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.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-statement-on-administrations-decision-to-bypass-congressional-arms-sale-approval,Van Hollen Statement on Administration’s Decision to Bypass Congressional Arms Sale Approval,2023-12-30,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"News Alert: Share how President Trump’s Executive Orders are impacting you or your family News Alert: Share how President Trump’s Executive Orders are impacting y...",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases/maryland-delegation-members-announce-over-240-million-clean-water,Maryland Delegation Members Announce Over $240 Million for Clean Water Infrastructure Across Maryland,2023-12-22,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Glenn Ivey,I000058,ivey.house.gov,ivey,https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $240,451,000 to modernize clean water infrastructure across Maryland. The federal funding, provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program, will support the Maryland Department of the Environment’s efforts to provide low- or no-interest loans for critical water infrastructure projects, helping communities across the state maintain access to clean water. Most of the funding – $211,862,000 – comes from the once-in-a-generation Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which the lawmakers and the Biden-Harris Administration fought to enact to deliver historic federal investments in the country’s water infrastructure. This funding will supplement the $28,589,000 in federal funding appropriated to Maryland's Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs) that the lawmakers secured through annual appropriations for fiscal year 2023. “Modernizing our water infrastructure is a critical public health priority. That’s one of the reasons why we fought to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act – to advance our progress in communities across our state and improve their access to clean and safe drinking water. With these funds, we’re delivering on that objective for Marylanders,” said the lawmakers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mfume-maryland-delegation-members-announce-over-240-million-for-clean-water-infrastructure-across-maryland,"Congressman Mfume, Maryland Delegation Members Announce Over $240 Million for Clean Water Infrastructure Across Maryland",2023-12-22,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Kweisi Mfume,M000687,mfume.house.gov,mfume,https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Jamie Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $240,451,000 to modernize clean water infrastructure across Maryland. The federal funding, provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program, will support the Maryland Department of the Environment’s efforts to provide low- or no-interest loans for critical water infrastructure projects, helping communities across the state maintain access to clean water. Most of the funding – $211,862,000 – comes from the once-in-a-generation Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which the lawmakers and the Biden-Harris Administration fought to enact to deliver historic federal investments in the country’s water infrastructure. This funding will supplement the $28,589,000 in federal funding appropriated to Maryland's Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs) that the lawmakers secured through annual appropriations for fiscal year 2023. “Modernizing our water infrastructure is a critical public health priority. That’s one of the reasons why we fought to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act – to advance our progress in communities across our state and improve their access to clean and safe drinking water. With these funds, we’re delivering on that objective for Marylanders,” said the lawmakers. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provides more than $50 billion to EPA over five years to improve the nation’s drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure – the single largest investment in water that the federal government has ever made.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/12/maryland-delegation-members-announce-over-240-million-for-clean-water-infrastructure-across-maryland,Maryland Delegation Members Announce Over $240 Million for Clean Water Infrastructure Across Maryland,2023-12-22,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $240,451,000 to modernize clean water infrastructure across Maryland. The federal funding, provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program, will support the Maryland Department of the Environment’s efforts to provide low- or no-interest loans for critical water infrastructure projects, helping communities across the state maintain access to clean water. Most of the funding – $211,862,000 – comes from the once-in-a-generation Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which the lawmakers and the Biden-Harris Administration fought to enact to deliver historic federal investments in the country’s water infrastructure. This funding will supplement the $28,589,000 in federal funding appropriated to Maryland's Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs) that the lawmakers secured through annual appropriations for fiscal year 2023. “Modernizing our water infrastructure is a critical public health priority. That’s one of the reasons why we fought to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act – to advance our progress in communities across our state and improve their access to clean and safe drinking water. With these funds, we’re delivering on that objective for Marylanders,” said the lawmakers. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provides more than $50 billion to EPA over five years to improve the nation’s drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure – the single largest investment in water that the federal government has ever made. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/12/rep-raskin-applauds-new-treasury-guidance-promoting-clean-hydrogen-production,Rep. Raskin Applauds New Treasury Guidance Promoting Clean Hydrogen Production,2023-12-22,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC—Today, the U.S. Treasury Department released proposed regulations on the Clean Hydrogen Production Credit established in the Inflation Reduction Act. The proposed guidance answers calls from Reps. Jamie Raskin (MD-08) and Don Beyer (VA-08) along with 44 House Democrats, environmental groups, consumer advocates, and renewable energy companies who have emphasized the need to ensure hydrogen fuel is produced from clean energy sources. “Hydrogen offers us a promising clean energy solution, but only if it is produced from renewable energy, rather than dirty fossil fuels—and in today’s Treasury guidance, the Biden Administration has demonstrated its strong commitment to positive hydrogen solutions and a clean energy transition,” said Rep. Raskin. “Creating a truly clean hydrogen industry that supports our climate goals depends on us getting things right today. I look forward to seeing a final rule that retains these strong climate standards.” Notably, the new proposed guidance adopts the three pillars of clean hydrogen production that Reps. Raskin, Beyer and their colleagues expressed support for in their recent letter to the Treasury Department, with provisions prioritizing additionality, deliverability and hourly time-based matching. These three pillars ensure that hydrogen is generated using new, “additional,” renewable energy sources, not just the limited renewables currently supplying our power grid, that power generated by clean energy reaches hydrogen production projects, and that hydrogen will be produced during the same hours that the clean electricity is being generated. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/maryland-delegation-members-announce-over-240-million-for-clean-water-infrastructure-across-maryland,Maryland Delegation Members Announce Over $240 Million for Clean Water Infrastructure Across Maryland,2023-12-22,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $240,451,000 to modernize clean water infrastructure across Maryland. The federal funding, provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program, will support the Maryland Department of the Environment’s efforts to provide low- or no-interest loans for critical water infrastructure projects, helping communities across the state maintain access to clean water. Most of the funding – $211,862,000 – comes from the once-in-a-generation Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which the lawmakers and the Biden-Harris Administration fought to enact to deliver historic federal investments in the country’s water infrastructure. This funding will supplement the $28,589,000 in federal funding appropriated to Maryland's Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs) that the lawmakers secured through annual appropriations for fiscal year 2023. “Modernizing our water infrastructure is a critical public health priority. That’s one of the reasons why we fought to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act – to advance our progress in communities across our state and improve their access to clean and safe drinking water. With these funds, we’re delivering on that objective for Marylanders,” said the lawmakers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases/maryland-delegation-members-announce-more-25-million-improve-road-safety,Maryland Delegation Members Announce More Than $25 Million to Improve Road Safety Across Maryland,2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Glenn Ivey,I000058,ivey.house.gov,ivey,https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $28,505,333 to improve road safety in communities across Maryland. The federal funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program, will help local departments of transportation across the state develop and implement safety action plans and structural improvements to better accommodate and ensure the safety of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians on roadways. The Safe Streets and Roads for All program will help to save lives on roadways across the country, supporting many local governments’ existing “Vision Zero” plans, which aim to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries on roadways. The SS4A program was established and funded at $5 billion over five years by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, legislation the lawmakers worked to pass to support infrastructure initiatives across the country. “Too often, aging infrastructure contributes to accidents that cause serious injuries and even death for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. These funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which we fought to pass, will upgrade our roads, make them safer for our communities, and shorten commute times for the millions of hardworking Marylanders who depend on public infrastructure every day. They will enable our local partners to improve safety and accessibility on roadways across our state,” said the lawmakers. The federal funds were awarded as follows: Greater Baltimore Region $9,920,000 to the Baltimore City Department of Transportation to pilot a Complete Streets project, which will reduce dangerous accidents by making city roadways more accessible through temporary lane and street closure events for cyclists and pedestrians as well as sensors that will help plan improvements at the city’s most high-volume intersections; $3,648,000 to Baltimore County to conduct planning activities, including road safety audits for corridors throughout the county; Prince George’s County $9,764,000 to Mount Rainer to implement its Vision Zero plan. $768,000 to the Towns of Riverdale Park and Edmonston to develop a Complete Streets plan; $160,000 to the Town of Brentwood to create a Vision Zero plan to eliminate traffic fatalities and to improve bicycle accessibility through road improvements; Montgomery County $360,000 to the City of Gaithersburg to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; $320,000 to the City of Rockville to create a Vision Zero plan and to improve bicycle accessibility through road improvements and conduct safety audits; $160,000 to Montgomery County to conduct supplemental planning efforts to review Vision Zero activities and evaluate progress; $120,000 to Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC) to conduct planning activities throughout Montgomery County; Anne Arundel and Howard Counties $683,200 to the City of Annapolis in Anne Arundel County to update its existing Vision Zero Plan; $488,133 to Howard County to test safety approaches on the US 1 corridor, a 12-mile stretch of roadway with safety challenges; Eastern Shore $320,000 to the City of Cambridge in Dorchester County to create a Vision Zero plan and to improve bicycle accessibility through road improvements; $280,000 to Queen Anne's County to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; $64,000 to the Town of Rising Sun in Cecil County to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; Western Maryland $1,050,000 to Frederick County to plan road improvements to eliminate traffic fatalities and improve bicycle accessibility; $240,000 to Brunswick to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; and $160,000 to the Town of Sykesville to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mfume-maryland-delegation-members-announce-more-than-25-million-to-improve-road-safety-across-maryland,"Congressman Mfume, Maryland Delegation Members Announce More Than $25 Million to Improve Road Safety Across Maryland",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Kweisi Mfume,M000687,mfume.house.gov,mfume,https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Jamie Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $28,505,333 to improve road safety in communities across Maryland. The federal funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program, will help local departments of transportation across the state develop and implement safety action plans and structural improvements to better accommodate and ensure the safety of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians on roadways. The Safe Streets and Roads for All program will help to save lives on roadways across the country, supporting many local governments’ existing “Vision Zero” plans, which aim to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries on roadways. The SS4A program was established and funded at $5 billion over five years by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, legislation the lawmakers worked to pass to support infrastructure initiatives across the country. “Too often, aging infrastructure contributes to accidents that cause serious injuries and even death for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. These funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which we fought to pass, will upgrade our roads, make them safer for our communities, and shorten commute times for the millions of hardworking Marylanders who depend on public infrastructure every day. They will enable our local partners to improve safety and accessibility on roadways across our state,” said the lawmakers. The federal funds were awarded as follows: Greater Baltimore Region $9,920,000 to the Baltimore City Department of Transportation to pilot a Complete Streets project, which will reduce dangerous accidents by making city roadways more accessible through temporary lane and street closure events for cyclists and pedestrians as well as sensors that will help plan improvements at the city’s most high-volume intersections; $3,648,000 to Baltimore County to conduct planning activities, including road safety audits for corridors throughout the county; Prince George’s County $9,764,000 to Mount Rainer to implement its Vision Zero plan. $768,000 to the Towns of Riverdale Park and Edmonston to develop a Complete Streets plan; $160,000 to the Town of Brentwood to create a Vision Zero plan to eliminate traffic fatalities and to improve bicycle accessibility through road improvements; Montgomery County $360,000 to the City of Gaithersburg to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; $320,000 to the City of Rockville to create a Vision Zero plan and to improve bicycle accessibility through road improvements and conduct safety audits; $160,000 to Montgomery Countyto conduct supplemental planning efforts to review Vision Zero activities and evaluate progress; $120,000 to Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC) to conduct planning activities throughout Montgomery County; Anne Arundel and Howard Counties $683,200 to the City of Annapolis in Anne Arundel Countyto update its existing Vision Zero Plan; $488,133 to Howard County to test safety approaches on the US 1 corridor, a 12-mile stretch of roadway with safety challenges; Eastern Shore $320,000 to the City of Cambridge in Dorchester County to create a Vision Zero plan and to improve bicycle accessibility through road improvements; $280,000 to Queen Anne's County to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; $64,000 to the Town of Rising Sun in Cecil County to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; Western Maryland $1,050,000 to Frederick County to plan road improvements to eliminate traffic fatalities and improve bicycle accessibility; $240,000 to Brunswick to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; and $160,000 to the Town of Sykesville to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan. The Safer Streets and Roads for All program was established to support regional and local efforts to prevent roadway deaths through planning and demonstration projects that help local governments better understand the safety challenges in their communities and implement solutions to make their streets, roads, and highways safer for all. In fiscal year 2022, the SS4A program delivered over $1.5 million to safety action plan projects in Maryland.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/12/maryland-delegation-members-announce-more-than-25-million-to-improve-road-safety-across-maryland,Maryland Delegation Members Announce More Than $25 Million to Improve Road Safety Across Maryland,2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $28,505,333 to improve road safety in communities across Maryland. The federal funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program, will help local departments of transportation across the state develop and implement safety action plans and structural improvements to better accommodate and ensure the safety of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians on roadways. The Safe Streets and Roads for All program will help to save lives on roadways across the country, supporting many local governments’ existing “Vision Zero” plans, which aim to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries on roadways. The SS4A program was established and funded at $5 billion over five years by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, legislation the lawmakers worked to pass to support infrastructure initiatives across the country. “Too often, aging infrastructure contributes to accidents that cause serious injuries and even death for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. These funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which we fought to pass, will upgrade our roads, make them safer for our communities, and shorten commute times for the millions of hardworking Marylanders who depend on public infrastructure every day. They will enable our local partners to improve safety and accessibility on roadways across our state,” said the lawmakers. The federal funds were awarded as follows: Greater Baltimore Region $9,920,000 to the Baltimore City Department of Transportation to pilot a Complete Streets project, which will reduce dangerous accidents by making city roadways more accessible through temporary lane and street closure events for cyclists and pedestrians as well as sensors that will help plan improvements at the city’s most high-volume intersections; $3,648,000 to Baltimore County to conduct planning activities, including road safety audits for corridors throughout the county; Prince George’s County $9,764,000 to Mount Rainer to implement its Vision Zero plan. $768,000 to the Towns of Riverdale Park and Edmonston to develop a Complete Streets plan; $160,000 to the Town of Brentwood to create a Vision Zero plan to eliminate traffic fatalities and to improve bicycle accessibility through road improvements; Montgomery County $360,000 to the City of Gaithersburg to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; $320,000 to the City of Rockville to create a Vision Zero plan and to improve bicycle accessibility through road improvements and conduct safety audits; $160,000 to Montgomery County to conduct supplemental planning efforts to review Vision Zero activities and evaluate progress; $120,000 to Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC) to conduct planning activities throughout Montgomery County; Anne Arundel and Howard Counties $683,200 to the City of Annapolis in Anne Arundel County to update its existing Vision Zero Plan; $488,133 to Howard County to test safety approaches on the US 1 corridor, a 12-mile stretch of roadway with safety challenges; Eastern Shore $320,000 to the City of Cambridge in Dorchester County to create a Vision Zero plan and to improve bicycle accessibility through road improvements; $280,000 to Queen Anne's County to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; $64,000 to the Town of Rising Sun in Cecil County to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; Western Maryland $1,050,000 to Frederick County to plan road improvements to eliminate traffic fatalities and improve bicycle accessibility; $240,000 to Brunswick to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; and $160,000 to the Town of Sykesville to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan. The Safer Streets and Roads for All program was established to support regional and local efforts to prevent roadway deaths through planning and demonstration projects that help local governments better understand the safety challenges in their communities and implement solutions to make their streets, roads, and highways safer for all. In fiscal year 2022, the SS4A program delivered over $1.5 million to safety action plan projects in Maryland. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/maryland-delegation-members-announce-more-than-25-million-to-improve-road-safety-across-maryland,Maryland Delegation Members Announce More Than $25 Million to Improve Road Safety Across Maryland,2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $28,505,333 to improve road safety in communities across Maryland. The federal funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program, will help local departments of transportation across the state develop and implement safety action plans and structural improvements to better accommodate and ensure the safety of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians on roadways. The Safe Streets and Roads for All program will help to save lives on roadways across the country, supporting many local governments’ existing “Vision Zero” plans, which aim to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries on roadways. The SS4A program was established and funded at $5 billion over five years by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, legislation the lawmakers worked to pass to support infrastructure initiatives across the country. “Too often, aging infrastructure contributes to accidents that cause serious injuries and even death for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. These funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which we fought to pass, will upgrade our roads, make them safer for our communities, and shorten commute times for the millions of hardworking Marylanders who depend on public infrastructure every day. They will enable our local partners to improve safety and accessibility on roadways across our state,” said the lawmakers. The federal funds were awarded as follows: Greater Baltimore Region $9,920,000 to the Baltimore City Department of Transportation to pilot a Complete Streets project, which will reduce dangerous accidents by making city roadways more accessible through temporary lane and street closure events for cyclists and pedestrians as well as sensors that will help plan improvements at the city’s most high-volume intersections; $3,648,000 to Baltimore County to conduct planning activities, including road safety audits for corridors throughout the county; Prince George’s County $9,764,000 to Mount Rainer to implement its Vision Zero plan. $768,000 to the Towns of Riverdale Park and Edmonston to develop a Complete Streets plan; $160,000 to the Town of Brentwood to create a Vision Zero plan to eliminate traffic fatalities and to improve bicycle accessibility through road improvements; Montgomery County $360,000 to the City of Gaithersburg to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; $320,000 to the City of Rockville to create a Vision Zero plan and to improve bicycle accessibility through road improvements and conduct safety audits; $160,000 to Montgomery County to conduct supplemental planning efforts to review Vision Zero activities and evaluate progress; $120,000 to Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC) to conduct planning activities throughout Montgomery County; Anne Arundel and Howard Counties $683,200 to the City of Annapolis in Anne Arundel County to update its existing Vision Zero Plan; $488,133 to Howard County to test safety approaches on the US 1 corridor, a 12-mile stretch of roadway with safety challenges; Eastern Shore $320,000 to the City of Cambridge in Dorchester County to create a Vision Zero plan and to improve bicycle accessibility through road improvements; $280,000 to Queen Anne's County to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; $64,000 to the Town of Rising Sun in Cecil County to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; Western Maryland $1,050,000 to Frederick County to plan road improvements to eliminate traffic fatalities and improve bicycle accessibility; $240,000 to Brunswick to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; and $160,000 to the Town of Sykesville to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan. The Safer Streets and Roads for All program was established to support regional and local efforts to prevent roadway deaths through planning and demonstration projects that help local governments better understand the safety challenges in their communities and implement solutions to make their streets, roads, and highways safer for all. In fiscal year 2022, the SS4A program delivered over $1.5 million to safety action plan projects in Maryland.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases/mfume-van-hollen-cardin-announce-50-million-inflation-reduction-act-investment-for-baltimore-s-green-healthy-homes-initiative-to-fund-environmental-justice-projects-across-the-mid-atlantic,"Mfume, Van Hollen, Cardin Announce $50 Million Inflation Reduction Act Investment for Baltimore’s Green & Healthy Homes Initiative to Fund Environmental Justice Projects Across the Mid-Atlantic",2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Kweisi Mfume,M000687,mfume.house.gov,mfume,https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (all D-Md.) joined the Biden-Harris Administration in announcing Baltimore-based Green & Healthy Homes Initiative (GHHI) has been selected to serve as one of 11 regional grantmakers and will receive $50 million under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program that was created by the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest investment in climate action in history. These funds come from the $3 billion that the EPA received through the Inflation Reduction Act to award grants and fund related technical assistance to benefit disadvantaged communities. This new grant program, which will make it easier for small community-based organizations to access federal environmental justice funding, responds to community feedback about the need to reduce barriers to federal funds and improve the efficiency of the awards process to ensure communities that have long faced underinvestment can access the benefits of this historic funding. Communities will be able to apply to GHHI for a subgrant to fund a range of different environmental project activities, including small local clean ups, local emergency preparedness and disaster resiliency programs, environmental workforce development programs for local jobs reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fenceline air quality and asthma related projects, healthy homes programs, and projects addressing illegal dumping. “The COVID-19 pandemic shined a bright light on many of the structural disparities we face in America. The Biden-Harris Administration and Maryland Congressional Delegation acknowledged these disparities and committed to addressing them as we led the country through the pandemic with congressional action. The $50 million environmental justice grant announced today is an example of our work to make every American community healthier and better,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. “I’ve worked with the Green & Healthy Homes Initiative and its predecessor for decades, so I know this money will be used fairly to help our neighbors with the most need,” he added. “Through the Inflation Reduction Act, we took historic action to ensure that all communities can participate in the clean energy revolution, lower energy costs, and improve health outcomes. Green & Healthy Homes has already been a vital partner in advancing that work in Baltimore, and with this major investment, we know GHHI will make an even greater impact on our path to progress for environmental justice, energy savings, and economic opportunity,” said Senator Van Hollen. “In Maryland, we are working at every level of government to take decisive action to address climate change and protect Black, Brown, Indigenous and other vulnerable communities that are disproportionately burdened by the impacts of climate change. These federal funds will provide targeted resources to communities that are most impacted by climate change but less equipped to adapt to it,” said Senator Cardin. “The new program acknowledges that smaller, resource-strained community-based organizations have historically faced barriers in accessing federal environmental justice funding. This is a historic investment in community-based projects working towards environmental justice and supports a healthier, more equitable Maryland.” “For years, community advocates have been calling for federal support and resources to help address our country’s most pressing environmental justice concerns,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Thanks to President Biden and Vice President Harris’ leadership, we’re responding to these calls by removing barriers that have traditionally held communities and applicants back from accessing these historic investments in America. Together, in partnership with these Grantmakers, we are taking a giant step toward a future where every person in America has equal opportunity to breathe clean air, drink clean water, and live a healthy, productive life.” “This program will invest tens of millions of dollars into underserved communities in the Mid-Atlantic Region, helping people that have typically been on the outside looking in. The projects that come out of this program will clean up communities, revitalize neighborhoods, and create a strong and vibrant workforce,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “We are honored to be selected by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to lead Region 3’s Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program. GHHI brings to this Program our deeply rooted commitment to and understanding of the value of building community-based capacity to address and reverse the effects of historic disinvestment in environmental justice communities,” said Ruth Ann Norton, President and CEO of GHHI. “We applaud the EPA for its thoughtful commitment to understanding the need for deep capacity building support. The work to address environmental justice issues reflects our own understanding as a nation that every American deserves the opportunity to live in healthy and climate resilient communities.” As a grantmaker, GHHI plans to use a strong participatory governance framework to build capacity in underserved areas. GHHI recognizes the need to reach diverse audiences using wide-ranging delivery methods and partners to leverage best practices in outreach and implementation. Moreover, GHHI will engage the community through a stakeholder advisory board, partnerships, and mechanisms for providing direct feedback to adapt frequently to the needs of communities, particularly those from disadvantaged or underserved areas. The organizationwill work in collaboration with EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights to issue subgrants to community-based nonprofit organizations and other eligible organizations representing disadvantaged communities. Grantmakers are expected to begin opening competitions and awarding subgrants by summer 2024. Community-based nonprofit organizations and other eligible organizations seeking subgrant funding will be able to apply for subgrants through three concurrent tiers offered by the Grantmakers. Tier One will consist of grants for $150,000 for assessment, Tier Two will consist of grants for $250,000 for planning, and Tier Three will consist of grants for $350,000 for project development. In addition, $75,000 will be available for capacity-constrained community-based organizations through a noncompetitive process during Tier One. Each Grantmaker will design and implement a distribution program best suited for their region and communities. The Grantmakers program is part of the Federal Interagency Thriving Communities Network and delivers on the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative which set the goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. Grantmakers will work in collaboration with the Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers (EJ TCTACs) to create a robust support network to assist eligible entities when applying.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-mfume-announce-50-million-inflation-reduction-act-investment-for-baltimores-green-and-healthy-homes-initiative-to-fund-environmental-justice-projects-across-the-mid-atlantic,"Van Hollen, Cardin, Mfume Announce $50 Million Inflation Reduction Act Investment for Baltimore’s Green & Healthy Homes Initiative to Fund Environmental Justice Projects Across the Mid-Atlantic",2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressman Kweisi Mfume (all D-Md.) joined the Biden-Harris Administration in announcing Baltimore-based Green & Healthy Homes Initiative (GHHI) has been selected to serve as one of 11 regional grantmakers and will receive $50 million under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program that was created by the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest investment in climate action in history. These funds come from the $3 billion that the EPA received through the Inflation Reduction Act to award grants and fund related technical assistance to benefit disadvantaged communities. This new grant program, which will make it easier for small community-based organizations to access federal environmental justice funding, responds to community feedback about the need to reduce barriers to federal funds and improve the efficiency of the awards process to ensure communities that have long faced underinvestment can access the benefits of this historic funding. Communities will be able to apply to GHHI for a subgrant to fund a range of different environmental project activities, including small local clean ups, local emergency preparedness and disaster resiliency programs, environmental workforce development programs for local jobs reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fenceline air quality and asthma related projects, healthy homes programs, and projects addressing illegal dumping. “Through the Inflation Reduction Act, we took historic action to ensure that all communities can participate in the clean energy revolution, lower energy costs, and improve health outcomes. Green & Healthy Homes has already been a vital partner in advancing that work in Baltimore, and with this major investment, we know GHHI will make an even greater impact on our path to progress for environmental justice, energy savings, and economic opportunity,” said Senator Van Hollen. “In Maryland, we are working at every level of government to take decisive action to address climate change and protect Black, Brown, Indigenous and other vulnerable communities that are disproportionately burdened by the impacts of climate change. These federal funds will provide targeted resources to communities that are most impacted by climate change but less equipped to adapt to it,” said Senator Cardin. “The new program acknowledges that smaller, resource-strained community-based organizations have historically faced barriers in accessing federal environmental justice funding. This is a historic investment in community-based projects working towards environmental justice and supports a healthier, more equitable Maryland.” “The COVID-19 pandemic shined a bright light on many of the structural disparities we face in America. The Biden-Harris Administration and Maryland Congressional Delegation acknowledged these disparities and committed to addressing them as we led the country through the pandemic with congressional action. The $50 million environmental justice grant announced today is an example of our work to make every American community healthier and better,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. “I’ve worked with the Green & Healthy Homes Initiative and its predecessor for decades, so I know this money will be used fairly to help our neighbors with the most need,” he added. “For years, community advocates have been calling for federal support and resources to help address our country’s most pressing environmental justice concerns,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Thanks to President Biden and Vice President Harris’ leadership, we’re responding to these calls by removing barriers that have traditionally held communities and applicants back from accessing these historic investments in America. Together, in partnership with these Grantmakers, we are taking a giant step toward a future where every person in America has equal opportunity to breathe clean air, drink clean water, and live a healthy, productive life.” “This program will invest tens of millions of dollars into underserved communities in the Mid-Atlantic Region, helping people that have typically been on the outside looking in. The projects that come out of this program will clean up communities, revitalize neighborhoods, and create a strong and vibrant workforce,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “We are honored to be selected by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to lead Region 3’s Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program. GHHI brings to this Program our deeply rooted commitment to and understanding of the value of building community-based capacity to address and reverse the effects of historic disinvestment in environmental justice communities,” said Ruth Ann Norton, President and CEO of GHHI. “We applaud the EPA for its thoughtful commitment to understanding the need for deep capacity building support. The work to address environmental justice issues reflects our own understanding as a nation that every American deserves the opportunity to live in healthy and climate resilient communities.” As a grantmaker, GHHI plans to use a strong participatory governance framework to build capacity in underserved areas. GHHI recognizes the need to reach diverse audiences using wide-ranging delivery methods and partners to leverage best practices in outreach and implementation. Moreover, GHHI will engage the community through a stakeholder advisory board, partnerships, and mechanisms for providing direct feedback to adapt frequently to the needs of communities, particularly those from disadvantaged or underserved areas. The organization will work in collaboration with EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights to issue subgrants to community-based nonprofit organizations and other eligible organizations representing disadvantaged communities. Grantmakers are expected to begin opening competitions and awarding subgrants by summer 2024. Community-based nonprofit organizations and other eligible organizations seeking subgrant funding will be able to apply for subgrants through three concurrent tiers offered by the Grantmakers. Tier One will consist of grants for $150,000 for assessment, Tier Two will consist of grants for $250,000 for planning, and Tier Three will consist of grants for $350,000 for project development. In addition, $75,000 will be available for capacity-constrained community-based organizations through a noncompetitive process during Tier One. Each Grantmaker will design and implement a distribution program best suited for their region and communities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-kaine-marshall-colleagues-in-bipartisan-push-to-lower-prescription-drug-costs,"Van Hollen Joins Kaine, Marshall, Colleagues in Bipartisan Push to Lower Prescription Drug Costs",2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, led a bipartisan group of their colleagues in a letter urging the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Labor (DOL), and the Department of the Treasury to lower out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs by enforcing a rule limiting the use of harmful “copay accumulators.” Copay accumulators prevent copay assistance from counting towards a patient’s deductible or out-of-pocket maximum, which makes it harder for patients to afford their medications. Regarding a recent court ruling limiting the use of copay accumulators, the members said, “This decision is an important step in the right direction for low-income and other eligible patients who rely on manufacturer and nonprofit copay assistance programs to alleviate affordability and access challenges for their medicines.” The lawmakers wrote, “Instead of appealing the court’s ruling, we urge you to adopt policies from the 2020 NBPP [Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters] that strike the right balance of preserving a plan’s ability to control costs while also putting the patient first.” In the letter, the senators also push for their Help Ensure Lower Patient (HELP) Copays Act to permanently prohibit the use of copay accumulators and require health plans and Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) to count the value of copay assistance towards a patient’s deductible or out-of-pocket maximum. In addition Senator Van Hollen, the letter led by Senators Kaine and Marshall, is signed by Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), and Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.). Full text of the letter is available here and below: Dear Secretary Becerra, Acting Secretary Su, and Secretary Yellen: We are writing in support of the recent decision from the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia that vacated the 2021 Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters (NBPP) Final Rule provision that permitted the use of copay accumulator adjustment programs (AAPs) and remanded to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to interpret the definition of “cost-sharing.” This decision is an important step in the right direction for low-income and other eligible patients who rely on manufacturer and nonprofit copay assistance programs to alleviate affordability and access challenges for their medicines. We are disappointed in HHS’s decision to file a notice of appeal of the decision and HHS’s articulated intention to not take any enforcement action against health insurance issuers or health plans that fail to count copay assistance toward the patient’s maximum annual limitation on cost-sharing. Instead of appealing the court’s ruling, we urge you to adopt policies from the 2020 NBPP that strike the right balance of preserving a plan’s ability to control costs while also putting the patient first. Patient assistance programs (PAPs) help low-income and vulnerable patients with complex conditions access life-saving medicine. Historically, these copay assistance programs counted toward the annual limitation on cost-sharing, and the policy was reaffirmed under the Affordable Care Act. The patient protection on cost-sharing provided patients and families with greater predictability and certainty about their maximum out-of-pocket exposure on an annual basis. It also helped improve patient adherence to their medication and overall health outcomes. For example, one study showed that reduced cost-sharing for cardiovascular medicines increased adherence and had a greater impact on reducing the risk of vascular events and medical costs among non-white patients. In recent years, health plans, pharmacy benefit managers, and third-party administrators have used AAPs to help to control costs. However, like cost utilization management, AAPs can be used as a profit-seeking tactic. When HHS published the 2021 NBPP final rule, it permitted group health plans and health insurance issuers to use AAPs without limitation. The Administration believed this “open door” would not necessarily lead to an increased uptake of AAPs by PBMs, but they were wrong. These programs proliferated in the intervening years. Nearly two-thirds of individual health plans available on the ACA marketplace included AAPs. It was also estimated that of all commercial markets in 2021, 43% of covered lives were in commercial health plans that had implemented AAPs. As a result of this policy change, patients in our home states suffered, facing financial hardship and barriers to their once-accessible life-saving medicine. In many cases, patients or their family members found out about the AAP not counting their assistance at the pharmacy counter. They were left embarrassed, anxious, and without recourse. A recent survey showed that between 25- 36% of respondents discontinued therapy when they received an unexpected high charge of over $1,500 during the plan year as a result of AAPs. For many chronic disease patients, discontinuation of therapy can lead to irreversible and in some cases life-threatening health consequences. Further, six in 10 said they would have extreme difficulty affording their treatments without copay assistance programs being applied to their cost-sharing. Moreover, recent research has shown that non-white patients are 31% more likely to be exposed to an AAP than white patients. It was for these reasons, and more, that patient groups took action against the 2021 NBPP. Patients were not the only stakeholder to respond. State regulators have passed and are in the process of passing legislation. To date, 19 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico have banned or limited the use of AAPs. As you consider next steps, we strongly encourage you to support patients by reconsidering your appeal of the court’s ruling and instead adopting the 2020 NBPP policy. It required plans to count manufacturer copay assistance toward the annual limitation on cost-sharing for drugs that do not have a medically appropriate generic equivalent available. In the 2020 rule, HHS reasoned that it would be less likely that the manufacturer’s assistance would disincentivize a lower cost alternative and thereby distort the market. HHS itself acknowledged situations when a patient has been subject to significant out-of-pocket costs because the patient has not progressed through the deductible phase of the health plan due to AAPs not applying the value of the manufacturer-sponsored assistance to the patient’s deductible. HHS further noted that “when this happens, the patient may be forced to stop taking the drug, switch to an alternative offered by the plan, or pay the full bill for the non-formulary drug, none of which are patient-friendly, especially for those patients with rare and life-threatening conditions.” We also strongly believe that federal legislative action is also needed to restore this vital patient protection. In fact, Congress is currently working on a bipartisan, bicameral basis to advance legislation to ensure copay assistance counts toward the patient’s maximum annual limitation on cost-sharing. Thank you for your consideration of this request. We look forward to your reply and your plan to ensure patients receive cost-sharing protections. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-merkley-baldwin-booker-colleagues-in-pushing-to-keep-anti-lgbtq-and-anti-abortion-provisions-out-of-critical-government-funding-bills,"Van Hollen Joins Merkley, Baldwin, Booker, Colleagues in Pushing to Keep Anti-LGBTQ+ and Anti-Abortion Provisions Out of Critical Government Funding Bills",2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senators Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine) urging them to reject any new poison pill policy riders in the fiscal year 2024 appropriations bills, including the anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-abortion policy provisions that House Republicans inserted into their appropriations bills. “The Senate has had tremendous success both passing bipartisan bills in committee and on the Senate floor because these bills are free of new poison pill riders. Unfortunately, the House appropriations bills are filled with new highly partisan provisions, including anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+ riders, that should be removed from any final appropriations bills,” write the Senators. These poison pill policy riders aim to make changes to laws that would fail to withstand scrutiny of congressional debate by attaching them to “must-pass” measures like appropriation bills. “Our country is facing a reproductive health care crisis, one that has been accelerated by the Supreme Court’s extremist decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization,” the Senators write. “House Republicans have proposed several new anti-abortion policy riders. These riders include a provision to force back in place medically unnecessary restrictions on medication abortion, a measure to stop the implementation of the Biden administration’s executive orders to protect access to abortion care, and a measure that would jeopardize access to essential postgraduate medical training in abortion care,” their letter continues. Not only are there anti-abortion poison pills included in the House bills, there are attacks on the LGBTQ+ community as well. “House Republicans have used the appropriations process to push extremist anti-LGBTQ+ measures, which threaten to disrupt the lives and fundamental dignity of the LGBTQ+ community,” the letter states. “Against this backdrop, House Republicans have introduced more than 50 anti-LGBTQ+ provisions across all 12 appropriations bills. These provisions include those allowing the government to discriminate against married same-sex couples as well as language to prevent the administration from enforcing laws to protect LGBTQ+ people from discrimination. Seven of the House’s twelve appropriations bills also contain dangerous riders that ban access to gender-affirming care, which would deprive transgender people of medically necessary and often life-saving healthcare,” the Senators note. These extreme, poison pill provisions riddled throughout the House appropriations bills threaten Congress’ ability to pass bipartisan funding bills that are needed to keep the government open and working for the American people. Hyper-partisan agenda items have no place in critical spending bills that require broad, bipartisan consensus to pass and keep the government open. In addition to Senator Van Hollen, the letter led by Senators Merkley, Baldwin, and Booker was signed by Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Luján (D-N.M.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). The Senators’ letter is endorsed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Guttmacher Institute, Human Rights Campaign, National Center for Transgender Equality, National Council of Jewish Women, National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, National Women’s Law Center, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Reproductive Freedom for All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), Whitman-Walker Institute. Full text of the letter can be found here and follows below: Dear Chair Murray and Vice Chair Collins: We write to urge you to keep the FY24 appropriations bills free of any new poison pill policy riders. Partisan, discriminatory, and harmful policy riders have no place in appropriations bills. The Senate has had tremendous success both passing bipartisan bills in committee and on the Senate floor because these bills are free of new poison pill riders. Unfortunately, the House appropriations bills are filled with new highly partisan provisions, including anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+ riders, that should be removed from any final appropriations bills. Our country is facing a reproductive health care crisis, one that has been accelerated by the Supreme Court’s extremist decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. As of November 7, 2023, 14 states are enforcing abortion bans at any point in pregnancy and seven states have imposed abortion bans with limits that range from six to 18 weeks. These bans leave 1 in 3 women, as well as transgender and nonbinary people, without access to abortion and disproportionately impact people of color, people with disabilities, young people, people living in rural areas, and people with low incomes. Yet in the midst of this crisis, House Republicans have proposed several new anti-abortion policy riders. These riders include a provision to force back in place medically unnecessary restrictions on medication abortion, a measure to stop the implementation of the Biden administration’s executive orders to protect access to abortion care, and a measure that would jeopardize access to essential postgraduate medical training in abortion care. If adopted, these provisions would seriously undermine pregnant people’s ability to make decisions about their bodies and providers’ ability to provide necessary care. At the same time, House Republicans have used the appropriations process to push extremist anti-LGBTQ+ measures, which threaten to disrupt the lives and fundamental dignity of the LGBTQ+ community. Anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is already on the rise; in 2023 alone, more than 575 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced across 41 state legislatures, and more than 80 of those bills have been signed into law. Against this backdrop, House Republicans have introduced more than 50 anti-LGBTQ+ provisions across all 12 appropriations bills. These provisions include those allowing the government to discriminate against married same-sex couples as well as language to prevent the administration from enforcing laws to protect LGBTQ+ people from discrimination. Seven of the House’s twelve appropriations bills also contain dangerous riders that ban access to gender-affirming care, which would deprive transgender people of medically necessary and often life-saving healthcare. Controversial poison pill provisions like those riddled throughout the House appropriations bills will severely undermine Congress’ ability to push forward must-pass funding measures to keep the government open and working for the American people. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mfume-maryland-delegation-announces-nearly-13-million-for-coastal-restoration-and-resilience-projects,"Congressman Mfume, Maryland Delegation Announces Nearly $13 Million for Coastal Restoration and Resilience Projects",2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Kweisi Mfume,M000687,mfume.house.gov,mfume,https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer and John Sarbanes (all D-Md.) today announced $12,901,800 in National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) funding for restoration and resiliency projects to improve coastal communities and their fish and wildlife habitats. The funding was made available through the National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The federal funds will bolster climate resiliency and reduce the risks and devastating impacts of rising seas, coastal flooding and intense storms in coastal areas and habitats. “Climate change is an existential threat that affects every community, but coastal communities are particularly vulnerable,” said the lawmakers. “This funding will help Maryland communities implement comprehensive solutions to address issues like flooding and coastal erosion. Across the state, we’re investing in projects to restore and protect our shorelines and habitats and create more sustainable, resilient communities.” The federal grants have been awarded to the following: Backyard Basecamp, $202,600, for Design and Permitting for Stream Daylighting and Restoration of Biddison Run in Baltimore City Chesapeake Bay Foundation, $843,500, for Restoring Oyster Reefs and Improving Resilience in the Severn River through Community Engagement Delmarva Resource Conservation and Development Council, $2,253,400, for Advancing Coastal Resilience through Salt Marsh Restoration in Coastal Bays Dorchester County Council, $700,000, for Utilizing Living Shoreline Techniques to Reduce Erosion in the Hoopersville Village District GreenTrust Alliance, $1,519,900, for the Final Design and Permitting for the Blossom Point Shoreline Stabilization Project The Resilience Authority of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, $819,300, for Establishing a Nature-Based Resilience Pilot with the Annapolis Maritime Resilience Initiative The Resilience Authority of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County Restoration, $1,340,400, for the Restoration of an Urban Stream to Create a Holistic Stream, Wetland, and Shoreline Complex South Baltimore Gateway Partnership, $1,294,500, for Designing the Smith Cove Environmental Justice Project South Baltimore Gateway Partnership, $1,500,000, for Restoring Medstar Harbor Hospital Wetland and Shoreline Southern Maryland Resource Conservation and Development Board, $2,428,200, for the Living Shoreline and Terrapin Habitat Restoration Near Naval Air Station Patuxent River Chartered by Congress in 1984, NFWF is a 501(c )(3) nonprofit that supports the conservation of plants, animals and ecosystems alongside federal partners like NOAA. The National Coastal Resilience Fund is a partnership between the NFWF, NOAA, U.S. Department of Defense, Shell USA, TransRe, SalesForce and Oxy. This program supports on-the-ground projects to engage communities and reduce their vulnerability to growing risks from extreme weather, rising sea levels, flooding and other coastal hazards by strengthening coastal ecosystems that benefit both people and wildlife.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/maryland-delegation-announces-nearly-13-million-for-coastal-restoration-and-resilience-projects,Maryland Delegation Announces Nearly $13 Million for Coastal Restoration and Resilience Projects,2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, John Sarbanes and Kweisi Mfume (all D-Md.) announced $12,901,800 in National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) funding for restoration and resiliency projects to improve coastal communities and their fish and wildlife habitats. The funding was made available through the National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The federal funds will bolster climate resiliency and reduce the risks and devastating impacts of rising seas, coastal flooding and intense storms in coastal areas and habitats. “Climate change is an existential threat that affects every community, but coastal communities are particularly vulnerable,” said the lawmakers. “This funding will help Maryland communities implement comprehensive solutions to address issues like flooding and coastal erosion. Across the state, we’re investing in projects to restore and protect our shorelines and habitats and create more sustainable, resilient communities.” The federal grants have been awarded to the following: Backyard Basecamp, $202,600, for Design and Permitting for Stream Daylighting and Restoration of Biddison Run in Baltimore City Chesapeake Bay Foundation, $843,500, for Restoring Oyster Reefs and Improving Resilience in the Severn River through Community Engagement Delmarva Resource Conservation and Development Council, $2,253,400, for Advancing Coastal Resilience through Salt Marsh Restoration in Coastal Bays Dorchester County Council, $700,000, for Utilizing Living Shoreline Techniques to Reduce Erosion in the Hoopersville Village District GreenTrust Alliance, $1,519,900, for the Final Design and Permitting for the Blossom Point Shoreline Stabilization Project The Resilience Authority of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, $819,300, for Establishing a Nature-Based Resilience Pilot with the Annapolis Maritime Resilience Initiative The Resilience Authority of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County Restoration, $1,340,400, for the Restoration of an Urban Stream to Create a Holistic Stream, Wetland, and Shoreline Complex South Baltimore Gateway Partnership, $1,294,500, for Designing the Smith Cove Environmental Justice Project South Baltimore Gateway Partnership, $1,500,000, for Restoring Medstar Harbor Hospital Wetland and Shoreline Southern Maryland Resource Conservation and Development Board, $2,428,200, for the Living Shoreline and Terrapin Habitat Restoration Near Naval Air Station Patuxent River Chartered by Congress in 1984, NFWF is a 501(c )(3) nonprofit that supports the conservation of plants, animals and ecosystems alongside federal partners like NOAA. The National Coastal Resilience Fund is a partnership between the NFWF, NOAA, U.S. Department of Defense, Shell USA, TransRe, SalesForce and Oxy. This program supports on-the-ground projects to engage communities and reduce their vulnerability to growing risks from extreme weather, rising sea levels, flooding and other coastal hazards by strengthening coastal ecosystems that benefit both people and wildlife.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-announce-availability-of-over-130000-h-2b-visas-for-fiscal-year-2024-and-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-seafood-industrys-long-term-workforce-needs,"Van Hollen, Cardin Announce Availability of Over 130,000 H-2B Visas for Fiscal Year 2024 and Bipartisan Legislation to Support Seafood Industry’s Long-Term Workforce Needs",2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) welcomed the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) release in November of 130,716 H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas for fiscal year 2024 as they announced that they have joined U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Mark Warner, and Tim Kaine (both D-Va.) in introducing bipartisan legislation to improve the H-2B program to help ensure Maryland seafood companies can hire the seasonal workforce they need to operate at full capacity. The fiscal year 2024 visa allocation total is comprised of the 66,000 H-2B visas that DHS can release annually under the Immigration and Nationality Act, as well as 64,716 supplemental visas authorized by the fiscal year 2023 government funding legislation and short-term continuing resolution (CR) that the Senators worked to pass. This visa program is essential for the operations of Maryland’s crab and seafood small businesses, which have historically employed foreign workers through it when domestic workers cannot be found to fill these positions. However, in recent years, the H-2B visa program has become an increasingly uncertain source of labor as economy-wide demand for the program has surged, ultimately squeezing out the seafood industry. The Senators’ legislation – the Save Our Seafood Act – addresses this issue by exempting seafood processors from the current annual 66,000-visa cap on the H-2B program. “Maryland’s seafood businesses – most of which are small and family-owned – not only process the iconic blue crabs that our state is known for, they also power an industry that contributes millions of dollars to our economy annually. That’s why we pressed the Administration to provide the maximum number of H-2B visas available in order to ensure these businesses have the workforce they need to operate. This is a key step to support our local businesses for the upcoming season, but it’s just as critical that we secure a long-term solution to provide certainty in the seasons to come. Our legislation offers a tailored approach to better position Maryland businesses to meet their labor demands while supporting American jobs. Providing a reliable supply of H-2B visas – along with our ongoing fight to protect the workers in this industry – is essential to the success of our treasured seafood industry for years to come,” said Senator Van Hollen. “For years, the struggle to hire seasonal workers has put an incredible strain on America’s seafood industry. The chronic worker shortage has put seafood and crab businesses, particularly those on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, at risk of permanent damage. Expanding the H-2B visa program will allow businesses to hire more seasonal workers and help fill a critical void in the upcoming season. Further, by eliminating the 66,000-visa cap for seafood processors, we can ensure that Maryland’s seafood industry will fully rebound,” said Senator Cardin. Since Fiscal Year 2017, Congress has authorized the Department of Homeland Security in year-end omnibus appropriations laws to issue additional H-2B visas beyond the statutory cap, subject to specified conditions. While Senators Van Hollen and Cardin have worked each year to maximize the number of H-2B visas available for Maryland businesses, the program’s current structure fundamentally disadvantages crab processing and purchasing companies. This $355 million Maryland industry relies on these visas to employ approximately 500 workers for the crab season, which runs from April to November. Maryland’s seafood companies do not have flexibility in their visa timing needs. If workers are not available to process crabs when harvest occurs, businesses face closure – either for the season or for good. By exempting crab processing and purchasing companies from the 66,000 annual cap on H-2B visa allocation, this legislation will give Maryland seafood businesses the certainty they need to remain in operation and preserve the viability of this iconic industry. This legislation is also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Kennedy (R-La.), and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska). Bill text can be viewed here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-lead-bipartisan-vote-to-confirm-omalley-for-social-security-commissioner,"Van Hollen, Cardin Lead Bipartisan Vote to Confirm O’Malley for Social Security Commissioner",2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) praised the confirmation of former Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley to serve as the next Social Security Commissioner. The bipartisan vote Monday was 50-11. “Martin O’Malley understands the importance of Social Security to millions of Americans – including our seniors and those with disabilities. That’s why I was proud to support his confirmation today to lead the Social Security Administration. As the former chief executive of our state, I know he is committed to serving the American people and that he will be a great team leader for the public servants who power this Maryland-based agency. I’m confident in his commitment to protecting this vital earned benefit and delivering critical service for those who count on it,” said Senator Van Hollen. “Martin O’Malley’s extensive career in public service – including as Mayor of Baltimore and Governor of Maryland — has been underscored by transparency, accountability and progress. He will bring these same values to the Social Security Administration,” said Senator Cardin. “Social Security is a critical insurance policy that tens of millions of working Americans pay into every year so that benefits can be there when they are older, disabled or leave young children after death. Martin is a dedicated public servant who understands what Social Security means to our seniors, disability and survivor beneficiaries, and I am proud to support his confirmation as Social Security Commissioner.” The Social Security Administration (SSA), headquartered in Woodlawn, Md., near Baltimore, administers the Social Security programs (retirement and disability) and the Supplemental Security Income program (SSI, income support for low-income individuals who have not worked enough to qualify for Social Security). The agency has roughly 60,000 employees in Maryland and nationwide across the headquarters and 10 regional offices, six processing centers, 164 hearing offices and approximately 1,230 field offices. The SSA also, E-Verify, Medicaid, and Federal Benefits for Veterans, as well as programs associated with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, Coal Industry Retiree Health Benefit Act, and Help America Vote Act. Altogether, SSA pays benefits to roughly 70 million people annually. FORMER MARYLAND GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY Martin O’Malley is a lifelong public servant, who served as Governor of Maryland from 2007 to 2015, following two terms as Mayor of the City of Baltimore. Prior to being elected Mayor, O’Malley served as a member of the Baltimore City Council from 1991-1999 and previously served as an Assistant States Attorney for the City of Baltimore. A pioneer of using performance-management and customer service technologies in government, O’Malley has written extensively about how to govern for better results in the Information Age by measuring the outputs of government on a real-time basis. Martin O’Malley earned a B.A. from Catholic University and a J.D. from the University of Maryland School of Law. Since 2016, he has lectured on public administration at numerous universities and institutions, including the University of Maryland, Harvard University, Georgetown University, and Boston College School of Law.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-warner-kaine-push-to-fund-wmata-national-security-needs,"Van Hollen, Cardin, Warner, Kaine Push to Fund WMATA National Security Needs",2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) and Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-Va.) wrote to President Biden requesting that the administration include at least $30 million in their FY25 budget request for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) to specifically address the agency’s operational costs related to national security and counterterrorism. This request comes as WMATA faces a $750 million budget shortfall that threatens safety and services starting next summer. In their letter, the senators stress that WMATA, more than other transit authorities, shoulders a heavy security burden because of its role in federal government operations and national security activities. The agency estimates that it spends between $30 and $33 million annually on operations relating to its national security and counterterrorism mission. “Given this sui generis role played by WMATA, it should come as no surprise that the agency shoulders some burdens that are unique among transit providers. Perhaps most important of these burdens is WMATA’s responsibility to prevent terrorism targeting our Nation’s capital—a responsibility far out of proportion to the size of the system,” the senators wrote. They continued, “Unfortunately, this responsibility is more than hypothetical. In 2010, an anti-government extremist opened fire at the Pentagon station. A year later, a man was convicted in connection with the targeting of four WMATA stations in a terrorist bomb plot. And let us not forget that it was a Metro Transit Police officer who, while assisting Capitol Police, discovered the bomb planted at the Democratic National Committee on January 6, 2021.” Senators Van Hollen, Cardin, Warner, and Kaine have long been active supporters of WMATA, working to secure critical funding, expand service, and improve safety. A copy of the letter is available here and below: Dear President Biden: We write today to respectfully request that the President’s budget request for Fiscal Year 2025 include at least $30 million for transfer to Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) for the agency’s operational costs associated with national security activities and countering terrorism on the system. WMATA’s operations are critical to the functioning of the federal government in the National Capital Region. A majority of WMATA’s 19.6 million riders are federal workers. Over one-third of all Metrorail stations are located on federal property, serving federal facilities. Two stations on Capitol Hill serve Members of Congress and their staffs. Federal facilities served by WMATA include our most sensitive national security installations, like the Pentagon and the Department of Homeland Security. Pentagon Station, for example, provides convenient rail access to the global headquarters of our Nation’s Department of Defense and uniformed services. Given this sui generis role played by WMATA, it should come as no surprise that the agency shoulders some burdens that are unique among transit providers. Perhaps most important of these burdens is WMATA’s responsibility to prevent terrorism targeting our Nation’s capital—a responsibility far out of proportion to the size of the system. Unfortunately, this responsibility is more than hypothetical. In 2010, an anti-government extremist opened fire at the Pentagon station. A year later, a man was convicted in connection with the targeting of four WMATA stations in a terrorist bomb plot. And let us not forget that it was a Metro Transit Police officer who, while assisting Capitol Police, discovered the bomb planted at the Democratic National Committee on January 6, 2021. WMATA estimates that it spends between $30 and $33 million on operations relating to its national security and counterterrorism mission. Similar to the Federal Payment for Emergency Planning and Security Costs for the District of Columbia, these costs are directly attributable to the unique role WMATA plays in ensuring the safety and smooth operation of our Nation’s federal government. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the federal government provide funding to WMATA for these expenses. Therefore, we respectfully request that the President’s budget for FY25 include at least $30 million to support WMATA’s national security operational expenses necessary to keep the system and the National Capital Region safe.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-padilla-cortez-masto-in-calling-on-treasury-and-irs-to-expand-access-to-vehicle-refueling-infrastructure-credits,"Van Hollen Joins Padilla, Cortez Masto in Calling on Treasury and IRS to Expand Access to Vehicle Refueling Infrastructure Credits",2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and their Senate colleagues in calling on the Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to finalize guidance for and maximize inclusive access to the 30C Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) included an extension of this tax credit, which provides billions of dollars for eligible refueling infrastructure investments such as zero-emission truck stops, intermodal facilities, and warehouses. Compared to a more restrictive threshold, the recommendations of the letter would expand eligibility to cover an estimated 32 million additional people, including 4.7 million rural residents, 2.1 million people living in poverty, 2.2 million Black people, and 3.6 million Latinos. The letter also requests that Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and IRS commissioner Daniel Werfel adopt temporary safe harbor conditions in their guidance to protect taxpayers who already installed infrastructure over the last year and to minimize negative impacts on future investment and planning decisions. “Effective implementation of Section 30C is critical to realizing the Administration’s goal of deploying 500,000 chargers by 2030 and facilitating the swift decarbonization of our transportation sector,” wrote the Senators. In addition Senator Van Hollen, the letter, led by Senators Padilla and Cortez Masto, is signed by Senators Tom Carper (D-Del.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.). Full text of the letter is available here and below: Dear Secretary Yellen and Commissioner Werfel: We write to urge you to swiftly finalize guidance for the Section 30C Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit, which was significantly expanded through the historic Inflation Reduction Act (IRA, P.L. 117-169). We also ask that you, in this guidance, establish an inclusive census tract definition, clarify per single item basis, and provide a safe harbor provision for certain investments already made. Effective implementation of Section 30C is critical to realizing the Administration’s goal of deploying 500,000 chargers by 2030 and facilitating the swift decarbonization of our transportation sector. As you know, to qualify under Section 30C, the IRA requires properties to be placed in service in an “eligible census tract,” which excludes “urban areas” as designated by the Secretary of Commerce. We urge you to define eligible census tracts in the most inclusive manner possible. Specifically, we advocate for making eligible any and all census tracts in which no less than 10 percent of census blocks are classified as rural, consistent with the recommendations endorsed by a coalition of more than 30 environmental, industry, consumer, and labor stakeholders in June. The interpretation will incentivize significant additional public and private sector investments in zero-emission truck stops, intermodal facilities, warehouses, and other foundational locations, as Congress intended. Additionally, the IRA amended Section 30C to provide incentives on a per single item basis rather than a per location basis, dramatically increasing the availability of the credit and better aligning this important investment in the Nation’s charging infrastructure with current and future technologies. We urge that each port at a refueling property be considered a single item, consistent with the Department of Transportation’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program. This will provide flexibility as refueling properties increase in size and capabilities, improving longevity and enabling future innovation. Given the delays and uncertainty created by the current lack of guidance, we encourage the adoption of a temporary safe harbor for taxpayers who have acted in good faith to comply with Section 30C requirements. This should also be accompanied with the development and dissemination of maps and other user-friendly materials or tools to help navigate eligibility. Such actions will protect taxpayers who installed infrastructure over the last year and minimize negative impacts on future investment and planning decisions. We appreciate your attention to this matter, and we look forward to working with you to ensure that federal investments are consistent with the Administration’s broader climate and environmental justice goals. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-warren-baldwin-democratic-senators-in-introducing-resolution-affirming-support-for-fdas-scientific-judgment-that-medication-abortion-is-safe-and-effective,"Van Hollen Joins Warren, Baldwin, Democratic Senators in Introducing Resolution Affirming Support for FDA’s Scientific Judgment That Medication Abortion Is Safe and Effective",2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and their Senate colleagues in introducing a resolution in support of equitable, science-based policies governing access to medication abortion. Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, reproductive rights have been increasingly under attack, with more than a dozen states banning or restricting access to abortion care, and anti-abortion extremists attempting to ban medication abortion nationwide. Medication abortion is currently used for over half of all abortions. This resolution expresses the sense of Congress that the scientific judgment of the FDA that mifepristone is safe and effective should be respected, and that law and policy governing access to life-saving, time-sensitive medication abortion care in the United States should be equitable and based on science. The resolution affirms that mifepristone is safe and effective, while acknowledging the significant harm that would be posed to both health care providers and patients across the nation if mifepristone were sharply curtailed. This action comes as Americans continue to grapple with the reversal of Roe v. Wade, and follows this week’s announcement that the Supreme Court will hear a challenge to medication abortion access. “Individuals’ health care decisions should be grounded in science and made along with their doctors – not left to the whims of far-right judges and politicians. As Trump-appointed judges and Republican lawmakers continue their ruthless attacks on reproductive freedoms – and the health care providers and resources that support them – we will keep fighting to ensure scientifically tested, safe, and effective options remain accessible to everyone who needs them,” said Senator Van Hollen. “I am fed up with extremists trying to turn back the clock and deny women reproductive health care – especially after decades of science that show that medication abortion is safe and effective. Any threat to the accessibility of this drug would be devastating to both health care providers and patients across the country, and Senate Democrats are demonstrating with this resolution that we're determined to fight back,” said Senator Warren. “In Wisconsin and across the country, the right to comprehensive health care is under attack. We need to fight on all fronts to restore and protect the freedom of every American to make their own health care decisions, and that includes protecting access to medication abortion. Mifepristone is a safe, effective, and sometimes lifesaving medication, and it’s high time politicians and judges leave women alone and allow Americans to make their own decisions about their health, families, and future,” said Senator Baldwin. “MAGA Republicans have been clear they’ll stop at nothing to enact a national abortion plan – even questioning the scientific expertise of FDA. Make no mistake, Mifepristone is safe and effective. And Congress gave FDA the authority to evaluate and ensure the safety and efficacy of drugs. Democrats will never stop fighting for women’s health,” said Senate Majority Leader Schumer. ""The district court's decision earlier this year to invalidate longstanding approval for mifepristone contradicts scientific evidence and threatens Americans' access to essential health care. Medication abortion remains safe and legal in Colorado, and I'll keep fighting to keep it that way,” said Senator Bennet. “Our resolution resoundingly reaffirms the need for abortion medication to remain accessible. This medication has been used safely and effectively for twenty years, and is the most common form of abortion care. With Republicans imposing draconian restrictions on reproductive care across the country, we must ensure abortion medication remains available to all who need it,” said Senator Blumenthal. “In a post-Roe world, we must follow the science and maintain access to lifesaving abortion medication,” said Senator Butler. “Generations of women are watching their rights get stripped away in real-time, and this resolution underscores the need to protect their reproductive freedom. The Supreme Court must preserve access to essential reproductive health care and the right to bodily autonomy.” “Health care decisions should be made between women and their doctors, and we must protect women’s access to all FDA-approved treatments, including Mifepristone,” said Senator Carper. “This resolution reaffirms that access to lifesaving, time-sensitive medication should be equitable and based on science.” “More than two decades ago, the FDA determined mifepristone to be safe and effective. Since then, this medication has been widely and safely used by women to end early stage pregnancies and help manage miscarriages,” said Senator Durbin. “If the Supreme Court upholds the Fifth Circuit’s decision, which ignored science and the law in turning back the clock on mifepristone regulations, it would upend the FDA review process, jeopardize access to a host of critically important medications, and impose new restrictions on abortions even in states where the procedure remains legal. This Resolution restates the obvious: that the FDA, not politically-motivated organizations, should be trusted to make determinations about what drugs are safe and effective. And that, ultimately, reproductive health care decisions ought to be made between women and their doctors, not politicians or judges.” “It’s plain and simple: abortion is health care, and health care is a human right,” said Senator Markey. “Pregnant people and their health care providers are facing escalating attacks on their care including the criminalization of abortions. Our government has a moral obligation to protect not only the right but also the ability to access abortion medication — safe and effective medication that is backed by science. Let’s keep medical decisions between patients and doctors—not between patients and the GOP.” “Mifepristone is a safe, effective drug approved by the FDA more than 20 years ago that millions of women rely on, so it should come as no surprise it’s been chosen as the right wing’s next target. Cutting off access to medication abortion would bring us one step closer to a national abortion ban. I will keep fighting to keep government out of women’s health care,” said Senator Murphy. “Reproductive freedom is a fundamental right, and we must stand resolute in affirming access to lifesaving abortion care,” said Senator Padilla. “With the Supreme Court and MAGA Republicans constantly threatening longstanding, essential reproductive freedoms, it’s imperative that safe, science-based drugs like mifepristone are equitably accessible and protected to the fullest extent under the rule of law.” “Mifepristone is a safe, effective, and FDA-approved drug. I helped introduce this resolution because it is dangerous to restrict access to this critical medication,” said Senator Stabenow. “Mifepristone is safe, effective, and used by millions of women each year—and is essential that we fight back against Republicans' anti-abortion and anti-science efforts to drastically restrict access to necessary and lifesaving abortion care throughout the entire country,” said Senator Murray. “And let’s not forget, anti-abortion extremists looking to rip away access to mifepristone also threaten to upend FDA’s ability to approve all kinds of other safe medications too—everything from insulin to chemotherapy drugs. Senate Democrats are going to keep working every day to protect and restore abortion rights at every turn."" In addition to Senator Van Hollen, the resolution, led by Senators Warren and Baldwin, was also co-sponored by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-N.M.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Patty Murray (D-Wash.) The resolution has been endorsed by Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Power to Decide, National Council of Jewish Women, The Century Foundation’s Health Equity and Reform Team, National Partnership for Women and Families, Guttmacher Institute, Center for Reproductive Rights, Reproductive Freedom for All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, and the EMAA Project.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-schatz-welch-kaine-booker-call-on-biden-to-urge-israeli-egyptian-governments-to-allow-journalists-into-gaza-protect-free-press,"Van Hollen, Schatz, Welch, Kaine, Booker Call on Biden to Urge Israeli, Egyptian Governments to Allow Journalists Into Gaza, Protect Free Press",2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) called on President Joe Biden to urge the governments of Israel and Egypt to protect press freedom and allow journalists into Gaza to cover the war. In their letter to the president, the senators underscored the importance of safe access into Gaza for journalists and the need for accurate and independent reporting from inside the warzone. “We ask you to further urge the Israeli government, as well as the Egyptian government, to respect press freedom by allowing all interested journalists to report without restriction from Gaza, with the exception of operational security requirements for embedded journalists, and provide journalists with the appropriate protections to carry out their essential work,” the senators wrote. “Without protections for journalists in Gaza and access for international journalists, the world is unable to get a complete and accurate understanding of events. Journalists play a vital role in a free society by holding individuals, organizations, and governments accountable for their actions. The lack of transparency caused by limited journalistic access is at odds with the obligation all governments have to allow citizens to access factual information. Especially in a time of rampant mis- and disinformation, journalists both provide the international community with up-to-date news about the war and equip the local population with potentially life-saving information about fast-changing developments.” The senators continued, “American democracy rests on a bedrock commitment to a free press and we must insist on the same from others, including our closest allies and partners. The principles for which the United States advocates send strong messages to foreign governments and help establish essential international norms.” The full text of the senators’ letter to President Biden can be found below and is available here. Dear President Biden, We appreciate your continued engagement with Congress on issues related to the war in Gaza and welcome your efforts to secure the release of hostages, limit civilian casualties, and provide humanitarian aid to Palestinians in desperate need of assistance. We write to you today because we are deeply concerned about the inability of international journalists to enter and report from Gaza and the lack of safety for journalists covering the war in Gaza, which keeps the public from understanding the full dimensions of this war. We were glad to see Secretary Blinken’s letter to the Agence France-Presse (AFP) about the U.S. commitment to protecting journalists during armed conflict and his comments on the “vital importance of their mission” in recent days, but more must be done. Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, does not respect a free press, given its history of using propaganda and harassing, obstructing, torturing, and using physical violence against journalists in Gaza—actions that must be condemned and stopped. Israeli journalists were among the 1,200 killed in Hamas’s unspeakably brutal attacks on October 7th. As Israel addresses legitimate and ongoing threats from Hamas, we ask you to further urge the Israeli government, as well as the Egyptian government, to respect press freedom by allowing all interested journalists to report without restriction from Gaza, with the exception of operational security requirements for embedded journalists, and provide journalists with the appropriate protections to carry out their essential work. News organizations, including those in Israel, are not able to independently access Gaza. In November, 11 news organizations sent a letter to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi urging them to allow their journalists into Gaza to report on the war. According to the Israeli government, over 2,000 international journalists have come to Israel since October 7th. A small number of reporters have been allowed to access Gaza as part of a tour organized by Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Under this arrangement, journalists must remain with the IDF, and in some cases, face requirements to submit their footage to the IDF for review before publication. One journalist has been able to enter and report from Gaza without IDF supervision, but only for a matter of hours at a United Arab Emirates field hospital in southern Gaza. Other journalists who have requested to enter Gaza through the Rafah crossing have been refused, receiving conflicting answers from the Egyptian and Israeli governments about why they are unable to cross the border. This setup is wholly inadequate and severely restricts the flow of independent information. Reporting on military operations is a dangerous, but extremely important, job. Today, journalists are risking their lives reporting from conflict zones around the globe, including in Ukraine, to share stories about the reality and impacts of war with the world. Israel, which almost entirely controls access to Gaza, allowed international (though, not Israeli) journalists access to the territory during its 2014 military offensive, permitting in-depth, on-the-ground reporting on the war. Journalists understand that entering a warzone puts themselves in harm’s way, but they should be the ones to decide their risk tolerance, not the Israeli or Egyptian governments. You spoke of the importance and the costs of reporting on the war in Ukraine last year, honoring the “courage and sacrifice of journalists around the world.” Let us listen to the nearly 100 French journalists who signed a petition calling for international journalists to be allowed to report in Gaza, writing “Let us enter the Gaza Strip to do our job. We know the risks.” Access for international journalists is even more important given the dire situation facing Gazan reporters. Since October 7th, the world has relied on Gazan journalists, many of them freelancers, to report on and share information. They, at great risk to themselves, have continued working while fleeing their homes, losing family members, and living under constant threat of violence. The scale of the killings of journalists and media workers is unprecedented in recent times. In October, the IDF told Reuters and AFP that it cannot guarantee the safety of their journalists during IDF operations in Gaza, and devastatingly, dozens of journalists in Gaza have been killed, as have reporters working outside Gaza on the Lebanese border. Others are injured and unable to leave Gaza. With no new reporters or media workers allowed to enter Gaza, there is no flexibility for rotating people in and out of the field. Palestinian journalists in Gaza are cut off from international support, so have been unable to receive personal protective gear, including bulletproof vests and helmets. Media and communications blackouts limit their ability to report and publish information. The inability for reporters or their families to leave Gaza leaves them trapped in a humanitarian nightmare. The international community must make clear that those restrictions on or mistreatment of journalists is unacceptable. Without protections for journalists in Gaza and access for international journalists, the world is unable to get a complete and accurate understanding of events. Journalists play a vital role in a free society by holding individuals, organizations, and governments accountable for their actions. The lack of transparency caused by limited journalistic access is at odds with the obligation all governments have to allow citizens to access factual information. Especially in a time of rampant mis- and disinformation, journalists both provide the international community with up-to-date news about the war and equip the local population with potentially life-saving information about fast-changing developments. American democracy rests on a bedrock commitment to a free press and we must insist on the same from others, including our closest allies and partners. The principles for which the United States advocates send strong messages to foreign governments and help establish essential international norms. We respectfully request your administration urge the Israeli government, and where appropriate, the Egyptian government, to: Expeditiously allow journalists interested in covering the war into Gaza; Provide the standard protections for Palestinian journalists already in Gaza, including respecting media credentials and press insignia, and convey and follow rules of engagement regarding the press that guarantee basic protection; Allow personal protective and professional equipment into Gaza to help journalists conduct their reporting duties, including bulletproof vests, helmets, and phone chargers; Permit journalists in Gaza who desire to leave the territory to do so; Refrain from using media and communications blackouts and take care to preserve telecommunications infrastructure needed for reporting; Ensure that reporters are not to be harassed, detained, threatened or otherwise prevented from doing their jobs in areas adjacent to Gaza, including in Israel, Egypt, Lebanon, and the West Bank, and release unduly detained journalists; and Conduct swift, transparent, and thorough investigations into killings and other attacks on journalists, following internationally accepted standards. We appreciate your emphasis on protecting civilians as Israel addresses the security threats posed by Hamas. We are grateful for your leadership in negotiating the week-long humanitarian pause, which secured the release of many hostages and allowed desperately needed humanitarian assistance into Gaza. As you continue to engage with the Israeli and Egyptian governments, we ask that you advocate for the safety and freedom of journalists in this conflict. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-sarbanes-secure-provisions-to-codify-public-access-to-greenbury-point-in-senate-passed-defense-bill,"Van Hollen, Cardin, Sarbanes Secure Provisions to Codify Public Access to Greenbury Point in Senate-Passed Defense Bill",2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressman John P. Sarbanes (all D-Md.) announced their success in securing Senate passage of their provision to prevent the U.S. Navy from unilaterally blocking public access to the Greenbury Point Conservation Area at Naval Support Activity Annapolis (NSA Annapolis). After securing language in the Senate-drafted Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in July to prevent the Navy from making long-term public access restrictions to the Conservation Area without Congressional approval, the lawmakers worked to include and strengthen these protections in the final version of the annual defense bill. The legislation, which passed the Senate Wednesday, will prohibit the Navy from modifying or restricting public access to Greenbury Point, with few exceptions such as for emergencies or temporarily in the interest of public safety, as it currently does for live fire exercises. The lawmakers’ provision also preserves the Navy’s option to transfer or lease the Conservation Area property to another public entity. The annual defense bill is expected to be considered by the House of Representatives later this week. “For years, Annapolis residents and visitors have cherished the opportunity to explore Greenbury Point – one of the few publicly accessible areas of the Bay. As the Navy has considered altering that access, our constituents expressed their strong opposition to changing that policy. That’s why we fought for this provision that says in no uncertain terms – Greenbury Point must stay open to the public,” said Senator Van Hollen. “Preserving Greenbury Point balances the needs of the Navy with the needs of the community,” said Senator Cardin. “Its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay makes it an important place for outdoor recreation and conservation in the region. Ensuring public access and preventing further development will allow Greenbury Point to continue to be a model of coastal stewardship for the Chesapeake Bay.” “For more than two decades, Greenbury Point has served as a critical wildlife refuge and cherished natural recreation area for the public, bringing the Bay within reach for more Maryland residents and visitors,” said Congressman John Sarbanes. “Maintaining public access to this space has been a top priority, which is why I am so pleased that a provision preventing long-term restrictions to access at Greenbury Point was included in the final NDAA. I’ll keep working with Senators Van Hollen and Cardin to ensure that the Greenbury Point Conservation Area remains protected and publicly available.” Having passed the Senate, the bill must now pass the House and be signed by the President before becoming law.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-tillis-pass-bipartisan-legislation-to-preserve-visa-program-for-us-government-employees-abroad-in-annual-defense-bill,"Van Hollen, Tillis Pass Bipartisan Legislation to Preserve Visa Program for U.S. Government Employees Abroad in Annual Defense Bill",2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) announced Senate passage of their bipartisan legislation to ensure foreign U.S. government employees who have provided exceptional service to our nation abroad have a secure and efficient path to immigrate to the United States, along with their families. This legislation, the GRATEFUL Act, will cut the years-long wait time to receive visas that these employees and their family members now face. The Senators included their bill in the final Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which they voted to pass in the Senate Wednesday. It is expected to be considered by the House of Representatives later this week. “The United States counts on foreign nationals with deep knowledge of their home countries to help us carry out essential operations abroad, and in the process, they often risk their lives through civil unrest, natural disasters, and war. This longstanding immigrant visa program recognizes the exceptional careers of these U.S. government employees abroad by granting them the opportunity to live safely in America with their families. At a time when eligible candidates are facing an estimated 14-year wait to receive their visas, the passage of the GRATEFUL Act will preserve this vital program and help ensure we honor our commitment to those who endured great risk to help advance U.S. missions abroad,” said Senator Van Hollen. “US employees abroad are on the front lines of our foreign policy objectives, and the GIV program is a long standing incentive for recruiting and retaining talent,” said Senator Tillis. “The GRATEFUL Act will ensure we are able to keep our commitment to exceptional employees who serve the US, and to keep our nation safer.” Background on the GRATEFUL Act In 1952, Congress created a visa category to recognize U.S. government employees abroad for their service to the United States. For 70 years, this program has allowed foreign nationals with at least 15 years of exceptional service to the United States to immigrate with their families. During their careers, these employees risk their lives year after year through civil unrest, terrorism, natural disasters, and war – underscored in May 2023 when three local employees were brutally murdered in the line of duty in Nigeria. Their work is foundational to our foreign policy and ensures the safety and well-being of U.S. citizens, provides security and logistics for U.S. officials, and supports operations abroad. The GRATEFUL (Granting Recognition to Accomplished Talented Employees for Unwavering Loyalty) Act renames this the Government Employee Immigrant Visa (GIV) program, and this program provides a unique incentive to hire and retain employees abroad. In the 1990s, U.S. government employees abroad were placed in the Employment Based Fourth Preference (EB4) immigrant visa category. Out of a total of 140,000 employment visas available annually, the EB4 category is numerically limited to 7.1% of the overall allocation – around 9,940 per year. Over the years, EB4 became a catch-all category for a wide range of immigrants such as religious workers, retired employees of international organizations or NATO civilian employees, certain physicians, Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJ), and Panama Canal workers. For the first time in its history, this program is in jeopardy. As a result of the growing demand for other visa classifications in the EB4 category, there is a backlog of over 118,000 EB4 cases – thus visas are not immediately available to retiring U.S. government employees abroad. Applicants must wait an estimated 14 years between qualifying for and receiving a visa, meaning employees who work a full career and retire at 65 may not be able to begin the visa process until they are nearing their 80s. The GRATEFUL Act preserves visa availability for U.S. government employees abroad by repurposing the Nicaraguan and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) visa offset, an existing carve-out from the Diversity Visa (DV) program created in 1999 that is sparsely used today. Since 1999, NACARA has offset 5,000 visas per year from the DV program, and usage has dwindled to about 150 per year. This bill redirects 3,500 visas in FY2024, and 3,000 visas each year after into the GIV program. This will not add to overall visa numbers. In testimony on June 7, 2023, the Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs stated that the passage of this bill is a top priority for the State Department.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-introduce-biden-fourth-circuit-court-of-appeals-nominee-nicole-berner-to-senate-judiciary-committee,"Van Hollen, Cardin Introduce Biden Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals Nominee Nicole Berner to Senate Judiciary Committee",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) formally introduced Nicole Berner, President Joe Biden’s nominee for a Maryland seat on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, to the Senate Judiciary Committee at her confirmation hearing. Ms. Berner has been nominated to fill the vacancy created when Judge Diana Gribbon Motz took senior status in September 2022. “Today, Nicole Berner clearly demonstrated her extensive qualifications and commitment to the rule of law. Drawing on her vast experience that has ranged from providing legal representation for working families and underrepresented communities to working as a litigator advancing civil rights, it’s clear that she is up to the task of serving the American people on the Fourth Circuit. I urge my colleagues on the Committee to quickly advance her nomination to the full Senate,” said Senator Van Hollen. “Nicole Berner has been fighting for civil rights and worker rights throughout her career and breaking glass ceilings along the way. Her vast experience and diverse perspective will be of great benefit to the Fourth Circuit – and Marylanders. She has excelled in a broad range of legal practice at the state and federal levels, and I was pleased to recommend Nicole Berner’s nomination to the White House, along with Senator Van Hollen,’” said Senator Cardin. “Public service is a sacrifice not just for the nominee, but for her family, so I also would like to thank Nicole’s wife and family for agreeing to share Nicole with the American people, given her commitment to public service.” NICOLE BERNER Nicole G. Berner is General Counsel to the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), where she has practiced as in-house counsel since 2006. Previously, Ms. Berner served as a staff attorney for Planned Parenthood Federation of America in Washington, D.C. from 2004 to 2006. She worked as a litigation associate at Jenner & Block LLP in Washington, D.C. from 2000 to 2004 after working as a visiting attorney at Yigal Arnon & Co. in Jerusalem, Israel, from 1999 to 2000. Ms. Berner served as a law clerk for Judge Thelton E. Henderson on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California from 1997 to 1998 and for Judge Betty B. Fletcher on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit from 1996 to 1997. She received her J.D., Order of the Coif, from University of California, Berkeley, School of Law, and her M.P.P. from the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California, Berkeley in 1996. She received her B.A., Phi Beta Kappa, from the University of California, Berkeley in 1988. Berner is a longtime resident of Montgomery County, Maryland. She has been an active member of her synagogue and community, and lives with her wife in Takoma Park, Maryland.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-secures-key-provisions-in-annual-defense-bill-passed-by-senate,Van Hollen Secures Key Provisions in Annual Defense Bill Passed by Senate,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) voted to pass the final fiscal year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in the Senate, which includes critical investments and legislative priorities the Senator worked to secure. The legislation provides more than $1 billion to Maryland military installations as well as a 5.2 percent pay raise for military and Department of Defense (DoD) civilian employees. “In the face of evolving threats around the world, this year’s defense bill helps keep Americans safe by investing in the resources necessary to counter challenges from our adversaries, advance our development of key emerging technologies, and strengthen our international security partnerships with our allies. With our state playing a key role in these national security missions, I’m pleased that this bill provides over $1 billion for military assets based in Maryland, boosts pay and benefits for our service members, and includes measures to improve the quality of life of our foreign service professionals. This bill is not perfect – and I believe we must continue to look at how we prioritize defense spending. However, on balance, this legislation positions us well to confront the security challenges our nation faces and contains many provisions that are critical to our state and our nation,” said Senator Van Hollen. Having passed the Senate, the FY24 NDAA now advances to the House of Representatives where it is expected to be considered this week. The bill must pass the House and be signed by the President before becoming law. Within the FY24 NDAA, Senator Van Hollen fought to include the following provisions: Public access protection for the Greenbury Point Conservation Area at Naval Support Activity Annapolis (NSA Annapolis). Senator Van Hollen, alongside Senator Ben Cardin and Congressman John Sarbanes (all D-Md.), included language to prevent the U.S. Navy from unilaterally curbing access to the Conservation Area. Senator Van Hollen’s GRATEFUL Act. This legislation, co-led by Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) ensures that foreign U.S. government employees who have provided exceptional service to our nation abroad over a long career have a secure and efficient path to immigrate to the United States, along with their families. Ending China’s unfair international advantages in global trade and diplomacy. The FY24 NDAA includes the bipartisan Ending China’s Developing Nation Status Act, legislation led by Senators Van Hollen, Mitt Romney (R-Utah), and others, which establishes U.S. policy to oppose the granting of “developing nation” status to China in future treaties and international organizations. It also directs the Secretary of State to pursue changing the status of China to “developed nation” in treaties or organizations where a mechanism for change exists. Funding authorization for critical military construction projects in Maryland, including: $885 million for joint military construction on Fort Meade, including, among other projects: $380 million for expansion and renovation of the National Security Agency campus $105 million for mission operations and records center at the National Security Agency campus $60.5 million for a cybersecurity operations facility $101.8 million for the Bethesda Naval Hospital $58 million for aircraft development and maintenance facilities at Naval Air Station, Patuxent River $38 million for the hydrant fueling system at Joint Base Andrews The FY24 NDAA also includes the Department of State Authorization Act, bipartisan legislation to support America’s diplomatic corps and advance U.S. diplomacy around the world. Senator Van Hollen fought to include the following provisions: Educational allowance for State Department employees in U.S. territories. This provision authorizes State Department employees to receive an educational allowance for their dependents to attend private schools while employed in U.S. territories in cases when there is no U.S. equivalent available. Authorization for a U.S.-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Center. This center will provide grants for research to support and elevate the importance of the U.S.-ASEAN partnership; trainings to both U.S. citizens and citizens of ASEAN states that improve people-to-people ties; and efforts to increase educational awareness for both the U.S. and ASEAN states on the importance of U.S.-ASEAN relations. Cyber Protection Support of Personal Accounts for Vulnerable Employees. There are currently no protections for the personal accounts of State Department employees, which are vulnerable to cyber-attacks and hostile information collection. This provision enables the State Department to provide cyber protection support for the personal technology devices and personal accounts of employees considered vulnerable, based on their geographic location or position in the State Department. Addressing long wait times for Office of Authentication requests. The Office of Authentications provides signed certificates of authenticity for a variety of documents to individuals, institutions, and government agencies to be used abroad. Senator Van Hollen’s office has received a significant number of complaints about wait times repeatedly ballooning for requested documents without warning, which interrupts international transactions for constituents and Maryland businesses. The language that Senator Van Hollen secured requires the State Department to issue a report that shows how wait times fluctuate and authorizes the Office to hire additional permanent staff to accommodate requests. Internet access as a utility for hardship overseas posts. Many Foreign Service employees and their family members now routinely conduct work from their homes, often as part of evening and weekend work. This language requires the State Department to consider internet access as a utility for officers in posts involving significant hardship and danger – ensuring secure consistent service so they can remain connected with their families. Additional Provisions to Support Servicemembers and their families:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-bennet-senate-colleagues-in-urging-treasury-to-ensure-families-and-businesses-can-reap-the-benefits-of-clean-energy-tax-credits-for-geothermal-heat-pumps-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions,"Van Hollen Joins Bennet, Senate Colleagues in Urging Treasury to Ensure Families and Businesses Can Reap the Benefits of Clean Energy Tax Credits for Geothermal Heat Pumps, Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions",2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senator Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) and their Senate colleagues in a letter to U.S. Department of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen calling on the agency to issue guidance to ensure consumers and businesses can take full advantage of the clean energy tax incentives in the Inflation Reduction Act to deploy geothermal heat pumps (GHP). Passed as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, these incentives can greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from home heating and cooling and help make GHP systems more affordable for families and businesses in Colorado and across the country. “GHPs are among the most energy-efficient heating and cooling systems available for buildings, saving up to 50 percent on annual energy bills compared to fossil fuel-based systems. Currently, GHPs are approximately three percent of the residential HVAC market, and increasing their use can play a central role in meeting climate goals while providing reliable, affordable energy,” wrote the senators. The Geothermal Exchange Organization estimates that with this needed guidance from the Treasury Department, GHP systems could help prevent more than 64 million metric tons of greenhouse gas pollution and create more than 90,000 jobs. However, existing Internal Revenue Service (IRS) procedures could severely limit working families' and small businesses’ ability to take advantage of the tax incentives. In their letter, the senators call on the Treasury Department to release new guidance to ensure more Americans can access this technology by enabling third-party ownership models that allow homeowners to avoid expensive installation costs. Low- and moderate-income households particularly stand to benefit since they can least afford the higher up-front cost of GHPs and would gain the most from their efficiency. “The largest barrier to GHP adoption is the up-front cost required to install ground heat exchangers... Third-party ownership models – such as those used for residential solar energy systems – can help make the technology more affordable and accessible,” continued the senators. “We urge Treasury to swiftly take this step to ensure we maximize deployment of GHP systems and the IRA’s climate, energy reliability, and cost-savings benefits.” In addition to Senator Van Hollen, the letter led by Senator Bennet was signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.). The text of the letter is available HERE and below. Dear Secretary Yellen: We write to urge you to issue guidance to ensure consumers and businesses can take full advantage of the Inflation Reduction Act’s (IRA’s) tax incentives to deploy geothermal heat pumps (GHP). GHP deployment holds enormous potential to lower energy bills for American families and cut greenhouse gas emissions from heating and cooling for homes, schools, and businesses. GHPs are among the most energy-efficient heating and cooling systems available for buildings, saving up to 50 percent on annual energy bills compared to fossil fuel-based systems. Currently, GHPs are approximately three percent of the residential HVAC market, and increasing their use can play a central role in meeting climate goals while providing reliable, affordable energy. Specifically, we request you issue guidance clarifying that GHP systems are exempt from the “limited use property” doctrine. The largest barrier to GHP adoption is the up-front cost required to install ground heat exchangers (or “ground loops”) that, once in place, serve as heating and cooling infrastructure. Third-party ownership models – such as those used for residential solar energy systems – can help make the technology more affordable and accessible. Under this arrangement, a homeowner would pay little or no money up front, and instead make monthly payments to the third-party under a lease or energy services agreement – allowing the homeowner to avoid incurring a loan or making a capital investment. Low- and moderate-income households stand to benefit most from third-party ownership models since they can least afford the higher up-front cost of GHPs and would benefit the most from their efficiency. Section 13102 of the IRA increases the investment tax credit rate for GHPs to the full 30 percent through 2032 with a gradual step down thereafter, which creates a landmark opportunity for GHP deployment. However, there is uncertainty over how the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will apply the “limited use property” doctrine under Revenue Procedure 2001-28 to GHP systems. In order for a lessor to retain ownership of certain property for tax purposes, the doctrine requires that a lessor not transfer the property to the consumer for substantially all of the property’s useful life. Solar rooftop panels avoid the limited use property characterization since a third-party owner can remove them from one home and redeploy on another, even though this generally does not occur in practice. In a GHP system, it is not economical to move or remove a ground loop. Therefore, in a case where a GHP system only serves one household, the IRS could potentially deem the system limited use property and deny the lessor the ability to claim the Section 48 energy tax credit. We encourage the Treasury Department (Treasury) to issue guidance clarifying that GHP systems are exempt from the limited use property doctrine. Treasury has historically adjusted how broader tax rules are applied in cases where there is clear public benefit and congressional intent – e.g. in the case of wind facilities, historic buildings, energy services agreements for federal agencies, and carbon capture projects. In this case, Congress designed tax incentives in the IRA to accelerate clean energy deployment, and increased the rate for GHP’s to 30 percent primarily to enable third-party ownership models. The Geothermal Exchange Organization estimates that if Treasury provides a timely clarification, GHP systems can: Provide an additional 360,000 households, including low-income households, and over 230,000 commercial facilities and small businesses with low-cost geothermal heating and cooling by 2030; Create more than 90,000 good-paying jobs; and Avoid more than 64 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions. We urge Treasury to swiftly take this step to ensure we maximize deployment of GHP systems and the IRA’s climate, energy reliability, and cost-savings benefits. We look forward to hearing from you on this important matter. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-announce-agreement-with-white-house-on-offshore-wind-development-in-central-atlantic,"Van Hollen, Cardin Announce Agreement with White House on Offshore Wind Development in Central Atlantic",2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) joined the Biden-Harris Administration in announcing the proposed offshore wind lease sale of two previously announced parcels in the Central Atlantic Ocean to be held in 2024, along with a commitment to identify additional acreage off Maryland’s shores to be designated as Wind Energy Areas (WEAs) for lease in a second sale in 2025. This announcement comes after months of engagement between the Senators and Administration officials – including from the White House Climate Policy Office, the Department of Interior and Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), and the Department of Defense, among others – to ensure expanded acreage off of Maryland’s coasts will be available for offshore wind energy development so the state can continue making progress toward its climate and clean energy goals. “After a series of meetings and much dialogue with Biden Administration and key stakeholders, I am pleased that we have reached an agreement on offshore wind leasing in the Central Atlantic that ensures Maryland can continue to make progress toward achieving our wind energy deployment goals. We have done so while also protecting key national security and navigational safety priorities in these waters. Critically, we have worked with the Administration to identify additional areas to consider for wind development and secured their commitment to hold a second round of offshore wind lease sales in 2025. While there’s more work to do, this agreement is an important step toward increasing our energy security, fighting the climate crisis, and creating tens of thousands of good-paying jobs for American workers,” said Senator Van Hollen. “Offshore wind energy is a valuable alternative to fossil fuels, and expanding these projects puts us on the right track in achieving our clean energy goals,” said Senator Cardin. “Together, with the support of the Biden-Harris administration, we have greater opportunity to advance new offshore wind projects, create good-paying jobs and position Maryland to lead the offshore wind industry.” “The Biden-Harris administration is working hand in hand with our state partners nationwide to build a new American offshore wind industry, cut energy costs for families, and create thousands of good-paying jobs, all while tackling the climate crisis,” said President Biden’s National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi. “Thanks to the leadership of Senators Van Hollen and Cardin and Governor Moore, the future of Maryland’s offshore wind industry is bright. The Biden-Harris administration will continue to use every available tool to ensure American workers and communities reap the economic and environmental benefits of this growing industry in Maryland and across the country.” “Since the start of our administration, the Department of the Interior has approved the nation’s first six commercial-scale offshore wind energy projects. Today’s announcement is another step forward in the Biden-Harris administration’s pursuit of a clean energy future,” said Interior Secretary Deb Haaland. “We are taking action to jumpstart America’s offshore wind industry and using American innovation to deliver reliable, affordable power to homes and businesses, while also addressing the climate crisis.” “The power and promise of a clean energy future is undeniable. We join Maryland leaders in our enthusiasm for the potential for wind energy offshore Maryland and are committed to ongoing collaboration with federal and state partners, community leaders and ocean users to ensure that we are pursuing a solution that meets the moment,” said BOEM Director Elizabeth Klein. Since sending a letter in January 2023 urging the Biden-Harris Administration to maximize the leasing space available for offshore wind energy in the Central Atlantic Ocean, Senator Van Hollen and Team Maryland continued to engage regularly with Administration officials to ensure Maryland can lead the way in the clean energy transition and offshore wind development. In July, the lawmakers pressed the White House to coordinate with all federal agencies with interests in ocean use in order to keep offshore wind projects across the nation on track. Later that month BOEM released a WEA map that included the two areas being announced today – A1 and C2 – as well as a third parcel, B1 which was not found to be viable at this time. Senator Van Hollen and Team Maryland continued to work with these officials with the goal of unlocking as much Central Atlantic offshore wind energy acreage as possible while balancing other important federal ocean use priorities such as national security operations, navigational safety, and environmental health. As a result of these efforts, Team Maryland and the Administration reached the current agreement to both propose the lease sale of areas A1 and C2 and commit to further analyzing a new identified area of similar size and capacity of B1 for designation as a WEA to be offered in an additional lease sale as early as 2025. A second round of lease sales in 2025 will put Maryland, and the Central Atlantic states, on a path to reach our wind energy deployment goals. The current A1 and C2 sites, located off the Delmarva coast, cover enough acreage to power over 2.2 million homes with clean energy. The Biden-Harris Administration and State of Maryland will continue to evaluate additional WEAs in the Central Atlantic off Maryland’s shores that can advance the clean energy deployment and job creation goals of the POWER Act, passed by the Maryland General Assembly and signed by Governor Moore earlier this year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/12/raskin-beyer-advocate-for-strong-climate-standards-in-new-clean-hydrogen-tax-credit-implementation,"Raskin, Beyer Advocate for Strong Climate Standards in New Clean Hydrogen Tax Credit Implementation",2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC– Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD-08) and Don Beyer (VA-08) and 44 colleagues wrote the U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Climate Counselor Ethan Zindler urging the Treasury Department to adopt strong climate standards when implementing the Inflation Reduction Act’s Clean Hydrogen Production Tax Credit. The Clean Hydrogen Production Tax Credit incentivizes and rewards new clean hydrogen projects, which will encourage the adoption of greenhouse gas emission-free energy. Environmental groups, consumer advocates, and forward-thinking hydrogen companies alike have stressed the importance of ensuring hydrogen fuel is produced from clean energy sources, rather than unabated fossil fuels, coal plants or other dirtier energy sources. “The IRA’s incentives for clean hydrogen and other emerging technologies offer great promise in reducing emissions in difficult-to-decarbonize sectors,” wrote the lawmakers. “As the administration finalizes rules for the IRA’s 45V Clean Hydrogen Production Tax Credit, we strongly urge you to ensure that the guidance results in a net decrease in greenhouse gas emissions.” The lawmakers continued, “As policymakers, we must be attentive to the negative consequences of weak 45V rules for hydrogen production, which would imperil our climate goals and lead to significant U.S. emissions increases, including from Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs recently announced by the Department of Energy. Hydrogen production is extremely energy intensive, and absent strong rules, clean hydrogen production could result in emissions that are equivalent to running 26 more coal plants, taking us in precisely the wrong direction in our transition to clean, renewable energy. Strong rules will allow the U.S. to harness hydrogen’s most promising climate, health, and economic benefits, setting up our domestic clean hydrogen industry for long-term success.” Specifically, Representatives Raskin and Beyer express support for: The three pillars of sustainable hydrogen production endorsed by climate groups, consumer advocates, environmental justice organizations, renewable energy companies, state legislators, and forward-thinking hydrogen companies, which include: Additionality: Hydrogen should be generated using new, “additional,” renewable energy sources, not just the limited renewables currently supplying our power grid. Without this requirement, the energy-intensive hydrogen production will significantly increase energy usage and redirect the limited clean electricity towards hydrogen production, leaving polluting sources such as coal and natural gas to meet energy demand. Deliverability: Power generated by clean energy must be able to reach hydrogen production projects. Without deliverability requirements, clean energy produced in one region will not reach the hydrogen production plant, forcing local and dirtier generators to fill the gap and increase overall emissions. Hourly time-based matching: Hydrogen should be produced during the same hours that the clean electricity is being generated. This ensures that hydrogen production does not increase the use of energy from dirtier sources available at other times of day. Absent this requirement, hydrogen project operators may use up the limited low-cost clean energy resources for hydrogen production, forcing families to pay for higher-cost energy from fossil fuels. Preventing heavily polluting fossil fuel-based hydrogen projects from engaging in greenwashing and claiming the 45V credit. Ensuring that hydrogen projects accurately account for their total greenhouse gas emissions across their full lifecycles and do not cause spikes in electricity grid emissions and prices (as, for example, cryptocurrency mining has done). “Strong rules are crucial to ensuring a successful hydrogen sector that catalyzes cutting-edge electrolyzer technologies and enables the creation of truly clean global hydrogen markets, in line with international partners. In the EU, some industry groups fought hard against the 3-pillars, but after their announcement quickly changed focus to implementation. Even in the few months since the announcements, we have seen hundreds of millions of dollars of investments made into 3-pillar compliant projects in Europe and steady growth in announced projects,” said Killian Daly, an industry expert at EnergyTag. “Implementing the three pillars would send a clear message to the clean hydrogen industry that incentives will scale with performance. Many companies are eager to innovate, deploy investment in U.S. manufacturing and production, and ensure this public investment in decarbonization is a bridge to somewhere,” said Mike Sloan, CEO of Synergetic. “We urge Treasury to protect families from potential energy price spikes by implementing the three pillars of 1) additionality, 2) deliverability, and 3) hourly matching for electrolytic hydrogen producers seeking the 45V credit,” said Tyson Slocum, Energy Program Director at Public Citizen. Supporting organizations include the Natural Resources Defense Council, League of Conservation Voters, Sierra Club, Public Citizen, Evergreen Action, Environmental Defense Fund, Union of Concerned Scientists, Earthjustice, National Consumer Law Center, Chesapeake Climate Action Network AF, Climate Action Campaign, Western Environmental Law Center, Appalachian Voices and the Citizens Action Coalition, Electric Hydrogen, EnergyTag and Synergetic. Signers include Representatives Alma Adams, Nanette Barragán, Earl Blumenauer, Suzanne Bonamici, Julia Brownley, Greg Casar, Yvette Clarke, Emanuel Cleaver, Steve Cohen, Mark DeSaulnier, Adriano Espaillat, Robert Garcia, Raúl Grijalva, Jared Huffman, Henry Johnson, Ro Khanna, Barbara Lee, Ted Lieu, Doris Matsui, Jennifer McClellan, Betty McCollum, Morgan McGarvey, James McGovern, Eleanor Norton, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Brittany Pettersen, Katie Porter, Ayanna Pressley, Delia Ramirez, Deborah Ross, Janice Schakowsky, Adam Schiff, Robert Scott, Melanie Stansbury, Mark Takano, Shri Thanedar, Dina Titus, Rashida Tlaib, Jill Tokuda, David Trone, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Nikema Williams and Frederica Wilson. The letter can be found in full here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-doggett-lead-charge-to-curb-foam-container-pollution-to-protect-our-environment-improve-public-health,"Van Hollen, Doggett Lead Charge to Curb Foam Container Pollution to Protect Our Environment, Improve Public Health",2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) introduced bicameral legislation to phase out single-use plastic foam food service products, “loose fill” such as packing peanuts, and non-medical disposable coolers – materials known to cause adverse health effects and pollute waterways. The Farewell to Foam Act will prohibit the sale and distribution of these items beginning January 2026 while aiming to support the transition to alternatives. Additional Senate cosponsors of this legislation are U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ed Markey, (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). “Single-use plastics like foam food containers don’t disappear when you throw them away – they end up choking waterways like the Chesapeake Bay and contaminating our food supply. This pollution poses a serious, growing danger to human and environmental health and causes real economic harm to those whose livelihoods depend on our waterways,” said Senator Van Hollen. “By phasing out foam and encouraging the use of more sustainable packaging, we can tackle a major driver of pollution and improve the health of our communities.” “Plastic foam is a permanent polluter,” said Rep. Lloyd Doggett. “As trash clutters our waterways, roadsides, and greenspaces, foam doesn’t fully disintegrate. Instead, it ever so slowly degrades into microplastics that pollute our bodies and our planet. This legislation, informed by successful state and local plastic foam bans, seeks a cleaner, more sustainable future for our entire country by saying farewell to foam.” “As anyone who’s been on riverbanks or the coast can tell you, pollution in our waters is on the rise – threatening public health, economic security, and the future of our planet,” said Senator King. “The Farewell to Foam Act would phase out harmful foam food containers and single-use foam storage bins to protect our families and friends from ingesting these dangerous microplastics that have negative impacts on human health. We need bold action to tackle this global crisis, and this bill is a common-sense step we can take to reduce our dependence on this particularly harmful form of plastic.” “Our bill would help phase out plastic foam, one of the most pernicious plastics polluting our planet. This single use plastic often contains additional toxic additives and easily breaks down into microplastics—causing macro problems to our environment and health. Unrecyclable and already banned by several states, it’s time for us to enact the Farewell to Foam Act country-wide,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Plastic pollution is a serious crisis that harms our environment and human health, with disproportionate impacts on vulnerable communities. That is precisely why Vermont has banned single-use plastics, and the Farewell to Foam Act would do the same for polystyrene products across the country. This legislation will be critical to protecting the health and welfare of our communities, as well as tackling plastic pollution, which contributes significantly to climate change,” said Senator Welch. Expanded polystyrene (EPS), known more commonly as plastic foam, is one of the most harmful forms of single-use plastic. These materials, which also often contain other toxic additives such as flame retardants and colorants, are known to have negative impacts on human health, with links to central nervous system damage and increased risk of cancer. Additionally, they are difficult to recycle and prone to break up into tiny pieces – or microplastics – and often wash away into the environment, especially waterways. It is estimated that Americans use at least 5.6 billion pieces of plastic foam products each year. In 2019, Maryland became the first state in the U.S. to pass a law ending the use of plastic foam food service products. A study on the impact of the Maryland law conducted this earlier year found a 65 percent decrease in plastic foam food ware pollution on beaches and waterways in the state. Since then, ten additional states have passed similar measures. The Farewell to Foam Act aims to build on this progress and reduce plastic foam pollution nationwide by requiring food service providers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to transition their stock of EPS products such as food ware, coolers, and loose packing fill to alternative materials by January 1, 2026. The bill also authorizes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to impose escalating penalties on establishments that violate the EPS prohibition during one calendar year: $250 for the first violation, $500 for the second violation, and $1,000 for the third and subsequent violations. Service providers and retailers with annual revenue less than $1,000,000 and manufacturers and distributors with annual revenue less than $5,000,000 will not be penalized more than once during any seven-day period. The legislation provides exemptions for EPS material used for medical, industrial, or safety purposes. Bill text is available here. This legislation has been endorsed by Ocean Conservancy, Alice Ferguson Foundation, Alliance for a Living Ocean, Alliance for the Great Lakes, Bainbridge Beach Naturalists, Bainbridge Island Zero Waste, Beyond Plastics, Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper, Cape Fear River Watch, Center for Oceanic Awareness, Research, and Education, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Clean Miami Beach, Connecticut River Conservancy, Debris Free Oceans, Environment America, Environment Maryland, Fenceline Watch, Food & Water Watch, Fountain Creek Watershed District, French Broad Riverkeeper, Friends of the Chicago River, Healthy Climate Wisconsin, Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake, Keep Nassau Beautiful, Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, Kent Island Beach Cleanups-KIBCU, Little Falls Watershed Alliance, Love the Sea, Maryland Ornithological Society, Maryland PIRG, Milwaukee Riverkeeper, Moms Clean Air Force, MountainTrue, Natural Resources Defense Council, Nature Forward, The National Aquarium, Oceana, Operation SPLASH, Partners for Clean Streams, Inc., Plastic Pollution Coalition, Puget Soundkeeper Alliance, Reflo-Sustainable Water Solutions, Rock Creek Conservancy, Rozalia Project for a Clean Ocean, Rutherford Outdoor Coalition, Save The Bay, Save The River® Upper St. Lawrence Riverkeeper®, Safe Skies Maryland, Save the Sound, Seattle Aquarium, Sierra Club, Society of Conservation Biology North America, Surfrider, Sustainable Bainbridge, Tampa Bay Watch, Inc., The Last Beach Cleanup, The Last Plastic Straw, The Trash Free Maryland Advocacy Coalition, The 5 Gyres Institute, Tropical Audubon Society, Tybee Clean Beach Volunteers, Upstream, U.S. PIRG, VolunteerCleanup.org, Water Keeper Alliance, World Wildlife Fund, and Zero Waste Washington. “Polystyrene, or foam, is one of the most problematic types of plastic litter,” said Jennifer Driban, Chief Mission Officer at the National Aquarium. “Foam pieces are lightweight, allowing them to easily wash or blow into waterways where they quickly break down, become difficult to remove, and last for hundreds of years. Thankfully, policy efforts to limit the harmful impacts of foam pollution are highly effective. Following the enactment of legislation in Maryland to prohibit foam products in 2020, fewer foam containers have been collected during National Aquarium cleanups. Additional action is needed at the federal level to further reduce plastic foam pollution. The National Aquarium applauds Senator Van Hollen and Representative Doggett for their leadership of the Farewell to Foam Act.” “Since 1986, volunteers with Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup have collected nearly 9 million pieces of plastic foam foodware from beaches and waterways – that makes these items among the top ten most common single-use plastics polluting our shores,” said Nick Mallos, Vice President of ocean plastics at Ocean Conservancy. “To solve the ocean plastics crisis, we must produce less plastic, full stop. Phasing out these highly polluting, effectively non-recyclable items on a national level is a critical step towards achieving this goal. Ocean Conservancy is thrilled to see Congress say farewell to foam and applauds Senator Van Hollen and Rep. Doggett for leading the effort.” “Polystyrene foam is a pernicious plastic product that harms the environment and public health from its manufacture, use and disposal. Ending the unnecessary use of this toxic material is a critical step toward addressing the plastic crisis that threatens the health of people and the planet,” said Kate Donovan, Senior Attorney, NRDC. “Single use plastics are a growing problem and the effects on public health and environment are real. Switching from polystyrene to less damaging alternatives is an effective way to reduce single use plastics,” said Shari Wilson, Interim Executive Director, Trash Free Maryland. “I’m proud that Maryland was the first state to say farewell to foam because we know something we use for five minutes shouldn’t be allowed to pollute our community for hundreds of years. Now, whether we’re drinking hot chocolate in winter or having a refreshing snow-ball in summer, we’re doing so happily foam free and not having to worry about the long-lasting harm to our communities. Cheers to Senator Van Hollen and Rep. Doggett for their leadership on this critical issue,” said Emily Scarr, Director, Maryland PIRG. “Plastic is everywhere, from the Chesapeake Bay to the depths of the Pacific, where it harms whales, sea turtles, birds and other animals. One of the most damaging types of plastic pollution is polystyrene foam, which lasts for centuries after being used to keep our food hot or cold for just a few minutes. It’s time to choose wildlife over waste, and planet over plastic, and many states have now done just that. We thank Senator Van Hollen and Rep. Doggett for introducing this bill to say farewell to foam nationwide,” said Lisa Frank, Executive Director, Environment America Research & Policy Center’s Washington Office. “Plastic pollution is all around us and plastic foam is one of the most polluting materials – it is not recyclable and it easily breaks apart, leaking into nature and polluting environments across America. The Farewell to Foam Act, introduced by Senator Chris Van Hollen and Representative Lloyd Doggett, would phase out plastic foam over time, specifically focusing on food service ware, packaging fill, and single-use coolers. WWF supports this legislation as another important step forward in addressing the plastic pollution crisis,” said Alejandro Pérez, Senior Vice President, Policy and Government Affairs, World Wildlife Fund.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-durbin-kaine-schatz-and-colleagues-announce-amendment-requiring-that-use-of-us-supplemental-aid-comply-with-us-international-law,"Van Hollen, Durbin, Kaine, Schatz & Colleagues Announce Amendment Requiring that Use of U.S. Supplemental Aid Comply with U.S., International Law",2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Dick Durbin, (D-Ill.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), as well as Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) announced that they are working on an amendment to require that the weapons received by any country under the proposed national security supplemental are used in accordance with U.S. law, international humanitarian law and the law of armed conflict. The Senators’ amendment also requires that the president report to the Congress on whether countries receiving military equipment paid for by American taxpayers meet that test and whether the use of U.S-supplied weapons comports with established presidential directives on arms transfers and Defense Department policies for reducing harm to civilians. And it would buttress current law that prohibits U.S. security assistance to any country that prevents or restricts U.S. humanitarian assistance to those in need, subject to a presidential waiver. The amendment does not apply to funds for air defense systems or other systems that the president determines will be used for strictly defensive purposes. “U.S. taxpayer dollars have never come in the form of a blank check. It’s critical that we hold all nations who receive our assistance to the same standards – and that includes ensuring the use of this assistance is in line with U.S. law, international humanitarian law, and the law of armed conflict. We must also insist that our partners cooperate with us in allowing the delivery of humanitarian assistance. Our amendment does all that and puts in place necessary reporting to Congress in order to track these measures. As we work to provide critical funding in the national security supplemental, I look forward to working with my colleagues to address these fundamental issues,” said Senator Van Hollen. “The U.S. is an indispensable country in helping allied nations in times of conflict,” said Senator Durbin. “With any such assistance, including supplemental packages, we have a responsibility to ensure the aid follows U.S. and international law. With this amendment, we are reinforcing that key point and our American values.” “U.S. assistance to our allies and partners has always come with the expectation that they will follow international laws of war,” said Senator Kaine. “This global amendment reaffirms the need to protect innocent civilians caught in conflict zones and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to vulnerable populations. We must ensure that even as we stand with our partners and allies across the world, our support remains consistent with the core values and strong support for human rights expressed by the American people.” “Whenever we approve federal spending – whether it’s for things like public housing and highway repairs or our own Defense Department’s programs – we require detailed plans on exactly how the money will be used. We also expect to receive some form of reporting on it afterward. It should be no different for assistance funding we provide to allies around the world, including Israel. It’s our responsibility to make sure the funding and weapons we provide are used in a manner that’s consistent with international humanitarian law and American values,” said Senator Schatz. “When it comes to U.S. military aid to Israel, American support cannot be a blank check to a right-wing Netanyahu government that has demonstrated a gross disregard for the lives of Palestinian civilians. U.S. military aid always includes conditions, and there is no exception, even for our allies,” said Senator Warren. “The United States should never supply or sell weapons to any country without guarantees that they will be used in compliance with international law,” said Senator Merkley. “No exceptions.” “Ensuring civilians are protected and have access to adequate humanitarian assistance resources during times of conflict should be our first priority. Also essential is guaranteeing that U.S. weapons and defense articles sent overseas are used in compliance with international law. Senator Van Hollen’s amendment to the National Security and Supplemental Appropriations Act will further these goals. As we continue negotiations, I will keep advocating vigorously to the Biden Administration and Senate leadership for other changes to the legislation that address the accountability, ethicality, and transparency of arms sent abroad,"" said Senator Welch. “Our country stands for freedom and democracy, and both are grounded in our firm belief that innocent civilians should never be the target of war. It’s imperative that this commitment extends to ensuring our weapons are used only in accordance with U.S. law, international humanitarian law, and the law of armed conflict. I stand by Israel and I also join my colleagues in insisting on the clarity that Israel’s enemy in Gaza is Hamas - not the children, not Palestinian civilians,” said Senator Heinrich. “I’m glad to join my colleagues on this amendment, which reiterates that U.S. military assistance provided to our partners must be used in accordance with the law – particularly U.S. law and international humanitarian law,” said Senator Carper. “These principles are always imperative, but especially as we support those working to defend democracy around the world.” “This amendment will further ensure that American aid is used in accordance with international law and American values,” said Senator Hirono. “As we support Israel’s right to defend itself, we must continue working to create the conditions for a two-state solution and lasting peace in the region.” “It is imperative that all assistance to Israel abide by U.S. and international law, prioritize the protection of civilians, assure the provision of desperately needed humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza, and align with a long-term vision for peace, security, and two-state diplomatic solution. I thank Senator Van Hollen and my colleagues for working together on this measure to ensure all military aid to countries within the supplemental package adheres to well-established, existing U.S. and international law and to require reporting to Congress on the use of such aid,” said Senator Markey. The Senators’ amendment: Requires that the weapons received by any country under this bill are used in accordance with U.S. law, international humanitarian law and the law of armed conflict. Requires that the president obtain assurances that any country receiving weapons through this bill cooperate fully with U.S.-supported efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to those in need, subject to a presidential waiver. Requires that the president report to the Congress within 30 days on whether each country receiving U.S. security assistance through this bill is: Using U.S.-funded military equipment in accordance with: Their intended purposes and U.S. end-use monitoring programs; international humanitarian law, the law of armed conflict, and U.S. law; the President’s 2023 Conventional Arms Transfer (CAT) Policy and the Defense Department’s Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMR-AP); Fully cooperating with U.S. efforts and U.S.-supported international efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to civilians Clarifies that these provisions do not apply to funds for air defense systems or other systems that the president determines will be used for strictly defensive purposes.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/12/rep-raskin-statement-on-h-res-894,Rep. Raskin Statement on H. Res. 894,2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) released the following statement on H. Res. 894. “Antisemitism is a toxic, dangerous and lethal force in human history. It has appeared and reappeared in different forms and guises, but always as an enemy of the Jewish people, traditionally as a threat to reason and Enlightenment, and in our times as a gateway to destruction of liberal democracy and universal rights. “Historians have identified different kinds and strains of antisemitism which have combined and recombined over the ages: early Christian antisemitism; early Muslim antisemitism; European Medieval superstitions; the blood libel and false claims of ritual murder; the Holy Inquisition and Crusades; French nationalist antisemitism and the scapegoating of Captain Dreyfus; Czarist pogroms; fantastical conspiracy theories and the “Protocols of the Elders of Zion,” Nazi antisemitism, eugenics and totalitarian pseudoscientific racist ideology; Stalinist antisemitism; anti-intellectualism, antisemitic social snobbery and institutional exclusion; antisemitism dressed up in the language of anti-Zionism; Islamist and Hamas antisemitism; and right-wing neo-Nazi antisemitism, Holocaust denialism and anti-Jewish Christian white nationalism. This list is incomplete but suggestive of the breathtaking variety of forms, guises and manifestations of antisemitism. “It is an essential moral and political responsibility of citizens of constitutional democracies, like the United States, to oppose and denounce every form, guise and manifestation of antisemitism, as well as every other kind of racism and dehumanizing prejudice and superstition. In the House of Representatives, we have passed more than 20 Resolutions against antisemitism in the last two decades. We have treated all calls for the destruction of Israel or denial of Israel's simple right to exist as antisemitism. Just last week, the House voted overwhelmingly on a bipartisan basis to affirm Israel's incontestable right to exist. On Monday, I introduced with my colleagues Jerry Nadler and Dan Goldman another Resolution condemning antisemitism which is not only a statement of the problem but also the mobilization of a solution in the implementation of President Biden’s National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism. The strategy outlines a whole-of-society approach to confront resurgent antisemitism in the U.S. It provides over 100 actions that the government can take to increase awareness and understanding of antisemitism (including its threat to American values); to broaden appreciation of Jewish American heritage; to improve safety and security for Jewish communities; to reverse the normalization of antisemitism and counter antisemitic discrimination; and to build cross-community solidarity and collective action against hate. “By contrast, H. Res. 894, the Resolution introduced by Reps. Kustoff and Miller, offers no support for the Biden Administration’s National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism. It is merely a restatement of the problem, which might make it par for the course around here, but even as a restatement of the problem, it is flawed and unfortunately introduces serious new problems and confusions, both by omission and by commission. “To begin with, it strangely omits some of the most sinister and lethal manifestations of antisemitism in our time. For example, it does not mention the worst antisemitic massacre in U.S. history, the Tree of Life Synagogue attack in Pittsburgh, where the perpetrator, wielding an AR-15, killed 11 Jewish worshippers and wounded six others, among the victims several Holocaust survivors. The murderer was a right-wing anti-Jewish and anti-immigrant propagandist who promoted the racist and antisemitic Great Replacement Theory. Why would this massacre be excluded from the preamble of this Resolution while the authors include the protest at the Democratic National Committee last month where—whatever one thinks about its politics—no Jew or anyone else was killed and where the Resolution’s authors identify no antisemitic attacks or utterances? Even if the authors were exclusively focused on demonstrations in the vicinity of the Capitol, they did not need to go to the DNC to find one. To be more precise, why did they not mention the worst mass domestic violent attack on the Capitol in U.S. history, the violent insurrection of January 6, 2021, where some of the protesters wore T-shirts saying “Camp Auschwitz,” others brandished Confederate battle flags and swastikas, 150 of our police officers were seriously injured, seven people died and domestic violent extremist groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers led the attack? “There are other bizarre omissions in this Resolution, like the failure to identify Donald Trump’s trafficking in antisemitic tropes and conspiracy theories, including his infamous 2016 TV ad denouncing George Soros, Lloyd Blankfein and Janet Yellen as “globalists,” his identification of very “fine people on both sides” at the Charlottesville antisemitic “Unite the Right” Rally and attendant riot in August of 2017, and his consorting with antisemites and neo-Nazis like Nick Fuentes and Kanye West. The Resolution does not even mention Hamas’s antisemitic charter and pronouncements or the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s promotion of antisemitic teachings all over the world through its madrasa schools. But you get the point: this Resolution is not an honest attempt to describe antisemitism in its full magnitude and political complexity but a lopsided and transparently partisan maneuver, which is why there are only Republican sponsors of this Resolution. “Beyond everything it carefully leaves out, the Resolution actually introduces new conceptual confusions. In the only “Resolved” clause asserting a point we have not reaffirmed in Congress many times before, H. Res. 894 says that the House “clearly and firmly states that anti-Zionism is antisemitism.” “But this assertion is simply and demonstrably false, the mirror image of the old poisonous canard and myth that “Zionism is racism.” While a lot of traditional antisemitism today does indeed obviously camouflage itself as “anti-Zionism,” it is perfectly obvious that anti-Zionism is not, and cannot be, a synonym for antisemitism, for there have been—and are—tens of thousands of Jews who have opposed Zionism and the creation of a Jewish state. I remember from a young age my grandfather, who was a very strong liberal Zionist and champion of Israel, explaining to me that certain Hasidic and other sects of Orthodox Jews fought against creation of the Jewish democratic state in 1948 because they thought it was blasphemous and sacrilegious to anticipate and preempt the Messiah by creating a Jewish state before the Messiah’s arrival. It was the more liberal and secular Jews after World War II who insisted that the new Israeli state was an historical imperative as a place of permanent refuge for Jews fleeing Nazi violence and persecution throughout Europe and the Arab world. Indeed, every Jewish high school student in America who has read The Chosen by Chaim Potok—a coming-of-age novel about two boys post-World War II in New York who become best friends, one the son of a Modern Orthodox scholar and teacher who is a passionate champion of the founding of Israel and the other the son of a Hasidic Rabbi who is an equally passionate anti-Zionist—knows that the categorical claim that “anti-Zionism is antisemitism” cannot withstand any kind of serious critical or historical scrutiny. The Satmars and certain other Orthodox sects to this day continue to oppose the short-circuiting of the arrival of the Messiah which they believe is embodied in the creation of Israel. “Nor has Jewish opposition to the creation of Israel been confined to those who have a theological disagreement. For example, the only Member of the British Cabinet to oppose the Balfour Declaration in 1917 was, famously, its only Jewish Member, Edwin Samuel Montagu, who argued vehemently that he was a British citizen, not a member of the Israeli nation, and that a British Jew had no more in common with a French Jew than a British Christian had in common with a French Christian. He also argued that the creation of Israel would lead to antisemitic legislation in other societies: “When the Jews are told that Palestine is their national home, every country will immediately desire to get rid of its Jewish citizens, and you will find a population in Palestine driving out its present inhabitants.” This is obviously not my position on the matter, but I fail to understand the logic of denying obvious historical facts like this to serve ideological pretenses and historical fantasies. “It is intellectually dishonest to suppress the history of Hasidic, Satmar and certain other Orthodox sects’ opposition to the Jewish state, however much we might want to reject it, or to describe such opposition as antisemitic. It is similarly scandalous to try to insinuate that current political critics (in Israel, the United States or anywhere else) of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are, by definition, “anti-Zionist” and therefore “antisemitic” simply because they object to one official’s performance in office, his plans to undermine the power of the Israeli Supreme Court and judicial review, his potential responsibility for the security lapses in the south of Israel, his policies in the West Bank and Gaza, or any other policies of his government. “Real antisemitism is not only a pernicious ideology but also a profound character and personality disorder, as Christopher Hitchens argued, a disease that is fundamentally corrosive of your mind and your life. Surely America has no interest in misdiagnosing and falsely proliferating this awful disease by defining it in a sloppy and overly broad way. Antisemitism is virulent and dangerous enough on its own without conflating it entirely with other political phenomena and social ideologies. “The struggle against antisemitism and other types of fanatical irrationalism and prejudice today is a surpassing moral and ethical imperative, not the occasion for partisan mischief and ideological games. I will not vote for this Resolution.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-statement-on-tuberville-relenting-hold-on-military-promotions,Van Hollen Statement on Tuberville Relenting Hold on Military Promotions,2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) released the following statement after U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) announced he will lift his irresponsible hold on more than 400 military promotions awaiting confirmation by the Senate. “Senator Tuberville’s months-long publicity stunt has finally come to an end. It accomplished nothing but hurt our military families, weakened our armed forces’ readiness, and compromised our national security amid armed conflict and instability around the world. After nearly a year of obstruction, we have finally approved nearly all of these well-deserved promotions – including Vice Admiral Yvette Davids’ confirmation as Naval Academy Superintendent – finally making good on our promise to the hundreds of men and women in our armed services who have been waiting for this day.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mfume-team-maryland-joint-statement-on-virginia-delegation-s-latest-attempt-to-delay-fbi-headquarters-project,"Congressman Mfume, Team Maryland Joint Statement on Virginia Delegation’s Latest Attempt to Delay FBI Headquarters Project",2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Kweisi Mfume,M000687,mfume.house.gov,mfume,https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, members of Maryland’s federal, state, and local governments including Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Governor Wes Moore, Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Congressmen Dutch Ruppersberger (MD-02), John Sarbanes (MD-03), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), David Trone (MD-06), and Glenn Ivey (MD-04), and Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks released the following statement regarding the Virginia Delegation's letter to OMB, their latest attempt to delay the process: “In 2022, both the Virginia Delegation, as well as the Maryland Delegation, agreed that the GSA ought to make this site selection decision ‘expeditiously,’ to ensure the hardworking men and women of the FBI would have a headquarters that would meet their vital national security mission. “Now, the Virginia Delegation believes that the process should only move expeditiously if that decision benefits Virginia. As we have said before, we remain confident that any Inspector General evaluation will find what we know to be true: the Greenbelt site won on the merits. After assessing the facts, the GSA determined that Greenbelt offers the lowest price and best value to taxpayers, the shortest proximity to public transportation, the most schedule certainty to ensure the FBI can move to a new headquarters that meets its mission and security needs as soon as possible, and the greatest opportunity to advance the Biden-Harris Administration’s equity goals. “These processes can move in tandem and ought to – our national security and the men and women of the FBI deserve no less. The Inspector General evaluation has no bearing on the preparation of a prospectus for the new headquarters; therefore, the only thing the delay requested by the Virginia Delegation would accomplish is to subject the FBI employees and the general public to a dangerous, unhealthy environment and substantially increase the cost to the taxpayer.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/12/raskin-nadler-goldman-lead-resolution-condemning-antisemitism-call-for-implementation-of-the-u-s-national-strategy-to-counter-antisemitism,"Raskin, Nadler, Goldman Lead Resolution Condemning Antisemitism & Call for Implementation of the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism",2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Jerrold Nadler, Daniel Goldman, and Jamie Raskin introduced a resolution in response to the alarming rise of antisemitism in the United States. The resolution details the dramatic increase in antisemitic hate crimes over the last few years, particularly following the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas. It also notes the acute rise of antisemitism on college and university campuses. With this resolution, the Members commit to work to implement the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism. They call for bipartisan collaboration and a comprehensive, all-of-government response to combat antisemitism in the United States, including, for example, increasing funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. Additionally, Congress must provide robust funding for the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights to help enforce Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and help protect Jewish students from antisemitism. As the resolution makes clear, combating antisemitism is essential to the broader fight against all forms of hatred and to the defense of our democracy. “Surging global antisemitism—from the terrorist deeds of Hamas to the shocking propaganda of Elon Musk to the violence of extremist white supremacy—is the gateway to destruction of liberal democracy,” said Congressman Jamie Raskin. “Opposing antisemitism in all its forms is part of the responsibility of serious democratic citizenship. I’m proud to partner with Representatives Nadler and Goldman to advocate for the robust implementation of comprehensive strategies to stop antisemitism and violence as outlined in the Biden-Harris National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism.” ""All across our country, we are seeing an alarming rise in antisemitic hate following Hamas' October 7 assault on Israel,"" said Congressman Jerrold Nadler. ""We cannot allow this to become our new normal, as virulent hatred spreads through college and university campuses, on social media, and in our neighborhoods. With this resolution, Representatives Goldman, Raskin, and I are leading our colleagues in Congress to commit to implementing the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, an essential step to countering this dangerous trend."" “In the aftermath of Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel on October 7, already rising rates of antisemitism across the country have surged,” said Congressman Dan Goldman. “The normalization of antisemitism on our college campuses, on social media, and in our communities is reprehensible and unacceptable. This dangerous increase in anti-Jewish hate requires a comprehensive, bipartisan response. I am proud to join Congressman Nadler and Congressman Raskin in calling for the implementation of President Biden’s National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, to make clear that hate of any kind has no place in the United States.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/team-maryland-joint-statement-on-virginia-delegations-latest-attempt-to-delay-fbi-headquarters-project,Team Maryland Joint Statement on Virginia Delegation’s Latest Attempt to Delay FBI Headquarters Project,2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Members of Maryland’s federal, state, and local governments including U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (Md.-05), Governor Wes Moore, Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, Congressmen Dutch Ruppersberger (Md.-02), John Sarbanes (Md.-03), Kweisi Mfume (Md.-07), Jamie Raskin (Md.-08), David Trone (Md.-06), and Glenn Ivey (Md.-04), and Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks released the following statement regarding the Virginia Delegation's letter to OMB, their latest attempt to delay the process: “In 2022, both the Virginia Delegation, as well as the Maryland Delegation, agreed that the GSA ought to make this site selection decision ‘expeditiously,’ to ensure the hardworking men and women of the FBI would have a headquarters that would meet their vital national security mission. “Now, the Virginia Delegation believes that the process should only move expeditiously if that decision benefits Virginia. As we have said before, we remain confident that any Inspector General evaluation will find what we know to be true: the Greenbelt site won on the merits. After assessing the facts, the GSA determined that Greenbelt offers the lowest price and best value to taxpayers, the shortest proximity to public transportation, the most schedule certainty to ensure the FBI can move to a new headquarters that meets its mission and security needs as soon as possible, and the greatest opportunity to advance the Biden-Harris Administration’s equity goals. “These processes can move in tandem and ought to – our national security and the men and women of the FBI deserve no less. The Inspector General evaluation has no bearing on the preparation of a prospectus for the new headquarters; therefore, the only thing the delay requested by the Virginia delegation would accomplish is to subject the FBI employees and the general public to a dangerous, unhealthy environment and substantially increase the cost to the taxpayer.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mfume-leads-passage-of-two-bills-to-address-pandemic-fraud,Congressman Mfume Leads Passage of Two Bills to Address Pandemic Fraud,2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Kweisi Mfume,M000687,mfume.house.gov,mfume,https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the United States House of Representatives unanimously passed two bipartisan bills co-led by Congressman Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07) that address the ongoing issue of fraud in the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Relief Program and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). These bills were introduced alongside Congressman Roger Williams (R-TX-25), Chairman of the House Committee on Small Business, and Congressman Aaron Bean (R-FL-04). “The level of fraud in these programs reflects the years-long repercussions of a 2020 decision by the Trump administration to loosen anti-fraud protections during the pandemic,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. ""That is why I am proud to be the Democratic co-lead of this legislation, which ensures those who deliberately stole federal funds are not given a similar opportunity in the future, and ensures consistent reporting on progress towards returning stolen funds to the federal government and bringing white-collar criminals to justice,” he concluded. Image Click here or on the image above to view Congressman Mfume's remarks on H.R. 5427. These measures require the Inspector General of the Small Business Administration to submit a quarterly report on the fraud found in small business pandemic relief programs, and prohibits anyone convicted of crimes relating to financial misconduct or making a false statement with respect to a small business pandemic relief program from receiving non-disaster financial assistance from the Small Business Administration (SBA). This legislation originated in the U.S. House Committee on Small Business, where Congressman Mfume serves as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations, and Regulations. Additional Information on the PPP/EIDL Fraud Report Act of 2023 This bill was introduced by Congressman Mfume and Congressman Aaron Bean (R-FL-04). This legislation requires that the Inspector General of the SBA submit a report to Congress every 3 months that details the number of borrowers it has found to have engaged in fraud with respect to PPP loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program loans. This report shall include the total dollar amount of all covered loans that were made, the number and type of fraud found in both new fraud cases and suspected fraud cases, and the number of fraud cases resolved to date. This bill does not authorize any new appropriations. Additional Information on H.R. 5427 This bill was introduced by Congressman Mfume, alongside Congressman Roger Williams (R-TX-25), Chairman of the House Committee on Small Business, and Congressman Aaron Bean (R-FL-04). This legislation amends Section 16 of the Small Business Act by adding subsection “(h) assistance prohibition” which would: Prohibit individuals and entities that are finally convicted of a crime related to financial misconduct or making a false statement from receiving any non-disaster financial assistance from the SBA. Prohibit a private entity owned in whole or in part by or managed by any individual to be ineligible to receive any non-disaster financial assistance from the SBA.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mfume-statement-on-vote-to-expel-congressman-santos-from-the-us-house,Congressman Mfume Statement on Vote to Expel Congressman Santos from the U.S. House,2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MD,Kweisi Mfume,M000687,mfume.house.gov,mfume,https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07) issued the following statement regarding his vote to expel George Santos from the United States House of Representatives. ""Representative George Santos’ admitted lies, multiple indictments, egregious behavior, and deliberate misrepresentations of the truth which gave rise to his fraudulent undertakings were a historic and shameful stain on the institution of the Congress and cannot, nor should not, be tolerated. Today’s vote for his expulsion was an overwhelming reflection of this sentiment,"" said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mfume-team-maryland-joint-statement-on-the-gsa-inspector-general-s-notice-of-an-evaluation-of-the-site-selection-process,"Congressman Mfume, Team Maryland Joint Statement on the GSA Inspector General's Notice of an Evaluation of the Site Selection Process",2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Kweisi Mfume,M000687,mfume.house.gov,mfume,https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, members of Maryland’s federal, state, and local governments including Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Governor Wes Moore, Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Congressmen Dutch Ruppersberger (MD-02), John Sarbanes (MD-03), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), David Trone (MD-06), and Glenn Ivey (MD-04), and Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks released the following statement regarding the General Services Administration (GSA) Inspector General's notice of an evaluation of the site selection process: “Let us be perfectly clear: the new FBI headquarters project is moving forward. The GSA selected Greenbelt for the new, consolidated FBI headquarters based on the fact that it is the best site. Any objective evaluation will find that the GSA arrived at this decision after a thorough and transparent process. “After assessing the facts, the GSA determined that Greenbelt offers the lowest price and best value to taxpayers, the easiest access to public transportation, the most schedule certainty to ensure the FBI can move to a new headquarters that meets its mission and security needs as soon as possible, and the greatest opportunity to advance the Biden-Harris Administration’s equity goals. The GSA made its decision accordingly. Although some may not like that outcome, the GSA has clearly demonstrated that this process was transparent. “For the sake of our national security and the hardworking men and women of the FBI, it is imperative that we move expeditiously to build a new, state of the art consolidated headquarters that meets the FBI’s vital national security mission.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/team-maryland-joint-statement-on-the-gsa-inspector-generals-notice-of-an-evaluation-of-the-site-selection-process,Team Maryland Joint Statement on the GSA Inspector General's Notice of an Evaluation of the Site Selection Process,2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, members of Maryland’s federal, state, and local governments including U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-MD), Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Governor Wes Moore, Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, and Congressmen Dutch Ruppersberger (MD-02), John Sarbanes (MD-03), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), David Trone (MD-06), and Glenn Ivey (MD-04), and Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks released the following statement regarding the General Services Administration (GSA) Inspector General's notice of an evaluation of the site selection process: “Let us be perfectly clear: the new FBI headquarters project is moving forward. The GSA selected Greenbelt for the new, consolidated FBI headquarters based on the fact that it is the best site. Any objective evaluation will find that the GSA arrived at this decision after a thorough and transparent process. “After assessing the facts, the GSA determined that Greenbelt offers the lowest price and best value to taxpayers, the easiest access to public transportation, the most schedule certainty to ensure the FBI can move to a new headquarters that meets its mission and security needs as soon as possible, and the greatest opportunity to advance the Biden-Harris Administration’s equity goals. The GSA made its decision accordingly. Although some may not like that outcome, the GSA has clearly demonstrated that this process was transparent. “For the sake of our national security and the hardworking men and women of the FBI, it is imperative that we move expeditiously to build a new, state of the art consolidated headquarters that meets the FBI’s vital national security mission.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-brown-gillibrand-lujan-introduce-legislation-to-expand-community-schools-to-improve-student-outcomes,"Van Hollen, Brown, Gillibrand, Luján Introduce Legislation to Expand Community Schools to Improve Student Outcomes",2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) introduced The Full-Service Community School Expansion Act of 2023, a comprehensive bill to improve student outcomes by helping public schools and districts bring in wraparound support services including medical, mental, and nutrition health services, mentoring and youth development programs, technical assistance, and continuing education courses. Full-service community schools have a proven track record of producing tangible results for students – including advancing academic achievement and improving attendance. There are more than 450 community schools serving students across 22 of Maryland’s school districts. “Community schools provide for our students’ needs both inside and outside of the classroom – helping break barriers to success that underserved young people often face. Across Maryland these schools have made a positive difference in the lives of our students and their families. This bill will further invest in and expand community schools across the country to provide students with the top-notch education and resources to help them on their way to a bright future,” said Senator Van Hollen. This legislation would also provide essential resources for school districts to plan for, implement, expand, and renew full-service community schools, and would further develop the infrastructure to support these schools. The legislation is also sponsored by U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.). U.S. Representative Susie Lee (D-Nev.-03) is leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives. “Ohio has proven how successful full-service community schools can be at improving academic achievement and student attendance. By expanding the successful community schools strategy across the state, we can support the well-being of students and parents to help Ohio parents and communities thrive,” said Senator Brown. “Educators face monumental challenges trying to support students struggling inside and outside of the classroom. Underserved students are at a high risk of falling behind, and cash-strapped public schools have had limited funding to support them. The Full-Service Community School Expansion Act provides a solution,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This bill delivers vital resources, technical assistance, and infrastructure to support states, districts, and schools looking to implement or expand community schools. This expanded grant funding would allow for greater federal support for community schools across New York and the country to bolster student services through academic opportunities and mentoring programs, and provide critical nutritional, medical, and mental health services for students to thrive. I will keep working alongside my colleagues to pass this legislation and deliver critical funding to support the comprehensive needs of students both in and out of the classroom.” “When I was growing up in Nambe, it took a village, and today should be no different. The community school model helps bring community resources into school buildings to improve children’s well-being, especially in low-income and rural schools,” said Senator Luján. “Investing in our community schools is an investment in our future. Last year, New Mexico received its first-ever awards from the federal Full-Service Community Schools grant program, helping public schools in Albuquerque, Las Cruces, and Taos expand upon the groundbreaking work already being done in New Mexico. I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Full-Service Community School Expansion Act to reauthorize and strengthen this vital federal grant program to ensure more schools can adopt this holistic model to support children’s well-being.” “I spent more than two decades working with Nevada schools and students to strengthen our public education system, so I know firsthand that student success goes well beyond the classroom,” said Congresswoman Susie Lee. “When students have access to nutritional health services, tutoring, after-school programs, and mental health support, they perform better in school. But the sad reality is that far too many students don’t have access to these kinds of support systems. I’m proud to introduce the Full-Service Community Schools Expansion Act to invest in the health, stability, and academic achievement of our students by expanding wraparound services for the kids and families who need them most.” Specifically, The Full-Service Community School Expansion Act would: Invest $3.65 billion over the next five years to plan, implement, expand, and support full-service community schools serving low-income students; Provide renewable grant opportunities and additional resources to existing community schools to build collaborative leadership structures and strengthen wraparound services that support the needs of students, families, and neighborhoods. Build out community school infrastructure by funding the establishment of state-level teams that provide professional development opportunities and resources for community school staff, and collaborate with local education agencies on integrating supports for community schools; Ensure Tribes, Alaska Native Corporations, Native Hawaiian organizations, and Tribal organizations receive priority consideration in the application process and are included in stakeholder coordination efforts; Set aside up to 5% of funds for an elementary and secondary Bureau of Indian Education (BIE)-funded schools program for planning and capacity building, implementation, expansion, and renewal grants; and Set aside up to 5% of funds for technical assistance and support to leverage federal, state, and local resources that address healthcare and early childhood education, connect local education agencies with other statewide institutions, and inform LEAs of funding opportunities. The Full-Service Community School Expansion Act has been endorsed by a number of state and national organizations, including the Maryland Out of School Time Network, the Maryland State Education Association, the Public School Superintendents’ Association of Maryland, the National Education Association, the American Federation of Teachers, the National Indian Education Association, the Institute for Educational Leadership, the Coalition for Community Schools, First Focus on Children, the National Association for Elementary School Principals, the National Association for Secondary School Principals, MENTOR, Journey 4 Justice, the School Superintendents Association, Maryland State Education Association, Maryland Out of School Time Network, Public School Superintendents’ Association of Maryland, Communities in Schools New Mexico, Southwest Institute for Transformational (SWIFT) Community Schools, National Education Association New Mexico (NEA-NM), American Federation of Teachers New Mexico (AFT NM), ABC Community School Partnership, Nevada State Education Association, Communities in Schools of Nevada, Clark County School District. “Community Schools are transforming public education in Maryland and supporting student's academic and social/emotional recovery from the impacts of the pandemic. We need to double down on this strategy and support high-quality implementation, ongoing expansion, and provide school districts the resources they need to realize the potential of Full-Service Community Schools and sustain their progress,“ said Ellie Mitchell, Executive Director of Maryland Out of School Time Network. “Educators understand firsthand that learning does not happen in isolation. Community schools are a proven model that address the needs of the ‘whole child,’ ensuring that students and families have the community-centered support they need to succeed. The Full-Service Community School Expansion Act of 2023 would enable us to build upon this great work and bolster the efforts of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. We greatly appreciate Senator Van Hollen’s support for community schools in Maryland and across the country, and we ask Congress to take up this critical legislation,” said Cherly Bost, President of the Maryland State Education Association “The Public School Superintendents’ Association of Maryland is proud to support the reintroduction of The Full-Service Community School Expansion Act of 2023. Community schools are an innovative model that improve student performance by addressing their needs holistically and in partnership with their communities. PSSAM applauds Senators Van Hollen and Brown and their colleagues for this important legislation,” said Mary Pat Fannon, Executive Director of the Public School Superintendents’ Association of Maryland. “Community schools are one of the best ways to meet the academic, social and emotional needs of our students and their families. They make our public schools hubs in their neighborhoods, combining academics with extended and hands-on learning opportunities; family and community partnerships; and an infusion of medical, mental health and other social services to help meet the challenges students and families confront today, including learning loss, loneliness and literacy. Through meaningful collaboration with families and deep community engagement, community schools become centers of their communities and are able to meet students and families where they are and give them the support they need to succeed. We are fighting to make community schools the norm, not the exception, and Sen. Brown’s legislation will help get us there,” said Randi Weingarten, AFT President. “All students, no matter their race or ethnicity, gender, in urban, suburban, and rural communities, deserve a safe and welcoming school where they can thrive. Community schools play a critical role in delivering targeted and specific educational opportunities for students while also offering hope, opportunity, and transformation to entire communities,” said NEA President Becky Pringle. “The National Education Association commends Senator Sherrod Brown and Congresswoman Susie Lee for their leadership in introducing the Full-Service Community Schools Expansion Act of 2023, which would improve and increase the federal investment in the community schools program. They understand and share in the vision that every student must be prepared to succeed in a diverse and interdependent world, and this federal legislation helps put students on that path.” “The Coalition for Community Schools, including our hundreds of national, state, and local partners, are thrilled to support the Full-Service Community Schools Expansion Act of 2023. We were proud to work with Senators Brown, Van Hollen, Luján, and Gillibrand, and our community school leaders across the country to shape legislation that reflects the current best practices of community schools and to be bold in an appropriations level that recognizes the high need and demand across the country for this evidence-based strategy. We are grateful for the support and leadership of our Senate champions and of our House sponsor, Representative Susie Lee, and look forward to working with them and other members of Congress to champion this significant legislation,” said José Muñoz, Director of the Coalition for Community Schools, Institute for Educational Leadership.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-statement-on-pcaobs-historic-action-sanctioning-foreign-firms-to-better-protect-american-investors,Van Hollen Statement on PCAOB’s Historic Action Sanctioning Foreign Firms to Better Protect American Investors,2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) released the following statement regarding the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s announcement today that the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) has imposed sanctions on three PCAOB-registered public accounting firms in China and Hong Kong. These sanctions represent the first time ever – pursuant to the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act, authored by Senators Van Hollen and Kennedy – that foreign companies operating on U.S. markets are held accountable following the law’s implementation of rigorous audits to ensure all companies operating on U.S. markets are held to the same standards and to reduce risk for American investors. “Foreign companies operating on U.S. markets should be held to the same standards across the board. That’s why I introduced – and worked to enact into law – the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act. Today’s action by the PCAOB confirms what we long expected: not all companies are playing by the rules. This historic move both holds accountable bad actors attempting to take advantage of our markets and protects American investors, including retirees, parents building their child’s college funds, and many others. I’m glad to see the PCAOB crack down on these firms to ensure compliance with our market standards, just as our Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act intended.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:33:57Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-schatz-reed-release-statement-following-white-house-meeting-on-situation-in-israel-and-gaza,"Van Hollen, Schatz, Reed Release Statement Following White House Meeting on Situation in Israel & Gaza",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Jack Reed (D-Rhode Island) released the following statement on their meeting yesterday with White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and over a dozen of their colleagues to discuss the letter the Senators led with 23 of their colleagues to President Biden condemning the brutal terror attacks by Hamas, expressing support for immediate funding to replenish Israel’s defensive systems, and seeking information on two clear U.S. priorities: supporting an Israeli strategy that will effectively degrade and defeat the threat from Hamas and taking all possible measures to protect civilians in Gaza. “Following the brutal terror attacks that Hamas conducted against Israel, America has stood united in our support for Israel’s duty to defend itself and hold Hamas accountable. As we noted in our letter, we believe the U.S. should immediately provide Israel with funding to support this effort, including funds to replenish its defensive systems. “But to better understand the efficacy of U.S. funding that supports Israel’s operations inside Gaza, we requested answers from the President on how these funds are being used in order to ensure they support an Israeli strategy that will effectively degrade and defeat the threat from Hamas while taking all possible measures to protect civilians in Gaza. In our letter to President Biden, we raised several key issues, including maintaining a focus on returning hostages, reducing civilian casualties, delivering humanitarian aid, establishing a plan for post-war governance and the future of the region, and addressing extremist violence in the West Bank. During yesterday’s briefing, we had an opportunity to discuss with the Administration each of the questions raised in our letter. “As we expressed in the meeting, we are grateful for their leadership in negotiating a temporary ceasefire to secure the release of many hostages and to allow some desperately needed humanitarian assistance into Gaza. We also expressed our appreciation for President Biden’s strong statements on the rising extremist settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank as well as their intention to place visa restrictions and their consideration of other forms of sanctions, on these extremist settlers. We support these efforts. “But as the end of the temporary ceasefire looms ahead, we must do more to ensure the protection of innocent civilians. With the Netanyahu government’s indication that it intends to continue its ground invasion into the South and Khan Yunis, humanitarian considerations must remain front and center. This city – at the heart of southern Gaza – has nearly doubled in population as many of the 1.7 million Palestinians who have fled the north in compliance with IDF orders have sought refuge there. To aid civilians, as we noted in our letter, ‘we must not only do our part to provide urgently needed humanitarian relief to Gaza, but also insist that Israel take all necessary measures to help us facilitate such relief.’ “We are gravely concerned that a resumption in fighting threatens to once again renew the high rate of civilian casualties and further deepen the humanitarian crisis. We expressed these concerns in our meeting, and we appreciated the Administration’s acknowledgment of these issues. We are committed to working with the President and his Administration to address these concerns and to secure assurances from the Netanyahu coalition on them. “As we made clear yesterday, this meeting was not a substitute for a public response to our questions – the Administration must provide transparent responses to the American people on these matters – but we appreciated the opportunity to discuss these issues in depth. “We continue to support additional assistance to Israel in the aftermath of the brutal Hamas attacks – but we are all in agreement that this assistance must be consistent with our interests and values and used in a manner that adheres to international humanitarian law, the law of armed conflict, and U.S. law. We need to find a better path toward helping Israel achieve legitimate military and security objectives. U.S. assistance has never come in the form of a blank check – regardless of the recipient.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/11/raskin-joins-wasserman-schultz-fitzpatrick-in-bipartisan-letter-to-appropriators-to-fund-fight-against-antisemitism,"Raskin Joins Wasserman Schultz, Fitzpatrick in Bipartisan Letter to Appropriators to Fund Fight Against Antisemitism",2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC –Today, Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) joined Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) in sending a letter to top House and Senate appropriators requesting funding to implement the first-ever U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism in response to the surge of hate crimes, discrimination, and threats against the American Jewish community. The lawmakers wrote, “We hope that the strong bipartisan and stakeholder support for the President's plan to reverse the spread of hatred will be reflected in our nation’s budget.…Congress must step up and deliver funding to support the American Jewish community.” The letter was signed by a total of 51 bipartisan members, including Reps. Raskin, Wasserman Schultz and Fitzpatrick as well as Reps. Gabe Amo, Jake Auchincloss, Don Bacon, Suzanne Bonamici, Shontel Brown, Vern Buchanan, Kathy Castor, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Yvette Clarke, Gerald Connolly, Angie Craig, Donald Davis, Lloyd Doggett, Lois Frankel, Maxwell Frost, Daniel Goldman, Jenniffer González-Colón, Josh Gottheimer, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Derek Kilmer, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Greg Landsman, Barbara Lee, Susie Lee, Ted Lieu, Nicole Malliotakis, Kathy Manning, Lucy McBath, Grace Meng, Marcus Molinaro, Jared Moskowitz, Jerrold Nadler, Jimmy Panetta, Dean Phillips, Patrick Ryan, Maria Salazar, Janice Schakowsky, Bradley Schneider, Terri Sewell, Darren Soto, Haley Stevens, Eric Swalwell, Ritchie Torres, David Trone, Juan Vargas, Marc Veasey, Susan Wild, and Nikema Williams. The letter, addressed to Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-ME), as well as House Appropriations Chair Kay Granger (R-TX) and Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), is supported by the Anti-Defamation League, the American Jewish Committee, Jewish on Campus, and Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America. The letter highlights a range of activities mentioned in the National Strategy, including the Department of Education’s enforcement of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which protects students and faculty from campus discrimination, Nonprofit Security Grants to safeguard synagogues and Jewish organizations, and the prevention and prosecution of hate crimes by the Department of Justice. “Surging on-line antisemitism and the kind of violence we saw at the Tree of Life Synagogue make clear the urgent need for robust implementation of the Biden-Harris administration’s National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism,” said Rep. Raskin. “Antisemitism and racism are gateways to the destruction of liberal democracy. It is essential that Congress act quickly to provide the funding necessary to jumpstart this crucial effort to combat dangerous discrimination.” “President Biden and Vice President Harris have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to protecting American Jews from harm,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. “The National Strategy provides a roadmap for how government, interfaith leaders, and community members can respond to antisemitism flourishing in our schools, our streets, and our social media feeds. If we fail to provide resources to these objectives, the result will be more pain and devastation for the Jewish community.” “Antisemitism has no place in America, period. The rise of antisemitism on college campuses and in public spaces after Hamas’ brutal, unprovoked attack on Israel is disturbing,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick, Co-Chair of the House Bipartisan Task Force for Combatting Antisemitism. “I’m proud to lead this bipartisan letter to House and Senate appropriators urging them to prioritize funding for the national strategy to combat antisemitism. Congress must stand with the Jewish community in the face of the vile antisemitism that is plaguing our nation.” The full text of the letter is below: ________________________________________ Dear Chair Murray, Vice Chair Collins, Chair Granger, and Ranking Member DeLauro, As you enter into negotiations to reconcile House and Senate Fiscal Year 2024 spending measures, we write to urge robust funding to implement the National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism. We hope that the strong bipartisan and stakeholder support for the President's plan to reverse the spread of hatred will be reflected in our nation’s budget. Antisemitism is on the rise. Last year, the Anti-Defamation League tracked 3,697 antisemitic incidents, from propaganda to bomb threats to armed assault, the highest number on record — a mark that has been eclipsed three times in the past five years. The FBI documented a 37% increase in antisemitic hate crimes in 2022. Antisemitism has become commonplace on college campuses, with many Jewish students fearing that they will be targeted for discrimination. The rise of antisemitism has been accelerated by digital platforms that profit from hateful content, with 85% of Jewish young adults reporting firsthand experience with online antisemitism, according to the American Jewish Committee. All of this took place prior to Hamas terrorists’ horrific assault on Israelis, which has led to even more prevalent antisemitic conspiracy theories, disinformation, and incitement of violence in our country and around the world. ADL preliminary data indicates that following the October 7 massacre by Hamas, incidents of harassment, vandalism and assault increased by 388 percent. In response to these alarming statistics, President Biden presented a comprehensive blueprint for how our government and society can eradicate antisemitism, and subsequently ordered all relevant federal agencies and departments to apply Title VI of the Civil Rights Act to curb discrimination against Jews. Congress must step up and deliver funding to support the American Jewish community. We urge you to provide funding in excess of the President’s request for the Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights, which is on the front lines of the fight against antisemitism and plays a central role in enforcing Title VI protections for students and faculty. Education is a powerful tool for preventing hate from taking root, but these efforts cannot succeed in an environment where antisemitism is tolerated. We also strongly support funding for programs that provide America’s public schools with resources to teach K-12 students about historic and modern antisemitism, the Holocaust, and the positive contributions of Jewish Americans. We strongly recommend including funding in excess of the President’s request for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which offsets the cost of physical security enhancements for religious, educational, and nonprofit community institutions, including Jewish organizations. Synagogues and schools have been targeted with vandalism, destruction, and violent attacks by extremists who hold Jews collectively accountable for Israel’s actions, striking fear into congregations and civil society leaders. We are grateful that both chambers of Congress have supported this program and we share the President’s desire for updates to improve access. In addition to defending Jewish spaces, we must work together to provide state and local law enforcement with the capacity to bring an end to surging hate crimes against Jews. An important part of this work is fully funding Department of Justice grants dedicated to monitoring, preventing, and prosecuting hate crimes so we can protect our communities from being victimized by offenders who might otherwise avoid consequences. As digital platforms allow hate to spread without regard for borders, we also emphasize our support for efforts to advance the global fight against antisemitism in the State Department, led by the Offices of the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism and the Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues. We ask that you fund these critical programs at the appropriate levels to demonstrate to the American people that Congress is united and unequivocal in its dedication to the fight against antisemitism.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/11/reps-raskin-goldman-demand-elon-musk-x-leadership-enforce-platform-guidelines-to-address-surging-misinformation-antisemitic-and-violent-content,"Reps. Raskin, Goldman Demand Elon Musk, X Leadership Enforce Platform Guidelines to Address Surging Misinformation, Antisemitic and Violent Content",2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD-08) and Dan Goldman (NY-10), along with 25 colleagues in the House of Representatives, wrote ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) owner Elon Musk and Chief Executive Officer Linda Yaccarino demanding X address failures in applying its anti-misinformation and anti-violence policies to Hamas terrorist propaganda. Following the October 7 terrorist attacks against Israel, analysts have documented surging graphic violent content and misinformation on the platform, including Hamas’ terroristic propaganda videos. Much of this content violates X’s platform policies, which prohibit “engaging in or promoting violent acts,” and “recruiting, or providing or distributing services (such as media/propaganda) to further stated goals.” “Several weeks ago, reports from multiple nonprofit research groups showed X Premium accounts spreading Hamas terrorist propaganda videos glorifying barbaric acts of violence against Israelis,” wrote the lawmakers. “Further, these reports demonstrated that X is profiting from the spread of this gruesome and harmful propaganda through account subscription fees and ad revenue.” The lawmakers continued, “As of today, most of the terrorist propaganda posts flagged by [EU researchers] inexplicably remain live on your platform. Given the many flagrant examples of X profiting off this content, we need detailed answers from X in considering potential legislation that would prevent such activity in the future.” Reps. Raskin and Goldman called on X to abide by its regulatory policies, particularly its ‘violent and hateful entities’ guidelines, and provide answers to the following questions about persistent misinformation and violent content on X. The lawmakers wrote, “We also ask that you provide written responses to the following questions: Please explain how these violating posts and accounts were allowed to remain live for days after their policy violations had been publicized? What action does X plan to take about Hamas-related content currently on the platform? What changes does X intend to implement to ensure that the harmful spread of terrorist propaganda does not happen again?” The letter is available here in full. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/11/reps-raskin-mcgovern-urge-biden-administration-to-protect-children-of-israel-gaza-and-the-west-bank,"Reps. Raskin, McGovern Urge Biden Administration to Protect Children of Israel, Gaza and the West Bank",2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD-08) and Jim McGovern (MA-02) wrote President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken urging the administration to continue working to ensure the safety of infants and children living under terror and violence in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank. The lawmakers, joined by 25 cosigners, reiterated the importance of protecting children suffering from the devastating consequences of war as the United States works to secure the immediate release of all hostages and send humanitarian aid to civilians in the region. The lawmakers wrote, “If our world can agree on nothing else, surely we can agree that children must be protected from the horrific consequences of terrorism and war; that the endangerment of children, and grave violations of their rights and physical safety, by terrorist attacks and in armed conflict must end immediately; and that it is long past time to stop this cycle of violence and trauma that has ruined the lives of far too many children.” Pregnant women, infants and children were targets during the October 7 terrorist attacks against Israel, and children have been among the casualties of the aerial bombardment of Gaza and the recent settler violence in the West Bank. The October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel killed 1,200 people in Israel, among them at least 38 children and babies, with others left orphaned. While several adult hostages were released by Hamas, more than 240 persons remain in captivity, including 32 children, and many hostages, including nursing mothers, have been separated from their infants and children. The aerial bombardment and war in Gaza has left at least 11,078 Palestinians dead, nearly half of those casualties children and babies. At least 2,260 Palestinians in Gaza, including at least 1,270 children, have been reported missing by the United Nations and are presumed to be either trapped under the rubble still awaiting rescue or dead. During this same time, Israeli forces or settlers have killed at least 41 Palestinian children in the occupied West Bank. The letter is available here in full. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-baldwin-kaine-lead-colleagues-in-calling-for-immediate-steps-to-deliver-humanitarian-aid-to-gaza-and-protect-civilians,"Van Hollen, Baldwin, Kaine Lead Colleagues in Calling for Immediate Steps to Deliver Humanitarian Aid to Gaza and Protect Civilians",2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) led their colleagues in urging President Biden to work with Israel and international partners to implement a plan that will protect innocent civilian life in Gaza, deliver sustained humanitarian aid, and work toward the long term goals of ending Hamas’s threat, bringing hostages home, and achieving sustainable peace in the region through a two-state solution. In the letter to President Biden, the senators call for the protection of civilians and civilian sites, the opening of the Kerem Shalom border crossing, and access to prompt medical attention for civilians injured to help address the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. “As you and your administration work with Israel and international partners to secure the release of hostages and respond to the terror attack on Israel, we join you in your urgent call for humanitarian assistance for Palestinian civilians in Gaza. We encourage you to work with international partners to achieve expeditious implementation of a plan for sustained humanitarian aid in Gaza. We hope you’ll join us in encouraging our ally Israel to take immediate steps to help provide critical humanitarian aid to the innocent civilians in Gaza, including re-opening the Kerem Shalom border crossing to allow life-saving water, food, and fuel to reach vulnerable civilians,” the senators wrote. The senators continued, “We are concerned that increased and prolonged suffering in Gaza is not only intolerable for Palestinian civilians there but will also negatively impact the security of Israeli civilians by exacerbating existing tensions and eroding regional alliances.” The senators concluded, “This conflict will not be solved by force alone. Preservation of and respect for innocent life is both morally right and the best hope for a long-term strategy to accomplish security, stability, and peace in the region.” In addition to Senators Van Hollen, Baldwin, and Kaine, Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) also signed the letter. The full letter can be found here and below: Dear Mr. President, As you and your administration work with Israel and international partners to secure the release of hostages and respond to the terror attack on Israel, we join you in your urgent call for humanitarian assistance for Palestinian civilians in Gaza. We encourage you to work with international partners to achieve expeditious implementation of a plan for sustained humanitarian aid in Gaza. We hope you’ll join us in encouraging our ally Israel to take immediate steps to help provide critical humanitarian aid to the innocent civilians in Gaza, including re-opening the Kerem Shalom border crossing to allow life-saving water, food, and fuel to reach vulnerable civilians. Hamas’s October 7th terrorist attacks on Israel were nothing short of horrific. Israel has the right and the obligation to defend its people against these unspeakable horrors, to seek the release of hundreds of innocent hostages, and to ensure Hamas can never carry out a massacre like this again. We also believe that while Israel works to defeat Hamas, Israel must employ all possible measures to protect innocent civilians in Gaza. It is important for Israel to take every step possible to make clear it is defending Israelis against Hamas, not waging war on Palestinians. Eliminating the threat posed by Hamas and protecting civilians are not mutually exclusive aims. Indeed, International Humanitarian Law requires that civilians be protected during armed conflict. It is hard to overstate the scale of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. The United Nations estimates 1.6 million Palestinians are internally displaced within the Gaza Strip, a land area comparable to twice the size of the District of Columbia. It is estimated that half of the displaced civilians are in make-shift United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) shelters. It is largely unknown where the remaining displaced civilians are seeking shelter. The United States must urge Israel to work with international relief agencies to facilitate safe and adequate accommodations for displaced individuals, and the United States must make clear that no non-combatant individuals should be compelled to leave Gaza. This humanitarian crisis will precipitate a significant, and preventable loss of human life if not addressed immediately. More than half of Gaza’s hospitals have shut down, desalination plants are struggling to remain operational, and the last operative flour mill has been shut down due to a lack of fuel. We recognize the urgent need to fulfill your emergency supplemental request for necessary security assistance to help Israel defend itself and humanitarian assistance to civilians impacted by the war. As we work to secure the needed humanitarian funds in bipartisan legislation, we also expect our international partners to share the responsibility to improve the conditions of life in Gaza. Moreover, the conflict cannot leave Gaza so destroyed and devastated that there is no possibility for Palestinians to return to their communities and rebuild. We are concerned that increased and prolonged suffering in Gaza is not only intolerable for Palestinian civilians there but will also negatively impact the security of Israeli civilians by exacerbating existing tensions and eroding regional alliances. Professional militaries have a dual responsibility throughout their campaigns to minimize civilian casualties during tactical operations and to sustain living conditions for civilians. We therefore urge you to communicate to the Israeli government and other relevant parties that the ongoing military operations must provide for: The protection of civilians and civilian sites, in coordination with the relevant United Nations organizations. The sustained delivery of the basic essentials of life (including water, food, medical and hygiene supplies and fuel for transportation of such essentials) in quantities sufficient to meet the current need. To do so, the Kerem Shalom border crossing between Israel and Gaza, the main access point for supplies before October 7, must reopen to facilitate the proper inspection and delivery of larger quantities of aid and the reopening of this crossing must become part of the humanitarian support plan. Access to prompt medical attention for sick and wounded civilians, both within Gaza as well as the option to evacuate to a neighboring country. Through United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and UN vetting and oversight processes, the U.S. must help ensure that the humanitarian aid and protections afforded civilians are not used or exploited by Hamas or other terrorist organizations operating in Gaza. Lastly, there must be hope for the future. We worry the current trajectory of the conflict moves us further away from our shared goals of ending Hamas’s threat and removing them from power in Gaza, bringing hostages home, and achieving sustainable peace in the region through a two-state solution. Mr. President, it is in our national interest that you clearly articulate that vision. To these ends, we urge you to define a U.S. vision for the future of Israel and Palestine as well as the role our country will play in encouraging a peaceful resolution and rebuilding. Part of this vision must not only include two sovereign states for Israelis and Palestinians, but an expectation of equal treatment under law, including a serious effort to address violence committed by a minority of Israeli settlers against Palestinian residents of the West Bank. This conflict will not be solved by force alone. Preservation of and respect for innocent life is both morally right and the best hope for a long-term strategy to accomplish security, stability, and peace in the region.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/11/representative-raskin-hosts-seventh-annual-federal-employee-health-benefits-forum,Representative Raskin Hosts Seventh Annual Federal Employee Health Benefits Forum,2023-11-17,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"In his seventh annual forum, Rep. Raskin provides an update on health care legislation and discusses the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program with Jay Fritz from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), Tammy Flanagan from National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE), and Kevin Moss from Washington Consumers’ Checkbook. These experts share guidance on choosing health plans. Below is a collection of healthcare resources for federal employees. OPM: https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/open-season/ NARFE: https://www.narfe.org/ Consumers’ Checkbook Guide to Health Plans for federal employees: www.guidetohealthplans.org Maryland State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): https://aging.maryland.gov/Pages/state-health-insurance-program.aspx Montgomery County: 301-255-4250 Prince George’s County: 301-265-8471 Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP): https://www.benefeds.com/",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/11/reps-swalwell-raskin-and-wild-lead-group-of-55-members-in-urging-secretary-of-state-blinken-to-address-extremist-settler-violence-against-palestinians-in-the-middle-east,"Reps. Swalwell, Raskin, and Wild Lead Group of 55 Members in Urging Secretary of State Blinken to Address Extremist Settler Violence Against Palestinians in the Middle East",2023-11-17,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-CA), Congressman Jamie Raskin (D-MD), and Congresswoman Susan Wild (D-PA), led a letter with 55 members of Congress to Secretary of State Antony Blinken urging him to address escalating violence in and along the West Bank that threatens a two-state solution. With recent reporting of increased Palestinian deaths at the hands of extremist settlers and Palestinians being forcibly driven from their homes, the Representatives urge the United States to re-engage in negotiations for lasting peace and a two-state solution. “While the world has been focused on Gaza, the situation in the West Bank has also deteriorated rapidly since October 7,” the Members write in a letter. “Your leadership in realizing a two-state solution is critical and your attention to the crisis in the West Bank is necessary during this conflict. We cannot allow extremist settlers to use this crisis as an opportunity to expand illegal settlements in the West Bank.” The letter is signed by 58 members of Congress, including Representatives Balint, Beyer, Blumenauer, Bonamici, Andre Carson, Cartwright, Casar, Casten, Chu, Cleaver, Cohen, Connolly, Crockett, Davis, Dean, DeLauro, DelBene, Deluzio, DeSaulnier, Doggett, Escobar, Evans, Sylvia Garcia, Al Green, Grijalva, Hayes, Huffman, Jayapal, Hank Johnson, Kamlager-Dove, Kaptur, Kuster, Barbara Lee, Lofgren, McCollum, McGovern, Nadler, Norton, Ocasio-Cortez, Peters, Pingree, Pocan, Raskin, Ruiz, Salinas, Schakowsky, Sewell, Adam Smith, Stansbury, Swalwell, Takano, Tonko, Trahan, Velazequez, Watson Coleman, Wild, & Williams Click hereto read the letter, or read the full text below: Dear Secretary Blinken, As strong supporters of the United States-Israel relationship, we watched in horror on October 7 as Hamas mounted a vicious terror attack against Israel, murdering more than 1,400 Israelis. We thank you for your leadership during this difficult time. The conversations you have had with leaders in the Middle East are critical for helping to secure the release of hostages and for addressing the dire and deepening humanitarian crisis. It will also address Israel’s need to ensure that atrocities like those perpetrated by Hamas on October 7 never occur again. As you continue to engage with our partners and allies in the region, we urge you to always protect the possibility of achieving our ultimate goal – a two-state solution where Israelis and Palestinians live side by side in peace, mutual security, and prosperity. While the world has been focused on Gaza, the situation in the West Bank has also deteriorated rapidly since October 7. Your leadership in realizing a two-state solution is critical and your attention to the crisis in the West Bank is necessary during this conflict. As National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan rightly stated, it is the responsibility of the Israeli government to “rein in” extremist settlers in the West Bank. We agree with him that “it is totally unacceptable to have extremist settler violence against innocent people in the West Bank.” Since the Israel-Hamas War began, there has been a growing number of documented incidents in which settlers attack nearby Palestinian communities, at times escorted by Israeli soldiers. According to recent reports, in the month following the October 7 terror attack, multiple Palestinians deaths by Israeli security forces and settlers occurred in the West Bank. More than 1,100 adults and children were forcibly driven from their homes following settler violence. These actions are a serious violation of basic human rights and endanger the possibility of a two-state solution. Recent reports from October 28 draw our attention to a disturbing episode in which settlers, accompanied by Israel Defense Forces personnel, attacked residents in the Palestinian community of Susya in the South Hebron Hills. It is our understanding that settlers also threatened the village with an ultimatum to evacuate within 24 hours or face further violence and intimidation. We are profoundly concerned that the forced displacement of Susya would further embolden violent settler attacks and intimidation against the surrounding Palestinian communities. With several of the undersigned members on this letter having seen firsthand the extraordinary levels of deprivation and other challenges faced by the people of Susya, we are particularly disturbed by these developments. Therefore, we urge you to immediately and strongly convey to the Israeli government its responsibility to uphold the rule of law in the West Bank and protect all civilians under its jurisdiction, while holding perpetrators of vigilante attacks and intimidation to account. The destabilizing consequences of vigilantism and lawless displacement of Palestinians in the West Bank threaten to expand the current war to another dangerous front. We cannot allow extremist settlers to use this crisis as an opportunity to expand illegal settlements in the West Bank. We echo President Biden’s concern that attacks by “extremist settlers” amount to “pouring gasoline” on the already raging fires in the region. Instead, it is vital that the United States make every effort to stabilize the West Bank by strengthening the Palestinian Authority (PA). A robust and empowered PA is essential for creating an environment conducive to peace negotiations and social progress. We appreciate your diplomatic initiatives to address this issue, as well as the vital coordination that is being done by the United States Security Coordinator for Israel and the PA. We urge continued efforts to strengthen the PA’s effectiveness, which is vital for the realization of peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians. As you noted in your testimony to the Senate Appropriations Committee on October 31, the PA is operating under significant resource constraints. Your advocacy for releasing tax revenues underscores the importance of providing the PA with the necessary financial resources needed to stabilize the West Bank. By strengthening the PA, we can enhance its ability to uphold the rule of law, protect civilians, and deter extremist elements in the West Bank. As the President said on October 19, “the decisions we make today are going to determine the future for decades to come.” Our decisions must keep the meaningful prospects of a two-state solution alive. The prevailing atmosphere of violence and lawlessness in the West Bank undermines the potential for a successful two-state outcome. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/11/statement-of-congressman-jamie-raskin-november-17-2023,"Statement of Congressman Jamie Raskin, November 17, 2023",2023-11-17,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) released the following statement calling for the immediate release of the 239 hostages captured by Hamas, an end to the violence in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank, and a forward-looking strategy to ensure peace and security for all people in the region. “Now is the time for American strategic, diplomatic and political leadership to press for a breakthrough change in the relentless and dangerous dynamics of war and violence. The world has seen enough death and destruction. “We must work with Israel and all our democratic allies, as well as the United Nations, to end the horrific carnage of this war that began on October 7, 2023, with Hamas’s vicious terrorist attack. We must establish the framework for a just and durable peace and the democratic reconstruction of the region. “The multilateral negotiations taking place right now under the auspices of Qatar should be a first step towards a forward-looking strategy providing hope for peace, justice, and the end of terrorism. In order to succeed, the world must accomplish these basic components: The immediate release of all 239 hostages being unlawfully held by Hamas (and other terrorist groups). The immediate cessation of hostilities against any civilian targets in order to save the lives of endangered women, children, infants and other noncombatants. A mutually agreed-upon bilateral humanitarian pause or mutually agreed-upon ceasefire to provide for a “global humanitarian surge” of aid to hundreds of thousands of displaced and suffering innocent civilians throughout Gaza. The removal of Hamas from operational control of Gaza and the initiation of multilateral negotiations, which include the Palestinian Authority, to arrive at the long sought-after but much-derailed two-state solution, focused on the creation of a democratic sovereign Palestinian state and the reinforcement of the security of a democratic Israel, both with safe and permanent borders. This should be accompanied by the initiation of indictments and prosecutions of the planners and perpetrators of the terrorist violence of October 7. A Marshall Plan-style global reconstruction effort channeling the energies and resources of the world not into violence and war but into peace, social and municipal rebuilding of devastated areas in Gaza and Israel, and a renewed investment in education, health, social welfare and the rule of law to nourish the growth of democracy in the Middle East. “We live in a time of extraordinary challenge and difficulty. The world needs a lot more hope and vision to break the cycles of violence and hatred that have cost thousands of lives just this month. “It is natural for all of us to feel helpless before the magnitude of all this violence and suffering. But we must not despair. We must instead do whatever we can to stand by the rule of law and to work together for peace and security for all.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/in-response-to-the-peoples-republic-of-chinas-dominance-in-the-industry-van-hollen-joins-warner-rubio-colleagues-in-push-to-support-critical-mineral-projects,"In Response to the People’s Republic of China’s Dominance in the Industry, Van Hollen Joins Warner, Rubio, Colleagues in Push to Support Critical Mineral Projects",2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"In response to China’s continued dominance of the critical mineral supply chain, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senators Mark R. Warner (D-Va.) and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) alongside a group of bipartisan colleagues in a call for action to secure supply chains and reduce U.S. reliance on the People’s Republic of China (PRC) for minerals that are inputs for critical technologies, including through increased government support to U.S. private sector companies investing and operating in critical mineral projects. This is the latest step that the Intelligence Committee leaders have taken to counter China’s dominance of this growing industry. In a letter to the Biden administration, the senators highlighted the exploding demand of critical minerals and their growing importance to U.S. national security, while pointing out the U.S. is falling behind its adversaries in efforts to secure the global critical mineral supply chain. The senators wrote, “Demand for critical minerals is growing exponentially, yet the U.S. substantially lags behind its adversaries in securing critical mineral supply chains. In fact, in many cases China controls nearly 100 percent of the end-to-end supply chain, and is actively seeking to maintain and increase its control of these resources around the globe.” Outlining key areas where improvement is needed to expand domestic capabilities, the senators requested that the administration take a series of steps to ensure U.S. support to domestic industry, to strengthen internal coordination across government agencies, and to formulate a strategy for U.S. collaboration with our allies, to combat China’s growing dominance in this space. They continued, “Focusing the efforts of the U.S. government, in coordination with our allies, upon standing up processing, refining, and metallurgical capacity must be a priority if we are going to succeed in reducing our reliance on China for critical minerals.” In addition to Senator Van Hollen, the letter led by Senators Warner and Rubio was signed by U.S. Senators James Lankford (R-Okla.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.). Full text of the letter can be found here and below. Dear Mr. Hochstein, We write to highlight the urgent need to secure our supply chains of critical mineral resources essential for national and economic security, and to urge specific action by the White House to reduce U.S. reliance on supplies of these minerals under the control of our adversaries. As the Biden administration has confirmed, critical minerals are essential components underpinning U.S. critical infrastructure and military systems, from cars, to our grid, to weapons and defenses. Demand for critical minerals is growing exponentially, yet the U.S. substantially lags behind its adversaries in securing critical mineral supply chains. In fact, in many cases China controls nearly 100 percent of the end-to-end supply chain, and is actively seeking to maintain and increase its control of these resources around the globe. The U.S. must support public and private efforts to reduce our critical minerals dependency on China, which has demonstrated its willingness to block our access to such minerals. China’s announced controls on the export of graphite in October 2023, following its export restrictions on germanium and gallium in July 2023, underscores the need for diverse and reliable supply sources led by the U.S. and our allies. On October 18, a bipartisan group of Senators convened key industry, investors, and government officials to discuss how the U.S. can better support public and private investment in and operation of critical mineral projects at home and abroad. The U.S. Development Finance Corporation (DFC), the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), State Department’s Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), Industrial Base Policy at the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Department of Energy’s Loan Program Office (LPO), among others, are, encouragingly, making positive steps to build additional capacity to support U.S. and allied industry in the competition for mineral resources. However, the U.S. remains far behind China’s efforts in this space. The roundtable raised three substantial issues, in particular: First, while certain agencies are providing important tools to support key critical minerals projects, we want to ensure agencies are coordinating internally across the government, and externally with the private sector. China provides substantial support to its state-owned companies and nominally private firms through financial assistance and heavy diplomatic engagement to secure foreign projects. China is known for engaging in a range of unfair tactics, including influencing local officials to maintain control of resources. The U.S. must have strong coordination both internally and with the private sector to help ensure U.S. companies can effectively compete against our adversaries. Specifically: Internally, relevant programs – such as DFC, EXIM, USTDA, MSP, DoD, and DOE LPO – should coordinate on applications for critical minerals projects, including on conducting due diligence of private sector vetting, to avoid unnecessary redundancies and delays. Relevant agencies should also establish and collaborate on best practices. This should include coordination with U.S. Executive Directors at multilateral development banks (MDB), so that U.S. taxpayer-funded initiatives at MDBs do not compete with U.S. agencies. Externally, agencies should ensure the private sector has access to the information needed to access U.S. investment tools. Currently, many private sector companies do not have an understanding of what government tools currently exist, or who to contact across the government for financial or diplomatic help engaging in projects abroad. While individual agencies have held roadshows to communicate their services to private companies, more can be done to communicate the broad array of support the U.S. government can provide. There is not, for example, a public facing coordinator for private sector companies attempting to secure U.S. investment tools, or attempting to navigate foreign local governments and processes. Indeed, many U.S. companies admit they currently cold call embassies abroad when bidding for projects, and as a result often lose out to Chinese projects, backed by the Chinese government. Second, the current U.S. government toolkit lacks many of the tools our allies and adversaries possess in providing the type of financial support needed for critical mineral projects. For example, unlike many of our allies and our adversaries, the U.S. lacks funding or debt for the sourcing and production of strategic commodities, or sufficient equity investment for projects in riskier jurisdictions. U.S. companies already are hesitant to invest in critical mineral markets, in part due to China’s ability to create volatile markets through manipulative trade practices. To ensure our private sector can invest and operate in critical mineral projects, the U.S. must consider additional tools for its financial agencies. Third, the U.S. government must focus on investing in processing, refining, and metallurgical capacity in the U.S. and allied countries to circumvent China’s industrial infrastructure, which it uses as a pinch point to control the global market. China has gained control over much of the global supply chains and market for critical minerals by heavily subsidizing its heavy industry, serving as one of few locations where raw materials can be processed into value-added products and components. Standing up value-added industrial capacity in the U.S. and friendly jurisdictions will provide a clear alternative option for raw material producers to enter into offtake agreements with U.S.-aligned interests, as well as for end users to source reliable volumes of finished goods. Focusing the efforts of the U.S. government, in coordination with our allies, upon standing up processing, refining, and metallurgical capacity must be a priority if we are going to succeed in reducing our reliance on China for critical minerals. To address these challenges, we respectfully request that the Administration establish a coordinating mechanism or comprehensive policy to: Require relevant U.S. government agencies to coordinate, share information, and synchronize processes when evaluating private sector critical minerals projects to prevent duplication of work and ensure companies are receiving the best possible information; Ensure the private sector has access to and information on all relevant U.S. government tools at their disposal, including financial and diplomatic; and Identify existing gaps and potential flexibilities in existing U.S. financial tools needed to support investment in and operation of critical minerals projects. We respectfully request that you brief the relevant committees of jurisdiction on the Administration’s efforts to address these issues within 60 days, including identifying any statutory changes needed to provide additional tools to government agencies to support private sector investment in critical mineral projects. We stand ready to assist in this effort. The work to diversify our critical mineral supply chains is urgent, and we look forward to working with you on this important challenge.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-foreign-relations-democratic-senators-statement-on-president-bidens-meeting-with-prc-president-xi-jinping,"Van Hollen, Cardin, Foreign Relations Democratic Senators Statement on President Biden’s Meeting with PRC President Xi Jinping",2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) in issuing the following statement on President Biden’s meeting with President Xi. “We welcome the progress between President Biden and the People’s Republic of China’s President Xi, particularly on fentanyl, climate cooperation, and military-to-military communications. These are some of the most pressing issues in our bilateral relationship and we applaud President Biden for his leadership in engaging with the People’s Republic of China to address them. While China has taken some long-overdue steps to curb the production and shipment of fentanyl and fentanyl precursors, Beijing must do much more to stop this illicit trade. It is absolutely critical that we have bilateral mechanisms in place for regular follow up with Beijing in order to measure tangible progress on ending this deadly trade that has led to the loss of countless American lives. We stand ready to work to ensure Beijing lives up to their commitments. “Responsible management of the U.S.-China relationship is critical to the United States and to our allies and partners around the world. While challenges between Washington and Beijing persist on a number of issues, including Taiwan, human rights, and the unjust and unlawful detention of American citizens in China, open dialogue between our two leaders remains critical. We hope that the U.S. and China can build on this progress going forward.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-cardin-democratic-senators-in-letter-supporting-the-biden-administrations-recent-diplomatic-efforts-with-venezuela,"Van Hollen Joins Cardin, Democratic Senators in Letter Supporting the Biden Administration’s Recent Diplomatic Efforts with Venezuela",2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) along with Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Ben Luján (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) in sending the following letter to the Biden administration expressing their support for the recent use of sanctions relief as leverage to facilitate a negotiated electoral agreement between Venezuela’s democratic opposition and the Maduro regime. The letter also urges the Biden administration to stand ready to impose new sanctions should the Maduro regime fail to abide by their commitments and make additional progress on human rights issues. “We write to express our support for the Biden administration’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to forge a negotiated solution to resolve Venezuela’s political and humanitarian crisis, including your decision to provide limited sanctions relief in response to the electoral agreement reached between the democratic opposition’s Unitary Platform and the Maduro regime in Barbados on October 17,” wrote the Senators. “The decision to provide such sanctions relief is consistent with our long-standing belief that U.S. sanctions are most effective when we use them as a tool to prompt changes that advance U.S. national interests. Our message is clear: free and fair elections in which all candidates are able to participate provide the best pathway for Venezuelans to determine their future.” “At the same time, though, we are aware of the Maduro regime’s failure to honor past commitments and the credible accusations of its involvement in crimes against humanity,” the Senators continued. “To that end, we urge you to reimpose sanctions absent concrete steps by the regime to implement the Barbados agreement. Consistent with the agreement, the Maduro regime must also make additional progress on human rights issues, including taking steps to release, by the end of November, opposition figures and the three wrongfully detained Americans held in the country: Eyvin Hernandez, Jerrel Kenemore, and Joseph Ryan Cristella.” A copy of the letter can be found here and below. Dear Secretary Blinken and Secretary Yellen, We write to express our support for the Biden administration’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to forge a negotiated solution to resolve Venezuela’s political and humanitarian crisis, including your decision to provide limited sanctions relief in response to the electoral agreement reached between the democratic opposition’s Unitary Platform and the Maduro regime in Barbados on October 17. The decision to provide such sanctions relief is consistent with our long-standing belief that U.S. sanctions are most effective when we use them as a tool to prompt changes that advance U.S. national interests. Our message is clear: free and fair elections in which all candidates are able to participate provide the best pathway for Venezuelans to determine their future. At the same time, though, we are aware of the Maduro regime’s failure to honor past commitments and the credible accusations of its involvement in crimes against humanity. To that end, we urge you to reimpose sanctions absent concrete steps by the regime to implement the Barbados agreement. Consistent with the agreement, the Maduro regime must also make additional progress on human rights issues, including taking steps to release, by the end of November, opposition figures and the three wrongfully detained Americans held in the country: Eyvin Hernandez, Jerrel Kenemore, and Joseph Ryan Cristella. If fully implemented, the agreement between the Unitary Platform and the Maduro regime will help lay the groundwork for more competitive elections in Venezuela next year. Under the agreement, the Maduro regime has committed to hold presidential elections in the second half of 2024, respect the opposition’s ability to choose its own candidates, invite independent international election observers, update the electoral registry, and ensure equal access to the media by all candidates. Given the breakdown of past negotiations with the Maduro regime, the agreement reached in Barbados represents a diplomatic breakthrough, one that was only made possible through the Biden administration’s strategic use of U.S. sanctions relief as leverage in the negotiations. Additionally, we welcome Secretary Blinken’s October 18 public statement setting forth additional expectations that the Maduro regime must meet by the end of November, namely establishing a process for reinstating opposition candidates and releasing wrongfully detained opposition figures and U.S. citizens. However, while we strongly believe that a negotiated solution to Venezuela’s political and humanitarian crisis is the only path forward to end the misery and suffering of the Venezuelan people, we are under no illusions that commitments made by the Maduro regime can be taken at face value. Already, less than two weeks since it signed the agreement, the regime is pursuing a criminal investigation against the organizers of the recent opposition-organized presidential primaries and the regime-allied Supreme Court has moved to annul the primaries’ results. Such actions are unacceptable and belie the sincerity of Maduro’s commitments to allow credible, competitive elections next year. Going forward, it is imperative that the United States and international community closely monitor implementation of the Barbados agreement. We urge you to make it unequivocally clear to Maduro and his allies that continued efforts to breach the letter and spirit of this agreement— including not allowing the winner of the opposition’s primary, Maria Corina Machado, to be eligible for next year’s election— will result in the swift roll back of sanctions relief. We also urge you to make it similarly clear that any current or future sanctions relief is conditioned on the regime fulfilling both what was agreed to with the Unitary Platform and the additional expectations explicitly articulated in Secretary Blinken’s October 18 public statement. Venezuelans should determine their future at the ballot box. We sincerely hope that history will remember the October 17, 2023, electoral agreement between the Unitary Platform and the Maduro regime as the first tangible step towards restoring Venezuelan democracy and ending the political and humanitarian crisis that has forced almost 8 million Venezuelans to flee their homeland. However, without sustained pressure from the international community to hold Maduro accountable in the coming months, including a credible commitment by the Biden administration to reimpose sanctions, as necessary, the agreement may be remembered as nothing more than another entry on Maduro’s record of broken promises to the Venezuelan people. You have our full support in your efforts to ensure that is not the case. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-hirono-murkowski-kaine-in-reintroducing-resolution-calling-on-us-senate-to-ratify-un-convention-on-the-law-of-the-sea,"Van Hollen Joins Hirono, Murkowski, Kaine in Reintroducing Resolution Calling on U.S. Senate to Ratify UN Convention on the Law of the Sea",2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, on the 29th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) entering into force, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senators Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) in introducing a resolution calling on the U.S. Senate to ratify UNCLOS. UNCLOS, which has been ratified by 168 nations and the European Union, details the rights and responsibilities of countries regarding the world’s oceans, including guidelines for businesses and the management of marine natural resources, and provides a legal framework to protect those rights while avoiding conflict. “Sitting on the sidelines of UNCLOS not only undermines our standing to advocate for international freedom of navigation and the protection of our oceans – it also undercuts our ability to protect our own national security and commercial interests in the seas. It is critical that the U.S. ratify this Convention so we can more credibly defend international law of the sea,” said Senator Van Hollen. “More than twenty years after UNCLOS took effect, the U.S. is one of just a handful of signatories that has not ratified it, preventing us from engaging in important international conversations about our oceans and seas,” said Senator Hirono. “This long overdue step would help strengthen our national security, expand oceanic access for maritime industries, and support efforts to preserve the environmental health of our oceans. Ratifying UNCLOS enables the U.S. to participate in the decision making process regarding our planet’s oceans and seas.” “The longer we sit out, the longer the rest of world will continue to set the agenda of maritime domain, from seabed mining to critical subsea infrastructure,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski. “Ratifying the Law of the Sea Treaty will help us keep China’s illegal territorial advances at bay in the South China and is also critical to our national interest in the maritime domain, especially as other Arctic nations look to define their rights to seabed areas beyond their existing exclusive economic zones. It is time for America to not just join the world at the table, but to make sure we are helping to set the rules going forward.” “Ensuring our seas remain free and open is critical to protecting our economy and our national security. U.S. ratification of UNCLOS would underscore our commitment to freedom of navigation worldwide and the importance of this agreement. As Chairman of the Armed Services’ Subcommittee on Seapower and a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, I’ll keep working with my colleagues to make progress on this issue,” said Senator Kaine. “The United States must be in the conversation when it comes to defining international maritime laws,” said Dr. Cassidy. “While the U.S. dallies, Russia and China are moving into seabed mining. UNCLOS will protect our domestic shipping industry, national security, and economic security by ensuring we are able to compete with existing monopolies at sea.” “America is an Arctic Nation, but as we fail to assert our rights, we allow rival countries – near-Arctic nations and otherwise – to seize opportunities in our maritime territory,” said Arctic Caucus Co-Chair Senator Angus King (I-Maine). “Signing on to the United Nation Convention on the Law of the Sea would give us our rightful seat at the table for international conversations about territorial rights, navigation, environmental protections and economic opportunities – especially in the race for critical minerals that will unlock our technological future. That’s why ever military official I have met with has said it would assist in advancing America’s interests and strengthening our security. The High North offers historical possibilities for America’s future, but we are holding ourselves back by standing still.” UNCLOS is a comprehensive legal framework governing all uses of the world’s oceans and seas, and their resources. It also allows for further development of specific areas of the law of the sea. It is the globally recognized framework for dealing with all matters relating to the law of the sea, governing areas including, but not limited to, environmental control, marine scientific research, economic and commercial activities, and the settlement of disputes relating to ocean matters. The treaty was opened for signature on December 10, 1982 and was entered into force on November 16, 1994. The United States signed UNCLOS on July 29, 1994, but the U.S. Senate has not yet voted to ratify the treaty, despite urging from environmental, scientific, labor, and industry organizations. In addition to Senator Van Hollen, the resolution led by Senators Hirono, Murkowski, and Kaine is cosponsored by Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-announce-over-2-million-to-strengthen-infrastructure-resiliency-at-the-city-of-havre-de-grace,"Van Hollen, Cardin Announce Over $2 Million to Strengthen Infrastructure Resiliency at the City of Havre de Grace",2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) announced $2,505,500 for critical infrastructure improvements to the City of Havre de Grace in Harford County. The federal funding, provided by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s (NFWF) National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) grant program, will support efforts to strengthen resiliency and reduce flood risk in the community while protecting endangered, threatened, and declining species in the Chesapeake Bay. These improvements are critical to the preservation and protection of this waterfront community, and were made possible in part by the senators’ work to pass the Inflation Reduction Act. “Flooding and shoreline erosion threaten our waterfront communities, our Bay economy, and the renowned charm of towns like Havre de Grace. That’s why we fought to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, and invest in boosting our infrastructure resiliency. This federal funding will help improve the safety of Havre de Grace’s homes and businesses while protecting our treasured Chesapeake Bay,” said Senator Van Hollen. “In Maryland, our wetlands are some of our best defenses against rising sea levels and storm surge. Preparing our coastal communities for the impacts of climate change and strengthening coastal habitats can and should go hand in hand,” said Senator Cardin. “This grant, awarded from National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s National Coastal Resilience Fund, understands that. Strengthening Maryland’s coastal resiliency is more important than ever as we continue facing the impacts of climate change.” The City of Havre de Grace faces threats from rising sea levels, intensifying storms, and changing rainfall patterns. Senators Van Hollen and Cardin have long fought for efforts to strengthen Maryland’s coastal resiliency which also advance Chesapeake Bay restoration. In addition to the $2.6 billion the senators secured in the Inflation Reduction Act to support coastal resiliency across the country, the senators also secured historic investments through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act totaling $238 million targeting the Chesapeake Bay region, including $40 million for the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Chesapeake Stewardship Fund. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation is a government non-profit dedicated to sustaining, restoring and enhancing the nation’s fish, wildlife, plants, and habitats for current and future generations. NFWF advances its mission through public and private partnerships that invest financial and intellectual resources into science-based programs to address conservation priorities and achieve measurable outcomes, including initiatives like the National Coastal Resilience Fund. The NCRF invests in conservation projects that restore or expand natural features such as coastal marshes and wetlands that minimize the impacts of storms, sea level rise and other coastal hazards on nearby communities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-praise-biden-nominee-nicole-berner-for-us-court-of-appeals-for-4th-circuit-maryland-seat,"Van Hollen, Cardin Praise Biden Nominee Nicole Berner for U.S. Court of Appeals for 4th Circuit Maryland Seat",2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) today praised President Joe Biden’s nomination of Maryland attorney Nicole Berner to fill a vacant Maryland seat on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. “Throughout her career, Nicole Berner has provided outstanding legal representation to advance the rights of working families and historically underrepresented communities — demonstrating her commitment to delivering equal justice to all. Her diverse legal experience shows that she is dedicated to the rule of law, fairness, and the principles of democracy, which is why I enthusiastically support her nomination to serve the American people on the Fourth Circuit. As the first openly LGBTQ nominee for the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, Nicole would also break glass ceilings in our judicial system. We look forward to advancing her nomination through the Senate,” said Senator Van Hollen. “Nicole Berner has been fighting for civil rights and worker rights throughout her career and we are excited to have her bring this experience and deep knowledge of the law to the federal bench in Maryland. As the general counsel of the 2-million-member strong Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Ms. Berner oversees their legal work in complicated areas of the law, including labor, healthcare regulation, and immigration. With this background, I am confident that she will uphold the judicial oath to ‘do equal right to the poor and to the rich,’” said Senator Cardin. “I also appreciated the opportunity to meet with Ms. Berner recently and was pleased to hear that she intends, if confirmed, to have her judicial chambers in the Baltimore Courthouse to better be a part of the diverse and vibrant Maryland legal community.” Ms. Berner has been nominated to fill the vacancy created when Judge Diana Gribbon Motz took senior status in September 2022. Judge Motz was appointed to the Fourth Circuit by President Bill Clinton in 1994. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit is one of twelve regional appellate courts within the federal judicial system and sits just below the United States Supreme Court. The Fourth Circuit is headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, and hears appeals from nine federal district courts in Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, and from federal administrative agencies. NICOLE BERNER Nicole G. Berner is General Counsel to the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), where she has practiced as in-house counsel since 2006. Previously, Ms. Berner served as a staff attorney for Planned Parenthood Federation of America in Washington, D.C. from 2004 to 2006. She worked as a litigation associate at Jenner & Block LLP in Washington, D.C. from 2000 to 2004 after working as a visiting attorney at Yigal Arnon & Co. in Jerusalem, Israel, from 1999 to 2000. Ms. Berner served as a law clerk for Judge Thelton E. Henderson on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California from 1997 to 1998 and for Judge Betty B. Fletcher on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit from 1996 to 1997. She received her J.D., Order of the Coif, from University of California, Berkeley, School of Law, and her M.P.P. from the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California, Berkeley in 1996. She received her B.A., Phi Beta Kappa, from the University of California, Berkeley in 1988. Berner is a longtime resident of Montgomery County, Maryland. She has been an active member of her synagogue and community, and lives with her wife in Takoma Park, Maryland.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-statement-on-president-bidens-meeting-with-president-xi,Van Hollen Statement on President Biden’s Meeting with President Xi,2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, & International Cybersecurity Policy, released the following statement in advance of President Biden’s meeting with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China (PRC): “The rise of a more assertive and aggressive PRC presents strategic challenges that the United States must address. President Biden has taken the right approach on these issues – including advancing U.S. national security interests while pursuing opportunities for diplomacy with China, as exemplified by today. This meeting comes at an important moment in our relationship with China as we seek to reduce the risk of miscalculations by resuming military-to-military communications and making incremental progress on other fronts. I am confident President Biden will press President Xi to reduce the flow of precursor fentanyl chemicals into Mexico, and I urge President Biden to call for the release of wrongfully detained Americans in China. Lastly, as we continue to seek out areas of cooperation like combatting climate change, we must keep working to hold China accountable for its human rights abuses and imprisonment of activists and journalists, preserve the status quo on Taiwan, and urge the PRC to act as a responsible actor on the world stage.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-statement-on-vote-to-avert-shutdown,Van Hollen Statement on Vote to Avert Shutdown,2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) released the following statement on his vote to pass a continuing resolution to keep the government running through early 2024. “Keeping our government open and pursuing national objectives is one of our most basic responsibilities as lawmakers. And while I’m disappointed with yet another short-term continuing resolution, I’m glad to see House Republicans take a step back from the brink in holding our government hostage. This legislation will prevent, at least for now, economic uncertainty and disruptions to vital services that Americans count on while ensuring our federal workers and servicemembers are paid. Just as the passage of this measure was bipartisan, our work to pass funding legislation for the rest of fiscal year 2024 and address our urgent national security obligations must also be bipartisan. Over the next several weeks, we must work together to responsibly fund our FY24 domestic priorities, provide critical military assistance to the people of Ukraine, support Israel’s defense needs, and extend desperately needed humanitarian aid to areas in critical need – including to civilians in Gaza. The American people and our allies around the world are watching – and counting on us to get this done.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mfume-statement-on-vote-to-avoid-federal-government-shutdown,Congressman Mfume Statement on Vote to Avoid Federal Government Shutdown,2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Kweisi Mfume,M000687,mfume.house.gov,mfume,https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07) issued the following statement regarding his vote to avoid a government shutdown, temporarily funding the federal government until early 2024. This legislation will now be taken up by the United States Senate for consideration and if passed, sent to President Joe Biden for his signature. “I voted again, along with 208 other Democrats in the U.S. House, to avoid a government shutdown today. The continuing resolution that provides for government funding is far from ideal but it fully funds the government until early next year. I urge my Republican colleagues to spend more time governing and less time posturing so that we can all responsibly go about conducting the People’s business,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-announces-senate-passage-of-appropriations-package-with-over-40-million-for-maryland-infrastructure-rural-development-military-construction-projects,"Van Hollen Announces Senate Passage of Appropriations Package with Over $40 Million for Maryland Infrastructure, Rural Development, Military Construction Projects",2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced the Senate’s passage of $41,921,000 in direct federal investments for community-led projects throughout Maryland as part of a package of three fiscal year 2024 government funding bills. These funds, included at the Senator’s request, support a wide array of projects to improve public transit, trail networks, roads, affordable housing, and more; boost development in rural communities; and invest in Maryland military installations and veterans, among other critical priorities for the state. The package, which the Senator voted to pass earlier this month, is comprised of the FY24 funding bills for Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD); Agriculture, Rural Development, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA); and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs. While passing the Senate is an important step forward, these funds are not finalized until the appropriations bills are reconciled with the House of Representatives and signed by the President. “Targeted federal investments in key community initiatives go a long way toward expanding opportunity and improving crucial services in our state. With these funds, we can help modernize local infrastructure, spur economic growth, strengthen our military facilities and veterans’ services, and more. I’ll keep working to get these federal investments across the finish line and deliver them to our partners across Maryland,” said Senator Van Hollen, a member of the Appropriations Committee. Projects funded through the THUD funding legislation: Project Name: Baltimore Franklin-Mulberry Corridor - Reconnecting Communities Applicant: Baltimore City Project Location: Baltimore City Amount Included: $500,000 Description: Funds will be used to support public engagement and outreach to develop community-led plans to enhance transportation connectivity and access for the neighborhoods in West Baltimore impacted by the Highway to Nowhere. Project Name: Benedictine Residential Facility Applicant: Benedictine School for Exceptional Children Project Location: Caroline County Amount Included: $1,800,000 Description: The Benedictine School is a multi-functional, year-round education and residential center serving more than 150 children and adults with severe intellectual disabilities. Funds will renovate the outdated living areas and health facilities to better suit the needs of students and their families. Project Name: BRIDGES Community Family Life Center and Food Pantry Applicant: BRIDGES Community Development Corporation Project Location: Baltimore City Amount Included: $990,000 Description: Funds will support construction of a facility in the Pimlico/Arlington/Hilltop neighborhood with a commercial kitchen and food pantry, afterschool tutoring, and job training to serve local families. Project Name: Cambridge Neighborhood - Camper Street Applicant: Habitat for Humanity Choptank Project Location: Dorchester County Amount Included: $450,000 Description: Funds will be used to prepare sites in Ward 3 of Cambridge for the construction of safe, affordable, and energy efficient homes to help low-income families achieve sustainable homeownership. Project Name: Greater Baltimore Urban League / Orchard Street Church Applicant: Greater Baltimore Urban League, Inc. Amount Included: $3,500,000 Description: Funds will be used to restore the Historic Orchard Street Church, the city's oldest standing structure, as a headquarters and outreach center for the Greater Baltimore Urban League. It will also house a new community clinic in collaboration with Morgan State University's new medical school. Project Name: Harmer's Town Art Center Applicant: Harmer's Town Art Center, Inc. Project Location: Harford County Amount Included: $3,351,000 Description: Funds will support the rehabilitation of a vacant commercial building to serve as a regional art facility, creativity incubator, and economic driver in Havre de Grace. The building will include low-cost artist studio space and makerspaces and will draw visitors with galleries, classes, and shops. Project Name: Historic Druid Hill Y Family Center Renovation Applicant: YMCA of Central Maryland, Inc. Project Location: Baltimore City Amount Included: $1,238,000 Description: The Y in Druid Hill, built in 1916, provides critical services to the community. Funds will be used to replace the roof, renovate transitional housing and locker rooms, and upgrade the pool area, while protecting the historic structure and ensuring the sustainability of a key community resource. Project Name: Last Mile Park Applicant: American Communities Trust, Inc. Project Location: Baltimore City Amount Included: $904,000 (will support one underpass) Description: Funds will support the development of a park looping around a series of Amtrak overpasses that will provide a safe and inviting connection between the new Eager Park development near Johns Hopkins and the underserved community north of the tracks, bringing economic benefit to both communities. Project Name: Mace's Lane Community Center, Inc. Project Name: Mace's Lane Community Center Project Location: Dorchester County Amount Included: $1,000,000 Description: Funds will be used for the final phase of the renovation of the historic Mace's Lane School into a museum and community center that will house a Boys & Girls Club, youth sports, education and cultural programs, community meeting space, and senior services. Project Name: NAACP Baltimore Headquarters Proposal Applicant: Baltimore NAACP Project Location: Baltimore City Amount Included: $500,000 Description: Funds will be used to upgrade and expand the Baltimore NAACP headquarters so it can increase its services, including fresh produce distribution, free and reduced-cost office space for small women- and minority-owned businesses, and youth programs. Project Name: North Bethesda Metro Station Northern Entrance Applicant: Montgomery County Project Location: Montgomery County Amount Included: $5,000,000 Description: Funds will support planning and preliminary engineering for a new north entrance to the North Bethesda Metro Station. The new entrance will serve existing and planned transit-oriented development in the Pike District and improve access for residents and commuters. Project Name: Open Works Baltimore – West Side Expansion Applicant: Open Works, Inc. Project Location: Baltimore City Amount Included: $2,000,000 Description: Funds will be used to open an Open Works makerspace in West Baltimore that will provide high-tech tools, industrial co-working space, technical education programs for all ages, workforce development training, entrepreneurship support, and contract manufacturing for startups and community projects. Project Name: Patapsco Pedestrian/Bicycle Bridge - Phase 1 Applicant: State of Maryland Project Location: Baltimore City and Baltimore County Amount Included: $5,000,000 Description: Funds will be used to construct a bicycle and pedestrian bridge connecting the Patapsco Avenue Light Rail Station and Bus Hub with the north side of Patapsco Avenue, improving connectivity to the Cherry Hill neighborhood for residents and commuters. Project Name: Phase 2 Bunkhouse Renovation Applicant: The Pearlstone Center Project Location: Baltimore County Amount Included: $1,558,000 Description: The Pearlstone Center is an outdoor education center that includes an organic farm and gardens and hosts students and workforce development training for green jobs. Fund will renovate bunkhouses and build a new bathhouse to support an overnight summer camp for low-income children. Project Name: Popes Creek Waterfront Phase II Applicant: Charles County Government Project Location: Charles County Amount Included: $200,000 Description: Funds will support the Popes Creek Waterfront and Rail Trail, an accessible water access point with a boardwalk and pier that connects to a trail through an abandoned rail corridor. This will be the county's first project to provide direct water access for recreation and fishing to all residents. Project Name: Reconnecting West Frederick Planning Project Applicant: City of Frederick Project Location: Frederick County Amount Included: $380,000 Description: Funds will be used to create preliminary plans for the reconfiguration of the West Patrick Street/US 15 Interchange, in order to improve equitable access to downtown for disadvantaged communities. The city aims to connect these communities so residents can safely access amenities and services. Project Name: Road to Freedom Trail Applicant: Northeast Towson Improvement Association, Inc. Project Location: Baltimore County Amount Included: $500,000 Description: Funds will be used for planning, design, and engineering for the Road to Freedom Trail, a cycling and pedestrian trail connecting 13 sites of historical significance from the Hampton National Historic Site to the Carver Community Center, increasing access for residents and visitors. Project Name: Rural Community Revitalization through Affordable Housing Applicant: Kent Attainable Housing, Inc. Project Location: Kent County Amount Included: $810,000 Description: Funds will support the construction of affordable homes for families in Chestertown and Butlertown. In addition to constructing housing units for first-time homebuyers, the program provides financial literacy and support services to help residents budget and establish good credit. Project Name: Southern Maryland Rapid Transit (SMRT) Applicant: Charles County Government Project Location: Charles County Amount Included: $5,000,000 Description: Funds will support a high-capacity transit service to alleviate one of the most congested commutes in the country, ignite job growth in target development areas in Southern Maryland, and reduce emissions. Additional priorities secured by the Senators in the FY24 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies funding bill include: Department of Transportation: The bill provides $28.433 billion in funding for the Department of Transportation—which includes significant new resources to ensure the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is able to maintain the safest, most efficient, and most complex air traffic control system in the world, the safety of our rail network, and capital investments to improve the state of good repair for our transit systems. RAISE Grants: The bill maintains critical funding for the RAISE Grant program to continue investing in transportation infrastructure projects that have a significant local or regional impact. FAA Staffing and Modernization: The bill provides $20.279 billion for the FAA, an increase of $1.255 billion over fiscal year 2023. This includes: $12.741 billion for FAA operations, which will allow the FAA to continue its air traffic controller hiring surge by adding 1,800 new controllers, improve the condition and reliability of critical IT and telecommunications legacy systems, such as the NOTAM system, continue to improve aircraft certification as required by the Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act, and accelerate the deployment of new entrants into the national airspace. A historic $3.429 billion for FAA facilities and equipment which will accelerate NextGen modernization. This includes $65.2 million for the critical Terminal Flight Data Manager and $69.95 million for DataComm programs, which will improve the efficiency of air traffic control and lead to fewer flight delays. The bill also includes $33.2 million for airport ground surveillance, $340.8 million for telecommunications infrastructure, and $29.35 million for long-term improvements to the critical NOTAM system. $3.851 billion for Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants, including $501 million for supplemental AIP grants that can help reduce emissions at airports, build airport infrastructure necessary to support unleaded fuels and sustainable aviation fuels, build resiliency at airports confronting climate change and worsening natural disasters, and support aircraft noise compatibility planning and programs. Highways and Bridges: The bill provides $60.096 billion for Federal-aid Highways, consistent with the IIJA-authorized level of spending from the Highway Trust Fund, with an additional $2.047 billion for Highway Infrastructure Programs. This includes $45 million for the Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program, $150 million for PROTECT Grants, $1.145 billion for bridges, $100 million for the Appalachian Development Highway System, $20 million for Scenic Byways, and other critical programs. Rail Safety: A total of $3.4 billion is provided for the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). This includes $2.45 billion for Amtrak to sustain operations, maintain a state of good repair, and safely get passengers to their destinations. To address the rail safety deficiencies identified in the East Palestine, Ohio train derailment, the bill provides a $32 million increase for FRA’s safety and operations budget—meeting the budget request level for rail safety inspectors and research. The bill also directs specific research requirements for: (1) wayside detection technology, operational alert thresholds, and rail carrier response protocols to inform and verify the technologies capabilities and establish industry-wide standards; and (2) long-train operational safety to evaluate equipment safety standards for brake systems and wheel performance to inform the development of continuous component monitoring. The bill also increases funding for the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s (PHMSA) emergency preparedness grants to $46.825 million and requires the agency to conduct research to improve the survivability of placards identifying hazardous materials on trains. WMATA Safety: The bill provides $150 million in capital and safety improvement funding for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), which manages the DMV-area Metro and bus system. It directs WMATA to establish and build a culture of safety throughout the organization, including a culture that fosters rigorous adherence to safety rules and procedures as a matter of routine. Transit Infrastructure: The bill provides $16.865 billion for the Federal Transit Administration—including $2.45 billion for Capital Investment Grants, a $240 million increase over fiscal year 2023, to continue investing in America’s transit infrastructure. It also includes $365.8 in budget authority—$184 million above fiscal year 2023—for Transit Investment Grants. This includes $161.8 million for Buses and Bus Facilities, $50 million for the Low- and No-emissions program; $45 million for areas of persistent poverty; and $43 million for urban and rural ferry programs. Maritime Administration: The bill provides $1.2 billion for the Maritime Administration, $308 million above fiscal year 2023. This includes: $195.5 million for the United States Merchant Marine Academy, of which $70 million is for capital improvement projects, fully meeting the President’s budget request to train the next generation of mariners; $131 million for State Maritime Academies, of which $91.8 million is for the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel program; $103 million for the Title XI program to fund new loan guarantee applications in the pipeline; $213 million for the Port Infrastructure Development Program; and $448 million to fund the Defense vessel programs at their authorized levels, including: $318 million for the Maritime Security Program; $10 million for the Cable Security Fleet program; and $120 million for the Tanker Security Fleet program. Expands Access to Transportation Infrastructure for Rural Communities and Tribes: The bill includes flexibilities in the federal share for certain transit projects and provides $25 million to supplement the Rural and Tribal Infrastructure Advancement Pilot Program to deliver financial, legal, technical, and project development assistance in an effort to improve Tribal access to transportation infrastructure programs at the Department of Transportation. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): The bill provides $70.06 billion in funding for the Department of Housing and Urban Development–to maintain all existing rental assistance while increasing efforts to reduce homelessness, connect people to both housing and health care, and remove barriers to housing opportunities and development, including unnecessary administrative burdens. Reduces Homelessness and Improves Connections to Health Care: The bill provides $3.9 billion for Homeless Assistance Grants, a $275 million increase above the fiscal year 2023 enacted level. In addition to sustaining investments for existing projects, homeless youth, and survivors of domestic violence, the bill provides: $100 million for permanent supportive housing, a $25 million increase over fiscal year 2023; $31 million for capacity-building grants and direct technical assistance to communities that are leveraging other funds, like Medicaid, to connect individuals experiencing homelessness to housing-related services and behavioral healthcare; and $25 million for an inflationary adjustment for supportive service projects so that providers can hire and retain qualified personnel. Lastly, the bill allows HUD to complete funds on a biennial basis, which will free up valuable staff time and resources to focus on service delivery rather than paperwork. Increases the Supply of Affordable Housing: As communities across the nation continue to face a shortage of affordable homes, the bill makes critical investments to increase the supply of housing so that Americans can keep a roof over their head. The bill includes: $1.5 billion to sustain robust funding for the HOME Investment Partnership Program, the primary federal tool of state and local governments that produces affordable rental and owner-occupied housing. This level will lead to the construction of nearly 10,000 new rental and homebuyer units. The House bill slashes funding for this program down to $500 million, the lowest funding level since the program’s inception three decades ago. $100 million for the second year of the “Yes In My Back Yard” grant program—a $15 million increase over fiscal year 2023. A significant contributor to the lack of housing supply and production is state and local zoning and land use laws and regulations that limit the number of units that can be built. These restrictions on development are driving up housing costs. While some communities have made progress in removing barriers to affordable housing production to keep up with market demand, the federal government should play a supporting role to strengthen these efforts and help jurisdictions increase their housing stock and lower housing costs. $4.3 billion for the Community Development Block Grant formula program and Economic Development Initiatives that address a variety of local community development and affordable housing needs. Preserves and Strengthens Investments in Rental Assistance Programs: The bill maintains critical support for HUD rental assistance programs, which assist nearly 5 million vulnerable households—more than half of whom are elderly or people with disabilities. This includes: $31.7 billion for tenant-based Section 8 vouchers, a $1.5 billion increase above fiscal year 2023, which includes funding to make 4,000 new incremental vouchers available to youth aging out of foster care and veterans at risk of or experiencing homelessness. $15.79 billion for the project-based rental assistance program to renew housing contracts, of which $32.9 million is for rent adjustments to certain properties with health, safety, or operational deficiencies to improve property conditions for tenants. $8.9 billion to operate and address the capital needs of public housing, a $361 million increase above fiscal year 2023. Increases Alignment and Flexibilities for Affordable Housing Programs: The thicket of statutory, regulatory, and procedural requirements for federal housing programs can undermine program results, lead to wasteful duplication, and require excessive time and resources from grantees. To reduce the number of duplicative property inspections that occur when a project is funded by multiple federal housing programs, the bill supports efforts to improve inspection standards while also ensuring coordination across federal housing programs. To more effectively use available housing choice vouchers in difficult rental markets, the bill authorizes a new pilot to allow up to 8 public housing authorities to use housing assistance payments for leasing-related expenses, like security and utility deposits. To improve the speed and effectiveness of vouchers serving youth aging out of foster care, the bill streamlines the award process and authorizes the Secretary to waive certain requirements that are consistent obstacles to successful leasing. Projects funded through the Agriculture, Rural Development, and FDA funding legislation: Project Name: Adkins Arboretum Site Improvements Applicant: Adkins Arboretum Project Location: Caroline County Amount Included: $260,000 Description: The Adkins Arboretum's collection of 400 acres of native plants from the Mid-Atlantic Coastal region serves as a model of conservation and a place for visitors, including school groups, to enjoy trails and the outdoors. Funding will update amenities to better serve visitors. Project Name: BAAM Academic Center Applicant: Building African American Minds, Inc. Project Location: Talbot County Amount Included: $525,000 Description: Building African American Minds provides youth mentoring and services to Black students in Talbot County. Funds will be used to complete an academic center that will house staff offices and programs, including student afterschool and summer programs and career/workforce development. Project Name: Bloomington Fire Company Building Expansion Applicant: Bloomington Fire Company Project Location: Garrett County Amount Included: $150,000 Description: Funds will expand the fire station with extra space to store trucks and service equipment and expand and move lockers in order to serve the Bloomington community and surrounding areas more efficiently. The new structure will also offer a shelter for the community in the event of natural disaster. Project Name: Garrett County Utilities Infrastructure Equipment Applicant: Garrett County Board of Commissioners Project Location: Garrett County Amount Included: $525,000 Description: Funds will be used to purchase a hydro-excavator and associated equipment to allow Garrett County to perform public utility maintenance and repairs, install rural broadband, and respond to emergency situations more efficiently. Project Name: Hampstead Fire Station and Emergency Shelter Applicant: Hampstead Volunteer Fire Engine & Hose Company #1 Project Location: Carroll County Amount Included: $2,000,000 Description: Funds will support the construction of a new fire station and event center to improve fire, rescue, and EMS services to Hampstead and surrounding communities in Carroll and Baltimore Counties. The event center will also serve as an emergency shelter with a backup generator. Project Name: HOPE Center Applicant: Foundation of HOPE, Inc. Project Location: Talbot County Amount Included: $630,000 Description: Foundation of HOPE works to mentor and empower middle school girls in Talbot County. Funds will be used to construct a new facility to house its offices and entrepreneurship and empowerment afterschool program, allowing it to serve 50% more students. Project Name: Tri-Towns Emergency Medical Services Building Restoration Applicant: Tri-Towns Emergency Medical Services Project Location: Allegany County Amount Included: $150,000 Description: Tri-Towns EMS serves over 100 square miles in Allegany and Garrett Counties in a building that is open to the public, including for walk-in care. Funds will upgrade the building to repair some damaged areas, operate more efficiently, and provide a safe space for walk-in patients. Additional priorities secured by the Senators in the FY24 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies funding bill include: Chesapeake Bay States Partnership Initiative (C-SPI) report language that recognizes the important role of voluntary conservation practices in restoring waterways especially when deployed at scale. The language supports USDA’s continuation of the C-SPI and encourages the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to target additional technical assistance to the most effective basin areas of the watershed to reduce agricultural runoff in the Chesapeake Bay. $800.89 million for Conservation Technical Assistance, in which Natural Resources Conservation Service staff work one-on-one with farmers to conserve resources and prevent run-off. The bill also includes language expressing the Committee’s view that additional technical assistance should be provided to Critical Conservation Areas like the Chesapeake Bay Watershed because a lack of planning capacity can slow down projects in our region. $56.411 million for the continued consolidation of the FDA campus in White Oak, Maryland to increase FDA’s efficiency and productivity. Supporting FDA/Health and Human Services (HHS) coordination on medical supply chains to prevent shortages of crucial drugs – the bill includes language directing the FDA to coordinate with HHS and report on current domestic manufacturing of drugs on HHS’s Critical Drug List and dependence on international supply chains. The review may account for non-viability of certain components domestically. $20 million for the Farmers Market Nutrition Program, which helps low-income mothers and children purchase fruits and vegetables from local farmers. Funding for programs at historically Black 1890 Land-Grant institutions like the University of Maryland Eastern Shore: Research: $89 million Extension Services: $72 million Education Grants: 30 million Facility Improvements: $21.5 million Scholarships: $10 million Priorities funded through the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs funding legislation: Naval Support Activity Bethesda Fire House Applicant: Naval Support Activity Bethesda Project Location: Bethesda Amount Included: $3,000,000 Description: The current fire station is in severe disrepair and has been plagued by mold, leaks, structural problems, and other serious issues. It is also undersized and unable to accommodate a ladder truck. Funds will be used for planning and design of a new station that meets the needs of the base.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-merkley-huffman-barragan-mcclellan-colleagues-new-liquified-fossil-gas-licenses-not-in-the-publics-interest,"Van Hollen, Merkley, Huffman, Barragán, McClellan, Colleagues: New Liquified Fossil Gas Licenses Not in the Public’s Interest",2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), along with Representatives Jared Huffman (D-CA-02), Nanette Barragán (D-CA-44), and Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), in sending a bicameral letter alongside their colleagues to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) urging the agency to update how it determines if new licenses for liquified natural gas (LNG) exports to non-free, U.S. trade countries are in the public interest. The letter highlights concerns that DOE’s current approach to making these determinations does not fully or accurately consider how these exports impact the climate, environmental justice, or domestic energy prices. The lawmaker’s letter comes just as Data For Progress and Fossil Free Media released a new polling report finding voters are in strong support of limiting natural gas exports “by a 2-to-1 margin and want to see new export facilities paused until the proper reviews are completed.” The letter highlights that DOE has never rejected an LNG export application on the basis of negative impacts to the American people, and urges meaningful consideration of the costs to the climate and consumers when reviewing new export licenses. “U.S. LNG exports have doubled over the past four years, and projects currently under development are set to almost double exports again. DOE’s case-by-case approach to approvals ignores the aggregate impact that the explosive growth in U.S. LNG exports is having on climate, communities, and our economy,” the lawmakers write. The lawmakers’ letter comes as DOE is approving LNG exports—and, as the lawmakers note, “scientific reports, including a recent peer reviewed study from Brown University and RMI, have found that natural gas can be as bad for the climate as coal, when only small methane leaks are factored in.” The lawmakers strongly encourage DOE to develop an approach that is informed by the latest climate and economic analysis, and which is transparent and open for public comment. “By exacerbating climate change, LNG exports also pose a threat to environmental justice at home and abroad, because the impacts of climate change fall most heavily on low-income communities and communities of color,” wrote the lawmakers. “Finally, LNG exports drive up household energy burdens across the country, a key issue for all of our constituents. The EIA found that ‘higher LNG exports create a tighter domestic natural gas market … increasing domestic natural gas prices’ and this link was on clear display when an explosion at Freeport LNG sent domestic gas prices plummeting and its restart caused them to rise sharply again,” they continued. With the Department’s anticipated decision on the CP2 export application, a proposal to create one of the largest LNG terminals ever, the stakes could not be higher. “No public interest determination will be viewed as credible unless the perspectives of the public are heard, understood, and reflected in DOE’s decision on CP2 and across the board,” the letter concludes. In addition to Senator Van Hollen, the letter led by Senator Merkley is also cosigned by Senators Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii). In addition to Representatives Huffman, Barragán, and McClellan the letter is signed by Representatives Alma Adams (D-NC-12), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR-03), Julia Brownley (D-CA-26), Greg Casar (D-TX-35), Sean Casten (D-IL-06), Yvette Clarke (D-NY-09), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO-05), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13), Daniel Goldman (D-NY-10), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37), Ann Kuster (D-NH-02), Barbara Lee (D-CA-12), Mike Levin (D-CA-49), Seth Magaziner (D-RI-02), James McGovern (D-MA-02), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY-12), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY-14), Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), Katie Porter (D-CA-47), Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Janice Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Robert Scott (D-VA-03), Mark Takano (D-CA-39), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Paul Tonko (D-NY-20), Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15), Juan Vargas (D-CA-52), Nydia Velázquez (D-NY-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12), Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ-07), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-AT LARGE), Antonio Cardenas (D-CA-29), Ro Khanna (D-CA-17), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51), Dwight Evans (D-PA-03), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01), Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24), Kathy Castor (D-FL-14), Jesús Garcia (D-IL-04), Andrea Salinas (D-OR-06), Judy Chu (D-CA-28), Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), Ilhan Omar (D-MN-05), Summer Lee (D-PA-12), and Val Hoyle (D-OR-04). Full text of the letter can be found here and follows below: Dear Secretary Granholm: We write to urge the Department of Energy (DOE) to update how it determines whether new licenses for liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports are in the public interest. Under the Natural Gas Act, DOE is required to use determine whether it is in the public interest to export LNG to counties where the U.S. does not have an existing free trade agreement (FTA). We are concerned that DOE’s current approach does not fully or accurately consider how LNG exports negatively impact the climate, environmental justice communities, or increase domestic energy prices. US LNG exports have doubled over the past four years, and projects currently under development are set to almost double exports again. DOE’s case-by-case approach to approvals ignores the aggregate impact that the explosive growth in U.S. LNG exports is having on climate, communities, and our economy. We encourage DOE to develop a generally-applicable approach, informed by updated climate and economic analyses, for how it will consider the aforementioned factors in LNG export permit determinations. This approach should be laid out in a transparent manner in guidance or rulemaking, which DOE should open to the public for comment. DOE also must ensure going forward that it consistently applies this approach in its review of all LNG export applications. DOE has never rejected an LNG export application on the basis of adverse impacts to the American people, and we urge DOE to consider at what point additional export licenses are no longer consistent with the public interest. In particular, DOE continues to assess proposed LNG export projects using outdated and insufficient methods of measuring climate impacts. DOE’s assumption that all LNG exports yield net climate benefits is both outdated and inconsistent with the latest climate science, as is the assumption that project-specific emissions will be offset. Scientific reports, including a recent peer reviewed study from Brown University and RMI, have found that natural gas can be as bad for the climate as coal, when only small methane leaks are factored in. Analysis from the Sierra Club has found that lifecycle emissions of all existing and proposed LNG export terminals would be equivalent to 681 coal plants or 548 million gasoline-powered cars annually, putting domestic and global climate targets out of reach. The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) has also found that LNG exports are the driving force behind forecasted gas production growth. At a time when Americans across the country are experiencing ever-harsher climate impacts, it is imperative that DOE make decisions about additional LNG infrastructure in a way that fully takes into account the climate costs of these projects. Increased LNG exports also have important implications for environmental (in)justice, and DOE should ensure that its public interest determinations follow the letter and spirit of President Biden’s Executive Order on Revitalizing our Nation’s Commitment to Environmental Justice for All. LNG exports pollute communities along the whole value chain of LNG production, including those located near fracking wells and pipelines, in the areas where LNG is liquefied, and also in the communities overseas where it is imported and combusted. By exacerbating climate change, LNG exports also pose a threat to environmental justice at home and abroad, because the impacts of climate change fall most heavily on low-income communities and communities of color. Finally, LNG exports drive up household energy burdens across the country. The EIA found that “higher LNG exports create a tighter domestic natural gas market … increasing domestic natural gas prices” and this link was on clear display when an explosion at Freeport LNG sent domestic gas prices plummeting and its announced restart caused them to rise sharply again. DOE’s public interest determination for LNG exports should consider the effect that these additional exports will have on US consumers already suffering from inflation, particularly low-income households, whose energy burden is typically three times higher than non low-income households. It is critical that DOE assess the climate, environmental justice, and consumer impacts when determining whether exports are in the public interest, especially as the agency considers its current pipeline of 16 LNG export projects under review. With the agency’s pending decision on the Calcasieu Pass 2 (CP2) export application, in particular, the stakes could not be higher. Once the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issues a decision on the project, DOE will make its own determination regarding whether or not exports from CP2 exports to non-FTA countries are in the public interest. It is long past time for DOE to update and clarify how it determines whether LNG export projects are in the public interest, starting with the CP2 project. No public interest determination will be viewed as credible unless the perspectives of the public are heard, understood, and reflected in DOE’s decision on CP2 and across the board. We thank you for your consideration and look forward to DOE’s swift action to improve both the process and the criteria by which the agency determines whether LNG exports are in the public interest. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-kaine-connolly-colleagues-in-urging-protections-for-merit-based-federal-workforce-system,"Van Hollen Joins Kaine, Connolly, Colleagues in Urging Protections for Merit-Based Federal Workforce System",2023-11-13,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and U.S. Representative Gerry Connolly (D-VA-11) and their colleagues in sending a letter to Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Director Kiran Ahuja in support of a proposed rule that would protect the merit-based federal workforce system and safeguard federal employees from losing due process rights. OPM announced the proposed rule in September and is now accepting public comments on it. The public comment period closes on November 17, and then OPM will issue a final rule. “We fully support OPM’s proposed regulation as it would clarify and reinforce statutory protections for career civil servants and advance the importance of nonpartisan public service,” wrote the lawmakers. “These efforts to strengthen civil service protections underpin a well-functioning merit system, which is critical to preserving our democracy.” “Roughly 2.2 million federal employees work tirelessly to serve the American people. From protecting national security and administering Social Security and veterans benefits to researching terminal diseases and ensuring food and water safety, federal employees uphold essential programs and ensure the American public can access vital resources,” the lawmakers continued. “This proposed rulemaking is an important first step to protect civil servants from the threat of politically motivated removal and ensure the civil service continues to rely on merits and expertise to deliver for the American people.” “It is vital to the mission of every federal agency that the career employees who execute daily operations be impartial and objective in their work without fear of politically motivated retaliation,” the lawmakers concluded. “As Members of Congress, we understand the critical role of our civil servants and strongly support OPM’s efforts to uphold our country’s competitive civil service.” In addition to Senator Van Hollen, the letter led by Senator Kaine and Representative Connolly was also signed by U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner (D-Va.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), and U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA-8), Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-7), Jennifer Wexton (D-VA-10), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-At-Large), André Carson (D-IN-7), Jamie Raskin (D-MD-8), John Sarbanes (D-MD-3), Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-7), and David Trone (D-MD-6). Full text of the letter is available here and below. Dear Director Ahuja: We write to applaud the Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM)’s Proposed Rule - Upholding Civil Service Protections and Merit System Principles [OPM-2023-0013]. We fully support OPM’s proposed regulation as it would clarify and reinforce statutory protections for career civil servants and advance the importance of nonpartisan public service. These are critical regulatory updates that would continue the efforts of the Pendleton Act of 1883 and the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978. We also remain committed to codifying civil service protections into law with our legislation, the Saving the Civil Service Act. These efforts to strengthen civil service protections underpin a well-functioning merit system, which is critical to preserving our democracy. Roughly 2.2 million federal employees work tirelessly to serve the American people. From protecting national security and administering Social Security and veterans benefits to researching terminal diseases and ensuring food and water safety, federal employees uphold essential programs and ensure the American public can access vital resources. This proposed rulemaking is an important first step to protect civil servants from the threat of politically motivated removal and ensure the civil service continues to rely on merits and expertise to deliver for the American people. In October 2020, the Trump Administration issued Executive Order 13957 to establish a new employment category for federal employees in the excepted government service known as Schedule F. This plan allowed the former President to move as many as 50,000 career employees into a new “at-will” status of employment, stripping them of civil service protections and making it easier to hire and fire them based on political loyalty. While it is a relief that the Biden Administration swiftly revoked this proposal, we remain deeply concerned about former President Trump’s stated plan to reinstitute Schedule F if elected. Reinstating a Schedule F or similar policy will jeopardize the livelihoods of tens of thousands of hard-working, career civil servants nationwide and upend civil service precedent. Furthermore, the impacts of a Schedule F policy would not only harm federal employees but also countless communities, small businesses, and families across America. The federal government’s ability to provide quality public services depends on a dedicated federal workforce invested in the best outcomes for the American people – not personal political gain. As the proposed rule highlights, career civil servants possess valuable institutional experience, niche technical knowledge and subject matter expertise that political appointees often lack. It is vital to the mission of every federal agency that the career employees who execute daily operations be impartial and objective in their work without fear of politically motivated retaliation. As Members of Congress, we understand the critical role of our civil servants and strongly support OPM’s efforts to uphold our country’s competitive civil service. Thank you for the opportunity to offer comments on this proposed rulemaking, and we look forward to working with you and your agency to swiftly implement these important protections. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-usfws-and-nfwf-announce-74-million-in-new-grants-to-restore-and-protect-habitats-in-chesapeake-bay-watershed,"Van Hollen, USFWS, and NFWF announce $7.4 Million in New Grants to Restore and Protect Habitats in Chesapeake Bay Watershed",2023-11-13,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) was joined by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), and Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) to announce 25 grants totaling $7.4 million to support wildlife habitat, climate resilience, community conservation partnerships, and equitable access to nature in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. This includes $1,392,200 for nine projects in Maryland. These grants, provided through the Chesapeake Watershed Investments in Landscape Defense (Chesapeake WILD) Program, will help protect and preserve the Chesapeake Bay and leverage more than $12 million in grantee matching funds, for a total conservation impact of $19.4 million. The Chesapeake WILD program was established through legislation authored by Senators Van Hollen and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.), and enacted into law within the America’s Conservation Enhancement Act in 2020. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Congressman Sarbanes were among the cosponsors of the legislation. “The Chesapeake WILD program is a critical new tool for protecting?native?habitats, preserving wildlife, and boosting the health of our outdoor economy,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen. “Delivering these resources to our partners in Maryland – who are working on the front lines of this effort – is exactly what I had in mind when authoring this legislation. These federal dollars will help local stewards of the Chesapeake Bay improve its water quality, restore our wetlands, and protect wildlife that has been threatened by development and pollution.” “The goal of the Chesapeake WILD Act is to equip our on-the-ground partners with resources to improve the long-term health of the Bay watershed and its inhabitants,"" said Congressman John Sarbanes. ""That's why I am so proud to be at the National Aquarium today to announce the second round of Chesapeake WILD grant recipients. So far, these grants have aided our local, state, and regional partners' abilities to conserve land, increase resiliency, and restore critical habitat. I look forward to seeing how the 2023 recipients utilize this funding to promote a healthy Bay for future generations."" “The Chesapeake Bay watershed and its wildlife are at the heart of our region’s cultural identity and economy,” said Senator Cardin. “Federal investment is critical to its health and sustainability. With the support of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and through community stewardship, we can secure the Bay’s resiliency and vitality for generations to come.” “The Chesapeake WILD program adds critical new resources, agency support, and technical assistance investments for habitat restoration and protection, public access, and community engagement activities across the Chesapeake Bay watershed,” said Jeff Trandahl, executive director and chief executive officer of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. “We look forward to working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and our many partners in the Chesapeake Bay watershed to continue building on the Foundation’s long legacy of conservation and restoration efforts in the region.” The awards announced today will ultimately protect more than 4,700 acres of fish and wildlife habitat, including 2,000 acres of key wildlife corridors in anticipated high elevation migration paths, restore more than 32 miles of riparian forest habitat, reconnect nearly 120 miles for migratory fish species, and improve recreational access for more than 31 miles of river and trails. Many of these projects address conservation needs in vulnerable communities. A full list of 2023 Chesapeake WILD grant projects is available here. The WILD-funded projects in Maryland are as follows: Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay ($579,600) will restore degraded habitat for imperiled species and develop a natural resources master plan for Bowie State University-owned woodlands and wetlands and Maryland Park Service-owned natural resource management areas adjacent to the university’s main campus. The project will engage students through internships and entry level jobs, guided field experiences, and course integration. Baltimore Green Space ($75,000) will expand habitat for imperiled pollinators and gather data on bumble bees as an indicator species across 12 properties in Baltimore City. The project will engage underserved communities in this work by providing site leaders, community partners, and other stakeholders with education and technical assistance to support pollinator habitats. Ducks Unlimited ($125,000) will lead three wetland restoration projects totaling at least 20 acres in coordination with multiple landowners. The project will lay the foundation for a strong, targeted conservation initiative in a high priority area that is primed for protection and restoration. Earth Conservation Corps ($74,900) will restore 2,500 feet of an unnamed tributary, commonly known as Noonan’s Run, of the Little Patuxent River. This work will enhance habitat for several species of endangered birds, dragonflies, and freshwater mussels and support AmeriCorps members in providing underserved youth with hands-on experiences and pathways to pursue green careers. Harford County ($80,000) will help increase American Eel populations beyond the Eden Mill Dam in Deer Creek and serve as a hands-on community outreach tool to educate the public about the importance of fish passages. The County will design and install an eel ladder that will result in opening over 110 miles of American eel habitat. Maryland Department of Natural Resources ($75,000) to develop a technical design document that will highlight the infrastructure needed for researching risk-based conservation strategies. This work will produce a plan that will support the upstream passage of anadromous fish species and prevent the upstream spread of invasive fish species. National Aquarium ($232,700) will partner to implement a community engagement plan focused on habitat restoration, stewardship, community science and meaningful education programming, establish an 8,000-square-foot floating wetland habitat featuring a live oyster reef, and pilot a network for native seed collection in support of Maryland’s 5 million trees initiative. Nepali American Cultural Center of Baltimore ($75,000) will develop a comprehensive plan that will restore and enhance the Nepali American Cultural Center’s green infrastructure and resilience. They will create designs for stormwater management facilities, underground cisterns for rainwater harvesting, reforestation, meadows, a native tree nursery and removal of impervious surfaces. Susquehannock Wildlife Society ($75,000) will use radio telemetry monitoring surveys of current wood turtle populations to better understand their habitat use and range. The Society will host events to educate the public and develop a conservation management plan using the collected data to highlight important habitat features and how they may be improved. The Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the U.S. and home to thousands of species of plants and animals. Nearly one million waterfowl winter on and near the bay each year – approximately one-third of the Atlantic Coast’s migratory population. More than 18 million people live and work in the Chesapeake Bay region, many depending on industries tied to the health of the watershed, like outdoor recreation, farming, and fishing. It supports collaborative conservation in the watershed and provides grant funding for community driven projects that align with five interrelated focal areas for sustaining the health of the watershed and its inhabitants into the future: Conserving and restoring imperiled fish and wildlife habitats Enhancing climate resilience and readiness Building community partnerships and conservation capacity, including in vulnerable communities Increasing equitable public access for recreation and human connections with nature Improving water quality The Service partners with NFWF to deliver the Chesapeake WILD grant program as part of the Foundation’s broader Chesapeake Bay Stewardship Fund — a portfolio of competitive grant programs helping to restore and protect the Chesapeake Bay watershed.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-welch-colleagues-urge-usda-and-usaid-to-provide-food-aid-to-palestinians-in-gaza,"Van Hollen Joins Welch, Colleagues Urge USDA and USAID to Provide Food Aid to Palestinians in Gaza",2023-11-10,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Senators Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Thomas Vilsack and U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator (USAID) Samantha Power to request the immediate release of crucial food aid administered by the agencies, including from the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust, for Palestinian civilians in Gaza. Programs such as the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust were created to respond to food relief needs internationally in times of crisis. Over half of Gaza’s population was food-insecure before October 7. The conflict following Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel has displaced one and a half million Gazans and Israel’s limitation of aid trucks has put civilian Palestinians at risk of starvation. “Gaza is home to approximately two million Palestinian civilians, including more than one million children. Since Hamas’s brutal October 7th attacks on Israel, and the ensuing war in Gaza, more than one and a half million Gazans have been displaced. In addition, Israel’s near-total siege of Gaza and the ongoing bombing campaign has turned a humanitarian crisis into a full-blown catastrophe with acute shortages of water, food, medicine, and fuel,” wrote the Senators. “We need to facilitate and provide additional emergency assistance to Gaza to prevent a deepening of the humanitarian disaster and help save countless lives. “Though the United States has provided financial assistance for humanitarian relief in Gaza and the West Bank, additional aid is necessary to address the intensifying food emergency faced by Palestinians in Gaza. We should do all we can to alleviate that burden,” the Senators wrote. “We strongly urge you to utilize the [Bill Emerson Humanitarian] Trust and other available resources to save the lives of Palestinian citizens during this unprecedented time.” According to the United Nations’ World Food Programme (WFP), stocks of some essential food items in Gaza, including rice, vegetable oil, and pulses, are nearing depletion. Even prior to October 7th, 63% of Gazan residents were food insecure, and 80% of Gaza’s population relied on humanitarian assistance. The WFP, which is already facing funding shortages, recently warned that an additional $74 million is needed in the next three months to provide necessary food assistance for Gaza. The Secretary of Agriculture is authorized to release resources from the Trust, at the request of the USAID Administrator. Read the full text of the letter here and below: Dear Secretary Vilsack and Administrator Power, We are writing to request the immediate release of resources from the Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust, along with other resources available to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), to provide food aid to Palestinians in Gaza. We believe the current situation in Gaza necessitates the utilization of the Trust, which was established to provide emergency assistance for populations facing acute hunger needs, among other resources created to address acute hunger needs. Gaza is home to approximately two million Palestinian civilians, including more than one million children. Since Hamas’s brutal October 7th attacks on Israel, and the ensuing war in Gaza, more than one and a half million Gazans have been displaced. In addition, Israel’s near total siege of Gaza and the ongoing bombing campaign has turned a humanitarian crisis into a full-blown catastrophe with acute shortages of water, food, medicine, and fuel. According to the United Nations’ World Food Programme (WFP), stocks of some essential food items in Gaza, including rice, vegetable oil, and pulses, are nearing depletion. Even prior to October 7th, sixty-three percent of Gazan residents were food insecure, and eighty percent of Gaza’s population relied on humanitarian assistance. We need to facilitate and provide additional emergency assistance to Gaza to prevent a deepening of the humanitarian disaster and help save countless lives. The Bill Emerson Humanitarian Trust was created to respond to aberrant food security needs in times of unparalleled food crisis abroad. The WFP, which is already facing funding shortages, recently warned that an additional $74 million is needed in the next three months to provide necessary food assistance for Gaza. Though the United States has provided financial assistance for humanitarian relief in Gaza and the West Bank, additional aid is necessary to address the intensifying food emergency faced by Palestinians in Gaza. We should do all we can to alleviate that burden. The Secretary of Agriculture is authorized to release resources from the Trust, at the request of the USAID Administrator. We strongly urge you to utilize the Trust and other available resources to save the lives of Palestinian citizens during this unprecedented time. We also ask that your agencies provide a staff-level briefing by Wednesday, November 22nd to explain the steps you have taken, and plan to take, to provide food and other humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-merkley-colleagues-urge-inclusion-of-full-humanitarian-assistance-in-supplemental-funding-package,"Van Hollen, Merkley, Colleagues Urge Inclusion of Full Humanitarian Assistance in Supplemental Funding Package",2023-11-10,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) led 21 of their colleagues in sending a letter to Democratic and Republican Senate and Appropriations leadership urging the inclusion of the full $10 billion in humanitarian assistance requested by the President in the national security supplemental. “Beyond the moral significance of continuing our country’s tradition as the world’s leader in delivering life-saving humanitarian aid, this assistance promotes global stability and security by helping manage and provide for displaced populations, preventing recruitment to extremism, and mitigating economic pressure on partner governments,” wrote the Senators. The letter highlights the ongoing conflicts in Europe and the Middle East and the devastating impacts these global crises have on millions of innocent civilians caught in the middle. The Senators urge U.S. leadership in ensuring aid reaches sick, wounded, and displaced civilians. “Without these funds, global efforts led by the United States to address ongoing and expanded crises in Sudan, Nagorno-Karabakh, Burma, Syria, and other humanitarian responses will suffer reductions in support. This would directly threaten U.S. national security and the security of our partners,” the letter continues. Joining Senators Van Hollen, Merkley, Kaine, Welch, and Schatz, this letter is signed by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). Full text of the letter can be found here and follows below: Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Chair Murray, and Vice Chair Collins: We urge you to ensure that the final package for the national security supplemental includes the full $10 billion in humanitarian assistance requested by the President, including for refugee and emergency food aid. This funding would roughly match U.S. emergency spending on humanitarian assistance appropriated since the beginning of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and would come at a time when global needs are only rising. Beyond the moral significance of continuing our country’s tradition as the world’s leader in delivering life-saving humanitarian aid, this assistance promotes global stability and security by helping manage and provide for displaced populations, preventing recruitment to extremism, and mitigating economic pressure on partner governments. Without these funds, global efforts led by the United States to address ongoing and expanded crises in Sudan, Nagorno-Karabakh, Burma, Syria, and other humanitarian responses will suffer reductions in support. This would directly threaten U.S. national security and the security of our partners. If these funds are not included, U.S. assistance for displaced Ukrainians could be reduced by as much as 75 percent. As you know, Ukrainians have valiantly fought against Vladimir Putin’s unjust and unprovoked invasion of their country. To sustain their heroic struggle, Ukrainians not only need weapons and ammunition, but also basic humanitarian support for the families and communities they are fighting to defend. An estimated 16 million people in Ukraine and more than 6.3 million Ukrainian refugees in the region rely on humanitarian assistance. While other donors have provided the majority of total humanitarian and economic assistance that has been delivered to Ukraine (roughly double U.S. support), U.S. leadership has been critical in this effort. We must continue to lead the way in ensuring aid reaches sick, wounded, and displaced Ukrainians suffering as a result of Putin’s brutality. As supporters of a strong U.S.-Israel relationship, we believe Israel has the right and obligation to defend itself against Hamas – a terrorist organization whose horrific attacks on October 7 and long history of violence against Israelis and Palestinians make clear its total disregard for innocent human life. We also know from our country’s own experiences that protecting civilians and ensuring access to desperately needed food, water, medical care, and shelter for innocent civilians caught in the middle of conflict is critical for strategic success. Preventing Hamas from ever again threatening Israeli lives does not depend solely on Israel’s ability to degrade Hamas militarily. It also requires giving Palestinians hope for a better future, starting with making sure that humanitarian aid continuously reaches vulnerable civilians in Gaza. This is why the United States and our implementing partners, working closely with the Israeli government, undertake extensive oversight procedures so that U.S. assistance flows only to its intended recipients. The ongoing conflicts in Europe and the Middle East have impacts beyond their borders. The proliferation of global crises is putting pressure on millions of innocent civilians who are bearing the brunt of the fighting, and key U.S. partners, including in Europe and the Middle East, continue to grapple with how to manage the outbreak of violence in their regions. These realities underscore the importance of the United States maintaining its indispensable leadership role in support of assistance that effectively responds to dire humanitarian needs and prevents further instability. We thank you for your consideration of this important request. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-raskin-lead-resolution-recognizing-young-adults-who-have-chronic-health-conditions-highlighting-challenges-they-face,"Van Hollen, Raskin Lead Resolution Recognizing Young Adults Who Have Chronic Health Conditions, Highlighting Challenges They Face",2023-11-10,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen and Congressman Jamie Raskin (both D-Md.) are leading a resolution to raise awareness about the growing population of young adults in the United States who have chronic health conditions and the unique challenges they face. “While many understand that older Americans are susceptible to chronic conditions, it’s often overlooked that millions of young adults also struggle with these challenges – holding them back from reaching their full potential. This resolution is about bringing this invisible population into the light – recognizing the strength of the millions of young Americans fighting chronic health challenges and reaffirming our commitment to supporting comprehensive care as they transition to adulthood, funding additional research in this area, and improving health, education, and employment outcomes for these young adults with chronic conditions to ensure they can lead healthy and fulfilling lives,” said Senator Van Hollen. “Across America, young adults living with chronic health conditions demonstrate remarkable resilience and extraordinary tenacity,” said Rep. Raskin. “However, our health care system is often ill-equipped to serve this population, and the transition from pediatric care to adult care can be especially difficult and confusing. I’m grateful to the dedicated advocates and activists who’ve joined me in uplifting this resolution and raising public consciousness about the urgent need for us to better serve this vulnerable and growing population.” Due to extraordinary advancements in medicine, many young people who have serious conditions such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, cancer, cerebral palsy, diabetes or complex congenital heart disease are now living into adulthood. Unfortunately, many adult providers lack training in childhood-onset conditions, and many young adults who have chronic conditions do not receive coordinated and timely care. Notably, the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine has found that young adults with chronic conditions who belong to marginalized groups are less likely to experience a successful transition to the adult health care system, including youth emerging from the foster care system or the juvenile justice system, youth of color and youth from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds. The resolution is supported by Physician-Parent Caregivers, the Adult Congenital Heart Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD), the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Invisible Wave, the Maryland Sickle Cell Disease Association, the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine, and Young Invincibles. “The 1 in 4 young adults who grew up with a chronic health condition are counting on us,” said Dr. Santi KM Bhagat, President and Founder of Physician-Parent Caregivers. “They must no longer remain an invisible population, but instead be included in all spheres of life, from healthcare, to education, to the workplace. With this resolution, Congressman Raskin and Senator Van Hollen are bringing desperately needed visibility and attention to the challenges they face.” “With aggressive, continuously improving disease management and recent advancements in treatment options, the average life expectancy for people with cystic fibrosis (CF) has risen steadily over the last few decades. However, people with CF continue to experience barriers within our health care system as well as where they live, learn, and work that affect their health outcomes. We commend Rep. Raskin, Senator Van Hollen, and Congress for their commitment to ensuring young adults with chronic conditions are able to live long, fulfilling lives,” said Mary Dwight, Chief Policy & Advocacy Officer at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. “This resolution is a great step forward in affirming the importance of elevating young voices on the unique needs we often have in managing our health. Fifty percent of young adults live with at least one chronic condition, whether that is heart disease, diabetes, or a mental health issue such as depression. Yet, our research priorities and government policies often fail to center our experiences as young adults, college students, and young workers. Young people deserve access to affordable health care to better manage our chronic conditions, before they become even more severe and costly to our financial and overall well-being,” said Martha Sanchez, Director of Health Policy and Advocacy at Young Invincibles. “I am thrilled to see this Resolution make it to Congress. I am thrilled to see our champions Dr. Bhagat, Congressman Raskin, and Senator Van Hollen make a public stand to say that they see us, they hear us, and they support us. That they are willing to publicly ask their colleagues and constituents to do the same. Well, I hoped, but never thought I’d see a grand coordinated effort like this, for us, in my lifetime,” said Jo Palmer, Chief Invisible Officer at Invisible Wave. “Ensuring continued, adequate cardiac care during the transition into young adulthood is incredibly important to the long-term health of patients with congenital heart disease (CHD),” said Mark Roeder, President and CEO of the Adult Congenital Heart Association. “Thankfully, due to recent advances in care, there are now more adults living with CHDs than pediatric patients. We’re grateful to Congressman Raskin, Senator Van Hollen, and other congressional leaders this November for highlighting the unique challenges that young people with CHDs and other chronic health conditions face.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases/team-maryland-joint-statement-selection-greenbelt-fbis-new-headquarters,Team Maryland Joint Statement on the Selection of Greenbelt for the FBI's New Headquarters,2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Glenn Ivey,I000058,ivey.house.gov,ivey,https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Today, members of Maryland’s federal, state, and local governments including Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Governor Wes Moore, Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Congressmen Dutch Ruppersberger (MD-02), John Sarbanes (MD-03), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), David Trone (MD-06), and Glenn Ivey (MD-04), and Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks released the following statement regarding the General Services Administration’s decision to select Prince George’s County as the home for the new, consolidated FBI headquarters: “This is a historic moment for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and our nation. For decades, the dilapidated J. Edgar Hoover Building has failed to meet the FBI’s operational needs, which has undermined our national security. The once fabled building has crumbled before our eyes, with nets surrounding the facility for years to protect pedestrians from falling debris. Today’s decision by the General Services Administration (GSA) will ensure we fulfill the FBI’s dire, longstanding need for a new consolidated headquarters that meets the modern-day demands on the Bureau’s work to protect Americans and our nation. “After a thorough deliberation process and consideration of stakeholder input, the GSA selected the Greenbelt site as the location for the new FBI headquarters. The GSA’s analysis of the facts and its consultations revealed that the Greenbelt site is the most fitting site of the three final candidates when all factors were considered together. “We agree with the GSA’s determination that based on merit the Greenbelt site is best suited to serve the present and future FBI and the dedicated public servants who work tirelessly to protect America and uphold the law. Considering cost to the taxpayer, equity, construction timeline, transportation access, and the FBI’s mission requirements, we have long believed that Greenbelt is the best site for this crucial facility. We are pleased that the GSA arrived at the same conclusion. Our decades-long, bipartisan effort to bring the Maryland sites’ many merits to the GSA’s attention was never about politics. It was always about making the case for what is best for the FBI, our region, and the country. ""Team Maryland has worked tirelessly to deliver this result together. Our close cooperation will continue as we break ground on this new headquarters and tackle other pressing issues facing Marylanders. We are committed to doing everything we can to ensure the FBI has the best possible headquarters in the quickest timeframe so that we can facilitate a smooth transition to Prince George’s County. We look forward to building a strong, productive partnership with the Bureau and its staff.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/11/rep-raskin-leads-resolution-recognizing-young-adults-who-have-chronic-health-conditions-highlighting-challenges-they-face,"Rep. Raskin Leads Resolution Recognizing Young Adults Who Have Chronic Health Conditions, Highlighting Challenges They Face",2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC–Today, Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) and Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) introduced a resolution to raise awareness about the growing population of young adults in the United States who have chronic health conditions and the unique challenges they face. “Across America, young adults living with chronic health conditions demonstrate remarkable resilience and extraordinary tenacity,” said Rep. Raskin. “However, our health care system is often ill-equipped to serve this population, and the transition from pediatric care to adult care can be especially difficult and confusing. I’m grateful to the dedicated advocates and activists who’ve joined me in uplifting this resolution and raising public consciousness about the urgent need for us to better serve this vulnerable and growing population.” “While many understand that older Americans are susceptible to chronic conditions, it’s often overlooked that millions of young adults also struggle with these challenges – holding them back from reaching their full potential. This resolution is about bringing this invisible population into the light – recognizing the strength of the millions of young Americans fighting chronic health challenges and reaffirming our commitment to supporting comprehensive care as they transition to adulthood, funding additional research in this area, and improving health, education, and employment outcomes for these young adults with chronic conditions to ensure they can lead healthy and fulfilling lives,” said Senator Van Hollen. Due to extraordinary advancements in medicine, many young people who have serious conditions such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, cancer, cerebral palsy, diabetes or complex congenital heart disease are now living into adulthood. Unfortunately, many adult providers lack training in childhood-onset conditions, and many young adults who have chronic conditions do not receive coordinated and timely care. Notably, the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine has found that young adults with chronic conditions who belong to marginalized groups are less likely to experience a successful transition to the adult health care system, including youth emerging from the foster care system or the juvenile justice system, youth of color and youth from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds. “The 1 in 4 young adults who grew up with a chronic health condition are counting on us,” said Dr. Santi KM Bhagat, President and Founder of Physician-Parent Caregivers. “They must no longer remain an invisible population, but instead be included in all spheres of life, from healthcare, to education, to the workplace. With this resolution, Congressman Raskin and Senator Van Hollen are bringing desperately needed visibility and attention to the challenges they face.” “With aggressive, continuously improving disease management and recent advancements in treatment options, the average life expectancy for people with cystic fibrosis (CF) has risen steadily over the last few decades. However, people with CF continue to experience barriers within our health care system as well as where they live, learn, and work that affect their health outcomes. We commend Rep. Raskin, Senator Van Hollen, and Congress for their commitment to ensuring young adults with chronic conditions are able to live long, fulfilling lives,” said Mary Dwight, Chief Policy & Advocacy Officer at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. “This resolution is a great step forward in affirming the importance of elevating young voices on the unique needs we often have in managing our health. Fifty percent of young adults live with at least one chronic condition, whether that is heart disease, diabetes, or a mental health issue such as depression. Yet, our research priorities and government policies often fail to center our experiences as young adults, college students, and young workers. Young people deserve access to affordable health care to better manage our chronic conditions, before they become even more severe and costly to our financial and overall well-being,” said Martha Sanchez, Director of Health Policy and Advocacy at Young Invincibles. “I am thrilled to see this Resolution make it to Congress. I am thrilled to see our champions Dr. Bhagat, Congressman Raskin, and Senator Van Hollen make a public stand to say that they see us, they hear us, and they support us. That they are willing to publicly ask their colleagues and constituents to do the same. Well, I hoped, but never thought I’d see a grand coordinated effort like this, for us, in my lifetime,” said Jo Palmer, Chief Invisible Officer at Invisible Wave. “Ensuring continued, adequate cardiac care during the transition into young adulthood is incredibly important to the long-term health of patients with congenital heart disease (CHD),” said Mark Roeder, President and CEO of the Adult Congenital Heart Association. “Thankfully, due to recent advances in care, there are now more adults living with CHDs than pediatric patients. We’re grateful to Congressman Raskin, Senator Van Hollen, and other congressional leaders this November for highlighting the unique challenges that young people with CHDs and other chronic health conditions face.” The resolution is supported by Physician-Parent Caregivers, the Adult Congenital Heart Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD), the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Invisible Wave, the Maryland Sickle Cell Disease Association, the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine, and Young Invincibles. The full resolution is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mfume-team-maryland-joint-statement-on-the-selection-of-greenbelt-for-the-fbi-s-new-headquarters,"Congressman Mfume, Team Maryland Joint Statement on the Selection of Greenbelt for the FBI's New Headquarters",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Kweisi Mfume,M000687,mfume.house.gov,mfume,https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, members of Maryland’s federal, state, and local governments including Congressmen Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Governor Wes Moore, Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Congressmen Dutch Ruppersberger (MD-02), John Sarbanes (MD-03), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), David Trone (MD-06), and Glenn Ivey (MD-04), and Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks released the following statement regarding the General Services Administration’s decision to select Prince George’s County as the home for the new, consolidated FBI headquarters: “This is a historic moment for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and our nation. For decades, the dilapidated J. Edgar Hoover Building has failed to meet the FBI’s operational needs, which has undermined our national security. The once fabled building has crumbled before our eyes, with nets surrounding the facility for years to protect pedestrians from falling debris. Today’s decision by the General Services Administration (GSA) will ensure we fulfill the FBI’s dire, longstanding need for a new consolidated headquarters that meets the modern-day demands on the Bureau’s work to protect Americans and our nation. “After a thorough deliberation process and consideration of stakeholder input, the GSA selected the Greenbelt site as the location for the new FBI headquarters. The GSA’s analysis of the facts and its consultations revealed that the Greenbelt site is the most fitting site of the three final candidates when all factors were considered together. “We agree with the GSA’s determination that based on merit the Greenbelt site is best suited to serve the present and future FBI and the dedicated public servants who work tirelessly to protect America and uphold the law. Considering cost to the taxpayer, equity, construction timeline, transportation access, and the FBI’s mission requirements, we have long believed that Greenbelt is the best site for this crucial facility. We are pleased that the GSA arrived at the same conclusion. Our decades-long, bipartisan effort to bring the Maryland sites’ many merits to the GSA’s attention was never about politics. It was always about making the case for what is best for the FBI, our region, and the country. “Team Maryland has worked tirelessly to deliver this result together. Our close cooperation will continue as we break ground on this new headquarters and tackle other pressing issues facing Marylanders. We are committed to doing everything we can to ensure the FBI has the best possible headquarters in the quickest timeframe so that we can facilitate a smooth transition to Prince George’s County. We look forward to building a strong, productive partnership with the Bureau and its staff.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/11/raskin-statement-on-president-biden-s-call-for-a-72-hour-pause-in-israel-hamas-war,Raskin Statement on President Biden’s Call for a 72-Hour Pause in Israel-Hamas War,2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) today released the following statement in support of President Biden’s call for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to a 72-hour pause in the Israel-Hamas War to accelerate the release of the 240 hostages held by Hamas and to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to innocent Gazan civilians. “I strongly endorse President Biden’s call for Prime Minister Netanyahu to agree to a 72-hour pause in fighting to allow for progress in releasing some of the hostages held by Hamas and to establish essential information about the identities and well-being of those persons being held captive. Hamas’s capture and kidnapping of more than 240 hostages—from a nine-month-old infant to pregnant women to people in their 80s, including Holocaust survivors—constitute a continuing crime against humanity and every day they are in captivity is a nightmare for them and their families and friends. Since October 7, I have met with families of the hostages and am moved by their tenacity in the face of overwhelming uncertainty. I join them in saying that the release of the hostages—who are innocent civilians and noncombatants—is an urgent imperative and must be a paramount policy priority for our nation and Israel. “Today’s revelation that a near-deal for release of up to 50 of the hostages collapsed when Israel launched its ground invasion shows the dangers of trying to free the hostages while military hostilities continue. A 72-hour pause will allow for concrete progress in bringing them home to their desperate families. “A 72-hour pause in hostilities will also provide an opportunity to break the dynamics of lethal violence affecting innocent civilians in Gaza and to accelerate and expand humanitarian assistance, including water, food, medicine and fuel, to this besieged population. “I thank the President for this significant humanitarian initiative and urge Prime Minister Netanyahu and the people of Israel to take this important step to save innocent lives.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ahead-of-veterans-day-van-hollen-joins-brown-colleagues-in-urging-credit-reporting-agencies-to-better-protect-servicemembers-credit-reports,"Ahead of Veterans Day, Van Hollen Joins Brown, Colleagues in Urging Credit Reporting Agencies to Better Protect Servicemembers’ Credit Reports",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) along with Senators Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and John Fetterman (D-Pa.) in sending letters urging TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax to ensure servicemembers receive free credit monitoring services, active-duty alerts, and free access to credit reports, to protect these crucial reports from financial scams, identity theft, and other errors. Credit reports have a substantial impact on many servicemembers’ work. Some servicemembers, and all officers, must pass a national security clearance check that includes a detailed review of their credit history. An error on a credit report may result in denial or loss of a security clearance, which could cost someone in the military their job. 80 percent of security clearance revocations are related to financial difficulties. Deployed servicemembers may be out of the country and not able to actively monitor their credit report. Servicemembers are also often targets of identity theft, because they must change addresses frequently. The law guarantees servicemembers protections like free credit monitoring services and the ability to place an active-duty alert on their credit reports. However, credit bureaus often fail to provide servicemembers with these protective services, and errors are common. According to the CFPB, credit reports are the most common issue servicemembers register complaints about with the agency. In 2022, servicemembers sent in nearly 36,000 complaints to the CFPB related to credit reports. “These protections allow servicemembers to perform their duties with peace of mind that their credit histories are being actively monitored for changes and threats. Reducing or alleviating these stressors for servicemembers and their families directly supports the operational readiness of our armed forces,” the senators said in the letter. A copy of the letter can be found HERE or below. Dear Mr. Cartwright: We are writing to express our concern that servicemembers are not receiving the consumer benefits they are entitled to from credit reporting agencies. We urge your company to proactively work to ensure servicemembers and their families have the rights that Congress intended them to have. Servicemembers protect the United States from threats across the globe. Our men and women in uniform, sacrifice so much for the service of us all, but sadly they are not receiving the protections they are required by law to receive. Specifically, credit reporting agencies must provide free credit monitoring services upon request to active-duty servicemembers. Credit monitors must notify servicemembers about any “material” additions or modifications to their credit files. They also must provide servicemembers with free access to credit reports. These protections allow servicemembers to perform their duties with peace of mind that their credit histories are being actively monitored for changes and threats. Reducing or alleviating these stressors for servicemembers and their families directly supports the operational readiness of our armed forces. Credit reports have a significant and direct impact on Americans’ financial decisions and the ability to build wealth. In the armed forces, some servicemembers and all officers must submit to and pass a national security clearance check that includes a detailed review of their credit history. This review determines, among other things, their ability to meet their financial obligations. Adverse information in a servicemember’s credit history could result in denial of a security clearance. Those servicemembers that secure national security clearances are also subject to continuous monitoring and evaluation to determine if they are failing to meet their financial obligations, in excessive debt, or have a high debt-to-income ratio. A servicemember’s security clearance may be revoked if any adverse events or items of concern are identified—80 percent of security clearance revocations are related to financial difficulties. The potential for a servicemember’s credit history to result in impacts on their career, among other things, makes it imperative that credit reports are accurate and servicemembers have the ability to monitor their credit histories in real-time. Concerningly, according to the CFPB, the most common issue servicemembers complain about is credit reports. In 2022, they sent in nearly 36,000 complaints to the CFPB related to credit reports. Inaccurate credit reports are no minor matter. Servicemembers are a group that is particularly vulnerable to identity theft. A steady income can make servicemembers a target for identity thieves looking to set up fraudulent credit accounts or tap into bank accounts. Frequent relocation may also increase servicemembers’ risk of identity theft. Further, every year, an estimated 400,000 servicemembers make a permanent change of station (PCS). PCS orders can require a new round of home and apartment searches, spouse employment searches, and utility connections that may increase the risk of personal information falling into the hands of identity thieves. Unsurprisingly, servicemembers report more cases of identity theft than other adults. A 2020 report by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) found that active-duty servicemembers were 22 percent more likely than their civilian counterparts to report that an identity thief used their stolen information to open a new credit card or other account. The report also found that servicemembers were 76 percent more likely to report that identity theft resulted in the misuse of an existing account, and three times more likely to report that identity theft resulted in money being taken directly from their accounts. In 2021, military consumers reported nearly 50,000 cases of identity theft to the FTC. Military consumers reported their information was misused to fraudulently access government benefits, credit cards, bank accounts, loans, and leases; and even to set up telephone and utility services. Often, military consumers only learn that their identity was stolen when a debt collector contacts them concerning a debt they do not believe is theirs, or a debt they do not recognize appears on their credit report. Between 2014 and 2022, military consumer complaints to the CFPB about debts they said resulted from identity theft increased nearly fivefold, from just over 200 annually in 2014, to more than 1,000 in 2022. This is why credit monitoring is so important for servicemembers. Credit monitoring, for example, will alert active-duty members of material changes to their report. Active-duty servicemembers are entitled to free credit monitoring services, however, troublingly, complaints to the CFPB suggest that your firm may be enrolling servicemembers in paid credit monitoring products without providing servicemembers with clear or sufficient information about the free credit monitoring they are eligible for. The CFPB has received complaints that suggest your firm may not be making call center representatives aware that many servicemembers have the right to free credit monitoring. In addition to free credit monitoring, servicemembers are entitled to place an active-duty alert on their credit reports. Requesting an active-duty alert also helps address identity theft by removing servicemembers’ name for two years from prescreening lists for credit offers and insurance. Unfortunately, while the CFPB has received many identity theft complaints from servicemembers, few servicemembers reported initiating an active-duty alert before departing for active-duty. Furthermore, it appears that one of the credit reporting agencies failed to remove servicemembers from prescreening lists when they did request an active-duty alert. Credit reporting agencies have a duty to be more proactive in safeguarding active servicemembers’ credit files. To ensure servicemembers receive the benefit Congress intended for them, we urge you to actively inform servicemembers about their right to free credit monitoring and active-duty alerts whenever possible, especially through the primary places servicemembers go for information about identity theft protection and credit monitoring services—your firm’s websites and call centers. Your firm should ensure that staff, including call center representatives, are trained about the free products available to servicemembers. Further, your firm should take proactive steps to identify which consumers may be servicemembers—not just wait for a servicemember to invoke their rights. Active servicemembers have many things at the forefront of their mind as they are being deployed or asked to move, they are not necessarily thinking about enforcing their consumer rights. At the very least, call center representatives should be trained so that when a consumer indicates that they are a servicemember, the representative should clearly inform the consumer about services that are available for free to verified servicemembers. Given your firm’s unique market position, it is incumbent upon you to do more to help servicemembers take advantage of the specific protections Congress provided. To better understand how you are meeting your obligations so that servicemembers can access free credit reports, active-duty alerts, and credit monitoring services, we request your response to the following questions: What is your firm doing to ensure that servicemembers are aware that they have a right to initiate an active-duty alert and are eligible to receive free credit monitoring? What statements are available on your public websites notifying servicemembers that they are entitled to free credit monitoring products and an active-duty alert? How many active duty servicemembers have requested and received free credit reports from your firm over the last five years? How many have requested and received an active-duty alert? How many servicemembers have enrolled in a paid credit monitoring products during that period? How many servicemembers who requested a free credit report or active-duty alert from your firm ended up enrolling in a paid credit monitoring product during that period? What features are available to servicemembers through paid credit monitoring products that are not available to servicemembers through the free credit monitoring products available to them? What training do your public-facing representatives—i.e., your call center representatives—undergo that informs them that servicemembers are entitled to initiate an active duty alert and to free credit monitoring products? If a customer identifies themselves as a servicemember, are your public-facing representatives trained to inform the customer that they are entitled to invoke an active-duty alert and to free credit monitoring services? Do you employ any internal monitoring systems to ensure that your public-facing representatives are informing servicemembers that they are entitled to start an active-duty alert and to free credit monitoring products? If so, please describe those systems and data related to their effectiveness. Do any of your public-facing representatives utilize sales scripts to sell servicemembers paid credit monitoring products? Please provide such sales scripts. Please provide the pricing structure for all paid credit monitoring products that your firm offers or has offered over the last five years. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/team-maryland-joint-statement-on-the-selection-of-greenbelt-for-the-fbis-new-headquarters,Team Maryland Joint Statement on the Selection of Greenbelt for the FBI's New Headquarters,2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Members of Maryland’s federal, state, and local governments including U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.), Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (Md.-05), Governor Wes Moore, Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, and Congressmen Dutch Ruppersberger (Md.-02), John Sarbanes (Md.-03), Kweisi Mfume (Md.-07), Jamie Raskin (Md.-08), David Trone (Md.-06), and Glenn Ivey (Md.-04), and Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks released the following statement regarding the General Services Administration’s decision to select Prince George’s County as the home for the new, consolidated FBI headquarters: “This is a historic moment for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and our nation. For decades, the dilapidated J. Edgar Hoover Building has failed to meet the FBI’s operational needs, which has undermined our national security. The once fabled building has crumbled before our eyes, with nets surrounding the facility for years to protect pedestrians from falling debris. Today’s decision by the General Services Administration (GSA) will ensure we fulfill the FBI’s dire, longstanding need for a new consolidated headquarters that meets the modern-day demands on the Bureau’s work to protect Americans and our nation. “After a thorough deliberation process and consideration of stakeholder input, the GSA selected the Greenbelt site as the location for the new FBI headquarters. The GSA’s analysis of the facts and its consultations revealed that the Greenbelt site is the most fitting site of the three final candidates when all factors were considered together. “We agree with the GSA’s determination that based on merit the Greenbelt site is best suited to serve the present and future FBI and the dedicated public servants who work tirelessly to protect America and uphold the law. Considering cost to the taxpayer, equity, construction timeline, transportation access, and the FBI’s mission requirements, we have long believed that Greenbelt is the best site for this crucial facility. We are pleased that the GSA arrived at the same conclusion. Our decades-long, bipartisan effort to bring the Maryland sites’ many merits to the GSA’s attention was never about politics. It was always about making the case for what is best for the FBI, our region, and the country. “Team Maryland has worked tirelessly to deliver this result together. Our close cooperation will continue as we break ground on this new headquarters and tackle other pressing issues facing Marylanders. We are committed to doing everything we can to ensure the FBI has the best possible headquarters in the quickest timeframe so that we can facilitate a smooth transition to Prince George’s County. We look forward to building a strong, productive partnership with the Bureau and its staff.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-durbin-jayapal-schakowsky-colleagues-in-urging-biden-administration-to-designate-palestinian-territories-for-temporary-protected-status-or-authorize-deferred-enforcement-departure-for-palestinians-in-us,"Van Hollen Joins Durbin, Jayapal, Schakowsky, Colleagues in Urging Biden Administration to Designate Palestinian Territories for Temporary Protected Status or Authorize Deferred Enforcement Departure for Palestinians in U.S.",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.-07) and Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.-09) and their colleagues in a letter to President Joe Biden calling on his Administration to designate the Palestinian territories for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and/or authorize Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for Palestinians present in the United States. TPS and DED offer temporary relief from removal and work authorization for eligible foreign nationals already in the United States who are unable to return safely to their home country. “In light of ongoing armed conflict, Palestinians already in the United States should not be forced to return to the Palestinian territories, consistent with President Biden’s stated commitment to protecting Palestinian civilians,” the lawmakers wrote. Following the horrific October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas and Israel’s ensuing military response, conditions in the Palestinian territories have greatly deteriorated. According to reports from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), as of November 6, at least 10,000 Palestinians have been killed. This includes more than 4,100 children, which, according to Save the Children, is more than the number of children killed in all of the world’s armed conflicts on an annual basis since 2019. The United Nations reports that almost 1.5 million of Gaza’s population of 2.2 million have been displaced. Thousands are unable to access clean water and nutrition; access to medical care has become increasingly difficult, with some health facilities in Gaza hit by bombardment and many others crippled by a lack of fuel for electricity. And in the West Bank, unrest and settler violence have resulted in the deaths of 149 Palestinians and the forcible displacement of hundreds more. “Given these conditions, it is no surprise that the U.S. Department of State extended a Level 4 Travel Advisory for Gaza due to ‘terrorism, civil unrest and armed conflict’ and a Level 3 Travel Advisory for the West Bank earlier this month for terrorism and civil unrest,” the lawmakers wrote. “Providing TPS and/or authorizing DED would protect Palestinians in the United States from being forced to return to these clearly dangerous conditions.” The lawmakers’ letter continues, “U.S. Department of State statistics indicate that 7,241 nonimmigrant visas were issued to individuals holding Palestinian Authority (PA) travel documents in 2022, the most recent year for which such data is available. While the number of non-immigrant visas issued cannot provide an exact approximation of the number of Palestinians that would be eligible for TPS or DED, it makes clear that the number of beneficiaries would be small, while the benefit could be lifesaving. TPS or DED would enable Palestinians currently present in the U.S., including students, tourists, and workers, to be protected from a dangerous return to their homeland while affording them the ability to remain safely in the U.S. and to work legally to support themselves and their families.” The lawmakers’ letter concludes, “As such, we urge your Administration to designate the Palestinian territories for TPS and/or to authorize DED for Palestinians in the United States without delay.” In addition to Senator Van Hollen, the letter led by Senator Durbin was also signed by Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.). Along with Representatives Jayapal and Schakowsky, today’s letter was signed by Representatives Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), Becca Balint (VT-At Large), Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44), Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (VA-08), Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16), Cori Bush (MO-01), Tony Cárdenas (CA-29), André Carson (IN-07), Greg Casar (TX-35), Sean Casten (IL-06), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Gerald Connolly (VA-11), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-03), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Anna G. Eshoo (CA-16), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Bill Foster (IL-11), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), John Garamendi (CA-08), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García (IL) (IL-04), Daniel S. Goldman (NY-10), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Raúl M. Grijalva (AZ-07), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Daniel T. Kildee (MI-08), Derek Kilmer (WA-06), John Larson (CT-01), Barbara Lee (CA-12), Summer Lee (PA-12), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Betty McCollum (MN-04), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Linda T. Sánchez (CA-38), Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Adam Smith (WA-09), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Susan Wild (PA-07), and Nikema Williams (GA-05). Today’s letter is endorsed by the following organizations: Arab American Institute, African Communities Together, American Civil Liberties Union, American Friends Service Committee, American Immigration Council, American Immigration Lawyers Association, American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, American Muslim Empowerment Network, Americans for Peace Now, America's Voice, Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project, Church World Service, Climate Refugees, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, Communities United for Status & Protection, Every Campus A Refuge, Friends United Meeting, Immigration Hub, Indivisible, International Refugee Assistance Project, J Street, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, MPower Change Action Fund, National Network for Arab American Communities, Northwest Immigrant Rights Project, OneAmerica, People's Action, Refugees International, TPS-DED Administrative Advocacy Coalition, T’ruah, and UndocuBlack Network. Full text of today’s letter is available here and below: Dear President Biden: We urge your Administration to designate the Palestinian territories for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and/or authorize Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for Palestinians present in the United States. As you know, TPS and DED offer temporary relief from removal and work authorization for eligible foreign nationals who are unable to return safely to their home countries or part of a country. In light of ongoing armed conflict, Palestinians already in the United States should not be forced to return to the Palestinian territories, consistent with President Biden’s stated commitment to protecting Palestinian civilians. Following the horrific October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas and Israel’s ensuing military response, conditions in the Palestinian territories have greatly deteriorated. According to reports from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), as of November 6, at least 10,000 Palestinians have been killed. This includes more than 4,100 children, which, according to Save the Children, is more than the number of children killed in all of the world’s armed conflicts on an annual basis since 2019. The United Nations reports that almost 1.5 million of Gaza’s population of 2.2 million have been displaced of which nearly 725,000 are sheltering in 149 UNRWA [United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East] installations” across the Gaza Strip. Further, OCHA reports at least 42 percent of all housing units in the Gaza strip as damaged or destroyed since October 7. Thousands are unable to access clean water and nutrition; access to medical care has become increasingly difficult, with some health facilities in Gaza hit by bombardment and many others crippled by a lack of fuel for electricity. And in the West Bank, unrest and settler violence have resulted in the deaths of 149 Palestinians and the forcible displacement of hundreds more. Such forcible displacement from the West Bank is of serious concern, and we also share the Administration’s opposition to the “displacement of Palestinians from Gaza.” At the same time, we believe that Palestinians currently in the United States who cannot safely return home at this time should have the option of seeking temporary protection. Given these conditions, it is no surprise that the U.S. Department of State extended a Level 4 Travel Advisory for Gaza due to “terrorism, civil unrest and armed conflict” and a Level 3 Travel Advisory for the West Bank earlier this month for terrorism and civil unrest. Providing TPS and/or authorizing DED would protect Palestinians in the United States from being forced to return to these clearly dangerous conditions. There is precedent for analogous designations. In 1998, there was a designation of only the Province of Kosovo in light of ongoing armed conflict. Montserrat was designated for TPS in 1997 when volcanic eruptions caused nearly two-thirds of its population to flee. At the time, Montserrat was a colony of the United Kingdom, and Montserratians did not enjoy British residency rights or citizenship. Similarly, DED is currently authorized to defer the removal of certain residents of Hong Kong present in the United States. U.S. Department of State statistics indicate that 7,241 nonimmigrant visas were issued to individuals holding Palestinian Authority (PA) travel documents in 2022, the most recent year for which such data is available. While the number of non-immigrant visas issued cannot provide an exact approximation of the number of Palestinians that would be eligible for TPS or DED, it makes clear that the number of beneficiaries would be small, while the benefit could be lifesaving. TPS or DED would enable Palestinians currently present in the U.S., including students, tourists, and workers, to be protected from a dangerous return to their homeland while affording them the ability to remain safely in the U.S. and to work legally to support themselves and their families. As such, we urge your Administration to designate the Palestinian territories for TPS and/or to authorize DED for Palestinians in the United States without delay. Thank you for your consideration of this request. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-markey-meng-statement-on-expansion-of-e-rate-program,"Van Hollen, Markey, Meng Statement on Expansion of E-Rate Program",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government, and Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06) issued the following statement today after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) proposed expanding the E-Rate program to allow schools and libraries to loan out Wi-Fi hotspots to students and educators: “The FCC’s action to expand E-Rate is a critical step to ensure millions of students and educators do not lose access to high-speed internet at home, as well as an important recognition that education extends beyond the classroom. This action could not have come at a more important time for our students. With the Emergency Connectivity Fund running out of money, millions of students could lose access to broadband internet, deepening educational inequalities and reversing our critical progress in closing the homework gap. While we work in Congress to expand upon the incredible success of the ECF program, we are pleased that the FCC is stepping up to support students and their families. We applaud Chairwoman Rosenworcel for advancing this proposed rule and look forward to working with her and the Commission to continue closing the digital divide.” The expansion will help maintain the progress made by the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF), a $7 billion program that the lawmakers created within the American Rescue Plan to provide devices and connectivity for students and educators at home. The ECF program has helped connect roughly 18 million students across the nation to their schools and teachers at home.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-murphy-schatz-and-reed-lead-majority-of-democratic-caucus-in-push-for-more-information-around-strategy-to-defeat-hamas-protect-civilians-in-gaza,"Van Hollen, Murphy, Schatz, and Reed Lead Majority of Democratic Caucus in Push for More Information around Strategy to Defeat Hamas, Protect Civilians in Gaza",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Jack Reed (D-R.I.) led the majority of the Senate Democratic Caucus in a letter to President Biden condemning the brutal terror attacks by Hamas, expressing support for immediate funding to replenish Israel’s defensive systems, and seeking information on two clear U.S. priorities: supporting an Israeli strategy that will effectively degrade and defeat the threat from Hamas and taking all possible measures to protect civilians in Gaza. In addition to Senators Van Hollen, Murphy, Schatz, and Reed the letter was signed by Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Angus King (I-Maine), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Tim Kaine (D-Va.). “We have joined you in condemning the brutal terror attacks that Hamas conducted against Israel and agree with you that Israel has the right to defend itself and hold Hamas accountable. We applaud your actions to secure the release of two American citizens held hostage and support your continued efforts to free the remaining hostages. In the days and weeks since these attacks, you have rightly demonstrated America’s commitment to support Israel in this dark hour,” the Senators begin. They continue, “The attacks of October 7th brought back chilling memories of the United States’ own confrontation with terror twenty-two years ago. In light of our own experience, we want to underscore how critical it is that Israel: (1) learn from the mistakes the United States made in our fight against terrorism by focusing on realistic and achievable military goals; and (2) abide by the laws of war, including the protection of civilians. Doing so also offers Israel the very best chance of success against Hamas in the days and weeks ahead. These steps are also necessary to create the conditions for a lasting peace, including two states for two peoples.” “We believe the United States should immediately provide Israel with the funding it needs to replenish its defensive systems, including Iron Dome and other air defense capabilities. But to better understand the efficacy of U.S. funding that supports Israel’s operations inside Gaza, we respectfully ask your team to provide us with information relative to these two clear U.S. priorities: supporting an Israeli strategy that will effectively degrade and defeat the threat from Hamas and taking all possible measures to protect civilians in Gaza,” the Senators write. The Senators go on to ask for responses on a series of wide-ranging points, including an assessment of the viability of Israel’s military strategy in Gaza, and whether it prioritizes the release of hostages, whether there is an achievable plan for governing Gaza when the Israeli military operation ends, and if Israel supports the conditions necessary to ultimately achieve a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Senators also ask what specific mechanisms the Administration is putting in place to ensure that Israeli military operations conducted inside Gaza are carried out in accordance with international humanitarian law and to ensure that any U.S.-provided equipment is used in a manner consistent with U.S. law. They request an assessment of whether Israel’s military rules of engagement, particularly regarding mitigation of civilian casualties, align with U.S. policy and practice. And they ask the Administration to seek immediate public assurances from Prime Minister Netanyahu that his coalition government will immediately stop the escalating extremist settler violence directed against unprotected Palestinians in the West Bank, as well as assurances from President Abbas that his government take steps to quell any violence against Israelis. Lastly, in their letter, the Senators press for answers on how assistance will advance our efforts to engage with Israel, Egypt, and the broader international community to address the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, noting, “we must not only do our part to provide urgently needed humanitarian relief to Gaza, but also insist that Israel take all necessary measures to help us facilitate such relief to the two million civilians living there, half of them children. That includes fully restoring water, electricity, and communication services, expediting fuel deliveries through already well-established systems for avoiding diversion to Hamas, and opening the Kerem Shalom crossing in southern Israel to increase urgently needed humanitarian relief to Gaza. Aid workers and civilian sites like schools, hospitals, and UN facilities must be protected.” They close, “We support additional assistance to Israel that: 1) aligns with an Israeli strategy that you believe will effectively degrade and defeat the threat from Hamas; 2) prioritizes the release of hostages; 3) advances a viable and achievable military plan that supports a long-term vision for peace, security and Palestinian self-determination in the form of a two-state solution; 4) abides by U.S. and international law, including the protection of civilians; and 5) advances efforts to provide desperately needed humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza. The information requested in this letter will help us assure that U.S support for Israel’s operations inside Gaza achieves these objectives.” The full text of the letter is available here and below. Dear President Biden: We have joined you in condemning the brutal terror attacks that Hamas conducted against Israel and agree with you that Israel has the right to defend itself and hold Hamas accountable. We applaud your actions to secure the release of two American citizens held hostage and support your continued efforts to free the remaining hostages. In the days and weeks since these attacks, you have rightly demonstrated America’s commitment to support Israel in this dark hour. The attacks of October 7th brought back chilling memories of the United States’ own confrontation with terror twenty-two years ago. In light of our own experience, we want to underscore how critical it is that Israel: (1) learn from the mistakes the United States made in our fight against terrorism by focusing on realistic and achievable military goals; and (2) abide by the laws of war, including the protection of civilians. Doing so also offers Israel the very best chance of success against Hamas in the days and weeks ahead. These steps are also necessary to create the conditions for a lasting peace, including two states for two peoples. We believe the United States should immediately provide Israel with the funding it needs to replenish its defensive systems, including Iron Dome and other air defense capabilities. But to better understand the efficacy of U.S. funding that supports Israel’s operations inside Gaza, we respectfully ask your team to provide us with information relative to these two clear U.S. priorities: supporting an Israeli strategy that will effectively degrade and defeat the threat from Hamas and taking all possible measures to protect civilians in Gaza. First, it is in America’s interest to ensure that any military plans to fight Hamas do not produce the same strategic mistakes as many U.S. military operations over the past few decades. As we review the Administration’s supplemental request for military assistance to Israel, we respectfully ask that you share with us your assessment of the viability of Israel’s military strategy in Gaza, and whether it prioritizes the release of hostages. We would also like to better understand whether there is an achievable plan for governing Gaza when the Israeli military operation ends. We further seek to understand if Israel supports the conditions necessary to ultimately achieve a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Second, we ask you to inform us about what specific mechanisms you are putting in place to ensure that Israeli military operations conducted inside Gaza are carried out in accordance with international humanitarian law and to ensure that any U.S.-provided equipment is used in a manner consistent with U.S. law. Relatedly, we would like to know your assessment of whether Israel’s military rules of engagement, particularly regarding mitigation of civilian casualties, align with U.S. policy and practice. In addition, to prevent another front from opening in the West Bank, we ask that you obtain public assurances from Prime Minister Netanyahu that his coalition government will immediately stop the escalating extremist settler violence directed against unprotected Palestinians there, as well as assurances from President Abbas that his government take steps to quell any violence against Israelis. Finally, we request information on how our assistance will advance our efforts to engage with Israel, Egypt, and the broader international community to address the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. As we consider additional military assistance to Israel, we must not only do our part to provide urgently needed humanitarian relief to Gaza, but also insist that Israel take all necessary measures to help us facilitate such relief to the two million civilians living there, half of them children. That includes fully restoring water, electricity, and communication services, expediting fuel deliveries through already well-established systems for avoiding diversion to Hamas, and opening the Kerem Shalom crossing in southern Israel to increase urgently needed humanitarian relief to Gaza. Aid workers and civilian sites like schools, hospitals, and UN facilities must be protected. We support additional assistance to Israel that: 1) aligns with an Israeli strategy that you believe will effectively degrade and defeat the threat from Hamas; 2) prioritizes the release of hostages; 3) advances a viable and achievable military plan that supports a long-term vision for peace, security and Palestinian self-determination in the form of a two-state solution; 4) abides by U.S. and international law, including the protection of civilians; and 5) advances efforts to provide desperately needed humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza. The information requested in this letter will help us assure that U.S support for Israel’s operations inside Gaza achieves these objectives. Mr. President, your leadership at this time of crisis has been vital. We appreciate your attention to these urgent matters. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mfume-maryland-delegation-announces-47-million-for-baltimore-county-manufacturing,"Congressman Mfume, Maryland Delegation Announces $47 Million for Baltimore County Manufacturing",2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Kweisi Mfume,M000687,mfume.house.gov,mfume,https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, and Jamie Raskin (all D-Md.) today announced $47,392,500 from the Port Infrastructure Development Program of the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration to further develop the Baltimore County Offshore Wind Manufacturing Hub at Tradepoint Atlantic. The federal dollars will be used to prepare the former site of the Bethlehem Steel shipyard and the future site of Sparrows Point Steel—Maryland’s first permanent offshore wind component factory – to accommodate heavy cargo onsite. Funds will also be used for site remediation and environmental activities. “Through both the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act, we’re bringing manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. and back to Maryland, and this investment will help make Baltimore a competitive manufacturing hub for offshore wind and a premier destination for clean energy growth,” said the lawmakers. “In addition to the estimated 500 union jobs and highly sought after storage space supported by this project, these funds will help further establish Maryland as an innovation hub for clean energy and offshore wind manufacturing.” The funding was made available through the Maritime Administration’s Port Infrastructure Development Program for fiscal year 2023. This program has expanded its investments around the country thanks to more than $2 billion included in the landmark Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The lawmakers expressed their support for this project in a letter to Rear Admiral Anne Phillips earlier this year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/11/raskin-floor-remarks-on-h-res-845,Raskin Floor Remarks on H. Res. 845,2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) today gave the following remarks on the House Floor while managing the debate of House Resolution 845, a resolution to censure Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (MI-12). Raskin urged the House to respect and protect the right to political free speech granted under the First Amendment and the Speech or Debate Clause by not using the House disciplinary process to punish Members’ political speech; warned of the chilling effects that politicizing and weaponizing the House’s censure mechanism would have on the speech of all Members; and noted that, in the history of the House of Representatives, the overwhelming number of censures have been for conduct, like taking bribes, embezzling funds, assaulting other Members, engaging in mail fraud, and having sex with pages, and that the only kinds of speech that have ever been punished have been true threats of violence, fighting words on the floor towards other Members, and incitement to insurrection and secession, none of which are protected by the Constitution and none of which are implicated here. Congressman Raskin: I have images of three politicians displayed in my office: Abraham Lincoln; Robert F. Kennedy; and Samuel F. Bellman who was the first Jewish person ever elected to the Minnesota legislature, a great champion of the Constitution, civil rights and civil liberties, and human rights, and of the creation of Israel, the Jewish Democratic State, in 1948. And he was my grandfather. He was elected at a time of terrible antisemitism, not unlike today. Minneapolis was called “the antisemitism capital of America” and my Grandpa Sam told me a story I’ll never forget. The DFL and Republican Caucuses both had their annual retreats at a country club that did not allow Jews or blacks to enter. My grandfather complained privately with the Speaker that he would not be able to go, and the Speaker apologized but said this was the tradition. So my grandfather, the only Jewish person in the Chamber, spoke on the floor about antisemitism and he was booed and jeered at and Members left as he tried to speak. When the Minority Leader asked me to manage our time today, I thought about my grandfather and how he must have felt on that day. So I’m here not in spite of the fact that I am a Jewish American who supports the Constitution and the Jewish Democratic State and hates the antisemitic tyrants and terrorists of the world, from Vladimir Putin in Russia and Mohammed Bin Salman in Saudi Arabia to Hezbollah and Hamas; I am here because of these things and because of everything I believe in and stand for. At this moment when democracy is under siege all over the world, America must stand tall for the Constitution. But this Resolution is about one thing and one thing only: the punishment of speech. So we have the chance to show the world what the American Constitution means and how we hold fast to our core principles even when we are drawn away from them by our passions and our righteous anger. The Constitution is “the Supreme Law of the land,” and the very heart of it is in our First Amendment, which protects every citizen’s freedom of speech and says Congress shall make no law abridging it. The freedom to speak includes the freedom to disagree, the right to think radically differently from the majority about important things, or else it is no freedom at all. It’s easy to defend free speech for people when you agree with them; the test for each Member is whether you can defend free speech for people when you most fundamentally and vehemently disagree with them. The First Amendment is like an apple. Everybody wants to take just one bite out of it. Someone wants to punish left-wing speech someone right-wing speech, someone sexist speech, someone radical feminist speech, homophobic speech or pro-LGBTQ speech, anti-war speech, pro-war speech, religious speech, sacrilegious speech and everybody wants a bite of the apple, but then at the end of the day, once everyone has had his or her bite, the whole apple is gone. There’s nothing left. If you want to save the apple, you have to learn to tolerate not just the speech you love the most, which is easy, but the speech you hate the most. Like the First Amendment, the Speech or Debate Clause also embodies this central value in the legislative process. It states that Members of Congress “shall in all Cases, except Treason, Felony, and Breach of the Peace, be privileged from Arrest during their attendance at the Session of their Respective Houses, and in going to and from the same; and for any Speech or Debate in either House, they shall not be questioned in any other Place.” (emphasis added) The Speech and Debate Clauses in the thirteen original colonies were the basis for the freedom of speech later established for all citizens; indeed, of the original 13, only Pennsylvania’s Constitution protected “freedom of speech” for anyone but legislators. In other words, we had better take freedom of speech seriously for legislators because if we don’t protect our own free speech, how can we protect freedom of speech for the people we represent? In the two-and-a-half century history of our Chamber, Members have been overwhelmingly censured for their actions, not for their speech. Actions like: Participating in the violent assault against Charles Sumner. Assaulting Representative Josiah Grinnell of Iowa with a cane. Selling military academy appointments. Taking bribes. Selling $33 million of stock in the Credit Mobilier scandal to fellow Members at an undervalued price to bribe them. Engaging in mail fraud and payroll fraud. Improper use of campaign funds and Congressional funds. Engaging in sexual misconduct with a House page. Do you see the difference? Not what they said, what they did. I can find only three categories of cases where speech is the sum and substance of the charge and they are all exceptions that have been ratified by the Supreme Court. One is where the speech makes violent threats against other Members of the body. As the Supreme Court found as recently as April, in Counterman v. Colorado, “true threats” of violence are never protected under the First Amendment. A second category is essentially fighting words, the use of unparliamentary or aggressively insulting language on the House floor that constitutes a direct affront to another Member. The Supreme Court has also said fighting words are not protected. The final is speech advocating or promoting treason, Confederate secession or insurrection, all of which arguably lie outside of the First Amendment because of numerous provisions opposing and condemning insurrection. That’s it: violent threats against another Member, fighting words on the floor, speech inciting insurrection or secession. But the Resolution offered against the gentlewoman from Michigan is all about censuring her for her unpopular political speech and literally nothing else. No actions, no conduct is being punished. The entire censure motion is about her speech and how much we hate it and how wrong we think it is. All of that is fine for all of us to express individually—in newspapers and the media, on the floor and in committee, in social media and in conversation—and I have told Ms. Tlaib that the phrase “from the river to the sea” is abhorrent to me and cannot be salvaged politically, at least to my taste, even with her published explanation of what she means by it, which is certainly very different from the way Hamas uses it. But, in any event, I would never think of disciplining her or punishing her because we disagree about that and have a dramatic difference in our political views. But the Resolution proposes to condemn her for quoting this objectionable phrase in her video, which is indisputably protected speech under the First Amendment. Unlike the gentleman from New York, Mr. Santos, whose proposed expulsion by Members of the Majority was rejected by a commanding bipartisan majority because he has not yet been convicted of either the criminal or ethics charges against him, Ms. Tlaib, has been criminally charged with nothing and has been civilly sued for nothing and has no ethics charges outstanding before the Ethics Committee. It’s easy to see why. She can’t face criminal punishment or civil liability for her alleged speech offenses because in the United States of America we don’t punish people for their political ideas, no matter how wrong and offensive other people think they are. Congresswoman Tlaib won reelection with 71% of the vote in Michigan’s 12th district and if anyone is going to punish her for her political ideas or manner of expression, it must be the people of her own district, who sent her here to represent them. Mr. Speaker, the disciplinary process should never be used to punish the political speech or viewpoints of a Member of this Chamber just because the majority disagrees. If you disagree, why don’t you get up and explain why your ideas are better than hers or where you think she has gone wrong in her values or analysis or explanation? Don’t punish her for not thinking the way you do. The punishment of dissenting political viewpoints will mean that Members will be censured just for being in the minority rather than actually doing something wrong. And that will come to stifle significant dialogue and haunt all of us in our work. For example, there’s another censure motion being proposed now against the Representative from Florida who compared “Palestinian civilians” to “Nazi civilians” and stated that “there are very few innocent Palestinian citizens.” The Resolution stated that his outrageous conflation of innocent Palestinian civilians with Hamas terrorists is “false, misleading, dehumanizing, dangerous and unbecoming of a Member of Congress.” This motion is the mirror image of the complaint against the Gentlewoman from Michigan, although in this case, significantly, the alleged offense consisted of statements that the Member himself made in his own words in the House. But, in any event, both Members are being charged with what are inescapably speech offenses and thought crimes. And yet the case against the Representative from Florida has been held while we have moved to a vote against Ms. Tlaib. Why is that? Solely because the Gentleman’s party is in the majority. But a disciplinary process which operates on the basis of raw partisan voting power has no integrity or legitimacy in the eyes of the public. The minute we start punishing the content or viewpoint of Members’ political speech, the process inescapably loses its legitimacy and becomes just a partisan weapon. For example, the Speaker of the House has taken positions in the past arguing that sex between consenting gay adults should be a crime, that the Supreme Court was wrong to strike down sodomy laws in Lawrence v. Texas and wrong to give gay people the right to marry in Obergefell, a right he said that is “the dark harbinger of chaos and sexual anarchy that could doom even the strongest Republic.” He even supported the idea that gay people could be cured of their malady with so-called “conversion therapy,” which has been discredited by science. Now, the vast majority of Americans reject these positions as extreme in opinion polls and believe that all citizens have the freedom to pursue their own love lives and to marry someone they love. If the House majority changes hands, should we censure the former Speaker for his constitutional apostasy and thought crimes against the rights of millions of Americans? I sure hope not, because the Gentleman from Louisiana is absolutely entitled to his extreme political and religious views no matter how outside the constitutional and American mainstream they are and no matter how much I reject them. Under the First Amendment, extremism is in the eye of the beholder. But how will we resist the temptation to punish the former Speaker in the future if we set a precedent today that Members can be censured and canceled simply for their political heresies in the eyes of the majority? If we say that the gentlelady can be punished because her views of history are wrong, can we then punish Members of this body who refused to vote to take down in our halls statues of Members of Congress from the 19th century who joined the Confederacy and committed treason against the Union, people like John Breckenridge, a former Vice President and U.S. Senator who was expelled from the Senate after he defected to the Confederacy? Should we use the disciplinary process to impose historical orthodoxy? If anything, there’s a better case for punishing the 120 Members of the House who voted against taking down statues of Confederate traitors because multiple provisions of the Constitution explicitly forbid and punish participation in insurrection. Do Members who voted that way want to risk being censured by establishing that divergent minority views on American history are a legitimate matter of institutional discipline? What about Members who defended conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and stated that the Sandy Hook and Parkland mass murders of dozens of schoolchildren were “staged” by Hollywood to generate support for gun safety measures? That’s not even a matter of opinion but adjudicated positive fact, and still the Constitution protects your right to be wrong about facts unless you’re deliberately defrauding or cheating someone out of something, like their money or campaign contributions. What about all of those Members, including the Chair of the Judiciary Committee, who follow Donald Trump in advancing the Big Lie that he actually won the 2020 election? Should we convert the 60 federal and state court decisions rejecting claims of election fraud and corruption, decisions that the Supreme Court never changed in any way, into a mass disciplinary offensive? Should we convert indisputable historical truth into discipline and punishment of dissenters and heretics? What about the 11 Members of this body who lost the 405-11 vote in 2019 recognizing that the mass killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks during World War I was a genocide? Does their denial of the genocidal character of the deaths of more than one million Armenians qualify them for institutional punishment? Can we convert differing interpretations of history into the basis for legislative punishment? Perhaps you say that political dissent should be uniquely punishable when it comes to foreign policy. But the First Amendment does not distinguish between speech having domestic policy or foreign policy content. All of it is protected. If not, every Member of this body who has voted against aid to Ukraine and praises Vladimir Putin for his “genius” and “savvy,” as former president Donald Trump did, or says “Putin is not our enemy,” as several have, could be censured for it. There were 50 Members who voted against our entrance into World War I. Maybe they were right, maybe they were wrong, but surely, they shouldn’t be censured for it. The Congresswoman from California, Ms. Lee, was the only Member for the House to vote against the open-ended authorization of use of force following 9/11, which led to our longest war in Afghanistan. Although she was vilified at the time for her vote, in the wake of 20 years of war in Afghanistan her vote today is seen as visionary by many people. Should she have been arraigned on the floor of the House of Representatives and censured for her unorthodox ideas about the dangers of war? This Resolution not only degrades our Constitution but it cheapens the meaning of discipline in this body for people who actually commit wrongful actions, like bribery, fraud, violent assault and so on. When people are punished for their political ideas and expression, they will wear it as a badge of honor; they will fundraise on it, as several have done in the past, raising millions of dollars from an outraged public; and they will join the public in mocking the speech censors of Congress. A secure constitutional Republic which actively protects the freedom of dissenting speech to allow for serious debate shows its strength—not its weakness. As Thomas Jefferson put it, “If there be any among us who would wish to dissolve this Union or to change its republican form let them stand undisturbed as monuments of the safety with which error of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it.” Now is a moment when we will get to see who in the House of Representatives believes in the freedom of speech, even the speech they hate, versus those who want to impose a political straitjacket of cancel culture on America and Congress. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/maryland-delegation-announces-47-million-for-baltimore-county-manufacturing,Maryland Delegation Announces $47 Million for Baltimore County Manufacturing,2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume and Jamie Raskin (all D-Md.) announced $47,392,500 from the Port Infrastructure Development Program of the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration to further develop the Baltimore County Offshore Wind Manufacturing Hub at Tradepoint Atlantic. The federal dollars will be used to prepare the former site of the Bethlehem Steel shipyard and the future site of Sparrows Point Steel—Maryland’s first permanent offshore wind component factory – to accommodate heavy cargo onsite. Funds will also be used for site remediation and environmental activities. “Through both the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act, we’re bringing manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. and back to Maryland, and this investment will help make Baltimore a competitive manufacturing hub for offshore wind and a premier destination for clean energy growth,” said the lawmakers. “In addition to the estimated 500 union jobs and highly sought after storage space supported by this project, these funds will help further establish Maryland as an innovation hub for clean energy and offshore wind manufacturing.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases/maryland-delegation-announces-nearly-7-billion-amtrak-infrastructure,"Maryland Delegation Announces Nearly $7 Billion for Amtrak Infrastructure, Improvement Projects",2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Glenn Ivey,I000058,ivey.house.gov,ivey,https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) today announced $6,967,506,656 for six passenger rail projects in Maryland. These major investments will support the construction of the Frederick Douglass Tunnel – which will replace the 150-year-old B&P Tunnel in Baltimore City – as well as the replacement of the Bush River, Gunpowder River, and Susquehanna River Bridges; all of which regularly cause delays in Amtrak and MARC service due to their decades-old age. Funds will also help facilitate significant renovations at Baltimore’s Penn Station, as well as speed improvements along the Northeast Corridor. The historic level of funding for these projects comes in large part from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which is making the largest federal investment in passenger rail since Amtrak’s creation. “This transformative funding is driving a once-in-a-generation effort to reinvent rail travel as we know it in Maryland. Projects like these are exactly why we fought to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” said the lawmakers. “With these federal funds, we’re creating good-paying union jobs and improving safety, efficiency, and the entire rail travel experience for the millions of passengers traveling through Maryland each year. Together with President Biden, we’re working to implement his Invest in American agenda to positively impact the lives of Marylanders in every corner of our state.” The federal dollars were made available under the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail grant program—a historic federal commitment under the infrastructure law to improve passenger rail in the United States. Awarded funds will support the following projects that will deliver long-overdue replacements and upgrades to aging infrastructure:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mfume-maryland-delegation-announces-nearly-7-billion-for-major-northeast-corridor-rail-infrastructure-improvement-projects,"Congressman Mfume, Maryland Delegation Announces Nearly $7 Billion for Major Northeast Corridor Rail Infrastructure Improvement Projects",2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Kweisi Mfume,M000687,mfume.house.gov,mfume,https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) today announced $6,967,506,656 for six passenger rail projects in Maryland. These major investments will support the construction of the Frederick Douglass Tunnel – which will replace the 150-year-old B&P Tunnel in Baltimore City – as well as the replacement of the Bush River, Gunpowder River, and Susquehanna River Bridges; all of which regularly cause delays in Amtrak and MARC service due to their decades-old age. Funds will also help facilitate significant renovations at Baltimore’s Penn Station, as well as speed improvements along the Northeast Corridor. The historic level of funding for these projects comes in large part from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which is making the largest federal investment in passenger rail since Amtrak’s creation. “This transformative funding is driving a once-in-a-generation effort to reinvent rail travel as we know it in Maryland. Projects like these are exactly why we fought to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” said the lawmakers. “With these federal funds, we’re creating good-paying union jobs and improving safety, efficiency, and the entire rail travel experience for the millions of passengers traveling through Maryland each year. Together with President Biden, we’re working to implement his Invest in American agenda to positively impact the lives of Marylanders in every corner of our state.” The federal dollars were made available under the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail grant program—a historic federal commitment under the infrastructure law to improve passenger rail in the United States. Awarded funds will support the following projects that will deliver long-overdue replacements and upgrades to aging infrastructure: $4,707,571,556, B&P Tunnel Replacement Program – Frederick Douglass Tunnel: To complete the final design and construction of a new two-track tunnel, and approach track, among other improvements, allowing rail speeds on the segment to increase from 30 mph to 110 mph. $2,081,215,100, Susquehanna River Bridge Replacement Program: To replace the current 117-year-old bridge with two new fixed, two-track bridges over the Susquehanna River between Havre De Grace and Perryville. The bridges will reduce travel time for thousands of daily passengers by increasing speeds from 90 mph to up to 160 mph on one of the tracks. $108,320,000, Baltimore Penn Station– Master Plan: For major improvements at Penn Station including the restoration of the historic existing station headhouse, updates to the utility system and construction of a new entrance, train hall, waiting area and operation facilities. $30,000,000 Gunpowder River Bridge Replacement Program: To replace the 110-year-old two-track Gunpowder River Bridge in Joppatowne with a new four-track system. The project will also replace or upgrade traffic signals, interlockings and electric traction power infrastructure. $21,600,000, NEC South End Infrastructure Renewal and Speed Improvement Planning Study: To identify critical intercity needs and improve services, like operating speeds, in Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor, including Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. $18,800,000, Bush River Bridge Replacement Program: To replace the 110-year-old two-track, movable Bush River Bridge in Perryman with a high-level four-track structure. The project will benefit freight travel and service to the Maryland Area Regional Commuter Penn Line.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/11/maryland-delegation-announces-nearly-7-billion-for-major-northeast-corridor-rail-infrastructure-improvement-projects,Maryland Delegation Announces Nearly $7 Billion for Major Northeast Corridor Rail Infrastructure Improvement Projects,2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) today announced $6,967,506,656 for six passenger rail projects in Maryland. These major investments will support the construction of the Frederick Douglass Tunnel – which will replace the 150-year-old B&P Tunnel in Baltimore City – as well as the replacement of the Bush River, Gunpowder River, and Susquehanna River Bridges; all of which regularly cause delays in Amtrak and MARC service due to their decades-old age. Funds will also help facilitate significant renovations at Baltimore’s Penn Station, as well as speed improvements along the Northeast Corridor. The historic level of funding for these projects comes in large part from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which is making the largest federal investment in passenger rail since Amtrak’s creation. “This transformative funding is driving a once-in-a-generation effort to reinvent rail travel as we know it in Maryland. Projects like these are exactly why we fought to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” said the lawmakers. “With these federal funds, we’re creating good-paying union jobs and improving safety, efficiency, and the entire rail travel experience for the millions of passengers traveling through Maryland each year. Together with President Biden, we’re working to implement his Invest in American agenda to positively impact the lives of Marylanders in every corner of our state.” The federal dollars were made available under the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail grant program—a historic federal commitment under the infrastructure law to improve passenger rail in the United States. Awarded funds will support the following projects that will deliver long-overdue replacements and upgrades to aging infrastructure: $4,707,571,556, B&P Tunnel Replacement Program – Frederick Douglass Tunnel: To complete the final design and construction of a new two-track tunnel, and approach track, among other improvements, allowing rail speeds on the segment to increase from 30 mph to 110 mph. $2,081,215,100, Susquehanna River Bridge Replacement Program: To replace the current 117-year-old bridge with two new fixed, two-track bridges over the Susquehanna River between Havre De Grace and Perryville. The bridges will reduce travel time for thousands of daily passengers by increasing speeds from 90 mph to up to 160 mph on one of the tracks. $108,320,000, Baltimore Penn Station – Master Plan: For major improvements at Penn Station including the restoration of the historic existing station headhouse, updates to the utility system and construction of a new entrance, train hall, waiting area and operation facilities. $30,000,000 Gunpowder River Bridge Replacement Program: To replace the 110-year-old two-track Gunpowder River Bridge in Joppatowne with a new four-track system. The project will also replace or upgrade traffic signals, interlockings and electric traction power infrastructure. $21,600,000, NEC South End Infrastructure Renewal and Speed Improvement Planning Study: To identify critical intercity needs and improve services, like operating speeds, in Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor, including Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. $18,800,000, Bush River Bridge Replacement Program: To replace the 110-year-old two-track, movable Bush River Bridge in Perryman with a high-level four-track structure. The project will benefit freight travel and service to the Maryland Area Regional Commuter Penn Line. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/maryland-delegation-announces-nearly-7-billion-for-major-northeast-corridor-rail-infrastructure-improvement-projects,Maryland Delegation Announces Nearly $7 Billion for Major Northeast Corridor Rail Infrastructure Improvement Projects,2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $6,967,506,656 for six passenger rail projects in Maryland. These major investments will support the construction of the Frederick Douglass Tunnel – which will replace the 150-year-old B&P Tunnel in Baltimore City – as well as the replacement of the Bush River, Gunpowder River, and Susquehanna River Bridges; all of which regularly cause delays in Amtrak and MARC service due to their decades-old age. Funds will also help facilitate significant renovations at Baltimore’s Penn Station, as well as speed improvements along the Northeast Corridor. The historic level of funding for these projects comes in large part from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which is making the largest federal investment in passenger rail since Amtrak’s creation. “This transformative funding is driving a once-in-a-generation effort to reinvent rail travel as we know it in Maryland. Projects like these are exactly why we fought to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” said the lawmakers. “With these federal funds, we’re creating good-paying union jobs and improving safety, efficiency, and the entire rail travel experience for the millions of passengers traveling through Maryland each year. Together with President Biden, we’re working to implement his Invest in American agenda to positively impact the lives of Marylanders in every corner of our state.” The federal dollars were made available under the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail grant program—a historic federal commitment under the infrastructure law to improve passenger rail in the United States. Awarded funds will support the following projects that will deliver long-overdue replacements and upgrades to aging infrastructure:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-join-colleagues-in-bipartisan-vote-to-confirm-judge-matthew-maddox-for-the-us-district-court-of-maryland,"Van Hollen, Cardin Join Colleagues in Bipartisan Vote to Confirm Judge Matthew Maddox for the U.S. District Court of Maryland",2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) praised confirmation of U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew Maddox to serve as U.S. District Court Judge for the District of Maryland. The bipartisan vote Tuesday was 55-42. Earlier this month, the Senate confirmed Marylander Brendan Hurson to fill the other opening on the federal district court. “Judge Maddox has a proven commitment to upholding the highest standards of equal justice under the law. With his confirmation to the U.S. District Court of Maryland bench, he’ll bring his extensive years of public service and courtroom experience – including as a former federal prosecutor and magistrate judge – and a long record of legal expertise. We were proud to support Judge Maddox’s nomination and confirmation and grateful he has answered the call to serve the public on this court,” said Senator Van Hollen. “Judge Maddox has the skills and the Maryland experience we need on the federal bench at this time,” said Senator Cardin. “A former prosecutor who is dedicated to public service, Judge Maddox has a long history of integrity and judicial competence, and I am pleased to see the Senate elevate him from Magistrate to District Judge. We recommended Judge Maddox to President Biden for this judicial vacancy because of our confidence that he will safeguard the rights of all Marylanders, and uphold the Constitution and rule of law, as he has done throughout his legal career.” With Judge Maddox’s confirmation, the United States District Court for the District of Maryland has its full complement of 10 active judges. However, United States Chief District Judge James Bredar has informed the White House and the U.S. Senate of his intention to take senior status in April 2024, which will open a new vacancy. Senators Van Hollen and Cardin are now accepting applications for lawyers interested in this position. The senators anticipate making recommendations to President Biden from among the applicants. Application details are available here: https://www.cardin.senate.gov/judges/ The deadline for applications is close of business (COB) Monday, November 13, 2023. U.S. MAGISTRATE JUDGE MATTHEW MADDOX U.S. Magistrate Judge Maddox graduated summa cum laude from Morgan State University in Baltimore in 1999, where he majored in philosophy and religious studies, and minored in psychology. After receiving his B.A. degree, Judge Maddox was a Fulbright Scholar and taught high school through the Teach for America program. Judge Maddox received his J.D. degree from the Yale Law School in 2011. Upon graduation from law school, Judge Maddox served as a law clerk to the Honorable Gerald Bruce Lee, United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Virginia. From October 2012 to August 2014, Judge Maddox worked as a litigation associate at the law firm of Holland & Knight in Washington, D.C. From August 2014 to August 2015, Judge Maddox served as a law clerk to the Honorable André M. Davis, a judge serving on the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. In September 2015, Judge Maddox was appointed as an Assistant United States Attorney in the District of Maryland. In this capacity, Judge Maddox prosecuted a range of criminal cases and conducted trainings for law enforcement on the topics of human trafficking and identity theft. In November 2020, Judge Maddox was selected to serve as Deputy Chief of the Major Crimes Section in the Northern Division of the United States Attorney’s Office.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases/maryland-delegation-members-announce-over-5-million-strengthen-maternal-health,Maryland Delegation Members Announce Over $5 Million to Strengthen Maternal Health Care Across Maryland,2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Glenn Ivey,I000058,ivey.house.gov,ivey,https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $5,230,218 to support better access to maternal health care across Maryland. This federal funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Health Resources and Services Administration’s (HRSA) Maternal Health Awards, will provide five maternal health programs with additional resources to combat maternal mortality and improve maternal and infant health outcomes, especially in underserved communities across the state. “Our nation’s unacceptable maternal mortality rate has left far too many children to grow up without their mothers. Our health care system is failing pregnant women, especially Black and Latina women, who experience higher rates of pregnancy-related complications and death. As we continue our work in Congress to address the systemic drivers of maternal mortality, these investments to improve health care for women before, during and after pregnancy will help tackle health disparities, save moms’ lives and ensure more women can deliver healthy babies,” said the lawmakers. The federal grants have been awarded as follows: $1,798,769 to the Maryland Department of Health to foster the development and demonstration of integrated maternal health services models; $1,670,233 to The Johns Hopkins University to reduce maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity through demonstrations focused on improving maternal health and addressing maternal health disparities through quality services, a skilled workforce, enhanced data quality and capacity, and innovative programming; $1,078,539 to Medstar Health Research Institute, Inc. in Hyattsville to improve health outcomes before, during and after pregnancy and reduce the well-documented racial/ethnic differences in rates of infant death and adverse perinatal outcomes; $483,400 to Morgan State University to help establish a multi-institutional research network that is comprised of and supports minority-serving institutions (MSIs) to build capacity to conduct research addressing disparities in maternal mortality, severe maternal morbidity, and maternal health outcomes and to find community-based solutions to address these disparities and advance health equity; $199,277 to the Maryland Department of Health to support the capacity to implement Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM) patient safety bundles and expand the reach, depth and quality of AIM implementation. The lawmakers have long-supported efforts to strengthen maternal health care and reduce maternal mortality. They supported the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act, which included 12 bills to comprehensively address the drivers of the maternal health crisis and make critical investments in addressing the social determinants of health, funding community-based organizations, growing and diversifying the perinatal workforce and improving data collection processes. The legislation passed the House in 2021 as part of the Build Back Better Act but never made it to the President’s desk for signature. The lawmakers have continued to support strengthening maternal care through the annual appropriations process, including by securing $1.17 billion for the core Maternal and Child Health programs in the fiscal year 2023 appropriations package.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mfume-maryland-delegation-members-announce-over-5-million-to-strengthen-maternal-health-care-across-maryland,"Congressman Mfume, Maryland Delegation Members Announce Over $5 Million to Strengthen Maternal Health Care Across Maryland",2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Kweisi Mfume,M000687,mfume.house.gov,mfume,https://mfume.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $5,230,218 to support better access to maternal health care across Maryland. This federal funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Health Resources and Services Administration’s (HRSA) Maternal Health Awards, will provide five maternal health programs with additional resources to combat maternal mortality and improve maternal and infant health outcomes, especially in underserved communities across the state. “Our nation’s unacceptable maternal mortality rate has left far too many children to grow up without their mothers. Our health care system is failing pregnant women, especially Black and Latina women, who experience higher rates of pregnancy-related complications and death. As we continue our work in Congress to address the systemic drivers of maternal mortality, these investments to improve health care for women before, during and after pregnancy will help tackle health disparities, save moms’ lives and ensure more women can deliver healthy babies,” said the lawmakers. The federal grants have been awarded as follows: $1,798,769to the Maryland Department of Health to foster the development and demonstration of integrated maternal health services models; $1,670,233 to The Johns Hopkins University to reduce maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity through demonstrations focused on improving maternal health and addressing maternal health disparities through quality services, a skilled workforce, enhanced data quality and capacity, and innovative programming; $1,078,539 to Medstar Health Research Institute, Inc. in Hyattsville to improve health outcomes before, during and after pregnancy and reduce the well-documented racial/ethnic differences in rates of infant death and adverse perinatal outcomes; $483,400 to Morgan State University to help establish a multi-institutional research network that is comprised of and supports minority-serving institutions (MSIs) to build capacity to conduct research addressing disparities in maternal mortality, severe maternal morbidity, and maternal health outcomes and to find community-based solutions to address these disparities and advance health equity; $199,277 to the Maryland Department of Health to support the capacity to implement Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM) patient safety bundles and expand the reach, depth and quality of AIM implementation. The lawmakers have long-supported efforts to strengthen maternal health care and reduce maternal mortality. They supported the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act, which included 12 bills to comprehensively address the drivers of the maternal health crisis and make critical investments in addressing the social determinants of health, funding community-based organizations, growing and diversifying the perinatal workforce and improving data collection processes. The legislation passed the House in 2021 as part of the Build Back Better Act but never made it to the President’s desk for signature. The lawmakers have continued to support strengthening maternal care through the annual appropriations process, including by securing $1.17 billion for the core Maternal and Child Health programs in the fiscal year 2023 appropriations package. HRSA, located in North Bethesda, Maryland, is the primary federal agency for improving access to health care services for people who are uninsured, isolated or medically vulnerable. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/11/maryland-delegation-members-announce-over-5-million-to-strengthen-maternal-health-care-across-maryland,Maryland Delegation Members Announce Over $5 Million to Strengthen Maternal Health Care Across Maryland,2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $5,230,218 to support better access to maternal health care across Maryland. This federal funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Health Resources and Services Administration’s (HRSA) Maternal Health Awards, will provide five maternal health programs with additional resources to combat maternal mortality and improve maternal and infant health outcomes, especially in underserved communities across the state. “Our nation’s unacceptable maternal mortality rate has left far too many children to grow up without their mothers. Our health care system is failing pregnant women, especially Black and Latina women, who experience higher rates of pregnancy-related complications and death. As we continue our work in Congress to address the systemic drivers of maternal mortality, these investments to improve health care for women before, during and after pregnancy will help tackle health disparities, save moms’ lives and ensure more women can deliver healthy babies,” said the lawmakers. The federal grants have been awarded as follows: $1,798,769 to the Maryland Department of Health to foster the development and demonstration of integrated maternal health services models; $1,670,233 to The Johns Hopkins University to reduce maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity through demonstrations focused on improving maternal health and addressing maternal health disparities through quality services, a skilled workforce, enhanced data quality and capacity, and innovative programming; $1,078,539 to Medstar Health Research Institute, Inc. in Hyattsville to improve health outcomes before, during and after pregnancy and reduce the well-documented racial/ethnic differences in rates of infant death and adverse perinatal outcomes; $483,400 to Morgan State University to help establish a multi-institutional research network that is comprised of and supports minority-serving institutions (MSIs) to build capacity to conduct research addressing disparities in maternal mortality, severe maternal morbidity, and maternal health outcomes and to find community-based solutions to address these disparities and advance health equity; $199,277 to the Maryland Department of Health to support the capacity to implement Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM) patient safety bundles and expand the reach, depth and quality of AIM implementation. The lawmakers have long-supported efforts to strengthen maternal health care and reduce maternal mortality. They supported the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act, which included 12 bills to comprehensively address the drivers of the maternal health crisis and make critical investments in addressing the social determinants of health, funding community-based organizations, growing and diversifying the perinatal workforce and improving data collection processes. The legislation passed the House in 2021 as part of the Build Back Better Act but never made it to the President’s desk for signature. The lawmakers have continued to support strengthening maternal care through the annual appropriations process, including by securing $1.17 billion for the core Maternal and Child Health programs in the fiscal year 2023 appropriations package. HRSA, located in North Bethesda, Maryland, is the primary federal agency for improving access to health care services for people who are uninsured, isolated or medically vulnerable. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/maryland-delegation-members-announce-over-5-million-to-strengthen-maternal-health-care-across-maryland,Maryland Delegation Members Announce Over $5 Million to Strengthen Maternal Health Care Across Maryland,2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $5,230,218 to support better access to maternal health care across Maryland. This federal funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Health Resources and Services Administration’s (HRSA) Maternal Health Awards, will provide five maternal health programs with additional resources to combat maternal mortality and improve maternal and infant health outcomes, especially in underserved communities across the state. “Our nation’s unacceptable maternal mortality rate has left far too many children to grow up without their mothers. Our health care system is failing pregnant women, especially Black and Latina women, who experience higher rates of pregnancy-related complications and death. As we continue our work in Congress to address the systemic drivers of maternal mortality, these investments to improve health care for women before, during and after pregnancy will help tackle health disparities, save moms’ lives and ensure more women can deliver healthy babies,” said the lawmakers. The federal grants have been awarded as follows: $1,798,769 to the Maryland Department of Health to foster the development and demonstration of integrated maternal health services models; $1,670,233 to The Johns Hopkins University to reduce maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity through demonstrations focused on improving maternal health and addressing maternal health disparities through quality services, a skilled workforce, enhanced data quality and capacity, and innovative programming; $1,078,539 to Medstar Health Research Institute, Inc. in Hyattsville to improve health outcomes before, during and after pregnancy and reduce the well-documented racial/ethnic differences in rates of infant death and adverse perinatal outcomes; $483,400 to Morgan State University to help establish a multi-institutional research network that is comprised of and supports minority-serving institutions (MSIs) to build capacity to conduct research addressing disparities in maternal mortality, severe maternal morbidity, and maternal health outcomes and to find community-based solutions to address these disparities and advance health equity; $199,277 to the Maryland Department of Health to support the capacity to implement Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM) patient safety bundles and expand the reach, depth and quality of AIM implementation. The lawmakers have long-supported efforts to strengthen maternal health care and reduce maternal mortality. They supported the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act, which included 12 bills to comprehensively address the drivers of the maternal health crisis and make critical investments in addressing the social determinants of health, funding community-based organizations, growing and diversifying the perinatal workforce and improving data collection processes. The legislation passed the House in 2021 as part of the Build Back Better Act but never made it to the President’s desk for signature. The lawmakers have continued to support strengthening maternal care through the annual appropriations process, including by securing $1.17 billion for the core Maternal and Child Health programs in the fiscal year 2023 appropriations package. HRSA, located in North Bethesda, Maryland, is the primary federal agency for improving access to health care services for people who are uninsured, isolated or medically vulnerable.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-lujan-merkley-urge-biden-administration-to-protect-palestinian-communities-in-the-west-bank,"Van Hollen, Luján, Merkley Urge Biden Administration to Protect Palestinian Communities in the West Bank",2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) wrote to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to urge the Israeli government to uphold the rule of law in the West Bank and discourage extremist settlers from violent attacks against Palestinian communities. The destabilizing impact of such violence and the displacement of Palestinians in the West Bank further threatens stability in the region, including by strengthening Hamas, undermining the Palestinian Authority, and threatening to open another front in this conflict. After visiting Susya earlier this year, the Senators were deeply moved by the villagers’ stories. Recent reports have detailed a disturbing incident in which Israeli settlers, possibly accompanied by Israel Defense Forces personnel, attacked the residents living in the Palestinian community. In August, the Senators called on Prime Minister Netanyahu to ensure Susya residents have access to the water pipeline that runs through the area. “We personally visited Susya earlier this year and were deeply moved by the villagers’ stories of displacement, of ongoing deprivation of resources and of intimidation by neighboring settlers. As one of the largest unrecognized Palestinian communities in the Masafer Yatta region, Susya has received significant international attention and support in the face of similar threats and attacks,” the Senators wrote. “We are profoundly concerned that the forced displacement of Susya would further embolden violent settler attacks and intimidation against the surrounding communities. Since the Israel-Hamas War began, there has been a growing number of incidents in which settlers have been documented attacking nearby Palestinian communities, at times escorted by Israeli soldiers. These actions endanger the possibility of a two-state solution,” the Senators continued. “Therefore, we urge you to immediately and strongly convey to the Israeli government its responsibility to uphold the rule of law in the West Bank and protect civilians under its jurisdiction, while holding perpetrators of these attacks to account.” The full letter can be found here and below: Dear Secretary Blinken, As strong supporters of the US-Israel relationship, we watched in horror on October 7th as Hamas mounted a heinous terror attack against Israel, killing more than 1,400 Israelis. We thank you for your leadership during this time. The conversations you’ve had with leaders in the Middle East have been critical in addressing the humanitarian crisis and helping to secure the release of the hostages. However, as Jake Sullivan stated rightly, it is the responsibility of the Israeli government to “rein in” extremist settlers in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, saying that “it is totally unacceptable to have extremist settler violence against innocent people in the West Bank.” Recent reports from October 28th have drawn our attention to a disturbing incident in which settlers, possibly accompanied by Israel Defense Forces personnel, attacked the residents of the Palestinian community of Susya in the South Hebron Hills. It’s our understanding that settlers also threatened the village with an ultimatum to evacuate within 24 hours or face further violence and intimidation. We personally visited Susya earlier this year and were deeply moved by the villagers’ stories of displacement, of ongoing deprivation of resources and of intimidation by neighboring settlers. As one of the largest unrecognized Palestinian communities in the Masafer Yatta region, Susya has received significant international attention and support in the face of similar threats and attacks. We are profoundly concerned that the forced displacement of Susya would further embolden violent settler attacks and intimidation against the surrounding communities. Since the Israel-Hamas War began, there has been a growing number of incidents in which settlers have been documented attacking nearby Palestinian communities, at times escorted by Israeli soldiers. These actions endanger the possibility of a two-state solution. Therefore, we urge you to immediately and strongly convey to the Israeli government its responsibility to uphold the rule of law in the West Bank and protect civilians under its jurisdiction, while holding perpetrators of these attacks to account. The destabilizing impact of such continued violence and further displacement of Palestinians in the West Bank threatens to expand the current war to another devastating front. We echo President Biden’s concern that attacks by “extremist settlers” amounts to “pouring gasoline” on the already burning fires in the region.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-senators-release-statement-regarding-humanitarian-aid-to-civilians-in-gaza,"Van Hollen, Senators Release Statement Regarding Humanitarian Aid to Civilians in Gaza",2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) joined Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Peter Welch (D-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Murphy (D-CT), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), released the following statement: “The tragic war in Gaza, initiated by Hamas terrorist attacks on innocent civilians on October 7, is causing heartbreaking suffering among Israelis, Palestinians and citizens of other nations living in the region. “Israel has the right and obligation to defend itself against Hamas, whose leadership continues to state clearly that their goal is the complete annihilation of Israel. Israel also has the obligation, pursuant to international law, to conduct that defense in such a way as to minimize harm to civilians and allow humanitarian aid to reach those who are suffering. We acknowledge the increased burden that this necessarily places on Israel to accomplish these obligations. “Hamas’s horrific actions cannot be ascribed to all Palestinians. Indeed, Palestinian residents of Gaza have often been victimized by Hamas. “As Senators, we have been closely monitoring the war in Gaza and believe that much more must be done to protect civilian life. We have been in ongoing dialogue with government officials in the United States, Israel and other nations in the region. We have communicated extensively with international aid officials doing work in Gaza, including those working together with the U.S. Agency for International Development. And we have talked at length with our own constituents who have family and friends in the region. “The failure to adequately protect non-combatant civilians risks dramatic escalation of the conflict in the region and imposes severe damage on prospects for peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians. Based on the consensus opinion of U.S. and international aid officials, it is nearly impossible to deliver sufficient humanitarian aid to protect civilian life under current conditions. “Thus, we join President Biden in his call for a short-term cessation of hostilities that pose high-risk to civilians, aid workers or humanitarian aid delivery in Gaza, in order to accomplish three goals: Successful delivery of needed humanitarian aid to civilians under strict and necessary oversight Increased focus on the release of all hostages kidnapped on October 7",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/11/raskin-statement-on-vote-against-h-res-773,Raskin Statement on Vote Against H. Res. 773,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) released the following statement after voting “No” on House Resolution 773, a resolution to expel Congressman George Santos (NY-03) from the House of Representatives. “I’m a Constitution guy. The House has expelled five people in our history, three for joining the Confederacy as traitors to the Union and two after they were convicted of serious criminal offenses. Santos has not been criminally convicted yet of any of the offenses he has been indicted for that were cited in the Resolution nor has he been found guilty of ethics offenses in the House internal process. “This would be a terrible precedent to set, expelling people who have not been convicted of a crime and without internal due process. If and when Santos is convicted of these serious criminal offenses or ethics charges, I will certainly vote to expel him. Until then, it’s a very risky road to go down and we have to stick by due process and the rule of law, as obvious as the eventual result seems. In these times of war, chaos, insurrection, division and lawlessness, the rule of law is a lifeline for us. “I can think of four or five Democratic Members the Republicans would like to expel without any criminal conviction or adverse ethics findings tomorrow simply because they hate their politics. Indeed, the same New York Republicans who want to expel Santos now because he is a complete political albatross for them acted to vigorously defend him in the spring because they wanted his vote for their party on the floor. If Members are not going to be expelled for purely political reasons, we need to stick to due process and the rule of law. “Back in the spring, the Republicans promised action within 60 days on the sprawling Santos ethics investigation, but nothing has happened since then. Now, they are promising action by November 17. Good, it’s about time.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-sanders-padilla-introduce-legislation-to-extend-social-security-benefits-for-students,"Van Hollen, Sanders, Padilla Introduce Legislation to Extend Social Security Benefits for Students",2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) introduced legislation to extend Social Security benefits to age 26 for students who are survivors, children of disabled workers, and eligible grandchildren of retired workers. The Senators’ legislation, the Helping Students Successfully Overcome Adversity and Rise (SOAR) with Social Security Act, would restore critical support for families enduring financial struggle and bolster the future success of their children. “Children who receive Social Security benefits have been dealt challenging hardships – like the loss of a parent – through no fault of their own. These young people face real financial burdens that often require them to work to make up for limited family income, which can cause them to fall behind in school. This legislation will provide the support these students and their families need to overcome barriers to educational success and future economic stability,” said Senator Van Hollen. “With college tuition costs increasing exponentially, we need to do more to support our students and families struggling to pay for postsecondary education,” said Senator Padilla. “Social Security children’s benefits are an essential resource to help families make up for lost income. Removing barriers and extending these benefits until age 26 for eligible postsecondary students would improve access to higher education for thousands of young Americans.” Social Security provides critical benefits to nearly 3 million children ages 19 and younger. For the families of these children, the benefits serve as critical wage replacement when income is lost due to retirement, disability, or death. After Lyndon B. Johnson expanded the Social Security program in 1965, eligible child Social Security dependents were permitted to continue benefits as qualifying post-secondary students. The program, whose beneficiaries were disproportionately first-generation college students, low-income, or from underrepresented backgrounds, was repealed in 1982 with the Reagan Administration’s cuts to Social Security. Studies have shown that the elimination of the program reduced the probability of a student beneficiary attending college by one-third. Today, with families enduring financial hardship and college enrollment rates still recovering from the pandemic, extending the child benefit for post-secondary students would serve as a lifeline for our nation’s most vulnerable families. By amending the Social Security Act to extend eligibility for child’s benefits until age 26 for at least half-time post-secondary students who are survivors, children of disabled workers, and eligible grandchildren of retired workers, the Helping Students SOAR with Social Security Act would provide families with crucial support to increase educational opportunity. Text of the bill is available here. The Helping Students SOAR with Social Security Act is endorsed by: Blue Future, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), Generations United, National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA), Social Security Works, and Strengthen Social Security Coalition. “Social Security is our nation's largest children's program. It provides benefits to over 3 million children. Those benefits should continue when these children are in college or other post-secondary education, as they once did. Social Security Works enthusiastically endorses the Helping Students SOAR with Social Security Act, which restores and expands this crucial benefit, enabling some of our nation's most vulnerable young people to get an education without drowning in debt. All of us owe a huge thanks to Senator Van Hollen for his wise, important legislation,” said Nancy Altman, President of Social Security Works. “For more than 80 years Social Security has been the premier example of an intergenerational policy designed to secure and insure the well-being of individuals and their families, including by providing essential support to spouses and children of people who have died or are disabled. This legislation will ensure that support extends beyond 18 to help students complete or continue their education, lessen the overwhelming burden of student debt, and help young adults become the educated workforce our country needs,” said Donna Butts, Executive Director of Generations United.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-questions-blinken-and-austin-on-hamas-attack-israeli-and-palestinian-civilian-casualties-status-of-humanitarian-assistance-and-extremist-settler-violence-in-the-west-bank-at-national-security-supplemental-funding-hearing,"VAN HOLLEN QUESTIONS BLINKEN AND AUSTIN ON HAMAS ATTACK, ISRAELI AND PALESTINIAN CIVILIAN CASUALTIES, STATUS OF HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE, AND EXTREMIST SETTLER VIOLENCE IN THE WEST BANK AT NATIONAL SECURITY SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDING HEARING",2023-10-31,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) questioned Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III during a hearing on President Biden’s proposed national security supplemental request. A transcript of his questions and Secretary Blinken’s and Secretary Austin’s responses is available below and video is available here. SENATOR CHRIS VAN HOLLEN (D-Md.): Thank you, Madam Chair. Mr. Secretary, in the aftermath of the horror visited upon Israel by Hamas and the ongoing war in Gaza, much of the world has turned its eye away from what's happening on the West Bank. And what we're seeing – and our own folks on the ground have been reporting this on a daily basis – is that with support of extremists in the Netanyahu government, people like Smotrich and Ben Gvir, extremist settler violence against Palestinians has skyrocketed as more Palestinians are pushed off their land in Area C. As you know, all this does is strengthen Hamas, undermine the already weak P.A. and open another front in this war. I know the President has raised this issue with Prime Minister Netanyahu. But, according to every report I get – and I know both you Secretaries get these – we've seen no improvement. So, my question is pretty simple: what is your plan beyond urging that something be done, when our pleas continue to be ignored? ANTONY J. BLINKEN, U.S. SECRETARY OF STATE: Senator Van Hollen, with regard to the West Bank, we very much share the concern that you've expressed. The Palestinian Authority is doing everything that it can to keep security, to keep stability, in the West Bank. It's vastly under-resourced – this is another aspect of the problem. And we've urged the Israelis, for example, to provide the Authority with the resources that it needs that are being held back – tax revenues and other fees that it collects and then normally gives to the Authority – so that it can do its business to release those. And at the same time, the President himself has been very clear, very direct, and very explicit about our concerns about extreme settler violence and the impact that that's having on the West Bank, including adding fuel to the fire. We've seen that people have been, in effect, forcibly displaced from their communities as well as killed. So, this is something that we are in direct communication and conversation with the Israeli government at the very highest levels – and something we're tracking very carefully. LLOYD J. AUSTIN III, U.S. SECRETARY OF DEFENSE: Tony, if I could add just: you know, I mentioned earlier I talk to my counterpart nearly every day, and this is something that I bring up every time I talk to him. As you mentioned, Senator, I'm watching these reports. And some of the things that we're seeing are fairly disturbing – and it will work against them going forward, if they don't make a decision to control this matter. VAN HOLLEN: Thank you. It really needs to stop. Later in the hearing, Senator Van Hollen continued his questioning of Secretary Austin: SENATOR CHRIS VAN HOLLEN (D-Md.): Thank you, Madam Chair. Secretary Austin, thank you for your service. And I agree that we have to provide the people of Ukraine with military assistance that they need to defend themselves against Putin's aggression. And President Biden is right to stand with Israel in its hour of need. All of us have been repulsed by the horror and brutality of the Hamas terror attacks that left over 1,400 innocent Israelis murdered, including women and children – including those massacred at Kibbutz Kfar Aza which I visited in June. When scaled to the size of the U.S. population, that is comparable to over 40,000 Americans killed – a horror that will never be erased. All of us agree that Israel not only has the right but the duty to defend itself and eliminate the threat from Hamas. Hamas must immediately release all the hostages – and as Israel conducts its operations, many of us believe it should prioritize returning the hostages safely home. Also, as President Biden has said, it must conduct its operations in accordance with the laws of war. Not only because taking all possible measures to avoid civilian casualties and human suffering is morally and legally required, but that it is also in the best strategic interests of the United States and Israel to do so – something both you and Secretary Blinken have affirmed today. The President has been very clear about the need to distinguish between Hamas and the overwhelming number of Gaza's over two million Palestinian civilians who have nothing to do with Hamas. But some members of Prime Minister Netanyahu's coalition have indicated that all Palestinians in Gaza are responsible for the horror visited upon Israel. And Israel has imposed, as you know, a full siege on the people of Gaza: cutting off most water, food, medicine, electricity, and fuel shipments. Secretary Blinken described the desperate humanitarian situation in his testimony today. But to date, we have only seen a trickle – a trickle – of the needed humanitarian aid crossing the Rafah border. I saw the readout from your conversation today with Minister Gallant, where you indicated, and I quote, that “humanitarian law requires that there be unfettered humanitarian assistance.” So, Mr. Secretary, simple question: we've got a trickle going – you would agree that in the interests of humanitarian law and helping innocent people in Gaza, we have to do a lot better? Simple question. LLOYD J. AUSTIN III, U.S. SECRETARY OF DEFENSE: I agree, Senator. And as I said earlier, it’s a moral and operational and strategic imperative. If you fail to do that, then I think we're going to create a problem that – they will create a problem, a bigger problem, for themselves. VAN HOLLEN: Now, the siege is being accompanied by a ferocious bombing campaign. In just the first six days of the war, Israel dropped 6,000 bombs in the densely populated Gaza Strip. Israel has stopped reporting the number of bombs being dropped, but the intense pace has continued. Last night, my wife and I learned that someone we know well lost two family members and four of their children killed in bombing in Gaza. So, they are not yet included in the most recent death toll reported by the United Nations yesterday, which says the number of dead has risen to over 8,300 people – 70 percent of them women and children, including 3,457 children. These are U.N. figures. According to U.N. figures, that is about six times more children killed in three weeks in Gaza than the number of children killed in Ukraine during the entire war there. And if you scale the death of those Palestinian children to the United States’ population, it's comparable to over 230,000 American children killed. The executive director of UNICEF, Catherine Russell, said at the current rate, more than 420 children are being killed or injured in Gaza each day. A number she said, which “should shake us to our core.” I agree. Now, Mr. Secretary, I know that people on opposing sides of this conflict provide different reasons for why the death toll is so high. And you are right about Hamas' despicable practices of operating among civilians. But regardless of the explanation, we must not look away from these terrible facts. You and the President have repeatedly said that Israel must comply with the rules of war. But as we consider additional American military assistance to Israel's fight in Gaza, don't we have an obligation not only to state that expectation but to ensure that our support is used in a manner that complies with the laws of war and U.S. law? That's my question, Mr. Secretary. AUSTIN: We will continue to emphasize to our allies here the necessity to account for the civilians that are in the battle space. They are a part of the battle space. They must account for them. They must do the right thing in terms of taking that into consideration as they do their targeting. They must create – VAN HOLLEN: Mr. Secretary, with respect, my question is a little different. My question is now that we're talking about – SENATOR PATTY MURRAY (D-Wash.): Senator Van Hollen, I apologize, Secretary Austin has just a few minutes left, and we still have four senators.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-murray-sanders-wyden-baldwin-senators-in-urging-the-biden-administration-to-require-insurers-to-fully-cover-over-the-counter-birth-control-with-no-out-of-pocket-costs-or-prescription-barrier,"Van Hollen Joins Murray, Sanders, Wyden, Baldwin, Senators in Urging the Biden Administration to Require Insurers to Fully Cover Over-the-Counter Birth Control, With No Out-of-Pocket Costs or Prescription Barrier",2023-10-30,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and their Senate colleagues in sending a letter urging the Biden Administration to require federally and state-regulated health insurance plans to fully cover over-the-counter contraceptives, including Opill—the first-ever FDA-approved over-the-counter birth control pill, which will become available in early 2024—with no copays or out of pocket costs, and without a prescription requirement. “We urge you to improve health insurance coverage, both public and private, of the full range of FDA-approved, granted, or cleared contraceptive products—including birth control that is available over-the-counter (OTC) without requiring a prescription for coverage,” the senators wrote today in their letter to Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, Department of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and the Department of Labor Acting Secretary Julie Su. “Over 19 million women live in counties with limited access to health care providers that offer comprehensive contraceptive services, and about one-third of women who have received prescription contraceptives have reported barriers to access. Expanding access to affordable coverage for eligible, uninsured populations would improve the quality of contraceptive care that patients receive.” “The availability of safe and effective OTC birth control products has enormous potential to help people overcome significant barriers to consistent contraceptive use, including the many logistical and financial challenges to obtaining a prescription. The FDA’s approval of Opill is a milestone; however, for an OTC birth control pill to meet its potential and be truly accessible, federal departments must ensure that it is covered without cost-sharing and without the need for a prescription as a condition of coverage,” the senators continued. “To expand access to affordable contraception, we urge the tri-departments to issue new guidance that reflects current HRSA guidelines and clarifies that federally and state-regulated private health plans must cover OTC contraceptive products without cost-sharing, including when purchased without a prescription… Given the increased need for access to contraception in the wake of the Dobbs decision, this issue is incredibly timely and important,” the senators wrote. In addition to Senator Van Hollen, the letter led by Senators Murray, Sanders, Wyden, and Baldwin, was also signed by U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.). A copy of the senators’ letter can be found HERE and text is below. Dear Secretary Becerra, Secretary Yellen, and Acting Secretary Su: We urge you to improve health insurance coverage, both public and private, of the full range of FDA-approved, granted, or cleared contraceptive products—including birth control that is available over-the-counter (OTC) without requiring a prescription for coverage. Over 19 million women live in counties with limited access to health care providers that offer comprehensive contraceptive services, and about one-third of women who have received prescription contraceptives have reported barriers to access. Expanding access to affordable coverage for eligible, uninsured populations would improve the quality of contraceptive care that patients receive. In recent months, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken several major steps toward this goal. First, on June 23, President Biden issued an executive order on “Strengthening Access to Affordable, High-Quality Contraception and Family Planning Services,” which directed each of your departments to take steps to improve access to contraception. Second, on July 13, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first-ever OTC birth control pill for sale in the United States, a groundbreaking advancement in contraceptive access. Most recently, on September 29, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the Internal Revenue Service, and the Employee Benefit Services Administration (EBSA) issued a Request of Information regarding the application of the preventive services requirements under section 2713 of the Public Health Service Act to OTC preventive services, including OTC contraceptive products. We applaud these efforts and ask that you undertake additional actions to ensure coverage for OTC contraceptive products—including the new OTC birth control pill once it becomes available in 2024—without cost-sharing and without the need for a prescription in all federally and state-regulated private health plans and federally and state-regulated and run coverage programs. The availability of safe and effective OTC birth control products has enormous potential to help people overcome significant barriers to consistent contraceptive use, including the many logistical and financial challenges to obtaining a prescription. The FDA’s approval of Opill is a milestone; however, for an OTC birth control pill to meet its potential and be truly accessible, federal departments must ensure that it is covered without cost-sharing and without the need for a prescription as a condition of coverage. Even prior to the FDA’s approval of Opill, several states have expanded access to OTC contraceptives and other lifesaving ACA preventive services to ensure that patients continue to receive quality care. Additional training and billing guidance for pharmacists and other health care providers would support state efforts to expand access to covered ACA preventive services like OTC contraceptives. Currently, existing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) guidance on the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) contraceptive coverage requirement from the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Treasury (“tri-departments”) allows federally and state-regulated private health plans to require a prescription for OTC contraceptives as a condition of coverage without cost sharing. This significantly reduces the advantages to consumers of an OTC product. To expand access to affordable contraception, we urge the tri-departments to issue new guidance that reflects current HRSA guidelines and clarifies that federally and state-regulated private health plans must cover OTC contraceptive products without cost-sharing, including when purchased without a prescription. We request that you do this as soon as possible and encourage the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program to adopt parallel changes for the next plan year. In addition to new guidance, your departments may need to take one or more discrete steps as soon as possible to: Cover the new OTC birth control pill and other OTC contraceptives by adding it to an existing coverage requirement and/or formulary; Eliminate any otherwise-required cost-sharing and prior authorization for OTC contraceptives; Eliminate any prescription requirement for OTC contraceptive coverage; Work with providers, pharmacy chains, health plans, and other stakeholders to make coverage for OTC contraceptives function as smoothly as possible at pharmacies and via mail order; Provide notice to beneficiaries, providers, and other stakeholders about any changes to coverage, as well as information about how to navigate and facilitate coverage of OTC contraceptives without a prescription; Provide guidance to encourage state Medicaid programs to cover OTC contraceptives without a prescription for Medicaid beneficiaries; and Provide guidance to pharmacies, health care providers, and insurers to improve claims processing and reimbursement for OTC contraceptives. These steps would be in line with the goals and directives of the June 2023 executive order, including its directive to “promote increased access to affordable over-the-counter contraception, including emergency contraception.” We appreciate your ongoing commitment to these goals for improving coverage of and access to the full range of contraceptives, including OTC contraception, and look forward to continuing to work together to achieve them. Given the increased need for access to contraception in the wake of the Dobbs decision, this issue is incredibly timely and important. Thank you in advance for considering this request. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-retirement-announcement-congressman-john,Congressman Ivey's Statement on the Retirement Announcement of Congressman John Sarbanes,2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MD,Glenn Ivey,I000058,ivey.house.gov,ivey,https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Congressman Glenn Ivey issued the following statement after Congressman John Sarbanes announced he would not seek another term in the House of Representatives: For nine terms, Congressman John Sarbanes has been a champion for the people of Maryland and one of the fiercest fighters for fair and free elections. As a US Representative, John has been the point man on democratic reforms and voting rights legislation, including the Freedom to Vote Act and the For the People Act. Like his father before him, Congressman Sarbanes has always been committed to calling out government corruption and waste. He has strengthened access to the ballot box for everyday people. His impact will last long after he leaves the House of Representatives. Through his work on the Energy and Commerce Committee, he has been at the vanguard of protecting our national eco-treasure, the Chesapeake Bay. In this committee he has worked to lower drug prices for our seniors and so much more.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-ossoff-senators-in-urging-access-for-humanitarian-aid-to-gaza,"Van Hollen Joins Ossoff, Senators in Urging Access for Humanitarian Aid to Gaza",2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senator Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) and their colleagues in warning a humanitarian collapse in Gaza would threaten regional stability and jointly issued the following statement: “We urge the swift implementation of sustained access for humanitarian aid, including water and medical supplies, to save civilian lives in Gaza,” the group wrote. In addition to Senator Van Hollen, Senator Ossoff is joined by Senators Jack Reed (D-R.I.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Angus King (I-Maine), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), and Gary Peters (D-Mich.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-murphy-schatz-welch-merkley-lead-20-senate-colleagues-calling-for-fuel-deliveries-to-hospitals-and-water-treatment-centers-in-gaza,"Van Hollen, Murphy, Schatz, Welch, Merkley Lead 20 Senate Colleagues Calling for Fuel Deliveries to Hospitals and Water Treatment Centers in Gaza",2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) led 20 of their Senate colleagues in releasing the following statement: “We condemn Hamas’ horrific terrorist attacks against Israel, for which Israel must hold Hamas accountable. In the course of that endeavor, every effort must be made to protect innocent civilians. Right now, hospitals in Gaza are hours away from running out of fuel that powers ventilators, incubators for babies, and other lifesaving equipment, and diseases are rapidly spreading without power to treat and pump clean drinking water. To prevent a potential health crisis and help save countless lives, we believe it is possible to transport fuel directly to these hospitals, desalination plants, and water pumping stations with full transparency to prevent diversion to Hamas. There are extensive oversight mechanisms in place that will track the fuel deliveries directly to the intended sites where they can be used immediately to prevent the deaths of innocent civilians, including babies and children. We encourage the Biden administration to work with our Israeli, Egyptian, and UN partners to enable these lifesaving deliveries.” Senators Van Hollen, Murphy, Schatz, Welch, Merkley are joined by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Cory Booker (D-N.J), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Angus King (I-Maine), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-warren-senators-call-for-humanitarian-pauses-and-hostage-releases-in-israel-hamas-war-echoing-united-states-resolution-at-united-nations,"Van Hollen, Warren, Senators Call for Humanitarian Pauses and Hostage Releases in Israel-Hamas War, Echoing United States Resolution at United Nations",2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following statement on the Israel-Hamas War: “Israel has a right to defend its citizens after Hamas’s terrorist attacks, which have driven the region into turmoil and cost thousands of lives. The war in Gaza has become a humanitarian crisis and has claimed the lives of innocent Palestinians. As the United States put forward at the United Nations, we are calling for humanitarian pauses to allow full, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian assistance for civilians and the immediate, unconditional release of all remaining hostages.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases/maryland-delegation-announces-more-74-million-energy-assistance-low-income,Maryland Delegation Announces More Than $74 Million in Energy Assistance for Low-Income Families,2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MD,Glenn Ivey,I000058,ivey.house.gov,ivey,https://ivey.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) today announced $74,410,147 in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services funding for Maryland’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The federal dollars, made possible in part by the lawmakers’ efforts to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, will help reduce costs associated with home energy bills, energy crises, weatherization and energy-related repairs for low-income families to cool and heat their homes. “Access to heat is a health and safety issue. With colder months approaching, these federal funds arrive at a critical time and will help ensure that Maryland families can stay safe and warm this winter,” said the lawmakers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://raskin.house.gov/2023/10/reps-raskin-jacobs-wild-release-joint-statement-urging-release-of-hostages-calling-for-increased-humanitarian-aid-to-civilians-in-gaza-and-advocating-pursuit-of-long-term-peace-in-the-region/42825328-d415-499f-9375-c5fcb652841f,"Reps. Raskin, Jacobs, Wild Release Joint Statement Urging Release of Hostages, Calling for Increased Humanitarian Aid to Civilians in Gaza and Advocating Pursuit of Long-Term Peace in the Region",2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MD,Jamie Raskin,R000606,raskin.house.gov,raskin,https://raskin.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Sara Jacobs (CA-51) and Susan Wild (PA-07) released the following statement urging for the release of hostages, calling for increased humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza and advocating for the pursuit of long-term peace in the region. “As Jewish Members of Congress who have family and loved ones in Israel, we are sickened by Hamas’ brutal and inexcusable attack on innocent Israeli civilians on October 7th. Our hearts remain with those killed, injured, and taken hostage—and with all their loved ones—and we urge Hamas to release all the hostages immediately so they can return safely and securely to their homes. Israel has the undeniable right under international law to defend itself, and we will continue to work toward our shared goal of long-term safety and security of the Israeli and Palestinian people. “We are also deeply concerned for Palestinian civilians caught in the middle of this conflict, and heartbroken over the growing and deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. While we are grateful for the Biden Administration’s successful efforts to deliver humanitarian aid through the Rafah crossing over the weekend, it is clear this aid alone is insufficient. The two million civilians in Gaza cannot survive without access to water, food, medicine, and fuel—and resources cannot get to those who need it without a temporary cessation of hostilities for humanitarian workers to do their jobs safely. That’s why we echo Secretary Blinken’s call for a temporary cessation of hostilities to establish safe passage for civilians and allow humanitarian aid to resume. We are committed to doing everything we can to support the Biden Administration in its efforts to protect civilian life, end Hamas terror, and bring about not only an appropriate and rapid end to hostilities but enduring peace and security to both Israelis and Palestinians.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-approves-van-hollen-cardin-amendment-to-fund-invasive-catfish-control-measures,"Senate Approves Van Hollen, Cardin Amendment to Fund Invasive Catfish Control Measures",2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MD,Chris Van Hollen,V000128,www.vanhollen.senate.gov,vanhollen,https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) praised the unanimous approval by the Senate this week of their amendment to provide targeted resources to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal Plant and Health Inspection Service (APHIS), to help the State of Maryland control the population of invasive blue catfish in the Chesapeake Bay. The measure was adopted as an amendment to a package of spending bills for Fiscal Year 2024 that includes Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies; Agriculture and the Food & Drug Administration; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies. “Invasive catfish have spread in the Chesapeake Bay, inhabiting nearly all major tributaries. They are preying on local species, including the iconic blue crab,” the senators said. “Our amendment will help better control the spread of invasive blue catfish and limit their harmful impacts by providing new resources and facilitating critical partnerships between the federal government and Maryland state agencies. We will continue to seek out federal resources to support this effort.” The amendment provides funding to support state natural resource agency partners with science as well as design and implement control methods for invasive catfish in the Chesapeake Bay. Example activities include population monitoring to understand seasonal movement and diet patterns and purchasing appropriate electrofishing equipment. Increased monitoring in tributaries that are vulnerable to colonization by invasive blue catfish will allow the state to develop comprehensive mitigation plans in the Chesapeake Bay region. Van Hollen is a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Cardin is a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z