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://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-hosts-end-year-telephone-town-hall-more-5200-west-michiganders,"Rep. Scholten Hosts End of Year Telephone Town Hall with More Than 5,200 West Michiganders",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last night, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) hosted a telephone town hall following the release of her inaugural end of year report. During the town hall, more than 5,200 West Michiganders tuned in to hear Rep. Scholten and her team’s legislative and casework achievements and receive an update on the pending immigration deal in the Senate and the ongoing Israel/Hamas war.

“I couldn’t be more honored that West Michiganders trusted me to bring their voices to Congress. I’m so proud of everything my team and I have accomplished this year – from returning more than $7 million to West Michigan families from federal agencies to securing more than $12.3 million in investments to our community to introducing eight bipartisan bills – and we’re just getting started,” said Rep. Scholten. “I want to thank everyone who tuned in to hear our updates and ask incredibly important questions. I look forward to hosting many more town halls over the phone and in person in the coming year.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/michigan-delegation-members-urge-air-force-to-select-selfridge-air-national-guard-base-for-kc-46-tankers,Michigan Delegation Members Urge Air Force to Select Selfridge Air National Guard Base for KC-46 Tankers,2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI), and U.S. Representatives John James (R-MI-10), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI-07), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Lisa McClain (R-MI-09), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), John Moolenaar (R-MI-02), Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), Jack Bergman (R-MI-01), Dan Kildee (D-MI-08), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), Bill Huizenga (R-MI-4), and Tim Walberg (R-MI-05) are urging U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall to select Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County to host a new squadron of KC-46A refueling tankers. The letter to Secretary Kendall highlights Selfridge’s unique capability to host these tankers while reiterating the Michigan congressional delegation’s commitment to ensuring Selfridge is also selected to host a new, long-term fighter jet mission. This comes after the Air Force identified Selfridge as “an indispensable source of tanker capacity for our national security” in a letter to Peters and Stabenow in 2021.

“The Michigan Congressional Delegation expresses our strong belief that Selfridge is the ideal location for a squadron of KC-46A refueling tankers and a recapitalization of the A-10 squadron into an advanced fighter,” the letter stated. “With this in mind, we urge the Air Force to base a squadron of twelve KC-46s at Selfridge in addition to a future replacement fighter mission due to its strong operational track record, exceptional personnel, and strategic location.”

“We know Selfridge’s advantages, its exceptional operational track record, and the 127th Wing’s outstanding personnel make Selfridge an ideal candidate for a squadron of KC-46s and a future fighter mission,” the letter continued. “Our delegation and state are totally dedicated to fighting for Selfridge with Governor Whitmer’s proposed $100 million investment in base and runway improvements a tangible example of this commitment. We look forward to working closely with you and your office to ensure Michigan continues to be a value add to the Total Force.”

The 127th Wing at Selfridge currently operates the KC-135 Stratotanker in support of the global mobility mission, offering unparalleled synergy of training, efficiency, and mobility opportunities and operations. Placement of the KC-46 tankers, a next-generation air refueler that will be crucial to the future of U.S. defense strategy and operations, will help cement Selfridge’s position as a critical component to our national security.

This comes after Peters, Stabenow, and James recently urged leaders of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to include funding in the 2024 defense appropriation bills for additional fighter aircraft such as the F-15EX at Selfridge. In their letter, the Senators also advocated for continued funding for Exercise Northern Strike and the modernization of Army National Guard facilities to ensure equitable access for female servicemembers. Peters, Stabenow, and James additionally previously led a bipartisan, bicameral effort with the Michigan congressional delegation calling for a new fighter mission at Selfridge and introduced companion resolutions to highlight the contributions of Selfridge. Peters and Stabenow have also secured significant commitments from the Department of Defense, including a pledge that Selfridge will continue to play a “critical and ongoing role for our national security.”

Earlier this year, the lawmakers and other leaders in Michigan’s congressional delegation participated in the groundbreaking for a new $28 million aircraft hangar made by possible by federal funding that Senator Peters secured through his work on the Senate Armed Services Committee. The new 41,900 square-foot facility will transform two hangars into a new hangar equipped for fighter maintenance and help to better position the base to be selected for a new, long-term fighter mission.

Selfridge supports approximately 5,000 military and civilian jobs and generates an estimated $850 million in economic impact statewide.

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

Dear Secretary Kendall,

We write to follow up on the Air Force’s letter from July 16, 2021 identifying Selfridge Air National Guard Base as an indispensable source of Air Force refueling capacity and as the location for a future tanker aircraft. The Michigan Congressional Delegation expresses our strong belief that Selfridge is the ideal location for a squadron of KC-46A refueling tankers and a recapitalization of the A-10 squadron into an advanced fighter. With this in mind, we urge the Air Force to base a squadron of twelve KC-46s at Selfridge in addition to a future replacement fighter mission due to its strong operational track record, exceptional personnel, and strategic location.

At the heart Selfridge is the 127th Wing of the Michigan Air National Guard, comprised of the 171st Air Refueling Squadron and the 107th Fighter Squadron. The 171st Air Refueling Squadron has expertly operated eight KC-135T Stratotankers for the past 15 years including worldwide deployments to support operations in the Indo-Pacific and Middle East. The 107th Fighter Squadron currently operates A-10 fighters and is home to many of the Air Force’s most experienced pilots including five Air Force Weapons School graduates. The 171st and 107th Squadron’s valuable experiences provide a value add for Air Mobility and Air Combat Commands at a fraction of the cost of active-duty forces. Losing the 107th Squadron’s talented pilots and maintainers, geographic advantages, and fighter experience is unacceptable for the Michigan delegation and would be a loss to the Total Force.

With this in mind, we remain committed to fighting for a future replacement fighter mission at Selfridge. Unfortunately, Michigan has already lost two F-16 squadrons in 1992 and in 2009. After losing its F-16s, in 2009 Selfridge transitioned to A-10s which were relocated from Battle Creek. The A-10s scheduled retirement in Fiscal Year 2027 means it will lose its last fighter mission. We urge the Air Force to continue working with the Michigan Congressional Delegation to find a future fighter mission to ensure Selfridge can build upon its 100 years of fighter experience and more than 18 successful combat deployments.

In your recent visit, you witnessed firsthand this valuable skillset and the 127th Wing’s talented and experienced pilots, crews, and maintainers. The base’s proximity to a major airline hub at Detroit Metro/Wayne County Airport has allowed the 127th Wing to recruit and retain the highest quality pilots and maintenance personnel for their tanker and fighter missions. This location provides unique opportunities for citizen airmen and a strong work-life balance leading to a 95% retention rate and continued end-strength gains.

Selfridge has unmatched access to airspace and training ranges and is home to robust and operationally relevant readiness exercises. The Michigan National Guard annually hosts Operation Northern Strike, the largest joint all-domain, live-fire, reserve component readiness exercise in the continental United States. The Michigan Guard also hosts the highly successful “Winter Strike” exercise to test units' operational readiness in arctic conditions. Finally, Michigan is home to National All-Domain Warfighting Center, the largest contiguous joint service range/airspace complex east of the Mississippi River, providing tremendous training and operational readiness opportunities.

We are encouraged by the Air Force’s letter on July 16, 2021, outlining the Air Force’s intent to replace Selfridge’s current KC135 tankers with KC-46 tankers. We understand that as part of the KC-46 beddown, the Air Force must undergo a rigorous Strategic Basing Process. As the Air Force makes basing decisions including Selfridge, we respectfully request a robust and detailed timeline of all KC-46 basing decisions including current planned beddowns, known future KC-46 basing actions, and the number of KC-46s on contract without basing decisions.

In addition to providing these timelines, we respectfully request responses to the following questions:

What are the decision timelines associated with KC-46 basing plans?

What is the expected basing decision timeline for the KC-46s at Selfridge?

How is the Air Force preparing for this potential KC-46 transition for Selfridge?

What Air Force budgetary actions must be made to facilitate this KC-46 transition for Selfridge?

What personnel and economic impacts will the replacement KC-46s have on the 171st Squadron and on Selfridge?

The Air Force is procuring F-35As and F-15EXs to distribute across the Total Force. Would you please state which obstacles remain that prevent Selfridge from being included in the Air Force recapitalization plan for the A-10 with advice for how these shortcomings may be remedied?

We know Selfridge’s advantages, its exceptional operational track record, and the 127th Wing’s outstanding personnel make Selfridge an ideal candidate for a squadron of KC-46s and a future fighter mission. Our delegation and state are totally dedicated to fighting for Selfridge with Governor Whitmer’s proposed $100 million investment in base and runway improvements a tangible example of this commitment. We look forward to working closely with you and your office to ensure Michigan continues to be a value add to the Total Force.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-senator-peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-combat-human-rights-abuses,Senate Unanimously Passes Senator Peters’ Bipartisan Legislation to Help Combat Human Rights Abuses,2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ (MI) bipartisan legislation to help American businesses combat human rights abuses.

Senator Peters’ Combating Human Rights Abuses Act – which he reintroduced with U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) – would direct the U.S. Department of Commerce to help educate American exporters that are, or are considering, exporting goods in partnership with businesses in the People’s Republic of China where forced labor and significant human rights abuses have occurred. The bill would also direct the Commerce Department to offer guidance to exporters to help them avoid doing business with Chinese entities that may be implicated in forced labor or human rights violations.

“Human rights abuses like those committed in China must be condemned,” said Senator Peters. “I’m proud the Senate has unanimously passed this bipartisan legislation to provide American businesses with the information and transparency they need to avoid business dealings with entities in China that may be involved in forced labor or other atrocities.”

The legislation has earned the support of the Uyghur Human Rights Project and the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO).

“There is no room for half-measures to stop corporate complicity in the atrocity crimes against Uyghurs,” said Omer Kanat, Executive Director of the Uyghur Human Rights Project. “UHRP strongly endorses this Congressional action. It’s past time to end profits tied to entities that are using Uyghur forced labor, and tech companies that provide the 24-7 surveillance state enforcing the ongoing genocide of the Uyghur people.”

The government of the People’s Republic of China has perpetrated egregious human rights abuses—including in Tibet and in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region—against Uyghurs and other ethnic and religious minority groups. The Chinese government’s actions have encompassed mass detention in internment camps, the use of forced labor, cultural cleansing, and other atrocities. This has led the U.S. State Department to determine that the People’s Republic of China, “under the direction and control” of the Chinese Communist Party, “has committed genocide against predominantly Muslim Uyghurs and other ethnic and religious minority groups in Xinjiang” as well as use “coercive policies” to seek to “eliminate Tibet’s distinct linguistic, cultural, and religious traditions among younger generations of Tibetans.”

The U.S. Department of Commerce provides valuable assistance to help U.S. businesses and exporters increase sales and tap into new markets, such as through export counseling provided by the U.S. Commercial Service. Peters’ bipartisan bill would build on existing human rights training for Commerce Department staff by ensuring its workforce is specifically informed about emerging trends and issues with respect to human rights abuses in China such as in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-delivers-20m-grants-casework-west-michigan-first-year,"Rep. Scholten Delivers $20M in Grants, Casework for West Michigan in First Year",2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Find the End of Year Report here.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) celebrated the end of her first year in Congress by releasing her inaugural end of year report and announcing over $20M in grants and federal dollars returning to the community. The report details Rep. Scholten and her team’s legislative and casework accomplishments, as well as her efforts to advocate for West Michigan in Washington, D.C.

“Despite the chaos of Congress, I’ve stayed committed to my promise to West Michiganders – to provide steady, pragmatic leadership and work across the aisle to get things done for our community,” said Rep. Scholten. “That’s exactly what I’ve done over this last year – from introducing several bipartisan bills to hosting town halls in every county to returning millions of dollars to West Michigan families from federal agencies – and I’m just getting started. I’m so excited to release this inaugural report to share our incredible work with West Michiganders.”

TOP HIGHLIGHTS:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-peters-and-lankford-bipartisan-bill-to-save-taxpayer-dollars-by-reusing-excess-federal-property,Senate Passes Peters and Lankford Bipartisan Bill to Save Taxpayer Dollars by Reusing Excess Federal Property,2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate has passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and James Lankford (R-OK) to hold agencies more accountable to the public on how they reuse excess personal property. Federally-owned personal property includes physical items such as office supplies, furniture, automobiles, and heavy machinery. The federal government is the largest purchaser of goods and services in the world, and this bill would ensure agencies are looking to excess property– available at no cost apart from any necessary transportation – before buying new products to save taxpayer dollars.

“Federal agencies have a responsibility to taxpayers use dollars responsibly. When it comes to purchasing goods like office supplies, equipment, and vehicles, agencies should consider reusing excess goods rather than buying them new,” said Senator Peters. “My bipartisan legislation would hold the federal government more accountable by ensuring agencies consider goods that have already been purchased when looking for new personal property.”

“This is not that hard. Use the stuff you already have before you buy more stuff. When federal agencies just buy more, before they use what we already have, it shows a lack of commitment to saving taxpayer dollars. The federal government is already the largest single buyer of goods and services in the world, so we need to prioritize good stewardship and effective use of property the government has already purchased,” said Senator Lankford. “From paper clips to automobiles, Oklahoma families and businesses make decisions every day about how to use what they have before spending more money. We should always look for ways for the federal government to save more money and waste less time.”

The Reuse Excess Property Act would update existing requirements for agencies to report their excess personal property to the General Services Administration (GSA) by making those reports available to the public as well. This would help agency officials and taxpayers better understand the extent to which agencies are working to cut wasteful spending through the use of excess property. The bill would also require agencies to publicly report on their guidance on the use of excess personal property and designate an employee to be responsible for searching through available excess personal property for items that meet agency needs.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-applauds-signing-bills-reduce-muskegon-heights-public-school-debt,"Rep. Scholten Applauds Signing of Bills to Reduce Muskegon Heights Public School Debt, Expand Access to Clean Drinking Water",2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"MUSKEGON, MI – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) joined Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Michigan statehouse and community leaders to celebrate the signing of two state-level bills, House Bill 4292 and Senate Bill 174, to address critical clean drinking water needs in schools and child care centers, reduce public school debt, and invest in talent development. The legislation tackles some of Muskegon’s top needs that Congresswoman Scholten and others encouraged the governor and state legislature to address.

Specifically, House Bill 4292 includes:

$31.3 million to Muskegon Heights School District to pay off the school system’s debt;

$30 million to Grand Valley State University for essential building renovations and additions;

$16.8 million to Grand Rapids Community College for library renovations;

$15 million for PFAS remediation near Muskegon Lake;

$50 million for drinking water filtration in schools and child care centers in areas of need;

Funding for Medical Debt Relief Pilot Program; substance use treatment center; mental and behavioral health access improvements.

Senate Bill 174 includes:

$35 million for school-based health centers;

$10 million for upgraded student health data systems;

Revisions to outdated standards and requirements including district funding matches for state-sponsored programs.

“As a mom, I know how important it is that Michigan kids have access to the high-quality education and clean drinking water they deserve, and I couldn't be more excited to see these bills signed into law right here in West Michigan,” said Rep. Scholten. “These will have an incredible impact in Muskegon County and across our region. I am proud to have been part of talks in support of this legislation with the Governor and am happy to see everyone’s hard work come to fruition to create a brighter future for our kids.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-senators-peters-and-stabenows-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-settle-longstanding-land-claims-of-the-keweenaw-bay-indian-community-clear-title-of-current-landowners,"Senate Unanimously Passes Senators Peters and Stabenow’s Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Settle Longstanding Land Claims of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, Clear Title of Current Landowners",2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed bipartisan, bicameral legislation led by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) to settle the longstanding land claims of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) and clear the title of current landowners in the community. The KBIC was guaranteed occupancy over a large area of land established as the L’Anse Reservation through Treaties signed in 1842 and 1854. Despite those Treaties, thousands of acres of the reservation were taken by the federal government without compensation and awarded to the State of Michigan. Peters and Stabenow introduced the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Land Claim Settlement Act of 2023 in coordination with the KBIC and state and local governments to address this longstanding issue. Representative Bergman (R-MI-01) has introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

“This bipartisan bill rightly settles the claims brought by the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community and provides legal clearance for local residents who currently own the property at issue,” said Senator Peters. “It’s time to right this wrong.”

“Passage of this legislation resolving longstanding land claims is an important step forward. This bill is a long overdue solution,” said Senator Stabenow.

“The Tribal Council and the whole Keweenaw Bay Indian Community are beyond overjoyed by the Senate’ unanimous passage yesterday of S. 195, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Land Claims Act. We have sought relief and compensation for generations for the unlawful taking of our lands. Thanks to Senator Peters and Senator Stabenow we finally feel heard,” said Keweenaw Bay Indian Community President Doreen Blaker.

The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community’s land claims involve the dispossession of between approximately 1,333 and 2,720 acres of land transferred by the United States government to the State of Michigan as compensation for the construction of the Sault Ste. Marie Canal, as well as approximately 2,743 acres of swamplands. The KBIC asserts that as a result of the 1842 and 1854 Treaties, these lands were not available for transfer and therefore transferred illegally. The KBIC contends that the inappropriate transfer of these lands has created substantial economic and other harm, through the loss of valuable land in prime locations along Lake Superior that could have been used for a variety of revenue-generating activities over the past 150 years. Meanwhile, non-Indian individuals, entities, and local governments have since acquired the land at issue – in good faith – and now seek to ensure they possess clear title to the land. The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Land Claim Settlement Act of 2023 rights this wrong by authorizing federal funds through the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) that may be used by the KBIC for governmental services, economic development, natural resource protection, and land acquisition.

The legislation is supported by a variety of community partners and government leaders, including KBIC President Doreen Blaker, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, the Baraga County Board of Commissioners and other key stakeholders throughout Michigan.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/third-stevens-bill-three-weeks-clears-house,Third Stevens Bill In Three Weeks Clears House,2023-12-17,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day Act introduced by Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI), Co-Chair of the Congressional Task Force on American Hostages and Americans Wrongfully Detained Abroad, passed the House as part of the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act. This is the third piece of legislation introduced by Rep. Stevens to pass the House in the same number of weeks. The bill which calls for the proclamation of March 9th as an annual observance of Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day and the adoption of a purpose-designed flag to be flown in hostages honor, was co-sponsored by Rep. French Hill (R-AR), Co-Chair of the Congressional Task Force. The bill was also adopted by the Senate and is expected to be signed into law by President Joe Biden.

“With the uptick in hostage taking as a tactic by bad actors and lawless states, we must continue to bring awareness to the plight of Americans who are captive abroad,” said Rep. Stevens (D-MI). “This legislation provides a means to ensure that every American wrongfully detained and their families know that Congress stands with them, and every American will stand with them in observance of national Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day each March 9th. We won’t stop our support until every single hostage is home with their family.”

“As more Americans are increasingly being wrongfully detained around the world, we must bring awareness to these Americans who are being held against their will,” said Rep. French Hill (R-AR). “Our bill demonstrates that Congress stands with wrongful detainees and their families, and that all Americans will stand in observance of National Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day every year on March 9. We will continue to work diligently together until every wrongfully detained American is home safe and reunited with their families.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-reps-kildee-scholten-new-reports-illegal-child-labor,"Statement by Reps. Kildee, Scholten on New Reports of Illegal Child Labor",2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON— Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-08) and Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03), co-chairs of the Child Labor Prevention Task Force, today issued the following statement after new reporting in the New York Times detailed systemic exploitation of children in the U.S. roofing industry:

“The stories in this report are heartbreaking and unacceptable. We cannot continue to turn a blind eye to children suffering terrible injuries, or being killed, in dangerous jobs.

“The current enforcement of our child labor laws, and penalties for breaking those laws, are failing to deter bad actors. Congress must do more to combat illegal child labor and pass new legislation to crack down on violations and hold employers accountable.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-shri-thanedar-celebrates-the-inclusion-of-equitable-contracting-and-small-business-advancement-act-in-fy24-ndaa,"Rep. Shri Thanedar Celebrates the Inclusion of ""Equitable Contracting and Small Business Advancement Act"" in FY24 NDAA",2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MI,Shri Thanedar,T000488,thanedar.house.gov,thanedar,https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - December 15, 2023 - Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) proudly announces the successful inclusion of his bill, the ""Equitable Contracting and Small Business Advancement Act,"" as an amendment in the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This landmark achievement underscores a significant stride towards fostering equity in defense contracting, particularly for small and disadvantaged businesses.

""The inclusion of the 'Equitable Contracting and Small Business Advancement Act' in this year's NDAA is a victory for small businesses,"" said Congressman Thanedar. ""It will help ensure that small businesses,the foundation of our communities, are given fair opportunities to participate in defense contracts, promoting a more inclusive and diverse industrial base.""

Key Highlights of the Amendment:

Requires Mandatory Briefings: The Department of Defense (DoD) will provide Congress with annual briefings on the implementation of category management practices and their impact on small business contracting opportunities.

Focus on Small Business Empowerment: Emphasis on enhancing contracting opportunities for small and disadvantaged businesses in the defense sector.

Transparency and Accountability: Increased oversight and reporting on the success and challenges faced by small businesses in defense contracts.

Promotion of Diversity and Inclusion: Ensuring the DoD's commitment to including a diverse range of small businesses in contracts, thereby fostering economic equality.

""This is more than just a policy change; it's a meaningful step towards creating a more equitable and just economy,"" added Congressman Thanedar. ""Our small businesses deserve every opportunity to succeed, and this amendment in the NDAA is a move in the right direction.""

The FY24 NDAA, with the inclusion of this amendment, demonstrates a strong effort to support the nation's defense while championing the cause of small businesses and economic diversity. Congressman Thanedar's leadership and dedication to this cause have been pivotal in this significant legislative achievement.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-senator-peters-highlights-new-safety-equipment-to-prevent-flight-cancellations-at-cherry-capital-airport,PHOTOS: Senator Peters Highlights New Safety Equipment to Prevent Flight Cancellations at Cherry Capital Airport,2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"TRAVERSE CITY, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) – along with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regional Administrator Erik Amend, Cherry Capital Airport Director Kevin Klein and Cherry Capital Airport Authority Board Chair Steve Plamondon – participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Instrument Landing System (ILS) at Cherry Capital Airport. The new ILS will help provide pilots with precise navigation guidance when approaching the runway in bad weather or low visibility, preventing hundreds of flight cancellations each year. Peters was instrumental in spurring the FAA to expedite approval of the ILS for Cherry Capital Airport to ensure the airport can continue to provide safe, reliable air service while supporting local tourism and economic development.

“Bad weather and flight cancellations cause serious disruptions to travelers, especially at this time of year,” said Senator Peters. “I’m glad I was able to help expedite the approval of this new safety equipment to ensure that Cherry Capital Airport is as safe and efficient as possible for the nearly 700,000 passengers each year who use the airport.”

“Cherry Capital Airport would like to thank Senator Peters and his outstanding staff for all the assistance with the Instrument Landing System for Runway 10,” said Director Klein. “With Senator Peters’ help we were able to navigate the many layers of policy and regulations to achieve this project for the safety and reliability of air service to Northern Michigan.”

In addition to assisting on the ILS project, Peters fought for additional support for Cherry Capital Airport, as well other provisions to support air service across the state. Peters recently helped secure $5.2 million in federal funding through the bipartisan infrastructure law for the airport to replace five boarding bridges, which will improve its aircraft capabilities and competitiveness. Last year, Peters’ Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act was signed into law, which provides funding to commercial airports to purchase devices needed to test firefighting equipment without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals.

Prior to the ribbon cutting event, Peters toured the Legacy Aviation Learning Center, which will begin providing FAA certified aircraft maintenance technician training to students in 11th and 12th grade starting in January 2024. In partnership with the Northwest Education Services Career Tech Program, Learning Center programs will be made available to students from 20 high schools across the region. It is one of three aircraft maintenance programs in Michigan and the only aircraft maintenance technician program north of Grand Rapids. The program is partially supported by $500,000 in federal funding awarded to Grand Traverse County through the American Rescue Plan, which Peters helped enact.

To download photos from the visit, click here. Images are courtesy of Senator Peters’ office.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-votes-raise-pay-servicemembers,Rep. Scholten Votes to Raise Pay for Servicemembers,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) voted in favor of the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which will raise pay for servicemembers by 5.2% and fund America’s national security priorities.

Specifically, the FY2024 NDAA:

Supports the 5.2% pay raise proposed in the President’s budget request;

Expands eligibility for the Basic Needs Allowance (program that provides funds for food, housing, etc. for lowest paid;

Makes significant investments in military family housing, child development centers, and replacing failing unaccompanied housing (barracks);

Improves family leave eligibility for federal employees;

Invests a record $150 million for HBCUs;

Provides $650 million worth of investments in energy resilience and energy conservation projects.

“I’m thrilled that the House came together in a bipartisan way to fund our national security priorities and give our troops a much deserved 5.2% pay raise, which is the least we can do for these heroes who work day in and day out to protect our country. Our bipartisan NDAA will also support military families by expanding access to childcare and safe base housing, which is a top priority of mine,” said Rep. Scholten.“I look forward to seeing this legislation signed into law as we continue our work to serve our nation’s military members and their families and defend our nation and its values at home and abroad.”

Full bill text of the FY24 NDAA can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/stevens-introduces-bill-keep-forever-chemicals-out-our-air,Stevens Introduces Bill to Keep Forever Chemicals Out of Our Air,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI) introduced the Prevent Release of Toxic Emissions, Contamination and Transfer (PROTECT) Act, which would direct the EPA to issue a final rule to add PFAS chemicals to the list of hazardous air pollutants and thus trigger the process for the EPA to set emission reduction standards for these dangerous chemicals. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), and Rep. Bill Posey (R-FL) are original co-sponsors of the bill.

“Forever chemicals are harmful to people and the planet,” said Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI). “I’m proud to introduce the PROTECT Act to empower the EPA to implement emission reduction standards for forever chemicals. This is a vital step toward ensuring the air we breathe is clean and our environment is protected.”

“PFAS are pervasive, man-made chemicals that pose an urgent threat to public health and our environment,” said Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) And the number of contaminated sites is growing at an alarming rate throughout Michigan and across the country. I’m proud to be a partner on the bipartisan PROTECT Act—also included in the PFAS Action Act—which will finally address the threat of PFAS in the air we breathe by adding it to the list of hazardous chemicals under the Clean Air Act.”

""All Americans have a right to clean air, free from hazardous and harmful chemical emissions,"" saidRep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), co-chair of the Congressional PFAS Task Force. "" Per- and polyfluoroalkyl contamination remains a serious public health and environmental threat to our communities in Bucks and Montgomery counties and others across the nation. Our bipartisan legislation would require these ‘forever chemicals’ to be properly designated and regulated under the Clean Air Act, ensuring that the next generation is protected from the damaging health effects of PFAS.”

“Our communities can't wait,” said Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI). “The federal government needs to act quickly to protect our communities from PFAS forever chemicals. The PROTECT Act will spur EPA action to regulate PFAS as a hazard to our health and jumpstart cleanup efforts —with the polluters footing the bill.”

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that have been detected at airports, military bases, firehouses and fire training facilities, waste-water treatment plants, and other industrial sites. Exposure to PFAS chemicals has been linked to cancer and other illnesses. A report found that Michigan has the highest number of PFAS contamination sites in the nation. PFAS has been prevalent in the water supply, but it is also emitted into the air. The bill would help the EPA in its mission by adding PFAS chemicals to the list of hazardous air pollutants under Section 112(b) of the Clean Air Act.

Congresswoman Haley Stevens is a member of the bipartisan House PFAS Task Force.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-senator-peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-domestic-semiconductor-manufacturing,Senate Unanimously Passes Senator Peters’ Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Domestic Semiconductor Manufacturing,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ (MI) bipartisan legislation to strengthen federal efforts to expand domestic manufacturing of semiconductor chips. Peters’ Securing Semiconductor Supply Chains Act – which he reintroduced with U.S. Senators Rick Scott (R-FL), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Jon Tester (D-MT) – would direct the U.S. Department of Commerce’s SelectUSA program, in collaboration with other federal agencies and state economic development organizations, to develop strategies that would attract investment in U.S. semiconductor manufacturers and supply chains. Peters’ bill – which was approved by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee in May – would help address the ongoing global shortage of semiconductor technologies that has disrupted a range of industries in recent years including manufacturers and automakers in Michigan. Companion legislation led by Representatives Greg Pence (R-IN) and Anna Eshoo (D-CA) was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives in July.

“In order to remain a global economic powerhouse in the 21st century, we must continue to build on the investments we made in the CHIPS and Science Act to boost U.S. production of semiconductor chips, which we know will dictate the future of technology and innovation,” said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.“My bipartisan bill would do just that by strengthening our efforts to attract investment in American semiconductor manufacturers as well as their suppliers, reducing our dependence on foreign producers for these critical technologies and creating good-paying jobs here at home.”

“We are grateful to Senator Peters and his colleagues for serving as catalysts in a bipartisan commitment to bet on American workers. Michigan has worked tirelessly over the last two years to enhance our competitiveness in the semiconductor industry: We signed an MOU to establish a global semiconductor center of excellence (M-STAR); provided the largest investment in state history to local higher education institutions to promote semiconductor jobs and training; and secured capital investments by semiconductor companies or suppliers to expand,” said Quentin Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “We look forward to continued partnership with federal officials to deliver more employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for Michiganders in this vital sector.”

“Thank you to Senator Peters for his leadership in passing this legislation that will grow domestic semiconductor manufacturing and strengthen our supply chains,” said Governor Matt Blunt, President of the American Automotive Policy Council. “This legislation is critical to auto manufacturers, and promotes economic growth in the U.S. auto sector.”

The SelectUSA program was established by President Obama in 2011 to improve federal efforts that attract job-creating business investments in the United States, and that support U.S. firms. Peters put forward this bipartisan bill after the Biden Administration later issued a report emphasizing that the SelectUSA program could be further leveraged to strengthen private sector investments across the semiconductor manufacturing supply chain, in particular.

The Securing Semiconductor Supply Chains Act would direct the SelectUSA program to engage with state-level economic development organizations about how they are attracting foreign direct investment to onshore activities related to semiconductor manufacturing, and identify what resource gaps or other challenges they face in achieving that goal. SelectUSA would then be required to develop strategies to increase investments in semiconductor manufacturing.

Peters has worked to address the semiconductor shortage crisis that has stymied automotive innovation in recent years and has impacted consumers, workers, and industries across the country – including the Michigan auto industry. Peters secured multiple provisions in the CHIPS and Science Act that was signed into law to bolster U.S. semiconductor production, including a provision he championed with U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (MI) to create a $2 billion supplemental incentive fund to support the domestic production of mature semiconductor technologies and ensure that projects supporting critical manufacturing industries are given priority status, which would include the automotive sector. This is in addition to $50 billion already in the bill to incentivize the production of semiconductors of all kinds in the U.S. – for a total of $52 billion.

The CHIPS and Science Act also included Peters’ bipartisan Investing in Domestic Semiconductor Manufacturing Act, which will ensure federal incentives to boost domestic semiconductor manufacturing include U.S. suppliers that produce the materials and manufacturing equipment that enable semiconductor manufacturing – bolstering semiconductors supply chains and Michigan manufacturers. The CHIPS and Science Act also authorized increased funding for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program, which has been a priority for Peters. In the government funding bill signed into law last year, Peters secured an additional $188 million for MEPs like the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center – which provide technical assistance to small and medium-sized manufacturers on business operations, advanced technologies, workforce and skills development, cybersecurity and more. Earlier this year, Peters announced the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center will receive $400,000 in federal funding made possible by the CHIPS and Science Act to help manufacturers in Michigan improve the strength of their supply chains.

Peters previously convened a field hearing in Detroit to examine how Congress can help bolster U.S. innovation for electric and autonomous vehicles by increasing domestic production of semiconductor chips and other technologies, while also delivering economic, environmental, and safety benefits for the American people. Peters has additionally raised the issue of supply chain disruptions seen in recent years with numerous Biden Administration officials in conversations both before and after President Biden took office – including during a roundtable discussion with Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo in Michigan.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-cornyn-introduce-bill-to-protect-americans-from-weapons-of-mass-destruction,Peters & Cornyn Introduce Bill to Protect Americans from Weapons of Mass Destruction,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and John Cornyn (R-TX), introduced bipartisan legislation to prevent a critical national security office that protects Americans from threats posed by weapons of mass destruction from being forced to close its doors. The authorization for the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD) Office at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is set to expire early next year unless quick action is taken. Peters and Cornyn’s Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Extension Act of 2023 would ensure that the federal government can continue its work to defend against threats from weapons of mass destruction – which include chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons. The bill provides stability for the office by extending the authority to conduct its national security missions for two more years.

“Weapons of mass destruction, including chemical and radiological weapons, could have catastrophic effects if used in an attack on the United States. These threats are continuing to grow, and we must ensure that the Department of Homeland Security can continue its crucial work to address these serious risks uninterrupted,” said Senator Peters. “I will continue working along with Senator Cornyn to pass additional legislation to ensure the federal government can effectively address these complex and dangerous threats. But there is simply too much at risk if this office is forced to stop operations, and I urge my colleagues to quickly pass this short-term extension to protect our national security.”

“While new technology has improved our lives in countless ways, it has also opened the door for bad actors to harm our country,” said Senator Cornyn. “The Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office was created to prevent chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear materials from falling into the wrong hands, and this legislation would make sure it can continue protecting Americans from weapons of mass destruction.”

Chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons have the potential to cause everything from mass casualties and incapacitation, to agricultural destruction, and other serious disruptions to our economic and national security. In particular, biological agents, including anthrax and ricin, have been used in attacks on Americans. Recent security threats have raised concerns that nuclear and radioactive materials could be stolen and used in a domestic attack. Last month, in Houston, Texas, a Houston Police Department officer unearthed “potentially dangerous radioactive material abandoned in a […] scrapyard” thanks to a device he was provided by the CWMD Office. According to the Houston Chronicle, it was “the largest-ever local finding in a program designed to root out sources that could be used to make ‘dirty bombs.’”

Senators Peters and Cornyn have also introduced the bipartisan Offices of Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction and Health Security Act, which makes permanent the CWMD Office and the Office of Health Security within DHS. The bill, which advanced out of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee in June 2023, clarifies the roles and responsibilities of the CWMD Office’s responsibilities to address chemical and biological threats – including coordination with DHS components and state, local, Tribal, and territorial entities. The legislation also significantly expands congressional oversight of the CWMD Office, including by requiring the office to submit a report to Congress every four years on the Department’s strategy to counter weapons of mass destruction and other emerging threats. The bill also codifies responsibilities for the Office of Health Security, including oversight of all medical and workplace safety missions across DHS.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-national-defense-bill-with-senator-peters-provisions-and-michigan-priorities,Senate Passes National Defense Bill with Senator Peters’ Provisions and Michigan Priorities,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate has passed the government’s annual defense authorization bill, which includes key provisions and Michigan priorities secured by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI). Peters, who is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, successfully led and supported multiple provisions in the bill – including to invest in Michigan’s military facilities, combat aggression by adversaries like the Chinese and Russian governments, advance PFAS removal efforts, and give servicemembers a pay raise.

“Strong defense capabilities are key for our national security and the security of our allies, and this bipartisan legislation will help ensure the U.S. military remains the strongest in the world,” said Senator Peters, a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. “It authorizes key investments in Michigan’s military facilities that will contribute to our state’s continued role as a critical component of our national defense. Looking ahead, I will continue to do everything possible to secure the future of Selfridge Air National Guard Base and Michigan’s many other defense installations, and to continue to increase our state’s defense footprint.”

The annual National Defense Authorization Act sets the Department of Defense’s budget and policy priorities for the coming year. The Senate and the House of Representatives previously passed their own versions of the legislation. Leaders in both chambers then negotiated and came to an agreement on the legislation that passed the Senate today. Once the House passes the bill, it will head to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

Investing in Michigan’s Military Facilities:

$72 Million for a Ground Transport Equipment Building at the Detroit Arsenal: Peters secured an authorization of $72 million toward the construction of a new research and development laboratory to support the arsenal’s advanced tactical and combat system mission functions. He also secured an authorization for $2.4 million for the planning and design of a new tactical vehicle lab. Earlier this year, as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Peters helped advance this funding for the Detroit Arsenal. This builds on Peters’ work to secure $2.5 million last year to help advance and complete the Detroit Arsenal Connector Project on Mound Road, a corridor that is home not only to the Detroit Arsenal but General Motors Tech Center, BAE Systems, General Dynamics Land Systems, and Stellantis and Ford plants.

$24.5 Million for Supply Facilities at Battle Creek Naval and Marine Corps Reserve Center (MCRC): Peters secured an authorization of approximately $24.5 million to construct two new buildings and a vehicle wash platform to support the active duty personnel and drilling reserve personnel assigned to the Battle Creek MCRC. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Peters helped advance this funding for Battle Creek MCRC earlier this year.

Addressing PFAS Contamination in Michigan Communities:

Requiring Cost and Timing Estimates for PFAS Remediation: Peters secured a provision to require the Department of Defense to report to Congress on the proposed schedule and cost estimates of the completion of PFAS remediation activities and publish the current status of those activities. Michigan is home to a number of military installations where PFAS contamination has been detected, including Camp Grayling and the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda. This provision will ensure oversight of the Department of Defense’s efforts to address PFAS contamination at its installations, reducing exposure to servicemembers, their families, and the surrounding communities.

Studying PFAS in Drinking Water: Peters supported a provision in the bill that provides $5 million in funding for a Department of Health and Human Services study on the health implications of PFAS in drinking water at military installations.

Requiring the Department of Defense to Develop a Separate Annual Budget Proposal for PFAS Activities: Peters supported a provision in the bill that requires a separate budget justification document by the Department of Defense that consolidates all information pertaining to activities of the Department relating to PFAS. These include funding for and descriptions of research and development, testing, remediation, contaminant disposal, and community outreach.

Assessing the State of Ongoing Testing and Remediation: Peters supported a provision in the bill that requires the Government Accountability Office to report on the Department of Defense’s efforts to test and remediate current or former military installations contaminated by PFAS. This includes assessing the thoroughness, pace, and cost-effectiveness of the Department’s efforts to conduct testing for and remediation of PFAS and recommendations to improve such efforts.

Studying the Human Health Impacts of PFAS Contamination: Peters supported a provision in the bill that provides funding for the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry to study and assess the health implications of PFAS contamination in drinking water on servicemembers’ health.

Supporting Michigan’s Defense Sector and Advanced Technology:

Developing a Comprehensive Air Force Strategy to Protect Fighter Mission at Selfridge: Peters supported a provision in the bill requiring the Air Force to create a plan for the future of the Air Force’s fighter fleet that includes the Air National Guard, as well as specific plans for the Air National Guard fighter units including the mission housed at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County. Through his role on the Senate Armed Services and Senate Appropriations Committees, Peters is pushing for a long-term fighter jet mission at Selfridge.

Strengthening Buy American Requirements for Defense Programs: The bill includes a provision to require that more U.S. military hardware be manufactured by American companies and workers. The language codifies an executive order issued by President Biden that would strengthen our national security supply chains and encourage more domestic manufacturing by requiring a certain percentage of defense related components to be made in America, bolstering Michigan’s strong defense manufacturing industry.

Bolstering Support for Ground Combat Vehicles: Peters helped secure robust funding for ground combat vehicles – including Abrams tanks, Stryker vehicle upgrades, and Paladin Integrated Management (PIM) systems. These ground vehicle platforms support thousands of good-paying jobs across Michigan. Peters also authored a provision requiring the Army to inform Congress on how they plan to build the necessary lab facilities to test, evaluate, and integrate advanced, and oftentimes sensitive, technologies that are currently being developed onto future ground combat vehicle platforms.

Improving Ground Autonomous Mobility: Peters authored a provision included in the bill requiring the Army to clarify how they are managing autonomous mobility solutions across ground vehicle platforms. Michigan is leading the way on civilian autonomous vehicle development and Peters is fighting to ensure that the Army makes Michigan their home for all autonomous vehicle development moving forward.

Advancing US Strategy for Tactical Wheeled Vehicles: Michigan is home to a number of manufacturers of tactical defense vehicles. Peters secured a provision in the bill that would require the Army to deliver a strategy for its entire tactical wheeled vehicle fleet, which will support Michigan’s industrial defense sector while saving taxpayer dollars.

Strengthening US Counter Defenses Against Drones: Peters authored and secured a provision to extend the Department of Defense’s authorities to defend against threats posed by Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, that are being used by malicious actors. This authority was set to expire in 2023 and was extended until 2026.

Encouraging the Adoption of Dual-Use Technologies: Peters authored a provision included in the bill that encourages the Army to continue using innovative dual-use commercial technologies when developing next generation ground combat systems. Utilizing these technologies is cost-effective and will help keep our military at the cutting edge.

Increasing Usage of Modeling & Simulation Tools: Peters authored a provision included in the bill to encourage the Department of Defense to continue to adopt and develop modeling and simulation tools, which can increase cost-efficiency by allowing engineers to test and design vehicles before building them.

Boosting US Proficiency in Digital Content Provenance: Peters secured the inclusion of his bipartisan bill, the Digital Defense Content Provenance Act. This bill will require the Department of Defense to create a course at the Defense Information School to teach personnel about the threats posed by synthetic media such as deepfakes, as well as emerging technologies and key concepts of digital content provenance. The bill would also create a pilot program at DOD to assess the feasibility of establishing content standard technologies on DOD-produced and owned media content.

Improving Classified Vehicle Integration: Peters included a provision recognizing the importance of the Army planning and budgeting for infrastructure to test, evaluate, and integrate classified systems onto combat platforms. This would assist the Detroit Arsenal and their efforts to test and upgrade current and future combat platforms.

Investing in Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles (MRAP): Peters secured a provision directing the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment to provide a report on long-term strategies, programing and budgeting. Specifically, it expresses concerns that the DOD has not invested in their MRAP vehicle fleet given their importance for partners like Ukraine.

Supporting Our Troops, Their Families, and Our Communities:

Pay Raise for Troops: Peters supported a 5.2 percent pay raise for both military servicemembers and the Department of Defense civilian workforce.

Supporting Veterans with Invisible Wounds of War: Peters included a provision based on his bipartisan Discharge Review Board Accountability Act, that would direct the Government Accountability Office to study and report back to Congress on the compliance of Discharge Review Boards with the Fairness for Veterans Act that Peters authored into law in 2016.

Elevating the Position of the Vice Chief of the National Guard Bureau: Peters included a measure based on his legislation, the Vice Chiefs Parity Act, to elevate the position of the Vice Chief of the National Guard Bureau from a three to a four-star position. Elevating this position will give the National Guard Bureau a stronger voice in the Pentagon to advocate for Guard missions and equipment, as well as efforts to address quality of life issues affecting Guardsmen and their families.

Enduring Organizational Clothing and Individual Equipment Program: Peters included a provision to support the Army effort to plan for and fund an Enduring Organizational Clothing and Individual Equipment (OCIE) program as a way to avoid future shortfalls in critical soldier equipment and avoid industrial base disruptions.

Strengthening Cybersecurity:

Increase Understanding of Domestic Cyber Vulnerabilities: Peters authored a provision included in the bill that would require the Department of Defense to provide a report on potential threats to domestic military installations that are presented by critical infrastructure vulnerabilities in the surrounding communities. Improving our understanding of these threats will help installation commanders better work with local communities to shore up their defenses and prevent adversaries from exploiting these weaknesses to attack our country.

Bolstering Response to Significant Cybersecurity Incidents: Peters secured the inclusion of his bill, the Defense Support for Cyber Emergencies Response Act, which would allow the Secretary of Defense to call up Reservists to active duty to support Department of Defense responses to significant cyber incidents, including for potential requests by the Department of Homeland Security for cyber assistance.

Defending Allies Against Cyber-Attacks: Peters authored a provision in the bill mandating that the Department of Defense study the creation of a “Foreign Cyber Incident Response Plan.” This effort comes in the wake of the devastating Iranian cyber-attacks against our North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) ally Albania. Peters traveled in May to the Western Balkans and met with senior Albanian and U.S. officials to discuss the cyber incident. This provision would help the Department respond to future cyber-attacks against our allies.

Investing in Defense Operations and Supporting U.S. Security Interests:

Bolstering Support for Ukraine and NATO: The bill would take a number of steps to reinforce U.S. support of Ukraine and our NATO allies abroad. It would extend the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) through fiscal year 2027 and authorize the full budget request of $300 million in fiscal year 2024. The bill also includes language expressing that the United States’ commitment to NATO is ironclad and that emphasizes the importance of maintaining a unified response to the Russian Federation’s unjust war in Ukraine.

Boosting Defense Cooperation Between US and Kosovo: Peters secured his bill, the Kosovo Defense Cooperation Enhancement Act, that would allow U.S. and Kosovo forces to train more closely and create new opportunities for the Kosovo military to participate in multi-national exercises. Giving Kosovo these opportunities would increase their defense capabilities and strengthen ties between our nations. This builds on Peters’ trip to Kosovo, Albania and the Western Balkans earlier this year.

Working to End the War in Yemen: Peters supported a provision to extend the U.S.’s prohibition on providing in-flight refueling that would support offensive operations conducted by the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen. Peters has repeatedly spoken out against the war in Yemen and the resulting humanitarian crisis, including most recently on the Senate floor in March following the eighth anniversary of the war.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-peters-bipartisan-provision-to-expand-access-to-opioid-addiction-treatment-for-adolescents-advances-in-senate,Senator Peters’ Bipartisan Provision to Expand Access to Opioid Addiction Treatment for Adolescents Advances in Senate,2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – A bipartisan provision led by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to expand access to opioid addiction treatment for adolescents has advanced in the Senate as part of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act. The bipartisan SUPPORT for Patient Reauthorization Act would reauthorize federal funding for numerous opioid prevention, education, coverage, and treatment programs to help address the ongoing opioid epidemic that has devastated communities in Michigan and across the country. Peters’ provision in the SUPPORT Act – based off his Youth Prevention and Recovery Reauthorization Act – would reauthorize funding specifically for the Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative. Peters established this initiative through legislation he authored into law in 2018 to make an existing substance abuse treatment program available for young adults. Peters’ provision would ensure this critical resource remains available to adolescents, families, care providers, and communities. The SUPPORT for Patients Reauthorization Act was approved by the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee and now moves to the full Senate for consideration.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), more than 695,000 American adolescents used opioids for nonmedical reasons in 2018, up by more than 400,000 since the last study was conducted in 2015. In December 2022, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that monthly drug overdose deaths nearly tripled among adolescents age 10 to 19 years during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic. In Michigan, deaths from opioid overdoses have increased roughly 18 times from 1999 – 2021, when there were more than 2,800 overdose deaths.

“Opioid addiction has devastated far too many families and communities throughout our state and country. To address this epidemic, we must make sure people have access to the kind of treatment they need to get better, especially our young people who have their whole lives ahead of them,” said Senator Peters. “My provision in the SUPPORT for Patients Reauthorization Act would ensure adolescents can continue to access lifesaving treatments and resources to help set them on a path toward recovery, and I encourage my colleagues to support its passage into law.”

The Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative allocates funding to hospitals, local governments, and eligible entities to enhance the availability of opioid addiction medications for adolescents and young adults diagnosed with opioid use disorder. The initiative aims to heighten awareness of fentanyl risks among youth, while also providing training to healthcare providers, families, and school personnel on optimal approaches to support young individuals dealing with opioid use disorder.

The use of certain medications – such as buprenorphine – has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment for opioid addiction and improves success rates for continuing treatment and recovery. Medication assisted treatment (MAT) with buprenorphine and other effective drugs is an essential public health tool to prevent future loss of life for those suffering from opioid addiction. However, MAT is often designed for adults, making it more difficult for adolescents to access this proven treatment.

Peters’ provision in the SUPPORT for Patients Reauthorization Act seeks to protect and renew the Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative. This initiative, known for providing three-year grants to youth-focused entities, supports the implementation of substance use disorder treatment, prevention, and recovery support services. The legislation also extends the scope of an existing youth substance use disorder program at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to encompass services for young adults, in addition to children and adolescents. Notably, the authorization for the program, along with the other federal programs included in the SUPPORT Act, expired on September 30, 2023.

The following organizations have endorsed Peters’ provision based on his Youth Prevention and Recovery Reauthorization Act: American Academy of Pediatrics, American Psychiatric Association, American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Academy of Addition Psychiatry, and the Partnership to End Addiction.

Below are statements in support of Peters’ legislation.

“We applaud Senator Peters and Senator Capito for their commitment to expanding access to life saving substance use disorder treatment for youth and adolescents, particularly for racially and ethnically marginalized populations. Research supports treating patients, including youth, with opioid use disorders with FDA-approved medications as the gold standard and we believe this legislation is a critical first step towards improving access to services and better outcomes,” said Larissa Mooney, MD, President of the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry.

“Despite the availability of safe, effective, and lifesaving treatment, adolescents and young adults with substance use disorders face significant barriers accessing medication for addiction treatment. By reauthorizing SAMHSA's Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative, the bipartisan Youth Prevention and Recovery Reauthorization Act would make needed progress to help ensure young people can access this vital treatment, while also addressing the unique barriers they too often face in getting the care they need. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) calls on Congress to advance this important legislation and thanks Senator Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) for their leadership on this issue,” said American Academy of Pediatrics President Sandy Chung, MD, FAAP.

“While it is incredibly difficult for anyone with addiction to access effective treatment, adolescents have exceedingly limited treatment options. In the midst of an unrelenting opioid crisis that is claiming the lives of far too many young people, it is critical for the federal government to provide resources to make evidence-based treatment, such as medications for the treatment of opioid use disorder, more widely available,” said Lindsey Vuolo, Vice President of Health Law and Policy, Partnership to End Addiction.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-peters-and-stabenow-applaud-federal-funding-to-improve-safety-on-michigan-roadways,Senators Peters & Stabenow Applaud Federal Funding to Improve Safety on Michigan Roadways,2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) applauded several federal investments coming to Michigan communities through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program, which funds local and regional road safety projects that will help prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries. Funding for this program is made possible through the bipartisan infrastructure law that the senators helped enact.

“It’s important that Michiganders feel safe when using our roadways, regardless of whether they are driving a car, riding a bike or walking,” said Senator Peters. “These federal investments will help our communities take the necessary steps to address safety concerns and ensure our roadways are as safe as possible.”

“This investment will give our local communities the tools they need to keep Michigan pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers safe. Roadway deaths are all too common, and this is an important step to improve some of the most dangerous streets in our state,” said Senator Stabenow.

Americans are currently enduring a safety crisis on our roads. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that 42,915 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2021, the highest number of fatalities since 2005 and the largest annual percentage increase ever recorded. Preliminary statistics from 2022 continue to indicate elevated rates of roadway fatalities. The SS4A program will help reverse this trend by supporting the development of comprehensive safety action plans, which help identify and address the most significant roadway safety concerns in a community. Once a comprehensive safety action plan is in place, a community is eligible to apply for additional grant funding to demonstrate or implement strategies defined in its action plan.

The communities and entities listed below are receiving funding for demonstration and implementation activities related to an action plan:

The City of Dearborn is receiving $24,894,430 to install a road diet, which will calm traffic along a two-mile stretch of Warren Avenue. This project also includes the addition of a separated bike lane and installation of LED lighting, which will improve safety and lower the carbon footprint of the area.

The City of Detroit is receiving $24,800,000 to improve safety and bus stop accessibility at 56 high-crash intersections served by the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) bus service. Safety implementations include sidewalk widening, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) curb ramp updates, high-visibility crosswalks and signal timing improvements.

Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) is receiving $10,000,000 to test a variety of road safety measures aimed at protecting pedestrians and bicyclists, who are among the most vulnerable road users. This includes in installation of bike lanes, curb extensions, speed bumps and enhanced crosswalk pavement markings.

Macomb County is receiving $2,140,000 to implement video analytics platforms to identify safety issues at signalized intersections.

The entities listed below are receiving funding to develop initial comprehensive safety action plans:

Novi Safety Action Plan - $160,320

Wayne County Comprehensive Safety Action Plan - $1,000,000

Dearborn Heights Safety Action Plan - $396,700

City of Saginaw Safety Action Plan - $278,530

Canton Township Safe Streets and Roads for All Action Plan - $396,800

Mount Clemens Downtown District Comprehensive Safety Action Plan - $80,320

City of Pontiac Road Safety Action Plan Development Project - $200,000

Creating Safe, Equitable Streets for the Cities of Wayne, Westland, Garden City, and Inkster - $192,000

More information about the Safe Streets and Roads for All program can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bill-to-protect-american-genetic-data-from-foreign-adversaries,Peters Introduces Bill to Protect American Genetic Data From Foreign Adversaries,2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, introduced legislation to combat the ability of foreign adversaries to steal American genetic data and personal health information. The bill would prevent biotechnology companies, such as the BGI Group (BGI), that have significant ties to foreign adversaries, such as the Chinese Communist Party, from accessing American genetic data and personal health information by creating a comprehensive process to identify companies with business practices that pose a threat to U.S. national security. The bill would also ban companies that are identified as national security risks from receiving taxpayer dollars through federal government contracts.

“Every day, Americans get blood drawn or take other medical tests to protect their health, but few people know exactly who might have access to the DNA information contained in those samples. As the biotechnology sector becomes more prominent in everyday life, the threats posed by biotech companies controlled by adversaries, like the Chinese government, loom larger.” said Senator Peters. “My bill will protect Americans’ personal health and genetic information from foreign adversaries who have the ability and motivation to undermine our national security.”

Biotechnology is a rapidly expanding field with many beneficial applications, including promoting human health, improving agricultural production, and spurring industrial innovation. U.S. academic institutions and companies have accelerated investments in biotechnology to advance American science and maintain America’s economic edge in this highly competitive and complex field. However, biological data, such as DNA sequences, can be exploited for military purposes, used to invade privacy, and violate human rights. The U.S. intelligence community has cited the Chinese Communist Party’s concerted efforts to acquire human genetic and related data through biotechnology companies such as the BGI Group (BGI) as a serious threat to U.S. national security. Other adversarial governments also recognize the strategic value of biotechnology to gain military and economic advantage. The U.S. has taken some steps to mitigate these threats, including by adding BGI subsidiaries to the U.S. Department of Commerce Entity List – which identifies foreign entities that may pose a security threat to the United States. However, the Chinese government and other adversaries often seek ways to get around these restrictions, and a more comprehensive strategic approach to addressing these threats is needed.

According to reporting from Reuters, if the personal health information and genetic data of Americans, such as blood samples, DNA data, and individual medical history, get into the hands of adversarial foreign governments, it could pave the way for numerous security risks, including “genetically enhanced soldiers, or engineered pathogens to target the U.S. population or food supply.” According to the Washington Post, if companies who allow foreign governments to access this information are allowed to operate in the United States unchecked, those adversarial nations stand “to gain significant economic and strategic leverage against” the United States.

The Safeguarding American Genetic Data Act of 2023 would require the President to rapidly identify biotechnology companies that pose a threat to U.S. national security by utilizing expert advice from all relevant federal agencies and block those companies from receiving taxpayer-funded federal contracts. Based on existing threat information and known problematic business practices, a determination will specifically be made within 180 days of enactment whether BGI, MGI, or Complete Genomics are biotechnology companies of concern that should be banned from federal contracts. Federal leaders would subsequently develop and implement regulations to prohibit federal agencies from procuring or obtaining biotechnology equipment and services from companies of concern, and examine whether such a prohibition should be expanded to grant recipients to better protect American genetic data and personal health information from being given to foreign adversaries.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-peters-and-stabenow-announce-federal-investment-to-expand-passenger-rail-service-in-michigan,Senators Peters & Stabenow Announce Federal Investment to Expand Passenger Rail Service in Michigan,2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced that the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is receiving federal funding to plan for the development of three intercity rail corridors across Michigan – including new cross-border service to Ontario, Canada. This investment will expand accessible and affordable transportation service between key urban and rural communities throughout the state. The grant funding is made available through the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Corridor Identification and Development (Corridor ID) Program, which was established by the bipartisan infrastructure law the Senators helped enact.

“By investing in development of new and improved passenger rail service, we have an opportunity to transform how Michiganders travel across our state and region,” said Senator Peters. “I advocated for each of these MDOT projects because this funding will make rail transportation a more available and reliable option for travelers while spurring economic development.”

“This investment will improve the reliability of our passenger trains so that people can count on more convenient schedules and trains that run on time. This is another investment in our state’s infrastructure that is long overdue that was made possible by our passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” said Senator Stabenow.

“These grants will help the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) develop and update the service development plans for the Amtrak Pere Marquette, Blue Water, and Wolverine routes and collaborate with the Ohio Rail Development Commission on the Detroit-Toledo-Cleveland corridor,” said MDOT Director Bradley C. Wieferich. “We appreciate the work of our federal partners in Congress and the Federal Rail Administration in providing funds to help us identify areas in these rail corridors where we can make investments to improve reliability and reduce bottlenecks.”

Each grantee selected by the FRA receives a $500,000 investment to initiate planning for improvements to existing service and development of new service in intercity passenger rail corridors. This funding will allow MDOT to continue implementation of its Michigan Mobility 2045 Plan, which is aimed at providing increased transportation options for travelers while boosting economic growth in communities across the state. Descriptions of each corridor project that is receiving funding can be found below:

Detroit/Pontiac to Chicago Corridor: This project will connect existing service between Chicago and Detroit/Pontiac with an extension to Windsor, Ontario.

Port Huron to Chicago Corridor: Funding will be used to make rail service more frequent and address on-time performance and reliability.

Grand Rapids to Chicago Corridor: This project seeks to expand passenger rail service and increase ridership along the corridor.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-announces-90k-americorps-funding-support-west-michigan,Rep. Scholten Announces $90k in AmeriCorps Funding to Support West Michigan Organizations,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) announced $99,360 in funding through AmeriCorps, the agency for service and volunteering, for the development of new AmeriCorps VISTA projects in West Michigan.

“Service is central to who we are as West Michiganders, and every day, the Greater Grand Rapids NAACP and HOAP work to improve the lives of our friends and neighbors,”said Rep. Scholten. “These much-needed funds will be essential to their work to create a better West Michigan for all, especially those who have been ignored for far too long. I look forward to seeing the change this funding will bring to our community.”

The AmeriCorps VISTA program sends corps members to local organizations across the country to work on anti-poverty projects and expand their organization's capacity. Each corps member serves for one year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/second-stevens-bill-two-weeks-sails-through-house-demonstrating-commitment,Second Stevens Bill in Two Weeks Sails through House Demonstrating Commitment to Nation’s Research Agenda,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed on suspension the DOE and NSF Interagency Research Act (H.R. 2980) led by Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Research and Technology Subcommittee on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee. Co-led by Congressman Jim Baird (R-IN), the bill authorizes critical collaborative research between the Department of Energy and National Science Foundation on issues including quantum computing, foundational research, advanced manufacturing, and STEM education.

This is the second time in as many weeks that bipartisan legislation introduced by Congresswoman Stevens has passed the House.

“DOE and NSF represent some of our nation’s most cutting-edge research activities supporting the innovation that we require to solve our most pressing issues and remain competitive on the world stage,” said Ranking Member Stevens. “The work of these two agencies is critical to developing the solutions needed to our nation’s most pressing issues. The CHIPS and Science Act, that I helped author along with my Science Committee colleagues, strengthens DOE and NSF, and aims to set them up for success in the coming years. To ensure that we are maximizing the impact of that historic bill, we must promote cross-cutting interagency research activities—this bill will do just that. I was proud to join in leading this bill with my colleague Representative Jim Baird and I look forward to seeing this effort to the finish line.”

“Operating in a silo is never the best practice, especially when conducting scientific research,” said Congressman Baird. “I’m pleased the House is prioritizing interagency cooperation at the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation by passing my legislation directing them to coordinate regularly and share their findings. I’d like to thank Congresswoman Stevens for her support in passing this bill, and I urge the Senate to take up this legislation without delay.”

Congresswoman Stevens serves as the Ranking Member of the Research and Technology Subcommittee on the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, where she serves as a leading voice in support of the United States’ premiere federal research agencies.

Complete text of the bill can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-urge-senate-appropriators-to-include-funding-for-f-15ex-fighter-jets-at-selfridge-in-defense-appropriations-bill,"Peters, Stabenow Urge Senate Appropriators to Include Funding for F-15EX Fighter Jets at Selfridge in Defense Appropriations Bill",2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) urged the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations to include funding in the 2024 defense appropriation bill for additional fighter aircraft such as the F-15EX at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. The Senators also advocated for continued funding for Exercise Northern Strike and the modernization of Army National Guard facilities to ensure equitable access for female servicemembers.

In a letter to U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Patty Murray and Vice Chair Susan Collins, Peters and Stabenow highlighted how crucial this funding is for defense priorities that are important to Michigan’s military installations and our country.

“We strongly urge you to increase funding for the advanced procurement of additional fighter aircraft such as the F-15EX for Fiscal Year 2024. Bases around the country, including Selfridge Air National Guard Base, are set to see their aging fighter aircraft divested in the coming years. We must take action now to recapitalize bases like Selfridge, which is uniquely positioned to host a new, long-term fighter mission,” the Senators wrote.

For years, Peters and Stabenow have led the effort to secure long-term investments for Michigan’s military installations, including Selfridge. This letter builds on these efforts.

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

Dear Chairwoman Murray and Vice Chair Collins:

As the House and Senate work towards passing the Fiscal Year 2024 defense appropriations bills, we urge you to fund the following defense priorities that are important to Michigan’s military installations and our country.

We strongly urge you to increase funding for the advanced procurement of additional fighter aircraft such as the F-15EX for Fiscal Year 2024. Bases around the country, including Selfridge Air National Guard Base, are set to see their aging fighter aircraft divested in the coming years. We must take action now to recapitalize bases like Selfridge, which is uniquely positioned to host a new, long-term fighter mission. Michigan’s unique physical environment and industrial capabilities are an asset to any fighter mission based at Selfridge, and in turn, an asset for the Air National Guard and the Air Force. Procuring additional aircraft and basing them at Selfridge would further fill an operational gap along the northern border as we look to threats over the polar arctic corridor.

Additionally, we strongly support and thank you for including $23 million for Exercise Northern Strike in FY 2024. Bringing together participants from roughly half of our states and territories and several of our international partners, Northern Strike is a joint exercise focusing on expeditionary skills, command and control, sustainment, and joint integrated fires. We are proud that Michigan has hosted Northern Strike since 2012, and servicemembers from across the country and the world have the opportunity to utilize Michigan’s National All-Domain Warfighting Center (NADWC). As one of the Department of Defense’s largest reserve component readiness exercises, Northern Strike is an asset to our national security posture and readiness.

Finally, we strongly support robust funding for the modernization of Army National Guard facilities and armories to ensure equity and readiness for female servicemembers. Thanks to funding in Fiscal Year 2023 appropriations bills, the Michigan Army National Guard has already begun several projects to modernize its facilities across the state. Many facilities are still in need of urgent upgrades. Our female servicemembers are crucial to the Total Force, and our investments must match that commitment.

We realize the difficult budgetary constraints facing this year’s defense funding bills, particularly due to demands from the House majority. We strongly urge your consideration of these critical items for Michigan as you finalize funding for Fiscal Year 2024 defense appropriations.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-shri-thanedar-introduces-the-digital-literacy-and-equity-commission-bill-to-enhance-digital-competence,"Rep. Shri Thanedar Introduces the ""Digital Literacy and Equity Commission"" Bill to Enhance Digital Competence",2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,MI,Shri Thanedar,T000488,thanedar.house.gov,thanedar,https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - December 5, 2023 - Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) has introduced a new bill, the ""Digital Literacy and Equity Commission,"" aimed at enhancing digital literacy and addressing digital inequity across the United States. Without internet access, many students are falling behind due to online learning or an inability to complete schoolwork, known as the “homework gap”.

""The 'Digital Literacy and Equity Commission' Bill is a crucial step to improve digital literacy and bridge the digital divide in our nation,"" said Congressman Thanedar. ""This initiative focuses on equipping all Americans with the necessary digital skills for today's world.""

Key Aspects of the Bill:

Establishment of the Commission: A new commission to study and promote digital literacy.

Comprehensive Analysis: Examining the state of digital literacy, particularly in low-income and disadvantaged areas.

International Comparison: Reviewing digital literacy programs from around the world to identify best practices.

Strategic Development: Formulating recommendations to enhance digital literacy in the United States.

""This bill addresses the need to ensure that every citizen has access to essential digital skills,"" Congressman Thanedar noted. ""It's about leveling the playing field in the digital age.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-presses-for-transparency-on-potential-impacts-of-postal-services-network-plan,Peters Presses for Transparency on Potential Impacts of Postal Service’s Network Plan,2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, is pressing the United States Postal Service (USPS) to provide transparency on the potential impacts of its Network Plan on delivery service and communities. In a letter, Peters requested details and analyses of the full scope and associated impacts of the Postal Service’s plans, which include changes to some facilities. Peters raised concerns about the pace of these changes, and called on the Postal Service to provide full transparency on its long-term plans to ensure that any changes will not harm delivery service. Peters also urged the Postal Service to fully cooperate with ongoing, independent oversight efforts by the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) and USPS Office of Inspector General.

“In line with the Postal Service’s mission of reliably serving every community, it is essential to ensure full transparency about these plans and ensure any changes will not adversely impact service,” wrote Senator Peters. “It is essential that USPS study and disclose details about the impacts of any changes, including impacts on service. I urge the Postal Service to fully study the impacts of early facility changes before moving forward with plans.”

Peters has championed efforts to protect the Postal Service and its 250-year tradition of delivery service to all Americans. Peters authored and led passage of a historic, bipartisan law to set the Postal Service on a more sustainable financial footing and support the goal of providing long-term reliable service across the country. The law made the first major reforms to the Postal Service in more than 15 years, including requiring six-day delivery.

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

Dear Postmaster General DeJoy,

I write to request details about the U.S. Postal Service’s (USPS) planned and ongoing implementation of changes to its network, including additional information on the scope of these plans and their associated impacts. I urge the Postal Service to fully study the impacts of its plans, provide transparency, and comply with oversight from the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) and USPS Office of Inspector General (OIG). In line with the Postal Service’s mission of reliably serving every community, it is essential to ensure full transparency about these plansand ensure any changes will not adversely impact service.

USPS previewed potential changes to network in its ten-year strategic plan (“Delivering for America”) and subsequent communications. Since then, USPS has gradually released additional details about a long-term plan for changes to its nationwide processing and delivery operations network (hereinafter “the Network Plan”), and has begun to implement changes including moving processing operations within and between facilities. The plan includes moving local processing operations in some areas from “Delivery Units” (often co-located with post offices) into new and more centralized “Sorting and Delivery Centers,” as well as transferring some operations at regional facilities (particularly package processing) to nearby facilities, with the stated goal of improving efficiency and service. USPS has said this plan will not entail closure of post offices or result in employee layoffs, and has committed to not reducing any retail services.

USPS indicated it would study and continuously monitor the impacts of initial changes before moving forward with the plan. However, USPS has already moved forward with changes to over 25 facilities and is studying more than 160 facilities for future changes. These changes are occurring at an accelerated pace, with new details emerging intermittently for USPS customers and employees. I am concerned about the pace of these changes and urge USPS to provide full transparency on its plans moving forward. It is essential that USPS study and disclose details about the impacts of any changes, including impacts on service. I urge the Postal Service to fully study the impacts of early facility changes before moving forward with plans. I also urge USPS to fully cooperate with oversight of its network plans, including the PRC’s and OIG’s independent inquiries.

I request that USPS respond to the following questions by February 5, 2024, to provide additional transparency on the Network Plan and its impacts:

Please explain in detail how USPS has assessed the projected service impacts of these network changes. USPS has said it holistically evaluated various factors and data prior to executing each facility change. How is the Postal Service studying potential or projected service impacts before execution of each facility change?

Please provide details on any data that support the service projections. Explain in detail which data USPS has analyzed prior to executing changes and provide examples.

Please explain how much time USPS has taken to evaluate actual service impacts at facilities where USPS implemented changes. USPS indicated that it has collected service performance data at facility sites after implementing changes. Please send available service performance data for implemented sites.

USPS implemented 14 Sorting and Delivery Center (S&DC) facilities by June 2023, and 7 more by September (3 months later). It appears the time between rounds of implemented sites is too short to draw statistically meaningful conclusions about the extent of the service impacts. Why has USPS moved forward with additional rounds of S&DC implementation, before receiving more service data to make conclusions about past rounds?

USPS has stated the overall goal of this plan is to achieve service excellence and financial sustainability. How is USPS calculating any associated financial impacts of these facility changes (new costs and savings), and how is it measuring projections against results? Please explain the methodology used and factors analyzed.

Why has USPS not released a full list of facilities under review for possible future changes (including for S&DCs, Local Processing Centers, and Regional Processing & Distribution Centers)?

Please provide a full list of all facilities USPS is targeting for implementation in 2024, including those still under review, and expected timelines for continued study.

Please provide a complete list of all impact studies USPS has completed on its Network Plan as a whole, including service impacts, community impacts, and employee impacts.

In deciding where to move forward with plans, USPS has conducted reviews of potential facility sites, considering factors such as delivery route impacts, employee commute times, sequence of mail and package flows, staffing impacts, and financial rigor. Please provide a list of all factors USPS has studied prior to moving forward with changes.

How has USPS assessed the Network Plan’s potential and actual impacts on employees? Please list any employee conditions USPS expects to change, as well as impact assessments USPS has completed.

USPS has committed that there will be no employee layoffs as part of its plan. Does the Network Plan assume any net impact on job numbers due to the planned changes (compared to status quo), including jobs reduced by attrition?

Changes associated with S&DCs may alter local employees’ commute to work. What are the average changes in commute time for employees, and what are the outliers (range)?

USPS asserts it has communicated regularly with employee groups about its plans. It is important to involve employees in discussions of tentative plans, before such plans are final. What is the earliest notification USPS provides to local employees about a potential facility change?

USPS is currently evaluating more than 100 new S&DC locations. Has USPS involved employee groups in the evaluation process for these potential changes? Will USPS commit to sharing early lists of potential changes and incorporating employee groups’ feedback?

USPS has stated that as individual facility work progresses, it may be prudent to change plans if unanticipated events develop. How is USPS evaluating the need to change plans? Would USPS stop progression of the Network Plan and reassess if it observes unintended adverse impacts on service, customers, or employees?

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-thanedar-honors-the-legacy-of-mayor-coleman-a-young-on-the-26th-anniversary-of-his-passing,Rep. Thanedar Honors the Legacy of Mayor Coleman A. Young on the 26th Anniversary of His Passing,2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Shri Thanedar,T000488,thanedar.house.gov,thanedar,https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - November 29, 2023 - Today, Congressman Shri Thanedar, representing Michigan's 13th Congressional District, made the following statement in the House of Representatives commemoration of the 26th anniversary of the passing of Mayor Coleman A. Young, Detroit's longest-serving and first African-American mayor:

“I rise today to honor the memory of the longest serving mayor of the city I so proudly represent, Mayor Coleman A. Young, on the 26th anniversary of his passing.

“Born in the throes of segregation in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Mayor Young rose from the humble beginnings of the Great Migration to become a beacon of hope and a pillar of strength for the city of Detroit. His journey was marked not just by the offices he held, but by the indomitable spirit he embodied – a spirit that challenged inequality, fought for justice, and tirelessly sought to uplift every resident of Detroit.

“As Detroit's first African-American mayor, he broke barriers and built bridges. He led our city through times of challenge and change, always with an unwavering vision for a more inclusive and prosperous Detroit. His efforts to integrate the Detroit Police Department and to fight excessive use of force were not just administrative actions, but bold steps towards healing and unity. His advocacy for affirmative action and his dedication to economic development were testament to his belief in a Detroit that offered opportunity for all. Under his leadership, Detroit saw the rise of vital infrastructure and community projects, laying the groundwork for the city's future.

“As we reflect on Mayor Young's legacy, let us remember his courage, his unwavering commitment to civil rights, and his enduring love for Detroit. His life’s work reminds us of the power of resilience, the importance of visionary leadership, and the unyielding pursuit of equality. Mayor Young's legacy is not confined to the past; it is a guiding light for our future, motivating us to continue building a city that is as strong, as vibrant, and as inclusive as the remarkable leader we commemorate today. May his memory continue to inspire us all.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-peters-and-stabenow-announce-10-million-in-additional-federal-funding-for-new-beaver-island-ferry,Senators Peters & Stabenow Announce $10 Million in Additional Federal Funding for New Beaver Island Ferry,2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced that the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has been awarded $10,000,000 in federal funding to help construct a new passenger ferry to improve transportation between Charlevoix and Beaver Island. The grant funding is made available through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program, which was established by the bipartisan infrastructure law that the Senators helped enact.

“All year long, residents and tourists rely on ferry service for transportation to and from Beaver Island,” said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Commerce Committee. “I advocated for this grant funding, which will make transportation of both people and freight to Beaver Island more efficient while supporting the Island’s economy.”

“Beaver Island is one of Michigan’s most unique communities,” said Senator Stabenow. “I advocated strongly for this project and understand what a vital service this is for residents and the local economy.”

“Water transportation is essential for the residents and economy, carrying passengers, vehicles, and freight to and from the Island,” said Mary Cook, Executive Director of the Beaver Island Transportation Authority. “Senator Peters and Senator Stabenow have taken an interest in the unique transportation needs of our community and understand the importance of the ferry system for the Island. We are extremely grateful to them for doing so and thankful for their support of our grant applications for these projects.”

Two ferries currently service Beaver Island, one of which is more than 60-years-old. A replacement vessel was designed in 2012, but did not have the funding to move forward. Using this DOT investment, along with a $6,628,285 grant the Senators helped secure in January, planning can now move forward for construction of an efficient, reliable, and environmentally-friendly ferry. The Beaver Island Transportation Authority is currently conducting a propulsion study to determine the best fuel source for the vessel. Once the study is completed, the 2012 design will be modified and the construction process can begin.

In addition to ferry construction, this grant funding will also support necessary dock renovations in both Beaver Island and Charlevoix to accommodate the new vessel. The Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program provides funding to support and expand essential ferry service in rural communities across the country. More information about the program can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/two-scholten-backed-bills-support-small-businesses-pass-house,Two Scholten-Backed Bills to Support Small Businesses Pass House,2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WATCH: Rep. Scholten speaks on the House Floor in support of her two bills.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, two bills co-lead by Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) through the House Small Business Committee passed the House of Representatives – the POST It Act and the Small Business Contracting Transparency Act.

“Small businesses are the heartbeat of West Michigan and the entire country, and these bills are essential to helping small businesses thrive. I’d like to thank my colleagues for coming together in a bipartisan way to get these bills over the finish line,”said Rep. Scholten. “As a member of the Small Business Committee, I’ll keep fighting to make sure that small businesses have the resources they need to succeed.”

The POST It Act would help small businesses stay in compliance with federal regulations by making compliance information from federal agencies easier to locate and understand. Rep. Scholten served as the Democratic co-lead of the bill and helped usher the legislation through the Small Business Committee.

The Small Business Contracting Transparency Act would help women-owned, veteran-owned, and HUBZone-located small businesses compete in the federal contracting marketplace, by enhancing great transparency in contract deals. Federal contracting has been historically dominated by large corporations, but contracting with small businesses has major advantages for quality and security.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-stevens-d-mi-resolution-condemning-hostage-taking-hamas-passes,Congresswoman Stevens (D-MI) Resolution Condemning Hostage Taking by Hamas Passes U.S. House Unanimously,2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously adopted a resolution introduced by Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI), Co-Chair of the Congressional Hostage Task Force, demanding the immediate release of all innocents held hostage by Hamas in the wake of the brutal October 7th terrorist attack on Israel.

Co-sponsored by Rep. French Hill (R-AR) Co-Chair of the Congressional Hostage Task Force, this bipartisan resolution passed 414-0

“For 52 days more than 200 people have been held in tunnels, without medical care or sufficient food. For 52 days, their families have been waiting with bated breath to learn the fate of their loved ones – tiny babies, parents, elderly people,” said Rep. Haley Stevens. “It is inhumane, immoral, and a violation of humanitarian law. Recent releases of hostages are a positive step, but it is not enough. After weeks of working with the families of hostages, I’m heartened that every single one of my colleagues voted to support this resolution this evening, and that all my colleagues joined me in condemning the actions of Hamas and calling for the immediate release of ALL innocent civilians held, including nine Americans. I will not stop until each and every hostage is safely returned.”

“Holding innocent civilians hostage is immoral,” said Rep. French Hill. “While Hamas releasing some of the hostages last week was a step in the right direction, it is not enough until all those held against their will by this savage terrorist group are released from captivity. I am proud that my resolution with Rep. Haley Stevens passed the House tonight, further demonstrating our steadfast commitment to bringing all those held hostage by Hamas home safely.”

Complete text of the resolution can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-agreement-to-release-hostages-from-gaza,Peters Statement on Agreement to Release Hostages from Gaza,2023-11-22,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"DETROIT, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement on the agreement reached to release 50 hostages held by Hamas and allow humanitarian aid to reach innocent civilians:

“This agreement to release 50 women and children who have been held hostage by Hamas since their brutal attack on October 7th is welcome news. I appreciate the Biden Administration’s efforts to work with our international partners to broker this agreement, which will also allow additional humanitarian aid to reach innocent families in Gaza who have been dragged into this crisis by Hamas’s actions.

“As the parties work to see this deal through, the United States and our international partners must continue working to secure the safe release of all the remaining hostages and protect innocent civilians. Finally, Israel must have the steadfast support of the United States – including additional aid – as it works to eliminate Hamas, end their deadly campaign and prevent this conflict from expanding.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-hosts-small-business-saturday-preview,Rep. Scholten Hosts Small Business Saturday Preview,2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"View a reply of the press conference here.

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03), member of the House Small Business Committee, joined The Arts Marketplace leadership and small business owners to highlight the importance of supporting small businesses ahead of Small Business Saturday.

“Small businesses are the economic engine of West Michigan. When you shop small, you’re not just getting an incredible homemade gift or service– your dollars are being invested right back into your own community,” said Rep. Scholten. “It was an honor to join small business leaders this afternoon to talk about how important it is to shop small ahead of the holiday season.”

""Shopping small isn't just a purchase, it's an investment in your community. At Wear Your Curls, we believe that every small purchase adds up to big changes – changes that strengthen our local economies and bring us closer as a community. This Small Business Saturday, let's celebrate the power of small businesses to bring us together and make our neighborhoods thrive,"" said Felisha Rodriguez, CEO of Wear Your Curls.

""Our mission is not only to fill a need downtown for retail space, but to do so in a way that fosters inclusion and belonging in our community with women and minority-owned businesses... every dollar that gets spent here goes right back to our makers which helps our local community and makes a big impact,""said Jamie Dionne, Board President of The Arts Marketplace.

“Currently, we are hosting 65 different small businesses within our store – things ranging from jewelry, to books, to candles, home goods, greeting cards, clothing, and different beauty products as well. We are always looking to grow our community of vendors here,” said Kelcey Edwards, General Manager of The Arts Marketplace.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/scholten-statement-deal-release-hamas-held-hostages,Scholten Statement on Deal to Release Hamas-Held Hostages,2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) issued the below statement after a vote by the Israeli cabinet approving a deal to release Hamas-held hostages:

“It’s with tempered relief that we receive the news of a deal to release hostages that were held for too long by Hamas and take the first step to de-escalation in this conflict. I’d like to thank the Biden Administration for working tirelessly on this issue and for heeding calls from me and my colleagues to take action and return the hostages home as soon as possible and turn towards peace.

While this is an encouraging development in the conflict, it will never take away from the horror these victims experienced or replace the innocent lives lost since the terrorist attacks on October 7th. One thing is clear: Hamas must go.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-shri-thanedar-introduces-the-health-disparity-zones-act-of-2023-to-combat-health-inequities,Rep. Shri Thanedar Introduces the Health Disparity Zones Act of 2023 to Combat Health Inequities,2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Shri Thanedar,T000488,thanedar.house.gov,thanedar,https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - November 21, 2023 - Today, Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) introduced the ""Health Disparity Zones Act of 2023."" This legislation aims to address and reduce the significant health disparities present in underserved and disadvantaged areas across the United States by establishing Health Disparity Zones.

""The Health Disparity Zones Act is a crucial step towards bridging the gap in healthcare inequities that plague our nation,"" said Congressman Thanedar. ""By identifying and supporting these zones, we can target resources effectively to those communities most in need.""

Key elements of the Health Disparity Zones Act include:

Designation of Health Disparity Zones: Areas with documented health disparities and poor health outcomes will be designated as Health Disparity Zones.

Comprehensive Support: The Act proposes tax incentives, grants, and a student loan repayment program to attract and retain healthcare professionals in these zones.

Increased Medicare Payments: A 10-percent increase in Medicare Part B payment rates for services in Health Disparity Zones.

Collaborative Approach: Involving community-based organizations, healthcare providers, and local governments in the development of effective health strategies.

""This legislation is about recognizing and actively addressing the unequal health challenges faced by different communities,"" Congressman Thanedar emphasized. ""Healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and this Act takes significant steps towards making that a reality for all Americans.""

The Act also mandates annual reporting to Congress, ensuring transparency and accountability in its implementation.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-commercial-space-industry-policy-and-competitiveness,Senator Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Commercial Space Industry Policy and Competitiveness,2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen commercial space policy and promote industry competitiveness by establishing a Commercial Space Activity Advisory Committee within the Office of Space Commerce. This legislation enables the advisory committee to share important insights into non-governmental space activity and empowers its members to inform and shape federal policy and programs.

“As connected technologies continue to evolve, space-based assets will only become more critical to our safety and national security,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan legislation would give our space industry leaders a seat at the table to help shape federal space policy and ensure the United States is at the forefront of commercial space development.”

“The commercial space industry is growing rapidly, and it is important for government to help it continue,” said Senator Wicker. “Establishing a new advisory committee staffed by subject matter experts across industry, academia, and policy will help us guide this industry into the next era.”

The Commercial Space Activity Advisory Committee would be comprised of 15 members who make recommendations on various priorities, including:

Identifying challenges relating to international obligations and export controls that affect the commercial space sector.

Addressing the need to access adequate, predictable and reliable radio frequency spectrum.

Reviewing best practices for U.S. entities to avoid harmful environmental impacts to both earth and space.

Providing recommendations on matters related to space sector development and other activities the advisory committee considers necessary.

The Commercial Space Activity Advisory Committee Act is supported by Commercial Spaceflight Federation and ATLAS Space Operations.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-peters-statement-on-congressman-kildees-retirement-from-congress,Senator Peters’ Statement on Congressman Kildee’s Retirement from Congress,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement on U.S. Representative Dan Kildee’s (MI-08) decision not to seek re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives:

“Congressman Kildee embodies the true meaning of public service. Dan has dedicated his life to improving the lives of people not only in his district, but across our entire state and country. I’ve had the honor of fighting alongside Dan both in the House and Senate to support our nation’s veterans and small businesses, lift up middle-class families, and ensure every American has access to safe drinking water. I wish him the very best and know that he will carry that compassion and commitment to the public good in whatever he chooses to do next.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-at-senator-peters-urging-senate-unanimously-approves-his-armenian-protection-act,"At Senator Peters’ Urging, Senate Unanimously Approves His Armenian Protection Act",2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The Senate has unanimously passed U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ (MI) bipartisan legislation – the Armenian Protection Act – which would prevent the U.S. from providing security assistance to Azerbaijan for two years. Senator Peters introduced the legislation in September in response to the Azerbaijani government’s ongoing attacks on ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh. This effort came after Peters visited the Armenia-Azerbaijan border and viewed firsthand the 10-month long blockade of the Lachin corridor that has caused a humanitarian crisis for Armenians in the region. On the Senate floor, Peters delivered remarks calling on his colleagues to pass the legislation.

“We must send a strong message and show our partners around the world that America will enforce the conditions that we attach to military aid,” said Senator Peters, Chairman of the Homeland Security Committee and member of the Armed Services Committee. “If we do not take action when countries willfully ignore the terms of our agreements with them, our agreements will become effectively meaningless and toothless. I urge my colleagues to join me in holding Azerbaijan accountable for their actions, enforce our agreements with them, and stand with the Armenian people in the face of unprovoked aggression.”

To watch video of Senator Peters’ remarks on the Senate floor, click here or on the image below.

Senator Peters’ Armenian Protection Act – which he introduced with U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) – would end U.S. assistance to the Azerbaijani government that is currently allowed under a waiver to Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act. Although the Freedom Support Act generally prohibits most bilateral assistance to Azerbaijan, following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, waiver authority was added to Section 907 granting additional discretion to the President to provide aid to Azerbaijan. The waiver authority has been invoked annually by Presidents of both parties since 2002 and the Biden Administration is still reviewing its waiver authority for 2023.

“We commend Senator Peters along with Senator Rubio for this bipartisan legislation,” stated Congressional Relations Director for the Armenian Assembly of America Mariam Khaloyan. “Passage of this bill sends a strong message in the face of Azerbaijan’s genocidal policies against the Armenian people.”

Peters also recently joined a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers calling for the U.S. Treasury Department and U.S. State Department to impose sanctions on certain Azerbaijani government officials associated with the military attacks against – and brutal blockade of – Nagorno-Karabakh. A copy of the letter can be found here.

Peters has previously raised concerns regarding the Azerbaijani military attacks on the Armenian people and has continued to advocate for additional U.S. action to help restore peace in the region. Following his visit to Armenia in September, Peters gave a speech on the Senate floor condemning the Azerbaijani government’s military aggression and violence toward Armenia and called on the U.S. to stand behind the Armenian people.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-modernize-trucking-industry-and-reduce-emissions,Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Modernize Trucking Industry and Reduce Emissions,2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today introduced the bipartisan Supporting Trucking Efficiency and Emission Reductions (STEER) Act, a bill that would create a Department of Energy (DOE) voucher program to assist truckers in purchasing and installing fuel-saving, emission-reducing technologies on their trucks. Specifically, the voucher program would cover costs associated with adopting fuel-efficient technologies on Class 8 trucks, significantly reducing the up-front cost of materials and installation.

“The trucking industry is a vital part of our economy, and it’s critical that we take steps to help make these vehicles more environmentally-friendly and cost-effective,” said Senator Peters. “The STEER Act is a commonsense solution that will help us modernize the trucking industry, reduce emissions, and create jobs.”

The STEER Act would provide vouchers to truckers who install fuel-efficient technologies on their trucks, such as aerodynamic improvements, tire pressure monitoring systems, and waste heat recovery systems. These technologies can reduce fuel consumption by up to 15% and can cut national fuel consumption by 4.5 billion gallons a year, saving truckers money and reducing emissions.

“The bipartisan STEER Act is an important bill that achieves two goals simultaneously. The legislation will have an immediate, dramatic reduction on carbon emissions for the current generation of diesel trucks, while also speeding up the transition to tomorrow's alternative fuel vehicles through an investment in American technologies. By gaining better aerodynamics, trucks can increase range while also lowering emissions, helping truckers and fleets save time, fuel and money. This legislation is a true win-win-win for the trucking industry, the environment, and the American economy and I congratulate Senator Peters and Senator Ricketts for their leadership on this issue,” said Daniel Burrows, founder and CEO of TruckLabs.

“The ICCT is very encouraged to see the STEER Act advancing through the legislative process in Congress. This voucher program for trucking fleets can accelerate market penetration of emission reducing technologies for trucks by creating a program to significantly reduce the up-front cost of installing these technologies. This legislation can help enable the trucking industry to cost-effectively install these systems on both new and existing trucks. Perhaps the most attractive aspect of this program is that the technologies can have energy and emissions savings benefits no matter what the truck is powered by – be it diesel, natural gas, or even electricity. The STEER Act is a clear win for both industry and the environment, and we look forward to hopefully seeing it fully enacted very soon,” said Ben Sharpe, a regional lead at the International Council on Clean Transportation.

The STEER Act is supported by a broad coalition of industry and environmental groups, including the North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE), International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions (CRES), Clean Fuels Alliance America, Western Express, Covenant Logistics, Hexagon Agility, TruckLabs, Aperia Technologies, and Derive Systems.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/scholten-votes-fund-government-and-avoid-shutdown,Scholten Votes to Fund the Government and Avoid Shutdown,2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) issued the below statement after voting for a two-step continuing resolution to fund the government at Fiscal Year 2023 levels and avoid a shutdown:

“I’m glad Speaker Johnson finally dropped the politics and met Democrats at the table to avoid a disastrous government shutdown. The resolution honors the spending agreement we made back in May when we raised the debt ceiling and leaves out extreme Republican wish list items that never would have become law.

My West Michigan neighbors can breathe a sigh of relief ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, but the culture of deep division and chaos in this Congress is forcing us to legislate under the tyranny of the urgent— preventing us from working toward the pragmatic approach to legislating that this country deserves.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-increase-support-for-victims-of-human-trafficking,Senate Passes Peters Bipartisan Bill to Increase Support for Victims of Human Trafficking,2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to enhance the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) ability to combat human trafficking. The legislation would make permanent and expand the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Victim Assistance Program that helps provide support to individuals impacted by human trafficking. The bill would also improve and make permanent an existing program that ensures the wellbeing of HSI employees and partners who are exposed to repeated stress and associated trauma through their work to support victims and investigate these horrific crimes.

“The federal government must increase support for victims of human trafficking and ensure that Homeland Security Investigations agents and others who work with these victims have the resources they need to effectively do their jobs,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan bill will bolster DHS’ ability to stop these horrific crimes and ensure that Department employees are better prepared to fight back against human traffickers.”

Thousands of men, women, and children are trafficked in the United States. According to DHS, traffickers might use violence, manipulation, or false promises of jobs or romantic relationships to lure victims into trafficking situations. Based on calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, the Polaris Project found that in 2020 there were at least 16,658 sex trafficking victims and survivors in the United States. However, the actual number of these crimes may be much larger because these crimes often go unreported. Peters’ legislation will provide increased resources and support to these victims, as well as HSI employees and partners who work to bring them recovery, stabilization, and justice.

The IMPACTT Human Trafficking Act would make permanent the Investigators Maintain Purposeful Awareness to Combat Trafficking Trauma (IMPACTT) program within HSI that provides outreach and training to investigators, forensic interviewers, victim assistance specialists, task force officers, and other partners who have been exposed to trauma while working with victims of human trafficking. The legislation would require HSI to provide training, through the program, to these employees on available resources to help cope with burnout, compassion fatigue, and trauma. The bill also makes permanent and expands the HSI Victim Assistance Program that provides guidance on victim assistance, including training and technical assistance, and monitors compliance with federal crime victim statutes. The bill increases the number of Victim Assistant Specialists to ensure every office participating in a human trafficking or child exploitation task force will have an assigned Victim Assistant Specialist. The legislation also ensures that victims are provided with referrals for support services throughout the investigative and prosecutorial process.

As Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has helped improve the federal government’s ability to combat human trafficking. Peters’ legislation to increase coordination between Department of Homeland Security components and the Blue Campaign, a national public awareness effort designed to educate law enforcement and the public to recognize human trafficking, was signed into law as a part of the fiscal year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act. His legislation to make permanent and strengthen DHS’ Center for Countering Human Trafficking was also signed into law.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-usda-purchase-of-michigan-apples,"Peters, Stabenow Announce USDA Purchase of Michigan Apples",2023-11-13,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will buy $60 million in fresh apples and $40 million in processed apples from Michigan farmers. These apples will then be distributed to food banks, school meal programs, and other programs across the country.

Michigan is the nation’s third-largest producer of apples, with more than 14.9 million apple trees covering 34,500 acres across 775 family farms. Senators Peters and Stabenow urged the USDA to buy from Michigan farmers to help farmers with their surpluses from last year and this year’s harvest.

“After advocating for this commonsense solution, I’m happy to announce that USDA is making a $100 million purchase of Michigan apples to take advantage of the surplus that our growers have experienced in recent years,” said Senator Peters. “Not only will this move protect businesses and workers throughout the state, it will help provide nutrition to folks in need around the country.”

“Michigan farmers are the best in the world! We are one of the most agriculturally diverse states and one of the nation’s largest producers of apples. Because record-breaking crops and a significant surplus of apples is threatening to destabilize the market for farmers on orchards across Michigan, I urged the USDA to buy the apples they need from Michigan farmers. This will help our Michigan farmers and provide healthy, Michigan-grown apples to food programs across the country. That’s a win-win,” said Senator Stabenow.

“Michigan apple growers produced a record crop for the second year in a row, which has been estimated to be larger than 2022,” said Michigan Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Association General Manager Dan Drake. “Our apple industry was challenged with carryover of raw product from the 2022 apple crop in addition to retail sales of fresh and finished product being down. USDA has been a great partner to Michigan’s apple industry, and we are grateful the Secretary approved our request for processed apple products and US Apple’s efforts in securing the fresh purchase. We also are very appreciative of Chairwoman Stabenow’s and Senator Peters’efforts in helping to get the purchase over the finish line.”

This announcement follows a letter from Peters and Stabenow urging USDA to support apple growers through a Section 32 purchase. The average Michigan apple crop is about 24 million bushels, but a record-breaking 2022 crop exceeding 32 million bushels and a significant surplus threatened the fragile supply chain for the 2023 harvest.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-correct-retirement-error-for-customs-and-border-protection-officers,Senate Passes Peters Bipartisan Bill to Correct Retirement Error for Customs and Border Protection Officers,2023-11-13,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to ensure U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers (CBPOs) can receive the retirement benefits they were promised when starting their service has passed the Senate. The bill corrects a mistake where Customs and Border Protection (CBP) incorrectly informed newly hired CBPOs that they would be eligible for proportional annuity, which means they would not have to retire at a certain age or reach 20 years of service to qualify for an enhanced retirement benefit. However, when CBP realized their error – more than ten years after these officers had started their service – they rescinded these benefits and will now require around 1200 officers, including 67 in Michigan, to meet additional requirements to receive the benefits they were initially promised when starting the job more than a decade ago. This has significantly impacted CBPOs’ ability to properly plan for their futures and ensure they can retire comfortably with the benefits they expected. Peters introduced similar legislation that advanced in the Senate last Congress.

“Dedicated Customs and Border Protection officers should not have their futures disrupted due to a clerical error that happened over a decade ago,” said Senator Peters. “My bipartisan bill will ensure these brave officers – who tirelessly protect our communities each and every day – have the retirement benefits they were promised when they first started their service.”

The CPBO Retirement Corrections Act would direct CBP to identify eligible individuals and notify them of the correction. Those impacted would then be eligible for a correction that would align their retirement benefits with the coverage they were promised. The legislation also includes a retroactive annuity adjustment for eligible individuals who retire before the date of enactment of this bill and grants the Department of Homeland Security the authority to waive maximum entry age requirements for eligible officers.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/videopeters-convenes-hearing-to-examine-the-philosophy-of-ai-and-what-it-means-for-humanity,VIDEO: Peters Convenes Hearing to Examine the Philosophy of AI and What it Means for Humanity,2023-11-13,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, convened a hearing to examine how the transformative potential of artificial intelligence will impact our society with expert witnesses who study the intersection of AI and economics, philosophy, history, and constitutional law. The hearing highlighted the lessons learned from past periods of great technological change, like the Industrial Revolution, to know how we can use AI in a way that builds a better future for humanity. The witnesses discussed the importance of having a framework in place to ensure this technological innovation will transform our world for the better while anticipating and addressing the potential harms that could occur.

“Artificial intelligence has already begun to reshape the fabric of our society. Our response cannot come through piecemeal policy alone, or isolated technological ‘fixes.’ It must include a deeper examination of our history, our democracy, and our values, and how we want this technology to shape our future,” said Peters during his opening remarks. “We must look to the past and learn the lessons of previous technological revolutions. We must answer the ethical questions that A.I. poses and use these new technologies to build a world where humans can thrive. And we must protect our civil liberties and democratic institutions against the risks that these tools can pose.”

To watch video of Senator Peters’ opening remarks, click here. For text of Peters’ opening remarks as prepared, click here.

To watch video of Senator Peters’ questions, click here.

During the hearing, Peters and the witnesses discussed the need to create incentives for the private sector to ensure AI is being developed in a way that prioritizes responsibility and protects our democratic institutions against the risks that these tools can pose. Dr. Vallor discussed the need to use human values to guide the development of AI to ensure biases are not reflected in this technology. Dr. Acemoglu and Professor Hu went on to describe the importance of staying ahead of the curve in AI development by ensuring there are guardrails and laws in place to safeguard Americans’ civil rights and civil liberties. The witnesses further emphasized the importance of approaching this technology with the anticipation that it can have great benefits to society, but cautioned against expecting technology to solve societal problems without the guidance of human wisdom and responsibility. Peters and witnesses agreed that an inter-disciplinary approach to AI is critical to ensure AI benefits all Americans.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-recognize-the-service-of-hmong-veterans-during-vietnam-war,Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Recognize the Service of Hmong Veterans During Vietnam War,2023-11-10,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation – the Hmong Congressional Gold Medal Act – to recognize the distinguished service of the Hmong veterans who served alongside American troops in the Vietnam War by awarding them a Congressional Gold Medal.

As the Vietnam War spread south and west into Laos, the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) recruited and trained Hmong men to help American troops fight back against the communist North Vietnamese and Pathet Lao. At great risk to the safety of themselves and their families, Hmong soldiers fought the ground war, flew combat missions, gathered intelligence on North Vietnamese troop movements, interrupted the Ho-Chi-Min Supply Trail, and rescued American pilots downed behind enemy lines. The Hmong people suffered heavy casualties, and their soldiers died at a rate ten times as high as that of American soldiers in Vietnam.

“More than 30,000 Hmong soldiers courageously stood with the American people during the Vietnam War, many of whom lost their lives in the fight against communism,” said Senator Peters. “This bill seeks to provide long-overdue recognition to Hmong veterans for their incredible sacrifices and distinguished service.”

Following the war, many Hmong were displaced from their villages as they were either bombed or burned down by the North Vietnamese and over 150,000 Hmong fled Laos when the nation fell to communist forces in 1975. Due to their ties with the American military, many Hmong came to the United States as refugees to start a new life. Over the ensuing decades, Hmong populations and their traditions have become engrained in communities in Michigan and across the United States. Currently, there are over 327,000 Hmong living in the United States, including approximately 7,000 in Michigan.

Peters is committed to supporting all of our nation’s servicemembers and veterans. In 2021, Peters was inducted into the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor for his efforts to support our nation’s veterans and military. In 2017, Peters was recognized as Legislator of the Year by the Vietnam Veterans of America for authoring the bipartisan Fairness for Veterans Act, which was signed into law. The legislation requires veteran discharge review boards to give liberal consideration to petitions for honorable discharge status if the servicemember has been diagnosed with PTSD, TBI or other related conditions connected to their military service. As of the fall of 2020, more than 1,500 veterans have had their discharges upgraded since his legislation was enacted.

Earlier this year, Peters introduced legislation ensures military families can continue to be laid to rest together in VA national cemeteries. Last year, Peters helped enact into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act – which delivered VA health care and benefits to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans – and their survivors – for the first time in our nation’s history. Peters also previously introduced bipartisan legislation to protect veterans exposed to toxic chemicals during their service. The Burn Pits Accountability Act would require that servicemembers be assessed for exposure to open toxic burn pits as part of their routine health exams, as this exposure has been known to lead to cancer, cardiovascular toxicity, reproductive issues and neurological damage for numerous Afghanistan and Iraq War veterans.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-honoring-veterans-day,Peters Statement Honoring Veterans Day,2023-11-10,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and the son of a World War II veteran, today released the following statement in recognition of Veterans Day:

“From the Revolutionary War to modern day conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, generations of Michigan veterans have served our country with honor and distinction. On Veterans Day, we pay tribute to the service of America’s soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines who answered the call to defend our nation and our way of life, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”

“Today, as we reflect on their service and steadfast dedication, we must continue striving to fulfill the promises made to the courageous servicemembers – and their families – by supporting their transition to civilian life through access to quality health care, higher education, meaningful professional opportunities and a dignified burial.”

Peters has made veterans’ issues one of his top priorities in the Senate. This week, Peters announced bipartisan legislation with Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) to expand federal infrastructure contracting opportunities for service connected disabled veterans. He has also introduced a bipartisan bill with Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) to increase funeral benefits for eligible veterans. In 2016, President Obama signed into law bipartisan Peters’ bipartisan provisions to help veterans who have been diagnosed with PTSD, TBI and other service-related conditions to upgrade their discharge status.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-calls-congressional-leadership-fund-child-care-west-michigan,Rep. Scholten Calls on Congressional Leadership to Fund Child Care for West Michigan Families,2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) joined a bicameral group of her colleagues in urging Congressional leadership to renew expired funding for child care in any supplemental funding package. Without this funding, many child care providers are struggling with how they’re going to continue to operate and serve families. The letter comes after President Biden’s supplemental funding request to Congress included $16 billion to address the child care crisis.

“We write today to urge you to include robust funding for child care in any supplemental funding package considered by the Appropriations Committee. Child care is unaffordable and hard to find for working families, and child care providers across the country are struggling to stay afloat,” wrote the lawmakers.

“The child care workforce has been one of the slowest sectors to recover from the pandemic, and wages for this critical workforce remain unacceptably low, further fueling the shortage of available child care options for families,”the members continued. “Families and child care providers are feeling increasingly squeezed following the expiration of COVID-19 relief funding for child care, as child care providers scramble to fill the gap in resources previously filled by federal funds.”

The lawmakers wrote, “It is essential that as supplemental funding to meet emergency needs is considered, Congress take action to address the child care crisis. We have an urgent need to further stabilize an industry that has been long underfunded, and Congress must provide robust funding for this sector through a supplemental package.”

A copy of the letter is available here.

Full text of the letter is available below:

Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Chair Murray, and Vice Chair Collins:

We write today to urge you to include robust funding for child care in any supplemental funding package considered by the Appropriations Committee. Child care is unaffordable and hard to find for working families, and child care providers across the country are struggling to stay afloat. We are extremely concerned that this crisis will continue to worsen following the expiration of the Child Care Stabilization Grants provided under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), vital funding that sustained an estimated 220,000 child care providers, saved an estimated 9.6 million child care slots, and maintained more than 1 million child care jobs. President Biden acknowledged this urgent issue by requesting significant funding for child care in his domestic supplemental appropriations request to Congress.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress took important steps to protect the child care industry from collapse by delivering historic funding in the economic relief packages passed. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provided the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) with $3.5 billion, the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act provided $10 billion in dedicated relief, and ARPA provided $15 billion for CCDBG and $24 billion for the stabilization grants. On September 30, 2023, the majority of this vital funding expired.

Prior to the pandemic, the child care system was already in a crisis. In 2018, over 50 percent of counties in the United States were considered a child care desert – an area in which the demand for child care is far more than the supply. The broken child care market has resulted in an impossible tension between families, workers, and providers: child care providers cannot afford to run their businesses or pay adequate wages to their staff using revenue from parents alone, while child care costs are unaffordable and unsustainable for working families. For years, the situation has been far worse for families with low incomes, families of color, and families seeking infant and toddler care, care for children with disabilities, and care during non-traditional hours.

The child care workforce has been one of the slowest sectors to recover from the pandemic, and wages for this critical workforce remain unacceptably low, further fueling the shortage of available child care options for families. As of September 2023, the child care industry was missing more than 38,400 workers compared to pre-pandemic levels, and at the rate that child care jobs have been regained in 2023 so far, it could take almost 12 months—until September 2024—for the child care sector to recover pandemic-related job losses. This threatens America’s economic stability and competitiveness. It is estimated that the lack of child care costs our economy $122 billion in lost earnings, productivity, and revenue annually.

Families and child care providers are feeling increasingly squeezed following the expiration of COVID-19 relief funding for child care, as child care providers scramble to fill the gap in resources previously filled by federal funds. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that child care prices increased 1.7% in September 2023, while the Consumer Price Index for all items rose by only 0.2% over the same period. Child care providers in communities across the country are at risk of closure. Already, local news outlets are sharing stories about communities losing child care providers as 43 in Kansas and seven programs serving 300 children in North Carolina have closed following the loss of pandemic-era funding and supports.

Due to your continued support, the fiscal year (FY) 2023 appropriations process yielded a total of $8 billion for CCDBG, which represented a 30 percent increase from FY 2022 funding. We also appreciate that you were able to provide a $700 million increase for CCDBG in the Senate’s proposed FY 2024 spending bill. However, we understand that you are limited on discretionary spending with the passage of the Fiscal Responsibility Act in June. So, it is essential that as supplemental funding to meet emergency needs is considered, Congress take action to address the child care crisis. We have an urgent need to further stabilize an industry that has been long underfunded, and Congress must provide robust funding for this sector through a supplemental package.

The child care stabilization relief funds provided a much-needed lifeline to the child care industry, but it is crucial that, at minimum, we sustain that level of investment to ensure the industry’s survival and prevent a new emergency. Our providers, workers, children, and families need your help. We urge you to utilize every possible tool to provide a robust investment to address the growing child care crisis. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-new-dem-coalition-members-urge-congressional-leadership-fully,"Rep. Scholten, New Dem Coalition Members Urge Congressional Leadership to Fully Fund the Affordable Connectivity Program",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03), a member of the New Democrat Coalition, joined 72 New Dems in writing a letter to Congressional leadership urging both chambers to include funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) that is consistent with the President’s emergency supplemental appropriations request in any upcoming government funding package.

Enacted as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law championed by New Dems last Congress, the ACP currently provides broadband subsidies to more than 21 million households across the country. With funding for this program set to run out as soon as early 2024, it is crucial that Congress works to keep broadband affordable for millions of families who benefit from this program.

The letter reads in part: “Congress has recognized, on a bipartisan basis, that every American must be connected to the internet to prosper and compete in a 21st century economy. We cannot risk millions of families losing access to the internet service they depend on every day by allowing the ACP to lapse. We stand with the Biden Administration in recognizing the ACP as a critical need for American families and a priority for our country.”

You can read the full letter here and below:

Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Speaker Johnson and Minority Leader Jefferies,

As members of the New Democrat Coalition, we write to advocate for the inclusion of $6 billion in additional funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) in any government funding package, to reflect the President’s Fiscal Year 2024 emergency supplemental funding request. The ACP provides critical financial assistance to help American households afford broadband internet services. Access to high-speed and affordable broadband is vital to participating in our 21st-century economy. Communities without sufficient internet connectivity struggle to keep pace in a rapidly changing world increasingly dependent on technology. The New Democrat Coalition is committed to closing this digital divide and the ACP is a necessary tool to accomplish this goal.

Established in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the ACP currently provides broadband subsidies to more than 21 million households throughout the country. The program has had great success as millions of families who previously could not get online or struggled to pay for broadband access are now connected to the internet. By helping to secure broadband access, the ACP has allowed millions of Americans to maximize educational opportunities, increase telehealth opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and connect with loved ones.

At the current rate of enrollment, the ACP’s funding will be exhausted as imminently as early next year. Failure to renew funding for the ACP would once again make low-cost broadband internet service unaffordable for millions of families, resulting in a significant loss of internet connectivity nationwide. This would be a significant step backwards in the progress Congress has made to connect more Americans to the internet through additional federal broadband investments.

The loss of the ACP would also reduce the efficacy of Congress’ groundbreaking $42 billion investment in the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. A recent study found that the ACP reduces the subsidy amount needed to incentivize broadband deployment in rural areas by 25 percent per-household.1 The ACP is necessary to maximize BEAD program dollars intended to build out our nation’s broadband infrastructure and ensure that no community gets left behind.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/state-local-leaders-join-thanedar-for-listening-session-and-washington-update,"State, Local Leaders Join Thanedar for Listening Session and Washington Update",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Shri Thanedar,T000488,thanedar.house.gov,thanedar,https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Detroit, MI – This week, Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13) hosted a breakfast for dozens of state and local elected officials in Detroit to hear what issues are at the top of their minds and to provide and update on developments in Washington, D.C. as well as the full range of services his office offers.

“The most important thing in my office is to be responsive to my constituents and the local leaders in our community,” said Congressman Thanedar. “During the course of the breakfast, I was able to update officials about the pending shutdown, President Biden’s proposed funding package for Israel and Ukraine, and the billions of dollars we’re bringing back to the district through Community Project Funding and other revenue streams.”

In addition to his work on federal legislation in Washington, Congressman Thanedar outlined the process through which his 22 staff members, including fellows and interns, have directly helped nearly 1,000 constituents since he took office in January. Constituent case workers in the Congressman’s Detroit office start working on cases within 48 hours. Congressman Thanedar’s office has resolved 88% of the cases received and returned almost $650,000 owed to constituents by federal agencies. Staffers are standing by to help constituents secure help with passports, the IRS, Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs, Social Security, immigration issues, and many other federal agencies.

“I believe I have the hardest working staff in Congress,” continued Thanedar. “When community members come in with a problem or issue with a federal agency, I guarantee that they are going to receive quick, personal service to get them the help they need as soon as possible.”

“It was a pleasure meeting all of the Congressman’s staff and learning how each one can assist Wyandotte. It’s helpful to understand how his office works as we prepare and pursue more projects, which will only be possible the Congressman’s help,” said Mayor Robert DeSana from the City of Wyandotte

“This breakfast was an engaging opportunity for me to hear directly from the Congressman about the status of the passing of the budget and relevant information on federal funding coming back to the district,” said Grosse Pointe Farms Councilwoman Sierra Donaven.

Attendees at the breakfast included officials from Allen Park, Dearborn Heights, Detroit, Ecorse, Grosse Pointe, Grosse Pointe Farms, Grosse Pointe Woods, Hamtramck, Harper Woods, Highland Park, River Rouge, Romulus, Wyandotte, and Wayne County.

Constituents needing help from the Congressman’s office can visit thandar.house.gov, call (313) 880-2400, or visit his offices at 400 Monroe St. in Detroit during business hours.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-urges-biden-administration-to-include-polysilicon-in-semiconductor-manufacturing-tax-credit,Peters Urges Biden Administration to Include Polysilicon in Semiconductor Manufacturing Tax Credit,2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) joined Michigan’s Democratic congressional delegation in urging U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to ensure the proper implementation of the CHIPS and Science Act in order to support new jobs and economic growth in Michigan.

The CHIPS and Science Act included a 25% advanced manufacturing tax credit, commonly known as 48D, to expand semiconductor manufacturing in America. The members’ letter to Secretary Yellen asks that semiconductor-grade polysilicon—the base material needed to make advanced semiconductor chips—be included in tax incentives to help boost U.S. manufacturing of semiconductors and their components and create new, good-paying American jobs. The U.S. Department of Treasury is responsible for writing implementation guidance on what would be eligible for the tax credit and it is currently drafting that guidance.

The CHIPS and Science Act is already helping to bring critical semiconductor manufacturing to Michigan and the U.S., including at manufacturing facilities like SK Siltron and Hemlock Semiconductor. Hemlock Semiconductor is just one of six companies worldwide that produces hyper-pure polysilicon for semiconductors.

“As Members of Congress who helped carefully craft key provisions and proudly supported passage of the CHIPS and Science Act, we are committed to ensuring this historic law meets the primary policy objectives of onshoring semiconductor production in America. A critical component of meeting that objective is maintaining and expanding U.S. leadership in hyper-pure polysilicon production,” the members wrote.

“We appreciated the President’s virtual participation at a celebration of the CHIPS and Science Act at Hemlock Semiconductor Company, where he heralded the bill’s passage as a boon for domestic semiconductor production. To ensure this becomes a reality, we strongly urge Treasury to incorporate semiconductor-grade polysilicon production as an eligible activity under the 48D advanced manufacturing investment tax credit in its final rulemaking,” they continued.

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

Secretary Yellen:

We write to urge the U.S. Department of the Treasury to pursue an inclusive CHIPS and Science Act implementation that allows for semiconductor-grade polysilicon production to be eligible for the 48D advanced manufacturing investment tax credit. This is imperative to ensuring that U.S. manufacturers maintain a technological advantage in producing the highest quality polysilicon, the semiconductive material in 99.5 percent of semiconductor chips.

High quality semiconductor-grade polysilicon is typically produced at purity levels greater than eleven nines (99.999999999%). Its production is a highly complex and technologically sophisticated process that is extremely capital intensive. At present, of the six companies that produce the material worldwide, Michigan-based Hemlock Semiconductor Company is the only U.S.-headquartered producer of this hyper-pure polysilicon.

As Members of Congress who helped carefully craft key provisions and proudly supported passage of the CHIPS and Science Act, we are committed to ensuring this historic law meets the primary policy objectives of onshoring semiconductor production in America. A critical component of meeting that objective is maintaining and expanding U.S. leadership in hyper-pure polysilicon production. This will only be possible if hyper-pure polysilicon producers are able to utilize the 48D tax credit in addition to the CHIPS for America Fund – in line with Congressional intent.

We know that President Biden recognizes the important role that polysilicon plays in chip production. We appreciated the President’s virtual participation at a celebration of the CHIPS and Science Act at Hemlock Semiconductor Company, where he heralded the bill’s passage as a boon for domestic semiconductor production. To ensure this becomes a reality, we strongly urge Treasury to incorporate semiconductor-grade polysilicon production as an eligible activity under the 48D advanced manufacturing investment tax credit in its final rulemaking.

Thank you for your consideration and attention to this matter. We look forward to working with you to grow our economy and improve our supply chains.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-statement-censure-colleagues,Rep. Scholten Statement on Censure of Colleagues,2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) issued the below statement ahead of votes on motions to censure one Democratic colleague and one Republican colleague:

“This week, the House will vote on motions to censure two of my colleagues – a Democratic colleague from Michigan, and a Republican colleague from Florida.

As a constitutional attorney, I have always defended the right to freedom of speech and will continue to do so–despite my personal views of the words of others. The freedom of speech is foundational to our country and protected rigorously throughout the Constitution. It’s important to protect it when we agree with the speech being expressed, even more so when we disagree.

But, just as my colleagues facing censure have a right to express their views, I have a right to express mine, and I have—condemning anti-Semitism and Islamophobia alike when they rear their heads in our community and in Congress. Despite my strong disagreement with both of my colleagues’ statements, that is not a reason for censure.

I will be voting against these motions. I will continue to vote against these motions as they are brought against Republicans and Democrats alike. These censures are a waste of time and a distraction from the People’s business.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/scholten-leads-colleagues-condemning-use-anti-semitic-phrase,Scholten Leads Colleagues in Condemning Use of Anti-Semitic Phrase,2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) led dozens of her colleagues in issuing the below statement condemning the use of the anti-Semitic phrase, “from the river to the sea,” affirming Israel’s right to defend itself, and calling for a humanitarian pause to help save innocent life in Gaza:

“We reject the use of the phrase “from the river to the sea”— a phrase used by many, including Hamas, as a rallying cry for the destruction of the State of Israel and genocide of the Jewish people. We all feel deep anguish for the human suffering caused by the war in Gaza. Hamas started this war with a barbaric terrorist attack on October 7, 2023, and neither the Palestinian nor Israeli people can have peace as long as Hamas still rules over Gaza and threatens Israel.

This war is tragic and deeply painful for everyone, especially those who identify with the land and the people—Christians, Jews, and Muslims alike. Every civilian killed, every family torn apart, Palestinian and Israeli, is a tragedy. Every human being deserves dignity and respect, and each of us must do all we can to always see the humanity of the innocent people caught in the middle of this war.

We support Israel’s right and obligation to defend itself — to protect its citizens, secure its borders, and rescue its people held hostage in Gaza. Israel also has the obligation to, as best as possible, protect civilians, and in all its actions adhere to international humanitarian law (notwithstanding Hamas’ complete disregard for the same).

We also recognize the desperate needs of the civilians in Gaza, and fully support doing everything possible to expand safe zones, provide transit corridors, and deliver life-sustaining humanitarian aid. A humanitarian pause of limited space and time, the release of the more than 240 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, the cessation of rockets fired by Hamas at Israel from civilian neighborhoods in Gaza, and the release of all Palestinian civilians being detained by Hamas as human shields in Gaza would go far toward achieving these goals.

We are grateful for President Biden’s extraordinary leadership, for his steadfast support of our ally Israel, and for his unwavering commitment to pursuing a lasting solution to the conflict.”

Since coming to Congress, Rep. Scholten – a member of the Abraham Accords Caucus – has co-sponsored several pieces of legislation to support our democratic ally, Israel – including the U.S.-Israel Partnership and Abraham Accords Enhancement Act, a resolution acknowledging the special relationship between the U.S. and Israel and affirms the U.S’ support for Israeli democracy, and a resolution to condemn Hamas terrorism and reaffirm Israel’s right to defend itself following the terrorist organization’s deadly attack in early October.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-shri-thanedar-calls-for-a-72-hour-humanitarian-pause,Rep. Shri Thanedar Calls for a 72 Hour Humanitarian Pause,2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Shri Thanedar,T000488,thanedar.house.gov,thanedar,https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – November 7, 2023 – Today, I am calling on Israel to institute a 72-hour humanitarian pause to negotiate the release of the hostages held by Hamas and the surrender of Hamas leaders responsible for the October 7 attack. During this pause, President Biden should appoint a chief negotiator to bring all parties to the table. I can think of no one better than former President Barack Obama to lead these efforts. If, at the end of 72 hours, no sufficient progress has been made, Israel should resume its military operations with the goal of destroying Hamas while minimizing civilian casualties.

“There can be no question about Israel’s right to defend itself in the face of terrorist aggression. By calling for this humanitarian pause, however, we recognize that our ultimate goal is peace and safety for all innocent parties caught up in this conflict. If Israel extends this olive branch, it is essential that Hamas respond and show they are willing to do their part to de-escalate.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/during-national-diabetes-month-peters-reintroduces-bipartisan-bill-to-help-prevent-diabetes-and-lower-health-care-costs,"During National Diabetes Month, Peters Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill to Help Prevent Diabetes & Lower Health Care Costs",2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – During National Diabetes Month, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) reintroduced bipartisan legislation that would improve health outcomes and reduce health care costs for individuals at risk for diabetes, while saving long-term costs for Medicare. Peters’ Preventing Diabetes in Medicare Act – which he introduced with Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) – would extend Medicare coverage for medical nutrition therapy services to Americans with pre-diabetes and risk factors for developing type-2 diabetes. Under current law, Medicare will only cover medical nutrition therapy services for individuals who have already been diagnosed with diabetes or renal disease.

Diabetes is the most expensive chronic health condition in the country, with approximately one in every four Medicare dollars spent on diabetes-related care. Research released by the American Diabetes Association found that the total estimated cost of diagnosed diabetes was almost $413 billion, including more than $306 billion in direct medical costs. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 37 million Americans have diabetes and approximately 96 million adults have prediabetes. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reports approximately 912,800 or 11 percent of Michiganders over the age of 18 are living with diabetes.

“Expanding access to this type of health care will provide more Americans with the opportunity live longer, healthier lives, and without breaking the bank,” said Senator Peters. “It’s also a commonsense way to help lower Medicare costs for all taxpayers in the long-run, and I’ll keep fighting to get it passed and signed into law.”

“Approximately 96 million Americans have prediabetes, putting them at elevated risk for developing type 2 diabetes,” said Dr. LaShawn McIver, Senior Vice President at the American Diabetes Association. “The American Diabetes Association supports the Preventing Diabetes in Medicare Act, which would provide access for medical nutrition therapy to seniors with prediabetes, helping them lower their risk for type 2 diabetes and its dangerous complications.”

“On behalf of the Michigan Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, we support Senator Peters in reintroducing legislation to reduce health care costs and prevent diabetes,” said Past President of the Michigan Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Heather Dover, MS, RD. “Passage of this bill will significantly improve health outcomes by expanding coverage for medical nutrition therapy services to individuals with pre-diabetes and risk factors for developing type-2 diabetes.”

“This important legislation would allow Medicare beneficiaries to receive coverage of medical nutrition therapy for prediabetes, helping millions of Americans receive the services they need and reducing the large numbers of people who newly diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes each year,” said registered dietitian nutritionist Lauri Wright, past President of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. “The Academy commends U.S. Sens. Gary Peters and Shelley Moore Capito for reintroducing the Preventing Diabetes in Medicare Act in the Senate.”

The Preventing Diabetes in Medicare Act is supported by the American Diabetes Association, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Michigan Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists, the National Organization of Blacks in Dietetics, Latinos and Hispanics in Dietetics, National Kidney Foundation, Diabetes Leadership Council, Black Women’s Health Imperative, and Nutrition Member Interest Group.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-stabenow-announce-over-38-million-to-support-michigan-rural-communities,Peters & Stabenow Announce Over $38 Million to Support Michigan Rural Communities,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will award $38,460,630 to support rural communities across Michigan. Senators Peters and Stabenow secured these funds through both the Inflation Reduction Act and the bipartisan infrastructure law.

“Investing in our rural communities ensures that every Michigander has the opportunity to succeed,” said Senator Peters. “We worked hard to secure this funding, which will expand broadband service, support climate-smart agriculture and strengthen water infrastructure in rural communities across Michigan.”

“My hometown of Clare was a great place to grow up. I secured this funding for families in Clare and Michigan’s other small towns so they have the tools to run their businesses and farms,” said Senator Stabenow. “Additionally, when we invest in rural America, we aren’t just investing in the families who live there. This money will help our entire state succeed.

“The potato industry is hungry for grants that help them install renewable energy systems or make energy efficiency improvements in their operations. The more energy savings we can accumulate is directly related to reducing greenhouse gas emissions due to the decrease in overall power consumption, and thus opens the door for agriculture to play a large role in climate smart practices,” said Dr. Kelly Turner, Ed.D., CAE, Executive Director of the Michigan Potato Industry Commission.

“Michigan Apple growers have always been innovative and forward-thinking, and oftentimes early adopters of new technology. It comes as no surprise that Laketop Orchards, LLC is a recipient of this grant to purchase and install a roof-mounted solar photovoltaic system. MAC appreciates this grower family’s commitment to the future, not only saving dollars for their operation but also conserving energy. This effort positions them and Michigan’s Apple industry as leaders in agriculture technology and sustainability,” said Diane Smith, Executive Director of Michigan Apples.

“The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) has been a great tool for farmers looking to add value, reduce costs and provide energy efficiencies on their farms. We’re glad to see Michigan farmers participating in the program and partnering with USDA on these opportunities for our farms and rural communities. We appreciate Senator Debbie Stabenow and her colleagues for prioritizing REAP and other important programs,” said John Kran, National Legislative Counsel, Michigan Farm Bureau.

USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program will award 46 Michigan local businesses with $8,158,581 in grants. These funds will help farmers, producers, and rural business owners make energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy investments to lower energy costs, generate new income, and strengthen the resiliency of their operations. A list of all the recipients can be found here.

The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians will receive $3,742,293 to expand high-speed, affordable internet access to Chippewa Country residents. These funds were made possible by the USDA’s Rural Development Broadband ReConnect Program.

The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians will receive $20,359,756 to preserve and protect fisheries and wildlife populations in northwest lower Michigan. Newtrient LLC will receive $6,200,000 to help dairy farmers reduce their methane production. These funds are made possible by USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-stabenow-urge-biden-administration-to-require-insurers-to-fully-cover-over-the-counter-birth-control,Peters & Stabenow Urge Biden Administration to Require Insurers to Fully Cover Over-the-Counter Birth Control,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) joined 46 of their Senate colleagues in 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 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. “Given the increased need for access to contraception in the wake of the Dobbs decision, this issue is incredibly timely and important.”

Text of the letter can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/scholten-statement-speaker-johnsons-israel-supplemental-fails-meet-moment-adds,"Scholten Statement on Speaker Johnson’s Israel Supplemental that Fails to Meet the Moment, Adds Billions to Deficit",2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03) released the below statement after voting against Speaker Mike Johnson’s Israel supplemental, which did not include much-needed humanitarian assistance for the region, but did include an unprecedented “offset” in cuts to the Internal Revenue Service that will actually add at least $12.5B to the deficit in the next decade, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office:

“Just last week, more than 400 bipartisan members of the House came together to condemn Hamas and show our strong support for Israel, underscoring how united this body is in our support for our democratic ally. Instead of putting a bipartisan emergency Israel aid package on the floor, Speaker Johnson, in an unprecedented move, chose to prioritize an extreme Republican policy wish list item.

Not only that, this package fails to include much-needed humanitarian aid for innocent civilians in Israel and Gaza, and has no chance of becoming law. These theatrics are further delaying our ability to provide critical assistance during this time of crisis for our strong ally. This sends a false and dangerous signal that we are not committed to supporting our democratic partners around the world.

Also, of deep concern to me, as someone who prioritizes fiscal responsibility with our taxpayer resources, is that this bill ADDS $12.5B to the deficit. Republicans are showing once again that they need a math lesson–this is not a budget cut, it takes our deficit in the wrong direction.

Speaker Johnson needs to immediately work with Democrats in Congress and the White House on a package that meets this critical moment. The world is watching. We have no time to waste.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/scholten-helps-introduce-bipartisan-bill-protect-migrant-children-address,"Scholten Helps Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Migrant Children, Address Immigration Court Backlog",2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI) joined U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Reps. Dan Goldman (D-NY), Maria Salazar (R-FL), and Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR) in introducing legislation to combat the immigration court backlog and strengthen due process rights for unaccompanied migrant children.

“Let’s be clear about one thing–infants and children should not be in a situation where they have to stand trial in immigration court,” said Rep. Scholten. “We have a deeply broken immigration system in this country. But as we continue the long and complicated work for repairing it, of fighting for justice in a political climate that has grown callous to the suffering of children, the next best option is creating a court that works to accommodate their unique needs. As a mom, I’ll never stop fighting for these vulnerable kids.”

“Since joining the Senate, I’ve fought to reform our broken immigration system, keep our country safe, and protect innocent children who cross the border seeking asylum. This legislation will ensure kids fleeing violence and persecution are able to understand and participate in immigration court proceedings and are treated with the dignity, respect, and care they deserve,” said Senator Bennet.“This bipartisan, pragmatic legislation demonstrates that we can find common ground and repair our broken immigration system to uphold the rule of law and honor our country’s heritage.”

“The Biden Administration has failed on our Southern Border. Our country is facing nearly 3 million border crossings in 2023 and continued dysfunctional immigration policies. Each of these problems only exacerbate the severe backlog at our immigration courts and inhibit due process for individuals navigating the legal system. Unfortunately, these failures especially impact unaccompanied children, who are sometimes required to face a judge at their removal proceeding alone,” said Senator Murkowski. “No child should be left alone in court—and the United States of America can and should do better for vulnerable children. That’s why I cosponsored this commonsense effort that would enhance the efficiency of immigrant courts and due process for children—while also training judges on how to hold proceedings specific to minors. While we have a long way to go in addressing the many and significant problems with our immigration system, particularly in securing our borders, this effort takes real, pragmatic to ensure a more streamlined and appropriate process for vulnerable children.”

“We have an obligation to protect the children who arrive at our borders without their families, and it is vital that we make our immigration system easier for these young people to navigate,” said Rep. Goldman. “Children coming to the United States alone have often traveled hundreds of thousands of miles to escape extreme violence and other dangers. Far too often, these children are left alone to navigate a judicial system they do not understand, frequently in a language they don’t speak, and sometimes without a lawyer to represent them. A dedicated children’s court within our immigration system will allow us to tailor a complicated immigration system to a child’s needs and ensure they receive due process and essential assistance.”

“Children are often the greatest victims of our broken immigration system,” said Rep. Salazar. “We must do better to meet children’s needs while streamlining immigration court proceedings and making our courts more efficient. I’m proud to co-lead the Immigration Court Efficiency and Children’s Court Act to improve outcomes for children, families, and the American people in our backlogged immigration courts. And most importantly – keep them safe.”

Unaccompanied migrant children face unique obstacles as they navigate the complex U.S. immigration system. After they are placed into removal proceedings, many unaccompanied children appear alone before a judge in immigration court. Children’s cases are legally complex and often take longer than adult cases to hear. As a result, there are more than 62,000 pending unaccompanied children’s cases in the United States.

The bipartisan, bicameral Immigration Court Efficiency and Children’s Court Act is a common sense proposal to strengthen due process for vulnerable children and combat the immigration court backlog. The legislation would establish a Children’s Court within the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) focused on the adjudication of unaccompanied children’s removal proceedings.

The newly established Children’s Court would require:

Specially Trained Personnel: Children’s Immigration Court judges would receive special training on child trafficking, developmental and trauma-informed practice, and docket management tools.

Child Participation Protocols: The Children’s Court would ensure that children can easily attend court, actively engage in the process, and fully understand their rights to help overcome typical challenges in children’s proceedings. The bill would require that the Court utilize child-appropriate procedures to help ensure that children comprehend the proceedings, are treated appropriately for their developmental stage, and have sufficient time to secure counsel.

Coordination with Legal Services Organizations: Legal services organizations would coordinate with the Court to help children access legal screening and immigration proceedings at the same time and place to ensure that children obtain counsel faster and more efficiently. This approach reduces unnecessary time in court and can prevent procedural delays.

This legislation is supported by 40 organizations, including World Relief, National Immigration Forum, Church World Service, Women's Refugee Commission, American Immigration Lawyers Association, American Bar Association, and the Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network (RMIAN).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-helps-senate-pass-bipartisan-appropriations-package,Peters Helps Senate Pass Bipartisan Appropriations Package,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped the Senate pass a bipartisan package of appropriations bills with funding for key Michigan priorities, high-impact local projects, and federal programs. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Peters helped author the bipartisan funding package, which included three appropriations bills: the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs (VA) bill, the Agriculture and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) bill, and the Transportation and Housing bill.

“As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I worked hard to help draft these bills and ensure that funding for Michigan projects and priorities were included,” said Senator Peters. “Now that the Senate has passed this package in a bipartisan way, it’s critical the House follow suit and pass legislation to fund the government at the levels both chambers agreed to during the debt limit negotiations.”

The package includes $3 million in funding Peters secured through an amendment for a federal program he established with his Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act, which provides funding for facilities that harbor survivors of domestic violence and their pets. The legislation also includes funding for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) programs, veterans’ medical care and benefits, and investments to modernize critical military infrastructure and to establish new defense facilities in Michigan. The package also includes $2.4 million Peters secured for the construction of a facility for a tactical vehicle laboratory at the Army Ground Vehicle Systems Center in Warren, Michigan; $72 million for the construction of a Ground Transport Equipment Building at the Detroit Arsenal; and $24.5 million for new buildings at the Battle Creek Naval and Marine Corps Reserve Center (MCRC).

It includes investments in key transportation, workforce and housing initiatives, in addition to providing funding for rural airports and assistance for airports to transition away from using PFAS firefighting foam. The bill includes Peters-led provisions to help improve automobile safety and create a pathway to a regulatory framework for the development of autonomous vehicle (AV) technology in the United States. The legislation also includes assistance for agricultural research, funding to help combat specialty crop pests, and fully funds the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps provide food aid to approximately 1.3 million Michiganders. For a full list of provisions secured and supported by Peters that will benefit Michigan, click here.

The House of Representatives is considering its own appropriations bills in advance of the government funding deadline on November 17th.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-peters-amendment-securing-3-million-for-paws-act-grant-program-to-support-survivors-of-domestic-violence-and-their-pets,Senate Passes Peters Amendment Securing $3 Million for PAWS Act Grant Program to Support Survivors of Domestic Violence & Their Pets,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The Senate has passed a package of bipartisan government funding bills that includes U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ (MI) amendment to provide $3 million for a grant program that helps protect domestic violence survivors and their pets. Peters created the Emergency and Transitional Pet Shelter and Housing Assistance Grant Program through bipartisan legislation he authored into law in 2018 – called the Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act. This program provides funding for facilities that harbor survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence, along with their pets. Research has shown that domestic abusers often seek to manipulate or intimidate victims by threatening or harming their pets, however many domestic violence shelters are not equipped to accommodate pets.

“No person should ever have to choose between leaving an abusive relationship or staying and risking their safety in order to protect their pets,” said Senator Peters. “I fought to secure this $3 million in federal funds to ensure that facilities in Michigan and around the country can continue to have the support they need to provide safe havens not only for survivors, but their pets too.”

Since the grant program was first funded in 2020, there has consistently been high-demand from shelters for funding. However, without Peters’ efforts, the program would not have received federal funding for the upcoming year. Peters’ Senate-approved amendment secured $3 million in federal funding for the program for the upcoming Fiscal Year 2024. Peters is additionally leading the charge to reauthorize funding for the program at $3 million annually over five years, starting in Fiscal Year 2025, to ensure funding remains available. The legislation passed by the Senate also included federal funding for military construction, as well as the U.S. Departments of Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development. The House of Representatives must pass its own government funding bills before a final funding plan can be finalized between the two chambers.

The Emergency and Transitional Pet Shelter and Housing Assistance Grant Program created by Peters’ Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act helps ensure shelters and transitional housing services can accommodate victims of domestic violence and their companion animals. Research has found that up to 84 percent of women entering domestic violence shelters reported their partners had threatened, abused, or killed the family pet. Moreover, nearly half of survivors report having stayed with their abuser due to fear over what would happen to their pet. A 2007 study found that as many as one-third of domestic abuse survivors reportedly delayed leaving their abuser for an average of two years out of concern for the safety of their pet. Research has also indicated that domestic violence increased during the COVID-19 pandemic as a result of individuals being sheltered at home with abusive partners.

Peters’ PAWS Act also expands existing federal domestic violence protections to include threats or acts of violence against a survivor’s pet. The law additionally requires the full amount of the survivor’s losses for purposes of restitution in domestic violence and stalking offenses to include any costs incurred for veterinary services relating to physical care for the survivor’s pet.

The PAWS Act law is supported by a number of organizations, including the National Network to End Domestic Violence, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the Humane Society of the United States, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the Association of Prosecuting Attorneys, the National Link Coalition, the Sheltering Animals & Families Together (SAF-T) Program, the Animal Legal Defense Fund, the Animal Welfare Institute, RedRover, the National Animal Care & Control Association, the National District Attorneys Association, the American Veterinary Medical Association, YWCA USA, the American Kennel Club, the Fraternal Order of Police, and the National Sheriffs’ Association.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-peters-convenes-hearing-with-top-national-security-officials-to-examine-homeland-security-threats,VIDEO: Peters Convenes Hearing with Top National Security Officials to Examine Homeland Security Threats,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, convened an annual hearing with top national security and counterterrorism officials to examine evolving and persistent threats to homeland security. During the hearing, Peters raised concerns about how the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel is contributing to increased threats of violence in the United States, especially for Jewish, Arab and Muslim American communities. Peters and the witnesses also discussed what the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) are doing to address pressing national security threats, including international and domestic terrorism, cyber-attacks, fentanyl trafficking, weapons of mass destruction and rogue drones. DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas, FBI Director Christopher R. Wray, and NCTC Director Christine Abizaid testified before the committee.

“Today’s hearing is an important opportunity to discuss the wide range of threats facing our nation. I’m grateful that our top national security and law enforcement officials are here this morning to provide critical updates about what their agencies are doing to address threats to our homeland security,” said Peters during his opening remarks. “The full range of these threats, from terrorism, to drones, to a changing climate, pose a great danger to our communities. Our panel of witnesses will provide an essential perspective. They will help us understand what our agencies are doing to mitigate these national security threats, and what more Congress and the Administration can do to keep Americans safe.”

To watch video of Senator Peters’ opening remarks, click here. For text of Peters’ opening remarks as prepared, click here.

To watch video of Senator Peters’ questions, click here.

Due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, DHS and FBI have warned of an increase in violence, hate and harassment against Jewish, Muslim and Arab American communities and institutions. Peters highlighted the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which helps houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations, including faith-based organizations, protect themselves from potential attacks. Peters has called for $500 million in funding for the program, a significant increase, given the rising demand for these critical resources to help protect at-risk communities.

Peters also underscored the need to reauthorize and update multiple authorities that allow the DHS and FBI to counter threats posed by weapons of mass destruction and unmanned aircraft systems, as well as authorities needed to secure chemical facilities from potential terrorist activity. Peters and Mayorkas discussed the need to reauthorize the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) program, which lapsed in July, to ensure that facilities that house chemicals and other materials that could be used in attacks are required to continue working with DHS on critical security reviews. Peters introduced bipartisan legislation that would reauthorize the CFATS program and ensure the DHS has the resources it needs to prevent malicious actors from weaponizing chemicals. Peters also raised concerns about the threat posed by weapons of mass destruction, which have the potential to cause everything from mass casualties to agricultural destruction. The authorities that allow DHS to counter these threats are set to expire on December 21, 2023. Peters introduced and passed out of committee bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and strengthen DHS’s Office of Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD).

Peters also raised the threat of attacks using unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), more commonly known as drones, on large public gatherings such as major sporting events, airports, and critical infrastructure facilities. As security incidents related to drones become more common, Peters asked Wray and Mayorkas about the need to extend and update authorities that are at risk of expiring soon that allow FBI and DHS to take down threatening drones. Wray noted that if these authorities are allowed to expire, the FBI would not be able to protect large-scale sites and events – like the Super Bowl – from malicious drones. Peters introduced bipartisan legislation that would extend the critical authorities needed to combat these threats.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-joins-letter-calling-swift-consideration-administrations-border,Rep. Scholten Joins Letter Calling for Swift Consideration of Administration’s Border Security Request,2023-10-31,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) joined over 30 New Democrat Coalition members in a letter to Congressional leadership calling on the Senate to quickly bring a bipartisan border security package reflecting President Biden’s supplemental request to the House Floor.

Throughout the 118th Congress, New Dems have called on the Administration and House leadership to advance additional funding to streamline immigration processes, secure the border, and tackle the fentanyl crisis.

“As members of the New Democrat Coalition, we understand emergency funding is necessary to secure our border, ensure a humane and orderly immigration process, and stop the flow of fentanyl into the United States… Securing our nation’s southern border is a bipartisan goal, and the shared responsibility of all members of Congress. We ask that you swiftly bring this important package to a vote in the Senate,” wrote the lawmakers.

You can read the full letter to Congressional leadership here and below:

Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Speaker Johnson, Minority Leaders McConnell, and Jefferies,

We urge you to quickly bring a bipartisan border security package reflecting the President’s Fiscal Year 2024 emergency supplemental request to the Senate floor. As members of the New Democrat Coalition, we understand emergency funding is necessary to secure our border, ensure a humane and orderly immigration process, and stop the flow of fentanyl into the United States.

President Biden has put forth a strong and comprehensive border security package in his supplemental request. The requested $13.6 billion investment would:

Increase boots on the ground at the border. The request ensures the Department of Homeland Security has the additional resources and personnel to accomplish their mission of maintaining border security while assisting refugees and processing migrants, including funds to hire an additional 1,300 border patrol agents.

Improve the processing of asylum cases. The request includes funding to hire 375 new immigration judge teams and 1,600 asylum officers to tackle the significant backlog straining our immigration courts that has severely delayed resolutions, often for years at a time.

Support local governments and nonprofits. The request includes $1.4 billion for the depleted Shelter and Services Program which reimburses already-overstretched local governments and nonprofits who provide essential resources to recently released migrants.

Address the fentanyl crisis. The request includes funding to hire an additional 1,000 officers focused on counter-fentanyl efforts and to purchase cutting-edge technology to stop the flow of fentanyl into the United States. Deaths related to the use of illicit fentanyl and other synthetic opioids have risen by nearly 200% in the past decade, affecting nearly every American community in the process. Each of these investments will reduce illicit fentanyl trafficking and save lives.

Securing our nation’s southern border is a bipartisan goal, and the shared responsibility of all members of Congress. We ask that you swiftly bring this important package to a vote in the Senate.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-president-bidens-executive-actions-on-artificial-intelligence,Peters Statement on President Biden’s Executive Actions on Artificial Intelligence,2023-10-31,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, released the following statement after President Joe Biden issued an executive order to establish new standards for use of artificial intelligence (AI):

“We need to ensure there are guardrails in place for artificial intelligence to be used safely, ethically, and in a way that protects privacy rights and American jobs. The executive actions the Administration announced today will build on legislation I passed into law to set standards for how the federal government uses artificial intelligence and will help expand those standards to the private sector. It’s critical that we work to help ensure the United States continues to lead the world in artificial intelligence development and its safe and responsible use.”

The Executive Order announced today comes after the AI in Government Act, which Peters cosponsored, became law in 2020. That legislation required the Administration to provide resources and guidance to federal agencies on the responsible acquisition and use of AI, advancing AI innovation, and managing AI risks in the federal government. The Executive Order reiterates and expands on the requirements of the AI in Government Act, and tasks the Office of Management and Budget to provide specific guidelines and oversee government use of AI.

In addition, the Executive Order requires federal agencies to make AI training opportunities available. This requirement builds on Peters’ legislation that was signed into law in 2022 to create a training program to help federal employees responsible for purchasing and managing AI capabilities better understand the capabilities and risks of these technologies. Peters has also introduced bipartisan legislation to create an AI training program for federal supervisors and management officials.

The Executive Order also reiterates the requirements set out in Peters’ Advancing American AI Act­—which was signed into law last year—for federal agencies to protect privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties, among other considerations, when purchasing AI systems, and for agencies to ensure transparency through publication of inventories of the AI systems they are using. The Administration is also requiring federal agencies to appoint a Chief AI Officer and creating an inter-agency AI Council, both requirements that Peters championed through his AI LEAD Act, which passed out of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee earlier this year. The Executive Order also highlights the importance of transparency when agencies use automated systems. Peters’ bipartisan Transparent Automated Governance Act would require federal agencies to notify individuals when they are interacting with or subject to decisions made using automated systems, and directs agencies to establish a redress process with human review of AI-generated decisions.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-meets-with-returning-citizens-and-workforce-development-leaders-in-detroit-after-announcing-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-reentry-programs,PHOTOS: Peters Meets with Returning Citizens and Workforce Development Leaders in Detroit After Announcing Bipartisan Legislation to Support Reentry Programs,2023-10-31,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"DETROIT, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) visited the City of Detroit’s Northwest Activities Center to highlight his bipartisan legislation that supports reentry programs that help individuals reintegrate into their communities after incarceration or justice system contact. Peters’ Reentry Employment Opportunities Act would make the U.S. Department of Labor’s Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) program permanent. The REO program provides grant funding to organizations that facilitate a smoother transition for returning citizens by equipping them with the necessary skills to secure meaningful employment.

The Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC) – Detroit’s official workforce agency – received $1.1 million from the REO program to launch the Growth Opportunities Program, which supports young individuals who have entered or are at risk of entering the justice system. Peters toured the Northwest Activities Center’s workforce development facilities and sat in on a Growth Opportunities Program session, where he met with participants to hear firsthand how the program has helped them expand their career opportunities and establish economic independence. Peters was joined by Group Executive of Workforce Development and Detroit at Work for the City of Detroit Terri Weems, along with a program participant, Christian Gary, who spoke to how this support has helped him acquire and maintain employment since returning to his community.

“Michiganders who have been involved with the criminal justice system face all kinds of challenges when they return home. Finding a job is one of the hardest,” said Senator Peters. “But far too often, these citizens are left to fend for themselves and navigate the journey home without the resources they need to get a job and start a new chapter of their lives. I’m fighting to protect the federal grant program that supports this vital work, which I got to see firsthand today, to help returning citizens find steady employment, reduce the chances of recidivism and grow the number of skilled workers in our communities.”

“Programs that meet returning citizens where they are and help them transition back to day-to-day life have been shown to be invaluable when it comes to reducing recidivism,” said Terri Weems, Group Executive of Workforce Development & Detroit at Work at the City of Detroit. “Without access to such programs, individuals re-enter society often with fewer opportunities to live fully than when they offended in the first place. If we want former offenders to become productive members of their communities, they must have access to resources that develop the skills employers need, as well as the supportive services and guidance that make the transition sustainable.”

The DESC – as part of Detroit’s larger workforce development agenda called ‘Detroit at Work’ – is also planning to launch a reentry program using an additional $4 million in REO funding to prepare individuals who are currently in the justice system for the workforce after incarceration by providing valuable skills training and employment opportunities.

Currently, the REO program exists as a pilot program authorized under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. The First Step Act – which Peters supported and helped enact – reauthorized the REO program when it was signed into law in 2018. However, because it currently exists as a pilot program, it does not have a dedicated funding stream and is funded through a piecemeal approach. Peters’ bipartisan bill would codify the REO program into law to provide it with greater stability for the future.

Peters has led numerous efforts to expand access to skills training opportunities and help more Michiganders secure in-demand, good-paying jobs. He previously helped enact bipartisan legislation that included provisions he authored to expand access to career and technical education (CTE) opportunities outside of the traditional four-year degree career pathway. Peters introduced bipartisan legislation that was signed into law to allow more veterans to use their GI bill benefits toward securing a registered apprenticeship.

To download photos from the event, click here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-tentative-uaw-deals,Peters Statement on Tentative UAW Deals,2023-10-30,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement on the news that General Motors and UAW have reached a tentative contract agreement, following similar tentative agreements reached with Stellantis and Ford last week. The contracts still need to be ratified by UAW members at each of the auto companies.

“The UAW has now received historic contract offers from each of the Big Three auto companies. It’s a testament to how powerful workers are when they come together to collectively bargain for the wages, benefits, and job security they deserve. I’ll keep standing with them as they work towards ratifying a deal with each company — because when unions succeed, it’s a win for all workers.”

Peters has been a consistent supporter of UAW workers. He has joined the picket line with UAW members in Michigan multiple times since the strike began. In July, Peters sent a letter to the CEOs of the Big Three auto manufacturers urging them to negotiate in good faith as the talks began. In August, he met with UAW members in Lansing to show his support and hear their priorities. Peters also organized a multi-member meeting with UAW President Shawn Fain earlier this year.

Michigan is home to the most auto workers in the United States, and UAW represents around 70,000 auto workers in Michigan. The auto industry directly and indirectly employs 1.1 million workers in Michigan, or about 20 percent of the state’s workforce.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/committee-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-simplify-requirements-for-hazard-mitigation-grants,Committee Passes Peters Bipartisan Bill to Simplify Requirements for Hazard Mitigation Grants,2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) that would require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to simplify its requirements for demonstrating the cost-effectiveness of hazard mitigation grants has advanced in the Senate. Generally, states, local governments, Tribes, and territories (SLTTs) that request hazard mitigation funding from FEMA are required to submit a benefit-cost analysis (BCA) to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness of their projects. Extensive applicant feedback has shown that the current BCA process is cumbersome and overly complicated, which puts small and underserved communities at a disadvantage for accessing grant programs. Peters’ bill would help streamline the application process and make it easier for all communities to apply for funding. FEMA hazard mitigation grant funds can be used for projects that reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from natural hazards. The bill was passed by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee where Peters serves as Chair, and now moves to the full Senate for consideration.

“Communities that are most at-risk from natural disasters often face burdensome application requirements to access federal funding for disaster mitigation projects,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan legislation would help improve access to federal grants for smaller and underserved communities so they can be better prepared to face future natural disasters.”

The Facilitating Hazard Mitigations Projects Act would require FEMA to evaluate how to reduce the complexity of its cost-effectiveness requirements for hazard mitigation grants, and provide a report to Congress on that evaluation. This legislation also requires FEMA to consult with SLTTs and non-profit partners as it performs its evaluation. Under this bill, FEMA would still be required to ensure grants are cost-effective and meet all other grant eligibility requirements.

Peters has been a leader in efforts to improve the federal grant process and make it more equitable. He recently introduced the Streamlining Federal Grants Act, which directs the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to provide guidance to federal agencies on how they can simplify and streamline their grant application processes. Previously, Peters passed a bill into law requiring FEMA to use data from the National Risk Index to establish Community Disaster Resilience Zones, which designate communities across the nation that are most in need of mitigation and resiliency projects.

Below are statements in support of Peters’ bipartisan legislation:

“The benefit-cost analysis at FEMA has been challenging for communities to navigate, while creating barriers to developing solid predisaster mitigation projects. Congress must act now to streamline the approach. The U.S. Chamber commends Sens. Peters and Cassidy for their bipartisan efforts to build modern and resilient infrastructure systems across our nation,” said Marty Durbin, Senior Vice President, Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

“The Facilitating Hazard Mitigation Projects Act represents a significant step forward in enhancing our nation's disaster preparedness efforts. By simplifying the process for obtaining hazard mitigation grants, we can empower communities to take proactive steps in protecting their residents and infrastructure. We look forward to working with Congress to advance this important piece of legislation,” said Dr. Natalie Enclade, Executive Director of the BuildStrong Coalition.

“The Mitigation, Climate Adaptation and Resilience Caucus of IAEM is pleased to recommend support for the ‘Facilitating Hazard Mitigation Projects Act.’ The bill would address the disparity and complexity of Cost Benefit Analysis that has been identified as a long-standing barrier to effective mitigation programs in many locations. We look forward to providing continued input on the process as it is analyzed and reformed. The Caucus strives to support our membership to build capacity throughout their jurisdiction of responsibility, and this legislation aligns with that goal,” said Chasity Schmelzenbach, Chair, IAEM Mitigation, Climate Adaptation and Resilience Caucus.

“When disasters strike, county officials and emergency responders play a critical role in both the immediate response and long-term efforts to recover,” said National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase. “Under current law, FEMA requires counties to undertake a benefit-cost analysis for pre and post disaster mitigation projects, which can be unnecessarily burdensome and lead to delays in recovery. The Facilitating Hazard Mitigation Projects Act would require FEMA to examine ways to reduce the complexity of this process to ensure resources reach communities more efficiently. We thank Senators Peters and Cassidy for introducing this bipartisan legislation and urge its swift passage.”

“ASFPM strongly supports evaluating how to reduce the complexity and burden of doing a benefit-cost analysis (BCAs) for hazard mitigation projects. Conducting BCAs has long been challenging for communities and the proposed legislation from Chairman Peters and Senator Cassidy will put a focus on how we can make critical programs more efficient, while making communities more resilient,” said Chad Berginnis, CFM, Executive Director.

“The ‘Facilitating Hazard Mitigation Projects Act,’ will move toward streamlining the BCA process and reducing complexity in completing mitigation projects. This will allow us to take another step toward our shared vision of ‘whole community’ resilience and integrating underserved communities in mitigation programs. The National Emergency Management Association (NEMA) welcomes the direction in the bill for FEMA to work directly with stakeholders in these BCA improvements as we all strive to make programs for building resilience less complicated,” said Russell Strickland, NEMA President and Secretary of the Maryland Department of Emergency Management.

“Reducing the complexity of the benefit-cost analysis (BCA) requirement for FEMA hazard mitigation grants is an important step to ensure that local governments, especially small to medium-sized cities, towns, and villages, can compete for these grants,” said Yucel Ors, Legislative Director, Public Safety and Crime Prevention for the National League of Cities. “Streamlining the BCA process lowers the administrative burden and levels the playing field, allowing smaller communities to access critical resources and bolster their disaster preparedness efforts, ultimately fostering greater community resilience. We applaud Senators Peters and Cassidy for this effort.”

“Embracing the proposed legislative changes to FEMA's Benefit Cost Analysis not only paves the way for reduced complexity but also instills hope in identifying the benefits of projects that may be challenging to quantify yet remain remarkably vital for our communities. This is indeed a step forward towards a more resilient and safer tomorrow for all,” said Annie Vest, President of the Natural Hazard Mitigation Association.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-stabenow-announce-860000-in-federal-funding-for-michigan-communities-to-develop-safety-plans-to-prevent-roadway-deaths-and-serious-injuries,"Peters & Stabenow Announce $860,000 in Federal Funding for Michigan Communities to Develop Safety Plans to Prevent Roadway Deaths and Serious Injuries",2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced $860,000 in federal grants for Michigan communities to improve roadway safety by developing comprehensive safety action plans. The funding is being awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program, which funds local and regional road safety projects that will help prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries. Funding for this program is made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that Peters and Stabenow helped enact into law.

The communities listed below are receiving funding to develop comprehensive safety action plans:

Chikaming Township - $120,000

Jackson County - $500,000

Macatawa Area Coordinating Council - $240,000

“Michigan drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists deserve to know that our streets and roadways are as safe as possible,” said Senator Peters. “These important investments will help communities across our state identify roadway safety concerns and take steps necessary to prevent future injuries and deaths.”

“This investment will give our local communities the tools they need to keep Michigan cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers safe. Roadway deaths are all too common, and this is a great first step to improving some of the most dangerous streets in our state,” said Senator Stabenow.

More information about the Safe Streets and Roads for All program can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-bill-to-save-taxpayer-dollars-by-reusing-excess-federal-property-advances-in-senate,Peters Bipartisan Bill to Save Taxpayer Dollars by Reusing Excess Federal Property Advances in Senate,2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) to hold agencies more accountable to the public on how they reuse excess personal property has advanced in the Senate. Federally-owned personal property includes physical items such as office supplies, furniture, automobiles, and heavy machinery. The federal government is the largest purchaser of goods and services in the world, and this bill would ensure agencies are looking to excess property – available at no cost apart from any necessary transportation – before buying new products to save taxpayer dollars. The bill was advanced by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee where Peters serves as Chair, and now moves to the full Senate for consideration.

“The federal government is the largest purchaser of goods in the world, but some of these goods go unused by agencies. These purchases include office supplies, equipment, and vehicles – all property that could be reused within the federal government,” said Senator Peters. “My bipartisan bill would hold agencies more accountable by ensuring the use of pre-owned federal property, which would help save taxpayer dollars and limit waste.”

The Reuse Excess Property Act would update existing requirements for agencies to report their excess personal property to the General Services Administration (GSA) by making those reports available to the public as well. This would help agency officials and taxpayers better understand the extent to which agencies are working to cut wasteful spending through the use of excess property. The bill would also require agencies to publicly report on their guidance on the use of excess personal property and designate an employee to be responsible for searching through available excess personal property for items that meet agency needs.

Peters has been a leader in efforts to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent effectively and efficiently. His bipartisan bill to streamline the federal property review process was signed into law. This law cuts down on wasteful government spending by requiring agencies to assess property more regularly to ensure property can be more frequently be declared as excess, and acquired by other federal offices where it is needed.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-leads-small-business-committee-democrats-calling-sba-release,Rep. Scholten Leads Small Business Committee Democrats in Calling on SBA to Release Updated Minority Contracting Statistics,2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03), along with Small Business Committee Ranking Member Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) and Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D-MD), led five Small Business Committee Democrats in sending a letter to the Small Business Administration (SBA) calling on the agency to release updated, disaggregated data of federal contracting spending by race/ethnicity of business owners for Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22).

“Given the ongoing challenges for small businesses in the federal marketplace, including and especially for minority-owned small businesses and programs that focus on minority-owned businesses, we believe that this data will continue to demonstrate the need for targeted programs,” wrote the lawmakers. “Updating and releasing this information would be a prudent and clear step toward our shared goal of increasing opportunity for all underserved small business government contractors.”

In 2021, the Biden administration released disaggregated federal contracting data for the first time in an effort to increase transparency and equity in procurement programs. The data highlights that minority-owned small businesses continue to be underrepresented in the federal marketplace. The data has emerged as a valuable tool for lawmakers crafting policies to address barriers to entry and other obstacles for government contractors.

“The committee requests that the SBA compile this information from the FY22 data as soon as practicable,” wrote the lawmakers. “We believe that this information is especially timely and prudent and would be helpful to ongoing efforts to protect programs that level the playing field for minority-owned businesses.”

The letter was also signed by Reps. Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Morgan McGarvey (D-KY), Sharice Davids (D-KS), Dean Phillips (D-MN), and Judy Chu (D-CA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-statement-election-speaker-mike-johnson,Rep. Scholten Statement on Election of Speaker Mike Johnson,2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) issued the below statement after House Republicans elected Rep. Mike Johnson to Speaker of the House:

“While I remain deeply concerned about the Speaker’s record, especially his connections to the efforts to overturn the 2020 election, I am committed to working across the aisle to get things done for West Michigan. I hope the Speaker rises to the occasion and stays true to his promise of bipartisanship that he expressed during his speech this afternoon. Now, let’s get back to work.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/committee-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-customer-service-at-federal-agencies,Committee Passes Peters Bipartisan Bill to Improve Customer Service at Federal Agencies,2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to improve and streamline the customer service that federal agencies provide in person, online, and over the phone has advanced in the Senate. The federal government provides a wide range of critical services, though many agencies can be difficult to navigate. Agencies that have made efforts to prioritize customer experience – including by offering services that limit wait times and hold times – have improved their ability to deliver services for the American people. The Improving Government Services Act would encourage all government agencies to offer a better and more secure experience for taxpayers by adopting customer service best practices from the private sector. The bill was passed by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee where Peters serves as Chair, and now moves to the full Senate for consideration.

“The federal government interacts with millions of taxpayers every day, but these interactions can lead to long wait times and poor customer service experiences,” said Senator Peters. “My commonsense bipartisan legislation will ensure that agencies improve taxpayer satisfaction by implementing private sector best practices like call backs and online services.”

“We applaud Sen. Peters for his focus on customer experience and improved federal services. From taxpayers seeking IRS assistance to veterans receiving health care, the public engages with government services in countless ways and it’s important to ensure those services are user-friendly and accessible. Tackling this critical issue will help strengthen trust in our government and provide people with the high-quality federal services they expect and deserve,” Max Stier, president and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service.

Agencies that have prioritized customer service best practices have not only seen their ability to deliver services improve, they have improved their customer satisfaction as well. For example, after implementing some new customer service strategies, such as establishing a single phone number to access benefits and services and new ways for veterans to quickly access information, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) saw veterans’ trust in the agency rise from 55 percent in 2016 to nearly 80 percent in 2023. The VA reported that in 2022, their AskVA service to improve responses to veterans’ questions successfully resolved 98% of inquiries received through the new system. By modernizing its call centers, the VA was able to address more than 50 million calls in 2022, leading to more than 70% of customers reporting that the service addressed their needs.

The senator’s legislation would require agencies to develop a written comprehensive strategy to improve customer experience, including a plan to adopt appropriate customer service best practices from the private sector such as online services, telephone call back services, and employee training programs. The bill also requires agencies to plan for long-term customer service improvements – including adoption of the latest technologies that can better serve the public – and to assess which services they can co-locate with other federal services or offer self-service customer experience options.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-condemning-hamas_demanding-the-immediate-release-of-all-hostages,Peters & Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Condemning Hamas & Demanding the Immediate Release of All Hostages,2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped introduce a bipartisan resolution condemning Hamas – the Iranian-backed terrorist group responsible for the premeditated, coordinated, and brutal terrorist attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023 – and demanding that it release all hostages and return them to safety immediately. It is estimated that more than 200 people – including Americans – were abducted and are currently being held hostage in the Gaza Strip. Some of the hostages are children and the elderly, who Hamas has threatened to execute and broadcast their executions publicly.

“The more than 200 people currently being held hostage by Hamas are not just numbers on a piece of paper. They are human beings – friends, mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan resolution demonstrates our unwavering support for the Israeli people and demands that Hamas safely return these individuals to their loved ones and communities.”

The text of the resolution can be found here.

Peters joined the Jewish Federation of Detroit at Congregation Shaarey Zedek in Southfield to stand with the community following Hamas’ deadly terrorist attacks on Israel. Peters also recently joined Jewish leaders at the Woodward Avenue Shul in Royal Oak to discuss his efforts to support the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), which helps houses of worship protect their facilities and communities against potential threats. In recent years, Peters led bipartisan legislation to reauthorize this program and ensure it continues to have sufficient funding. The program has seen an increased demand as hate crimes and related threats of violence have risen in recent years.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-reintroduces-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-reentry-opportunities-through-skills-trainings-and-apprenticeships,Peters Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Reentry Opportunities Through Skills Trainings & Apprenticeships,2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) reintroduced bipartisan legislation designed to bolster reentry initiatives that center on offering employment preparation, pre-workforce training, and vocational apprenticeship prospects. The Reentry Employment Opportunities Act, which Peters introduced with Senator Mike Braun (R-IN), would codify the U.S. Department of Labor’s Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) program into law. The REO program is dedicated to supporting organizations on a national, regional, and local scale in their efforts to provide skill training programs. It facilitates a smoother transition for individuals reintegrating back into their communities after incarceration by equipping them with the necessary skills to secure meaningful employment.

“Over an extended period of time, individuals who have completed their sentences have been unfairly denied the opportunities to enter the job market and embark on a fresh start in their lives,” said Senator Peters. “The Reentry Employment Opportunities Act would boost existing skills training and apprenticeship programs and provide a second chance for people in Michigan and across the country who are reintegrating back into their communities after being incarcerated.”

The bill has been endorsed by the Center for Employment Opportunities, Detroit at Work, Rights4Girls, the Reentry Working Group, the Safer Foundation, and the National Youth Employment Coalition.

“Programs that meet returning citizens where they are and help them transition back to day-to-day life have been shown to be invaluable when it comes to reducing recidivism,” said Dana Williams, President and CEO of Detroit at Work. “Without access to such programs, individuals re-enter society often with fewer opportunities to live fully than when they offended in the first place. If we want former offenders to become productive members of their communities, they must have access to resources that develop the skills employers need, as well as the supportive services and guidance that make the transition sustainable.”

“CEO thanks Senators Peters and Braun for their leadership in introducing the Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) Act,"" said Sam Schaeffer, Chief Executive Officer for the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO). “Every person coming home from incarceration should have the opportunity to find fulfilling employment and achieve economic mobility. The REO Act is one important step in reducing the tremendous personal and economic harm of prison by creating more job training opportunities for the more than half a million individuals released from prison each year.”

“Rights4Girls applauds Senators Peters and Braun for their leadership in introducing the Reentry Employment Opportunities Act,” said Yasmin Vafa, Executive Director, Rights4Girls. “This vital legislation represents a key bipartisan effort to assist vulnerable youth in acquiring the skills necessary to help support their wellbeing and enable them to successfully return to their communities and prevent further marginalization.”

“With continued federal investments, we can dismantle barriers to employment inhibiting justice-involved youth in pursuit of healthy and productive lives,” said Dr. Mary Ann Haley, Executive Director, National Youth Employment Coalition. “We applaud Senator Peters and Senator Braun for having introduced the Reentry Employment Opportunities Act, ensuring skills training programs are well-equipped with programmatic support and funding to bolster employment outcomes for justice-involved youth nationwide.”

Currently, the REO program exists as a pilot program authorized under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. The First Step Act – which Peters supported and helped enact – reauthorized the REO program when it was signed into law in 2018. However, because it currently exists as a pilot program, it does not have a dedicated funding stream and is funded through a piecemeal approach. This bipartisan bill would codify into law the REO program and provide it greater stability for the future.

Peters has led numerous efforts to expand access to skills training opportunities, including through securing federal funding for community colleges in Michigan, including Mott Community College, Grand Rapids Community College, and Macomb Community College to strengthen their skills training programs, create state-of-the-art training facilities, and expand apprenticeship programs. In 2020, Peters’ bipartisan legislation to allow more veterans to use their GI bill benefits toward securing a registered apprenticeship was signed into law. In 2018, Peters’ legislation to expand career and technical education was also signed into law, which strengthens school counselor training and awareness of career and technical education so they can help inform students of post-high school education opportunities outside of the traditional four-year college degree.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-hosts-inaugural-telephone-town-hall-speakers-race-israel-hamas,"Rep. Scholten Hosts Inaugural Telephone Town Hall on Speaker’s Race, Israel-Hamas War",2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"An audio replay of the telephone town hall can be found here.

WASHINGTON, D.C.– Last night, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) hosted her inaugural telephone town hall from her Washington, D.C. office. Roughly 4,000 West Michiganders joined the call for updates on the Speaker of the House race, the Israel-Hamas war, the appropriations process, and other issues facing the country.

“There’s nothing more important to me in this work than being accessible and responsive to West Michiganders. As we face unprecedented challenges both at home and abroad, it was an honor to speak with people directly to answer their questions and hear their concerns,” said Rep. Scholten.“I look forward to hosting more town halls – both in person and over the phone – in the future and will continue working to make sure West Michiganders’ voices are heard in Washington.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-stabenow-announce-more-than-161-million-in-federal-funding-to-help-michigan-families-pay-their-energy-bills,Peters & Stabenow Announce More Than $161 Million in Federal Funding to Help Michigan Families Pay Their Energy Bills,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced that Michigan is receiving $161,019,682 in federal funding to help low-income families and individuals keep the heat on in the winter and the air conditioning on in the summer. This assistance is made available through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps low-income households afford their home heating and cooling bills, prevent energy shutoffs, restore services, make energy-related home repairs, and weatherize their homes to make them more energy efficient. Peters and Stabenow helped secure a $100 million increase for this critical program through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

“Michigan communities can experience both bitter cold in the winter and extreme heat during the summer,” said Senator Peters. “I fought for this critical funding to help ensure folks have the support they need to keep themselves, their families, and their homes safe when we experience dangerous temperatures.”

“Michigan is no stranger to extreme cold. As we head into the winter season, this critical funding will help ensure that Michigan families don’t have to choose between keeping the heat on and putting food on the table,” said Senator Stabenow.

This funding announcement also includes the launch of the LIHEAP Eligibility Tool, which allows households across Michigan and the United States to quickly identify if they are eligible for LIHEAP assistance. More information about the LIHEAP program can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-helps-introduce-clean-water-act-2023,Rep. Scholten Helps Introduce Clean Water Act of 2023,2023-10-24,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– On the 51st anniversary of the Clean Water Act, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) joined fellow members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee in introducing the Clean Water Act of 2023 to protect America’s rivers, streams, and wetlands from pollution.

“Everyone deserves access to clean water – it’s really that simple. Our much-needed bill will restore the integrity of the original Clean Water Act so we can protect this critical resource for future generations,” said Rep. Scholten.

This legislation undoes the damage from the Supreme Court Sackett decision, which dramatically limited the scope of federal protections over the nation’s waters and wetlands provided by the original Clean Water Act of 1972.

The bill reinstates the bipartisan federal-state partnership that has protected rivers, streams, and wetlands for over 50 years and establishes a clear, level playing field for businesses and industries to thrive while protecting precious natural resources.

A one-page summary of the bill can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-recognizes-biden-administrations-immediate-response-terrorism-and,"Rep. Scholten Recognizes Biden Administration’s Immediate Response to Terrorism and Gaza Conflict, Urges Need for Continued Aid in Gaza",2023-10-23,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) joined a majority of her House Democratic Caucus colleagues in thanking the Biden administration for their immediate response to the conflict in the Middle East and urged the need for continued humanitarian aid to Gaza to prevent the loss of more innocent lives.

“We are grateful as well for your clear statements regarding the fundamental importance of ensuring that the humanitarian needs of the civilian population of Gaza are met, and that all possible steps are being taken to ensure the safety of civilians and noncombatants in the Strip. Reportedly, more than 3,000 people have been killed and more than 9,700 wounded in Gaza, making it imperative that we act immediately to prevent further loss of innocent lives. We agree with you that Israel’s response must be in accordance with international law and our shared democratic values,” wrote the lawmakers.

“Even after this war between Israel and Hamas is over, the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians cannot be solved ultimately by any military means. When this crisis ends, your leadership together with regional partners will be needed to create a path to a sustainable future because, as you have so often pointed out, both Israelis and Palestinians deserve equal measures of freedom, security, opportunity and dignity. There will never be an end to the violence until that goal is achieved, and we know that the United States will have a significant role in the pursuit of the peaceful coexistence between Israel and its neighbors,” the lawmakers continued.

Read the full letter here and below:

Dear President Biden,

We write to thank you for your strong leadership during a tragic and dangerous moment in the Middle East. The horrific attack on October 7 against Israel by the terrorist organization Hamas took the lives of over 1,400 people, injured over 3,000 more, and resulted in the capture of nearly 200 people – including many American citizens – who are being held as hostages in Gaza. You have rightly condemned these actions as pure evil and expressed the United States’ steadfast support for our ally Israel in a moment of need and horror.

We stand with you in supporting Israel and are ready to provide whatever assistance the state and people of Israel need to defend themselves and to ensure that hostages return home and those who perpetrated these crimes against humanity are held accountable.

We are grateful as well for your clear statements regarding the fundamental importance of ensuring that the humanitarian needs of the civilian population of Gaza are met, and that all possible steps are being taken to ensure the safety of civilians and noncombatants in the Strip. Reportedly, more than 3,000 people have been killed and more than 9,700 wounded in Gaza, making it imperative that we act to prevent further loss of innocent lives. We agree with you that Israel’s response must be in accordance with international law and our shared democratic values.

We support the efforts that Secretary Blinken and your entire administration are making to ensure that the basic necessities of life for Gaza’s civilians are available, such as food, water, and medicine. In addition, we must enable those civilians and noncombatants who want to seek refuge temporarily in safe zones in southern Gaza to be given safe passage, and to ensure that they have the ability to return to their communities in Gaza when the war is over.

A commitment to Israel’s security and right to respond to terror is not incompatible with a commitment to the humanitarian needs of the innocent people of Gaza. Indeed, you are correctly charting a path that promotes American values and interests when we pursue both goals together.

We further support the efforts that your administration is undertaking to prevent the conflict from escalating to other fronts in this war, including to Israel’s north, as evidenced by the decision to deploy carrier strike groups to the Eastern Mediterranean. In particular, we urge your administration to work closely with Israel and regional partners to ensure stability on the West Bank and to prevent any escalation of violence in that region.

Even after this war between Israel and Hamas is over, the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians cannot be solved ultimately by any military means. When this crisis ends, your leadership together with regional partners

will be needed to create a path to a sustainable future because, as you have so often pointed out, both Israelis and Palestinians deserve equal measures of freedom, security, opportunity and dignity. There will never be an end to the violence until that goal is achieved, and we know that the United States will have a significant role in the pursuit of the peaceful coexistence between Israel and its neighbors.

Thank you again for your steady and determined leadership at this critical time. We look forward to continuing to work with you in defense of Israel and, ultimately, in pursuit of peace in the Middle East.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-stabenow-applaud-150-million-in-federal-funding-to-strengthen-michigans-power-grid-against-bad-weather,Peters & Stabenow Applaud $150 Million in Federal Funding to Strengthen Michigan’s Power Grid Against Bad Weather,2023-10-20,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) today applauded the announcement of a $150 million Department of Energy (DOE) investment which will strengthen the state’s power grid against extreme weather. This funding is being granted to DTE Energy, Consumers Energy, and American Electric Power through the DOE’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program. Peters and Stabenow wrote letters to the DOE supporting the grant application for each project. Additional information about each grant can be found below:

DTE Energy is receiving $22.9 million to develop and build two sets of adaptive networked microgrids which will be installed at O’Shea Solar Park in Detroit. These microgrids will provide key insights into opportunities for load management, peak shaving and faster restoration for customers in urban areas.

Consumers Energy is being awarded $100 million make upgrades to circuit systems on federally-designated Disadvantaged Communities and mitigate the impact of outages in the region.

American Electric Power is receiving $27.8 million to deploy an Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) across its entire grid and enhance grid flexibility and protect its system against threats of extreme weather.

“As severe weather events become more common across Michigan, consumers are experiencing a growing number of electrical service disruptions,” said Senator Peters. “I was proud to support these critical investments, which will make our electrical grid more resilient and protect consumers when weather events impact our state.”

“Michigan residents know firsthand how more frequent extreme weather is taking a toll on our state’s electrical grid. These critical investments will help ensure Michigan households can count on reliable, affordable power no matter the forecast. These projects will not only help address the impact of the climate crisis in our homes, but will create more good-paying jobs,” said Senator Stabenow.

The GRIP grant program invests in projects that improve resilience of our power systems and ensure the reliability of the power sector’s infrastructure. More information about the GRIP grant program can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-calls-for-increase-in-funding-to-protect-houses-of-worship-and-other-nonprofits-against-threats-amid-historic-levels-of-hate-crimes,Peters Calls for Increase in Funding to Protect Houses of Worship and Other Nonprofits Against Threats Amid Historic Levels of Hate Crimes,2023-10-20,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Amid a historic rise in hate crimes in the U.S., U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) is calling for additional funding to protect synagogues, mosques, gurdwaras, African-American churches, and other religious or non-profit institutions from potential attacks. Peters – alongside U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Chris Murphy (D-CT) – urged the leaders of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to allocate $500 million in funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) for Fiscal Year 2024 as Congress negotiates a government funding deal in the coming weeks. As Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has continuously fought to increase funding for the NSGP, which provides grant funding to religious institutions and other nonprofits to help strengthen their security in the face of these rising threats and attacks. Last year, the NSGP distributed $305 million in funding, however, not all organizations that applied for funding received it. In August, $7.5 million in NSGP grant funding went to faith-based and other nonprofits across Michigan to help secure their facilities. Peters is pushing for an increase in funding to help meet growing demand for the program.

“Every American has a fundamental right to practice their faith and live in their community safely and peacefully,” said Senator Peters, Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “I’ve repeatedly fought to increase funding for this critical program to help houses of worship—including synagogues, mosques and gurdwaras—as well as other community nonprofits secure their facilities, particularly as the number of hate crimes in our country continues to rise. As hostilities in the Middle East lead to increased tensions at home, I strongly urge my colleagues to fund the program at $500 million to help keep our communities safe.”

Last year, the FBI recorded more than 11,000 hate crime incidents, the most since it started collecting this data in 1991. Organizations can use NSGP funds to invest in a variety of security measures, including installing physical target hardening measures like gates and motion lights, conducting preparedness and prevention planning exercises, and contracting security personnel.

This effort comes after Peters recently joined Jewish leaders at the Woodward Avenue Shul in Royal Oak to discuss his efforts to support the NSGP and help houses of worship protect their facilities and communities. In recent years, Peters also led bipartisan legislation to reauthorize this program and ensure it continues to have sufficient funding.

The full text of the letter to House and Senate Appropriations Committee leadership is available below:

Dear Chairwoman Murray, Ranking Member Collins, Chairwoman Granger, and Ranking Member DeLauro,

Thank you for your continued support for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP). Congress appropriated a record $305 million in funding for the NSGP in FY 2023. This funding was a crucial step towards meeting high demand for these critical security measures. However, the Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel and the escalating conflict have elevated concerns of potential security threats to Jewish, Muslim, and Arab communities and houses of worship across the country. As the war escalates, it must be expected that houses of worship and community centers of all faiths will require greater resources to improve their security. Therefore, as you draft the final Fiscal Year 2024 Homeland Security Appropriations bill, we respectfully request you fund the NSGP at no less than $500 million, with $250 million going towards eligible nonprofits in high-risk urban areas and $250 million going to eligible nonprofits outside such areas.

Domestic terrorism and hate crimes targeted at vulnerable communities are at historic highs. Last May, a white supremacist shot 13 and killed 10 in a predominantly Black neighborhood in Buffalo, New York. In August 2023, a man wielding a swastika-emblazoned rifle killed three Black people at a Dollar General store in Jacksonville, Florida. Earlier this month, a man in Indiana was indicted for sending violent, antisemitic threats to four offices of the Anti-Defamation League. Hate and extremism continue to pose a threat to minority communities and we should ensure that we are able to provide robust support to our constituencies who are threatened by such violence.

While we are grateful many law enforcement departments around the country are proactively on high alert for hate crimes stemming from Hamas’ assault on Israel, we are already seeing virulent antisemitism at rallies across the country. Additionally, just this past weekend, a 6-year-old Palestinian American boy was tragically killed and his mother stabbed in what has been charged as a hate crime in response to current events in the Middle East. We are concerned that continued tensions may lead to increased hate crimes against the Jewish, Muslim, Arab and other communities. For these reasons, we respectfully urge you to increase funding for the NSGP in your final bill to a total of $500 million.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-urges-congress-to-extend-funding-for-affordable-connectivity-program-to-lower-high-speed-internet-costs-for-michiganders,Peters Urges Congress to Extend Funding for Affordable Connectivity Program to Lower High-Speed Internet Costs for Michiganders,2023-10-20,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) joined 31 of his Senate colleagues in urging Congressional leaders to extend funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides financial assistance to access high-speed internet for over 800,000 households in Michigan and more than 21 million working families across the nation. Senator Peters helped create this program through the bipartisan infrastructure law to lower high-speed internet costs for Michiganders and help more families and communities get connected. As a result of the program’s popularity, its funds are set to be depleted in a few months, far before the anticipated date.

“We write to urge you to extend funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides over 21 million working families with financial assistance for broadband access, to help bridge the digital divide so they can continue to afford the broadband services they need for work, school, health care, and more,” wrote the Senators. “Should ACP funding not be extended, millions of Americans could be at risk of losing access to broadband.”

“Failing to extend funding would be irresponsible,” they continued. “We urge you to extend funding for the ACP in a government appropriations package and include a long-term solution that ensures efficient spending of taxpayer dollars.”

The full letter can be found HERE.

Senator Peters is committed to expanding high-speed internet access across Michigan. In June 2023, he announced that Michigan would receive more than $1.5 billion in federal funding from the Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment Program, known as BEAD, to increase high-speed internet access. This funding was also made available by the bipartisan infrastructure law that Peters helped enact. In June, Senator Peters also announced that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) awarded more than $61 million in federal funding for the Peninsula Fiber Network to connect unserved and underserved communities in Michigan to high-speed internet. This project will place 535 miles of new broadband fiber to connect local networks to high-capacity national and regional networks, which will bring high-speed internet access to over 35,000 homes in rural counties in Michigan and increase the resiliency and reliability of internet infrastructure across the state. The funding is made available by the Enabling Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Program, which is also funded by the bipartisan infrastructure law.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-urges-egyptian-government-help-protect-innocent-civilians-gaza,Rep. Scholten Urges Egyptian Government to Help Protect Innocent Civilians in Gaza,2023-10-19,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) joined a bipartisan group of her colleagues in urging Egyptian Ambassador to the United States Motaz Zahran to encourage the Egyptian government to help protect innocent civilians in Gaza.

In a letter, the lawmakers specifically call on the nation, which shares a border with Gaza, to open humanitarian safe zones to allow for innocent civilians to seek refuge from the war as Israel defends itself from Hamas’ brutality.

“In order to protect noncombatants and civilians in Gaza from Hamas’s brutality, we call on the Egyptian government to urgently work with the United States, Israel, and relevant international stakeholders to take all measured and appropriate steps to support and facilitate safe zones in southern Gaza and enable a steady supply of humanitarian assistance to flow from Egypt towards those in the safe zones until the civilian population is able to return to the north of the Strip,” wrote the lawmakers.

Read the full letter below:

Dear Ambassador Zahran,

As members of the U.S. House of Representatives, we are writing to you to express our outright condemnation of the recent terrorist attacks in Israel by Hamas and its terrorist partners, and to strongly encourage the government of Egypt to engage constructively with the United States, Israel, and relevant international stakeholders to, establish and maintain safe zones in southern Gaza, with humanitarian access corridors, for civilians seeking refuge from the fighting in the north of the Strip.

Israel has the well-established right and responsibility to respond to these vicious attacks. We unequivocally support Israel as it defends itself and takes necessary measures in support of its national security and rescue the nearly 200 hostages currently being held in Gaza. As in previous conflicts, we also note that Israel’s military operations inside Gaza are designed to avoid civilian casualties. Israel has repeatedly warned innocent Gazans to leave Hamas locations and targets in the northern part of the Strip and have established an intelligence-driven process to target terrorist activity, limit civilian casualties, establish corridors for safe passage, and adhere to the laws of armed conflict.

In contrast, Hamas wantonly disregards international humanitarian law and the rules of war, including intentionally targeting civilians, taking hostages, using human shields, and embedding their fighters in civilian communities with utter disregard for their welfare. As the controlling authority in the Gaza Strip, Hamas locates its infrastructure and command centers within civilian homes, schools, and hospitals. Hamas routinely launches rockets and mortars from residential neighborhoods. Hamas and other organizations such as the Palestinian Islamic Jihad have done everything in their power to maximize the danger and suffering of the civilians over which they have governing responsibility, publicly threatening residents and preventing them from evacuating areas from which Hamas is operating. These heinous actions are intentional, irrefutable, and inexcusable. They are also clear violations of the laws of armed conflict.

We are also deeply concerned for innocent civilian lives Hamas is intentionally putting in harm’s way, and the rapidly growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza driven by Hamas’s brutality. Although Israel has repeatedly warned innocent Gazans to leave Hamas locations and targets, Hamas is actively working to prevent the evacuation of innocent Palestinians in order to utilize them as human shields. In fact, Hamas has even taken active steps to prevent foreign nationals from evacuating through the Rafah Border Crossing, the only remaining way out of Gaza.

In order to protect noncombatants and civilians in Gaza from Hamas’s brutality, we call on the Egyptian government to urgently work with the United States, Israel, and relevant international stakeholders to take all measured and appropriate steps to support and facilitate safe zones in southern Gaza and enable a steady supply of humanitarian assistance to flow from Egypt towards those in the safe zones until the civilian population is able to return to the north of the Strip. We are optimistic that the international community will participate in providing financial assistance for this humanitarian situation, but Egypt’s robust participation is essential to the success and the safety and security of up to two million Gazans who are desperately in need of such support. Further, those states that have been long-standing intermediaries for Hamas, especially Qatar and Türkiye, should be called upon to help as well.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-colleagues-call-for-humanitarian-aid-for-civilians-in-gaza-and-the-west-bank,Peters and Colleagues Call for Humanitarian Aid for Civilians in Gaza and the West Bank,2023-10-19,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) joined more than 30 of his Senate colleagues to urge the Biden administration to lead the international community in contributing to the United Nations’ emergency appeal of $294 million to address the immediate humanitarian needs in the West Bank and Gaza.

“As a result of the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza prompted by Hamas’ horrific terror attacks, more than 1.2 million people are in urgent need of lifesaving humanitarian assistance. More than one million people have fled the violence, stretching the already strained ability of the United Nations and humanitarian partners on the ground to provide the food, medical treatment, and shelter they need to survive,” the senators wrote.

The senators continued: “We support Israel’s right to defend its people against the brutal attacks carried out by Hamas. Hamas knew that the Israeli government would have to respond to the unconscionable murder and hostage-taking of its citizens and thus bears the blame for initiating this conflict. We also know there are many innocent Palestinians in Gaza who do not support Hamas and urgently need help as they seek to flee the fighting.”

The senators highlighted the dire situation facing innocent civilians in Gaza: “More than one million people in Gaza have fled their homes in search of safety, with nearly half of those taking shelter in UN facilities. The United Nations estimates that Gaza will run out of food and water within days. Healthcare facilities are overwhelmed, running desperately short on supplies and impacted by the lack of electricity. The humanitarian needs on the ground have dramatically increased over the past week, and conditions will likely continue to deteriorate in the days and weeks ahead.”

“We therefore urge you to join the international community in answering the call from the United Nations by contributing toward this lifesaving $294 million appeal, and ask that you work with the UN and its partners to ensure that the assistance reaches the intended recipients without diversion or delay,” the senators concluded.

Full text of the letter is available here below.

The Honorable Antony Blinken

United States Secretary of State

The State Department

2201 C Street Northwest

Washington, DC 20520

Dear Secretary Blinken,

As a result of the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza prompted by Hamas’ horrific terror attacks, more than 1.2 million people are in urgent need of lifesaving humanitarian assistance. More than one million people have fled the violence, stretching the already strained ability of the United Nations and humanitarian partners on the ground to provide the food, medical treatment, and shelter they need to survive. In this context, the UN has released an emergency appeal for $294 million to address these humanitarian needs, help protect displaced people and save countless lives. We urge you to uphold our country’s proud tradition of leading the international community in providing lifesaving relief by contributing funding for international humanitarian assistance toward this UN appeal.

We support Israel’s right to defend its people against the brutal attacks carried out by Hamas. Hamas knew that the Israeli government would have to respond to the unconscionable murder and hostage-taking of its citizens and thus bears the blame for initiating this conflict. We also know there are many innocent Palestinians in Gaza who do not support Hamas and urgently need help as they seek to flee the fighting. More than one million people in Gaza have fled their homes in search of safety, with nearly half of those taking shelter in UN facilities. The United Nations estimates that Gaza will run out of food and water within days. Healthcare facilities are overwhelmed, running desperately short on supplies and impacted by the lack of electricity. The humanitarian needs on the ground have dramatically increased over the past week, and conditions will likely continue to deteriorate in the days and weeks ahead.

Displaced people around the world depend on lifesaving humanitarian assistance from the UN and its partners to feed their families, receive medical treatment, and secure shelter. The United States should continue its steadfast support for Israel while also doing our part to help the UN assist innocent civilians as they flee the violence. We therefore urge you to join the international community in answering the call from the United Nations by contributing toward this lifesaving $294 million appeal, and ask that you work with the UN and its partners to ensure that the assistance reaches the intended recipients without diversion or delay.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-simplify-requirements-for-hazard-mitigation-grants,Peters Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Simplify Requirements for Hazard Mitigation Grants,2023-10-19,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, introduced bipartisan legislation that would require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to simplify its requirements for demonstrating the cost-effectiveness of hazard mitigation grants. Generally, states, local governments, Tribes, and territories (SLTTs) that request hazard mitigation funding from FEMA are currently required to submit a benefit-cost analysis (BCA) to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness of their projects. Extensive applicant feedback has shown that the current BCA process is cumbersome and overly complicated, which puts underserved communities at a disadvantage for accessing funds. Hazard mitigation grant funds can be used for projects that reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from natural hazards.

“Too often, complex application requirements limit the ability of underserved communities to access critical hazard mitigation funding that helps protect people and property against disasters,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan legislation will help simplify the process and ensure communities in Michigan and across the United States will have the capacity to apply for critical FEMA funding.”

The Facilitating Hazard Mitigations Projects Act would require FEMA to develop strategies for reducing the complexity of its cost-effectiveness requirements for hazard mitigation grants, and provide a report to Congress on how it is implementing those potential strategies. This legislation also requires FEMA to consult with SLTTs and non-profit partners as it performs its evaluation. Under this bill, FEMA would still be required to ensure grants are cost-effective and meet all other grant eligibility requirements.

Peters has been a leader in efforts to improve the federal grant process and make it more equitable. He recently introduced the Streamlining Federal Grants Act, which directs the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to provide guidance to federal agencies on how they can simplify and streamline their grant application processes. Previously, Peters passed a bill into law requiring FEMA to use data from the National Risk Index to establish Community Disaster Resilience Zones, which designate communities across the nation that are most in need of mitigation and resiliency projects.

Below are statements in support of Peters’ bipartisan legislation:

“The benefit-cost analysis at FEMA has been challenging for communities to navigate, while creating barriers to developing solid predisaster mitigation projects. Congress must act now to streamline the approach. The U.S. Chamber commends Sens. Peters and Cassidy for their bipartisan efforts to build modern and resilient infrastructure systems across our nation,” said Marty Durbin, Senior Vice President, Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

“The Facilitating Hazard Mitigation Projects Act represents a significant step forward in enhancing our nation's disaster preparedness efforts. By simplifying the process for obtaining hazard mitigation grants, we can empower communities to take proactive steps in protecting their residents and infrastructure. We look forward to working with Congress to advance this important piece of legislation,” said Dr. Natalie Enclade, Executive Director of the BuildStrong Coalition.

“The Mitigation, Climate Adaptation and Resilience Caucus of IAEM is pleased to recommend support for the ‘Facilitating Hazard Mitigation Projects Act.’ The bill would address the disparity and complexity of Cost Benefit Analysis that has been identified as a long-standing barrier to effective mitigation programs in many locations. We look forward to providing continued input on the process as it is analyzed and reformed. The Caucus strives to support our membership to build capacity throughout their jurisdiction of responsibility, and this legislation aligns with that goal,” said Chasity Schmelzenbach, Chair, IAEM Mitigation, Climate Adaptation and Resilience Caucus.

“When disasters strike, county officials and emergency responders play a critical role in both the immediate response and long-term efforts to recover,” said National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase. “Under current law, FEMA requires counties to undertake a benefit-cost analysis for pre and post disaster mitigation projects, which can be unnecessarily burdensome and lead to delays in recovery. The Facilitating Hazard Mitigation Projects Act would require FEMA to examine ways to reduce the complexity of this process to ensure resources reach communities more efficiently. We thank Senators Peters and Cassidy for introducing this bipartisan legislation and urge its swift passage.”

“ASFPM strongly supports evaluating how to reduce the complexity and burden of doing a benefit-cost analysis (BCAs) for hazard mitigation projects. Conducting BCAs has long been challenging for communities and the proposed legislation from Chairman Peters and Senator Cassidy will put a focus on how we can make critical programs more efficient, while making communities more resilient,” said Chad Berginnis, CFM, Executive Director.

“The ‘Facilitating Hazard Mitigation Projects Act,’ will move toward streamlining the BCA process and reducing complexity in completing mitigation projects. This will allow us to take another step toward our shared vision of “whole community” resilience and integrating underserved communities in mitigation programs. The National Emergency Management Association (NEMA) welcomes the direction in the bill for FEMA to work directly with stakeholders in these BCA improvements as we all strive to make programs for building resilience less complicated,” said Russell Strickland, NEMA President and Secretary of the Maryland Department of Emergency Management.

“Reducing the complexity of the benefit-cost analysis (BCA) requirement for FEMA hazard mitigation grants is an important step to ensure that local governments, especially small to medium-sized cities, towns, and villages, can compete for these grants,” said Yucel Ors, Legislative Director, Public Safety and Crime Prevention for the National League of Cities. “Streamlining the BCA process lowers the administrative burden and levels the playing field, allowing smaller communities to access critical resources and bolster their disaster preparedness efforts, ultimately fostering greater community resilience. We applaud Senators Peters and Cassidy for this effort.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-peters-receives-update-on-implementation-of-his-fairness-for-veterans-law,VIDEO: Peters Receives Update on Implementation of His Fairness for Veterans Law,2023-10-19,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) received an update on the implementation of his Fairness for Veterans law during a Senate Veterans Affairs and Armed Services Joint Committee hearing focused on easing the transition from military service to civilian life. The law helps veterans who may have been erroneously given a less than honorable discharge from the military by giving liberal consideration to petitions for changes in discharge status if the servicemember has been diagnosed with a mental trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). A less than honorable discharge is often given for instances of minor misconduct such as being late to formation and missing appointments – behavior that can be seen in those suffering from PTSD, TBI, and other trauma-related conditions. A servicemember’s discharge status impacts their eligibility for certain benefits, including Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care, Post-9/11 G.I. Bill educational benefits and VA home loans.

“We can all agree that it's critical that our veterans have the support that they need as they transition into civilian life, which is why it's been a priority of mine to introduce legislation that was signed into law to help veterans who may have been wrongly given a less than honorable discharge from the military as a result of PTSD and TBI that was simply not diagnosed,” said Senator Peters, who is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. “We know that whether a veteran is entitled to VA benefits depends largely on the discharge status that's assigned to them, and VA benefits play an absolutely critical role in the successful transition to civilian life. It remains a key priority of mine that the discharge review boards continue to take these types of metal mental traumas into account when they're reviewing these petitions.”

During the hearing, Peters asked Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Ashish Vazirani and Department of Veterans Affairs Under Secretary for Benefits Joshua Jacobs what their agencies are doing to ensure those leaving or having already left military service are aware of opportunities to petition a discharge review board for an upgraded discharge status. Acting Under Secretary Vazirani said the Department of Defense is working with each military department to ensure that servicemembers are aware of opportunities, including through websites with resources. Under Secretary Jacobs said the VA is working to actively increase outreach and to create regulations that may improve outcomes for veterans with less than honorable discharges.

To watch video of the hearing, click here or the image below.

Peters continues to be a strong advocate for Michigan’s servicemembers and veterans. In 2021, Peters was inducted into the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor for his efforts to support our nation’s veterans and military. In 2017, Peters was recognized as Legislator of the Year by the Vietnam Veterans of America for his work authoring and enacting the Fairness for Veterans Act. Peters also helped enact into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act – which delivered VA health care and benefits to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans – and their survivors – for the first time in our nation’s history. Peters additionally passed into law bipartisan legislation to strengthen transparency and communication for veterans and caregivers participating in the VA’s caregiver program. His bipartisan legislation to expand apprenticeship opportunities for veterans and allow them to use their GI bill benefits to secure a registered apprenticeship was signed into law in 2020. Peters also fought for and helped secure a measure in the national defense bill to expand the Department of Veterans Affairs list of medical conditions associated with Agent Orange exposure to include bladder cancer, hypothyroidism, and Parkinsonism.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-expand-access-to-opioid-addiction-treatment-for-adolescents,Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Access to Opioid Addiction Treatment for Adolescents,2023-10-18,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation today to reauthorize funding for a grant program he championed that expands access to opioid addiction treatment for adolescents. Peters’ bipartisan Youth Prevention and Recovery Reauthorization Act ­would build on previous legislation he introduced that was signed into law in 2018 as part of the Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment for Patients and Communities (SUPPORT) Act that established the Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative to make an existing substance abuse program available for young adults. The legislation introduced today would reauthorize funding for the initiative within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to ensure this critical resource remains available to adolescents, families, care providers, and communities.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), more than 695,000 American adolescents used opioids for nonmedical reasons in 2018, up by more than 400,000 since the last study was conducted in 2015. In December 2022, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that monthly drug overdose deaths nearly tripled among adolescents age 10 to 19 years during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic. In Michigan, deaths from opioid overdoses have increased roughly 18 times from 1999 – 2021, when there were more than 2,800 overdose deaths.

“The opioid epidemic is devastating communities in Michigan and across the country, and it’s tragic that the hundreds of thousands of young people suffering from this addiction are struggling to get the care they need,” said Senator Peters. “I’m pushing for the reauthorization of this critical program to expand lifesaving addiction treatments and resources for adolescents to help set them on a path toward recovery.”

The Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative provides funding to hospitals, local governments, and other eligible entities to increase access to opioid addiction medications for adolescents and young adults who have been diagnosed with opioid use disorder, improve local awareness among youth of the risks associated with fentanyl, and train healthcare providers, families, and school personnel on the best practices to support children and adolescents with opioid use disorder.

The use of certain medications – such as buprenorphine – has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment for opioid addiction and improves success rates for continuing treatment and recovery. Medication assisted treatment (MAT) with buprenorphine and other effective drugs is an essential public health tool to prevent future loss of life for those suffering from opioid addiction. However, MAT is often designed for adults, making it more difficult for adolescents to access this proven treatment.

Peters’ Youth Prevention and Recovery Reauthorization Act would reauthorize the Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative, which has provided three-year grants to youth-focused entities for carrying out substance use disorder treatment, prevention, and recovery support services. The legislation also expanded an existing youth substance use disorder program at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to include services for young adults as well as children and adolescents. The authorization of the program, and the SUPPORT Act, expired on September 30, 2023.

The following organizations have endorsed Senator Peters’ Youth Prevention and Recovery Reauthorization Act: American Academy of Pediatrics, American Psychiatric Association, American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Academy of Addition Psychiatry, and the Partnership to End Addiction.

Below are statements in support of Peters’ legislation.

“We applaud Senator Peters and Senator Capito for their commitment to expanding access to life saving substance use disorder treatment for youth and adolescents, particularly for racially and ethnically marginalized populations. Research supports treating patients, including youth, with opioid use disorders with FDA-approved medications as the gold standard and we believe this legislation is a critical first step towards improving access to services and better outcomes,” said Larissa Mooney, MD, President of the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry.

“Despite the availability of safe, effective, and lifesaving treatment, adolescents and young adults with substance use disorders face significant barriers accessing medication for addiction treatment. By reauthorizing SAMHSA's Youth Prevention and Recovery Initiative, the bipartisan Youth Prevention and Recovery Reauthorization Act would make needed progress to help ensure young people can access this vital treatment, while also addressing the unique barriers they too often face in getting the care they need. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) calls on Congress to advance this important legislation and thanks Senator Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) for their leadership on this issue,” said American Academy of Pediatrics President Sandy Chung, MD, FAAP.

“While it is incredibly difficult for anyone with addiction to access effective treatment, adolescents have exceedingly limited treatment options. In the midst of an unrelenting opioid crisis that is claiming the lives of far too many young people, it is critical for the federal government to provide resources to make evidence-based treatment, such as medications for the treatment of opioid use disorder, more widely available,” said Lindsey Vuolo, Vice President of Health Law and Policy, Partnership to End Addiction.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-haley-stevens-d-mi-introduces-resolution-condemning-hamas-brutal,Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI) Introduces a Resolution Condemning Hamas’ Brutal Terrorist Attack on Israel and Kidnapping of Innocent Civilian Hostages,2023-10-17,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI), Co-Chair of the Congressional Task Force on American Hostages and Americans Wrongfully Detained Abroad, introduced a resolution condemning Hamas’ brutal terrorist attack on Israel and their unlawful taking of hostages.

“Hamas holding innocent Israeli civilians hostage is the ultimate act of terrorism, this resolution recognizes these acts for what they are – abhorrent,” said Rep. Haley Stevens (D- MI). “Holding civilians hostage is a violation of international humanitarian law and morally unconscionable. This bi-partisan resolution demands that Hamas release the innocent men, women, and children kidnapped and held. My heart and policymaking abilities are with the hostages and their families. We are committed to bringing those held safely home.

“Hamas’ brutality against the people of Israel is appalling and barbaric,” said Rep. French Hill (AR-02), Co-Chair of the Congressional Task Force on American Hostages and Americans Wrongfully Detained Abroad. “Holding innocent civilians against their will is morally wrong and must be condemned. I am proud to partner with Rep. Haley Stevens in leading this resolution that calls for the immediate release of all hostages wrongfully detained by Hamas. As Co-Chairs of the Congressional Task Force on American Hostages and Americans Wrongfully Detained Abroad, we are committed to bringing all the hostages held by Hamas home safely. My prayers are with all the hostages and their families.”

The resolution condemns Hamas' brutal attack, condemns their holding and threatening of hostages, and demands Hamas immediately release all hostages.

The resolution is co-sponsored by Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-52), Rep. Tom McClintock (CA-05) Rep. Steve Cohen (TN-9), Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Rep. Barbara Lee (CA-12), Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12), Rep. Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Rep. Byron Donalds (FL-19), Rep. Wiley Nickel (NC-13), Rep. Norma J. Torres (CA-35), Rep. Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Rep. Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Rep. Bill Posey (FL-08), Rep. Paul Tonko (NY-20), Rep. Susan Wild (PA-07), Rep. Jim Costa (CA-21), Rep. Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Rep. Debbie Dingell (MI-6), Rep. Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Rep. Melanie A. Stansbury (NM-01), Rep. Donald S. Beyer Jr. (VA-08), Rep. André Carson (IN-07), Rep. Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Rep. Bill Johnson (OH-06), Rep. Greg Landsman (OH-01), Rep. Nancy Mace (SC-01), Rep. Ralph Norman (SC-05), Rep. Marc Molinaro (NY-19), Rep. Tim Walberg (MI-05), Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Rep. Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Rep. Lori Trahan (MA-03), Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Rep. Doug Lamborn (CO-05), Rep. Bryan Steil (WI-01), Rep. Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (TX-26), Rep. Betty McCollum (MN-04), Rep. Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Rep. Aaron Bean (FL-04), Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04), Rep. Rich McCormick (GA-06), Rep.Young Kim (CA-40), Rep. Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Rep. Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Rep. Kelly Armstrong (ND), Rep. Russ Fulcher (ID-01), Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), Rep. Bradley S. Schneider (IL-10), Rep. Nikema Williams (GA-05), Rep. Scott Peters (CA-50), Rep. Bruce Westerman (AR-04), Rep. Al Green (TX-09), Rep. Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Rep. Elissa Slotkin (MI-07), Rep. Adam B. Schiff (CA-30), Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Rep. Kim Schrier (WA-08), Rep. Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24), Rep. Daniel Webster (FL-11), Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Rep. Andy Ogles (TN-05), Rep. Grace F. Napolitano (CA-31), Rep. Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Rep. Chuck Edwards (NC-11), Rep. Elise Stefanik (NY-21), Rep. Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Rep. Kathy Manning (NC-06), Rep. Jamaal Bowman (NY-16), Rep. Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Rep. Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Rep. James R. Baird (IN-04), Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27), Rep. Zach Nunn (IA-03), Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Rep. Dina Titus (NV-01), Rep. Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Rep. Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Rep. Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Rep. Mike Quigley (IL-05), Rep. Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Rep. Roger Williams (TX-25), Rep.Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11), Rep. Katie Porter (CA-47), Rep. Larry Bucshon (IN-08), Rep. Seth Magaziner (RI-2), Rep. Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Rep. Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Rep. Pat Ryan (NY-18), Rep. John Duarte (CA-13), Rep. Gwen Moore (WI-04), Rep. Raul Grijalva (AZ-07), Rep. Dan Goldman (NY-10), Rep. Troy Carter (LA-02), Rep. Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Rep. Jefferson Van Drew (NJ-02), Rep. Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Rep. Steve Womack (AR-03), Rep. Daniel T. Kildee (MI-08), Rep. Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Rep. Jason Crow (CO-06), Rep. Susie Lee (NV-03), Rep.Robin L. Kelly (IL-02), Rep. Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Rep. David Trone (MD-06), Rep. Joyce Beatty (OH-3), Rep. Lois Frankel (FL-22), Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Rep. Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (NJ-09), Rep. Julia Brownley (CA-26), Rep. Ted Lieu (CA-36), Rep. Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Rep. Greg Casar (TX-35), Rep. Nydia Velazquez (NY-7), Rep. Dwight Evans (PA-03), Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rep. Seth Moulton (MA-06), Rep. Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14), Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Rep. Angie Craig (MN-02), Rep. Bennie Thompson (MS-02), Rep. Summer Lee (PA-12), Rep. Shontel M. Brown (OH-11), Rep. Alma S. Adams (NC-12), Rep. David Kustoff (TN-08), Rep. Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Rep. Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Rep. Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García (IL-04), Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28), Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Rep. William R. Keating (MA-09), Rep. Val Hoyle (OR-04), Rep. Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Rep. Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Rep. Carol Miller (WV-01), Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Rep. Chris Pappas (NH-01), Rep. Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), Rep. Terri A. Sewell (AL-07), Rep. Deborah K. Ross (NC-02), Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06), Rep. Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Rep. C. A. Dutch Ruppersberger (MD-02), Rep. Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), Rep. Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Rep. Linda Sanchez (CA-38), Rep. Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Rep. Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Rep. Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Rep. Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Rep. Juan Ciscoman (AZ-06), Rep. Brad Sherman (CA-32), Rep. Andrew Clyde (GA-09), Rep. Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49), Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Rep. Joseph D. Morelle (NY-25), Rep. Tony Cárdenas (CA-29), Rep. John Sarbanes (MD-03), Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05), Rep. James P. McGovern (MA-02), Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL), Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Rep. Tracey Mann (KS-01), Rep. Ed Case (HI-01), Rep. Mark Amodei (NV-02), Rep. Diana DeGette (CO-01), Rep. Andy Kim (NJ-03), Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10), Rep. Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Rep. Mark Green (TN-07), Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Rep. Rep. Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Rep. Joe Courtney (CT-02), Rep. Morgan Luttrell (TX-08), Rep. Robert Garcia (CA-42), Rep. Colin Z. Allred (TX-31), Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-07), Rep. Jennifer L. McClellan (VA-04), Rep. J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Rep. Cori Bush (MO-01), Rep. Sean Casten (IL-06), Rep. Nick Langworthy (NY-23), Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Rep. Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Rep. Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Rep. Pete Stauber (MN-08).

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-shri-thanedar-introduces-picket-line-protection-act-to-support-michigan-workers,Rep. Shri Thanedar Introduces Picket Line Protection Act to Support Michigan Workers,2023-10-17,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Shri Thanedar,T000488,thanedar.house.gov,thanedar,https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – October 17, 2023 – Representative Shri Thanedar, an advocate for hardworking families and a ranking member on the Subcommittee On Transportation And Maritime Security, introduced the Picket Line Protection Act—the Picket Line Protection (PLP) Act. Representative Rashida Tlaib joins Representative Thanedar as an original co-sponsor of the legislation.

The Picket Line Protection Act is designed to alleviate the financial burden faced by striking workers by amending the Internal Revenue Code to exempt strike pay from individual gross income tax. This change would effectively set the tax rate on these crucial funds to 0%, offering significant relief to families during strikes.

Striking workers in the U.S. are subject to income tax on their strike pay. In Michigan's 13th District, which Representative Thanedar represents, United Auto Workers (UAW) receive no more than $600 a week before taxes while on strike. The Picket Line Protection Act aims to alleviate this burden, recognizing strike benefits as a lifeline for struggling families rather than a taxable income.

Linda L. Hinton, Vice President, Communications Workers of America, District 4:

""I am proud to endorse the Picket Line Protection Act of 2023, introduced by Representative Shri Thanedar. Today, more and more workers are exercising their legal right to strike for fair wages, better benefits, and improved working conditions. During these trying times, every dollar counts, and this legislation would help those workers provide for their families by retaining more of their hard-earned strike pay. I urge you to join CWA District 4 in supporting this vital bill.""

Representative Shri Thanedar:

""Striking for better conditions is a brave and necessary act, yet our current tax system punishes workers for standing up for their rights. By exempting strike pay from income tax, we're ensuring that workers in Michigan's 13th District, and across America, can focus on fighting for their futures rather than worrying about making ends meet.""

The Picket Line Protection Act serves as a small but significant step in supporting America’s labor force by allowing them to keep more of their strike pay during challenging times.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-customer-service-at-federal-agencies,Peters Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Customer Service at Federal Agencies,2023-10-17,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, introduced bipartisan legislation to improve and streamline the customer service that federal agencies provide in person, online, and over the phone. The federal government provides a wide range of critical services, though many agencies can be difficult to navigate. Agencies that have made efforts to prioritize customer experience – including by offering services that limit wait times and hold times – have improved their ability to deliver services for the American people. The Improving Government Services Act would encourage all government agencies to offer a better and more secure experience for taxpayers by adopting customer service best practices from the private sector.

“Taxpayers must be able to easily and efficiently reach federal agencies when they have questions about services or benefits,” said Senator Peters. “My commonsense bipartisan bill would require agencies to adopt customer service best practices that limit wait times and use callbacks to ensure taxpayers receive support in a timely manner.”

Agencies that have prioritized customer service best practices have not only seen their ability to deliver services improve, they have improved their customer satisfaction as well. For example, after implementing some new customer service strategies, such as establishing a single phone number to access benefits and services and new ways for veterans to quickly access information, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) saw veterans’ trust in the agency rise from 55 percent in 2016 to nearly 80 percent in 2023. The VA reported that in 2022, their AskVA service to improve responses to veterans’ questions successfully resolved 98% of inquiries received through the new system. By modernizing its call centers, the VA was able to address more than 50 million calls in 2022, leading to more than 70% of customers reporting that the service addressed their needs.

The senator’s legislation would require agencies to develop a written comprehensive strategy to improve customer experience, including a plan to adopt appropriate customer service best practices from the private sector such as online services, telephone call back services, and employee training programs. The bill also requires agencies to plan for long-term customer service improvements – including adoption of the latest technologies that can better serve the public – and to assess which services they can co-locate with other federal services or offer self-service customer experience options.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-statement-house-republican-dysfunction,Rep. Scholten Statement on House Republican Dysfunction,2023-10-13,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) issued the below statement on House Republicans’ dysfunction, which has caused the House of Representatives to go without a Speaker for 10 days and paused legislative action:

“I’m from the heart of conservative West Michigan. The Republican Party I came to know growing up was about fiscal and personal responsibility – without drama and against wasteful spending. Nothing could be further from the truth of today’s Republican Party, especially in the House of Representatives.

While they wage a civil war against one another, they are creating so much waste – wasting time, wasting resources, wasting money, and wasting opportunities. And for what? Petty grievances and emotional temper tantrums to further their own selfish agendas. Taxpayers, who sent us to Washington to get things done, deserve so much better than this.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-urges-biden-administration-immediately-allow-visa-free-travel-us,Rep. Scholten Urges Biden Administration to Immediately Allow for Visa-Free Travel to U.S. for Israeli Citizens,2023-10-13,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) and a bipartisan group of her colleagues urged the Biden administration to immediately allow for visa-free travel to the United States for Israeli citizens with family in the United States. Visa-free travel for Israeli citizens is currently set to begin on November 30th.

“As the Administration continues to work to provide Israel with all the tools it needs to defend itself against this heinous attack, we urge that you take the additional step of immediately allowing visa-free travel for Israeli citizens so that those who have family in the United States can shelter with their loved ones as the war continues,” wrote the lawmakers.

Read the full letter below and here:

Dear President Biden, Secretary Blinken, and Secretary Mayorkas,

This past weekend we witnessed Hamas terrorists commit the single largest murder of Jews on a single day since the Holocaust. Over 1,200 Israelis have been murdered and Hamas has committed unspeakable war crimes.

Over the weekend, many of us received calls from devastated constituents with Israeli family members wishing to take advantage of Israel’s recent admission into the Visa Waiver Program and host their loved ones. However, visa-free travel for Israeli citizens does not take effect until November 30th, 2023.

As President Biden and many others have said since the attacks began, the United States stands shoulder to shoulder with our ally Israel and her people. As the Administration continues to work to provide Israel with all the tools it needs to defend itself against this heinous attack, we urge that you take the additional step of immediately allowing visa-free travel for Israeli citizens so that those who have family in the United States can shelter with their loved ones as the war continues.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-visits-royal-oak-synagogue-amid-ongoing-hostilities-in-israel-and-gaza-discusses-the-importance-of-securing-houses-of-worship-against-threats-of-violence,"Peters Visits Royal Oak Synagogue Amid Ongoing Hostilities in Israel and Gaza, Discusses the Importance of Securing Houses of Worship Against Threats of Violence",2023-10-13,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"ROYAL OAK, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, joined Jewish leaders at the Woodward Avenue Shul in Royal Oak yesterday to discuss his efforts to help houses of worship improve their security and protect congregations from potential attacks. Peters was joined by Woodward Avenue Shul Rabbi Mendel Polter and Steven Ingber, Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit.

“We’ve seen a shocking rise in violence targeting all manner of religious institutions – from synagogues, to gurdwaras, to mosques, to African-American churches. These institutions face bomb threats, hateful graffiti, the risk of arson, and many other security threats,” Senator Peters said. “I was honored to be here with faith-based and community leaders to highlight the critical importance of this program and help spread the word to other organizations who are interested in finding more ways to keep their communities safe.”

“Our congregation has seen firsthand the effects of hate, bigotry, and ignorance,” said Rabbi Mendel Polter of Woodward Avenue Synagogue. “The Non-Profit Security Grant Program has helped protect Michigan’s religious organizations like ours from security threats, and allowed communities across our state feel safer in their houses of worship. I’m grateful to Senator Gary Peters for his leadership on this issue.”

“Our congregations and communities face constant security threats,” said Steven Ingber, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit. “As antisemitic violence increases around the world, Jewish people in Michigan and across the country are left even more vulnerable. The Nonprofit Security Grant Program is one important step towards protecting religious organizations in our state, and I’m grateful to Senator Peters for strengthening this vital program.”

Earlier this year, the Woodward Avenue Shul was vandalized with antisemitic graffiti and recently received funding from the Nonprofit Security Grant Program to secure its property against potential future attacks. Peters’ visit comes after he joined the Jewish Federation of Detroit at Congregation Shaarey Zedek in Southfield on Monday to stand with Israel after the deadly terrorist attacks from Hamas over the weekend.

As Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has fought to help protect houses of worship and other nonprofit institutions that are under threat from terrorist attacks. In August, Peters announced that $7.5 million in grant funding would be awarded to nonprofits, including faith-based organizations, across Michigan to help secure their facilities – such as synagogues, mosques, gurdwaras, and other houses of worship – from threats of violence. In recent years, Peters also led bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the program and ensure it has sufficient funding.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-cosponsors-bipartisan-bill-replenish-israels-iron-dome-missile,Rep. Scholten Cosponsors Bipartisan Bill to Replenish Israel’s “Iron Dome” Missile Defense System,2023-10-12,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) cosponsored the bipartisan “Operation Swords of Iron” Iron Dome Supplemental Appropriations Act, which will provide $2 billion to replenish Israel’s “Iron Dome” missile defense system.

“In the face of horrific and barbaric terrorist attacks at the hands of Hamas and Hezbollah, the United States must do everything it can to help Israel defend itself,” said Rep. Scholten.“This emergency funding will be critical to our democratic ally’s effort to ward off incoming attacks and save innocent lives across the region.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-scholten-urges-state-department-help-americans-flee-violence-israel,Rep. Scholten Urges State Department to Help Americans Flee Violence in Israel,2023-10-11,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) and a bipartisan group of lawmakers penned a letter to U.S. Department of State Secretary Antony Blinken urging the agency to allow for evacuation flights for American citizens fleeing Israel amid terrorist attacks by Hamas.

“As you are aware, airlines have canceled most flights out of Ben Gurion Airport, and some have suspended operations in the region. As the number of casualties continues to rise, our constituents who remain in Israel fear for their lives,” wrote the lawmakers.

“At this harrowing moment in Israel’s history, it is more important than ever that every American who is looking to return home have the opportunity to do so,” the lawmakers concluded.

In the letter, the bipartisan group requested that Secretary Blinken direct the U.S. Embassy in Israel’s chief of mission to submit an evacuation request so President Biden can issue an executive order allowing for evacuation flights from Israel. The group also requested the agency help charter flights for Americans out of Israel in the event that an emergency order is not feasible.

Read the full letter below and here:

Dear Secretary Blinken,

Since Hamas’ indiscriminate attack on Israel Saturday morning, our offices have received harrowing reports from constituents who remain in Israel and are seeking to return to the United States as soon as possible. We write to express our grave concern for their wellbeing and safety. Given the rapidly escalating situation as Israel launches a counteroffensive, it is imperative that you request an evacuation of U.S. nationals in Israel.

Almost 50 years to the day of the start of the Yom Kippur War, Hamas terrorists crossed the border and began slaughtering Israelis and abducting hostages in towns in southern Israel. To date, thousands of lives—including 9 Americans—have been lost due to Hamas’ indiscriminate and brutal assault since Saturday. Hamas’ heinous actions also include taking over 150 Israeli hostages, which our offices have received reports that Americans are among those taken hostage in Gaza, including New Yorkers. It has been devastating to see the horrific accounts of those around the country taking shelter from the thousands of rockets launched from Gaza. This past weekend was meant to be one of happiness and celebration for the Jewish community. Instead, our constituents were left distraught and in tears fearing for the safety of their friends and loved ones in Israel.

While we appreciate the steps the Biden administration is taking to provide additional security assistance to Israel, we urge the State Department to use all resources at its disposal to help those Americans that remain in Israel return to the United States. As you are aware, airlines have canceled most flights out of Ben Gurion Airport, and some have suspended operations in the region. As the number of casualties continues to rise, our constituents who remain in Israel fear for their lives.

Given the fluid situation on the ground, we request that you immediately direct the U.S. Embassy’s chief of mission in Israel to submit an evacuation request so that the president can issue an executive order directing a Noncombatant Evacuation Operation (NEO). This EO would bring in the Department of Defense to help evacuate U.S. citizens. If this is not feasible at this moment, we request you begin the process to arrange charter flights to bring Americans home. As our allies and partners begin to explore options for their respective citizens that remain in Israel, we urge the Department to consider NEO and charter flights, simultaneously.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-thanedar-renounces-dsa-membership,Rep. Shri Thanedar Renounces DSA Membership,2023-10-11,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Shri Thanedar,T000488,thanedar.house.gov,thanedar,https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – October 11, 2023 – Today, I am officially renouncing my membership in the Democratic Socialists of America.

After the brutal terrorist attacks on Israel, which included the indiscriminate murder, rape, and kidnapping of innocent men, women, and children, I can no longer associate with an organization unwilling to call out terrorism in all its forms. Sunday’s hate-filled and antisemitic rally in New York City, promoted by the NYC-DSA, makes it impossible for me to continue my affiliation. I stand with Israel and its right to defend itself. There is no place for moral equivocation in the face of unadulterated evil as we have seen from Hamas.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-increase-federal-contracting-opportunities-for-women-owned-small-businesses,Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Federal Contracting Opportunities for Women-Owned Small Businesses,2023-10-11,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation to increase federal contracting opportunities for women-owned small businesses with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

The VA’s mission is to service the more than 27 million veterans who have selflessly served their country. To accomplish this mission, the VA acquires a high-quantity and broad spectrum of products and services through its nationwide system of hospitals, clinics, data processing centers, and National Cemeteries. The VA purchases these goods and services on a national, regional, and local level – from large and small businesses alike. However, the VA is currently not required by statute to prioritize federal contracting opportunities for the Small Business Administration’s Women-Owned Small Business Program – which helps provide a level playing field for women business owners in industries where they are underrepresented.

Peters’ Veterans Affairs Opportunity for Women Owned Small Businesses Act – which he introduced with U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) – would add the Women-Owned Small Business Program to the list of Small Business Administration programs that must be considered for federal contracting opportunities with the VA.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and women are a critical component of that success,” said Senator Peters, a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and member of the Armed Services Committee. “I’m leading this bipartisan bill to ensure small businesses owned and led by women have access to the valuable contracting opportunities offered by the VA to support their success and local economies throughout our state.”

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of our state’s economy, and risk-taking men and women demonstrate everyday what it means to ‘Make it in Michigan’ by fundamentally transforming their communities and creating places where people want to live, work, play, and stay,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr. CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “We appreciate Senator Peters continued bipartisan commitment to growing opportunities for our small businesses here in Michigan and across the nation.”

“This legislation will open doors for small businesses owned and run by women in Detroit and across Michigan to compete for VA contracts,” said Detroit Means Business President Dr. Marlo Rencher. “Access to government contracts can be game-changing for small businesses. We appreciate the Senator’s continued leadership in elevating small businesses.”

“Since the creation of IAVA’s #SheWhoBorneTheBattle campaign in 2017, IAVA has urged Congress to ensure equity for the women veteran community,” stated Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America CEO Allison Jaslow. “The VA Opportunity for Women-Owned Small Businesses Act makes it possible for more women veteran-owned businesses to qualify for small business program preferences at VA. IAVA applauds Senators Peters & Blackburn for their continued efforts to support the women veteran community.”

The Small Business Administration (SBA) uses special programs like the Women-Owned Small Business Program to help small businesses win at least at 23 percent of all federal contracting dollars each year. To qualify for this program, a business must be a small business according to SBA size standards, and be at least 51% owned and controlled by women who are U.S. citizens. One or more women must also be responsible for the management and long-term planning of the business.

Peters’ Veterans Affairs Opportunity for Women Owned Small Businesses Act is supported by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA).

Peters continues to be a strong advocate for Michigan’s servicemembers and veterans. In 2021, Peters was inducted into the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor for his efforts to support our nation’s veterans and military. In 2017, Peters was recognized as Legislator of the Year by the Vietnam Veterans of America for authoring the bipartisan Fairness for Veterans Act, which was signed into law. The legislation requires veteran discharge review boards to give liberal consideration to petitions for honorable discharge status if the servicemember has been diagnosed with PTSD, TBI or other related conditions connected to their military service. As of the fall of 2020, more than 1,500 veterans have had their discharges upgraded since his legislation was enacted.

Peters also helped enact into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act – which delivered VA health care and benefits to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans – and their survivors – for the first time in our nation’s history. Peters additionally passed into law bipartisan legislation to strengthen transparency and communication for veterans and caregivers participating in the VA’s caregiver program. His bipartisan legislation to expand apprenticeship opportunities for veterans and allow them to use their GI bill benefits to secure a registered apprenticeship was signed into law in 2020. Peters also fought for and helped secure a measure in the national defense bill to expand the Department of Veterans’ Affairs list of medical conditions associated with Agent Orange exposure to include bladder cancer, hypothyroidism, and Parkinsonism.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-increase-tribal-access-to-priority-resource-concern-determination-process,Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Tribal Access to Priority Resource Concern Determination Process,2023-10-10,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation to increase tribal visibility in the priority resource concern (PRC) determination process.

A priority resource concern (PRC) is currently defined as a natural resource concern or problem determined by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, and identified at the national, state, or local level. Peters’ Tribal Conservation Priorities Inclusion Act – which he introduced with U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) in June 2023 – would amend this definition to include tribes as entities that can identify PRCs. Adding tribes to the list of entities that can identify PRCs would increase tribal visibility during the PRC determination process and facilitate a deeper consideration of tribally driven concerns through National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) funding, which can be used to address soil erosion, surface and groundwater contamination, plant and animal health, and more. The NRCS is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) primary private lands conservation agency and provides financial assistance and personalized conservation planning to help producers meet their unique natural resource conservation and business goals.

“The process of identifying and determining natural resource concerns is critical to keeping our environment strong and healthy for future generations. We need to ensure our tribal communities, who have a deep understanding of these issues, have the ability to voice their concerns. I’m leading this bipartisan bill and working to get it passed through the upcoming Farm Bill to improve the inclusivity and effectiveness of this process,” said Senator Peters.

Peters’ bill would not require any changes to the PRC determination process – it simply enables states to take tribally identified environmental priorities into consideration. Peters is pushing for the bill to be included in the 2023 Farm Bill. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representative Joe Neguse (D-CO-2).

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-shri-thanedar-submits-the-environmental-health-workforce-act,Rep. Shri Thanedar Submits the Environmental Health Workforce Act,2023-10-06,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,MI,Shri Thanedar,T000488,thanedar.house.gov,thanedar,https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – October 6, 2023 – Today, Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13), ranking member on the Subcommittee of Transportation and Maritime Security, House Committee on Homeland Security, is proud to unveil the Environmental Health Workforce Act of 2023 to address the decline of vital environmental health professionals crucial to public safety. Since 2008, the U.S. has seen a 22% drop in these roles, and with the upcoming retirement of the Baby Boomer Generation, this strain is projected to deepen.

Highlights of the Act:

Establish model standards for environmental health worker credentialing.

Develop a tailored workforce development plan for environmental health needs.

Initiate a report on best practices for training and credentialing.

Extend Public Service Loan Forgiveness to eligible environmental health workers.

With crises like Flint's lead-contaminated pipelines and the COVID-19 pandemic emphasizing the need, this legislation aims to reverse the declining trend of these professionals by enhancing training and offering financial support.

""Our environmental health professionals are frontline defenders of community health” said Rep. Shri Thanedar. “This act is a step towards ensuring they're equipped and acknowledged.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-calls-for-immediate-legislative-action-to-support-ukraine,Peters Calls for Immediate Legislative Action to Support Ukraine,2023-10-06,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) called on congressional leadership in the U.S. House and Senate, as well as the chairs and ranking members of the U.S. House and Senate Appropriations Committees, to advance legislation that will provide critical and sustained security and economic support for Ukraine. In a letter with his colleagues, Peters called for immediate legislative action to guarantee that Ukraine is provided the vital resources necessary to continue to push back on Putin’s illegal and unjust invasion. Peters, who serves as Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, has been a strong advocate for U.S. support of Ukraine.

“It is past time for the U.S. Congress to take up and pass legislation guaranteeing Ukraine has the critical resources necessary to continue defending themselves against Putin’s illegal war,” Peters and the Senators wrote. “We urge you to act immediately to advance legislation that will provide critical and sustained security and economic support for Ukraine to the President’s desk for his signature.”

A copy of the letter can be found below:

We write to request urgent action to advance critical and sustained security assistance and economic support for Ukraine. We appreciate the bipartisan statement issued by Senate leadership over the weekend, reiterating that support for Ukraine remains a top legislative priority. Congress cannot sit idly by while Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine continues.

This past weekend, Congress came together to pass a bipartisan continuing resolution (CR) to keep the government funded and avoid an unnecessary and devastating government shutdown. We supported this important compromise to ensure a functioning United States government. However, we share our constituents’ frustration and concern that this package failed to include emergency funding necessary to support Ukraine in its response to Putin’s inhumane and illegal war. The bipartisan Senate CR included significant emergency funding for Ukraine, and we urge you to build on this work and put forward a bipartisan, bicameral funding package for Ukraine as soon as possible.

Now is not the time to slow our aid to Ukraine. Russian forces continue to bomb civilian populations – targeting hospitals, schools, churches, and apartment buildings. Such brutal, egregious violations of Ukrainian sovereignty and Ukrainian citizens’ basic human rights must not go unanswered. Our allies and partners continue to look to the United States to lead the effort to hold Russia accountable and stand up for democratic values and norms.

While Ukraine has started its counteroffensive and made progress in stemming the tide of the war, without sustained support, Ukraine’s aerial defense will falter, and munitions will run critically low. The Department of Defense (DOD) has exhausted nearly all available security assistance funding for Ukraine. While the Ukrainian soldiers are some the world’s best fighters, the Russian war machine funding is not stopping and dictators, like North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, are aligning themselves with their malign effort. Our resolve signals to bad actors around the world – including the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) – that the U.S. and world’s democracies will not let an authoritarian regime invade a sovereign nation.

Our states are home to thousands of members of the Ukrainian diaspora. We hear from them daily, and they remind us of the importance of continuing our commitment to helping Ukrainians defend themselves and their homes. They have shared stories about their friends and family members who are living under constant threat of indiscriminate aerial bombing of civilian targets. We must follow their lead and reaffirm that American leadership remains committed to democracy and human rights.

Two weeks ago, President Zelenskyy addressed Members of Congress and made clear the vital need for additional aid. We appreciate the commitment exhibited both by President Biden and Senate leadership toward meeting President Zelenskyy’s call for action. Now that a government shutdown has been averted, we must provide Ukraine the resources necessary to defend themselves.

It is past time for the U.S. Congress to take up and pass legislation guaranteeing Ukraine has the critical resources necessary to continue defending themselves against Putin’s illegal war. We urge you to act immediately to advance legislation that will provide critical and sustained security and economic support for Ukraine to the President’s desk for his signature.

Thank you for your attention to this critical priority.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-peters-pushes-commerce-secretary-to-ensure-the-chips-act-continues-to-invest-in-michigans-economy-and-the-future-of-the-auto-industry,VIDEO: Peters Pushes Commerce Secretary to Ensure the CHIPS Act Continues to Invest in Michigan’s Economy and the Future of the Auto Industry,2023-10-06,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – During a Senate Commerce Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) emphasized the importance of investing in Michigan’s economy and the future of the U.S. auto industry through the CHIPS and Science Act, which Peters helped author and enact. Peters urged U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to ensure that funding from the law is committed to domestic manufacturing of mature semiconductor chips, which are used in automobiles, as well as other semiconductor related components. Reducing our reliance on foreign manufacturers and boosting domestic production of these components will strengthen our global economic competitiveness and our national security.

“One of the primary goals of the CHIPS and Science Act was to address a crisis in the automotive supply chain that was preventing consumers from being able to purchase vehicles and resulting in furloughs of auto workers due to mature chip shortages,” said Senator Peters. “Your department has pledged to spend $10 billion in CHIPS funding to fix that…. but in addition to making more mature chips here, we must also use the CHIPS and Science Act to invest in the future of the automotive industry – and that means research and development.”

“Michigan stakeholders have already mobilized to meet that challenge – and one example is the STAR initiative to establish a semiconductor center of excellence in Michigan. Led by the internationally renowned research center, IMEC, semiconductor equipment manufacturer KLA, the University of Michigan and Washtenaw Community College, the STAR initiative will focus on advancing microelectronics research for vehicle electrification and autonomous automotive solutions. These innovative solutions will help cement the United States leadership not only in the future of semiconductors, but also in the future of the automotive industry,” he continued.

In response, Secretary Raimondo committed to working with Senator Peters to ensure the CHIPS and Science Act continues to invest in research and development and job training, including in the auto industry.

Peters also secured a commitment from Secretary Raimondo to strengthen semiconductor supply chains by prioritizing “advanced packaging” of chips, which is the process by which semiconductor chips are prepared to be integrated into technology like satellites, jet fighters, or automobiles. Calumet Electronics in Calumet, Michigan, which manufactures printed circuit boards (PCBs) and “organic substrates” which carry and connect semiconductor chips, is a national leader in this process, especially for more advanced defense industry applications.

“Advanced packaging, which is a significant part of the chip supply chain… needs significant focus as part of our onshoring efforts,” Senator Peters said. “Calumet Electronics in Calumet, Michigan – with the help of incredible engineers from the Michigan Technological University up in Houghton – is doing incredible work on advanced packaging, particularly by making very advanced printed circuit boards for defense applications, and they're expanding their capacity.”

In response, Secretary Raimondo agreed that the lack of domestic advanced packaging is a national security issue that could undercut the success of the CHIPS and Science Act. She committed to developing a strategy and releasing it later this year to bring more opportunities to manufacture circuit boards and substrates vital to an innovative advanced packaging ecosystem in the United States.

To watch video of Senator Peters’ questioning, click here or on the image below.

Increasing investments in Michigan’s economy and American manufacturing has been one of Peters’ top priorities in the Senate. The CHIPS and Science Act included Peters’ bipartisan Investing in Domestic Semiconductor Manufacturing Act, which would ensure that all parts of the U.S. semiconductor supply chain are eligible for incentives included in the law. It also includes a provision Senator Peters authored establishing at least $2 billion in funding for domestic production of mature chips, which are used in automotive manufacturing. The CHIPS and Science Act also authorized increased funding for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program and in the most recent government funding bill signed into law, Peters secured an additional $188 million for MEPs like Michigan’s Manufacturing Technology Center, which supports small and medium-sized manufacturers across the state.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-leads-bipartisan-colleagues-to-introduce-bill-removing-presidential-authority-to-provide-aid-to-azerbaijan-following-attacks-on-armenian-people,Peters Leads Bipartisan Colleagues to Introduce Bill Removing Presidential Authority to Provide Aid to Azerbaijan following Attacks on Armenian People,2023-10-05,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) led a bipartisan group of his colleagues, including U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and John Kennedy (R-LA), to introduce legislation that would prevent the U.S. from providing security assistance to Azerbaijan until it has been determined that they are not taking offensive action against the Armenians. The Senators introduced the legislation in response to the unilateral seizure, by force of arms, of Nagorno-Karabakh by Azerbaijan.

“The Azerbaijani government has made it clear – it will use its military resources to eliminate the presence of Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh.” said Senator Peters. “The United States cannot be complicit in Azerbaijani violence against the Armenian people. We must pass this legislation to block additional American aid to Azerbaijan until it puts an end to its aggression in the region.”

“It’s absurd that our nation has provided security assistance to Azerbaijan for decades, despite existing law requiring the President to certify that Azerbaijan is not taking offensive action against Armenian,” said Senator Rubio. “This bill is an important first step, as would be sanctioning Azerbaijani officials under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act.”

“The United States must take a stand to make sure the Azerbaijani government does not inflict further suffering on ethnic Armenians,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to help introduce this bipartisan legislation, which is intended to hold Azerbaijan accountable for its actions in Nagorno-Karabakh.”

“Through the 907 waiver authority, Americans saw their tax money used to provide weapons to Azerbaijan to attack lands where Armenians have lived for centuries. That is not only wrong, it’s perverse. This bill withdraws that authority,” said Dr. Cassidy.

“The United States must send a clear message that we will not support the Azeri regime as it continues its campaign of ethnic cleansing against Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh,” said Senator Van Hollen. “That’s why, in the face of its continued aggression and its blocking of critical humanitarian assistance, the Administration should immediately revoke Azerbaijan’s access to U.S. security assistance.”

The Armenian Protection Act would end U.S. assistance to the Azerbaijani government that is currently allowed under a waiver to Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act. Although the Freedom Support Act generally prohibits most bilateral assistance to Azerbaijan, following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, waiver authority was added to Section 907 granting additional discretion to the President to provide aid to Azerbaijan. The waiver authority has been invoked annually by Presidents of both parties since 2002 and the Biden Administration is still reviewing its waiver authority for 2023.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-peters-advocates-for-michigan-airports-at-hearing-with-faa-nominee,VIDEO: Peters Advocates for Michigan Airports at Hearing with FAA Nominee,2023-10-05,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – As a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) advocated for efforts to strengthen and support Michigan airports during a confirmation hearing for Michael Whitaker, the nominee to become Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Peters underscored the need to protect rural air service and hold airlines accountable to their commitments under the FAA’s Essential Air Service (EAS) program, which is essential to rural airports, communities, and businesses in Michigan and across the country. Peters also secured a commitment from Whitaker to ensure that, if confirmed, he will work on a plan to replace a 60-year-old air traffic control tower at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, Michigan to help the airport expand and modernize to accommodate its rapidly growing demand. Peters additionally emphasized the need to end toxic PFAS contamination at airports and address workforce shortages, including by passing the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023, which Peters is helping to write as a member of the Senate Commerce Committee.

To watch video of Senator Peters questioning FAA Administrator nominee Michael Whitaker about these priorities, click here or on the image below.

Below is a transcript of Peters’ questions and Whitaker’s answers at the hearing:

PROTECTING ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE IN MICHIGAN

Peters: As Michigan’s senator, I have the privilege of representing 9 rural airports that are served by Essential Air Service program. That is the most of any state in the lower 48, and many of those airports are in Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula and host only a couple of round trips per day. In fact, I'm going to take one of those aircraft on Friday up to one of those northern Michigan cities that is serviced through EAS.

The proposed Senate FAA reauthorization bill this year includes a provision that I championed that would hold airlines accountable when they break their contracts with these small communities who rely on them for service. It’s absolutely essential that they continue to get this service. And under the proposed new EAS rules, it would be harder for airlines to terminate contracts early, and the Department of Transportation would be empowered to penalize airlines that abandon these EAS communities. I believe this is essential to preventing uncertainty and lapses in services and communities like Houghton, Michigan, which experienced this very issue last year.

So my question for you, sir, is, if confirmed, will you work with Congress to protect the Essential Air Service Program and hold airlines accountable to the communities that they serve in rural areas, not just in my state but all across the country?

Whitaker: Yes, sir. I believe that the EAS program and our network of smaller airports is really key to our system, and I will do work with you to support the appropriate safety mechanisms and infrastructure in those airports and then work with DOT on administrating that program.

ADVOCATING TO UPDATE CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE AT GRAND RAPIDS AIRPORT

Peters: Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, Michigan is Michigan’s second largest airport. It sees well over 200 aircraft operations each and every day, and it serves a very rapidly growing part of our state as well. However, even as Grand Rapids serves record numbers of passengers, it’s been stymied in its efforts to expand and modernize because of a 60-year-old FAA air traffic control tower that the agency has not acted to replace. And that’s why last year I secured $5 million in congressionally directed spending for the airport to begin the design process to replace the tower. But clearly the job's not done yet.

My question for you is will you commit to working with me and the Grand Rapids airport to ensure that there’s a plan to replace their tower in a timely fashion if confirmed?

Whitaker: Yes, sir, I will.

FIGHTING TO END PFAS CONTAMINATION AT AIRPORTS

Peters: I have also long advocated for the FAA to transition away from the use of toxic PFAS-containing firefighting foams. Last year, President Biden signed into law my Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act, which will allow airports to purchase the equipment they need to test their firefighting response without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals. This year, the proposed FAA Reauthorization Bill includes provisions that I championed to ensure a quick transition to these new non-PFAS firefighting foam alongside financial resources for airports to make that transition.

Michigan airports continue to lead the way on this issue but they need a strong partner in the FAA to fully transition away from the use of these chemicals to protect our communities, to protect our firefighters, from contamination. If confirmed, I’d like to certainly get your commitment to work with airports to end the use of PFAS in aviation and your thoughts generally on this challenge?

Whitaker: Thank you, Senator. I'm new to the issue, but I understand the FAA has been doing work and following the DoD guidance on transitioning from the fluorine-free foams and also looking for new forms of product to fight fires effectively. So, we will continue to have that engagement with you.

ADDRESSING WORKFORCE SHORTAGES & PROMOTING WOMEN IN AVIATION

Peters: Mr. Whitaker, in your questionnaire, you said one of your top 3 priorities is rebuilding the FAA workforce for the future. I certainly agree that our focus must be on building a robust workforce of air traffic controllers, pilots, maintenance technicians, aviation engineers, and other workers. I also believe we can’t meet this goal without doing more to recruit and retain women in these fields. Currently, 5 percent of airline pilots are women and even fewer serve in the other aviation fields.

I heard directly from a Michigander who served on the FAA’s Women In Aviation Advisory Board, Kelly Jost, about the work the Board did to direct FAA, industry, and Congressional action to support women in the industry, and that’s why I introduced the Promoting Women in Aviation Act and I’m fighting to have it included in the FAA Reauthorization package. Can you speak to the importance of building a strong aviation workforce pipeline and finding ways to recruit and retain women in these critical positions?

Whitaker answered: I think casting as broad a net as we can and making it as inclusive as possible is necessary. We need a lot of folks to have interest in aviation and all those jobs you’ve mentioned. So, I do support that.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-confirmation-of-susan-declercq-to-be-united-states-district-court-judge-in-the-eastern-district-of-michigan,"Peters, Stabenow Announce Confirmation of Susan DeClercq to be United States District Court Judge in the Eastern District of Michigan",2023-10-04,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced the U.S. Senate has confirmed Susan DeClercq to be U.S. District Court Judge for the Eastern District of Michigan.

DeClercq was nominated by President Biden on May 3. On June 7, the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing considering her nomination. A video of the hearing can be found here. A video of Senator Peters’ remarks can be found here, and a video of Senator Stabenow’s remarks can be found here.

“Susan DeClercq is a public servant, whose staunch commitment to defending justice, civil rights, and our Constitution will serve the people of Michigan well,” said Senator Peters. “She is exceptionally qualified with an outstanding legal career that reflects her integrity and utmost respect for American institutions and democracy. I was honored to help confirm her to the U.S. federal bench.”

“Susan DeClercq will be an outstanding U.S. District Court Judge in the Eastern District of Michigan. Her time in the U.S. Attorney’s office and in other roles in Michigan have demonstrated her thoughtfulness and intellect. Her confirmation is great news for Michigan,” said Senator Stabenow.

Susan K. DeClercq has been Director and Counsel of Special Investigations at Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, Michigan since 2022. Ms. DeClercq previously served as an Assistant U.S Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan from 2004 to 2022, where she had several leadership roles, including serving as Chief of the Civil Division. Ms. DeClercq worked for Skadden, Arps, Slate, and Meagher & Flom in Washington, D.C. as a litigation associate from 2001 to 2004. From 1999 to 2001, she served as a law clerk for Judge Avern Cohn on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. Ms. DeClercq received her J.D., magna cum laude, from Wayne State University School of Law in 1999 and her B.A. from the University of Michigan in 1995.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z