be destroyed in a fraction of that time. Once the military is seen as a partisan instrument serving one party, once it is deployed domestically against political opponents, the trust that sustains it will evaporate. And that trust, once lost, can take generations to rebuild.

Consider the dangers if this continues. Will military officers refuse to serve under future administrations, depending on the party in power? Will they resist civilian authority over policy disagreements? Will the military fracture along partisan lines?

Consider what happens if Trump continues to deploy the National Guard against his political opponents. What happens when citizens see soldiers in their streets to suppress Constitutionally permitted dissent? What happens to recruiting when young Americans view the military as a partisan tool? What happens to military cohesion when soldiers treat fellow citizens as enemies?

These are not hypothetical questions. President Trump told our most senior military leaders that fighting the ""enemy within"" is their mission. He suggested using American cities as training grounds. The precedent he sets will outlast his administration and be available to every president after.

Congress has the Constitutional authority and moral obligation to stop this. We are not powerless. We control the purse. We have oversight authority. We can pass legislation. And we must act now.

After nine months of this presidency, it is clear that my Republican colleagues must do more than recognize the problem—they must act. Republicans must work with us to call out the President and take concrete legislative action.

First, we must codify prohibitions on political activities at military installations and block federal funds from supporting such activities. No more campaign rallies on military bases. No more merchandise sales to troops in uniform.

Second, we must pass legislation—already in the Senate NDAA—to require explanations and notifications for senior general and flag officer dismissals. If these decisions are based on merit, the administration should have no problem explaining them publicly.

Third, we must strengthen the Hatch Act as it applies to political leaders interacting with military personnel. The rules that constrain servicemembers from politics must also constrain politicians from exploiting servicemembers for political purposes.

And fourth, we must establish clear standards requiring congressional approval for domestic military deployments except in genuine emergencies. The Founders gave Congress the power over the military for exactly this reason—to prevent any president from deploying troops as a personal force.

I recognize the political pressures that my colleagues on the other side of the aisle face. But we all took the same oath—either in uniform or in elected office—to support and defend the Constitution, not a President or party. The American military is trusted by the American people because it has earned that trust by remaining apolitical, professional, and devoted to defending the Constitution.

Conclusion

Mr. President, I'll close with this. Yesterday in Japan, President Trump boarded an aircraft carrier to address American sailors and Marines. For a full hour, standing before hundreds of young men and women deployed thousands of miles from home, the Commander-in-Chief lectured them on his political grievances. He complained the 2020 election was stolen. He mocked reporters. He whined about the Nobel Peace Prize. He boasted about deploying the National Guard domestically. He invented false stories about President Biden and jeered him. The sailors and Marines, for their part, remained silent and respectful, like the professionals they are.

But the name of that aircraft carrier is worth noting: the USS George Washington.

How fitting that our first president set the standard for the military we inherit today, and how shameful that President Trump so badly fails that standard. Washington recognized that the presidency and the military are grander than any one person—and he recognized the danger of any man who believes otherwise. As he warned in his Farewell Address: ""Guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism.""

In President Trump, I fear that Washington’s warning has come to bear. Simply put, President Trump is politicizing the military for his benefit. He is disrespecting our servicemembers. And he is setting precedents that will haunt us for generations.

Every day that passes, every political rally on a military base, every firing of an officer for honest advice, every statement about deploying troops against domestic opponents—each inflicts damage that becomes harder to repair.

To my Republican colleagues: this is your moment. You can help defend the military you cherish. You can exercise your constitutional authority as the majority power. Or you can stand by and concede to an executive who recognizes no limits. I suspect history will not forgive this body for remaining silent while the President transforms the military into his personal political tool.

The military I served in deserves better. The country we all swore to defend deserves better. And the young men and women taking the oath today deserve the apolitical, professional military our Founders fought and died to establish.

Let us reassert Congress’s power and preserve the military tradition we inherited.

Thank you, Mr. President. I yield the floor.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/bipartisan-us-senators-file-supreme-court-brief-urging-high-court-to-strike-down-trumps-emergency-tariffs,Bipartisan U.S. Senators File Supreme Court Brief Urging High Court to Strike Down Trump’s ‘Emergency’ Tariffs,2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to prevent the abuse and misuse of emergency powers by the president – regardless of party -- U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) joined over 200 members of Congress in filing a brief with the U.S. Supreme Court challenging President Donald Trump’s authority to impose tariffs without permission from Congress.

The brief was filed ahead of a November U.S. Supreme Court hearing on the consolidated case Learning Resources et al. v. Trump and Trump v. V.O.S. Selections et al., which challenges President Donald Trump’s unlawful use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs on imported goods.

The sweeping tariffs imposed by President Trump have increased average tariffs to their highest rate since the Great Depression and would cost households almost $2,400 more a year, according to the Yale Budget Lab.

The brief Senator Reed and his colleagues signed argues that the Constitution grants Congress the sole authority to impose tariffs and regulate commerce with foreign nations, and that Congress did not delegate that power to the President under IEEPA, which was enacted in 1977. It urges the Supreme Court to reaffirm Congress’s constitutional authority over tariff policy and to strike down the President’s misuse of IEEPA.

“IEEPA was never meant to authorize tariffs, and for its nearly fifty years of existence, no president has sought to abuse and ignore the law this way until President Trump came along trying to seize new power and authority for himself at the expense of everyday Americans and by upending the constitutional order,” said Senator Reed. “What President Trump is attempting to do is seize new powers for himself. If the Supreme Court rules in his favor then he and every future president may weaponize tariffs, unilaterally pick winners and losers, and use tariffs to punish opponents or curry favor with certain industries.”

The brief notes that the Trump Administration’s recent tariffs were not imposed through trade statutes in which Congress did delegate tariff authority to the President, such as Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. Rather, President Trump imposed them under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), a law originally intended to restrict financial transactions with hostile foreign actors during national security emergencies. By invoking IEEPA to impose tariffs without Congressional input or a transparent policy process, the Trump Administration is attempting an unlawful executive overreach that harms Americans’ financial interests and undermines Congress’s constitutional authority.

“Presidents have used IEEPA to block financial transactions with hostile actors, freeze assets, and to impose targeted sanctions ... Yet between 1977 and 2024, not once did a President use IEEPA to impose tariffs. The total absence of tariffs for nearly fifty years reinforces the conclusion that the statute does not authorize such measures,” the amicus briefing states.

The Supreme Court filing follows consistent rulings from three key courts: The Federal Circuit; the Court of International Trade; and the District Court for the District of Columbia, which all found the Trump Administration’s misuse of IEEPA to impose tariffs to be unlawful.

Oral arguments in the case are set to begin before the U.S. Supreme Court on November 5.

U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) joined with Reed and 34 other U.S. Senators in signing the brief, which is also backed by 171 members of the U.S. House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-whitehouse-seek-to-boost-social-security-benefits-for-seniors,Reed & Whitehouse Seek to Boost Social Security Benefits for Seniors,2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The Trump Administration announced the latest Social Security Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) this month: a paltry 2.8 percent increase that is unlikely to keep pace with the cost of surging healthcare premiums and other price hikes fueled by President Donald Trump’s irresponsible tariff policies and tax laws that are geared toward billionaires. This amounts to an average of $52 per month per recipient starting in January 2026. But the projected 11.6 percent increase in Medicare Part B premiums next year would wipe out about 40 percent of the COLA increase for retirees.

Over 70 million Americans receive their earned Social Security benefits, and for 40 percent of older Americans, Social Security is their primary source of income.

This week, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) joined U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) in introduced the Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act (S.3059). This legislation seeks to protect and expand Social Security benefits for older adults. As Social Security benefits have failed to accurately account for rising costs and inflation, the Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act makes necessary changes to the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) formula, better supporting older Americans who rely on Social Security benefits.

“This overdue measure makes necessary adjustments to Social Security benefits—more accurately accounting for rising prices and inflation—to better support older Americans,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Our nation’s seniors are struggling to afford basic necessities like food, medication, and clothing, and the overall cost of living index may not reflect their particular needs. This legislation ensures that older Americans have the support they deserve to live with dignity.”

“The Trump Administration is boosting inflation and shortchanging seniors. Rapidly rising costs and health care price spikes mean more Social Security recipients are feeling the pinch. I am concerned the latest COLA is inadequate and seniors on fixed incomes will feel the real value of their Social Security payments decrease. Our seniors deserve a bump in Social Security pay to ensure their purchasing power keeps pace with economic reality,” said Senator Reed. “President Trump must join Democrats in trying to get costs under control. We must protect Social Security, strengthen it, and prevent partisan detractors from further undermining it and trying to reduce benefits or cut the COLA altogether.”

“Rhode Island seniors pay into Social Security over a lifetime of hard work so they can enjoy a dignified retirement,” said Senator Whitehouse, a founding member of the Expand Social Security Caucus. “As the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans drive up costs for Rhode Islanders, our commonsense legislation increases benefits and protects the promise of Social Security for future beneficiaries.”

Whitehouse’s Medicare and Social Security Fair Share Act would protect the solvency of Social Security and Medicare for at least 75 years by requiring the nation’s highest earners to contribute a fairer share of their income into the system. Reed and Whitehouse also cosponsored the Social Security Fairness Act, which was signed into law by President Joe Biden in January. The legislation eliminated two policies that reduced Social Security benefits for public service employees.

The Social Security Administration has paid COLAs since 1975.

The Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act directs the Social Security Administration to adjust benefits based on the Consumer Price Index for Americans aged 62 or older (CPI-E), whereas current benefits are based off the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners (CPI-W). The CPI-E takes into account more of the costs incurred by older Americans, such as medical expenses—making it more a more reflective index to use when calculating benefits.

Forbes.com notes: “While the COLA increase is a welcome boost in a small benefit check, not many people realize — until they receive a Social Security check — that Medicare premiums are deducted from it. According to projections from AARP published August 12, 2025: 'How Social Security COLA May Increase 2026 Benefits’, premiums could rise nearly 12%, from $185 in 2025 to an estimated $206.50 in 2026. For many retirees, this will offset the COLA. A retiree with a $2,000 monthly benefit might see a gross increase of $54, but after Medicare deductions, the net increase could be as little as $32.50.”

The legislation is also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), John Fetterman (D-PA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD).

The Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act is supported by a number of organizations, including: the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), Social Security Works, California Alliance for Retired Americans, Alliance for Retired Americans, Justice in Aging, National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, National Education Association, National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives, New York StateWide Senior Action Council, Strengthen Social Security Coalition, and Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-the-passing-of-ambassador-j-william-middendorf,Reed Statement on the Passing of Ambassador J. William Middendorf,2025-10-25,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – Ambassador J. William “Bill” Middendorf II passed away Friday at the age of 101. A seventy-plus year resident of Little Compton, Middendorf had an extensive career that included serving as an engineering officer and navigator during World War II, an investment banker, as treasurer of the Republican National Committee, and was appointed to ambassadorships in the Netherlands, the Organization of American States, and the European Union. He also served as the 62nd Secretary of the Navy.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed, the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today paid tribute to Ambassador Middendorf, issuing the following statement:

“Bill Middendorf was a true patriot, a strong leader, and an impactful Rhode Islander. We are grateful for his distinguished service as a sailor, statesman, and thoughtful diplomat. His contributions to the state as a businessman, author, artist, and community leader are many.

“As a diplomat and Navy secretary, he understood the importance of international relations, alliances, and the power of American values. I didn’t always see eye to eye with Bill on every issue, but I always respected his scholarly insight and integrity, and appreciated his passion, wit, and self-effacing humor.

“Rhode Island and the nation have lost a faithful public servant and I have lost a friend. We salute both Bill and his late, great wife, Isabelle, for a life well lived and extend our condolences to their beloved children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/latest-data-shows-trump-policies-causing-prices-to-rise-job-market-to-shrink-and-economic-uncertainty-to-spread,"Latest Data Shows Trump Policies Causing Prices to Rise, Job Market to Shrink, & Economic Uncertainty to Spread",2025-10-24,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- President Donald Trump’s weak handling of the economy and costly trade wars are hampering American commerce and forcing consumers to pay more for groceries, medicine, cars, housing, and everyday goods and services. At the same time, Trump is forcing a much heavier economic burden onto working families and states by cutting $1 trillion from Medicaid and causing people to pay double or triple for health insurance. As a result, more Americans are about to be hit with price shocks, inflation is rising, the Trump economy is shedding jobs, and small businesses and big companies alike are paralyzed by needless economic uncertainty.

“People are really struggling. More Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. And Donald Trump’s chaotic and irresponsible economic policies are making things worse. President Trump and Congressional Republicans are raising costs, putting people out of work, and putting Main Street companies out of business because they’re uncertain of what Trump will do to them next. President Trump bragged about giving a big tax cut to billionaires, but he's making everyone else poorer -- taking a bigger bite out of people’s paycheck, making them pay more for essentials, and driving up inflation and the debt alike. The Trump Administration must change course before the president drives America into recession,” said U.S. Senator Jack Reed.

The latest economic data released this week shows annual inflation hitting 3 percent -- a full percentage point higher than the Federal Reserve’s target. And it comes amidst the backdrop of President Trump abruptly terminating trade negotiations with Canada, after the president got upset about a Canadian television advertisement featuring footage of former President Ronald Reagan criticizing tariffs like the dubious ones imposed unilaterally by Trump.

According to a new analysis by Moody’s Analytics chief economist Mark Zandi, 21 states nationwide -- including Rhode Island -- are currently in or at high risk of entering a recession, while another 13 are classified as ‘treading water.’

Trump’s war on renewable energy and eagerness to halt shovel-ready and nearly finished projects that compete with his oil or coal backers is reducing energy supply -- causing America to fall behind on meeting its energy demands while increasing utility bills for homes and businesses alike. All Americans are paying more for Trump's backward energy policies which have caused electricity prices to surge and outpace inflation, increasing 10 percent in the past year.

Businesses are also hiring far fewer workers than in recent years, pushing unemployment higher and forcing millions of Americans into deeper financial pain. Businesses have also been negatively impacted by Trump's immigration policies. Some sectors, like housing, construction, agriculture, tourism, hospitality, and the restaurant industry have been hit particularly hard, and many more have been unable to find enough low-skilled workers. Additionally, Trump took a sledgehammer to the H-1B visa worker program, blocking high-skilled workers from overseas coming to American companies in fields such as sciences, medicine, technology, and biotechnology -- hampering innovation and economic growth and giving foreign competitors a leg up on the competition to win the future.

And while Trump’s unmoored and chaotic policies are making it harder for U.S. businesses to compete, Trump is handing out personal favors to prop up foreign friends, such as the President of Argentina. The Trump Administration provided Argentina President Javier Milei’s government with a $20 billion U.S. taxpayer backed bailout earlier this month, which both Trump and his staff made clear was provided solely to help President Milei in October’s elections. Argentina repaid President Trump’s giveaway by promptly suspending certain export taxes and doubling its soybean sales to China overnight -- undercutting American soybean farmers who have been frozen out by China, normally their largest market, since President Trump’s tariffs took effect earlier this year. Instead of learning its lesson, the Trump Administration is now offering President Milei another sweetheart deal; this time to buy more beef from Argentina at the expense of American ranchers.

“President Trump’s weak ego is damaging Americans in every state -- not for the betterment of the country, quite the opposite: He is being fiscally irresponsible and putting his own personal interests above the nation’s to the detriment of hardworking Americans,” said Reed.

Americans have taken notice: a new Quinnipiac University poll released this week shows just 38 percent of voters approve of Trump’s handling of the economy.

U.S. job growth has slowed from an average of 150,000 per month at the start of 2025 to just 25,000 by August, according to analysis from Elsie Peng, research economist at Goldman Sachs. More recent data from payroll company ADP found the private sector actually lost 32,000 jobs last month. Ms. Peng's report noted that uncertainty created by constant changes in trade policy appear to be dampening investment and holding companies back from hiring.

Senator Reed noted that the United States has many economic advantages, America’s economy can come roaring back, and that the United States must continue to be the world’s most innovative nation. But that requires President Trump to change course, to start prioritizing the middle-class and Main Street, and to start behaving in a more balanced, strategic, and stable manner that puts America’s interests above his own personal whims.

“President Trump’s economic policies are negatively impacting people’s financial health and spiking health care costs at the same time. Hardworking Americans deserve relief. Instead, they are suffering while Trump proposes paying himself a quarter billion dollars courtesy of American taxpayers, sends $20 billion in U.S. tax dollars to Argentina, and builds himself a gilded palace ballroom that would make Marie Antoinette blush. And he is using dark money for the ballroom that he claims is ‘donated’ but refuses to tell anyone where the money is actually coming from, who provided it, and what favors he did in return to those who provided it. The American people want and deserve answers and Republicans in Congress need to stop hiding and join Democrats in providing real oversight,” concluded Reed.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-whitehouse-call-on-trump-admin-to-release-snap-contingency-funds,Reed & Whitehouse Call on Trump Admin. to Release SNAP Contingency Funds,2025-10-24,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Historically, both Democratic and Republican administrations have found ways to sustain the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) program during past budget crises and federal shutdowns by using contingency funds, carry-over appropriations, and short-term adjustments. That was the case in 2013 and 2018-2019. But now, despite the fact that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is legally obligated to release SNAP contingency funds, the Trump Administration is threatening to withhold roughly $6 billion in reserve funding meant to help feed vulnerable Americans and is choosing not to transfer funds from other available USDA reserve accounts.

Stressing the importance of sustained funding for SNAP, which helps feed nearly 42 million Americans nationwide, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) joined 44 of their colleagues in urging the Trump Administration to protect and deliver full SNAP benefits for the coming month. If the Trump Administration refuses to follow the law and take appropriate action, 140,000 Rhode Islanders may not receive SNAP benefits on November 1.

SNAP is administered jointly by states and USDA and receives federal funding through the annual appropriations process. However, the Trump-Republican budget law that was recently enacted cut SNAP by $186 billion over the coming years to fund the GOP’s billionaire tax breaks. Still, SNAP has a contingency fund of about $6 billion that, by law, should be tapped, and USDA has other sources of funding it could use to ensure SNAP benefits are disbursed without interruption.

This week, Reed and Whitehouse joined with U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and forty-three of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins urging the Trump Administration not to delay or deny SNAP funds to states. The senators say USDA should release the billions of dollars currently at USDA’s disposal to ensure SNAP benefits continue uninterrupted in November. The senators warn that inaction by the Trump Administration would be cruel, unnecessary, and could force millions of Americans to go hungry.

The Democrats raised the alarm about the USDA’s failure to use available funding to continue SNAP, writing: “We were deeply disturbed to hear that the USDA has instructed states to stop processing SNAP benefits for November and were surprised by your recent comments that the program will ‘run out of money in two weeks.’ In fact, the USDA has several tools available which would enable SNAP benefits to be paid through or close to the end of November.”

“First, the USDA must, at a minimum under the law, use the contingency funding that is available for SNAP, as noted by USDA officials. Second, the USDA has interchange authority under 7 U.S.C. 2257 that permits the transfer of funds from other USDA nutrition programs. In fact, this authority was recently used by the USDA when it transferred money from child nutrition programs to the WIC account to maintain WIC benefits during the shutdown,” the 46 U.S. Senators continued.

The Senators concluded: “In the event that more resources are needed than what is available in contingency funding, the USDA should explore all legal means to augment funds to pay the full amount of SNAP benefits in November. Americans are already struggling with the rising cost of groceries, and they cannot afford a sudden lapse in grocery assistance. We urge you to immediately communicate to states and committees of jurisdiction the USDA’s plans to disburse the contingency funding to state agencies and utilize all available legal authorities so that American families can get benefits without interruption. Democrats remain at the table and ready to negotiate reopening the government.”

The non-partisan Food Research & Action Center echoed these concerns and called out the Trump Administration, stating: “Allowing hunger to deepen during a shutdown is not an inevitability; it is a policy choice. The Trump Administration has demonstrated urgency in funding other priorities, but not the same commitment to protecting low-income families’ access to food through SNAP.”

According to USDA’s own funding lapse plan, which the Trump Administration removed after September 30 and replaced with a partisan message trying to blame others for the shutdown, SNAP “shall continue operations during a lapse in appropriations, subject to the availability of funding.” Internet archives show USDA’s funding lapse plan, which clearly acknowledges: “Congressional intent is evident that SNAP’s operations should continue since the program has been provided with multi-year contingency funds that can be used for State Administrative Expenses to ensure that the State can also continue operations during a Federal Government shutdown. These multi-year contingency funds are also available to fund participant benefits in the event that a lapse occurs in the middle of the fiscal year.”

Reed and Whitehouse point out that in addition to helping 140,000 Rhode Islanders in need access nutritious food, SNAP supports local farmers and grocers, and strengthens our communities and economy. The state receives about $29 million per month -- nearly $350 million per year -- from the federal government to administer SNAP across Rhode Island.

In Rhode Island, SNAP participants receive an average individual monthly benefit of roughly $200, or about $6.50 per day. Recipients may use their SNAP benefits to purchase fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, bread and other foods at 900 retailers and markets across the state.

SNAP eligibility and benefit amounts are based on income, expenses, resources and the number of people living in a household. Recipients get an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card that can be used at supermarkets, grocery/convenience stores, farmers’ markets and participating online retailers.

Local foodbanks are bracing for increased demand due to the SNAP disruption and Rhode Islanders in need may call United Way of Rhode Island’s (UWRI) 2-1-1 hotline to get connected to help.

In addition to Reed, Whitehouse, and Booker, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), 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), 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), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Edward Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

Full text of the letter follows:

Dear Secretary Rollins,

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is our nation’s largest food assistance program, serving 42 million people, including 16 million children, 8 million seniors, and 4 million people with disabilities. Any halt in SNAP funding will have devastating impacts for program beneficiaries, increasing food insecurity and undermining family budgets. Given the critical importance of SNAP benefits, the USDA must take all steps possible to ensure that families do not go hungry.

We were deeply disturbed to hear that the USDA has instructed states to stop processing SNAP benefits for November and were surprised by your recent comments that the program will “run out of money in two weeks.” In fact, the USDA has several tools available which would enable SNAP benefits to be paid through or close to the end of November. First, the USDA must, at a minimum under the law, use the contingency funding that is available for SNAP, as noted by USDA officials. Second, the USDA has interchange authority under 7 U.S.C. 2257 that permits the transfer of funds from other USDA nutrition programs. In fact, this authority was recently used by the USDA when it transferred money from child nutrition programs to the WIC account to maintain WIC benefits during the shutdown. In the event that more resources are needed than what is available in contingency funding, the USDA should explore all legal means to augment funds to pay the full amount of SNAP benefits in November.

Americans are already struggling with the rising cost of groceries, and they cannot afford a sudden lapse in grocery assistance. We urge you to immediately communicate to states and committees of jurisdiction the USDA’s plans to disburse the contingency funding to state agencies and utilize all available legal authorities so that American families can get benefits without interruption. Democrats remain at the table and ready to negotiate reopening the government.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-whitehouse-announce-recommendation-process-for-us-attorney,Reed & Whitehouse Announce Recommendation Process for U.S. Attorney,2025-10-23,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI -- U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse today outlined their process for ensuring there is a talented and diverse pool of highly-qualified candidates for the current U.S. Attorney vacancy in Rhode Island.

Senators Reed and Whitehouse made this announcement following consultation with the White House and their colleagues on the Senate Judiciary Committee, of which Senator Whitehouse is a senior member.

It is customary for the President to ask U.S. Senators for recommendations for appointments in their state, who are ultimately nominated by the President. It is also customary for home-state senators to return so-called “blue slips” that indicate their approval of the President’s choices for nominees in their state before the Senate begins formal consideration of the nominees.

The U.S. Attorney serves as the state’s top federal prosecutor. There are 93 U.S. Attorneys nationwide, one of whom serves in Rhode Island. Each U.S. attorney is the chief federal law enforcement officer within a specified jurisdiction.

Applicants for U.S. Attorney for the District of Rhode Island must have a minimum of ten years as a practicing attorney, deep experience with criminal law, be residents of the state, and demonstrate a commitment to the fair, evenhanded, and independent administration of justice. The process includes confidential and detailed scrutiny of each applicant’s professional experience and personal background.

All interested applicants should send a cover letter and resume to Senator Reed’s office via email (to:US_Attorney@reed.senate.gov) or via mail (to: 1000 Chapel View Boulevard, Suite 290, Cranston, RI 02920) by November 3.

“Our goal is to fill this position with an outstanding, highly-qualified candidate who will serve the people of Rhode Island with honor, integrity, and distinction,” said Reed and Whitehouse in a joint statement.

After carefully reviewing resumes and interviewing applicants, Senators Reed and Whitehouse will follow their customary process with the Administration.

After a candidate is formally nominated by the President, they may receive a hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Any nominee must then be approved by the Committee, as well as by the full U.S. Senate.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-whitehouse-criticize-trumps-brazen-shakedown-demand-for-doj-to-pay-him-230-million-for-past-cases,Reed & Whitehouse Criticize Trump’s Brazen Shakedown Demand for DOJ to Pay Him $230 Million for Past Cases,2025-10-23,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee that oversees the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), and Sheldon Whitehouse, a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, criticized President Donald Trump for pursuing a $230 million payout from DOJ using American taxpayer money. Trump reportedly wants ‘restitution’ for DOJ’s past investigations into his conduct.

The New York Times reported that President Trump has submitted complaints through an administrative claims process, about criminal investigations into his actions over the past several years for which he feels entitled to compensation.

Some of Trump’s former personal attorneys, who are now heading up the Department of Justice, are in key positions to decide whether or not to grant their former boss and current employer the taxpayer money he wants. However, President Trump claims that he himself would make the final determination of whether he ultimately takes the massive payout from taxpayers, which may not even be publicly disclosed when it’s made.

Senator Reed stated: “This is a sickening brand of cash-grab corruption that should have no place in our democracy. President Trump has zero evidence that these investigations were launched improperly and yet he claims he alone is positioned to decide whether he can just take a quarter of a billion dollars from taxpayers and not even inform the public. No president or any elected official should line their pockets with a corrupt DOJ payout like this.”

Senator Whitehouse stated: “The President has proposed looting $230 million directly from American taxpayers. Presented with this proposed public embezzlement by President Trump, his former defense attorneys who now run the Department of Justice pledged to ‘follow the guidance of career ethics officials,’ curiously omitting that they’ve fired those same career ethics officials. It’s a cesspool of corruption with no equivalence in American history.”

The Senators urged President Trump to drop the unethical claims and said that any DOJ officials involved in the cases should recuse themselves from such a blatant conflict of interest.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-lauds-coast-guard-for-listening-to-public-and-suspending-buoy-removal-plan,Reed Lauds Coast Guard for Listening to Public & Suspending Buoy Removal Plan,2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), a member of the Appropriations Committee, is lauding the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) for listening to the valid concerns of Rhode Islanders and suspending its proposal to remove over 300 buoys and other aids to navigation from Northeast waters.

“After receiving over 3,200 public comments, the Coast Guard will be conducting further analysis of the aids to navigation system. There will be no changes to ATON in relation to the proposal until further analysis is complete,” the Coast Guard announced yesterday in a written statement.

The Coast Guard recently announced a revised modernization plan that scaled back its original controversial plan to phase out hundreds of physical coastal buoys and lateral marks across Coast Guard District North East (formerly First Coast Guard District). In Rhode Island, the Coast Guard was proposing to discontinue 20 buoys, down from 37 earlier this year.

Senator Reed has been actively engaged on this issue. Earlier this year, he led initial efforts urging the Coast Guard to seek input from Rhode Island commercial and recreational boaters and harbormasters before removing any navigational markers in the water and later joined the entire northeast states delegation in a unified effort to push back and reconsider.

“This is a win for our marine interests, including recreational and commercial boats. Rhode Islanders know these waters best and I appreciate the Coast Guard listening to their concerns, “ said Senator Reed. “This means all the buoys Rhode Islanders wanted to keep have been saved for the foreseeable future. I will continue to monitor this situation going forward to keep the public informed and work with the Coast Guard to ensure they continue proactive public outreach as part of any future decision-making process.”

This coastal buoy project is just the first of USGC’s three planned efforts to modernize and reduce Rhode Island’s overall buoy constellation. Two other plans identify shallow water and harbor buoys that the Coast Guard is considering for discontinuation. In total, Rhode Island waters could see roughly 70 federally maintained aids to navigation cut, or roughly 17 percent of the total buoy constellation reduced in the coming years. The Coast Guard’s overall plan can be viewed with this interactive map.

The Coast Guard maintains more than 5,600 aids to navigation in its Northeast district.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/ri-delegation-forgoing-pay-during-trump-shutdown,RI Delegation Forgoing Pay During Trump Shutdown,2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – In a show of solidarity with federal workers impacted by the ‘Trump Shutdown,’ all four members of Rhode Island’s Congressional delegation have requested that their Congressional pay be withheld for the duration of the federal government shutdown as they fight to re-open the government and bring down health care costs for Rhode Islanders.

Emphasizing the need for a bipartisan solution to responsibly reopen the government and save Americans’ health care, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo have all publicly announced they will decline their paychecks until the federal government is reopened and public servants are paid.

President Trump and Congressional Republicans initiated the federal shutdown on October 1 and continue refusing to negotiate with Senate Democrats over a plan to responsibly fund the government and save health care for millions of Americans. Throughout the federal shutdown, all four Congressional offices have remained fully open. The U.S. Senate has remained in session and continues to vote while House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has kept the House in an extended recess.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-whitehouse-action-to-lower-health-costs-cannot-wait,Reed & Whitehouse: Action to Lower Health Costs Cannot Wait,2025-10-20,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"CRANSTON, RI – President Trump promised to lower costs on day one. Instead, two hundred and seventy-three days later, President Trump’s polices have increased prices and American workers are facing soaring health costs and record paycheck deductions. Democratic lawmakers are taking a stand to help lower costs and save health care.

With the start of open enrollment just eleven days away, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse are pressing Congressional Republicans to join them in taking urgent action to prevent devastating premium increases starting in January. In some cases, Rhode Islanders could be looking at paying double, triple or even quadruple what they paid last year for the same level of health insurance.

These steep price hikes stem directly from three key Trump-Republican health care cuts and policies:

One: The expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits. Republican refusal to extend the discounts will spike average annual household insurance costs by 101%, or $1,332 a year, for 40,000 Rhode Islanders, cutting off nearly $60 million in federal subsidies for Rhode Island.

Two: Increasing costs for Medicare and Medicaid, and President Trump’s historic $1 trillion cut to health care under his 'One Big Ugly' budget.

Three: The impact of Trump’s tariffs on pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and other everyday goods that are squeezing consumers and Main Street businesses alike.

As a result of Trump-Republican health cuts and inaction, an estimated 13,000 Rhode Islanders will be unable to afford coverage or opt to go uninsured — the latter mostly younger, healthier people willing to take the financial risk. That increases the concentration of older, sicker, and more medically expensive people left for insurers to cover -- increasing costs for everyone with health insurance, regardless of where they get it.

Senator Reed stated: “I am committed to driving down costs and ensuring every Rhode Islander can purchase affordable, comprehensive coverage that meets their needs. This can't wait. Republicans must join us in taking swift, comprehensive action because this goes to the heart of health and financial stability for millions of Americans. If these price hikes go forward unchecked, it will decimate families, hurt communities, and require even more expensive solutions. Republicans manufactured this crisis and now they want to shift a greater burden onto consumers and states, dismantle the ACA, and kick the can further down the road to try and avoid blame. People’s lives are at stake and there is urgent, pressing need for action. This isn’t a question of belt-tightening: You can’t just turn down your premium and deductible costs like a thermostat or skip a month of health care and still get coverage. President Trump is the main driver of these price spikes and he needs to change course and help us lower costs instead of raising tariffs and handing out bigger tax breaks to billionaires.”

“Tens of thousands of Rhode Islanders will see their health care premiums skyrocket if Congress doesn’t work in a bipartisan way to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits,” said Senator Whitehouse. “Without action, premiums will double – that’s not going to work for families, and it’s going to further strain our health care system. I won’t stop fighting for Rhode Islanders to have access to affordable health care.”

Today, Reed and Whitehouse joined HealthSource RI Director Lindsay Lang and Peter Marino, the President and CEO Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island, to discuss the looming price hikes facing Rhode Islanders and the urgent need for action.

“It is urgent that Congress act now to ensure access to coverage for thousands of Rhode Islanders and millions of Americans who rely on the enhanced tax credits to afford their monthly premiums,” said Lindsay Lang, director of HealthSource RI. “Protecting Rhode Islanders’ ability to seek the mental and physical health care services they need to lead healthy, productive lives is core to HSRI’s mission and to the good of our state. We worry about our neighbors becoming uninsured and facing insurmountable medical costs or suffering serious health consequences from avoiding or delaying care. It is vital that we continue to offer the resources needed to keep people connected to quality coverage.”

“Enhanced premium tax credits have been a lifeline for tens of thousands of Rhode Islanders,” said Peter Marino, President and CEO of Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island (Neighborhood). “Without them, individuals and families will face difficult financial decisions impacting their health and wellbeing. Neighborhood urges Congress to protect these vital subsidies and continue supporting the people who rely on them.”

According to examples and data provided by HealthSource RI, Rhode Island’s insurance marketplace established under the ACA, a 60-year old retiree with an annual income of just over $62,000 and in reasonably good health could see their monthly health insurance bills climb from $427 per month to $1,077 per month -- that is an extra $650 per month just to keep the same level of health insurance they already have. That adds up to a yearly increase of $7,800 for one person.

The prospect of more people becoming uninsured in a few months or losing affordable health insurance altogether means fewer people accessing preventative care, which makes communities less healthy and increases costs in the long run.

Reed and Whitehouse say the need for Republicans to take action is urgent: The enhanced tax credits expire at the end of the year. Open enrollment, the two-month period where people have the opportunity to purchase a health insurance plan that fits their budget and needs, begins on November 1. Public health experts have already warned that the higher cost of insurance plans may drive consumers away from the marketplace and cause them to abandon health insurance altogether, even if the subsidy is later renewed by Congress before the end of the year.

Currently in Rhode Island, marketplace enrollees receive $472 monthly, on average, in the form of preferred federal tax credits, according to KFF [kff.org].",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/durbin-and-reed-lead-call-for-dod-inspector-general-inquiry-into-domestic-deployment-of-military-in-us-cities,Durbin & Reed Lead Call For DOD Inspector General Inquiry into Domestic Deployment of Military in U.S. Cities,2025-10-17,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee; along with U.S. Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY); U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-DE), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense; and combat Veteran U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and 22 Senators in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Defense Acting Inspector General (DOD IG) Steven Stebbins to call for an inquiry into the recent domestic deployments of active-duty and National Guard troops to Chicago; Los Angeles; Washington, D.C.; Portland; and Memphis. In the letter, the Senators underscore the illegality of the domestic troop deployments, which undermines military readiness and politicizes the nation’s military.

“We write to express our concern about the deployment of U.S. troops to American cities, including in Los Angeles; Washington, DC; Portland; Chicago; and Memphis. The military’s expanded use to support immigration operations and domestic law enforcement activities at home is fundamentally un-Constitutional, dangerous for American civil rights, and risks straining military readiness and resources, weakening troop morale, undermining recruitment and retention, and eroding public trust in the military,” the 27 Senators began the letter. “Neither the active-duty military nor the National Guard are intended or trained at scale for the purposes that the Administration has claimed they are used for, including ‘crime-fighting.’ We are concerned that these domestic deployments erode the military’s and National Guard’s ability to prepare for their critical missions.”

“We urgently request that you initiate an inquiry into the cumulative effects of these domestic deployments of U.S. active-duty troops and the National Guard—over the objections of state and local officials—on military readiness, resources, personnel, and our military as an institution,” the Senators wrote.

The Senators made clear that pulling National Guard troops away from their assigned duties to assist in law enforcement operations erodes public trust; diverts critical resources from communities in need, including those impacted by natural disasters; and costs American taxpayers millions of dollars. As the Senators note, the Pentagon has estimated the deployment of National Guard troops and Marines to Los Angeles costs approximately $170 million for a 60-day deployment.

“When military and Guard units are pulled away from scheduled training or mission preparation, the consequences extend beyond individual units and erode operational strength across the force, leaving the military less prepared for overseas operations and crisis response. The Guard’s unique role as both a state and federal force makes it particularly vulnerable to strain, which could impact the ability of the Guard to protect and save local communities during natural disasters at home,” the Senators wrote. “Service members commit to service with the understanding that their sacrifices will aid communities in times of disaster and defend our nation overseas. They are not trained nor prepared to act as a domestic police force.”

“The domestic deployment of military personnel also is a significant waste of resources… The Washington, DC, National Guard deployment is estimated to cost $2.5 million per day. Many of the Guard units deployed to Washington, DC, to ‘help restore law and order’ are now tasked with ‘beautification projects’ such as picking up trash and spreading mulch… Diverting military personnel and defense funds to such missions is inconsistent with the Constitution, congressional intent and responsible stewardship of resources entrusted to the Department of Defense,” the Senators wrote.

The Senators then laid out the illegality of using the nation’s military as civilian law enforcement under the Posse Comitatus Act.

“These domestic deployments also risk normalizing military involvement in contentious civilian law enforcement, which apart from being deeply contrary to the Constitution, raises serious concerns about the apolitical character of our armed forces and compliance with the Posse Comitatus Act. The Posse Comitatus Act reflects the founding principle—reflected in the Third, Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments—that separating civilian law enforcement from the military protects both individual liberties and states’ rights,” the Senators continued their letter.

“Several federal courts have found no credible evidence that the Administration’s use of the military in this way is justified, finding that conditions on the ground have not reached the high threshold of crisis that merits such a militarized response, especially over the objection of local officials. Further, the Trump Administration’s unprecedented deployment of out-of-state Guard personnel into a non-consenting jurisdiction is a significant overreach of executive power,” the Senators wrote.

The Senators concluded their letter by reiterating their call for an inquiry into the domestic deployments of troops to American cities.

“These deployments place a burden on the military and create national security risks when defense funding and personnel are diverted from their core purpose. We urge your office to examine the matter of these military deployments to Los Angeles; Washington, DC; Portland; Chicago; and Memphis as well as the potential for further deployments to additional American cities, and report your findings to Congress no later than November 21, 2025,” the Senators concluded their letter.

In addition to Durbin, Reed, Schumer, Coons, and Duckworth, the letter is also signed by U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Patty Murray (D-WA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Alex Padilla (D-CA). Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Angela D. Alsobrooks (D-MD), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tina Smith (D-MN), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Edward Markey (D-MA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT).

A copy of the letter is available here and below:

October 17, 2025

Dear Acting Inspector General Stebbins,

We write to express our concern about the deployment of U.S. troops to American cities, including in Los Angeles; Washington, DC; Portland; Chicago; and Memphis. The military’s expanded use to support immigration operations and domestic law enforcement activities at home is fundamentally un-Constitutional, dangerous for American civil rights, and risks straining military readiness and resources, weakening troop morale, undermining recruitment and retention, and eroding public trust in the military. Neither the active-duty military nor the National Guard are intended or trained at scale for the purposes that the Administration has claimed they are used for, including “crime-fighting.” We are concerned that these domestic deployments erode the military’s and National Guard’s ability to prepare for their critical missions. We urgently request that you initiate an inquiry into the cumulative effects of these domestic deployments of U.S. active-duty troops and the National Guard—over the objections of state and local officials—on military readiness, resources, personnel, and our military as an institution.

Readiness is the cornerstone of our national defense, yet repeated politicized domestic deployments place that readiness at risk. When military and Guard units are pulled away from scheduled training or mission preparation, the consequences extend beyond individual units and erode operational strength across the force, leaving the military less prepared for overseas operations and crisis response. The Guard’s unique role as both a state and federal force makes it particularly vulnerable to strain, which could impact the ability of the Guard to protect and save local communities during natural disasters at home.

Service members commit to service with the understanding that their sacrifices will aid communities in times of disaster and defend our nation overseas. They are not trained nor prepared to act as a domestic police force. Assignments in support of politically charged law enforcement operations in Los Angeles; Portland; Washington, DC; Memphis; or Chicago erode trust in leadership and accelerate burnout. Military personnel who feel their service has strayed from its intended purpose may question their continued commitment, compounding the Army and the Guard’s already significant retention challenges. At the same time, successfully recruiting new personnel depends on a clear, apolitical mission that honors the history of the active-duty force and the Guard. Associating military service with domestic law enforcement duties—fundamentally contrary to our Constitution—may deter recruits and shrink the pipeline of talent needed to sustain force levels essential to our national security. We cannot afford to drive out servicemembers by normalizing putting them in highly political and fraught conditions, including by forcing troops to confront fellow Americans as opposed to prepare for war, and forcing military officers to navigate unprecedented legal territory and worry about whether they are upholding their oath.

The domestic deployment of military personnel also is a significant waste of resources. The Pentagon initially estimated the deployment of National Guard troops and Marines to Los Angeles to be approximately $170 million for a 60-day deployment. The Washington, DC, National Guard deployment is estimated to cost $2.5 million per day. Many of the Guard units deployed to Washington, DC, to “help restore law and order” are now tasked with “beautification projects” such as picking up trash and spreading mulch. These assignments are a misuse of military personnel and resources, trivialize the professionalism of our service members, and damage morale. Diverting military personnel and defense funds to such missions is inconsistent with the Constitution, congressional intent and responsible stewardship of resources entrusted to the Department of Defense (Department).

These domestic deployments also risk normalizing military involvement in contentious civilian law enforcement, which apart from being deeply contrary to the Constitution, raises serious concerns about the apolitical character of our armed forces and compliance with the Posse Comitatus Act. The Posse Comitatus Act reflects the founding principle—reflected in the Third, Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments—that separating civilian law enforcement from the military protects both individual liberties and states’ rights. Several federal courts have found no credible evidence that the Administration’s use of the military in this way is justified, finding that conditions on the ground have not reached the high threshold of crisis that merits such a militarized response, especially over the objection of local officials. Further, the Trump Administration’s unprecedented deployment of out-of-state Guard personnel into a non-consenting jurisdiction is a significant overreach of executive power.

As such, we request that your office conduct an inquiry into these recent domestic deployments of active-duty and National Guard troops to Los Angeles; Washington, DC; Portland; Chicago; and Memphis. As part of that inquiry, we ask that you provide us with responses to the following:

What assessment, if any, did the Department complete to examine whether the domestic deployment of active-duty or National Guard personnel to American cities fully complies with all applicable statutes, including but not limited to 18 U.S.C. § 1385, 10 U.S.C. § 12406, and 32 U.S.C. § 502, and Department directives, instructions, manuals, and other policy guidance?

Is the Department adhering to its own directives, instructions, manuals, and other policy guidance regarding the permissible scope of support under the applicable statutes?

Have the interpretations of applicable statutes been applied consistently and in accordance with established legal standards, or have there been deviations from standard practice in these deployments?

What assessments, if any, did the Department complete to examine the impact to readiness, resources, personnel, and the Armed Forces as an institution, of the deployment of military personnel to American cities for domestic law enforcement activities?

How does the Department plan to evaluate the cumulative effects of these prolonged or indefinite domestic deployments on the Guard?

To what extent have these deployments disrupted military training schedules, delayed certification or qualification milestones, or otherwise degraded overall readiness for federal missions or overseas operations?

How have DoD funds, personnel, and facilities allocated for military readiness and training been redirected to support these domestic deployments of the military for law enforcement activities?

What specific fund or funds are paying for the deployments of each active-duty or federalized National Guard unit?

What impact has their diversion had on the Department’s ability to fulfil its core defense responsibilities?

Please provide a full accounting of DoD equipment and facilities within the United States that has been redirected for support to federal law enforcement since January 20, 2025.

How have readiness rates of each category of such redirected DoD equipment (e.g., airlift, surveillance equipment) been affected by these diversions?

How many DoD facilities or installations have been directed to support federal law enforcement and what impact has their diversion had on the installations’ or facilities’ ability to fulfil their core missions?

To what extent have military installations or facilities been used to support the training, staging, or housing of active-duty or National Guard personnel during these deployments, and what impact have these uses had on the day-to-day operations, training schedules, and readiness of those installations?

Prior to deployment, what form of legal instruction or training does the Department provide military and Guard personnel regarding the lawful scope of their mission and limitations on their authority while deployed domestically? At what level within the Department are any such decisions about instruction or training made?

Does any such training or instruction include rules for the use of force, training in de-escalation, training in crowd or protest management, or training in community engagement? Please provide any written materials or documents used to convey this information.

Does any such training include instruction on the limitations imposed by the Posse Comitatus Act? Please provide any written materials or documents used to convey this information.

How is the Department ensuring service members operating in U.S. cities are not placed in direct law enforcement roles in violation of law and the Posse Comitatus Act?

What benchmarks have been established to determine when the deployments will conclude?

Who within the Department is responsible for assessing whether those conditions have been met and authorizing the termination or extension of the mission?

What steps, if any, has the Department taken since these deployments began to clarify or strengthen policies preventing military personnel from being used in a civilian law enforcement capacity in American cities?

What assessment or review, if any, has the Department completed regarding the legal liability for the Department of deploying military personnel into American cities, including over the objections of state and local leaders, and in instances of out-of-state Guard personnel deployed to a non-consenting jurisdiction?

What assessment or review, if any, has the Department completed regarding the potential legal liability for service members who may be placed at risk of violating 18 U.S.C. § 1385?

These deployments place a burden on the military and create national security risks when defense funding and personnel are diverted from their core purpose. We urge your office to examine the matter of these military deployments to Los Angeles; Washington, DC; Portland; Chicago; and Memphis as well as the potential for further deployments to additional American cities, and report your findings to Congress no later than November 21, 2025.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/during-manufacturing-month-reed-seeks-to-help-ri-businesses-grow-innovate-and-succeed,"During Manufacturing Month, Reed Seeks to Help RI Businesses Grow, Innovate, & Succeed",2025-10-17,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"EAST PROVIDENCE, RI – Highlighting Rhode Island’s vital manufacturing sector, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today convened a roundtable discussion with a host of local businesses that produce Rhode Island-made products to unpack the challenges they face and opportunities ahead for growth and success.

Senator Reed’s annual Manufacturing Month forum included small business leaders, industry experts, and manufacturing assistance organizations. Reed partnered with Polaris MEP and the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association to bring together leaders in Ocean State manufacturing across a number of industries to discuss the challenges they currently face, including President Trump’s tariff taxes, as well as resources and support available to help them grow, thrive, and succeed.

Among the top concerns shared by local business owners was the negative impacts that President Trump’s widespread tariffs are having on their ability to plan for the future and chart a course for success. A recent survey conducted by Polaris MEP, Rhode Island Commerce, and the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association found that over 80 percent of respondents reported that President Trump’s tariff taxes were having a negative impact on their business. The business leaders also discussed the opportunities presented by Rhode Island’s leading role in the Blue Economy and how small businesses and local manufacturers can benefit from the industry’s growth.

“Rhode Island’s small businesses and manufacturers help fuel our economy. Our manufacturers innovate, create jobs and opportunities, and produce a range of well-made products. The success of manufacturing in Rhode Island is critical to the success of our economy. That’s why I will continue working to support our small businesses, boost workforce development initiatives, and strengthen Rhode Island’s manufacturing ecosystem,” said Senator Reed.

Rhode Island is home to over 1,600 manufacturing companies that employ approximately 8.5 percent of the Ocean State’s total workforce. Rhode Island’s manufacturers have a multiplying effect across the state’s economy, with every $1 in pay for manufacturing workers resulting in an income increase of 90 cents for other workers in the state.

According to Rhode Island Commerce, the total economic output from the state’s manufacturers was $5.28 billion in 2021.

Senator Reed says that strengthening and expanding efforts on the federal level to support Rhode Island’s manufacturers will help to increase wages, bolster the state’s economy, and better position the state to be a leader in numerous industries.

This year’s roundtable included business owners and representatives from Deep Blue Composites, a Bristol-based advanced material integration and precision manufacturer; igus, Inc., a global plastics and high-performance polymer manufacturer with North American headquarters in Rumford; Yushin America, Inc., a Cranston-based robotics company; Mearthane Products Corporations, a Cranston-based manufacturer of high-performance polyurethane components; AmeriSewn, a Pawtucket-based high quality custom sewing company for military, industrial, health care, and consumer markets; and Murdock Webbing, a Central Falls-based small family business that manufactures woven products for a wide range of industries.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-southcom-commander-admiral-holsey-resignation,Reed Statement on SOUTHCOM Commander Admiral Holsey Resignation,2025-10-16,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Today, after Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced the resignation of Admiral Alvin Holsey, the Commander of U.S. SOUTHCOM, less than one year into his three-year post, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:

“Admiral Holsey has served our nation with distinction for nearly four decades, and I thank him for his dedication. The American people are safer and our country is stronger because of his service.

“However, this unexpected resignation is troubling. At a moment when U.S. forces are building up across the Caribbean and tensions with Venezuela are at a boiling point, the departure of our top military commander in the region sends an alarming signal of instability within the chain of command.

“Any operation to intervene militarily in Venezuela – especially without congressional authorization – would be unwise and dangerous. Admiral Holsey’s resignation only deepens my concern that this administration is ignoring the hard-earned lessons of previous U.S. military campaigns and the advice of our most experienced warfighters.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/blumenthal-and-reed-lead-senators-in-calling-out-noems-blatant-violation-of-hatch-act-with-partisan-airport-video,Blumenthal & Reed Lead Senators in Calling Out Noem’s Blatant Violation of Hatch Act With Partisan Airport Video,2025-10-15,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Jack Reed (D-RI) today called out Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem for potentially violating federal law by asking airports to play blatantly partisan videos at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints regarding shutdown staffing and delays. In a letter to Noem, the Senators demanded that DHS immediately remove the videos and provide information about the resources that were used to create and disseminate them.

“Federal law clearly prohibits using federal funding for partisan political activities as a violation of Section 715 of P.L. 118-47, and the requirement that airports play these videos is also likely a violation of the Hatch Act and the Anti-Lobbying Act. At a time when federal employees, including TSA agents, are being asked to work without pay, this outwardly political act was not just a violation of law but an insult to the thousands of TSA employees serving in your department,” the 17 Senators wrote.

The Senators continued, “This video is just the latest in a series of violations of Sec. 715 by the Trump Administration. As we reminded OMB Director Russ Vought in an October 7, 2025 letter, ‘Spirited public debate has its place, but agency resources, including websites or emails, should not be used to send overtly political, and in this case, misleading messages, to the American people.’”

U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Tina Smith (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Patty Murray (D-WA), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) joined Blumenthal and Reed in sending today’s letter to Noem. The full text of the letter follows:

Dear Secretary Noem,

On October 9, 2025, airports across the country were asked to play blatantly partisan videos at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints regarding shutdown staffing and delays at your direction. Federal law clearly prohibits using federal funding for partisan political activities as a violation of Section 715 of P.L. 118-47, and the requirement that airports play these videos is also likely a violation of the Hatch Act and the Anti-Lobbying Act.[1] At a time when federal employees, including TSA agents, are being asked to work without pay this outwardly political act was not just a violation of law but an insult to the thousands of TSA employees serving in your department. We write to demand that you immediately remove these videos and provide information about the resources that were used to create and disseminate them.

According to reports, you have directed airports around the country to play a “public service video” from the Department of Homeland Security that accuses Democrats in Congress of not funding the government.[2] This appears to be a flagrant violation of Sec. 715, which states, “No part of any funds appropriated in this or any other act shall be used by an agency of the executive to branch … for the preparation, distribution or use of any … film presentation designed to support or defeat legislation pending before the Congress, except in presentation to the Congress itself.”[3] The video is also wrong: we have voted seven times in the last two months to provide funding for the government and lower health care costs for Americans around the country, but the Republican-controlled Senate has repeatedly rejected the measure.

This video is just the latest in a series of violations of Sec. 715 by the Trump Administration. As we reminded OMB Director Russ Vought in an October 7, 2025 letter, “Spirited public debate has its place, but agency resources, including websites or emails, should not be used to send overtly political, and in this case, misleading messages, to the American people.”[4]

You must immediately remove these videos from all TSA checkpoints and cease illegally using federal funds for partisan political messaging. Additionally, we request the following information to help us examine the extent to which your actions violated federal law and misused federal funds:

1. Provide a complete breakdown of the cost of creating and disseminating the video, including:

a. The cost of production, editing, filming, and circulation;

b. What funding sources were used to cover the costs;

c. Who approved their use; and

d. When the use of these funds was approved.

2. Who in the Trump Administration was consulted on the decision to create the video?

3. Were outside consultants or other individuals not employed by the Department of Homeland Security involved in the decision to create the video or the production and/or dissemination of the video? If so, please list those individuals and organizations, and how much they were paid for their work.

We will be monitoring your compliance with federal law.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-condemns-hegseth-effort-to-censor-pentagon-press-corps,Reed Condemns Hegseth Effort to Censor Pentagon Press Corps,2025-10-14,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has issued an unprecedented and unsound requirement that Pentagon reporters sign a form acknowledging a policy forbidding them from gathering or publishing unapproved information—including unclassified material—under threat of losing their press credentials.

In response, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:

“The American people pay for our defense in both blood and treasure, and they deserve journalists who can ask tough questions of our military leaders without fear or favor. A free and fair press is essential to our nation, but Secretary Hegseth is attempting to shut down independent reporting with these coercive restrictions.

“This ongoing effort to censor the Pentagon press corps is affront to the U.S. military’s proud tradition of accountability and to the freedoms guaranteed by the First Amendment.

“Our troops serve at great personal risk, and the free press has a fundamental role in ensuring that our civilian and uniformed leaders wield their authority responsibly. With an annual defense budget approaching $1 trillion, the American people have every right to know how their money is being spent.

“It speaks volumes that so many respected outlets have refused to sign this misguided order. Mr. Hegseth and his team have missed the mark legally and morally, and they should immediately abandon this policy and restore the Pentagon’s longstanding commitment to independent press access.

“The Secretary of Defense should lead by example with seriousness and integrity, not secrecy and suspicion.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-trump-is-more-focused-on-bailing-out-argentina-than-working-to-help-americans,Reed: “Trump is more focused on bailing out Argentina than working to help Americans”,2025-10-14,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement on President Trump’s White House meeting with Argentina’s President Javier Milei to highlight a $20 billion U.S. taxpayer-funded bailout for the controversial Argentinian politician who is in a tight re-election race back home in Argentina:

“President Trump is more focused on bailing out Argentina than working to help Americans.

“Instead of doing the hard work of negotiating with Democrats to lower costs for Americans and prevent them from losing their health care, Donald Trump is taking $20 billion worth of taxpayer dollars to prop up a whacky right-wing Argentinian politician whose highly indebted foreign government has already taken dozens of bailouts from international banks. Argentina has defaulted on its debt three times just in the past 20 years, while President Milei’s political party has been plagued by corruption scandals. So this could end up being a costly, ill-advised handout from President Trump to President Milei.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/more-republicans-recognize-need-to-extend-aca-tax-credits-avoid-premium-hikes-and-end-trump-shutdown,"More Republicans Recognize Need to Extend ACA Tax Credits, Avoid Premium Hikes & End Trump Shutdown",2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Today, U.S. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) became the latest Congressional Republican to signal that Republicans should join Democrats to help save health care for millions of Americans.

In a lengthy social media post, Rep. Greene stated that she is “absolutely disgusted” that health insurance premiums could double if the Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits expire, even as she stressed her opposition to the Obama-era legislation, and to the concept of health insurance in general.

Noting that the enhanced premium health care tax credits have been a lifeline for millions of Americans and are set to expire at the end of the year, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is urging Congress to act swiftly to prevent skyrocketing premiums, massive health coverage losses, and the potential closure of hundreds of hospitals, nursing homes, and community health centers nationwide.

Reed stated: “President Trump controls the White House, the Senate, and the House. He ordered Congressional Republicans not to negotiate with Democrats in order to shut down the federal government so he could try to fire more federal workers and implement his reckless partisan agenda in the shadows. He mistakenly insists he can ignore Democrats, the states they represent, and the lawmaking process while driving the country down a dead-end road that ends with more uninsured Americans in every state and double the uninsured rate in some states. Instead of reflexively shutting down dialogue, debate, and allowing the Senate to work its will, I hope the president will heed his own advice: “You have to get everyone in a room. You have to be a leader.” Democrats are pursuing bipartisan solutions and trying to save people's health care in red and blue states alike, even as President Trump seeks to target blue states for revenge. Democrats want to lower costs and help people while the Trump agenda increases costs and takes away people's health care.”

Open enrollment in ACA marketplaces starts on November 1. Millions of Americans could soon see their health care premiums double due to inaction by President Trump and Congressional Republicans. After first cutting nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid and imposing tariffs that increase health costs, the Trump Administration is now blocking the extension of essential tax credits that enable millions of Americans to afford health care.

While Senate Democrats continue to advocate for bipartisan solutions, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has sent the U.S. House of Representative on another extended recess. Adjourning the House ensures the federal government remains shut and it prevents a bipartisan vote that would force the Trump Administration to start releasing the Epstein files.

“Government shutdowns, regardless of length, create hardship. Denying people health care creates hardship too. I have now voted five times to keep the government open and preserve healthcare for millions; something that every Republican opposed. It’s time for the President and his party to accept the reality that the American people want affordable health care. He needs to get to work and negotiate,” said Reed. “I will continue working to strengthen our nation, ensure affordable access to health care, lower costs, put guardrails on federal spending, and stand up for all Rhode Islanders.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-second-anniversary-of-hamas-terror-attacks-on-israel,Reed Statement on Second Anniversary of Hamas Terror Attacks on Israel,2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Today, two years after Hamas carried out a terror attack on Israel that killed more than 1,200 people and led to more than 250 people taken hostage, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:

“Today marks two years since the horrific terror attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, when Hamas brutally murdered and kidnapped innocent men, women, and children. I remember the victims, stand with the survivors, and reaffirm our unwavering support for Israel’s right to exist in peace and security.

“We must also confront the immense suffering that this conflict has brought to the people of Gaza – families who deserve safety, dignity, and hope for a better future. I urge both Israel and Hamas to accept the terms of the current proposal to bring an end to this devastating war.

“Peace will not come easily, but it must come. A lasting ceasefire, the release of all hostages, a surge in humanitarian assistance, and a credible path toward Palestinian-led security and governance are the only way forward. The people of Israel and Gaza alike deserve a future defined by peace.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/us-senators-call-for-removal-of-political-propaganda-from-federal-agency-web-sites-and-communication-channels,U.S. Senators Call for Removal of Political Propaganda from Federal Agency Web Sites & Communication Channels,2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – As the Trump Administration blatantly tries to weaponize federal funding and misuse official government communications channels for partisan propaganda purposes, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) led 22 Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russ Vought demanding the Trump Administration immediately remove unprecedented partisan political messages from official government websites and other official communication accounts that violates federal law.

While President Trump has the same free speech rights as every other citizen and may use the ‘bully pulpit’ of the presidency to express his political views, the rules and regulations of federal agencies and federal law itself clearly restricts the political activities of civil servants using official government resources. Federal agencies have an obligation to operate and serve the American people without regard to politics. Indeed, during the first Trump Administration, the government shut down twice for a length of 3 and 35 days respectively, and agency websites followed past precedent in notifying Americans about the shutdown.

As early as September 30, 2025, in the lead up to the ongoing government shutdown, federal agencies began a seemingly coordinated effort to blast partisan political messages from official government websites, accounts, and email correspondence. For example, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) official website is currently dominated by a misleading red banner that reads: “The Radical Left in Congress shut down the government,” while some furloughed employees in the U.S. Department of Education report that their non-partisan out-of-office messages have been modified without their consent to try and make it seem like they blame Senate Democrats for voting against Republican funding proposals.

In their letter to OMB, the Senators call for the immediate removal of the illegal, partisan messages to comply with the law. The Senators are also seeking to hold accountable those within the Trump Administration who have directed the behavior.

“These activities are in blatant violation of Section 715 of P.L. 118-47, which prohibits federal funds from being used for propaganda purposes ‘designed to support or defeat legislation pending before the Congress,’” the Senators wrote. “These activities also appear to violate the Anti-Lobbying Act and the Hatch Act. We urge you to immediately remove these illegal, partisan messages to comply with the law and hold accountable those who have directed this behavior.”

The letter notes a pattern of abuse and politicization of executive branch agencies that includes official sites for HUD, the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Department of Agriculture (USDA). Additionally, civil servants at the SBA, Department of Labor, Department of Education, and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) were also reportedly instructed by Trump Administration officials to improperly set automatic reply email messages containing partisan political propaganda.

Blasting the administration’s blatant attempts to mislead the American public and misuse American tax dollars, the Senators also pointed out: “As you well know, these messages are misleading, given that Democrats have voted four times over the last week to fully fund the government only to be rebuffed by our Republican colleagues.”

The Senators continued: “Spirited public debate has its place, but agency resources, including websites or emails, should not be used to send overtly political, and in this case, misleading messages, to the American people.”

In addition to Senators Reed and Merkley, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Mark Warner (D-VA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Gary Peters (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Peter Welch (D-VT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Angus King (I-ME), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN).

Violating the Hatch Act can be cause for removal from federal service, and other penalties may include grade reduction, ban from government employment for up to five years, suspension, reprimand, or a civil penalty up to $1,000. Violating the Anti-Lobbying Act can result in civil penalties of $10,000 to $100,000 per occurrence.

The full text of the letter follows:

The Honorable Russ Vought

Director

The Office of Management and Budget

725 17th Street, NW

Washington, DC 20503

RE: Executive Branch violations of Section 715 of P.L. 118-47

Director Vought,

As Congress continues to work on funding the federal government for Fiscal Year 2026, the White House and political appointees assigned to agencies within the executive branch have been engaged in a widespread campaign of partisan political activities. These activities are in blatant violation of Section 715 of P.L. 118-47, which prohibits federal funds from being used for propaganda purposes “designed to support or defeat legislation pending before the Congress.”[1] These activities also appear to violate the Anti-Lobbying Act[2] and the Hatch Act.[3] We urge you to immediately remove these illegal, partisan messages to comply with the law and hold accountable those who have directed this behavior.

As early as September 30, 2025, federal agencies began publicly posting various notices and other media from official accounts, on official websites, and in official email correspondence that violate Sec. 715’s prohibition on propaganda.

For example, beginning on September 30, 2025, the official website for the Department of Housing and Urban Development displayed a blatantly partisan political banner on their website claiming that the “Radical Left are going to ... inflict massive pain on the American people...[4]” On October 1, 2025, similar partisan political messages appeared on the websites for the Small Business Administration, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Agriculture, among others.

In addition to website updates, federal employees - including of the Small Business Administration, Department of Labor, Department of Education, and Department of Veterans Affairs - were reportedly directed to set automatic reply email messages containing partisan political propaganda which asserts that “Democrat Senators are blocking passage of H.R. 5371 in the Senate which has led to a lapse in appropriations.[5]” As you well know, these messages are misleading, given that Democrats have voted four times over the last week to fully fund the government only to be rebuffed by our Republican colleagues. But more important, they are clear violations of Section 715, which prohibits the use of federal funds by an agency to publicly support or oppose legislation pending before Congress.

Spirited public debate has its place, but agency resources, including websites or emails, should not be used to send overtly political, and in this case, misleading messages, to the American people.

Congress has enacted longstanding laws to ensure that partisan political activities and propaganda do not impede the government’s ability to serve all Americans. However, given the blatant, systematic, and repeated violations of Sec. 715 of P.L. 118-47, and likely the Anti-Lobbying and Hatch Acts, over the last week, you must immediately remove these partisan messages from all executive branch agency communications and websites.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-rebukes-trump-administrations-escalating-attacks-on-rule-of-law-for-endangering-judges-and-undermining-judicial-independence,Reed Rebukes Trump Administration’s Escalating Attacks on Rule of Law for Endangering Judges & Undermining Judicial Independence,2025-10-06,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Senior members of the Trump Administration are escalating verbal attacks on judges and the federal judiciary. White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, who previously proclaimed Americans “are living under a judicial tyranny,” recently declared that a Trump-appointed judge is guilty of ‘legal insurrection’ for issuing a temporary restraining order against Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon.

Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) warned that there must be bipartisan condemnation of such irresponsible rhetorical attacks on judges.

Reed stated:

“Mr. Miller’s rising hostility toward federal judges is beyond the pale and should be troubling to all. The Trump Administration’s pattern of intimidation toward those who show any legal restraint against executive overreach endangers individuals and the rule of law itself. Our system of government depends on checks and balances and there must be a bipartisan commitment to the rule of law and the safety of judges.”

Over the years, President Donald Trump himself has engaged in a troubling pattern of rhetorical attacks on judges and the courts for rulings he disagrees with.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-trump-declaring-armed-conflict-in-the-caribbean,Reed Statement on Trump Declaring Armed Conflict in the Caribbean,2025-10-03,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Trump ordered the U.S. military to conduct a lethal strike on a boat in the Caribbean for the fourth time in a month, bringing the total number of individuals killed to 21. This follows his unilateral declaration that the United States is in an “armed conflict” with unnamed “non-state armed groups” in Central and South America, and his deployment of thousands of U.S. forces, ships, and aircraft to fight them – without Congressional authorization.

In response, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:

“Every American should be alarmed that the President believes he can wage secret wars against anyone he chooses. Congress alone has the constitutional power to decide when America goes to war. The President cannot launch military campaigns and invent legal cover after the fact.

“Let’s be clear: Drug cartels are reprehensible and have caused immense suffering in our communities. U.S. law enforcement must be fully equipped and resourced to dismantle them.

“But the Trump Administration has offered no credible legal justification, evidence, or intelligence for these Caribbean strikes. By the President’s own words, the U.S. military is in armed conflict with undefined enemies he labels ‘unlawful combatants,’ while deploying thousands of troops and ships, all without informing Congress or the public.

“President Trump’s declaration of ‘armed conflict’ is a dangerous overreach of executive power. If one man alone decides when and where America fights, we abandon the checks and balances that safeguard our democracy.

“For decades, Republicans and Democrats alike have rightly criticized presidents for engaging in armed conflicts without Congressional approval. The Administration must immediately testify before Congress and the American people about this reckless campaign.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-another-dismal-jobs-report-reinforces-that-trumps-economic-policies-arent-working,Reed: Another Dismal Jobs Report Reinforces That Trump’s Economic Policies Aren’t Working,2025-10-01,2025,2025-10,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- The U.S. economy lost 32,000 private-sector jobs in September according to the latest ADP jobs report, a stark contrast to the expected gain of around 50,000-plus jobs that analysts were expecting. Additionally, the August ADP jobs number was revised down sharply, and now shows negative 3,000 compared to the initial report of positive 54,000.

The weak private sector jobs number comes as President Trump may conduct yet another a mass-firing of federal employees under the cover of a government shutdown and as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) postpones releasing economic data that was set to go out Friday.

Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed stated:

“It’s time for President Trump to drop his tariffs. His weak and reckless policies are killing job growth, increasing prices, and taking a bigger bite out of people’s pay checks. Instead of cutting families’ health care coverage, canceling infrastructure projects, and firing tens of thousands more federal employees, he should focus on strengthening America’s economy, support smart policies that help create jobs, and end his failed tariff tax war.

BLS was scheduled to release its jobs report on Friday. However, due to the federal shutdown, BLS is expected to delay its release.

“President Trump forced this government shutdown because he wants to cut health care, and I think he is happy to delay another poor jobs report. Instead of shutting the government down and increasing costs on consumers, President Trump should work with Democrats on bipartisan solutions to protect people’s health care and get our economy growing again. Trump’s policies are hurting American workers and businesses alike. Prices are rising, jobs growth has stalled, uncertainty is everywhere, and Trump is pushing America toward stagflation,” said Reed.

The last time the U.S. experienced prolonged stagflation was in the 1970s, when elevated oil prices and Presidential pressure on the Federal Reserve to artificially inflate the economy caused inflation to rise, while unemployment rose as consumers cut back on spending.

In September, BLS reported that U.S. businesses added just 22,000 jobs in August, the fourth disappointing monthly report in a row. Previous job numbers were revised down to show that the U.S. actually lost 13,000 jobs in June — the first time that had happened since December 2020, when President Trump was in his first term.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/klobuchar-reed-and-colleagues-call-for-halt-of-argentina-bailout-that-will-harm-american-farmers,"Klobuchar, Reed & Colleagues Call for Halt of Argentina Bailout That Will Harm American Farmers",2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed is teaming up with U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and a dozen of their colleagues in calling on President Trump to immediately halt his plan to send a $20 billion bailout to Argentina, which recently suspended soybean export taxes, undercutting American farmers in the international market.

“We write with deep concern regarding your plan to send a $20 billion bailout, funded by American taxpayers, to Argentina just days after the country took steps to undermine American farmers,” wrote the Senators. “Last week, Argentina announced its plan to suspend export taxes on soybeans, effectively sidelining American soybean farmers in the international market.”

“Despite Argentina’s decision, you are still reportedly moving forward with the bailout for the country,” the Senators continued. “American soybean farmers – who are already reeling from your sweeping tariffs – deserve better.”

Along with Klobuchar and Reed, signers of the letter included U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD).

Full text of the letter follows:

Dear President Trump:

We write with deep concern regarding your plan to send a $20 billion bailout, funded by American taxpayers, to Argentina just days after the country took steps to undermine American farmers. Last week, Argentina announced its plan to suspend export taxes on soybeans, effectively sidelining American soybean farmers in the international market. Despite Argentina’s decision, you are still reportedly moving forward with the bailout for the country. American soybean farmers – who are already reeling from your sweeping tariffs – deserve better.

American farmers are confronting unprecedented challenges under your sweeping and uncertain trade policies. Across-the-board tariffs are increasing the cost of critical inputs farmers need to produce a crop, like fertilizer and equipment, at the same time retaliatory tariffs are making U.S. agricultural products less competitive and putting key export markets at risk. Nearly 20 percent of U.S. farm production is typically sold to customers abroad. With those markets in jeopardy, farmers and businesses across the agricultural supply chain are now facing falling commodity prices and shrinking profit margins, while farm debt, bankruptcy rates, and distressed operations are rising across the country. Soybean producers have been particularly affected, as China – historically our largest agricultural export market – has purchased no U.S. soybeans since May and bought 51 percent less through July compared to the same period last year.

Despite the crisis facing our farmers, your attention appears to be elsewhere: last Monday, September 22, your Administration announced it “stands ready to do what is needed” to bail out Argentina amidst the country’s economic turmoil. Argentina’s President, Javier Milei, is notably one of your close personal friends and ideological allies and faces a crucial midterm election on October 26.

Immediately following your Administration’s announcement regarding potential U.S. financial support for Argentina, Argentina suspended export taxes on soybeans, corn, wheat, and other agricultural commodities. Argentina’s policy change had immediate consequences for American farmers. Argentine agricultural products are now significantly more competitive on global markets, and Chinese buyers have reportedly purchased up to 40 cargoes of soybeans from Argentina in just one week. Now, even after Argentina suspended its export duties, your Administration is moving full steam ahead with its plans to offer financial assistance to the tune of $20 billion – rewarding a country that has implemented policies that directly disadvantage American farmers in favor of our competitors.

It is unclear why you are choosing to use taxpayer dollars to bolster the reelection campaign of a foreign president while they take steps to undermine U.S. farmers. As the American Soybean Association put it last week: “U.S. soybean prices are falling; harvest is underway; and farmers read headlines not about securing a trade agreement with China, but that the U.S. government is extending $20 billion in economic support to Argentina.”

Rather than reversing course on tariffs or abandoning your plans to bail out Argentina, you are reportedly planning to provide American farmers with an aid package, nominally paid for with tariff revenues. Farmers want fair trade and steady markets, not tariff uncertainty and short-term aid payments. The best way to support American producers would be to end your chaotic tariff policies that are hamstringing farmers in the first place. Meanwhile, your Administration has failed to reach any trade deal with China that would restore market access for U.S. soybean farmers.

We call on you and your Administration to immediately halt any plans to provide financial assistance to Argentina. Instead of subsidizing a foreign country to influence a midterm election on behalf of your friend – and further undermining America’s farmers in the process – you should prioritize lowering costs for American families and strengthening the nation’s agricultural competitiveness.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-condemns-trump-hegseth-quantico-military-gathering,Reed Condemns Trump-Hegseth Quantico Military Gathering,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, after President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered hundreds of U.S. military leaders from across the world to gather in Quantico, Virginia, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:

“This event was an expensive, dangerous dereliction of leadership by the Trump Administration.

“While American forces confront real threats across the globe, Mr. Hegseth and President Trump chose to pull generals and admirals away from their missions to listen to hours of political grievances.

“Even more troubling was Mr. Hegseth’s ultimatum to America’s senior officers: conform to his political worldview or step aside. That demand is profoundly dangerous. It signals that partisan loyalty matters more than capability, judgment, or service to the Constitution, undermining the principle of a professional, nonpartisan military.

“His words were divisive and corrosive to the force itself. America’s military strength depends on men and women of every race, gender, and creed. By dismissing and marginalizing servicemembers who do not fit his narrow vision, Hegseth insulted those who serve honorably and eroded the cohesion that makes our military strong.

“President Trump’s remarks offered no strategy, no operational guidance, and no plan to address real threats. His reckless suggestion that American cities be used as “training grounds” for U.S. troops is a dangerous assault on our democracy, treating our own communities as war zones and our citizens as enemies.

“At a time when global security demands focus, this gathering distracted from our troops’ missions and wasted their time. Leadership requires seriousness and respect for those who serve. What happened at Quantico was the opposite.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-rolls-out-bipartisan-bill-to-increase-free-mobile-cancer-screenings,Reed Rolls Out Bipartisan Bill to Increase Free Mobile Cancer Screenings,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Each year, thousands of Americans die of cancer that was detected too late.

In an effort to help ensure more Americans have access to modern and potentially life-saving health checks and cancer screenings in their own communities, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is teaming up with U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) to introduce the Mobile Cancer Screening Act, a bipartisan bill to increase the availability of cancer detection services in underserved communities across the United States.

The Mobile Cancer Screening Act would offer up to $15 million annually in federal grants to help local hospitals and health centers purchase mobile Computed Tomography (CT) screening units to serve local communities in rural, isolated, and medically underserved communities. The mobile screening units would help make a positive difference, bringing life-saving care directly to patients in often overlooked areas who might not otherwise access preventive screenings.

“The Mobile Cancer Screening Act would make cancer screenings more convenient and accessible. Detecting cancer early offers patients a much better chance of treating and beating it. Increasing the number of mobile screening units across the country will help put these units in more communities and help save lives,” said Senator Reed. “Cancer screenings don’t have to be invasive, but when it comes to cancer detection, it pays to be proactive. These units will help people get properly diagnosed, treated, and give them the best shot to beat cancer.”

Current federal guidelines require most private insurers to cover annual cancer screenings for individuals at high risk due to their personal medical history. Still, many eligible patients encounter barriers to annual screenings, including lack of transportation access and long travel distances, leading to poorer cancer outcomes.

Reed noted the bipartisan bill is essential in the wake of the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill that President Trump signed into law to cut Medicaid and enact new stipulations that could lead to the closure of more rural hospitals, leading to further travel distances and increased health disparities for individuals in rural communities seeking health care.

The Mobile Cancer Screening Act has been introduced in the U.S. House of representatives by Congressman Gabe Evans (R-CO-08) and Congressman D. Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-urges-president-trump-not-to-force-a-federal-shutdown,Reed Urges President Trump Not to Force a Federal Shutdown,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – After President Trump ordered Congressional Republicans to continue rejecting any Democratic input on a continuing resolution, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement:

“President Trump controls every branch of government and his failed policies are about to cause insurance premiums to spike upwards of 75 percent for tens of millions of Americans, with millions more set to lose their coverage and access to health care in the weeks ahead. There is urgent need for bipartisan action, but instead, President Trump is forcing a government shutdown.

“Since taking office, President Trump has enriched himself and his cronies while his tariffs fuel inflation and his policies drive up the costs of everything from food to electricity to medicine for everyday Americans. He has ignored Congress, flouted the law, and his partisan enablers refuse to provide real checks and balances that the Framers established.

“Democrats are seeking to responsibly fund the government and protect your health care. I urge President Trump not to force a government shutdown.

“If the government shuts down, it’s because Donald Trump puts his personal grievances first and wants to further test the limits of his power. We already know a Trump shutdown would be costly, wasteful, and needlessly disruptive. A shutdown should be avoided, but Democrats can’t force Trump to put the needs of Americans above his own whims.

“I will continue working to reach a principled compromise that helps save your health care. And I am ready and willing to help negotiate a binding bipartisan solution that puts our country on a stronger, more secure, and prosperous trajectory.

“Regardless of whether the Trump Administration shuts down the government and causes millions to lose or pay more for health care, my office will continue working to assist Rhode Islanders, save our health care system, and deliver for our state. And I will do everything I can to hold President Trump accountable.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/ri-delegation-announces-234-million-to-remove-hazardous-former-point-street-bridge-pilings-from-providence-river,RI Delegation Announces $2.34 Million to Remove Hazardous Former Point Street Bridge Pilings from Providence River,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo today announced that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has awarded a $2,344,000 grant to the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) to remove toxic and hazardous debris remnants of the old Point Street Bridge from the Providence River.

“This $2.34 million grant will help advance removal of toxic and hazardous debris remnants of the old Point Street Bridge and mitigate the navigational hazards for neighbors, visitors, boaters, and others. Removing this pollution increases safety, supports our local marine ecosystems, and will help further cement Providence’s place as an inviting city to live, work, and visit,” said Reed.

“Old pilings in the Providence River are more than an eyesore – they create pollution and impede navigation. I am very glad CRMC and the Nature Conservancy have this federal funding to finally clear decaying debris from the gateway to our capital city,” said Whitehouse, a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee and a longtime champion for cleaning up marine debris in the Ocean State and around the world.

“Removing hazardous debris from the Providence River is good for the environment, the local economy, and Rhode Islanders’ quality of life,” said Magaziner, member of House Natural Resources Committee. “This new federal funding will make the river safer for boaters and strengthen Providence’s waterfront for residents and visitors alike.”

“The deteriorating wooden pilings from the former Point Street Bridge pollute the Providence River and impede marine navigation,” said Amo, Ranking Member of the Environment Subcommittee, which oversees NOAA’s climate and weather-related work. “In collaboration with our Rhode Island Congressional Delegation, I'm thrilled to celebrate federal funding from NOAA to clear these pilings and restore the ecosystem. I will continue to fight in Congress to support NOAA and ensure Rhode Islanders have clean, easy-to-navigate waterways.”

Built in 1927, the old Point Street Bridge spanned 529 feet across the Providence River and was originally protected by a wooden timber fender system. The bridge is no longer operational, and its severely deteriorated wooden timbers remain in place, posing risks to the environment and navigation. CRMC will partner with the Rhode Island chapter of the Nature Conservancy to remove approximately 250 tons of creosote timbers, swing station pilings, and sub-aquatic bridge debris. This cleanup will help restore the ecosystem and result in healthier fisheries across the Narragansett Bay Estuary. The project will also enhance navigational safety and restore the natural viewshed, supporting tourism and recreation in Providence’s vibrant waterfront district.

The grant comes from NOAA’s Marine Debris Program alongside more than $26.4 million in federal funding for 13 new projects to remove large marine debris in communities across the country. Funding for the Marine Debris Program was included in Democrats’ historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Senators Reed and Whitehouse helped pass in 2022.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-trumps-bailout-of-argentinas-right-wing-president-shortchanges-americans,Reed: Trump’s Bailout of Argentina’s Right-Wing President Shortchanges Americans,2025-09-29,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – With everyday costs in the U.S. on a tariff-fueled upswing and a federal government shutdown looming, the Trump Administration is sending billions in American taxpayer money to bail out right-wing Argentine President Javier Milei, who once handed Elon Musk a ‘bureaucracy chain saw’ onstage at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). President Donald Trump and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are offering Argentina a $20 billion financial backstop to try to help their far-right ally stabilize Argentina’s financial turmoil ahead of the South American country’s October midterm elections that are critical to Mr. Milei retaining power.

While Trump’s risky U.S. taxpayer-financed backstop offers very little upside for U.S. taxpayers, it appears to be a huge financial victory for a few wealthy investors and organizations with close ties to Bessent and Trump. Meanwhile, Trump’s so-called ‘deal’ is a gut-punch to American farmers who are already reeling from Trump’s tariffs because Argentina just suspended its soybean export taxes so it can undercut American farmers and boost Argentinian sales to China.

The Trump Administration’s move comes just months after Argentina received a separate $20 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and on top of another $40 billion that Argentina already needs to repay to the IMF. The Trump Administration has no plan for getting back American taxpayers’ $20 billion, especially as Argentina already must repay the IMF.

“Instead of lowering costs for Americans and preventing them from losing their health care, Donald Trump is taking $20 billion to prop up a flailing right-wing Argentinian politician whose highly indebted foreign government has already taken dozens of bailouts from international banks. Milei’s political party has been plagued by corruption scandals. So this could end up being a costly, ill-advised handout from President Trump to President Milei.

“Meanwhile, a few of the Trump Administration’s wealthy, well-connected friends appear to be cashing in on the move. The United States should help our foreign neighbors in need, but it should be done in a strategic, transparent way that broadly protects American interests. Instead, President Trump is handing our competitors a financial windfall while sidelining American farmers and shrinking the market for U.S.-grown products.

“President Trump’s disjointed policies are bailing out Argentina’s president and helping to make Argentina’s crops more attractive to foreign markets while raising costs on Americans. This is another terrible Trump ‘deal’ for Americans that put his narrow interests above the nation’s. Trump’s policies are causing more financial hardships for farmers, rural communities, and consumers in all fifty states.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-presents-posthumous-distinguished-flying-cross-to-family-of-local-wwii-hero,Reed Presents Posthumous Distinguished Flying Cross to Family of Local WWII Hero,2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"CRANSTON, RI – U.S. Senator Jack Reed today hosted a special military honors ceremony for the family of Mr. Daniel Rapoza, Sr. During World War II, Sergeant Daniel Rapoza served as a flight engineer on B-24L #44-41440, assigned to the 10th Air Force, 7th Bombardment Group, 493rd Bombardment Squadron. His plane crashed in the mountains during a search mission looking for an Allied B-29 aircraft and all aboard were reported killed in action.

During today’s ceremony in Cranston, Senator Reed honored Mr. Rapoza’s heroic service and thanked his family members from Tiverton for preserving the story of their father and grandfather’s service during World War II and presented them with several medals that Sgt. Rapoza earned during World War II, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, and Air Medal.

Congress established the Distinguished Flying Cross on July 2, 1926. It may be awarded to any Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard personnel, while serving in the capacity of the Armed Forces, who distinguish themselves for heroism or outstanding achievement while participating in aerial flight. The Purple Heart medal is a solemn distinction presented to service members who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. military. The Air Medal is awarded for sustained performance while participating in aerial flight under combat conditions.

Born to parents, Jacintho and Emily Rapoza, in March of 1923, Mr. Rapoza grew up, went to school, and worked alongside his family throughout Southeastern Massachusetts as a farmer, machinist, and manufacturer. He was 19 when he joined the U.S. Army Air Corps in February 1942, just about two years after marrying his wife, Lena, who gave birth to their son, Daniel Rapoza Jr., while Mr. Rapoza was in training.

After being trained as an airplane mechanic at the Curtiss-Wright Technical Institute in Glendale, California, Technical Sergeant Daniel Rapoza served as the flight engineer on B-24L #44-41440, assigned to the 10th Air Force, 7th Bombardment Group, 493rd Bombardment Squadron.

On November 5, 1944, Sgt. Rapoza’s bomber was part of a six plane formation that departed Pandaveswar, India in search of a missing B-29 that had not returned from a mission over the Bay of Bengal. During the mission, Mr. Rapoza’s B-24L Liberator was seen pulling away from the rest of the planes and did not return to the base. A subsequent search later that month found that the plane crashed approximately twenty miles southwest of Udala, Burma, on top of the Banjhikusame Mountain Range, and no crew members survived.

In recognition of Mr. Rapoza’s extraordinary and meritorious achievements as an engineer gunner flying missions throughout the Pacific during the Second World War, Senator Reed, a U.S. Army veteran and Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, presented Mr. Daniel Rapoza, Jr. with military honors that were posthumously awarded to his father, including:

Distinguished Flying Cross;

Purple Heart;

Air Medal;

Good Conduct Medal;

Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal;

World War II Victory Medal;

Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII;

Marksman Badge with Pistol Bar, and;

Marksman Badge with Carbine Bar

“We are forever proud of men like Sgt. Daniel Rapoza and grateful to members of the Greatest Generation and their families. Mr. Rapoza was just 19 when he joined the Army Air Corps during a defining moment in history. During the war, he bravely flew hundreds of hours of missions over the Pacific as an Engineer Gunner. I am honored to present his family with the military awards that he earned. On behalf of a grateful nation, we express our enduring gratitude for Mr. Rapoza’s tremendous service and sacrifice,” said Senator Reed.

“For many decades we were not able to access my father’s military records,” said Mr. Daniel Rapoza, Jr. “I appreciate the work of Senator Reed in helping to find them, attain these medals, and bring some closure to our family.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-rebukes-trumps-pressure-campaign-to-indict-james-comey-on-false-statement-charges,Reed Rebukes Trump’s Pressure Campaign to Indict James Comey on False Statement Charges,2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI -- After President Donald Trump ordered U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to prosecute former FBI Director James Comey and other individuals who President Trump has labeled his ‘enemies,’ and after President Trump pressured Erik Siebert, the now former-U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, to resign because Siebert refused to prosecute them, and after Trump named a White House staffer with zero prosecutorial experience as Seibert’s replacement to rush the prosecution, Mr. Comey has been indicted by a grand jury in the Eastern District of Virginia on two counts of making false statements and obstruction of justice.

In a major departure from DOJ norms, the former White House aide and newly installed acting U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia personally presented the case to the grand jury, rather than long-serving assistant U.S. Attorneys, who usually make these presentations to the grand jury, and who reportedly raised concerns about the case.

This stunning development comes on the heels of President Trump sending a written communication to Attorney General Pam Bondi via Truth Social that addressed her directly as “Pam” and demanded that action be taken against Comey and others. President Trump wrote: “We can’t delay any longer, it’s killing our reputation and credibility,” and “They impeached me twice, and indicted me (5 times!) OVER NOTHING. JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!”

Mr. Comey has denied wrongdoing.

Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement:

“This is yet another instance of President Trump abusing power, this time by firing and forcing professional prosecutors to try and put one of his perceived enemies in jail.

“He is seeking vengeance to settle a personal grudge. We are supposed to be a nation of laws in which criminal investigations are conducted impartially. The law must be applied equally and fairly to everyone without any political bias.

“I have little faith that this prosecution meets that standard. At the same time, I do have faith that a judge and jury will follow the law and the evidence and that justice will run its course.

“There must be an investigation into how President Trump has corrupted the Department of Justice and perverted the rule of law.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/ri-delegation-delivers-over-85-million-for-local-firefighters,RI Delegation Delivers Over $8.5 Million for Local Firefighters,2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI -- Today, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo announced $3,080,791 in federal grants to strengthen safety and training, upgrade equipment, and purchase new emergency response vehicles for fire departments in Barrington, Central Falls, Cranston, Cumberland, Exeter, Jamestown, Johnston, Lincoln, Manville, Newport, Portsmouth, Prudence Island, Smithfield, and Woonsocket. Additionally the Providence Fire Department is being awarded $5,447,112 in federal funds through three competitive grants.

Rhode Island’s delegation helped secure a total of $648 million in FY2024 federal funding to make this round of competitive fire grant awards available to communities nationwide through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program.

Federal AFG grants are designed to help local fire departments upgrade and modernize their equipment, improve training, and enhance their abilities to comply with response, equipment, and operational standards established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). SAFER grants support the hiring and retention of firefighters. Together, these programs have injected tens of millions of dollars in federal assistance into local fire departments across Rhode Island over the last decade, enhancing their response and staffing capabilities to provide fire protection, emergency medical services, search and rescue, hazardous materials incident response, and wildfire response.

Local Fire Departments in the following communities will receive federal AFG funds to enhance the safety of firefighters and improve emergency response:

BARRINGTON: $34,857.14 for CPR devices

CENTRAL FALLS: $43,909.09 for firefighter turnout gear

CRANSTON: $500,000.00 toward vehicle acquisition for a new pumper truck

CUMBERLAND: $167,013.36 for new firefighter breathing apparatus

EXETER: $690,476.19 for vehicle acquisition of a tanker truck for Exeter Volunteer Fire Company No. 2

JAMESTOWN: $285,714.28 for new firefighter breathing apparatus

JOHNSTON: $141,787.27 for firefighter bailout kits, which are personal safety kits that allow firefighters to escape if they are cutoff by a fire collapse, and portable multi-gas meters to detect dangerous gas leaks

LINCOLN: $472,022.72 for advanced firefighter training programs and $60,357.14 for new firefighting hoses

MANVILLE: $108,001.90 for firefighter turnout gear, specialized PPE washer/dryer units

NEWPORT: $160,090.96 for new firefighting hose, nozzles, appliances

PORTSMOUTH: $218,460.95 for paramedic training programs

PROVIDENCE: a SAFER award for $3,985,936.00 to hire 16 firefighters; $1,461,176.70 for firefighter training, wellness programs, and cardiac monitors; and $369,711.82 in AFG funds for vehicle acquisition of a new ambulance

PRUDENCE ISLAND: $94,563.77 for firefighter turnout gear for volunteer firefighters

SMITHFIELD: $49,909.09 for new CPR devices

WOONSOCKET: $262,681.82 for firefighter bail out kits, cardiac arrest monitors, and new automatic defibrillators

TOTAL: $8,527,903

“Rhode Island’s brave firefighters help save lives and keep our communities safe. We owe it to them to provide them with the best equipment and training possible,” said Senator Reed. “This federal funding ensures our first responders have the right tools and staffing levels to do their jobs safely and effectively. I urge the Trump Administration to make all fire grant funding available to communities in a timely manner so our fire departments can effectively budget and plan for the future.”

“Firefighters serve on the frontlines protecting their communities each day,” said Senator Whitehouse. “This federal funding will provide a big boost for fifteen local fire departments to ensure they have the tools and resources needed to conduct their work safely and effectively.”

“Fire departments across Rhode Island are too often they are working with outdated equipment. We owe it to them to ensure they have the tools and training they need to respond quickly and keep Rhode Islanders safe,” said Representative Magaziner. “I will continue working to bring federal resources back to our state so that local departments are not left to shoulder these costs alone.”

“Rhode Island firefighters run into danger to keep our communities safe,” said Congressman Gabe Amo. “This federal funding will help ensure firefighters across the Ocean State have the training and tools they need to safely do their jobs. I will always fight for federal funding that keeps Rhode Island communities safe.”

Over the last two years, Rhode Island fire departments and other first responders across the state have been awarded over $30 million in federal funding through FEMA’s AFG and the Staffing For Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant funding.

Senator Reed leads an annual fire grant workshop that helps local fire departments with the competitive grant application process. Both AFG and SAFER awards are based on need, scope, community impact, and overall application merit.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-trump-is-marching-us-toward-a-government-shutdown-while-forcing-millions-of-americans-to-lose-health-care,Reed: Trump is Marching U.S. Toward a Government Shutdown While Forcing Millions of Americans to Lose Health Care,2025-09-25,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Earlier this week President Donald Trump abruptly canceled talks with Democratic Congressional leaders on funding the federal government and averting a shutdown. With a potential shutdown looming after September 30, the Trump White House circulated a memo late Wednesday to federal agencies directing political appointees to plan to use the shutdown as an excuse for mass-firings.

Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement:

“Every Democrat voted to prevent millions of Americans from losing health care and to keep the government open. It’s time for President Trump to accept reality and avoid yet another Trump-shutdown. But so far Trump is dragging his feet, cancelling meetings, refusing to negotiate, and now threatening to fire even more Americans who work for the federal government.

“Democrats have a plan for health care and the budget; Trump and the Republicans clearly don’t or they’d be at the table right now rather than threatening people’s livelihoods and their health care.

“In the days ahead, I expect Donald Trump to spend a lot of avoiding the truth and trying to blame everyone but himself. But that doesn’t change the facts or fix the health care mess he created.

“Senate Republicans have already admitted that President Trump is the holdup and all they need to resolve this issue is a greenlight from the White House to negotiate a bipartisan solution. Instead, Donald Trump, who’s tariffs are hurting consumers and farmers, is going to try to inflict pain on innocent, hardworking Americans.

“Time is of the essence. The President signed a law slashing nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid just as open enrollment season rapidly approaches. If President Trump prevents Congress from acting, 25 million Americans who get their insurance through ACA exchanges will see premiums spike by about 75 percent. And millions more with employer-sponsored coverage could face equal or even higher price increases. Democrats are fighting to give these Americans an urgent and much-needed lifeline. Instead of shutting the government down, President Trump should start working toward a solution.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-vaccines-save-lives-and-trumps-unfounded-medical-conspiracy-theories-put-kids-and-communities-kids-at-risk,Reed: Vaccines Save Lives & Trump’s Unfounded Medical Conspiracy Theories Put Kids and Communities Kids at Risk,2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"EAST PROVIDENCE, RI – This week, President Donald Trump irresponsibly promoted debunked anti-vaccine claims, wrongly implied vaccines are causing autism, and injected his own ‘gut feelings’ into calls for changes to the childhood immunization schedule that could have negative health impacts for children and U.S. public health.

Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed reminded people that vaccines are safe and effective and significantly improve health outcomes and reduce direct health care expenditures by preventing diseases before they occur.

Reed urged parents and expectant parents to listen to their pediatricians, not Donald Trump, when it comes to medical advice and vaccinating children. And he urged the Trump Administration to work with Congress on a bipartisan basis to strengthen, not weaken, the nation’s health care system and ensure people have access to affordable health care.

“Vaccines save lives. By creating vaccine confusion and spreading misinformation about autism, President Trump did a real disservice to parents and patients looking to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Evidence-based medicine works and the facts are clear: Vaccines are safe, effective, and help save lives and money,” said Senator Reed. “When it comes to vaccines and children’s health, parents should follow the science and not politics: Listen to your pediatrician about the benefits, risks, and everything needed to make an informed decision. Neither Donald Trump nor Robert Kennedy Jr. have any medical or scientific background. They are recklessly politicizing the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), an organization that should be apolitical. I’m working at the federal level to restore integrity and evidence-based facts to our public health system,” said Senator Reed.

When it comes to vaccine safety, major medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, consistently affirm the safety and efficacy of vaccines.

Pediatricians also emphasize that there are benefits and risks when it comes to medical choices, including vaccines. While the risks of serious side effects from vaccines are extremely rare, the benefits -- including preventing severe disease, hospitalization, and death -- are quite substantial to both individuals and communities.

In Rhode Island, the state’s vaccination rate during the 2024 school year was 96.7 percent according to an analysis of state health and state education department data conducted by NBC News and Stanford University that looked at core childhood vaccines that includes measles, mumps, rubella, polio, whooping cough, and diphtheria shots. The report found that nationally 68 percent of counties and jurisdictions currently have immunization rates below 95 percent — the level of herd immunity doctors say is needed to protect against an outbreak.

“Rhode Island proudly boasts some of the highest pediatric vaccine rates in the nation but given the barrage of current headlines and social media posts, we want to continue to keep all of our children protected and vaccinated against significant, and at times, life threatening, preventable illnesses,” said Dr. Elizabeth Lange, a pediatrician at Waterman Pediatrics/Coastal Medical Lifespan and co-director of PCMH-Kids. “With all the vaccine success stories we have and the statistics to back them up, knowing that we have the vaccines to prevent devastating illnesses, why would we knowingly go back? The science is clear – vaccines are well studied, well tolerated, and the safest way to protect children and all citizens against serious and life-threatening infections.”

“Prevention is at the heart of pediatrics. We strive to help children grow into their best selves, physically healthy, emotionally strong, and confident. In this work, vaccines are incredible important. Vaccines are the safety and most effective way to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, like measles, whooping cough, and polio,” said Dr. Patricia Flanagan, a pediatrician at Hasbro Children’s Hospital, a professor of pediatrics at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and co-director, PCMH-Kids. “Thanks to vaccines, many serious diseases that used to be common are now rarely seen. Ensuring that children stay up to date on vaccinations keeps these diseases from making a comeback. Because the germs are still out there.”

Since becoming President Trump’s secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), Kennedy has undermined America’s public health consensus, leading to the dismissal of Director Susan Monarez from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the departure of other top CDC officials who refused to carry out Kennedy’s dangerous, anti-science policies, with one former CDC expert accusing him of “weaponization of public health.”

During the event, Senator Reed warned President Trump and Secretary Kennedy’s spread of misinformation about childhood vaccinations could lead to more infections, more hospitalizations, and more preventable deaths.

“Ensuring children have access to routine childhood vaccinations is a public health imperative,” said Senator Reed. “The Trump Administration should stop spreading vaccine misinformation, cutting Medicaid, reducing access to affordable health coverage, and driving up health care costs.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/trump-abruptly-bails-on-meeting-with-democratic-leaders-and-then-demands-democrats-bail-him-out,Trump Abruptly Bails on Meeting with Democratic Leaders & Then Demands Democrats Bail Him Out,2025-09-23,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – A week from today, funding for the government expires at midnight on September 30. Today, President Donald Trump reversed himself and abruptly cancelled a bipartisan meeting with Democratic leadership in the Oval Office to discuss efforts to avoid a federal government shutdown.

Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement:

“Donald Trump is making a mess of our economy and health care system. He’s recklessly raising prices and taking a bigger bite out of average people’s paychecks while placing a heavier burden on state budgets, all while giving billionaires a bigger tax windfall.

“Democrats put forward a proposal that actually won more votes than Trump’s. We have offered President Trump a clear plan to address rising costs and provide a bipartisan offramp to avoid a shutdown, but so far, he refuses to even talk about it.

“If Donald Trump thinks he can bail on negotiations and then expect Senate Democrats to bail him out as he worsens the health care crisis, fuels inflation, forces people to pay more, and undermines our states then he is sorely mistaken.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/as-trump-dawdles-federal-government-hurtles-toward-avoidable-shutdown,"As Trump Dawdles, Federal Government Hurtles Toward Avoidable Shutdown",2025-09-22,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- The Hill newspaper reports: “Republican and Democratic lawmakers on Capitol Hill say Washington is headed for a government shutdown next week unless President Trump intervenes to cut a deal with Democrats.”

Despite Trump’s claims to the contrary, Republicans need Democratic buy-in to pass spending bills, but The Hill notes that Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) does not want to sit down with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) to negotiate a deal to keep the government open past September 30 because: “Republican sources familiar with the Senate’s internal dynamics say that Thune doesn’t want to begin negotiating with Schumer until he’s clear what Trump is willing to accept, and Trump himself has yet to give the GOP leader clear guidance about what he would sign into law.”

After this stunning admission, U.S. Senator Jack Reed stated: “Donald Trump has presided over multiple government shutdowns and now he’s veering toward another one. A solution could have been reached weeks ago, but Donald Trump can’t even be bothered to talk to Senate Republican leaders. Republicans are paralyzed by Trump’s apathy and lack of focus. The dysfunction of this White House threatens to force an avoidable shutdown.”

Sixty votes are needed to advance legislation in the U.S. Senate. Republicans currently hold a 53-seat majority in the U.S. Senate while Senate Democrats and Independents hold 47 seats.

Senate Democrats have offered a bill to keep the federal government funded on a short-term basis, protect Congress’ power of the purse, and preserve existing health care programs. They have repeatedly requested bipartisan meetings to negotiate, but Trump ordered Senate Republicans not to hold discussions.

“Republicans unilaterally decimated Medicaid and are threatening access to affordable health care for millions of Americans, while the Trump Administration’s stances, tactics, and giveaways to the insurance industry are threatening major health price hikes for over 150 million Americans with employer-sponsored health coverage. Democrats are united in demanding that Congress address this avoidable health care crisis on a bipartisan basis,” said Reed.

The Hill noted:

“Thune said Republicans are discussing that issue [an extension of ACA health programs] but aren’t close to a consensus on what needs to be done.

“It’s another subject that we’ve had a number of discussions about and the House has too. The White House obviously is going to have to be involved in that conversation at some point,” Thune said.

Senator Reed questioned why President Trump has been AWOL when it comes to basic governing: “Even Senator Thune seems frustrated at this point because of Trump’s dawdling and lack of focus on the basic functions of government. President Trump claimed he could pass spending bills with only Republican votes. Now that the Senate has shown that it takes a bipartisan majority to pass legislation, he needs to start working. He must pick up the phone and talk to Senator Thune and Senator Schumer,” said Reed.

The Hill also states:

“One Republican senator who requested anonymity to comment on Thune’s relationship with Trump said the GOP leader wants to be careful of not getting too far in front of the president in any negotiation with Schumer.

“The lawmaker said the impasse between Thune and Schumer over the looming expiration of the Affordable Care Act premium subsidies is “solvable” but not without Trump giving GOP leaders on Capitol Hill the green light.

“The senator said Republicans even talked about extending the subsidies during the negotiation over the budget reconciliation package that enacted much of Trump’s agenda and passed earlier this year.

“The lawmaker said it was left out in part because GOP lawmakers thought there would be bipartisan support for extending the subsidies at a later date.”

Senator Reed stated: “Privately, Senate Republicans admit this is a mess of Trump’s making. They anonymously confess to the press this impasse is easily “solvable” and the only holdup is Trump’s refusal to give Republican leaders the greenlight to reach an agreement. GOP Congressional leaders are capable of reaching an agreement with Democrats that will ensure the government stays open and works for the American people, but they are wary because Trump has demonstrated in the past that he is capable of swooping in at the last minute to scuttle any agreement they reach.”

As the shutdown looms at the end of the month, Congressional Republicans adjourned both the House and Senate chambers and the House is not scheduled to reconvene until after the shutdown deadline, another clear sign that Republicans are angling for a federal shutdown.

During President Trump’s first term in office, his Administration forced several shutdowns – including a monthlong shutdown that was the longest in federal history. They were costly, wasteful, and achieved nothing.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-condemns-trump-admins-attempt-to-restrict-free-speech-and-freedom-of-the-press,Reed Condemns Trump Admin’s Attempt to Restrict Free Speech & Freedom of the Press,2025-09-20,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- After Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth issued a memo seeking to restrict how journalists can cover the U.S. Department of Defense going forward -- calling for a signed pledge not to gather any information, including unclassified reports, that hasn't been authorized for release -- U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, condemned the move and issued the following statement:

“This is an ill-advised affront to free speech and freedom of the press. This goes beyond attempting to suppress criticism -- Mr. Hegseth’s goal appears to be eliminating a critical check on government corruption, unlawful practices, and the misuse of taxpayer dollars.

“Secretary Hegseth’s restrictions on the press are part of a broader attempt by this Administration to cover up missteps, stifle independent journalism, and obscure the truth.

“American journalists are not, should not, and must not be mere stenographers for the party in power or the Pentagon itself. Their job is to independently uncover and report the truth, hold those in power accountable, and help keep the American people informed.

“Both Democrats and Republicans should speak out against this. We must defend the Constitution and the right to speak freely about government actions without being unfairly silenced or controlled by the government itself.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-trump-raising-social-security-retirement-age-would-be-a-massive-betrayal-of-americans,Reed: Trump Raising Social Security Retirement Age Would be a “Massive Betrayal of Americans”,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jack Reed today hit back against President Trump’s Social Security Administration (SSA) Commissioner Frank Bisignano’s admission that the Trump Administration is considering raising the retirement age for American workers. Reed stated:

“The Trump Administration’s DOGE era moves are already making it harder for Social Security beneficiaries to access their benefits. Now they are talking about pushing up the retirement age so people have to work longer and get fewer benefits.

“Talk of hiking up the retirement age is yet another massive betrayal of Americans by President Trump. The cost of living is up, he’s threatening health care for millions, he broke the bank so he could give billionaires tax cuts, and now he wants to raise the retirement age? This administration is out of control.”

“Congress must shoot down the Trump Administration’s trial balloon to raise the retirement age and work on a bipartisan basis to protect Social Security.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-trumps-weakness-emboldens-putin-to-expand-dangerous-incursions-into-nato-countries-airspace,Reed: Trump’s Weakness Emboldens Putin to Expand Dangerous Incursions into NATO Countries’ Airspace,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Three Russian fighter jets breached Estonian airspace today in what appears to be the third significant attempt by the Russian military this month -- following previous drone incursions into Poland and Romania -- to test NATO’s eastern border.

After this brazen provocation by the Russian military, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, urged President Donald Trump to strengthen security cooperation with NATO allies, provide Ukraine with the equipment it needs to repel Russian invaders, and impose severe sanctions on Russia to let Vladimir Putin know endangering U.S. and European interests will not be tolerated. Today, Senator Reed stated:

“It’s unclear why Donald Trump is so deferential to Vladimir Putin. But it’s painfully obviously that after Trump rolled out the red carpet for Putin in Alaska, Russia became emboldened and continues to expand its aggression beyond Ukraine’s borders with virtually no pushback from the Trump Administration.

“Donald Trump should join America’s allies who are already levying tough economic penalties to counter Putin. There is broad bipartisan support for such actions. Instead, Trump’s feeble and feckless response has sent the wrong message to Putin and to U.S. allies, putting U.S. leadership, interests, and security at risk.

“President Trump must strongly condemn these Russian breaches of NATO airspace and work to restore deterrence. Trump has powerful cards to play, but continued inaction only strengthens Putin’s position. The American people deserve answers as to why President Trump is behaving so meekly and failing to deter the Kremlin. The cost of his continued apathy will almost certainly be a more aggressive Putin and a wider conflict.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/senate-republicans-reject-bill-to-prevent-trumps-health-care-price-hikes-and-extend-government-funding,Senate Republicans Reject Bill to Prevent Trump’s Health Care Price Hikes & Extend Government Funding,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Despite the fact that Republicans have a majority in the U.S. Senate, Senate Democrats got a majority of Senators to support the Democratic proposal to avoid a federal government shutdown today – but the measure still fell short.

Forty-five Senate Republicans voted against a Democratic proposal to keep the federal government funded on a short-term basis, protect Congress’ power of the purse, and address the health care crisis caused by President Trump and Congressional Republicans.

Sixty votes are needed to advance legislation in the U.S. Senate. Republicans currently hold a 53 seat majority in the U.S. Senate while Senate Democrats and Independents hold 47 seats.

After refusing to negotiate with Democrats, Senate Republican leaders put forward a Trump-written bill today that would have funded the government at current spending levels through November 21 and ignored the impending health care price hikes facing millions of Americans. The MAGA-Republican bill failed to attract a simple majority and was defeated on a vote of 44-48, with U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) being the only Democrat to vote yes, and U.S. Senators Rand Paul (R-KY) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) joining Democrats in voting no.

A competing Democratic plan earned more votes and got a majority in the Senate chamber but with a final tally of 47-45, it failed to clear the 60-vote threshold.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has been urging Republican leaders for weeks to start negotiating a bipartisan fix to prevent a shutdown. Reed noted the only way to achieve 60 votes is for both sides to ignore President Trump and start negotiating on health care costs and the annual appropriations bills. Today, Senator Reed stated:

“Democrats have a real plan to address health care costs and fund the government. But Republicans control every branch of government and there is nothing Democrats can do to prevent President Trump from forcing a shutdown.

“Democrats support responsibly funding the government and addressing the health care crisis to prevent these Trump-imposed price hikes, but that only happens if Republicans come to the table so we can prevent millions of Americans in all fifty states from being hit with massive health care price spikes.

“So far, the Congressional Republican strategy is to try to ignore their constituents, ignore simple math, and go it alone without lifting a finger to earn Democratic votes. They are refusing to negotiate. Democrats are willing to reach a compromise, but we’re not going to go along with a plan that sticks it to millions of people over, does nothing about prices, and leaves them without access to affordable health coverage.

“The sooner Republicans come to the table, the sooner we can hammer out an agreement.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/new-cbo-report-shows-health-price-spikes-coverage-loss-will-worsen-if-republicans-fail-to-act-on-aca-tax-credits,"New CBO Report Shows Health Price Spikes, Coverage Loss Will Worsen if Republicans Fail to Act on ACA Tax Credits",2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The Trump Administration’s policies, regulation, tariffs, and legal changes are making health coverage less affordable for millions of Americans and have resulted in the steepest health premium increases in 15 years for Americans with employer-sponsored insurance.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed says it is imperative for Republicans to help reverse President Trump’s health care price hikes on Americans as a new report from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) shows 3.8 million more people will lose health insurance coverage if Republicans continue to reject Democrats’ proposal for the end of the year budget. Altogether, around 15 million people will lose health coverage in the coming decade because of the Trump Administration’s health cuts and inaction.

“First President Trump enacted the largest cut to health care in U.S. history and now he’s driving up the cost of health care for even more Americans. Congress must urgently act on a bipartisan basis to lower costs, prevent these premium price hikes, and offer some much needed financial relief to hardworking Americans who are getting squeezed by Trump’s tariff taxes. This new CBO report underscores the urgent need for Congress to act before Americans in all fifty states are hit with double digit price increases for their health care. Democrats aren’t asking for anything new or unreasonable here, just an extension of bipartisan, lifesaving tax credits to ensure millions of Americans can afford to see a doctor,” said Senator Reed.

The findings from CBO include:

If Congress fails to act to extend the ACA tax credits before September 30, there will be unavoidable premium spikes and coverage losses in 2026 even if the tax credits are extended at a later date.

Failure to extend ACA tax credits would cause an increase of premiums by 7.6 percent for the over 20 million people who buy coverage on the ACA Marketplace over the budget window.

Repealing the provisions of the Trump administration ACA rule would protect ACA coverage for 1.8 million people, and reduce out-of-pocket costs for everyone with ACA coverage. CBO’s estimates reflect the current court stay on the rule.

Repealing the ACA cuts in the Republican reconciliation bill would protect coverage for 2.9 million people who buy their own insurance on the ACA Marketplace.

The Republican attacks on the ACA this year inject uncertainty into insurance markets across the country that will make premiums more volatile and make it more complicated for working people to enroll and remain enrolled in affordable coverage.

The latest estimate from CBO brings the total Republican health care cuts to nearly $2 trillion, between the reconciliation bill, failing to extend the ACA tax credits, and actions by the Trump administration. 15 million Americans will lose their health insurance, including 7 million losing coverage through the Affordable Care Act. That number could grow pending court action.

The analysis comes as boosted tax credits for Americans who buy health insurance on their own are due to expire at the end of 2025.

Democrats are warning that the time for action is now: open enrollment to purchase health insurance under the ACA begins on November 1st. If the tax credits are not extended, Americans will see significantly higher premiums and deductibles and many will be deterred from shopping further.

Republicans’ refusal to mitigate this premium crisis is amplified by the Trump Administration’s rulemaking and Republicans’ budget bill. Trump’s ACA rule, parts of which are currently blocked by the courts, will ensnare Americans who buy their own insurance in red tape, increase their health care costs, and let insurance companies offer worse quality coverage, while CBO’s analysis confirms Trumpcare cuts hundreds of billions from the ACA that will bury people seeking affordable health care coverage in red tape.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-whitehouse-help-unveil-the-billionaires-income-tax-act-to-ensure-billionaires-pay-their-fair-share,Reed & Whitehouse Help Unveil the Billionaires Income Tax Act to Ensure Billionaires Pay Their Fair Share,2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to ensure fairness in the U.S. tax system and crack down on tax avoidance techniques by billionaires, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) are teaming up with U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) to reintroduce the Billionaires Income Tax Act (S.2845).

This legislation would help ensure billionaires pay a fair share in annual taxes just like Americans who work for a living already do. The bill would prevent billionaires and those who receive over $100 million in three consecutive years from hiding their money from taxation and saddling hardworking taxpayers with the high costs of tax avoidance.

“While people like nurses and firefighters pay taxes straight out of every paycheck, there’s a thicket of little-known tricks and accounting rules that allow billionaires to opt out of paying a fair share of tax on the income they enjoy,” Senator Wyden said. “Billionaires and Republicans are going to offer up the same set of trickle-down arguments to pretend this proposal would bring about the end of western civilization. The only time you hear billionaires claim they can’t scrounge together any cash is when somebody brings up taxes, and odds are a lot of these mega-wealthy individuals are crying poverty from their yachts and private islands. This is a carefully designed proposal that draws on accounting methods already used in the tax code and raises revenue without increasing any tax rates.”

“Under President Trump, more Americans are struggling to afford healthcare, housing and groceries, and they rightfully believe our economy and our tax system are wildly skewed to favor the ultra-wealthy Americans,” said Senator Reed. “While millions of Americans pay taxes directly from their paycheck each month, billionaires with an armada of accountants are able to shield their wealth from taxation and pay a much lower tax rate on their earnings and wealth than the typical, hardworking family. Our bill fixes this disparity and ensures that billionaires pay their share of taxes just like everyone else. American families deserve no less.”

“Billionaires shouldn’t pay lower tax rates than teachers and firefighters,” said Senator Whitehouse, a member of the Senate Finance Committee. “I’m a strong supporter of Senator Wyden’s legislation to begin leveling the playing field for the middle class and put our democracy on a stronger path.”

The Billionaires Income Tax would expand on an accounting method already used in the U.S. tax code to ensure billionaires pay a fair share. It would not increase tax rates. The proposal would apply to fewer than 1,000 taxpayers and raise more than $500 billion, which could be used to help shore up funding for vital programs like Social Security and Medicare. Only taxpayers with more than $100 million in annual income or more than $1 billion in assets for three consecutive years would be covered by the proposal. It would not affect middle income taxpayers in any way.

In addition to Wyden, Reed, and Whitehouse, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tina Smith (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Peter Welch (D-VT), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Martin Heinrich (D-NN), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD).

The Billionaires Income Tax is also endorsed by over 100 supporting organizations. A letter of endorsement with the full list of supporting organizations can be found here.

On the House side, Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) and Congressman Don Beyer (VA-8) introduced companion legislation, making this the first Congress in which the Billionaires Income Tax is a bicameral proposal.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-whitehouse-seek-to-restore-noaas-extreme-weather-database-keep-americans-informed-of-natural-disasters,"Reed & Whitehouse Seek to Restore NOAA’s Extreme Weather Database, Keep Americans Informed of Natural Disasters",2025-09-17,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – After the Trump Administration terminated America’s extreme weather database that has tracked the cost of disasters since 1980, a group of leading U.S. Senators is fighting back.

U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) are teaming up with U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) and several colleagues in introducing the Measuring the Cost of Disasters Act. legislation that would reverse the Trump Administration’s reckless decision to end the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s extreme weather database, which has been vital to keeping families, researchers, and policy makers informed on the cost of natural disasters.

The legislation would require NOAA to restore and maintain the Billion Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters database, which collects and publishes information on natural disasters resulting in at least $1 billion in damage each year in the United States.

In addition to Welch, Reed and Whitehouse, the Measuring the Cost of Disasters Act is also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tina Smith (D-MN), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM).

“The Trump Administration is on the warpath to attack science and wreck any progress we’ve made to help fight climate change. That includes the President’s decision to terminate NOAA’s extreme weather tracker, which was vital in sharing information with Vermonters during and after the brutal floods in July of 2023 and 2024. And it’s not just Vermont–this database has been absolutely essential in providing information about the cost of building back homes, businesses, and towns across the country after major weather disasters. The reality is that without this tool, we’ll be worse off and less informed about how to help our communities recover when natural disasters hit,” said Senator Welch. “Our legislation will reverse the Trump Administration’s reckless decision and restore this database so crucial to emergency preparedness and reducing costs of natural disasters.”

“NOAA’s database on the impacts of severe weather events is essential. As climate change increases the severity, frequency, and cost of these events, we must do more to help our communities prepare and respond,” said Senator Reed. “This data has been instrumental in helping communities better understand the growing toll of extreme weather. The Trump Administration’s actions to significantly downsize NOAA leaves our communities less prepared and less informed about the dangers of severe weather events.”

“Trump’s megadonors want to hide the skyrocketing costs of their decades-long fossil fuel disinformation campaign. That’s why the corrupt Trump Administration shut down data reporting on billion-dollar weather disasters. Hiding the cost of climate chaos—as extreme weather grows increasingly frequent—won’t protect families and communities, but it will enable Trump’s fossil fuel patrons to keep cashing in while the rest of us pay the price,” said Senator Whitehouse.

Since 1980, NOAA has maintained a database of all weather disasters in the United States totaling at least $1 billion in damage. The Billion Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters database has been essential in tracking how an exponential increase in climate-driven natural disasters over the last two decades has raised costs associated with disaster recovery. The database has also helped communities and lawmakers more effectively allocate resources before extreme weather events.

From 1980-2024, the Billion Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters database recorded 403 weather and climate disasters resulting in at least $1 billion in damages. Combined, losses from these events exceed $2.9 trillion.

In 2024, the United States experienced 27 individual weather and climate disasters over $1 billion in damages, totaling more than $182.7 billion—the fourth highest on record behind 2017, 2005, and 2022. As the severity and cost of natural disasters continue to rise, research tracking the type and frequency of extreme weather events is crucial to ensuring the efficient allocation of resources and effective resilience strategies.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-trumps-tax-bill-decimates-medicaid-and-will-increase-health-care-prices-for-all-americans,Reed: Trump’s Tax Bill Decimates Medicaid & Will Increase Health Care Prices for All Americans,2025-09-16,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"PROVIDENCE, RI – With Rhode Island health insurance premiums slated to increase by over 20 percent in many cases in the coming year and approximately 175,000 Rhode Islanders who are covered by commercial insurance plans slated to see their premiums rise by double digits in 2026, U.S. Senator Jack Reed is calling on President Trump and Congressional Republicans to work with Democrats and negotiate an end of year budget fix that lessens the blow on families and small businesses.

“Costs matter and it’s high time for President Trump and Congressional Republicans to acknowledge the obvious: Their policies are driving up health care costs for everyone. The Trump-Republican Medicaid cuts will hit seniors, children, disabled Americans, health care providers, hospitals and more. Now the president is saying he won’t support any relief. It’s a continuation of his failure to live up to his campaign promises on the cost of living. If he won’t come to the table and even talk to Democrats about health care costs, then winning Democratic support is far less likely,” said Senator Reed.

Reed is pressing Republican leaders and President Trump to extend enhanced premium tax credits (PTC) for health care premiums purchased under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), warning that nearly 38,000 Rhode Island residents who purchase coverage through HealthSource RI with tax credits will see a dramatic increase in out-of-pocket costs in 2026.

If the ACA tax credits disappear, average premiums could soar by as much as 75 percent, according to KFF, a nonpartisan health policy research group.

The average HealthSourceRI enrollee is expected to pay $1,248 more annually for the same health insurance plan if the credits expire. Reed warned that more than 11,000 Rhode Island residents are at risk of losing coverage because they won’t be able to afford it and called on Congress to extend the credits before they expire on September 30 to keep health costs from skyrocketing.

“President Trump’s Medicaid cuts and Congressional Republicans refusal to extend these tax credits means people who need health care aren’t going to get it. It will push more Americans into a pool of already uninsured patients, force rural hospitals to shutter, and increase costs for people on private insurance too,” said Senator Reed.

The so-called “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (H.R. 1), which President Trump signed into law in July, cuts Medicaid by nearly $1 trillion and restricts ACA enrollment. According to the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), Trump’s law is expected strip 10 million people of their health care coverage causing market instability and increasing premiums on even more people with private insurance.

The enhanced premium tax credits have been in place since 2021. Thanks to the ACA, also known as Obamacare, eligible individuals who otherwise couldn't get affordable coverage through their employers may purchase coverage from the marketplace and qualify for the PTC to reduce their monthly premiums.

A report by the Georgetown Center on Health Insurance Reforms, outlines significant premium price increases and coverage loss for millions of Americans fueled by expiring PTCs, President Trump ’ s tariff policies, cuts to health care in the Republicans ’ budget bill and rising health care costs. The report highlights that low- and middle-income Americans who are older and living in rural areas will be disproportionately affected, and that one commonly cited factor driving 2026 rate increases is the looming expiration of PTCs.

“Trump’s law decimates health care access and increases costs for all health consumers. These health insurance spikes for millions of Americans are totally avoidable, but it requires Republicans to agree to put patients ahead of billionaires and special interests. Congress needs to act now before these cuts are locked in and millions of people lose their health coverage and Trump’s policies inflict severe and lasting damage on our public health system. Republicans must join Democrats to help lower health prices, protect Medicaid, and prevent avoidable hospital closures,” said Senator Reed.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/as-trump-seeks-to-install-his-chief-economist-stephen-miran-on-fed-board-reed-warns-feds-loss-of-independence-is-a-serious-threat-to-us-economy,"As Trump Seeks to Install His Chief Economist Stephen Miran on Fed Board, Reed Warns Fed’s Loss of Independence is a Serious Threat to U.S. Economy",2025-09-15,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Jack Reed, a leading member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, urged his Senate colleagues to vote against Dr. Stephen Miran’s nomination to be a Member of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors and warned that President Trump’s assault on the Fed’s independence could have devastating economic consequences for all Americans. Text of Senator Reed’s remarks follow and video is available here:

SEN. REED: Mr. President, I rise in opposition to President Trump’s nomination of Stephen Miran to be a Governor of the Federal Reserve Board.

The Federal Reserve is among the most important economic institutions in the world. Simply put, it is authorized to create money and determine the cost of that money by setting interest rates, all with a goal of achieving maximum employment and stable prices.

When its seven Board members have a degree of protection from political interference, then the Fed is better able to contribute to sound economic policy for the Nation. That’s because they have freedom to make tough decisions that may not be favored by the White House but that are necessary to achieve its dual mandate.

It is unfortunate that Dr. Miran demonstrated at his nomination hearing that he is a political partisan and that he will be President Trump’s man at the Fed.

As if to emphasize the point, Dr. Miran intends to perform this job while “on leave” from his current position as the Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers at the White House. In other words, he will be keeping his job as the President’s chief economic adviser while being able to vote on interest rates.

An architect of Trump’s tariffs -- which have stoked inflation and under which American families and businesses are suffering every single day -- Dr. Miran will now have one foot in the Fed and his other foot in the White House.

Someone with this atrocious track record -- someone who has been a hardcore proponent of Trump’s policies that raise costs on everyday goods, that debase and devalue the dollar, that are based on unconstitutional notions that executive power has no limits -- does not deserve a second job that comes with additional levers to damage the economy.

So I will be voting no on Dr. Miran based on his track record and qualifications.

I will also be voting no because he will be making a mockery of the law by refusing to relinquish his White House job.

The Federal Reserve Act says that “The members of the Board shall devote their entire time to the business of the Board.” This means quite simply that Dr. Miran can have no contact with the White House whatsoever while at the Fed. In other words, there must be very strong firewalls separating Miran’s Fed duties from his White House duties.

Those firewalls will not work for this President, who demands that his advisors serve his own personal interests, who demands total fealty, and who acts as if he is above the law.

Those firewalls will not work for this agency because Trump is obsessed with browbeating the Fed into submission. He routinely demands that the Fed cut rates from 4.25% to 1%. He has tried to intimidate Chair Powell—a Republican whom Trump first appointed…calling him a “loser,” “stupid,” “corrupt,” and “incompetent” because he won’t do exactly what Trump wants.

Traditional firewalls will not work for this nominee. As the President’s chief economist, Dr. Miran will almost certainly pick up the phone if Trump calls. He will be reading Trump’s social media posts. He has every incentive to do Trump's bidding so he can return to his White House job. In the unlikely event that Dr. Miran acts independently, then Trump can oust him from the CEA.

Most troubling, Dr. Miran has testified that he has received advice from White House lawyers blessing this arrangement. This kind of self-certification is dubious at best, but Dr. Miran has failed to produce it. That’s why I joined Ranking Member Warren and several of our Banking Committee colleagues in demanding that Dr. Miran share this analysis. As is typical with this Administration, he did not even respond to our request.

Dr. Miran’s stonewalling can only be read as a concession that this is a corrupt bargain.

Critical questions remain unanswered because of Dr. Miran’s contempt of the Banking Committee, his evasion of our questions, and his refusal to provide details about this fraught proposal to retain his White House job while at the Fed. He must be straightforward and honest about how he intends to do this job. And he must acknowledge the reality that the President will have enormous influence and leverage over him. We must have answers before the Senate votes on his nomination.

I will also be voting no because Dr. Miran has shown exceptionally poor integrity in this confirmation process.

He tweeted in 2023 that no person “on the planet can go from highly political operative to politically neutral just because he or she gets a promotion. That’s just not how human beings work.” He said this during the Biden Administration, when a Fed Governor resigned to become an economic advisor to the President in the White House. Dr. Miran himself now wants to move between the Fed and the White House. Under Dr. Miran’s own standard, he would need to violate the laws of physics to be capable of acting independently.

Just last year, Dr. Miran wrote a 25-page paper proposing an overhaul of the structure and governance of the Fed. In that paper, he wrote that “short-circuiting the revolving door between the Fed and the executive branch is critical to reducing the incentives for officials to act in the short-term political interests of the president.” Yet he is now racing through this revolving door.

He called for specific reforms to shut this revolving door. Those reforms include prohibiting any Governor from returning to the executive branch for four years; removing the “for cause” removal protections for Governors; and the current President voluntarily refraining from removing any incumbent Board members or Reserve Bank leaders during his term.

At his confirmation hearing, Dr. Miran didn’t even try to stand by these proposals. He testified that this “proposal was a package deal. It was a suite of checks and balances, and it’s highly inappropriate to take one check or balance outside the context of the overall package.”

Dr. Miran badly mischaracterized his own work. In his paper, Dr. Miran never said that these proposals as a “package deal” or that they must be implemented in an all-or-nothing manner. To the contrary, he wrote that this “proposal can be implemented in a piecemeal fashion, one policy at a time, if legislatively easier.”

This nominee is asking for the American people’s trust to set the Nation’s credit and monetary policy.

By misleading the Banking Committee, he has demonstrated that he cannot be trusted with that responsibility.

Like so many of this Administration’s nominees, Dr. Miran knew that standing by his previous views would take him out of the running. So he disavowed them to avoid getting crosswise with Trump, who wants to get his man confirmed to the Fed today -- which happens to be the day before the Fed’s next meeting to vote on interest rates.

Trump's former economics advisor Larry Kudlow said the quiet part out loud on a podcast last week. He said, “The bottom line is: Trump is going to take over the Fed.”

Dr. Miran’s appointment is a critical piece of Trump's hostile takeover along with the attempted ouster of Governor Cook and the disgusting attacks on Chair Powell. When the Fed becomes controlled by Trump’s yes-men, it won’t speak with enough authority to achieve its mandate. Inflation will get out of control and higher prices will persist. Rates on credit cards, auto loans, and mortgages will go up. Working Americans will be asked to pay more to finance our Nation’s enormous and growing public debt. This outcome is unacceptable when millions of Americans are struggling to cover increased costs for everyday expenses.

I would like to close by quoting former Republican Senator Pat Toomey from Pennsylvania, who ably served as the Ranking Member of the Banking Committee. In 2021, he spoke against one of President Biden’s nominees to the Federal Reserve and said, “The American people deserve a serious nominee who will serve without a political agenda. It is exceptionally important to keep politics out of monetary policy.”

Applying Senator Toomey’s principles, Dr. Miran has not demonstrated his ability to “serve without a political agenda.” He has not demonstrated that he is a “serious nominee.” And he has not demonstrated that he “will serve without a political agenda.”

Instead, he has demonstrated his loyalty to Trump and thumbed his nose at the Senate. He has already compromised his independence through his plan to hold on to his White House position.

I urge my colleagues to vote against this nominee.

Thank you, Mr. President. I yield the floor.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-trumps-military-strikes-in-the-caribbean,Reed Statement on Trump’s Military Strikes in the Caribbean,2025-09-15,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, after President Trump ordered the U.S. military to attack and destroy a boat in Caribbean for the second time this month, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement condemning the strikes:

“President Trump’s actions are an outrageous violation of the law and a dangerous assault on our Constitution. No president can secretly wage war or carry out unjustified killings – that is authoritarianism, not democracy.

“These reckless, unauthorized operations not only put American lives at risk, they threaten to ignite a war with Venezuela that would drag our nation into a conflict we did not choose. The American people deserve to know what is being done in their name and why. Congress must demand answers, force transparency, and hold this administration accountable before it plunges us into another needless war.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-cassidy-lead-bipartisan-colleagues-in-designating-september-as-national-literacy-month,"Reed, Cassidy Lead Bipartisan Colleagues in Designating September as “National Literacy Month”",2025-09-12,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to raise awareness about the importance of literacy, boost literacy support programs, and encourage more Americans of all ages to read, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) are teaming up on a bipartisan resolution to designate September 2025 as “National Literacy Month.”

The measure is being cosponsored by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), John Cornyn (R-TX), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Jim Justice (R-WV), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Katie Britt (R-AL), Angus King (I-ME), James Lankford (R-OK), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).

“Reading unlocks opportunity and strengthening literacy for Americans of all ages will help us build a stronger society. We need to do a better job of reaching learners where they are and not letting them slip through the cracks,” said Senator Reed. “I’m proud to work with Senator Cassidy and our colleagues to introduce this important resolution that amplifies the need for more effective literacy instruction for students of all ages.”

“The NAEP scores show our K-12 system is failing on literacy. If students do not learn to read, they cannot succeed in school or compete in the workforce. Children and families deserve better,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This resolution highlights the urgency to improve literacy nationwide so children have a chance at a better future.”

Reading is a cornerstone for personal growth, economic opportunity, and a strong society. Reading proficiency by third grade is one of the most important predictors of whether a student will graduate high school and succeed in a career, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

According to a 2020 study by Gallup in partnership with the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy, it is estimated that low levels of adult literacy could be costing America as much as $2.2 trillion a year.

In recognition of National Literacy Month, throughout the month of September, schools, libraries, non-profits, and other organizations will host a variety of activities, events, and free workshops highlighting the importance of building and strengthening literacy skills and the benefits of reading on healthy development.

Supporters of the resolution include the National Parents Union, Ed Trust, and Educators for Excellence.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/ri-delegation-announces-8m-for-new-mental-health-facility-for-children-at-bradley-hospital,RI Delegation Announces $8M for New Mental Health Facility for Children at Bradley Hospital,2025-09-12,2025,2025-09,Democrat,Senate,RI,Jack Reed,R000122,www.reed.senate.gov,jackreed,https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases,scraper,"EAST PROVIDENCE, RI – In an effort to help Bradley Hospital provide cutting-edge research and state-of-the-art facilities to support children dealing with mental health disorders, Rhode Island’s Congressional Delegation today announced a new $7,940,991 federal grant for Bradley Hospital to advance the construction of a pediatric psychiatric research laboratory, to be co-located on Bradley’s hospital campus in East Providence.

Bradley Hospital is an affiliate of Brown University and is nationally recognized for the quality of its adolescent and child psychiatry programs. Bradley offers families and children access to mental health screening, diagnostics, and a full array of evidence-based therapeutic services to appropriately address pediatric mental and behavioral health needs.

U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo said the new federal funding, which is administered by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), will help build a state-of-the-art facility to enhance pediatric psychiatric research and centralize services in one convenient, modern facility.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), many mental disorders can begin in childhood. Examples include anxiety disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression and other mood disorders, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Early treatment can help children manage their symptoms and support their social and emotional well-being.

Nearly 1 in 5 children ages 3 to 17 had ever been diagnosed with a mental, emotional, or behavioral health condition, according to NIMH’s latest statistics.

“Bradley’s new facility will provide Rhode Islanders with high-quality mental health care and help conduct innovative research initiatives that will enhance treatment and prevention efforts. This federal grant is a major boost to help advance the project and better serve the community, especially our youngest patients in need of mental health services,” said Senator Jack Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee.

“We have a children’s mental health crisis in this country, and too many Rhode Island kids are struggling with conditions that have been under-researched and misunderstood,” said Senator Sheldon Whitehouse. “This new federal investment will centralize Bradley Hospital’s innovative researchers at a new top-of-the-line facility that will help more Rhode Island children in need of mental and behavioral health care.”

“Too many young people are struggling with mental health challenges, and it is critical that they have access to the high-quality care and support they deserve,” said Congressman Seth Magaziner. “I am proud to join my colleagues in the Rhode Island congressional delegation to announce funding that will help Bradley Hospital continue its leadership in children’s mental health research and treatment, bringing new tools and better care to Rhode Islanders.”

“Mental health care is essential and Bradley's new facility will ensure young Rhode Islanders will have access to the services they need to thrive,” said Congressman Gabe Amo. “I'm proud to have worked alongside my colleagues in our Congressional delegation to secure this federal grant and expand mental health care access and research for Rhode Island's children.”

“Without a dedicated space on campus, Bradley Hospital’s research laboratories are scattered across multiple locations, limiting collaboration and distancing scientists from the very patients who stand to benefit most from their work. A unified facility would not only provide the appropriate space for advanced research and equipment but also bring researchers closer to their patients—accelerating discoveries, improving outcomes, and fostering vital collaboration across core labs. This proposed center would significantly enhance Bradley Hospital’s capacity to address the urgent and evolving challenges in youth and adolescent psychiatry and behavioral health,” said Dr. Henry Sachs III, President, Bradley Hospital.

The NIH research facilities construction grant will allow Bradley Hospital to move forward with the multi-phase plans to construct a pediatric psychiatric research laboratory.

Bradley Hospital is the nation’s first psychiatric hospital dedicated to children and adolescents. Located in East Providence, it serves youth and families across Rhode Island and New England.

Bradley Hospital is a teaching hospital for The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and currently hosts an NIH COBRE Center for Sleep and Circadian Rhythms in Child and Adolescent Mental Health; its world-class researchers are also engaged on over 20 other NIH-funded research projects, including Bradley Hospital’s Pediatric Anxiety Research Center (PARC), which has relocated its clinical and research services to the hospital’s main campus.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z