url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/signed-into-law-senators-hassan-and-cornyns-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-border-security,SIGNED INTO LAW: Senators Hassan and Cornyn’s Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Border Security,2024-12-30,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The President recently signed into law the DHS Border Services Contracts Review Act, which U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced. The bipartisan legislation requires the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to assess contracts for services performed along the U.S.-Mexico border and implement a plan to improve procurement and delivery of those services. “We need to continue working across the aisle to strengthen border security,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation is one additional way to better achieve that mission, and I am pleased that the President has signed it into law. It will help ensure that the Department of Homeland Security and its contractors are operating as effectively as possible at the border.” The DHS Office of Inspector General has previously reported instances when U.S. Customs and Border Protection failed to timely contract for adequate facilities at the Southern border. Senators Hassan and Cornyn’s legislation will mitigate this issue by requiring the DHS Under Secretary for Management to assess contracts valued at a minimum of $50 million for services performed by contractor personnel along the Southern border. DHS will also be required to develop a strategy and implementation plan to improve procurement and delivery of services. As part of the analysis, DHS is required to consider the impact of contracts on the ability of Border Patrol agents to carry out their primary mission responsibilities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-statement-on-death-of-former-president-jimmy-carter,Senator Hassan Statement on Death of Former President Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan released the following statement regarding the death of former President Jimmy Carter: “Jimmy Carter dedicated his life to building a more equitable country and world. As President, he strengthened our education system, protected the environment, and helped make possible the historic peace treaty between Israel and Egypt. In the years following his presidency, he continued to lead international peace-keeping efforts and championed human rights. ""President Carter made it his mission to improve the lives of Americans and people around the world. His commitments to building a more perfect union and advancing peace have helped to leave this world better than he found it. I join with people across New Hampshire, our country, and the world today in mourning his loss, and my prayers are with his loved ones at this time."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-statement-on-passing-of-us-president-jimmy-carter,Shaheen Statement on Passing of U.S. President Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement on the passing of U.S. President Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States of America: “I’m devastated by the passing of my mentor and friend, Jimmy Carter, and join the nation in grieving the loss of this incredible leader,” said Shaheen. “He led this country with empathy, grace and determination, and I owe my journey in politics to him. From working on his primary presidential campaign in New Hampshire in 1975, I became inspired by his compassion for people and vision to make this country a better place. The values he passionately advocated for inspired my run for office, and I’ve made it my mission in the Senate to take the mantle of fighting for working families and justice. We have lost a titan of American politics, but our country is better for his unwavering service. I join with all Granite Staters in keeping the Carter family in our thoughts. May he rest in peace.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/signed-into-law-senators-hassan-and-cornyns-bipartisan-bill-to-help-prevent-child-abuse,SIGNED INTO LAW: Senators Hassan and Cornyn's Bipartisan Bill to Help Prevent Child Abuse,2024-12-27,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) released the following statements after their Jenna Quinn Law, which would allow current grant funds to be used to train and educate students, teachers, caregivers, and other adults who work with children in a professional or volunteer capacity on how to prevent, recognize, and report child sexual abuse, was signed into law earlier this week. The bill is named for Jenna Quinn, a Texan and child abuse survivor, and is modeled after successful reforms passed by the Texas Legislature in 2009. “Inspired by Texan Jenna Quinn, our landmark legislation modeled after successful reforms in Texas will ensure every student, teacher, and caregiver across the country has the tools to recognize and prevent abuse of vulnerable children,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law is years in the making, and I want to thank the bill’s namesake, Jenna Quinn, Representatives Moran and McCaul, and all of my colleagues in Congress for their support.” “Members of both parties are united in our mission to find additional ways to keep children safe from sexual abuse,” said Sen. Hassan. “Our bipartisan legislation will help ensure that parents, teachers, and other community members receive evidence-based training to help protect children from sexual abuse."" “Every child deserves protection from abuse. Ensuring all adults, teachers, and caregivers are equipped with the knowledge to identify, prevent, and report child sexual abuse is a necessary and life-saving mechanism,” said Sen. Luján. “Jenna’s Law is implemented across several states – including New Mexico – and should be federally recognized. I’m proud that this legislation was signed into law, bringing us one step closer to providing funding to train and educate students, teachers, and parents on best practices to prevent and report abuse.” Sen. Mike Braun (R-IN) also cosponsored this legislation, and Representatives Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Michael McCaul (TX-10), and Susan Wild (PA-07) led the legislation in the House. Background: Jenna Quinn has been an outspoken advocate for survivors of child sexual abuse and was the driving force behind what is now known as Jenna’s Law in Texas. Unanimously passed by the Texas Legislature, Jenna’s Law was the first child sexual abuse prevention law in the U.S. that mandates K-12 trainings for students and school staff and was amended in 2017 to include sex trafficking prevention education in schools. More than half of all states have adopted a form of Jenna’s Law. After Jenna’s Law passed in Texas in 2009, a study found educators reported child sexual abuse at a rate almost four times greater after training than during their pre-training career. The Jenna Quinn Law will: Authorize federal grants to eligible entities for increasing evidence-based or informed training on sexual abuse prevention education and reporting to teachers and school employees, students, caregivers, and other adults who work with children; And ensure these grant recipients coordinate with local educational agencies to train students, professionals, and volunteers who work with students on sexual abuse prevention, recognition, and reporting. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/signed-into-law-senators-hassan-and-hyde-smiths-bipartisan-legislation-to-benefit-national-guard-reserve-students,"SIGNED INTO LAW: Senators Hassan and Hyde-Smith’s Bipartisan Legislation to Benefit National Guard, Reserve Students",2024-12-27,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, the annual defense bill signed into law earlier this week includes bipartisan legislation from U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) to ensure that students who serve in the National Guard or Reserves will be guaranteed readmission to their schools following a mobilization. “Students in the Reserves and the National Guard sacrifice to serve their communities and our country, and they shouldn’t have to jeopardize their spot in school because they were called to duty,” said Senator Hassan. “I am pleased that the latest national defense bill provides a measure that will ensure that student National Guard and Reserve members who are mobilized for short missions will have the security of knowing that their spot in school will be waiting for them.” “Many Guard and Reserve deployments last fewer than 30 days, putting numerous students who have volunteered to serve our nation at risk of having their educational pursuits derailed,” Hyde-Smith said. “I’m pleased the FY2025 NDAA includes an overdue fix to this problem.” The SERVE Act removes a “more than 30 days” stipulation in the law that only requires colleges and universities to readmit servicemembers who are deployed for more than 30 days. Prior to this bill, National Guard and Reserve members mobilized for fewer than 30 days were not universally entitled to be promptly readmitted. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/signed-into-law-hassan-backed-bipartisan-bill-to-support-autism-research,SIGNED INTO LAW: Hassan-Backed Bipartisan Bill to Support Autism Research,2024-12-26,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – A bipartisan bill, backed by U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan, to support autism education, research, and resources has been signed into law. The Autism CARES Act of 2024 renews and expands federal support for research, services, and training related to autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. Senator Hassan, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, & Pensions (HELP) Committee, helped advance this legislation through the Senate. “Individuals with autism deserve the best opportunities possible to thrive,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation will help advance autism research and education efforts. I am glad that the President has signed this bill into law, and I will continue to work to support people who experience disabilities.” This legislation is part of Senator Hassan’s ongoing efforts to support people who experience disabilities. In May, Senator Hassan’s provision to increase access to universal changing stations in airports was signed into law as part of the bipartisan Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization. Additionally, Senator Hassan helped secure funding to help families of children experiencing disabilities navigate the special education process and better access the resources available for children experiencing disabilities as part of a bipartisan government funding package. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/01/06/2025/signed-into-law-annual-defense-bill-with-key-hassan-backed-provisions,SIGNED INTO LAW: Annual Defense Bill with Key Hassan-Backed Provisions,2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The President signed into law the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025, including key provisions that Senator Maggie Hassan secured and supported. Among other measures, the legislation includes a 14.5 percent pay raise for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5 percent raise for all other service members. “Service members sacrifice to keep our country safe, secure, and free, and our bipartisan annual defense bill will further support them in their mission,” said Senator Hassan. “This bill will also strengthen our national security – including by taking on China – and it delivers for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and other New Hampshire priorities.” Key measures to strengthen national security and support service members supported by Senator Hassan: The SERVE Act, introduced by Senators Hassan and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), which will guarantee readmission to colleges and universities for National Guard and Reserve members after a mobilization or deployment A 14.5 percent pay raise for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5 percent pay raise for all service members Taking on China and Russia by: Prohibiting the Defense Department from contracting with any entity that provides semiconductor products to Chinese telecom company Huawei Strengthening intelligence sharing to help counter Chinese trafficking of fentanyl and fentanyl precursors Increasing investments in the Pacific Deterrence Initiative and establishing the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative Directing the Defense Department to report on its efforts to identify and apply lessons learned from the war in Ukraine in order to strengthen U.S. national security efforts Establishing a counter-UAS (commonly referred to as drones) task force for U.S. military installations; requiring a counter-UAS strategy for Defense Department facilities, assets, and personnel in the U.S.; and providing greater resources for counter-UAS technologies Increasing access to contraception by eliminating co-pays for women covered by TRICARE New Hampshire priorities that are included in the NDAA: Exempting public shipyard employees (including those at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard) from being required to stay in government or preferred housing when traveling for official duty Supporting infrastructure at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, including multi-mission dry dock military construction and power plant resiliency improvement Supporting Virginia Class submarines, which are repaired at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Funding to procure KC-46A Pegasus refueling tankers, which are flown by Air Force units, including the New Hampshire Air National Guard at Pease Air National Guard Base Continuing PFAS cleanup and research efforts ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-backed-bill-to-protect-social-security-benefits-to-become-law,Pappas-Backed Bill to Protect Social Security Benefits to Become Law,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Pappas helped lead the bipartisan effort to force a vote on this legislation in the House WASHINGTON, DC - On Friday night, the Senate passed legislation supported by Congressman Pappas (NH-01) which would safeguard the hard-earned Social Security benefits of millions of Americans. The Social Security Fairness Act, which Pappas fought to passed in November, would eliminate the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) that unfairly reduce or eliminate Social Security benefits for millions of Americans working in public service, including federal employees, police officers, firefighters, and educators. “Hard-working Americans deserve the earned benefits that they paid into, whether it is Social Security, a pension, or both,” said Congressman Pappas. “Yet, for over 40 years, the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset have been unfairly reducing or eliminating the Social Security benefits of public servants that have paid into the program. This bipartisan legislation will eliminate these provisions to fix this wrongdoing for our police, firefighters, teachers, postal workers, and all public servants who pay into Social Security and have a pension. I’m pleased that this bill has now passed the House and Senate with bipartisan support, and I urge the President to sign it into law.” Currently, the WEP reduces the earned Social Security benefits of an individual who also receives a public pension from a job not covered by Social Security. For example, educators who do not earn Social Security in public schools but who work part-time or during the summer in jobs covered by Social Security have reduced benefits, even though they pay into the system just like others. Likewise, the GPO affects the spousal benefits of people who work as federal, state, or local government employees, including police officers, firefighters, and educators, if the job is not covered by Social Security. The GPO reduces by two-thirds the benefit received by surviving spouses who also collect a government pension. The WEP currently impacts approximately 2 million Social Security beneficiaries, and the GPO impacts nearly 800,000 retirees. This bipartisan legislation is endorsed by the International Association of Firefighters, the National Association of Police Organizations, the American Postal Workers Union, and more.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-statement-on-averting-a-shutdown,Senator Hassan Statement on Averting a Shutdown,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) issued the following statement on the vote last night to continue government funding and avert a shutdown: “Government shutdowns have real and severe impacts on the American people, including by risking our national security and threatening livelihoods – which is why it is important that we voted on a bipartisan basis to avert a shutdown. The legislation we passed also includes vital disaster relief funding and economic assistance for farmers. “But I want to be clear – the only reason that we were on the brink of a shutdown is because House Republicans caved to President-elect Donald Trump and Elon Musk, who at the last minute opposed a bipartisan deal reached after months of negotiations. That bipartisan agreement included crucial measures that were left out of the bill we passed last night, including ones that would have lowered health care costs and strengthened efforts to prevent and treat addiction. Moving forward, I urge my colleagues to work in good faith to find common ground and deliver for the American people.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-statement-on-passage-of-the-continuing-resolution-to-keep-the-government-open-provide-disaster-funding-to-support-new-hampshire-farmers,"Shaheen Statement on Passage of the Continuing Resolution to Keep the Government Open, Provide Disaster Funding to Support New Hampshire Farmers",2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee and Chair of the Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, today issued the following statement after Congress passed a continuing resolution that will keep the government funded through March 14, 2025, and provide $110 billion in disaster supplemental funding to help farmers and communities: “I’m relieved we came to a deal to keep the government open and provide disaster funding for communities and farmers. It’s unfortunate that a billionaire and President-elect Trump came in at the 11th hour to reject the deal Democrats and Republicans had spent months working on that would have not only kept the government open and provided disaster aid, but also would have funded critical services that Granite State families rely on and reformed pharmacy benefit managers that are responsible for skyrocketing costs of prescription drugs. “In the future, I hope that we can get back to this bipartisan agreement that included provisions to improve our health care system, support workforce development and provide for our seniors. “Americans want us to work together to make their lives better. I’m glad we’ve worked to avoid a disastrous government shutdown, and moving forward, I hope both parties can work together to avert such unnecessary crises in the future.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-statement-on-vote-to-prevent-government-shutdown,Pappas Statement on Vote to Prevent Government Shutdown,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement after voting to pass legislation to prevent a government shutdown: “Today, I voted to keep our government open, fund vital services that Americans rely on, and safeguard the paychecks of our active duty and reserve military service members. I’m pleased that this legislation also provides badly needed disaster relief funds and supports American farmers. Moving forward, I remain committed to working in a bipartisan manner to meet the needs of New Hampshire families and address the pressing issues faced by Granite Staters.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-recognizes-david-bugbee-of-concord-as-decembers-granite-stater-of-the-month,Senator Hassan Recognizes David Bugbee of Concord as December’s Granite Stater of the Month,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan recognized David Bugbee of Concord as December’s Granite Stater of the Month. David has been regularly donating blood since he was 17 years old, helping countless Granite Staters through his donations. David was first inspired to donate blood by his father, who donated regularly when David was a child. When David was 17, he saw a flyer at his Manchester college and, remembering his father’s frequent donations, decided to go. After his first donation, David knew that this would be a meaningful way in which he could help others – and now, at 71, he has given blood more than 200 times. Blood donations can be used for many different purposes in a hospital or emergency setting, and hospitals rely on volunteers like David to collect enough supply for patients in need. Donating blood is David’s way of giving back to his community and he says that he has gotten used to the sensation of giving a pint of blood. He regularly visits his donation center in Concord to give blood, and he appreciates the Red Cross workers who run the center. David’s selfless commitment to regularly donating blood is a great example of the Granite State spirit of helping other people in any way possible. Senator Hassan launched the “Granite Stater of the Month” initiative in 2017 to recognize outstanding New Hampshire citizens who go above and beyond to help their neighbors and make their communities stronger. To nominate a New Hampshire citizen to be a “Granite Stater of the Month,” constituents can complete the nomination form here. To read Senator Hassan’s statement for the Congressional Record, see below. I am honored to recognize David Bugbee of Concord as December’s Granite Stater of the Month. David, who is 71 years old, has been donating blood, regularly, since he was 17, helping countless Granite Staters and others in our region through this precious gift. David was first inspired to donate blood by his father. As a child, David remembers going with his dad to regular blood donation appointments, although at the time he didn’t realize that’s what his father was doing. Eventually he grew curious about the little square bandage he noticed his dad sporting after these appointments and asked what the appointments were. When he was 17 years old, David saw a flyer for a blood drive at his Manchester college, and, remembering his dad’s frequent donations, decided to go. After his first donation, David knew that this would be a meaningful way in which he could help others – and since then, he has given blood more than 200 times. Donating blood is David’s way of giving back to his community. Blood donations can be used for many different purposes in a hospital or emergency setting, and hospitals rely on volunteers like David to collect enough supply for patients in need. David has said that he counts himself lucky to have had jobs that have always allowed him to leave for blood donation appointments during the day. He does not find it a bother at all to give a pint of blood and has gotten used to the sensation, even saying that the period of rest that is required after donating can give him a little break in his day to sit down afterward and eat a snack. A lifelong Granite Stater, David regularly visits his donation center in Concord to give blood, and he appreciates the Red Cross workers who run the center. He has especially noticed that they always show their gratitude to those who donate. David’s selfless commitment to regularly donating blood is a great example of the Granite State spirit of helping other people in any way possible. As we celebrate the holiday season and reflect on ways in which we can support our fellow Granite Staters, I am proud to name David December’s Granite Stater of the Month. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-hassan-and-boozman-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-make-it-easier-for-veterans-to-schedule-medical-appointments,Senators Hassan and Boozman Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Make it Easier for Veterans to Schedule Medical Appointments,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and John Boozman (R-AR), members of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, introduced the Improving Veteran Access to Care Act, bipartisan legislation to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) health care scheduling process so that veterans can easily schedule multiple visits at once through one phone call or online. Currently, veterans do not have access to one centralized platform to schedule appointments for many types of VA-based specialty care. Veterans often prefer to schedule various specialist appointments that they need for the same day – in order to avoid multiple trips to the VA – but they must call individual clinics to set up appointments for specialty care. Attempting to coordinate multiple appointments through multiple phone calls and trips places a burden on all veterans, but particularly on those who must travel a long distance for appointments. The Senators’ Improving Veteran Access to Care Act would address this issue by requiring the VA to create a streamlined scheduling system where veterans can either call or go online to view and schedule appointments for all types of VA care. “After all they’ve given to our country, veterans should be able to get VA care that serves their needs and that respects their time – but the current VA system for scheduling multiple appointments is complicated and burdensome. This is especially true for veterans in rural areas who often must travel long distances to receive care,” said Senator Hassan. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill will create a more streamlined and user-friendly scheduling process, and will make it easier for veterans in New Hampshire and across the country to access the health care they have earned and deserve.” “Ensuring the VA can provide the resources and care our servicemembers earned and expect must always be a priority,” said Boozman. “By streamlining the medical appointment scheduling process for our veterans, we can remove inefficiencies that hinder this critical mission so they get the help they need in a timely fashion.” The bipartisan legislation is supported by Veterans Service Organizations including Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), the American Legion, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). “By establishing an integrated project team, the 'Improving Veteran Access to Care Act' aims to revolutionize the scheduling process for health care appointments within the Department of Veterans Affairs. This initiative focuses on timely delivery of care, enhanced access, improved customer experience, and greater efficiency, ultimately providing our veterans with the quality care they deserve. DAV would like to thank Senator Maggie Hassan and Senator John Boozman for introducing the 'Improving Veterans Access to Care Act,' which creates a team to improve the scheduling process for health care appointments and ensure our veterans receive timely access to care they have earned and urgently need,” said Jon Retzer, Deputy National Legislative Director for Health for Disabled American Veterans. The Improving Veteran Access to Care Act would require the VA to create an integrated project team that would coordinate with existing VA projects to improve appointment scheduling, with a focus on the following objectives: Creating a system that enables VA personnel and patients to view available appointments for all VA-based care; Creating a self-service online scheduling platform that allows VA patients to find and schedule VA health care appointments; and Creating a telephone process through which VA patients can make a single call to find and schedule VA health care appointments. This bipartisan bill is part of Senator Hassan’s ongoing work to support service members, veterans, and their families. She helped develop and pass into law the bipartisan PACT Act, a historic bill that fundamentally reforms and improves the ways in which veterans exposed to toxic substances receive health care and benefits from the VA. Earlier this year, the VA expanded health care eligibility under the PACT Act so that more veterans can get care. Senator Hassan also introduced and helped pass into law bipartisan legislation to strengthen the Solid Start program, through which VA employees contact every veteran three times by phone in the first year after veterans leave active duty service to check in and help connect these new veterans to VA programs and benefits. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-warns-against-impacts-of-republican-manufactured-shutdown-urges-colleagues-to-pass-bipartisan-agreement-to-keep-government-open-and-provide-disaster-relief,"Shaheen Warns Against Impacts of Republican-Manufactured Shutdown, Urges Colleagues to Pass Bipartisan Agreement to Keep Government Open and Provide Disaster Relief",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, took to the Senate floor to warn against the impacts of a possible Republican-manufactured government shutdown on Granite Staters, and called for her colleagues to pass the bipartisan agreement to keep the government open and provide disaster relief, including for funding that would go to New Hampshire farmers impacted by crop losses last year and to repair the Coast Guard’s Portsmouth station. You can watch the Senator’s full remarks here. Key quotes from Senator Shaheen: “President-elect Trump hasn't even been sworn in office yet and already he's thrown the government into chaos. That's really unfortunate because the people who are going to be hurt the most are the ones that we serve as representatives, as senators right here in Congress, and that's the American people.” “Shutting down the government just days before Christmas means that thousands of federal workers will be forced to work without pay. In New Hampshire, our farmers could lose out on disaster aid that they need to recover from devastating crop losses last year. The health clinics that are vital to Granite Staters will shutter. The Coast Guard wouldn't get the funding it needs for repairs at the Portsmouth station.” “The WIC program—women, infants and children—helps feed more than 12,000 people in New Hampshire, and if we don't act now, funding to continue to support thousands of women and newborns will be at risk. So, let me say it again: this harm is being inflicted on women, children and families, and it is avoidable.” “Democrats and Republicans negotiated in good faith. We agreed to keep the government open through a negotiated process. We agreed to provide disaster relief and to support critical needs for working families. We were ready to vote so we could keep the lights on here, so we could turn the Christmas lights on at home for so many working people across this country. And now because the world's richest man, Elon Musk, doesn't understand what this bill actually does or how government works, we're facing a shutdown that is going to force Americans to work without pay during the holidays. It’s going to leave communities in the lurch without the funding they need to rebuild from the recent natural disasters.” Remarks as delivered can be found below. I come to the floor today because the funding for the government is going to run out at midnight tomorrow night. And what’s happening right now in the House is a manufactured crisis that's been created by Donald Trump, President-elect, and his billionaire friend, Elon Musk, and the Republicans in the House of Representatives. Now, President-elect Trump hasn't even been sworn into office yet and already he's thrown the government into chaos. That's really unfortunate because the people who are going to be hurt the most are the ones that we serve as representatives, as senators right here in Congress, and that's the American people. Shutting down the government just days before Christmas means that thousands of federal workers will be forced to work without pay. In New Hampshire, our farmers could lose out on disaster aid that they need to recover from devastating crop losses last year. The health clinics that are vital to Granite Staters will shutter. The Coast Guard wouldn't get the funding it needs for repairs at the Portsmouth station, and that's particularly important because what those Coast Guard ships do is to escort in nuclear submarines to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. And everyone in Congress should know that one of our most fundamental responsibilities as elected officials is to keep the federal government open and operating. Instead, we're here today facing our fifth lapse in funding in 11 years all because there are a few extremists, who are being egged on by an unelected billionaire, are refusing to do their duty, and Speaker Johnson is allowing them to push us to the brink. We have seen repeatedly now that these shutdowns hurt the country. They hurt our states, they hurt our constituents. The 2019 shutdown cost the American economy more than $10 billion. And this shutdown, if it occurs, is likely to cost more than $2 billion a week. So, again, let me repeat that because for an incoming administration that claims to be focused on fiscal responsibility, that claims to be looking for efficiencies in government, what Elon Musk, the head of this commission that's supposed to look for efficiencies, what he's doing, is going to cost our country $2 billion each week. That doesn't sound like fiscal responsibility to me. And in New Hampshire, the effect of these shutdowns is felt across the state. If government shuts down, small businesses across New Hampshire may be unable to sign new contracts, start new projects. Just last year, 845 companies in New Hampshire received contracts from the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security, and during a government shutdown, these small businesses and their employees will be adversely affected. They won't be able to plan for the future—that would cause real uncertainty on the business owners and on their employees. Now, the supplemental emergency disaster funding would have addressed a number of critical needs that we have in New Hampshire. Like many other states, New Hampshire’s been hit by a number of disasters over the last few years. Now, we've been more fortunate than some of the states that our colleagues represent because we haven't been hit in the same way that Florida, the Carolinas, Virginia were by the hurricanes. But we still have very serious recovery needs. The disaster funding that's been paired with the continuing resolution would address some of New Hampshire's recovery needs. As I mentioned earlier, this unnecessary crisis would block disaster relief from getting to the farmers in New Hampshire and across the country who urgently need it. For example, in New Hampshire, our farmers experienced extreme losses in 2023 due to natural disasters from frost and flooding. I've heard from many apple growers from our stone crops—apples, peaches—that some of those farmers lost from 80 to 100 percent of their crops in 2023. While it doesn't seem like a lot of money, and not huge farms like we have in some parts of the country, for those farmers who are affected, it is their livelihood. And, unlike large single-crop farms in many other states, our small fruit and vegetable growers in New Hampshire typically don't have access to other federal agricultural support programs. More than 90 percent of our farmers in New Hampshire don't have crop insurance because crop insurance doesn't work for our farms. That's why this emergency disaster relief is just so critical. Another example for us in New Hampshire is our Coast Guard station in New Castle. It was severely damaged during January's storms. The seawall was breached in a number of places and the boathouse was wrenched from its mooring. As a result, the station is in need of significant repairs. The bill that's been negotiated and agreed to by Republicans and Democrats, the bill that the House now is saying they're not going to support, it would provide over $210 million to repair Coast Guard facilities around the country, including the New Castle station in New Hampshire. Now, unless these supplemental funds are appropriated, the station in New Hampshire will be more susceptible to future storm damage, it will need more extensive and expensive repairs in the future. Again, that doesn't sound like government efficiency to me; sounds like somebody’s not paying attention. And like almost every other state in the country, New Hampshire has been hit by a number of storms that have led to Presidential disaster declarations. Communities in our state are still rebuilding. So, the $29 billion that's in the disaster relief fund, are important for New Hampshire to ensure that this fund is solvent when cities, counties and towns submit reimbursements. The package that is on hold in the House also includes funding to address an emergency outbreak of spruce budworm that threatens forests in Maine and New Hampshire. And just to be clear, Mr. President, New Hampshire is the second most heavily forested state in the country, after Maine. We know that this outbreak is coming from Canada. It's affecting our states, and it could have a major impact on our timber industry if we don't do something about it now. The funding in the bill would allow us to address this before it wipes out significant portions of our timber stand. Last year I met with a group of housing stakeholders—homebuilders, realtors, housing developers, tenant advocates—to hear how a shutdown would worsen New Hampshire's existing housing crisis. We currently have a rental vacancy rate of .6 percent. We know that a healthy housing market usually has about a 5 percent vacancy rate. So, at .6 percent, we desperately need more housing. A shutdown will slow progress on construction. It will risk hundreds of housing units that are under construction now at a time when we really urgently need them. And for those low-income households who depend on mortgages that are backed by the Federal Housing Administration or the U.S. Department of Agriculture, they may miss out on buying their first homes because they won't be able to get a loan. Now, we've also heard from nonprofit organizations in New Hampshire who have shared that 44 percent of adults that they serve are reporting food insecurity, even at our current funding levels for women, infants and children. The WIC program—Women, Infants and Children—helps feed more than 12,000 people in New Hampshire. If we don't act now, funding to continue to support thousands of women and newborns will be at risk. So, let me say it again: this harm is being inflicted on women, children and families. And it is avoidable. Our colleagues in the House, the Republican majority, could end this today. They could end it right now if they would pass the deal that they negotiated—that has been months in negotiations, that both Democrats and Republicans, in both the House and Senate, have agreed to. Furthermore, in terms of the federal government, it employs more than two million Americans in civilian activities it across the country. Eighty percent of those federal workers are outside of Washington, D.C. In New Hampshire, there are about 5,000 federal workers—and a quarter of them are veterans. They're air traffic controllers, they’re Forest Service rangers, they’re Customs and Border Control agents, they’re safety inspectors. We have more than a million uniformed military, including 1,100 in New Hampshire, who may be affected. They'll be forced to work in defense and protection of our nation without getting paid. It is shameful and it is unacceptable. During the last shutdown, federal employees had to visit food banks to help get meals when they missed paychecks. And there is no guarantee that the employees of federal contractors will be able to get back pay. As we remember, the last time, we had to pass specific legislation to ensure that those people who lost their pay were able to get reimbursed. Now, I've also had the honor of serving as Chair of the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee for the past year. Small businesses are the lifeblood of New Hampshire's economy. In fact, they account for more than 99 percent of all the businesses in our state. Two-thirds of the jobs that are created, not just in New Hampshire, but across this country, come from small businesses. And yet the SBA has been unable to give out disaster loans for more than two months now. That leaves more than 10,000 hurricane survivors with approved loans that they're not going to get the funding for unless we pass this disaster funding. And this isn't a partisan issue. Thousands of families and businesses in Virginia, in North Carolina, in Florida, in Georgia, are waiting for these funds. They're in limbo. And here we are not even a week—less than a week before Christmas—and we're saying to all of those people who have been waiting for months, “I'm sorry, we're not going to fund you because billionaire Elon Musk said, ‘don't pass this legislation because it's too expensive.’” Well, he needs to look at what the cost is of not passing that legislation. And should the federal government close, it is not hyperbole to say that we will be leaving our most vulnerable without proper care this Christmas. I recently met with community health center leaders from New Hampshire. They talked about what they do in their communities. We know that our community health centers provide daily care for uninsured patients, for those who can't afford expensive health insurance, who live with terrible diseases like diabetes and cancer. Our community health centers are the cornerstone of our health care safety net and they rely on federal funding to keep their doors open and provide lifesaving care to Americans. But about 70 percent of community health center funding is going to expire if we don't pass the spending package. Should that funding disappear, health clinics across the country will be forced to close, and the communities they serve will suffer the consequences. The people who President-elect Trump promised to protect are the people who are going to get hurt. And if the shutdown drags on, inspections and enforcement that prevent air and water pollution will cease—that puts public health at risk especially in our most vulnerable communities. With a lapse in appropriations, the Forest Service has to stop issuing contracts, including for timber sales, which in New Hampshire, even for a short period of time, can have ripple effects through our local economies because we have towns that depend on that timber economy. A shutdown also leaves forest ranger stations in New Hampshire closed right as we're starting the winter recreation season. A prolonged government shutdown will lead to delays for food assistance to Meals on Wheels, where in New Hampshire, we have more than 20,000 seniors who are currently experiencing hunger if they don't get Meals on Wheels. Nationwide, more than 1.5 million meals are provided in states each year. So, a shutdown needlessly risks health and well-being. And we know the other thing that's in the package that the House is objecting to is the extension of telehealth benefits for people who need it. Again, an effective, efficient way to provide health care and they're objecting to it. As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Departments of Commerce and Justice as well as our science agencies, I'm also concerned that 84 percent of Department of Commerce employees—about 44,000—will be furloughed if we can't get a continuing resolution done to keep the government open. This includes National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration employees who protect life and property on the job. Also, we have 84 percent of Department of Justice staff who would be considered essential workers but would be forced to work without pay. We have a federal prison in northern New Hampshire that is very important. It's a medium security prison. And what we would be asking those correction officers, those other employees of the prison, is to work without pay, to take an IOU, until the government is funded again. So, I think this is actually very simple. Democrats and Republicans negotiated in good faith. We agreed to keep the government open through a negotiated process. We agreed to provide disaster relief and to support critical needs for working families. We were ready to vote so we could keep the lights on here, so we could turn the Christmas lights on at home for so many working people across this country. And now because the world's richest man, Elon Musk, doesn't understand what this bill actually does or how government works, we're facing a shutdown that is going to force Americans to work without pay during the holidays. It’s going to leave communities in the lurch without the funding they need to rebuild from the recent natural disasters. So, I urge speaker Johnson to do the right thing. Stick to the agreement he made just this week. Let's bring this deal to the floor. Let's get this done, and let's help the people across the country who need the support that we promised. Thank you, Mr. President. I yield the floor. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/romney-reed-moran-king-hassan-introduce-legislation-to-mitigate-extreme-ai-risks,"Romney, Reed, Moran, King, Hassan Introduce Legislation to Mitigate Extreme AI Risks",2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Mitt Romney (R-UT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Angus King (I-ME), and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) today introduced first of its kind legislation that deals exclusively with safeguarding U.S. national security against extreme risks—chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and cyber threats—posed by future developments in advanced AI models. The bipartisan Preserving American Dominance in AI Act, crafted based on the group’s previously-released framework, would establish the Artificial Intelligence Safety Review Office within the Department of Commerce. The Office would work with industry to defend frontier models against misuse by foreign adversaries looking to exploit the technology for nefarious purposes. The Office’s mission would be to prioritize the national security implications of AI while ensuring the U.S. domestic AI industry remains dominant over our foreign adversaries. This legislation is limited to frontier models—the most advanced AI models that are still yet to be developed. “AI has the potential to dramatically improve and transform our way of life, but it also comes with enormous risks to national security. We must safeguard this advanced technology from terrorists and adversaries looking to cause widespread harm,” Senator Romney said. “My colleagues and I have spent the last several months turning our framework into bipartisan legislation that would preserve America’s competitive edge in AI while also ensuring the most advanced models do not pose unchecked chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or cyber risks. It is my hope that our legislation will serve as a starting point for discussion on what actions Congress and the incoming administration should take on AI-enabled extreme risks—without hampering American innovation.” “While AI offers tremendous benefits, we must recognize the risks and take steps to ensure that this tool is not exploited by adversaries to threaten American security and leadership. This bipartisan bill would establish an AI Safety Review Office within the Department of Commerce to ensure the U.S. keeps pace with technology and responsibly supports innovation, opportunity, and discovery,” said Senator Reed. “The evolution of artificial intelligence is an opportunity for U.S. innovation, efficiency and strategic advantage,” said Senator Moran. “However, we must responsibly harness the power of AI and make certain we are mitigating extreme risks that would threaten our national security. After receiving feedback from across the tech industry, government and other stakeholders, my colleagues and I have created landmark legislation that will help mitigate national security risks while making certain innovators are able to continue developing AI to secure a competitive edge over our adversaries in this critical technology area.” “In the ever-evolving global threat landscape, the United States has to stay one step ahead of new technologies to protect both our national security and interests at home and abroad—and that means moving carefully, warily, and thoughtfully into an Artificial Intelligence future,” said Senator King. “This bipartisan Preserving American Dominance in AI Act provides critical guidelines for federal oversight of AI technology so that it cannot be misused by bad actors looking to cause harm. We must ask important questions now to wisely navigate our next steps and decisions. Thanks to my colleagues for working together on a solution that promotes American development while safeguarding the public against biological, chemical, cyber, and nuclear threats.” “As artificial intelligence advances rapidly, we must work on a bipartisan basis to proactively address the potential national security threats posed by this technology,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation establishes safeguards to make sure that the U.S. remains the world leader in responsible AI. We must continue to work to protect against potential risks to public safety, such as the misuse of this technology by terrorists or criminal organizations. By implementing balanced oversight of the most advanced AI models, we can maintain our technological leadership while protecting public safety and our national interests.” Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to dramatically improve and transform our way of life, but also presents a spectrum of risks that could be harmful to the American public, some of which could have catastrophic effects. Extremely powerful frontier AI could be misused by foreign adversaries, terrorists, and less sophisticated bad actors to cause widespread harm and threaten U.S. national security. Experts from across the U.S. government, industry, and academia believe that advanced AI could one day enable or assist in the development of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and cyber weapons. The Preserving American Dominance in Al Act would establish the Artificial Intelligence Safety Review Office, housed within the Department of Commerce. The Office would be responsible for working with frontier Al companies, large datacenters, and infrastructure-as-a-service providers (IaaS) to: (a) prevent exploitation of these industries by adversaries; and (b) ensure pre-deployment evaluations similar to CFIUS for the most advanced frontier Al models that pose chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and cyber risks. Specifically, the bill would: Establish the Artificial Intelligence Safety Review Office, led by a Senate-confirmed Under Secretary of Commerce for Artificial Intelligence Safety. Direct the Office to: Develop a take-home test for frontier Al model developers to evaluate their models for extreme risks prior to deployment; Collaborate with the Al Safety Institute to provide industry with best practices and technical assistance; and Study future Al-related risks and report findings to Congress. Require the most advanced data centers that train the most advanced Al models to report the owner and location of the facility to the Office. Protect industry from foreign adversarial actors by tasking laaS providers to implement know-your-customer standards for transactions with foreign persons. Safeguard frontier Al models from cyber breaches and intellectual property theft by requiring developers to implement cybersecurity standards. Help frontier Al model developers identify red-teaming best practices to test for chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or cyber risks. Provide the Under Secretary a 90-day window to review a frontier Al model's safeguards against chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and cyber risks. Ensure a presumption of approval to prevent unnecessary roadblocks to deployment. Establish penalties for developers that fail to comply with the Act. Full text of the Preserving American Dominance in Al Act can be found here and a one-pager can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-hassan-and-lankford-push-department-of-homeland-security-to-address-potential-gps-outages,Senators Hassan and Lankford Push Department of Homeland Security to Address Potential GPS Outages,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and James Lankford (R-OK) wrote to the Department of Homeland Security calling for information on its efforts to protect critical infrastructure and public safety from GPS disruptions. “GPS technology has become an integral part of our nation’s critical infrastructure,” wrote the Senators. “GPS disruptions could affect the delivery of critical community services provided by multiple government and commercial entities, and could lead to cascading detrimental economic, public safety, and security effects.” “We are concerned that the United States is lagging in its efforts to prepare for a potential GPS outage when compared to the efforts of our adversaries,” continued the Senators. “Reporting from the New York Times indicates that China is investing in land-based alternatives to GPS, including by building hundreds of physical timing stations and laying thousands of miles of fiber-optic cables… We are also concerned by steps that international competitors have taken to challenge U.S. leadership in position, navigation, and timing capabilities.” The Senators are asking the Department of Homeland Security to respond to questions on the Department’s efforts to address GPS vulnerabilities and help enhance the resilience of U.S. critical infrastructure. Click here to see the full letter or see text below: Dear Secretary Mayorkas, We write to express our concerns regarding the preparedness of critical infrastructure for potential outages of the Global Positioning System (GPS). GPS signals are vital to the operation of critical infrastructure – including in the transportation, energy, telecommunications, and emergency services sectors – but are susceptible to disruptions by foreign adversaries and criminal actors. Public reports of GPS disruptions – including from jamming and spoofing – have increased dramatically; for example, the number of commercial flights globally impacted by GPS spoofing increased from a few dozen in February to more than 1,100 in August.[1] Given this emerging threat, we write to request information regarding the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) efforts to protect critical infrastructure and public safety from GPS disruptions. GPS technology has become an integral part of our nation's critical infrastructure. GPS disruptions could affect the delivery of critical community services provided by multiple government and commercial entities, and could lead to cascading detrimental economic, public safety, and security effects. For example, a 2021 report commissioned by the Department of Homeland Security found that foreign adversaries could completely shut down U.S. ports by using a GPS jamming system.[2] One study estimates that a complete GPS outage could cost the U.S. economy $1 billion a day[3]. We are concerned that the United States is lagging in its efforts to prepare for a potential GPS outage when compared to the efforts of our adversaries. Reporting from the New York Times indicates that China is investing in land-based alternatives to GPS, including by building hundreds of physical timing stations and laying thousands of miles of fiber-optic cables.[4] Additionally, both China and Russia have retained and upgraded World War II era technology known called Loran – land-based navigation technology that uses long range radio signals. The United States government, however, appears to have given up efforts to upgrade its own Loran systems. We are also concerned by steps that international competitors have taken to challenge U.S. leadership in position, navigation, and timing capabilities. One example is BeiDou, which is China’s space-based system of satellites that serves a direct competitor and alternative to GPS. China’s BeiDou now has the most satellites of any space-based navigation system, and China has plans to launch even more satellites to support the system by 2035.[5] The National Advisory Board on Space-Based Positioning, Navigation, and Timing – which supports U.S. government work on this matter – has concluded that GPS now significantly lags China’s BeiDou in capabilities. The Board argues that “[BeiDou’s] enhanced resiliency and capability should be considered an element of “soft power and an element of great power competition.”[6] The Board expresses concern that the current capability gap between GPS and other global competitors could seriously threaten U.S. standing as the default provider of Global Navigation Satellite Services. In light of this emerging threat, we write to request information about the Department’s efforts to address GPS vulnerabilities and help enhance the resilience of U.S. critical infrastructure against potential outages and disruptions. Specifically, we request information on the following: 1. Risk Assessments: a. What is the Department's current assessment of the risks posed by GPS disruptions and outages to various sectors of critical infrastructure? b. How often does the Department conduct or update these risk assessments, and what measures are in place to identify emerging threats? c. What steps has the Department taken to collect threat, vulnerability, and consequence data from critical infrastructure sectors to ensure that future risk assessments evaluating GPS disruptions and outages comply with the Department’s risk management guidance? 2. Resources: a. What resources (financial and personnel) are allocated to GPS resilience efforts within the Department’s headquarters staff, within the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and within other Departmental components? 3. Planning and Preparedness Efforts: a. What specific plans and protocols has DHS developed to respond to large-scale GPS disruptions? b. How is the Department working with other federal agencies, state and local governments, and private sector partners to enhance resilience in the event of a GPS disruption or outage? c. How often has the Department participated in meetings of the National Executive Committee for Space-Based Positioning, Navigation and Timing? Please provide information about who has attended these meetings on the Department’s behalf. d. What exercises has the Department conducted, sponsored, or participated in that have studied how critical infrastructure operators should prepare for GPS outages? e. What, if any, lessons learned from these exercises have been incorporated into guidance that the Department provides to federal and private sector partners, and how the Department would address a disruption in the GPS system? f. Is the Department supporting research and development for alternative Position, Navigation, and Timing systems – such as atomic clocks and quantum sensors - and if so, how? g. Does the Department track GPS outage incidents across critical infrastructure sectors? If yes, how many outages occurred in FY23 and FY24? 4. International Considerations: a. Does the Department work with any international partners to address risks with the GPS system or other alternate Position, Navigation, and Timing systems? b. How has the rise of China’s alternative to GPS, known as “BeiDou,” impacted the Department’s work including the Department’s risk assessments of the impact of GPS disruptions to U.S. critical infrastructure? c. How do U.S. preparedness efforts for GPS outages compare to the preparedness efforts of other countries including their investments in alternatives to GPS? As members of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, we look forward to working collaboratively with DHS to ensure that our communities and the critical infrastructure they rely upon are adequately prepared for GPS disruptions. We request that the appropriate DHS officials brief the Subcommittee on these matters no later than 45 days from the date of this letter. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/shaheen-hassan-secure-new-hampshire-priorities-in-bipartisan-water-infrastructure-bill,"Shaheen, Hassan Secure New Hampshire Priorities in Bipartisan Water Infrastructure Bill",2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) issued the following statements after the Senate passed by a vote of 97-1 the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, biennial legislation that authorizes water infrastructure projects across the country. The bill recently passed the House of Representatives and is now headed to the President’s desk. “Protecting and enhancing New Hampshire’s waterways, infrastructure and ecosystems is key to boosting our state’s economy, which is why I’m pleased that this bipartisan legislation has passed the Senate and will soon be signed into law,” said Senator Shaheen. “I was proud to secure inclusion of my bill to reauthorize the Northern Border Regional Commission—an agency that serves as a key economic driver in New Hampshire’s northern rural communities. Also included are provisions to advance much-needed upgrades to Granite State water and wastewater infrastructure, including a feasibility study at the Surry Mountain Dam.” “This bipartisan legislation will support New Hampshire’s economy and environment,” said Senator Hassan. “It is particularly important that through this legislation, we reauthorized the Northern Border Regional Commission, which has provided critical support to local projects that have spurred economic development across the Granite State. In addition, this bill includes key measures to protect and preserve the Granite State’s vital water resources. These measures will strengthen New Hampshire’s communities for years to come.” WRDA contains several New Hampshire priorities that Shaheen and Hassan worked to secure, including: Northern Border Regional Commission Reauthorization Act: WRDA 2024 includes Senator Shaheen’s legislation to reauthorize the Northern Border Regional Commission for another five years. NBRC encourages business retention and expansion, invests in public infrastructure and promotes tourism across northern Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and New York. To address unique challenges facing rural workforces, the legislation also invests in projects that expand rural access to child care, health care and affordable housing needs. The NBRC Reauthorization Act also broadens NBRC’s ability to award grants to projects and activities to address the opioid epidemic and other substance use disorders impacting the region. Establishes an Environmental Infrastructure and Ecosystem Restoration Program for New Hampshire: WRDA 2024 authorizes $25 million for environmental infrastructure in New Hampshire. This program will allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to provide assistance in the form of design and construction assistance for environmental infrastructure, including water and wastewater infrastructure. Directs a Feasibility Study at the Surry Mountain Dam: WRDA 2024 includes language directing USACE to conduct a study on the feasibility of upgrading flood gates and related equipment at Surry Mountain Lake to support stream flow augmentation releases. This capability will allow Surry Mountain Lake to serve an important role in protecting aquatic species in the Ashuelot River during times of severe drought. Shaheen and Hassan have long worked to secure key provisions in the biennial legislation that led to the successful dredging of Portsmouth Harbor and the prioritization of the Piscataqua River Navigation project. Shaheen first secured authorization for the Portsmouth Harbor and Piscataqua River Navigation Improvement Project as part of the 2016 WRDA. Shaheen and Hassan then worked with the rest of the New Hampshire congressional delegation to prioritize the project, specifically including language in the 2018 WRDA urging the Corps to expedite the project. Dredging for this project was completed in April 2022, having received funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that Shaheen and Hassan negotiated. As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen helped procure and Hassan supported $8.7 billion for the Corps to complete necessary infrastructure projects in New Hampshire and across the country in FY 2024 government funding legislation that the President signed into law. This funding legislation included language to help ensure the Corps continues to monitor and address shoaling in small harbors across the country, including Rye Harbor and Hampton Harbor in New Hampshire. The bill text of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024 is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-hassan-secure-new-hampshire-priorities-in-bipartisan-water-infrastructure-bill,"Shaheen, Hassan Secure New Hampshire Priorities in Bipartisan Water Infrastructure Bill",2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) issued the following statements after the Senate passed by a vote of 97-1 the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, biennial legislation that authorizes water infrastructure projects across the country. The bill recently passed the House of Representatives and is now headed to the President’s desk. “Protecting and enhancing New Hampshire’s waterways, infrastructure and ecosystems is key to boosting our state’s economy, which is why I’m pleased that this bipartisan legislation has passed the Senate and will soon be signed into law,” said Senator Shaheen. “I was proud to secure inclusion of my bill to reauthorize the Northern Border Regional Commission—an agency that serves as a key economic driver in New Hampshire’s northern rural communities. Also included are provisions to advance much-needed upgrades to Granite State water and wastewater infrastructure, including a feasibility study at the Surry Mountain Dam.” “This bipartisan legislation will support New Hampshire’s economy and environment,” said Senator Hassan. “It is particularly important that through this legislation, we reauthorized the Northern Border Regional Commission, which has provided critical support to local projects that have spurred economic development across the Granite State. In addition, this bill includes key measures to protect and preserve the Granite State’s vital water resources. These measures will strengthen New Hampshire’s communities for years to come.” WRDA contains several New Hampshire priorities that Shaheen and Hassan worked to secure, including: Northern Border Regional Commission Reauthorization Act: WRDA 2024 includes Senator Shaheen’s legislation to reauthorize the Northern Border Regional Commission for another five years. NBRC encourages business retention and expansion, invests in public infrastructure and promotes tourism across northern Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and New York. To address unique challenges facing rural workforces, the legislation also invests in projects that expand rural access to child care, health care and affordable housing needs. The NBRC Reauthorization Act also broadens NBRC’s ability to award grants to projects and activities to address the opioid epidemic and other substance use disorders impacting the region. Establishes an Environmental Infrastructure and Ecosystem Restoration Program for New Hampshire: WRDA 2024 authorizes $25 million for environmental infrastructure in New Hampshire. This program will allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to provide assistance in the form of design and construction assistance for environmental infrastructure, including water and wastewater infrastructure. Directs a Feasibility Study at the Surry Mountain Dam: WRDA 2024 includes language directing USACE to conduct a study on the feasibility of upgrading flood gates and related equipment at Surry Mountain Lake to support stream flow augmentation releases. This capability will allow Surry Mountain Lake to serve an important role in protecting aquatic species in the Ashuelot River during times of severe drought. Shaheen and Hassan have long worked to secure key provisions in the biennial legislation that led to the successful dredging of Portsmouth Harbor and the prioritization of the Piscataqua River Navigation project. Shaheen first secured authorization for the Portsmouth Harbor and Piscataqua River Navigation Improvement Project as part of the 2016 WRDA. Shaheen and Hassan then worked with the rest of the New Hampshire congressional delegation to prioritize the project, specifically including language in the 2018 WRDA urging the Corps to expedite the project. Dredging for this project was completed in April 2022, having received funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that Shaheen and Hassan negotiated. As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen helped procure and Hassan supported $8.7 billion for the Corps to complete necessary infrastructure projects in New Hampshire and across the country in FY 2024 government funding legislation that the President signed into law. This funding legislation included language to help ensure the Corps continues to monitor and address shoaling in small harbors across the country, including Rye Harbor and Hampton Harbor in New Hampshire. The bill text of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024 is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/passed-the-senate-senators-hassan-and-ernsts-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-criminal-penalties-for-violent-crimes-directed-by-foreign-adversaries,PASSED THE SENATE: Senators Hassan and Ernst’s Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Criminal Penalties for Violent Crimes Directed by Foreign Adversaries,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan bill introduced by U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) to increase criminal penalties for individuals who commit, or attempt to commit, violent crimes in the United States on behalf of foreign adversaries. The DETERRENCE Act would both hold offenders accountable and deter criminals, including criminal organizations, from taking money from foreign adversaries in exchange for committing crimes on American soil. “It is unacceptable that foreign adversaries are working with criminal organizations in the United States to kill people on American soil,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation will strengthen criminal penalties on gangs and criminals who engage in violent behavior on behalf of a foreign government. The Senate has sent a clear message that we will not tolerate this outrageous behavior, and I urge my colleagues in the House to quickly pass it so that it can become law.” “The Senate has taken action to ensure any bad actor thinks twice before working with our adversaries or messing with any of our citizens. The bipartisan DETERRENCE Act will create severe consequences for anyone helping carry out Iran’s malign mission of ‘death to America’ and deter any criminal organization targeting Americans on our own soil. As Tehran ramps up their aggression, including by targeting President Trump, there must be no delay in making this critical legislation law,” said Senator Ernst. Under the DETERRENCE Act, criminals working for foreign adversaries can be sentenced to longer prison sentences. The bill specifically increases criminal penalties for the following federal crimes when the crimes are committed under U.S. jurisdiction on behalf of foreign governments: Engaging in a murder-for-hire scheme Murdering or attempting to murder certain federal officials, including Presidents-elect Murdering or attempting to murder certain former federal officials, or their families, because of their official actions Assaulting certain former federal officials, or their families, because of their official actions Kidnapping or attempted kidnapping Threats of violence using a dangerous weapon against certain current and former federal officials, as well as their families, because of their official actions Stalking This legislation follows reports that foreign adversaries are increasingly turning to criminals to commit violent crimes against their critics, including those who reside in the United States. The Department of Justice (DOJ) recently charged an Iranian asset and two members of his criminal network for their alleged involvement in a plot to murder a U.S. citizen who has spoken out against the Iranian regime. DOJ also detailed how Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) allegedly tasked the same asset with creating a plan to assassinate President-elect Donald Trump. Senators Hassan, Ernst, and a bipartisan group of colleagues previously wrote to DOJ calling for more information – and discussing the need for increased criminal penalties – to address this troubling trend of foreign-directed violence. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-meets-with-secretary-of-veterans-affairs-nominee-doug-collins,Senator Hassan Meets with Secretary of Veterans Affairs Nominee Doug Collins,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Senator Maggie Hassan today met with former Congressman Doug Collins, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). As a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Senator Hassan will participate in a hearing on Rep. Collins’s nomination. “Representative Collins and I had a constructive conversation about the importance of ensuring that veterans in New Hampshire and across the country get the full health care and benefits that they have earned and deserve. In our meeting, I stressed the importance of continuing to forge bipartisan progress to improve the VA and deliver meaningful results for veterans, including by investing in VA infrastructure in New Hampshire and building on progress that we have made through the bipartisan PACT Act and other recent legislation. We also discussed the need for us to continue to strengthen mental health care services for veterans and to make sure that rural veterans have reliable access to quality, prompt care and services,” said Senator Hassan. “My father was a World War II veteran, and he instilled in me the importance of honoring service and sacrifice. I deeply appreciate Representative Collins’s service to our country in uniform, including during his deployment to Iraq. I look forward to hearing more from him during his confirmation hearing, and I will continue to work with members of both parties on additional ways to support and honor the heroes who have helped keep America safe, secure, and free.” As a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Senator Hassan has led bipartisan efforts to support service members, veterans, and their families. Senator Hassan helped develop and pass the bipartisan PACT Act into law to help veterans secure the benefits and care that they have earned. Senator Hassan also helped create and fund the 988 suicide hotline, which has a specified veterans crisis line, as well as helped pass into law bipartisan legislation to strengthen the Solid Start program, which contacts every veteran three times by phone in the first year after they leave active duty service to check in and help connect them to VA programs and benefits. Congress also recently passed the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, bipartisan legislation that Senator Hassan helped introduce which, among other measures, expands home care services for veterans. Senator Hassan has also met with several of President-elect Trump’s other nominees, including Homeland Security Secretary nominee Governor Kristi Noem, Treasury Secretary nominee Scott Bessent, and U.S. Trade Representative nominee Jamieson Greer. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-applauds-senate-passage-of-annual-defense-bill-highlights-key-new-hampshire-and-national-security-wins-she-secured,"Shaheen Applauds Senate Passage of Annual Defense Bill, Highlights Key New Hampshire and National Security Wins She Secured",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"**Senate-passed NDAA includes the largest pay raise for enlisted service members in decades, as well as landmark Shaheen amendments to eliminate contraception co-pays for women in the military, support New Hampshire’s workforce and defense industrial base and reauthorize the Women, Peace and Security Act** (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), released the following statement applauding U.S. Senate passage of the fiscal year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which she helped shape to directly respond to challenges facing America’s national security and military readiness. As the second-ranking Democrat on SASC, Senator Shaheen is instrumental in fighting to include provisions that both accomplish top national security objectives and enhance New Hampshire’s role in support of our national defense. The bill now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. “The annual defense bill is an opportunity to advance our country’s national security goals and address issues facing Granite State families. While I don’t agree with everything in this bipartisan compromise, working across the aisle to bolster our defense, support service members and provide for communities makes our nation stronger and sends an important message to our allies and adversaries,” said Shaheen. “From the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard to our innovative defense manufacturing industry, New Hampshire plays an integral role in boosting our national security. That’s why I was proud to secure provisions to support our state’s contributions while also addressing challenges, like tackling PFAS contamination, ensuring access to benefits for service members and supporting our defense industry and installations.” After passing the U.S. Senate, the bill now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Below is a summary of top New Hampshire and national security priorities secured by Shaheen in the FY 2025 NDAA. Critically, the bill authorizes a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted (E1-E4) and a 4.5% pay raise for all other service members. This is one of the largest pay raises for junior enlisted service members in history. The bill also addresses the service member cost of living allowance and expands access to the basic needs allowance. Summary of Key New Hampshire Priorities Set to Become Law Investing in Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and New England’s Shipbuilding Workforce: Senator Shaheen built on her long legacy of support for New England’s shipbuilding industry and workforce by authorizing funding and workforce development for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The Senate-passed FY 2025 NDAA includes full authorization for the Shipbuilding Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) projects at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, which will expand the Shipyard’s capacity to maintain America’s fast-attack submarine fleet. As a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations and Armed Services Committees, Senator Shaheen helped secure this funding beginning in the FY 2019 funding legislation, which she has continued in ensuing years. Shaheen also secured a five-year exemption to the Integrated Lodging Program for employees of public shipyards. The Senate-passed FY 2025 NDAA extends the initial exemption, which Shaheen led, for five years. The Integrated Lodging Program places significant burdens on shipyards’ ability to recruit and retain employees, and after hearing from Shipyard employees and labor organizations, Shaheen secured the exemption initially in the FY 2020 NDAA and prevented it from expiring this year. Additionally, the Senate-passed bill includes authorization for the procurement of one Virginia-class submarine, which are repaired at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, and $3.7 billion in advanced procurement. Senator Shaheen is a steadfast supporter of the Virginia-class program and is a fierce advocate for shipyard priorities. Shaheen also helped secure $3.3 billion for Columbia-class submarine procurement and $6.2 billion in advanced procurement for the program. Undersea warfare is critical to maintaining deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, and New England’s shipbuilding industrial base contributes directly to this national security priority. Supporting the New Hampshire National Guard: As co-chair of the bipartisan U.S. Senate National Guard Caucus, Senator Shaheen has long advocated on behalf of National Guard members and fought to ensure the New Hampshire National Guard remains fully equipped. The FY 2025 NDAA includes Shaheen’s request to increase Active Guard and Reserve (AGR) end strength for the Air National Guard. Notably, the Senate-passed bill also includes an amendment authored by Shaheen to require the National Guard Bureau to report to Congress on the operational impacts of its announcement to level manpower across states, including in New Hampshire. In May, the National Guard Bureau heeded Shaheen’s calls and granted New Hampshire an exemption to the re-leveling for one year. This new provision would require the Guard Bureau to report to Congress before implementation. In addition, Shaheen secured $2.7 billion for the procurement of 15 KC-46A Pegasus refueling tankers, which are flown at Pease Air National Guard Base in New Hampshire. Earlier this year, Shaheen traveled to the Indo-Pacific region, where she highlighted the acquisition of the KC-46 refueling tanker by Japan’s Self-Defense Forces. Expanding Shaheen’s Historic PFAS Health Impact Study and Confronting Full Scope of Challenges Posed by Forever Chemicals: Senator Shaheen reauthorized $5 million to expand the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) PFAS health impact study that she established five years ago. It also authorizes $40 million in increased funding for PFAS cleanup efforts within the different military services and codifies existing Department of Defense (DoD) policy compelling the military services to act to address any release or threatened release of PFAS. Finally, the legislation includes a provision from Shaheen that requires DoD to procure cleaning products without harmful PFAS chemicals. Senator Shaheen leads efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to PFAS contamination, and because of her efforts, Pease Air National Guard Base is serving as a model site for the nationwide study. These provisions build on a decade of Shaheen’s historic work to hold the Department of Defense responsible for remediation of PFAS contamination at military bases and ensure transparency for affected communities. The FY 2024 NDAA included requirements for the Department of Defense to share how they intend to restore PFAS testing data with state regulators and impacted communities, like at Pease. It also included a provision requiring the Department to submit a separate budget justification to Congress to ensure investments in PFAS testing and remediation are used efficiently and effectively, as well as directing recurring reports on the Defense Department’s PFAS-related activities to increase oversight. Shaheen’s amendment to the FY 2023 NDAA prohibited the Department of Defense from purchasing PFAS-laden firefighting turnout gear after October 1, 2026. This followed Shaheen led efforts to expand blood testing and treatment for firefighters exposed to PFAS and a similar amendment she secured to ban the use of PFAS-laden firefighting foam in the FY 2020 NDAA. Previously, as a lead negotiator of water provisions in the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Shaheen secured record-level funding to upgrade drinking water and wastewater infrastructure and address PFAS contamination. Protecting Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) Programs in New Hampshire: The bill includes Senator Shaheen’s bipartisan legislation with Senator Capito (R-WV), the Preserving JROTC Programs Act. This would reduce the statutory enrollment requirement for Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) programs from 100 to 50 students to prevent programs from shuttering. In New Hampshire, there are five Air Force JROTC programs. Two of them are currently on probation and another two are at risk of being put on probation due to current enrollment requirements. Nationally, there are more than 270 Air Force JROTC programs that do not meet the enrollment requirement. Supporting New Hampshire’s Defense Industry: Senator Shaheen successfully included language encouraging the Army to prioritize U.S.-based manufacturers for critical components of its Night Vision Device-Next devices, a binocular night vision goggle system that helps our warfighters remain the best fighting force in the world. Shaheen’s provision will promote continued investment in New Hampshire’s night vision manufacturing industrial base and ensure our soldiers have the technology they need to maintain a decisive advantage on the battlefield. Shaheen also worked to include additional funding for the procurement of 42 F-35A Joint Strike Fighters, as well as 13 F-35C Carrier Variant and 13 F-35B Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing Joint Strike Fighters. Shaheen is a steadfast supporter of the F-35 program, which enhances U.S. national security while also investing in New Hampshire’s economy and role in supporting our national defense. New Hampshire has 58 first-tier suppliers for the program. Shaheen also helped secure additional funding to procure 24 F-15EX fighter aircraft. Summary of National Priorities Set to Become Law Protecting Access to Contraception: In the FY 2025 Senate-passed NDAA, Shaheen secured an historic amendment to require that all women who receive health care through the military have access to FDA-approved contraception without insurance co-pays. This brings TRICARE in line with civilian health plans, eliminating an undue financial burden for women and dependents in the military. The Shaheen amendment also requires the Department of Defense to develop a comprehensive family planning education program for service members to ensure families can make informed decisions about their future. Further, the Shaheen amendment guarantees that survivors of sexual assault in the military have access to emergency contraception. After overcoming more than a decade of obstruction on this amendment, the Shaheen provision was adopted on a bipartisan vote and will go into effect immediately. Shaheen also helped secure an amendment to improve contraception counseling services for service members, including by mandating contraceptive counseling information in periodic health assessments and providing information on contraception in pre-deployment service forms. Shaheen built on her work from the FY 2016 and FY 2017 NDAAs, both of which were signed into law and required the Department of Defense to develop a comprehensive policy to ensure access to contraceptive counseling for service members and required the Department to conduct a survey on active-duty service women’s experiences with family planning services and counseling. Extending the Authorization of the Shaheen-Led Women, Peace and Security Law: Shaheen helped to successfully extend the implementation of her landmark Women, Peace, and Security Act, bipartisan legislation she authored that was signed into law in 2017. Senator Shaheen’s provision in the FY 2025 Senate-passed NDAA ensures the Department of Defense can continue its security cooperation with foreign partners, giving America a strategic advantage over adversaries who devalue women’s participation in conflict resolution and political-military affairs. The provision also authorizes the continued implementation of the Women, Peace and Security agenda within the Department of Defense, which requires women’s participation and gender analysis to be incorporated into security cooperation programs carried out by the Department. Addressing Service Members and Military Families’ Mental Health and Quality of Life: The bill includes language from Senator Shaheen’s bipartisan legislation with Senator Fischer (R-NE), the MOMS who Serve Act, to create a perinatal mental health prevention program for service women. The NDAA also reauthorizes legislation led by Shaheen, the Portable Certification of Spouses (PCS) Act, to ensure that military spouses can transfer their professional licenses from state-to-state. Finally, the bill authorizes over $176 million for the design and construction of new child care centers and fully funds child care fee assistance programs for military families. Addressing Global Security Challenges: The bill includes Senator Shaheen’s standalone legislation with Senator Cornyn (R-TX), the Aiding the Enemy Act, which amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to include providing military education, military training or tactical advice to the enemy as prohibited acts under the UCMJ. Shaheen also successfully included an extension of the Counter-ISIS Train and Equip funds to be used to assist the Syrian Democratic Forces in containing the ISIS detainee population in Syria in the FY 2025 NDAA. This builds on Shaheen’s work from the FY 2024 NDAA which was signed into law last year and included a Shaheen provision to designate a senior coordinator at the State Department to lead U.S. government efforts to address the humanitarian and security crises at ISIS detainee and displaced persons camps in northeastern Syria. The provision also directed the Administration to develop an interagency strategy to address the threats posed by the camps, with the goal of ultimately repatriating all inhabitants and closing the camps. In addition, Shaheen supported the authorization of $15.6 billion to the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, which enhances U.S. force posture and readiness in the Indo-Pacific region. The NDAA also establishes the Taiwan Security Initiative, which will help to strengthen collective deterrence in the Indo-Pacific. The bill includes language based on Senator Shaheen’s provision requiring the Secretary of Defense to review security cooperation activities with Georgia in light of the passage of its Russian-aligned foreign agents law. Supporting America’s Small Businesses: As Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Senator Shaheen worked to include several provisions to support small businesses that will: Allow Military Research Institutions like the U.S. Naval Academy to clearly participate in the DoD’s Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program. Direct DoD to allocate initial funds to the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and STTR programs based on the prior two years’ funding, providing more consistent funding for small businesses working on innovative solutions for national security. Codify the Small Business Administration (SBA’s) Boots to Business program, which offers entrepreneurial training programs to service members, military spouses, veterans and National Guard and Reserve members. Require that contract opportunities for small businesses use plain language in notices. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-to-become-ranking-member-of-us-senate-foreign-relations-committee-in-119th-congress,Shaheen To Become Ranking Member of U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee in 119th Congress,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) today announced she will be Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee in the 119th Congress: “I am honored by and appreciative of the opportunity to serve as Ranking Member on the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee in the upcoming 119th Congress. America’s global leadership is at a critical juncture as we look at the challenges before us, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East. Uplifting the importance of diplomacy in our foreign policy is key to maintaining America’s role as a force of democracy, strength and stability,” said Shaheen. Shaheen continued, “The committee has important work to do to stand up to America’s adversaries, counter disinformation and address emerging technology. I look forward to working closely with Chairman Jim Risch and members of the Committee to tackle the most serious and important challenges facing our nation and the world and to ensure America can lead from a position of strength.” Senator Shaheen has served on the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee since arriving in the Senate in 2009. As Governor of New Hampshire, she led the state’s first overseas trade mission, seeing firsthand the importance of our globally connected world and the benefits it brings back home. She also serves on the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committees, as well as the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs and Defense. Senator Shaheen re-established the bipartisan U.S. Senate NATO Observer Group in 2018 with U.S. Senator Tillis (R-NC). Senator Shaheen believes that a strong and active United States is fundamental to securing our national interests at home and abroad. She also believes that U.S. global leadership is directly tied to the strength of our ideals, our alliances and our diplomacy, and she is constantly working to ensure our national security policies reflect our broader democratic values. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cornyn-hassan-bill-to-improve-contractor-services-along-southern-border-heads-to-presidents-desk,TO THE PRESIDENT’S DESK: Senators Hassan and Cornyn’s Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Border Security,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statements after their DHS Border Services Contracts Review Act, which would require the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Under Secretary for Management to deliver a report assessing contracts for services performed along the U.S.-Mexico border and implement a plan to improve procurement and delivery of those services, passed the Senate and now heads to the President’s desk: “As a founding member of the Senate DOGE Caucus, I’m looking for any and every opportunity to streamline government processes, including at our southern border,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would identify new ways to better protect taxpayer dollars and support our Border Patrol agents, CBP officers, and other personnel who work tirelessly to safeguard Texans.” “We need to continue working across the aisle to strengthen border security,” said Sen. Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation is one additional way to better achieve that mission. It will help ensure that the Department of Homeland Security and its contractors are operating as effectively as possible at the border.” U.S. Representatives Josh Brecheen (OK-02) and Mark Green (TN-07) led companion legislation in the House. Background: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General has previously reported instances when U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) failed to timely contract for adequate facilities to detain illegal migrants and provide medical services. This legislation would mitigate instances similar to those by requiring the DHS Under Secretary for Management to assess contracts valued at a minimum of $50 million for services performed by contractor personnel along the southern border. DHS would also be required to develop a strategy and implementation plan to improve procurement and delivery of services. As part of the analysis, DHS is required to consider the impact of contracts on the ability of Border Patrol agents to carry out their primary mission responsibilities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-participates-in-bipartisan-delegation-to-commemorate-the-80th-anniversary-of-the-battle-of-the-bulge,Senator Hassan Participates in Bipartisan Delegation to Commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) recently joined a bipartisan Senate Delegation to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge. Senator Hassan’s father, Robert Wood, served in the Battle of the Bulge in the 385th Regiment, 76th Infantry Division. Photos and video from the delegation visit can be found here. “It was an honor to be able to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, where Americans soldiers fought through harrowing conditions to help save the world from Hitler’s tyranny,” Senator Hassan said. “My father served in the battle, and the war showed him why tyrants like Hitler cannot be appeased – and that freedom is always worth fighting for. As America continues to face threats around the world, including from Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and terrorism supported by Iran, it remains as essential as ever that we learn from the heroes of the Battle of the Bulge, follow their example of courage, and stand strong against tyranny and terror in defense of our freedoms.” The Senate Delegation was led by Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) and also included Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY). During the trip, Senator Hassan and the bipartisan Senate Delegation attended the Battle of the Bulge Memorial Commemoration in Bastogne, Belgium. They later visited the Luxembourg American Cemetery to pay their respects to American service members and lay a wreath to honor those who fell in the battle. The delegation also participated in a number of meetings focused on national security, international partnerships, and the importance of continued support for Ukraine in the face of Putin’s unjustified and ongoing invasion. The Battle of the Bulge, which began on December 16, 1944, marked the Germans’ last major offensive campaign during World War II. The battle was the costliest fought by American soldiers in World War II, with American losses totaling more than 89,000, including 19,000 dead. Faced with freezing temperatures, low supplies, and a determined enemy, the American soldiers managed to hold the line against Hitler’s onslaught, helping pave the way to winning the war and saving the world from Hitler. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/to-the-presidents-desk-hassan-cornyn-colleagues-bill-to-help-prevent-child-abuse,"TO THE PRESIDENT'S DESK: Hassan, Cornyn, Colleagues’ Bill to Help Prevent Child Abuse",2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) released the following statements after their Jenna Quinn Law, which would allow current grant funds to be used to train and educate students, teachers, caregivers, and other adults who work with children in a professional or volunteer capacity on how to prevent, recognize, and report child sexual abuse, passed the House and now heads to the President’s desk. The bill is named for Jenna Quinn, a Texan and child abuse survivor, and is modeled after successful reforms passed by the Texas Legislature in 2009. “Congress must ensure every state has robust resources to train those who work with children on how to identify and prevent the vicious cycle of child sexual abuse,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation, inspired by Texan Jenna Quinn, would give students, teachers, and caregivers more tools to protect vulnerable children nationwide, and I urge the President to sign it without delay.” “Members of both parties are united in our mission to find additional ways to keep children safe from sexual abuse,” said Sen. Hassan. “Our bipartisan legislation will help ensure that parents, teachers, and other community members receive evidence-based training to help protect children from sexual abuse, and I look forward to the President signing this commonsense bill into law.” “Every child deserves protection from abuse. Ensuring all adults, teachers, and caregivers are equipped with the knowledge to identify, prevent, and report child sexual abuse is a necessary and life-saving mechanism,” said Sen. Luján. “Jenna’s Law is implemented across several states – including New Mexico – and should be federally recognized. I’m proud to see this bipartisan legislation passed the House and Senate, bringing us one step closer to providing funding to train and educate students, teachers, and parents on best practices to prevent and report abuse.” The Jenna Quinn Law passed the Senate on February 9th, 2024. Sen. Mike Braun (R-IN) also cosponsored this legislation, and Representatives Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Michael McCaul (TX-10), and Susan Wild (PA-07) led it in the House. Background: Jenna Quinn has been an outspoken advocate for survivors of child sexual abuse and was the driving force behind what is now known as Jenna’s Law in Texas. Unanimously passed by the Texas Legislature, Jenna’s Law was the first child sexual abuse prevention law in the U.S. that mandates K-12 trainings for students and school staff and was amended in 2017 to include sex trafficking prevention education in schools. More than half of all states have adopted a form of Jenna’s Law. After Jenna’s Law passed in Texas in 2009, a study found educators reported child sexual abuse at a rate almost four times greater after training than during their pre-training career. The Jenna Quinn Law would: Authorize federal grants to eligible entities for increasing evidence-based or informed training on sexual abuse prevention education and reporting to teachers and school employees, students, caregivers, and other adults who work with children; And ensure these grant recipients coordinate with local educational agencies to train students, professionals, and volunteers who work with students on sexual abuse prevention, recognition, and reporting. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-statement-following-meeting-with-us-ambassador-to-the-united-nations-nominee-congresswoman-stefanik,Shaheen Statement Following Meeting with U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nominee Congresswoman Stefanik,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today issued the following statement after meeting with U.S. Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21), President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to serve as the next U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (UN). A photo from the meeting can be found here. “In our meeting today, Congresswoman Stefanik and I spoke about the importance of bringing allies and like-minded countries together through the United Nations to address global crises and achieve outcomes that are beneficial to America’s national security. I expressed my deeply held belief that, when the U.S. has a meaningful seat at the table, we can accomplish shared priorities like promoting democratic values, countering Russia and China’s malign influence and combatting anti-Semitism. I look forward to discussing these topics further in the Congresswoman’s confirmation hearing.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-pushes-for-porch-pirates-crackdown-during-peak-gift-giving-season,Pappas Pushes for ‘Porch Pirates’ Crackdown During Peak Gift-Giving Season,2024-12-16,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"As Granite Staters eagerly await the delivery of gifts for friends and loved ones at the peak of holiday shopping season, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) is pushing Congress to pass the Porch Pirates Act of 2024 which would increase penalties for package theft and safeguard millions of dollars that New Hampshire residents lose each year to so-called “porch pirates.” Porch pirates stole 115 million packages in 2023, costing Americans an estimated $9 billion. A report last year by Forbes Homes ranked New Hampshire as the top state for packages being stolen from personal property - like a porch or driveway. Pappas supports the Porch Pirates Act of 2024, which would put in place the same penalties for the theft of packages from private carriers like FedEx and UPS that apply to the theft of United States Postal Service mail. “As we enter the height of the holiday gift-giving season and Granite Staters are receiving deliveries for gifts for their friends and loved ones, package theft remains a significant concern,” said Congressman Pappas, a member of the House Small Business Committee. “Last year, 115 million packages were stolen, costing families and businesses billions of dollars. To combat the rise in porch piracy, this bipartisan legislation will put in place the same federal penalties, whether a package was delivered by a private carrier or the U.S. Postal Service, and allow us to deter theft and help hold those responsible accountable. I urge Congress to take up and pass this common-sense legislation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/young-colleagues-reintroduce-bill-to-provide-tsa-precheck-to-disabled-veterans,"Hassan, Young, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Provide TSA PreCheck to Disabled Veterans",2024-12-16,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to provide veterans with service-connected disabilities with expedited screening under the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) PreCheck program. TSA PreCheck is already offered to active duty, reserves, and National Guard service members at no cost. The Veterans Expedited TSA Screening (VETS) Safe Travel Act will expand this program to include veterans who are amputees, paralyzed, or blind. Passing through airport security with prosthetics, wheelchairs, or other mobility aids presents a challenge to these individuals when traveling. “Airports can be a dreaded experience for veterans with service-connected disabilities because of the invasive screenings they may endure at security checkpoints. Our bill will bring dignified travel to thousands of wounded warriors by ensuring PreCheck benefits are easily available to them,” said Senator Young. “Millions of Veterans have sacrificed a great deal in service to our nation and returned home with service-connected disabilities—for those of us who rely on prosthetics and wheelchairs for mobility, air travel and passing through airport security can be a challenge,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud to join Senator Young in re-introducing this bipartisan legislation to make TSA PreCheck available at no cost to these Veterans and make flying and passing through airports easier and less intrusive.” ""Our wounded veterans deserve a TSA security process that respects their sacrifices and minimizes unnecessary stress at checkpoints. Offering free PreCheck to wounded veterans is a small but meaningful way to honor their service and make their travel experiences easier,"" said Senator Marshall. “For veterans who have already overcome extraordinary challenges in service to our country, navigating airport security should not be another hurdle,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation recognizes the unique challenges that many disabled veterans face and helps to better ensure that their travel experience reflects the dignity of their service.” Under the VETS Safe Travel Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs would be required to certify that a veteran is eligible. TSA would then process the veteran’s application, granting access to TSA PreCheck at no cost provided they successfully pass the background check and interview process. Additionally, TSA advises that these veterans use TSA PreCheck in conjunction with calling the TSA Cares hotline 72-hours prior to departure to ensure expedited screening. The legislation is supported by the Wounded Warrior Project, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Honor Flight Network, Disabled American Veterans, the American Legion, Blinded Veterans Association, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Full text of the legislation can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-s-bipartisan-legislation-to-combat-fentanyl-crisis-crack-down-on-drug-trafficking-included-in-defense-authorization-bill,"Pappas’s Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Fentanyl Crisis, Crack Down on Drug Trafficking Included in Defense Authorization Bill",2024-12-13,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The bipartisan Destruction Initiative for Stored Precursors Overseas and Safe Enforcement (DISPOSE) Act, championed by Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), was included in the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2025 that the House passed this week. This bipartisan legislation would create fentanyl and precursor chemical destruction facilities in three critical drug trafficking choke points: Mexico, Colombia, and Peru. Fentanyl and other synthetic drugs have taken the lives of tens of thousands of Americans. This legislation deals with the problem by developing a strategy to locate, identify, and safely destroy fentanyl precursor chemicals before they reach the United States. “Strengthening our collaboration with partners in Latin America on drug interdiction efforts will help stop fentanyl and other deadly substances from flowing into our communities,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “The DISPOSE Act will establish centers in Mexico, Colombia, and Peru that identify and destroy fentanyl and precursor drugs, stopping these drugs before they reach American soil. I’ll continue to support efforts that hold drug traffickers accountable, keep our communities safe, and save lives.” Background: The DISPOSE Act establishes the Precursor Chemical Destruction Initiative to fight drug trafficking with our partners in the Western Hemisphere. Working directly with partner countries, the Initiative will: Increase rates of seizure and destruction of listed chemicals in beneficiary countries; Alleviate the backlog of seized chemicals and dispose them in an environmentally safe and effective manner; Ensure that the seized chemicals are not reintroduced into the illicit drug production network within beneficiary countries; Free up storage space for future chemical seizures within beneficiary countries; and Reduce the chemicals’ negative environmental impact.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-hassan-murkowski-duckworth-and-collins-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-ensure-no-cost-contraception-coverage-for-all-women,"Senators Hassan, Murkowski, Duckworth, and Collins Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Ensure No-Cost Contraception Coverage for All Women",2024-12-13,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Susan Collins (R-ME) introduced a bipartisan bill to help ensure full access to no-cost contraception coverage for all women. Currently, private insurance and Medicaid must cover all types of contraception, such as oral contraception and IUD insertion, at no cost to the patient. The Closing the Contraception Coverage Gap Act seeks to close any remaining gaps in order to ensure that all women can get the best form of contraception for them without a copay. The bipartisan bill would require Medicare to also cover contraception at no cost to the patient, closing a known gap in contraception coverage for young and middle-aged women who experience long-term disabilities. One million women aged 20 - 49 receive health coverage from Medicare, which they most often are eligible for because of a long-term disability. The bill would additionally require the Government Accountability Office to analyze if there are any other contraception coverage gaps so that they can be closed as well. “Every woman should be able to get the health care that’s right for her, and this bipartisan bill will help ensure that all women can access no-cost contraception under all insurance plans,” said Senator Hassan. “This bill will close a gap that has stopped many women from getting coverage for contraception and help ensure that there are no other gaps in coverage.” “I am co-leading this legislation because women should not face further barriers to access contraception,” Senator Murkowski said. “This legislation would secure access to, and coverage for, contraception for the roughly 1 million women of reproductive age with long-term disabilities covered by Medicare, ensuring parity with coverage offered by Medicaid and private insurance.” “There’s no reason that women with disabilities should have a harder time accessing birth control than anyone else,” said Senator Duckworth. “By requiring Medicare to cover birth control without any cost to patients, our bipartisan bill would make sure all beneficiaries have equal access to birth control. It’s long overdue.” “Unlike Medicaid and private insurance, which generally cover most FDA-approved contraceptive methods and services without cost to patients, Medicare coverage leaves thousands of women without the same access to reproductive health care,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan bill would require Medicare to cover contraception methods and services at no cost to patients, removing a significant barrier to health care for women who qualify for Medicare because of a long-term disability.” This bill has been endorsed by leading reproductive and disability rights groups, including the American Association of People with Disabilities. “Though the disability community is often left out of discussions about sex education, safer sex, and reproductive rights, many disabled people have active sex lives and are capable of getting pregnant. In addition, many people take contraceptives for reasons other than preventing pregnancy or managing their reproductive health. AAPD strongly supports bodily autonomy and access to reproductive choice, including multiple contraceptive options, for all disabled people, and recognizes bodily autonomy as a core value of the disability rights movement. All people with disabilities deserve access to numerous options for contraception so that they may elect the option that works best for their lives, their bodies, and their wallets,” said Maria Town, President and CEO of the American Association of People with Disabilities. “Disabled people on Medicare should not face financial penalties for exercising this choice – the provision that requires the Affordable Care Act to cover contraceptives for free exists for good reason and should be extended to the many disabled people who receive healthcare coverage through Medicare. The Closing the Contraception Coverage Gap Act would address this important issue, and AAPD is proud to support this important bill. We are grateful for the leadership of Senators Hassan, Collins, Duckworth, and Murkowski in sponsoring this bill.” This legislation has also been endorsed by Upstream, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, National Women’s Law Center, National Partnership for Women & Families, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs, Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network, New Disabled South, National Council of Jewish Women, and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The full text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-collins-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-improve-medicare-beneficiaries-access-to-diabetes-treatments-and-education,"Shaheen, Collins Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Medicare Beneficiaries’ Access to Diabetes Treatments and Education",2024-12-13,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) are introducing new, bipartisan legislation, the Diabetes Interventions Addressing Barriers to Enrollment, Technology and Education Services (DIABETES) Act, to improve access to diabetes treatments and respond to the ongoing need for diabetes technology education among Medicare beneficiaries. “Far too often, Medicare beneficiaries have to jump through hoops to access life-saving diabetes care or are forced to change treatments simply because of outdated coverage requirements,” said Senator Shaheen. “This bill would improve access to supportive services, eliminate disruptions in coverage and remove significant obstacles so that those on Medicare can continue with the treatment regimens that work best for them.” “Delays or disruptions to coverage of diabetes technologies can significantly diminish patient health, particularly for those enrolling in Medicare,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan legislation would streamline coverage for insulin pumps and expand education and training for patients and providers, improving care for individuals managing diabetes.” The bill has been endorsed by the Diabetes Technology Access Coalition and the American Diabetes Association. “For too long, Americans with diabetes have been frustrated in trying to access diabetes care that works for them. For the thirty two percent of Medicare beneficiaries who have diabetes, they need access the care that works for them, ranging from pharmaceutical and technological interventions to behavioral interventions, like diabetes self-management training. This is essential since individuals experience their diabetes uniquely. This bill would dramatically improve access to diabetes care for our seniors, and DTAC applauds Senators Shaheen and Collins for their leadership and commitment to ensuring that all individuals have access to a comprehensive and flexible set of diabetes treatment options,” said Tim Trysla, Executive Director of the Diabetes Technology Access Coalition. A copy of the bill text can be found here. As co-chairs of the U.S. Senate Diabetes Caucus, Shaheen and Collins have led action in the U.S. Senate to advance priorities that will lower the costs of insulin, invest in treatment and prioritize diabetes research. Shaheen and Collins recently delivered remarks on the U.S. Senate floor to recognize American Diabetes Month and to push for the passage of their bipartisan Improving Needed Safeguards for Users of Lifesaving Insulin Now (INSULIN) Act, which would comprehensively address the skyrocketing costs of insulin, removing barriers to care and making it more accessible for millions more Americans. Last summer, Shaheen and Collins introduced the Special Diabetes Program Reauthorization Act of 2023, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and strengthen vital type 1 diabetes research. In March, Senators Collins and Shaheen secured a short-term reauthorization of the Special Diabetes Program (SDP) through the end of 2024. Earlier this month, the senators led a bipartisan letter to Senate leadership emphasizing the importance of the Special Diabetes Program (SDP) that was signed by a total of 55 Senators. The Senators also announced the bicameral, bipartisan Strengthening Collective Resources for Encouraging Education Needed (SCREEN) for Type 1 Diabetes Act, to improve early detection and screening for type 1 diabetes. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-discusses-legislative-wins-and-priorities-for-new-hampshire-during-new-england-councils-capitol-hill-report,Shaheen Discusses Legislative Wins and Priorities for New Hampshire During New England Council’s Capitol Hill Report,2024-12-13,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Manchester, NH) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen spoke at an event hosted by the New England Council to discuss her legislative wins for New Hampshire and previewed ongoing priorities, including lowering health care costs, addressing New Hampshire’s affordable housing crisis and strengthening U.S. national security. The fireside chat was moderated by James T. Brett, President of the New England Council, which is the nation’s oldest regional business organization, comprised of businesses and organizations across the six New England states. Later, Shaheen stopped by the WZID studio to join the 26th annual WZID Christmas Is For Kids Radiothon. You can find photos from both events here and watch the discussion in full here. “We have our work cut for us between now and the end of this session, but I’m working to push through legislation that will make a real difference to folks in New Hampshire. That includes supplemental disaster aid funding for FEMA and an extension of Affordable Care Act premium tax credits that make health care affordable for millions of Americans,” said Senator Shaheen. “I was glad to join the New England Council today to discuss these efforts and ways to continue supporting our region’s economy and businesses through my work in Washington.” Later, Shaheen stopped by the WZID studio to join the 26th WZID Christmas Is For Kids Radiothon, which is the final year of this annual event. “I’ve been honored to join this event a number of times over the years, and I’ve seen how much hard work goes into making it a success,” said Senator Shaheen. “The work that Waypoint does to support vulnerable Granite Starters when they need it the most, not just during the holiday season but year-round, is so important because it gives people a lifeline and a chance to get back on their feet.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-s-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-security-coordination-at-northern-border-included-in-defense-authorization-bill,Pappas’s Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Security Coordination at Northern Border Included in Defense Authorization Bill,2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas’s (NH-01) Securing Our Northern Border Act was included in the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2025 that the House passed yesterday. This bipartisan legislation would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish the Northern Border Mission Center to strengthen implementation and coordination of the Northern Border Strategy, which includes training, information sharing, intelligence, and engagement with federal, state, Tribal, local, and international government partners. In the Swanton Sector, which includes New Hampshire’s northern border, Border Patrol agents arrested almost 7,000 migrants trying to cross the border illegally between October 2023 and September 2024, more than the previous 12 Fiscal Years combined. “Strengthening operations at our northern border is critical to drug interdiction efforts and keeping our communities safe,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “This center will provide a central hub for implementing the Northern Border Strategy, including enforcing our immigration laws and stemming drug trafficking, and bolstering coordination efforts between U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel, local law enforcement, and other partners. I’m pleased that important legislation to do this was included in the annual national defense bill. I will continue to support investments in border security, law enforcement, and anti-smuggling technology.” The Securing Our Northern Border Act would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish the Northern Border Mission Center, to be collocated with an existing U.S. Border Patrol sector headquarters, an Air and Marine Operations Branch, and a U.S. Coast Guard air station. The Center would support implementation of the Northern Border Security Strategy, help to track Northern Border security metrics, serve as a training location for DHS personnel and as a testing grounds for new border security technologies. The legislation also requires Air and Marine Operations to maintain quick reaction capabilities at the Center to support the border security mission along the Northern Border, including against the rising threat of illegal cross-border drone activity. Background: Pappas has been an ardent supporter of bipartisan efforts to address America’s northern and southern border and has called on House Republican leadership to stop blocking the consideration of legislation to restore order and fix the U.S.’s immigration system that has been broken for decades. Pappas is a cosponsor of the Dignity Act, which is comprehensive, bipartisan legislation to address security and infrastructure challenges at the border, hire additional border patrol personnel, establish new pathways for asylum seekers, and create a path to citizenship. In September, Pappas introduced the bipartisan Improving Coordination for the Northern Border Act, which would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish the Northern Border Coordination Center to strengthen implementation and coordination of the Northern Border Strategy. In March, Pappas helped launch a new border security task force to focus on the need for comprehensive, bipartisan solutions to address the border and fix the broken immigration system. Later that month, Pappas helped to pass the fiscal year 2024 government funding package, which included a $3.2 billion increase in funding for Customs and Border Patrol (CPB), providing for a record 22,000 agents, including 150 counter-fentanyl officers, and needed investments in fentanyl detection equipment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/bipartisan-senate-delegation-to-represent-the-us-senate-at-80th-anniversary-of-the-battle-of-the-bulge-in-bastogne-and-luxembourg,Bipartisan Senate Delegation to Represent the U.S. Senate at 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge in Bastogne & Luxembourg,2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) released the following joint statement announcing that they will represent the U.S. Senate at the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge in Bastogne and Luxembourg: “Eighty years ago under the harsh conditions of winter, American troops held the line and fought back against Nazi Germany in the costliest American battle of World War II – the Battle of the Bulge. We are honored to represent the United States Senate at the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge alongside WWII veterans and world leaders. Over the next few days, we look forward to recognizing the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who answered the call to serve and to pay our respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.” The Senate delegation will attend ceremonies at the Battle of the Bulge Monument in Bastogne, Belgium, on Friday, December 13, and at the Luxembourg American Cemetery on Saturday, December 14. The ceremonies are hosted by the American Battle Monuments Commission. More information regarding the official events can be found here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cornyn-colleagues-bill-to-increase-transparency-of-federal-grant-application-process-signed-into-law,"SIGNED INTO LAW: Hassan, Cornyn, Colleagues’ Bill to Increase Transparency of Federal Grant Application Process",2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), John Thune (R-SD), Gary Peters (D-MI), John Kennedy (R-LA), and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) released the following statements after their Grant Transparency Act, which would require government agencies to provide competitive grant applicants with more information about their selection criteria and evaluation process, was signed into law: “Grant applicants often don’t have enough information to know why they are not awarded a competitive grant despite meeting the criteria,” said Sen. Cornyn. “The Grant Transparency Act will require government agencies to shine a light on how they decide between applicants behind closed doors, and I’m glad to see it become law.” “Federal grant funding provides essential support to small towns and organizations, but the current process can often leave applicants in the dark about how their applications will be evaluated,” said Sen. Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation will help grant applicants understand exactly how they can successfully compete for federal funding that can make a real difference in their local communities.” “State and local leaders work hard to develop a strong application process for federal funding,” said Sen. Thune. “This legislation will require agencies to increase transparency of the grant application process, which will help ensure that funding is truly based on merit, not political favoritism.” “Grant dollars can be a game changer for communities, but too often applicants lack the information needed to effectively compete for these important federal investments,” said Sen. Peters. “This law will help applicants across Michigan and the country better understand how their projects will be evaluated, making sure every community has a fair shot at accessing these resources.” “Louisianians deserve to know how the government chooses competitive grant recipients,” said Sen. Kennedy. “I’m glad to see the Grant Transparency Act become law so our people have more information about how their organizations can access this crucial funding.” “Communities throughout Georgia rely on federal grants to better the lives of their community members. But too often, the lack of transparency and clarity from federal agencies makes the barrier to entry for these grants almost unfeasible for the communities that need them most,” said Sen. Warnock. “Because of our bipartisan efforts, legislation to more easily connect our local communities with federal resources has now become law.” Background: The Grant Transparency Act will require the Notice of Funding Opportunities (NOFO) for competitive grants to include: A description of any rating system, evaluation, and selection criteria the agency uses to assess applications for the competitive grant; A statement of whether the agency uses a weighted scoring method and a description of any weighted scoring method the agency uses for the competitive grant, including the amount by which the agency weights each criterion; And any other qualitative or quantitative merit-based approach the agency uses to evaluate an application for a competitive grant. Senator Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) is also a cosponsor of the legislation. U.S. Representatives Russell Fry (SC-07) and Jasmine Crockett (TX-30) led companion legislation in the House. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/grassley-hassan-seek-to-shine-light-on-opioid-makers-financial-conflicts-of-interest,"Grassley, Hassan Seek to Shine Light on Opioid Makers’ Financial Conflicts of Interest",2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, and Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) today introduced bipartisan legislation to make public pharmaceutical and device manufacturers’ financial relationships with tax-exempt patient advocacy groups. The Open Payments Expansion Act builds on Grassley’s 2020 investigative report, which found opioid and medical device manufacturers paid $65 million to tax-exempt entities that drove up sales and downplayed risks of addiction. “Patient advocacy is a noble cause, but pharmaceutical donors can manipulate well-intentioned organizations into Trojan horses for bad policy and dishonest marketing. By requiring opioid manufacturers to disclose their payments to nonprofit organizations, our legislation provides much-needed accountability and transparency,” said Grassley. “One of the many ways that Big Pharma fueled the opioid crisis was through secretly funneling money to nonprofit advocacy groups – and then those groups at times promoted the use of opioids, despite the increasingly clear risks of addiction,” said Hassan. “At the very least, the American people deserve to know when Big Pharma tries to wield its influence through others. Passing our bipartisan bill would significantly improve transparency, and I urge our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support it.” Download bill text HERE. Background: As then-Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Grassley and Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) recommended expanding CMS’s Open Payments database after exposing a decades-long trend of massive payments from opioid manufactures to nonprofit advocacy organizations. Grassley has also led legislation to require drug and medical device companies to disclose payments to nurse practitioners, physician assistants and other health care professionals, which was added in the 2018 SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sullivan-and-57-congressional-colleagues-ask-college-football-playoffs-to-preserve-army-navy-games-time-honored-tradition,Sullivan & 57 Congressional Colleagues Ask College Football Playoffs to Preserve Army-Navy Game’s ‘Time-Honored Tradition’,2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and chairman of the U.S. Naval Academy’s Board of Visitors (BOV), along with 55 members of Congress and two senators-elect, sent a letter to the executive directors of the College Football Playoff and Bowl Season asking that they preserve the annual Army-Navy football game’s “time-honored tradition” of setting “aside the second Saturday in December in future seasons solely” for the patriotic sporting event. This year’s Army-Navy game will be the first time since 2009 that other games have been scheduled on the same day (excluding the 2020 season which was modified due to the COVID-19 pandemic). “The Army vs. Navy Football Game – affectionately known as “America’s Game” – has long been recognized as one of the greatest events in all of college sports,” Sen. Sullivan and his fellow Congressional Members write in the letter. “The game is so important that it continued to be played even during World War II. Citizens throughout the world look forward to the game’s telecast, which engages the interest of millions of Americans, including the hundreds of thousands of current and former military personnel who watch it. The game is always played in a sold out NFL venue and brings patriotism and pageantry to the fans in the stadium and to the people of the host city. To reflect the immeasurable esteem that this event garnered for decades, it has been played for many years on a Saturday reserved specifically for the Army vs. Navy Game without any competing college football events. . . “We write out of concern that the additional games detract from the focus on our Armed Forces that the nationally televised Army vs. Navy Game provided with a unique day set aside for it. Young Americans often cite the pregame events as igniting their interest in serving in uniform. The airtime of those pregame events are now in jeopardy with a preceding televised college football game. We feel there is no other block of time in television programming that rekindles our nation's patriotism, unity, and confidence in the military and promotes a greater sense of appreciation than this incredible game day production. On behalf of both Army and Navy, all those who are serving or have served our country and the citizens whom we represent, we respectfully request you set aside the second Saturday in December in future seasons solely for the Army vs. Navy Game to preserve this time-honored tradition.” To read the full letter, click here or see below. The letter was first reported in a news story by Dan Saksheske in Outkick. FULL LETTER: Dear Mr. Clark and Mr. Carparelli: The Army vs. Navy Football Game – affectionately known as “America’s Game” – has long been recognized as one of the greatest events in all of college sports. The game is so important that it continued to be played even during World War II. Citizens throughout the world look forward to the game’s telecast, which engages the interest of millions of Americans, including the hundreds of thousands of current and former military personnel who watch it. The game is always played in a sold out NFL venue and brings patriotism and pageantry to the fans in the stadium and to the people of the host city. To reflect the immeasurable esteem that this event garnered for decades, it has been played for many years on a Saturday reserved specifically for the Army vs. Navy Game without any competing college football events. As you know, college commissioners voted unanimously to schedule the twelve-team College Football Playoff (CFP) around the Army vs. Navy Football Game. The decision demonstrated a significant degree of respect extended by the most prominent leaders in college football, which we strongly commend. Nevertheless, the expanded CFP will cause other bowl games—for the first time in recent history—to be played on the same day as the Army vs. Navy Game. We write out of concern that the additional games detract from the focus on our Armed Forces that the nationally televised Army vs. Navy Game provided with a unique day set aside for it. Young Americans often cite the pregame events as igniting their interest in serving in uniform. The airtime of those pregame events are now in jeopardy with a preceding televised college football game. We feel there is no other block of time in television programming that rekindles our nation's patriotism, unity, and confidence in the military and promotes a greater sense of appreciation than this incredible game day production. On behalf of both Army and Navy, all those who are serving or have served our country and the citizens whom we represent, we respectfully request you set aside the second Saturday in December in future seasons solely for the Army vs. Navy Game to preserve this time-honored tradition. We would like to thank you in advance for recognizing the importance of safeguarding the exclusivity of the Army vs. Navy Game and are hopeful we can work together to protect America’s Game. Sincerely, # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/as-protests-continue-in-georgia-shaheen-risch-speak-on-senate-floor-in-support-of-georgian-people-and-democracy-urge-administration-to-act-to-hold-bad-actors-accountable,"As Protests Continue in Georgia, Shaheen, Risch Speak on Senate Floor in Support of Georgian People and Democracy, Urge Administration to Act to Hold Bad Actors Accountable",2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), and U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID), Ranking Member of SFRC, spoke on the Senate floor today in support of the Georgian people’s aspirations to align with the West and to urge the Biden Administration to take strong action against individuals in Georgia responsible for the current violence and political crisis. Earlier this month, the Georgian Dream government suspended its bid to join the European Union, which led to peaceful protests that were met with brute force. You can watch Senator Shaheen’s remarks here and Senator Risch’s remarks here. In her remarks, Senator Shaheen said: “In the aftermath [of the October election in Georgia], the Georgian Dream government decided to yank Georgia off of its Euro Atlantic path. It announced the country would cease negotiating with the European Union over its accession to the bloc. Of course, it’s a move that pleased Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin and reinforced to many his influence over the politics and the policy of Georgia. […] I’m very frustrated because, in my view, we are not doing enough. We have failed to respond in a meaningful way that would help change the calculus of Georgian Dream’s leadership. They are paying no price for their actions as they defy the will of the people and take pages from Putin’s authoritarian playbook. There are well documented human rights violations, but the Treasury Department has failed to sanction a single official for their actions. It’s perplexing—I don't understand it, and I urge the Administration to act immediately. Georgia’s future is in jeopardy, and the Georgian people who have repeatedly supported us deserve our support.” In his remarks, Senator Risch said: “Roughly 80% of the people of Georgia want to pursue EU membership. Unfortunately, the current government – Georgian Dream – is engaging in increasingly disturbing behavior, including the arrest and torture of peaceful protestors. Congress passed legislation that gives the Biden Administration the ability to go in and levy sanctions on those responsible for the violence. I am deeply disappointed that they haven’t done that. The Georgian people don’t want to drift back to the Soviet Union or to Russia. Let’s give them every help that we possibly can to support their democratic aspirations.” Shaheen and Risch have been outspoken about their concern for the deteriorating situation in Georgia and spoke with Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili last week to convey their bipartisan support for her leadership and express serious concern over the violent and brutal response to peaceful protests. Shaheen and Risch led bipartisan legislation, the Georgian People’s Act, that would hold Georgian government officials and individuals responsible for corruption, human rights abuses and efforts to advance the foreign influence law that when passed, cast Georgia’s civil society as dangerous outside agents. In August, Shaheen led a bipartisan, bicameral Congressional delegation to Georgia with U.S. Congressman Michael Turner (R-OH), Chair of the U.S. House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and a member of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee. During their visit, Senator Shaheen and Chair Turner met with Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Foreign Minister Ilia Darchiashvili and Defense Minister Irakli Chikovani to once again raise concerns about democratic backsliding following the passage of the foreign agents law and anti-Western rhetoric and communicate the United States’ commitment to its longstanding partnership with people of Georgia to achieve a Euro-Atlantic future. Before the trip, Shaheen and Risch issued a statement welcoming action by the U.S. State Department to pause $95 million in assistance to the government of Georgia following passage of a foreign agents law. Shaheen first visited Georgia as an election observer with Senator Risch in 2012. She has visited the nation three times since. In the annual defense legislation, Shaheen secured report language that would require the Department of Defense to report to Congress on its review of security cooperation activities with Georgia in light of political unrest. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-mann-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-recognizing-december-as-national-impaired-driving-prevention-month,"Pappas, Mann Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing December as “National Impaired Driving Prevention Month”",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, in coordination with the first day of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congressman Tracey Mann (KS-01) introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing December as “National Impaired Driving Prevention Month”. In the United States, someone is killed or injured in a drunk driving crash every 39 minutes, and an average drunk driver has driven drunk 80 times before their first arrest. Studies have shown that the use of ignition interlocks reduce recidivism by up to 70% in first-time, repeat, and high-risk offenders. In May, Pappas and Mann introduced the bipartisan End Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) Act of 2024, which would create a national ignition interlock standard by encouraging states to adopt mandatory first-time offender ignition interlock laws, helping reduce recidivism and improve road safety by ensuring fewer drunk drivers are on the road. Twenty-four states and D.C., including New Hampshire, already meet the standards outlined in this legislation. “Every life lost to impaired driving is a tragedy and a preventable death. We must do more to address drunk drinking and prevent repeated offenses,” said Congressman Pappas. “During this month, we raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving, support the prevention efforts of federal agencies and local law enforcement, and urge individuals to drive sober. I’ll keep working to pass legislation that will make roads safer for drivers, passengers, and everyone sharing our roads, including my End DWI Act.” “Every year, nearly 14,000 Americans lose their lives to impaired driving,” said Congressman Mann. “During National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, we can increase awareness and provide more resources that reduce these tragedies and save lives. I will continue to support legislation that aims to reduce recidivism like my End DWI Act and makes our roads and passengers safer.” “The SAFE Coalition applauds the leadership of Congressman Pappas and Congressman Mann to highlight December as Impaired Driving Prevention Month and for their leadership to pass the End DWI Act which would improve the nation’s DUI laws and save thousands of lives,” said Brandy Nannini, Board Member of the SAFE Coalition. “Drunk driving is the #1 cause of death on U.S. roadways, and yet it is 100 percent preventable. This holiday season and throughout the year, we urge Americans to make a plan for returning home safely if alcohol is part of your celebration. Always designate a sober driver, use rideshare or public transportation andeducate yourself on how alcohol impairs your ability to drive.” “Every day we lose parents, siblings, friends and loved ones to impaired driving. These individual tragedies represent a national crisis which is completely preventable. This critical resolution to recognize Impaired Driving Prevention Month is an important step in raising awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence. The National Safety Council applauds Reps. Pappas and Mann for their bipartisan leadership to ensure our roads are safe for all,” said Lorraine Martin, President and CEO, National Safety Council.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-statement-on-house-passage-of-defense-authorization-bill,Pappas Statement on House Passage of Defense Authorization Bill,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the below statement following the House vote to pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2025: “As America continues to confront challenges across the globe, it is essential we reauthorize our national defense. This legislation will provide our dedicated service members with the pay raise they deserve and help save lives by taking on the trafficking of deadly drugs like fentanyl. The hundreds of bipartisan provisions in this bill will strengthen our defense, boost New Hampshire’s economy, and improve our service members quality of life.” “However, I share the frustration of many, including the Republican Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, that this process was politicized by House leadership in unprecedented ways. It’s regrettable that Speaker Johnson forced the inclusion of unnecessary riders in this bill that would put LGBTQ+ youth at risk by taking away their ability to seek health care and make decisions with their families and doctors. I urge the Speaker to shift his attention to the issues the American people have asked us to focus on: strengthening our economy, lowering costs, and keeping our nation safe."" New Hampshire priorities in the bill include: Provisions enacting Pappas’s Securing our Northern Border Act, bipartisan legislation that will fortify the northern border and improve interagency coordination to stem the flow of fentanyl and other narcotics coming across the border. Provisions enacting the DISPOSE Act, bipartisan legislation Pappas helped introduce to improve counter narcotics coordination between the United States, Mexico, Colombia, and Peru by establishing new multilateral efforts to identify and securely dispose of precursor chemicals used to make fentanyl and fentanyl-related-substances. A pay raise for New Hampshire servicemembers, including the largest pay raise for junior servicemembers in more than 25 years, specifically authorizing a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers and a 4.5% pay raise for all other servicemembers. Support for our national security and New Hampshire’s economy by authorizing $33.5 billion in shipbuilding funding and the procurement of seven battle force ships, including a Virginia-class submarine. Supporting our servicemembers and their families by authorizing $377 million for new housing and child development centers and making pay for child care staff at DoD childcare centers competitive with private industry. These provisions will help the child care development center at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard improve its infrastructure as well as staff recruitment and retention. Help for servicemembers transitioning to civilian life by improving the Skill Bridge program specifically through increasing the number of private sector apprenticeships available to retiring servicemembers, helping more New Hampshire businesses participate in the program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-marshall-applaud-us-preventive-services-task-force-announcement-in-line-with-their-call-to-protect-enhance-access-to-cervical-cancer-screenings,"Shaheen, Marshall Applaud U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Announcement in Line with Their Call to Protect, Enhance Access to Cervical Cancer Screenings",2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"**Shaheen and Marshall led a bipartisan letter in February urging the administration to renew its efforts to increase cervical cancer screening rates** (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) applauded the new cancer screening guidelines released today by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) that aligns with the Senators’ request to preserve access to regular cancer screenings. In February, Senators Shaheen and Marshall led a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra urging the agency to maintain access to cervical cancer screenings and preserve existing guidelines given data that shows rates increasing in women under 50 in recent years, particularly in rural and underserved communities. USPSTF recognized those same trends and chose to maintain existing guidelines, previously published in 2018, for both cervical cancer and human papillomavirus (HPV). “The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force saw the same worrisome trends we did: women of color and those living in rural areas are disproportionately impacted by a lack of access to screening and therefore more likely to have undiagnosed, untreated cervical cancer. I’m glad the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force agreed with our assessment and acted in response to our request to protect access to life-saving cervical cancer screenings for women under 50,” said Senator Shaheen. “As an OB/GYN, the recent rise in cervical cancer among women under 50 is deeply troubling. What is behind this trend must be researched further, but what we can do right now is expand screening to catch cervical cancer earlier,” Senator Marshall said. “I’m glad to see the HHS take our bipartisan recommendation seriously and increase these lifesaving screening services.” Senator Shaheen has a history of working across the aisle to increase access to preventative screenings. Last year, Shaheen reintroduced her bipartisan Access to Breast Cancer Diagnosis (ABCD) Act to make breast cancer diagnostic tests more accessible and affordable by eliminating copays and other out-of-pocket expenses for these diagnostic tests. The Senator introduced the Protecting Access to Lifesaving Screenings (PALS) Act of 2019 with a bipartisan group of lawmakers. The bipartisan legislation would postpone recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) that would limit access to breast cancer screenings for women in their 40s. In January 2020, in response to a bipartisan call from Shaheen and former U.S. Senator Martha McSally (R-AZ) – and following the introduction of their bipartisan legislation to address the issue – the Department of Defense agreed to expand TRICARE coverage to include 3D mammography, which is the most effective breast cancer screening option. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-statement-following-meeting-with-secretary-of-state-nominee-senator-rubio,Shaheen Statement Following Meeting with Secretary of State Nominee Senator Rubio,2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today issued the following statement after meeting with Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to serve as Secretary of State. A photo from the meeting can be found here. “Today’s meeting with Senator Rubio provided a valuable opportunity to discuss some of the many global challenges facing our nation, including combatting the economic and security challenges posed by the People’s Republic of China and Russia, continuing to sustain bipartisan support for Ukraine amid Russia’s unprovoked invasion and addressing the conflicts across the Middle East, most recently following the fall of former Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad. We also discussed the importance of sustaining current U.S. policy toward Georgia, strengthening U.S. economic competitiveness overseas and making sure positions around the globe are filled by qualified career diplomats as soon as possible. Senator Rubio and I have worked together for years as members of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and I look forward to continuing to discuss these issues further in his confirmation hearing.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-pappas-s-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-post-disaster-services-protect-taxpayer-dollars,"House Passes Pappas’s Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Post-Disaster Services, Protect Taxpayer Dollars",2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today the House passed Congressman Chris Pappas’s (NH-01) bipartisan bill to ensure post-disaster services are delivered timely and taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently, cutting down on waste and fraud. It has passed the Senate and is headed to the President’s desk for his signature. The Disaster Contract Improvement Act would establish oversight on debris removal through the creation of an Advisory Working Group and task the Federal Emergency Management Office (FEMA) Administrator with implementing guidance and procedures for debris removal contracts. “New Hampshire is no stranger to extreme weather, from intense winter storms to severe flooding. It’s critical that we ensure post-disaster services are ready and taxpayer dollars are being used efficiently,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “This bipartisan legislation will strengthen preparation and recovery efforts to help those affected by natural disasters by tackling spending waste and fraud and improving government efficiency. Now that the bill has passed the House and the Senate, I urge the President to sign it into law swiftly.” The Advisory Working Group created by this bill would be composed of representatives from FEMA, the Army Corps of Engineers, State, Tribal, and Local governments, the USDA natural resources and Conservation Service, as well as experts, including those in the debris services contractor industry. The FEMA Administrator, working with this new group, would have one year after the bill's enactment to develop and implement guidance and procedures associated with the debris removal contracts. Background: Following Hurricane Katrina, Congress required FEMA to establish advance contracts for goods and services to enable the government to quickly and effectively mobilize resources in the aftermath of a disaster. FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers used advance contracts for $4.5 billion in goods and services after Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, and the California fires of 2017. In an audit report released in 2018, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that FEMA's guidance on the use of these types of contracts is unclear, and that inconsistent information from FEMA could impair its efforts to help state and local governments use advance contracts.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-urges-baxter-international-to-increase-supply-and-reliability-of-iv-fluid-amid-shortage,NH Delegation Urges Baxter International to Increase Supply and Reliability of IV Fluid Amid Shortage,2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today the New Hampshire delegation sent a letter to Baxter International urging it to address IV fluid supply issues in the state by improving the reliability of shipments and increasing the amount of IV fluid delivered to New Hampshire health care providers. Following damages to Baxter’s IV fluid and dialysis solutions production facility in North Carolina during Hurricane Helene, New Hampshire hospitals, doctors, and paramedics have worked diligently to extend their existing supplies of IV fluid to prevent service disruptions. The letter urges Baxter to provide New Hampshire providers with accurate information on what IV supplies will be delivered to the state. In part the delegation wrote, “In recent weeks, Baxter International has repeatedly failed to deliver the amount of IV supplies that they have promised to our hospitals, and our frontline health care providers have reported a dwindling inventory of IV fluids that threatens to disrupt surgical services for Granite State patients. We are requesting immediate action from Baxter to provide an updated timeline for delivery of IV fluid for the state.” The delegation continued, “While we understand distribution is a complex process, given reports that IV fluid deliveries are unreliable, Baxter must take steps to increase the amount of IV fluid delivered to New Hampshire and improve the reliability of these shipments. This matter is especially urgent as the winter season approaches when providers need an increased supply of IV solution to meet the usual surge in complex care during the colder months.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/shaheen-leads-nh-delegation-letter-to-baxter-international-urging-increased-supply-and-reliability-of-iv-fluid-amid-shortage,Shaheen Leads NH Delegation Letter to Baxter International Urging Increased Supply and Reliability of IV Fluid Amid Shortage,2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) is leading the New Hampshire Congressional delegation in sending a letter to Baxter International today, urging it to address IV fluid supply issues in the state by improving the reliability of shipments and increasing the amount of IV fluid delivered to New Hampshire health care providers. Following damages to Baxter’s IV fluid and dialysis solutions production facility in North Carolina during Hurricane Helene, New Hampshire hospitals, doctors and paramedics have worked diligently to extend their existing supplies of IV fluid to prevent service disruptions. The letter urges Baxter to provide New Hampshire providers with accurate information on what IV supplies will be delivered to the state. The letter was signed by U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), a member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01). In part the delegation wrote, “In recent weeks, Baxter International has repeatedly failed to deliver the amount of IV supplies that they have promised to our hospitals, and our frontline health care providers have reported a dwindling inventory of IV fluids that threatens to disrupt surgical services for Granite State patients. We are requesting immediate action from Baxter to provide an updated timeline for delivery of IV fluid for the state.” The delegation continued, “While we understand distribution is a complex process, given reports that IV fluid deliveries are unreliable, Baxter must take steps to increase the amount of IV fluid delivered to New Hampshire and improve the reliability of these shipments. This matter is especially urgent as the winter season approaches when providers need an increased supply of IV solution to meet the usual surge in complex care during the colder months.” The full text of the letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-leads-nh-delegation-letter-to-baxter-international-urging-increased-supply-and-reliability-of-iv-fluid-amid-shortage,Shaheen Leads NH Delegation Letter to Baxter International Urging Increased Supply and Reliability of IV Fluid Amid Shortage,2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) is leading the New Hampshire Congressional delegation in sending a letter to Baxter International today, urging it to address IV fluid supply issues in the state by improving the reliability of shipments and increasing the amount of IV fluid delivered to New Hampshire health care providers. Following damages to Baxter’s IV fluid and dialysis solutions production facility in North Carolina during Hurricane Helene, New Hampshire hospitals, doctors and paramedics have worked diligently to extend their existing supplies of IV fluid to prevent service disruptions. The letter urges Baxter to provide New Hampshire providers with accurate information on what IV supplies will be delivered to the state. The letter was signed by U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), a member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01). In part the delegation wrote, “In recent weeks, Baxter International has repeatedly failed to deliver the amount of IV supplies that they have promised to our hospitals, and our frontline health care providers have reported a dwindling inventory of IV fluids that threatens to disrupt surgical services for Granite State patients. We are requesting immediate action from Baxter to provide an updated timeline for delivery of IV fluid for the state.” The delegation continued, “While we understand distribution is a complex process, given reports that IV fluid deliveries are unreliable, Baxter must take steps to increase the amount of IV fluid delivered to New Hampshire and improve the reliability of these shipments. This matter is especially urgent as the winter season approaches when providers need an increased supply of IV solution to meet the usual surge in complex care during the colder months.” The full text of the letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/at-reagan-national-defense-forum-shaheen-reaffirms-americas-unwavering-bipartisan-support-for-nato-and-ukraine-discusses-future-of-democracy-worldwide,"At Reagan National Defense Forum, Shaheen Reaffirms America’s Unwavering Bipartisan Support for NATO and Ukraine, Discusses Future of Democracy Worldwide",2024-12-08,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Simi Valley, CA) – At the Reagan National Defense Forum, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chair of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation, Co-Chair of the bipartisan U.S. Senate NATO Observer Group and a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, joined a panel to discuss America’s continued bipartisan support for NATO, Ukraine and promoting democracy worldwide. The panel, titled A Secure and Free Europe: NATO, Ukraine, and the Arsenal of Democracy, featured U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Co-Founder of Anduril Industries Brian Schimpf, Swedish Minister of Defense Pål Jonson, Former Secretary of the U.S. Army Ryan McCarthy and was moderated by Karen DeYoung of the Washington Post. The annual Reagan National Defense Forum brings together defense leaders from across the world to discuss policies that strengthen our national security. You can watch the full panel discussion here. “There continues to be a strong bipartisan consensus in Congress that we should continue to support Ukraine in their courageous efforts to address the Russian aggression in the country,” said Shaheen. “I think we need to put NATO membership on the table as we’re looking at any future discussion around what happens in Ukraine, and obviously the Ukrainians need to be part of that discussion – it can’t just be the United States, Europe and Russia... Obviously NATO is a consensus organization so there would have to be an agreement, but it needs to be on the table as we’re looking at negotiations.” Last month, Shaheen and U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, led the annual bipartisan Congressional delegation to participate in the 16th annual Halifax International Security Forum to discuss strategic cooperation on shared global security goals with hundreds of national security leaders from across the world. She recently spoke at the National Security Innovation Forum with U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and U.S. Department of Defense Under Secretary Bill LaPlante, the Pentagon’s chief acquisition officer, about the importance of maintaining a bipartisan approach to national security goals and challenges in the 119th Congress and beyond. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-issues-statement-in-response-to-end-of-the-bashar-al-assad-regime,Shaheen Issues Statement in Response to End of the Bashar al-Assad Regime,2024-12-08,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees, released the following statement in response to the end of the Assad regime in Syria: “After almost 14 years of war, Bashar al-Assad, a brutal dictator who is responsible for the senseless deaths of thousands of Syrians, has fled the country. It is now critical that the future of Syria be determined through a political process that reflects the will of the Syrian people. The International Community, including the United States, must continue to provide aid that supports the people of Syria as they rebuild their country. “While the departure of Assad is a welcome development, the political and security situation remains fragile and it’s critical that efforts are taken to prevent the resurgence of ISIS in Syria. This will require continued efforts to secure the ISIS detention camps and continue our counter-ISIS mission to ensure the lasting defeat of ISIS. “The end of Assad’s regime also marks a strategic defeat for his enablers in Moscow and Tehran who have kept him in power. For years, Vladimir Putin has propped up Assad, resulting in countless deaths and a prolongation of a ruthless campaign of violence against the Syrian people.” Senator Shaheen has long led efforts to focus attention on the humanitarian and security situation in Syria and address the national security and humanitarian crises caused by the Syrian civil war and the rise and subsequent fall of ISIS. In 2018, Shaheen authored legislation to establish the Syria Study Group to complete a comprehensive assessment of the conflict in Syria and ways to address the consequence of the violence. One of the Study Group’s recommendations included the establishment of the ISIS Detainee Coordinator position, which Shaheen authored legislation to codify in the Fiscal Year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act. In 2018, she joined a delegation with Senator Graham to Syria and Iraq, where she visited the detainee and displaced persons camps and met with officials on ways to address security and humanitarian needs. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-joins-bipartisan-group-calling-for-passage-of-bipartisan-legislation-to-crack-down-on-xylazine,Pappas Joins Bipartisan Group Calling for Passage of Bipartisan Legislation to Crack Down on Xylazine,2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined a bipartisan coalition of House members in calling for urgent passage of his bipartisan Combating Illicit Xylazine Act. Xylazine, also known as “tranq,” is an easily accessible veterinary tranquilizer that is being used as a low-cost cutting agent for fentanyl. Since it is not an opioid, its effects cannot be reversed by naloxone. The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy has designated fentanyl combined with xylazine as an “emerging threat.” This bipartisan legislation would schedule this dangerous drug and give law enforcement the tools they need to go after traffickers while protecting access for veterinarians, farmers, cattlemen, and ranchers who use xylazine to treat large animals. “Congress has the power to revise current statute to protect communities, preserve legitimate access to veterinary medicine and human medical research, and safeguard our critical livestock industry,” wrote the Members. “As bipartisan cosponsors of the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act, we stand united in the need to address this urgent threat. Illicit xylazine is too great a crisis to wait any longer, and we urge the inclusion of this updated bipartisan, bicameral version of the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act in end-of-year legislation.” The bill currently has 101 cosponsors in the House of Representatives and is endorsed by 39 state attorneys general, major law enforcement organizations, and veterinary organizations. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (NV), Chuck Grassley (IA), and Maggie Hassan (NH) are leading companion legislation in the Senate.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/to-lower-costs-for-consumers-and-businesses-shaheen-urges-administration-to-immediately-approve-pending-energy-efficiency-standards,"To Lower Costs for Consumers and Businesses, Shaheen Urges Administration to Immediately Approve Pending Energy Efficiency Standards",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, sent a letter urging the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Shalanda Young to immediately review and approve all ten energy efficiency standards for appliances that are currently pending before the agency. In her letter, Shaheen details how approving the remaining energy efficiency standards would save consumers and businesses an estimated $8.7 billion annually while substantially reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions. In part, the Senator wrote: “Appliance and equipment energy standards are critical to saving constituents and businesses in my state money on their energy bills, while driving innovation in the marketplace and reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate the effects of climate change. In light of these benefits, I urge you to prioritize reviewing and approving these efficiency standards.” The full text of the letter can be found here. Shaheen has long championed work to secure federal investments in clean energy and energy efficiency initiatives and to lower energy costs in New Hampshire and across the country. In the FY24 government funding bills, Shaheen helped defend key energy efficiency programs at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) from cuts, including securing $366 million for weatherization efforts and $66 million for the State Energy Program, which works to bring down energy bills for families and communities. Shaheen also secured continued support for the annual U.S. Energy and Employment Report (USEER) that tracks key jobs data in the energy sector. Recently, Shaheen, as Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, hosted a field hearing and resource fair at the University of New Hampshire in Manchester on investments in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act that can help small businesses lower their energy costs, transition to the clean energy economy and build resilience. Following the field hearing, small businesses participated in a resource fair and met with federal agencies and state business support programs. Shaheen was a lead negotiator of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which made huge investments in energy efficiency, including $550 million for Industrial Research and Assessment Centers and assistance for small- and medium-sized manufacturers to implement efficiency upgrades based upon her longstanding bipartisan legislation with former U.S. Senator Rob Portman. Granite Staters looking for energy efficiency resources can check out Senator Shaheen’s Federal Energy Resource Guide. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/01/23/2025/passed-the-senate-cassidy-hassan-legislation-to-improve-health-care-for-expectant-mothers,"PASSED THE SENATE: Cassidy, Hassan Legislation to Improve Health Care for Expectant Mothers",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statements applauding the U.S. Senate passage of their bipartisan legislation aimed at improving health care for expectant mothers. The bicameral Connected Maternal Online Monitoring (MOM) Act now awaits action in the U.S. House of Representatives. “Maternal mortality is preventable and far too common in Louisiana today,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Passing this bill through the Senate is one step closer to providing high-risk moms the comfort to stay in their homes while her physician remotely monitors her and her baby’s health.” “Too many women across New Hampshire and our country face significant barriers to accessing regular prenatal and postpartum care – whether they live in rural communities, struggle with childcare, or juggle demanding work and family responsibilities,” said Senator Hassan. “Our bipartisan legislation recognizes how medical technology can help bridge these gaps, making it easier for women to access remote monitoring tools that can help detect potential pregnancy complications early. I will continue working across the aisle to address our maternal health crisis and ensure that every woman receives the health care she needs.” This legislation was also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN), Tom Carper (D-DE), John Thune (R-SD), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV). The Connected MOM Act requires the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide coverage recommendations for remote devices such as those that can check for irregularities in blood pressure, blood glucose, and pulse rates which can be indicators of potential pregnancy complications. It also requires CMS to update state resources, such as state Medicaid telehealth toolkits, to correspond with the recommendations provided. The goal is to improve maternal and infant outcomes for pregnant and postpartum women. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/passed-the-senate-cassidy-hassan-legislation-to-improve-health-care-for-expectant-mothers,"PASSED THE SENATE: Cassidy, Hassan Legislation to Improve Health Care for Expectant Mothers",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statements applauding the U.S. Senate passage of their bipartisan legislation aimed at improving health care for expectant mothers. The bicameral Connected Maternal Online Monitoring (MOM) Act now awaits action in the U.S. House of Representatives. “Maternal mortality is preventable and far too common in Louisiana today,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Passing this bill through the Senate is one step closer to providing high-risk moms the comfort to stay in their homes while her physician remotely monitors her and her baby’s health.” “Too many women across New Hampshire and our country face significant barriers to accessing regular prenatal and postpartum care – whether they live in rural communities, struggle with childcare, or juggle demanding work and family responsibilities,” said Senator Hassan. “Our bipartisan legislation recognizes how medical technology can help bridge these gaps, making it easier for women to access remote monitoring tools that can help detect potential pregnancy complications early. I will continue working across the aisle to address our maternal health crisis and ensure that every woman receives the health care she needs.” This legislation was also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN), Tom Carper (D-DE), John Thune (R-SD), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV). The Connected MOM Act requires the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide coverage recommendations for remote devices such as those that can check for irregularities in blood pressure, blood glucose, and pulse rates which can be indicators of potential pregnancy complications. It also requires CMS to update state resources, such as state Medicaid telehealth toolkits, to correspond with the recommendations provided. The goal is to improve maternal and infant outcomes for pregnant and postpartum women. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-presses-postmaster-general-dejoy-about-plan-to-move-mail-processing-out-of-new-hampshire-during-senate-committee-hearing,Senator Hassan Presses Postmaster General DeJoy about Plan to Move Mail Processing Out of New Hampshire During Senate Committee Hearing,2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan pressed Postmaster General Louis DeJoy about the United States Postal Service (USPS)’s proposed plan to move postal operations from Manchester, New Hampshire to Boston and from White River Junction, Vermont to Hartford, Connecticut. Senator Hassan has repeatedly raised concerns about these plans, and previously worked with her colleagues to temporarily delay these plans. To watch Senator Hassan’s hearing questions, click here. “I want to focus a bit on the ways that you can work to strengthen mail service and I want to also share my concerns about some of the proposals that you have that would make mail service worse in my state, for Granite Staters,” Senator Hassan said. “The postal service has a plan to move some postal operations from Manchester, New Hampshire to Boston. I oppose the plan because implementation of it will harm service and delay delivery. I also oppose moving operations from White River Junction, Vermont to Hartford, Connecticut because White River Junction serves Granite Staters in the northern part of New Hampshire.” Senator Hassan emphasized the potential service impacts of moving postal operations, noting that the Postal Service Inspector General reported that moving postal operations in Virginia and Georgia resulted in “an immediate and significant decline in service performance.” Senator Hassan then continued, “We know too that those declines continued for several months, and that these facilities are still struggling to meet their on-time delivery goals.” Senator Hassan then pressed Postmaster General DeJoy to commit to seeking an analysis from the Postal Regulatory Commission on the impact of the planned service changes and how they will affect Granite Staters. When Postmaster General DeJoy refused to commit to seeking an independent analysis, Senator Hassan made clear that she will “continue to strongly oppose the plans especially in the absence of an independent review of the service impacts in New Hampshire.” Senator Hassan also pressed for technological investments to improve employee safety and customer service and addressed service reliability concerns raised by Granite Staters. Senator Hassan has previously led efforts to strengthen the USPS. For instance, in 2022, Senator Hassan and colleagues’ bipartisan legislation to strengthen the USPS and improve the agency’s long-term financial stability was signed into law. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/amid-violence-in-georgia-senators-shaheen-cardin-risch-coons-graham-and-durbin-speak-with-georgian-president-zourabichvili-a-leading-critic-of-the-georgian-dream-government-to-discuss-decision-to-end-eu-membership-bid,"Amid Violence in Georgia, Senators Shaheen, Cardin, Risch, Coons, Graham and Durbin Speak with Georgian President Zourabichvili, a Leading Critic of the Georgian Dream Government, to Discuss Decision to End EU Membership Bid",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Chair of SFRC, Jim Risch (R-ID), Ranking Member of SFRC, Chris Coons (D-DE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following joint statement after speaking with the popularly-elected Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili, a leading critic of the government led by Prime Minister Irakli Khobakidze of the Georgian Dream Party, about the increasingly troubling political situation in Georgia following the government’s decision to suspend European Union accession agenda: “We spoke with Georgian President Zourabichvili to convey our bipartisan support for her leadership and express our serious concern over the violent and brutal response to peaceful protests following the Georgian government’s decision to suspend the country’s European Union accession negotiations. “For days, the people of Georgia have exercised their right to peaceful protest following the unconstitutional decision to disregard the aspirations of the vast majority of Georgians who want a future in the European Union. There is strong, bipartisan and bicameral support for the people of Georgia. This should serve as a reminder to Georgian Dream that U.S. policy will remain unchanged in the coming months. “We welcome the Biden Administration’s recent announcement of its intent to apply targeted sanctions on those responsible for undermining Georgia’s institutions and violence against its people and we hope steps are taken to expedite this process. The coming days will be critical for Georgia’s future and the United States must continue its 32-year tradition of supporting its fragile but hard-fought democracy.” Shaheen and U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued a statement Sunday expressing concern about the violence unfolding in the aftermath of the Georgian government’s decision to suspend EU accession negotiations and called on the State Department to impose sanctions on individuals responsible for undermining Georgia and committing violence against peaceful protestors. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/senators-shaheen-and-wyden-representatives-neal-and-underwood-leaders-schumer-and-jeffries-release-cbo-findings-detailing-impact-on-americans-health-insurance-should-enhanced-premium-tax-credits-expire-in-2025,"Senators Shaheen and Wyden, Representatives Neal and Underwood, Leaders Schumer and Jeffries Release CBO Findings Detailing Impact on Americans’ Health Insurance Should Enhanced Premium Tax Credits Expire in 2025",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"**Shaheen and Underwood introduced bicameral legislation earlier this year to permanently extend the vital health insurance subsidies** (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Ron Wyden (D-OR), Chair of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, with U.S. Representatives Richard E. Neal (D-MA), Ranking Member of the U.S. House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee, and Lauren Underwood (D-IL) as well as U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. House of Representatives Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries secured new data from the U.S. Congressional Budget Office (CBO) detailing the impact on Americans’ health insurance should the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits (PTCs) expire at the end of 2025. If Congress does not extend these tax credits, premiums will increase by 7.9 percent and 3.8 million Americans will go uninsured altogether. The full text of the lawmakers’ CBO request can be found here. CBO’s findings released today can be found here. “New data from CBO confirms what we feared: if Congress fails to extend these tax credits, health care costs will skyrocket for millions of families and 3.8 million Americans will lose coverage entirely,” said Shaheen. “At a time when Americans are already facing higher prices, we should do everything we can to lower costs when and where we can. It’s time we pass my Health Care Affordability Act to permanently extend the tax credits so many families rely on.” “This is a stark preview of health care under Donald Trump: higher insurance premiums for families who buy health coverage on their own, and more uninsured Americans who can’t afford health insurance at all,” Wyden said. “Republicans have an opportunity to end their ideological crusade against the Affordable Care Act and work in a bipartisan manner to make health care more affordable for working families, but instead they seem poised to hand another big tax break to corporations and the wealthy.” “These vital tax credits are at risk of expiring – unless we act. Democrats made massive progress in making heath care more affordable for millions of Americans. Congress should work in a bipartisan manner to extend these middle class tax cuts rather than give another tax break to corporations and the ultra-wealthy,” said Leader Schumer. “The Affordable Care Act transformed our health care system, and already this year, Open Enrollment is breaking records with nearly 1 million new consumers selecting coverage for 2025,” said Ranking Member Neal. “Today’s analysis shows that abandoning this life-saving credit is a sure-fire way for President Trump and Republicans to throttle the American people with a sicker, more expensive way of life. Unless they want to raise taxes on workers and families and leave millions uninsured, passing an extension is not negotiable.” “Because of the American Rescue Plan and Inflation Reduction Act, Congressional Democrats were successful in lowering the cost of health care for millions of hardworking taxpayers. The Congressional Budget Office’s report today illustrates the critical need to extend the enhanced ACA tax credits with the fierce urgency of now. We are calling on House and Senate Republicans to partner with us to lower health care costs for American families,"" said Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. “Our Health Care Affordability Act provides quality, affordable health care coverage for millions of American families—many of them for the very first time. These savings are a lifeline, but if we don’t act now, Americans will see higher health care costs when these popular tax credits expire in 2025,” Underwood said. “This legislation works and we are running out of time. Congress must act immediately to pass our legislation and make these lower health care costs permanent.” In September, Shaheen and Underwood introduced the Health Care Affordability Act, which would make permanent the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits for Health Insurance Marketplace coverage as extended through the Inflation Reduction Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-s-bill-to-designate-chief-michael-maloney-post-office-in-greenland-passes-house,Pappas’s Bill to Designate ‘Chief Michael Maloney Post Office’ in Greenland Passes House,2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) led the House in passing legislation to designate the U.S. Postal Service facility located at 609 Portsmouth Avenue in Greenland, New Hampshire, as the Chief Michael Maloney Post Office, in honor of the late Chief Michael Maloney who served as a law enforcement officer for 26 years, including 12 as the Chief of the Greenland Police Department before he was tragically killed in the line of duty. Ahead of the vote, Pappas delivered remarks on the House floor to honor the life and legacy of Police Chief Michael Maloney, to share the impact he had on his community and the officers he oversaw, and to urge his colleagues to support this legislation. “Chief Maloney was a dedicated public servant, community leader, and law enforcement professional who served his country in the Army Reserves, as well as his state as a police officer, rising to the rank of Chief of the Greenland Police Department in 2000,” said Congressman Pappas. “Tragically, in 2012, Chief Maloney was killed in the line of duty, just eight days before his retirement. To this day, he is remembered as someone with a ‘bigger than life’ personality and who cared deeply about his community and worked with purpose and passion each and every day to make it safer and stronger. It is a small token of our thanks and appreciation to name this Post Office in Chief Michael Maloney’s honor to remind future generations of that legacy and of his tremendous service and ultimate sacrifice on behalf of the community he loved."" Chief Michael Maloney served as an law enforcement officer for 26 years, including 12 as the Chief of the Greenland Police Department. He grew up in North Hampton and was a graduate of Winnacunnet High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the Army Reserves and served as a drill inspector, graduated from the New Hampshire Police Academy, and received his bachelor’s in criminal justice from Hesser College. To begin his 26-year career in law enforcement, he started as a part-time officer in Rye; he then joined North Hampton Police Department as a full-time officer, where he was promoted to Chief of Police in 1997. In 2000, he became the Chief of the Greenland Police Department where he served until he was killed in the line of duty on April 12, 2012, just 8 days before retirement, while participating in a drug raid operation with the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force. Before being fatally wounded, he pulled wounded officers to safety and sent them to the Portsmouth Regional Hospital. Chief Maloney received recognitions including: Fraternal Order of Police Medal of Honor; New Hampshire Chiefs of Police Medal of Honor; Medal of Honor by the town of Greenland, NH; New England Chiefs of Police Association Medal of Valor; Career Achievement award from the New Hampshire Congressional Law Enforcement Panel.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/to-the-presidents-desk-hassan-cornyn-colleagues-bill-to-increase-transparency-of-federal-grant-application-process,"TO THE PRESIDENT'S DESK: Hassan, Cornyn, Colleagues’ Bill to Increase Transparency of Federal Grant Application Process",2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), John Thune (R-SD), Gary Peters (D-MI), John Kennedy (R-LA), and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) released the following statements after their Grant Transparency Act, which would require government agencies to provide competitive grant applicants with more information about their selection criteria and evaluation process, passed the Senate and now heads to the President’s desk: “Grant applicants often don’t have enough information to know why they are not awarded a competitive grant despite meeting all of the criteria,” said Sen. Cornyn. “The Grant Transparency Act would require government agencies to shine a light on how they decide between applicants behind closed doors, and I urge the President to swiftly sign it into law.” “Federal grant funding provides essential support to small towns and organizations, but the current process can often leave applicants in the dark about how their applications will be evaluated,” said Sen. Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation will help grant applicants understand exactly how they can successfully compete for federal funding that can make a real difference in their local communities.” “State and local leaders work hard to develop a strong application process for federal funding,” said Sen. Thune. “This legislation would require agencies to increase transparency of the grant application process, which would help ensure that funding is truly based on merit, not political favoritism.” “Grant dollars can be a game changer for communities, but too often applicants lack the information needed to effectively compete for these important federal investments,” said Sen. Peters. “This bipartisan legislation will help applicants across Michigan and the country better understand how their projects will be evaluated, making sure every community has a fair shot at accessing these resources.” “Louisianians deserve to know how the government chooses competitive grant recipients,” said Sen. Kennedy. “The president should move quickly to sign the Grant Transparency Act into law so that applicants can better understand how organizations can access this crucial funding.” “Communities throughout Georgia rely on federal grants to better the lives of their community members. But too often, the lack of transparency and clarity from federal agencies makes the barrier to entry for these grants almost unfeasible for the communities that need them most,” said Sen. Warnock. “Because of our bipartisan efforts, legislation to more easily connect our local communities with federal resources is on its way to becoming law.” Background: The Grant Transparency Act would require the Notice of Funding Opportunities (NOFO) for competitive grants to include: A description of any rating system, evaluation, and selection criteria the agency uses to assess applications for the competitive grant; A statement of whether the agency uses a weighted scoring method and a description of any weighted scoring method the agency uses for the competitive grant, including the amount by which the agency weights each criterion; And any other qualitative or quantitative merit-based approach the agency uses to evaluate an application for a competitive grant. Senator Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) is also a cosponsor of the legislation. U.S. Representatives Russell Fry (SC-07) and Jasmine Crockett (TX-30) led companion legislation in the House. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cassidy-hassan-introduce-bill-to-connect-individuals-to-the-workforce,"Cassidy, Hassan Introduce Bill to Connect Individuals to the Workforce",2024-12-03,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) introduced legislation to build our workforce and help connect individuals to good jobs. The Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act strengthens the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which has a proven track record of connecting disadvantaged individuals to employment and has long received bipartisan support. The WOTC provides a federal tax credit to employers who invest in American workers who have consistently faced barriers to employment, including eligible veterans, SNAP recipients, individuals with disabilities, and long-term unemployed individuals. Employers incur higher recruitment and training costs to reach WOTC eligible populations and support their successful transition back into employment. WOTC has not been updated since its enactment twenty-seven years ago and its value has been eroded significantly due to inflation. “It can be challenging for individuals to find jobs after being out of the workforce,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This bill helps employers help prospective employees struggling to find work, boosting the American economy and reducing the reliance on government assistance.” “Creating economic opportunity for all Americans is essential to our country’s success,” said Senator Hassan. “Our bipartisan legislation will help connect more Americans across the country with good-paying jobs, while also lowering costs for businesses who invest in hiring veterans, people with disabilities, and others who may face barriers to employment. This tax cut is a commonsense, bipartisan way to support job growth and economic opportunity in New Hampshire and across the country.” Companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Lloyd Smucker (R-PA-11), Terri Sewell (D-AL-07), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Steven Horsford (D-NV-04), and Mike Kelly (R-PA-16). “The restaurant industry has hundreds of thousands of jobs that it needs to fill every month, many of which can be filled by individuals who have traditionally faced barriers to employment. Getting these people back to work is valuable to the individual, the restaurant operator and the community. We appreciate Sens. Cassidy and Hassan’s efforts to improve on WOTC as a tool for restaurant operators to hire needed staff and increase their business viability,” said Sean Kennedy, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs, National Restaurant Association. “The Louisiana Restaurant Association applauds Sen. Cassidy for his leadership in introducing the Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) Act. Restaurants in Louisiana are not just places to enjoy great food; they are training grounds for skill development and second chances for many individuals facing employment barriers. The WOTC program is essential for fostering opportunities, strengthening our workforce, and contributing to the economic vitality of our communities,” said Stan Harris, President and CEO, Louisiana Restaurant Association. “The Critical Labor Coalition applauds Senators Cassidy and Hassan for their leadership on this important issue. The ongoing. labor shortage presents significant challenges to business owners; the Work Opportunity Tax Credit provides opportunities to those facing barriers to workforce entry and stimulates job growth. The “Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act” also addresses the need to increase the credit after 25+ years, a much-needed adjustment for current employers,” said Misty Chally, Executive Director, Critical Labor Coalition. “FMI – The Food Industry Association applauds Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) for introducing this legislation to improve the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC). WOTC is an important workforce-building tool, utilized by our grocery, wholesaler, and product supplier members, to hire individuals facing barriers to employment. FMI is excited to work with Senators Cassidy and Hassan and House companion bill sponsors Representatives Lloyd Smucker (R-PA) and Terri Sewell (D-AL) on strengthening the path for veterans, SNAP participants, justice-involved individuals, and others to obtain meaningful employment in the food industry through enactment of this measure,” said Christine Pollack, FMI Vice President, Government Relations. “The Work Opportunity Tax Credit has been a vital resource for franchise business owners that provide job opportunities to workers who have faced barriers to employment. IFA applauds Sens. Cassidy and Hassan for taking this important step to help franchised businesses hire workers from underserved communities and provide additional relief, especially since finding labor remains the most significant challenge for local franchises,” said Mike Layman, Chief Advocacy Officer, International Franchise Association. The legislation is endorsed by the American Health Care Association, American Hotel & Lodging Association, American Seniors Housing Association, American Staffing Association, American Trucking Associations, Argentum, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc., Due Process Institute, NAACP, NAPEO, National Association of Convenience Stores, National Association for Home Care and Hospice, National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors, National Beer Wholesalers Association, National Franchisee Association, National Grocers Association, National Urban League, NATSO, Representing America's Travel Centers and Truck Stops, Retail Industry Leaders Association, Retail Merchants Association, SIGMA, America's Leading Fuel Marketers, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council, and Society for Human Resource Management. Background: The National Employment Opportunity Network reports that the WOTC has saved federal governments an estimated $202 billion over ten years. The Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act would update the WOTC, which has not been changed since its enactment twenty-seven years ago and encourage longer-service employment. The bill would (1) increase the current credit percentage from 40% to 50% of qualified wages and (2) add a second level of credit for employees who work 400 or more hours. In addition, the bill eliminates the arbitrary age cap at which SNAP recipients are eligible for WOTC. This change will provide an incentive to hire older workers and better align the credit with previously adopted work reforms. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/passed-the-senate-senators-hassan-cassidy-kelly-and-schmitts-bipartisan-bill-to-support-gold-star-spouses,"PASSED THE SENATE: Senators Hassan, Cassidy, Kelly, and Schmitt’s Bipartisan Bill to Support Gold Star Spouses",2024-12-03,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate unanimously passed last night a bipartisan bill introduced by U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) to expand access to job counseling services for Gold Star and surviving spouses. The Gold Star and Surviving Spouse Career Services Act increases access to job counseling services for surviving spouses – spouses of service members who died while serving in the military – through the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program, a program housed within the Veterans’ Employment and Training Service at the Department of Labor. The program provides every state with funding to hire dedicated workforce specialists to provide individualized career counseling support with localized knowledge to eligible veterans, and the Senators’ bill expands access to these services to surviving spouses. “We owe it to the families of fallen service members to do all that we can to support them after their devastating loss,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan bill will ensure that surviving spouses have access to job counseling services and will help address some of the employment challenges that the families of those who have served face. I urge my colleagues in the House to work with us to get this commonsense bill across the finish line as part of our ongoing efforts to live up to our promise to support military families.” “The families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice deserve the best we have to offer,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Passing this bill is the first step toward ensuring Gold Star spouses always have access to the services they need.” “I am pleased the Senate passed this important bill that honored our commitment to the families of service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Kelly. “Expanding access to these resources will provide critical support to families navigating unimaginable loss, helping them secure good-paying jobs and stability for their futures. I’m proud to see this bipartisan effort move closer to becoming law.” “This bill is a common sense, bi-partisan step forward to make sure the families of those who gave their lives for our country are able to receive the services they need. I’m proud to join Senator Hassan on this effort, and I’m hopeful we can continue work together to support our Gold Star families,” said Senator Eric Schmitt. This bipartisan bill is part of Senator Hassan’s ongoing work to support service members, veterans, and their families. She introduced the Military Spouse Hiring Act to help boost hiring of military spouses. Senator Hassan helped develop and pass into law the PACT Act, which fundamentally reforms and improves how veterans exposed to toxic substances receive health care and benefits from the VA. Senator Hassan also helped pass into law comprehensive, bipartisan retirement security legislation, including provisions she authored with Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), to help military families save for retirement. Additionally, Senator Hassan introduced and passed into law the bipartisan Reserve Component Parental Leave Parity Act, which expanded parental leave eligibility for Reserve and National Guard members to cover all new parents. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/multiple-big-tech-executives-respond-to-shaheen-led-push-to-strengthen-efforts-to-crack-down-on-the-spread-of-non-consensual-intimate-imagery,Multiple Big Tech Executives Respond to Shaheen-Led Push to Strengthen Efforts to Crack Down on the Spread of Non-Consensual Intimate Imagery,2024-12-03,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"**In August, Shaheen led a bipartisan push to urge big tech participation in programs cracking down on non-consensual intimate imagery on online platforms** (Washington, DC) – Several big tech companies have responded to letters led by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, and Rick Scott (R-FL) urging their participation in two voluntary programs – Stop NCII and Take It Down – to better locate and take down non-consensual intimate imagery (NII) on their online platforms. In their responses, Amazon, Discord, Google, Match, Microsoft, Patreon, Pinterest, Twitch and Zoom outlined steps being taken to combat the rise in NII, including support for Stop NCII and Take It Down. The Senators did not receive written responses from X or OpenAI. “We need to use every tool at our disposal to protect people—particularly young women and girls—from this dangerous, illicit activity,” said Shaheen. “While I’m pleased that many of these Big Tech organizations are taking action, there’s more we must do to hold them accountable for the content on their platforms by strengthening efforts to remove such explicit, non-consensual images.” Response letters can be found below: Amazon Discord Google Match Microsoft Patreon Pinterest Twitch Zoom OpenAI In August, Shaheen and Scott led a bipartisan group of Senators—including U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Joe Manchin (I-WV), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Angus King (I-ME), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Bob Casey (D-PA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Ron Wyden (D-OR)—in asking that twelve big tech companies join the Take It Down and Stop NCII programs, which allow online users to remove explicit images of themselves from digital platforms. The increasing spread of NII remains a dangerous and concerning trend in a rapidly evolving digital world. Last year, the Revenge Porn Helpline reported an alarming 106 percent increase in total reports received compared to the previous year, 34 percent of which represented cases of sextortion. Shaheen is a vocal advocate for efforts to increase online privacy and protections for youth. In the Committee-passed Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2025, Shaheen secured language encouraging the U.S. Department of Justice to prioritize investigating sextortion. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-risch-issue-statement-regarding-violence-in-georgia-following-suspension-of-european-union-membership-accession,"Shaheen, Risch Issue Statement Regarding Violence in Georgia Following Suspension of European Union Membership Accession",2024-12-01,2024,2024-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Jim Risch (R-ID), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the below statement regarding the violence in Georgia following suspension of European Union membership: “We are very alarmed by the situation unfolding in Georgia where peaceful protest has been met with brute force and violence following the government of Georgia’s unconstitutional decision to disregard the aspirations of the majority of the Georgian people by suspending its European Union membership accession. We stand with the Georgian people who have a right to peacefully protest. “There is strong bipartisan, bicameral support in the United States Congress for the Georgian people, and we will work to ensure that the Georgian government and individuals responsible for election interference, violence against peaceful civilians, and other acts that undermine the territorial integrity of Georgia are held accountable. “We call on the State Department to make its position clear and unequivocal regarding the current use of force against peaceful protestors and we urge the current and incoming administrations to commit to supporting freedom and democracy in Georgia. The Biden Administration decision to suspend our Strategic Partnership with Georgia is a good start but now is the time to use all of the tools at the disposal of the U.S. government, including sanctions, to remind the Georgian government that actions have consequences. The Georgian people deserve to know that the United States will not sit idly by as this situation deteriorates.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-delivers-remarks-at-veterans-day-ceremony-in-dover,Shaheen Delivers Remarks at Veterans Day Ceremony in Dover,2024-11-11,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Dover, NH) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, delivered remarks today at the Veterans Day ceremony at Veterans Park in Dover. Shaheen joined U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Mayor Bob Carrier and members of the American Legion Post 8 to honor the service and sacrifice of veterans. Photos from the event can be found here. “On Veterans Day, we honor the brave Americans in our communities who put their lives on the line so that we may continue to live free,” said Senator Shaheen. “From the birth of our nation through today, courageous servicemembers have answered the call to fight for the freedom and security of our country and its people. While we can never fully repay the debt owed to those who serve, we have a responsibility to ensure that our veterans have the benefits and care they need, and I’ll continue working in Congress to expand and protect those resources.” Senator Shaheen has spearheaded efforts in the Senate to support veterans and military families. In the committee-passed (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Shaheen secured Granite State priorities including expanding access to child care for military families, expanded efforts to research the health impacts of harmful forever chemicals and a 4.5 percent pay raise for service members and civilians to ensure military families receive the pay and benefits they deserve. Each year, Shaheen leads the bipartisan Senate resolution with Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) to recognize an annual National Warrior Call Day, which encourages Americans to reach out and build meaningful relationships with both those currently serving and veterans and will take place on November 17, 2024. In 2022, Shaheen worked to include provisions and helped pass the historic PACT Act, which expanded health care for veterans who were exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-recognizes-linda-sarette-of-sanbornton-as-novembers-granite-stater-of-the-month,Senator Hassan Recognizes Linda Sarette of Sanbornton as November’s Granite Stater of the Month,2024-11-08,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan recognized Linda Sarette of Sanbornton as November’s Granite Stater of the Month. Since 2019, Linda has dedicated herself to maintaining the gardens at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, ensuring this final resting place for fallen service members is a place of beauty and calm. Linda was first motivated to tend the cemetery gardens after her late father, who served in the Coast Guard, was laid to rest at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen. When Linda visited her father’s grave, she noticed the section lacked a garden. The staff told her that they would plant one if she would care for it, and she has been tending gardens at the cemetery ever since. Raised to understand the value of service, Linda nurtures the more than 100 gardens across the cemetery – planting flowers, weeding, and trimming hedges – working up to four days a week in the spring. Linda has found a community of volunteers at the cemetery and gotten to know many of the visitors who come to pay respects to their loved ones. Along with gardening, she offers comfort to grieving families on quiet days and places wreaths and flags on graves during the holidays. Her work is a beautiful example of the Granite State spirit of showing respect toward those who serve, in life and in death. Senator Hassan launched the “Granite Stater of the Month” initiative in 2017 to recognize outstanding New Hampshire citizens who go above and beyond to help their neighbors and make their communities stronger. To nominate a New Hampshire citizen to be a “Granite Stater of the Month,” constituents can complete the nomination form here. To read Senator Hassan’s statement for the Congressional Record, see below. I am honored to recognize Linda Sarette of Sanbornton as November’s Granite Stater of the Month. Linda has been tending the gardens at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery since 2019, ensuring that the final resting place of fallen service members is a place of beauty and calm. Linda was raised to understand the value of service. Her father served in the Coast Guard, and after his death in 2019, he was buried at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen. The cemetery is a place that is deeply important to our state – where we can reflect on the brave Granite Staters who gave the words ""Live Free or Die"" true meaning. Linda noticed that there was no garden in the section that her father was buried in and the staff told her that they would put one in if she would care for it – and she has been tending gardens at the cemetery ever since. Linda has been gardening for her entire life, and she uses her knowledge and skills to plant flowers, weed, and trim the hedges at the more than 100 gardens throughout the cemetery, working up to four days a week in the spring. Over the years, Linda has found a family of volunteers at the cemetery. She has gotten to know many of the people that come to visit loved ones at the cemetery. Throughout the years, different people have also joined Linda in volunteering to take care of the gardens, but regardless of whether other volunteers are there, she has remained a constant presence. Linda is there on quiet days, comforting families going through a difficult time, and she is there on holidays to place wreaths and flags at each grave. Linda’s commitment to ensuring that all fallen service members are shown dignity at their final resting place is a beautiful example of the Granite State spirit of showing respect toward those who serve, in life and in death. Her kindness in supporting the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery is why I am proud to name her November’s Granite Stater of the Month. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-crapo-risch-send-bipartisan-letter-urging-coast-guard-to-allow-states-to-collect-fees-when-vessels-are-registered-to-help-fund-boating-and-water-safety-efforts,"Shaheen, Crapo, Risch Send Bipartisan Letter Urging Coast Guard to Allow States to Collect Fees When Vessels are Registered to Help Fund Boating and Water Safety Efforts",2024-11-08,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Jim Risch (R-ID) sent a bipartisan letter urging the U.S. Coast Guard to revert to its longstanding statutory interpretation that allowed states to collect fees for boating-related programs during the boat registration and Certificate of Numbering (CON) process. Recently, the Coast Guard blocked a number of states from coupling CON fees with state fees, which, the Senators note, help fund programs to address aquatic invasive species, boating safety, search and rescue and others. Earlier this year, the Senators introduced the bipartisan State Boating Act that would make clear the ability of states to collect state boating fees alongside CON fees and registration. In part, the Senators wrote: “We write to seek your help with a recent Coast Guard statutory reinterpretation that will cause states difficulty in funding and managing boating safety and related programs and increase costs for recreational boaters. As you may know, the agency decided to reverse its previous interpretation of 46 U.S.C. 12307 that had allowed states to bundle payment for the issuance of the Certificate of Number (CON) for recreational vessels with related state boating fees for search and rescue, aquatic invasive species (AIS) and other boating safety programs. Despite the fact that the prior statutory interpretation was the status quo for over 50 years, the Coast Guard informed a number of states, including ours, that this prior practice violated federal law and needed to end if states did not want to risk losing their share of the Recreational Boating Safety grant program.” They concluded: “The Coast Guard’s drastic decision to overturn its decades long policy when the prior interpretation was not only authorized, but also working, is truly puzzling, especially when the Coast Guard’s new policy is likely to increase costs and lower revenues for critical state programs with no discernable improvements. For these reasons, we ask that the Coast Guard immediately use all available tools and authorities, including a rulemaking, to revert back to its prior interpretation to permit our states to again couple federal and state fees.” The text of the letter can be found here. Most boats owned and operated on the waters of the United States must have either a Certificate of Documentation (COD) or a CON on board when operating. Additionally, boats with propulsion machinery must have on board a valid CON or temporary certificate, unless the vessel qualifies for an exception under the law. Most vessel owners obtain a CON from the state in which they spend the most time operating. States can administer their own numbering programs if those programs comply with Standard Numbering System (SNS) requirements and receive Coast Guard approval. However, according to the Coast Guard’s reading of its enabling statute, states are authorized to condition the issuance of vessel numbers only for proof of ownership, proof of payment of state or local taxes, and/or proof of liability insurance. A number of states have been collecting additional state fees with the CON fees to fund and support boating and environmental programs, like aquatic invasive species, boating safety, search and rescue and other purposes. After multiple audits in states like New Hampshire and Idaho, the Coast Guard has directed states not to collect state boating fees alongside CON fees. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-meets-with-northern-border-law-enforcement-officials-receives-briefing-on-border-security,"Shaheen Meets with Northern Border Law Enforcement Officials, Receives Briefing on Border Security",2024-11-08,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Pittsburg, NH) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, met with northern border law enforcement officials last week to receive a briefing on border security operations and ongoing communications challenges due to the remoteness of the area and lack of technology infrastructure. Included at the roundtable discussion and briefing were members of the New Hampshire Department of Safety, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and state and local law enforcement. The meeting follows Shaheen’s discussion with law enforcement officials last year and her ongoing advocacy to bring the necessary resources to the community to keep Granite Staters safe. In addition to numerous grants to local departments in New Hampshire, Senator Shaheen has worked to include $225,000 in the Fiscal Year 2025 federal funding legislation for the Northern Border Dispatch to upgrade technology and improve communication for officers working in the Northern Border’s rural communities. She previously helped to secure $1.1 million for infrastructure improvements at Northern Border Dispatch through State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) from the American Rescue Plan. “Our law enforcement agencies on the Northern Border face unique challenges when it comes to maintaining a secure environment, particularly challenges related to staffing shortages and lack of adequate communication infrastructure,” said Senator Shaheen. “I was pleased to hear directly from border patrol and local law enforcement officials, and I’ll continue working in Congress to ensure that they have the equipment, resources and information they need to keep Granite Staters safe and secure.” As a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Shaheen has been integral to funding law enforcement across the country. Shaheen has pushed the Department of Homeland Security to collect and provide New Hampshire-specific migrant encounter data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Last year, Shaheen sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas calling on CBP to release this data and for an expansion of telecommunications infrastructure and attention to other resources to assist law enforcement in the region. Senator Shaheen has long advocated for and worked to enhance protections at our northern border. When she was the top Democrat on the U.S. Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, she oversaw increased funding for CBP and included direction to the Department of Homeland Security to focus on the northern border. As Governor, and in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, she worked on a bipartisan basis with the New Hampshire State Legislature to increase security at the border and at ports of entry. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-statement-on-election-results,Senator Hassan Statement on Election Results,2024-11-06,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statement on the election of Donald Trump as the next President of the United States: “Foundational to our democracy is the right for people to make their voices heard at the ballot box, and last night the American people elected Donald Trump. While neither I nor a majority of Granite Staters voted for him, we must now work together on a bipartisan basis to tackle the critical issues that people are facing. “We also must stay focused on the mission statement laid out in our Declaration of Independence – that all Americans are created equal and deserve equal protection under the law. People of differing backgrounds, political beliefs, and zip codes will need to work together to uphold these ideals and protect our Constitution. “What was true before the election remains true today: I will continue my commitment to listening to all of my constituents, no matter who they voted for, and working with my colleagues across the aisle to find common ground and deliver results. And I continue to be grateful for Granite Staters and Americans across the country who exercise their right to vote, speak up for what they believe in, and work to make a difference.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-statement-on-re-election-of-donald-trump,Shaheen Statement on Re-Election of Donald Trump,2024-11-06,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement after it was projected that Donald Trump has been re-elected as President of the United States: “In America, when the people have spoken and every vote has been counted, we declare a winner and there’s a peaceful transfer of power. I join the millions of Americans who are deeply disappointed by these results and share their concerns for the future of their rights and freedoms. “To every Granite Stater, I am proud to continue representing you in the Senate. I will roll up my sleeves and continue working to ensure that the issues that matter to you—including lowering health care costs, creating more jobs, supporting small businesses, expanding access to affordable housing and child care—are always a top priority. “I urge Donald Trump to be a president for every American and to put the needs and security of our country above all else.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-cassidy-hassan-release-policy-framework-on-medicare-site-neutral-reform-to-lower-health-care-costs,"Cassidy, Hassan Release Policy Framework on Medicare Site-Neutral Reform to Lower Health Care Costs",2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) today released a legislative framework to address site-neutral Medicare payment reform to lower health care costs for patients and save taxpayer dollars. Current Medicare regulations allow hospitals to take advantage of the higher Medicare payment structure for hospitals, allowing them to charge the highest possible price for services that can be done in less expensive settings. Many procedures can be done safely and in a less expensive setting like a physician’s office, yet hospitals continue to charge higher prices to do the same. “As a doctor, my focus is always providing the best care at the most affordable cost,” said Dr. Cassidy. “If the same care can be safely provided in different settings, patients should not pay hundreds more simply because their doctor works in a hospital. Our framework provides a path to ensure that.” “Patients should not be forced to pay higher bills just because their regular doctor’s office was purchased by a hospital,” said Senator Hassan. “Our bipartisan site-neutral payment framework demonstrates how we can significantly lower health care costs for seniors on Medicare – which in turn will save taxpayers billions of dollars. Our bipartisan framework would also make significant investments in rural and high-needs hospitals that serve their local communities. I look forward to continuing to work with Senator Cassidy and our colleagues on both sides of the aisle on future legislation. There is bipartisan agreement that by pursuing site neutral payment in Medicare, we can lower costs and ensure that more people can get the health care that they need.” Read the full policy framework here. Site-neutral policies would require Medicare to pay the same rate for the same service, regardless of where the service is delivered (e.g., hospital, ambulatory surgery center, outpatient clinic). Currently, Medicare patients and taxpayers share the cost of hospital “facility fees.” These fees, which can be hundreds of dollars, are typically charged when a patient receives basic care—such as a steroid shot or allergy test—in a hospital setting regardless of what the procedure is. These extra fees drive up patient costs and increase provider consolidation incentives, such as hospital ownership of non-hospital care settings such as physician offices. Consolidation reduces patient choice among providers and increases overall health care costs for patients in highly consolidated markets. Cassidy and Hassan’s framework proposes establishing site-neutral payments in off-campus hospital outpatient departments and for common outpatient services. The framework is endorsed by the United States of Care, Third Way, Small Business Majority, the ERISA Industry Committee, Families USA, Bipartisan Policy Center, the Community Oncology Alliance, West Health Policy Center, the Committee to Protect Health Care, Americans for Prosperity, Alliance to Fight for Health Care, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, Aledade, American Benefits Council, and Arnold Ventures. “We know from our listening work that cost is the primary source of anxiety for people when seeking health care, and that it often prevents people from getting the care that they need. Establishing site-neutral payment policy not only promotes fair billing practices for services we all rely on, but it strikes at the core of what people want changed with our health care system,” said United States of Care CEO and Co-Founder Natalie Davis. “This framework is a great first step towards implementing site-neutral payments, and by investing the savings from these reforms into rural hospitals, we’re reinforcing access to health care in communities across the nation. I applaud Sens. Cassidy and Hassan for their hard work and commitment in driving these targeted changes that will help promote transparency, fairness, and access.” “Small business owners consistently tell us that they’re struggling under the weight of increasingly high healthcare costs,” said Small Business Majority Founder & CEO John Arensmeyer. “Something has to be done to get these expenses in check, and site-neutral billing is a great way to help contain healthcare costs. If we don’t take action to address the enormous cost of healthcare, more and more small businesses will be forced to make difficult decisions such as cutting back employee benefits or, in some cases, closing down their businesses.” “Employers applaud Senators Hassan and Cassidy for advancing site-neutral payment policies, which drive down costs and promote fair competition. Patients should receive quality care without worrying whether their costs will be inflated by provider consolidation. We look forward to working with Congress to enact these policies into law,” said James Gelfand, President & CEO of the ERISA Industry Committee. “While hospitals need to be financially sound, what is good for their bottom line is not necessarily good for patients or taxpayers,” said Tim Lash, President of West Health Policy Center. “The time for site-neutral payment reform is long overdue, which is why West Health is supportive of the bipartisan legislative framework put forth by Senators Cassidy and Hassan. Site-neutrality is commonsense policy that could save billions of dollars in healthcare spending, and legislation that closes this policy loophole needs to advance as quickly as possible.” “Ensuring Americans are paying the same price for the same service regardless of where they seek care is essential to lowering health care costs. Today, Medicare enrollees pay up to four times more for routine care provided at a hospital-owned outpatient facility compared to the cost at an independent doctor’s office, incentivizing large hospital monopolies to buy up physician practices and increase prices. We applaud Sens. Cassidy and Hassan for putting forth a bipartisan framework for comprehensive site-neutral payment reform, a commonsense solution that would lead to savings for Medicare enrollees and taxpayers,” said Mark Miller, Executive Vice President at Arnold Ventures. “Your health care costs shouldn’t go up just because a corporate hospital system bought your doctor’s office,” said David Merritt, Senior Vice President of External Affairs at Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. “That’s why we applaud Sens. Hassan and Cassidy for releasing a legislative framework that puts consumers first. It ends the practice of hospitals gobbling up independent physician practices and then charging patients as much as five times more for the same service simply because the office changes names. This an important step toward making health care more affordable for all Americans.” “We have a health care affordability crisis in this country, with America’s families struggling to afford the care they need. Yet all across the nation, big hospital corporations keep jacking up the price of care, buying up small, family-owned doctor’s offices so they can charge more and more for the exact same care and services. It’s time to hold these big corporations accountable and bring down costs for patients. Families USA strongly supports the bipartisan work of Senators Hassan (D-NH) and Cassidy (R-LA) to make sure that people pay the same price for the same health care service, regardless of where the care is delivered. This legislative framework is the roadmap to enacting comprehensive site neutral payment reform which will lower costs for people and save our health care system money, and Congress should get it done,” said Anthony Wright, Executive Director of Families USA. “The Community Oncology Alliance commends Senator Cassidy for his leadership in putting forth a framework for legislation to create site payment parity, which will reduce medical costs for Medicare seniors, regardless of where they are treated. Higher hospital costs are contributing to mounting medical debt, forcing seniors on fixed incomes to choose between paying hospital bills and keeping food on the table. As a physician, Senator Cassidy also understands that small hospitals are failing, creating treatment ‘deserts’ in rural and underserved communities and need immediate help,” said Ted Okan, Executive Director of the Community Oncology Alliance. “As a national mobilization of over 20,000 physicians and health care advocates, the Committee to Protect Health Care is proud to support this site neutral payment reform framework from Senators Hassan and Cassidy,” said Dr. Rob Davidson, Executive Director of the Committee to Protect Health Care. “Doctors are increasingly concerned about the growing trend of consolidation among hospitals and outpatient care settings, and how the resulting higher costs for patients often dissuade them from seeking needed care. Common-sense, bipartisan site neutral payment reforms can help protect our patients from being charged more for the same care just because of where they receive it. We thank Senators Hassan and Cassidy for laying this groundwork for continued discussion and look forward to helping shape the legislation that comes from these efforts.” “Corporate hospital systems are driving up the cost of healthcare. What’s worse, a recent report found that corporate hospital systems are threatening to dump patients’ insurance networks in an attempt to increase their profits. This bait and switch tactic takes advantage of innocent patients through predatory billing practices that increase their out-of-pocket costs and what their employers pay in premiums. Better Solutions for Healthcare commends Sens. Hassan and Cassidy for acknowledging this problem and offering pragmatic solutions to lower the price patients pay for care,” said Connie Partoyan, Executive Director of Better Solutions for Healthcare. “Employers see site-neutral payment reform as critically important policy to restore competition among health care providers and to better align incentives with value, which are essential to lowering health care costs,” said Ilyse Schuman, Senior Vice President for Health and Paid Leave Policy at the American Benefits Council. “The bipartisan framework set forth today by Senators Cassidy and Hassan not only recognizes the problem but offers common-sense solutions that will lower costs while protecting rural hospitals. We applaud them for leading the charge against runaway health care prices and urge all of Congress to follow their example.” “Same service, same price! Patients should be free to choose the care setting that’s best for them. That’s why we support site-neutral payment reform and the bipartisan SITE Act, and it’s why we welcome this thoughtful new framework from Senators Cassidy and Hassan,” said Dean Clancy, Senior Health Policy Fellow at Americans for Prosperity. “This bipartisan proposal would give all Americans more personalized health care options, leading to lower out-of-pocket costs for patients, less waste for taxpayers, and more competition in local communities – with protections for local safety-net providers. It’s time for fair billing in health care by making payments to providers site neutral.” “Incentives that encourage hospitals to consolidate are leaving patients paying more for health care. This bipartisan framework would protect seniors from paying more to hospitals for the same services that are safely and commonly provided in independent physicians’ offices at a much lower price tag. As a result, out-of-pocket costs and premiums would go down, and Medicare’s financial security would drastically improve. Third Way applauds Senator Cassidy and Senator Hassan for leading the charge to reduce the high cost of health care and make hospital care more affordable for patients,” said Darbin Wofford, Senior Health Policy Advisor at Third Way. “We commend Senators Cassidy and Hassan for their leadership in addressing the key issues driving hospital consolidation and the decline of independent physicians,” said Lawson Mansell, Health Policy Analyst at the Niskanen Center. “Medicare’s practice of paying hospitals and outpatient departments higher rates for routine services that are often provided in physician offices distorts the healthcare market and raises costs for patients. This framework introduces a pragmatic approach to site-neutral payments, correcting harmful financial incentives that inflate healthcare costs while ensuring that hospitals with greater needs can receive appropriate reinvestment.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-hassan-ernst-announce-upcoming-bipartisan-legislation-to-crack-down-on-foreign-adversaries-directing-violent-crimes-in-the-us,"Senators Hassan, Ernst Announce Upcoming Bipartisan Legislation to Crack Down on Foreign Adversaries Directing Violent Crimes in the U.S.",2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) announced that when the Senate returns into session, they will introduce bipartisan legislation to strengthen criminal penalties to hold accountable individuals who commit or attempt to commit violent crimes in the United States on behalf of foreign adversaries. This legislation follows reports that Iran is paying criminal organizations to carry out violent crimes, including attempted assassinations, against critics of the Iranian regime who are residing in the United States. Senators Hassan, Ernst, and a bipartisan group of colleagues previously wrote to the DOJ calling for more information – and the need for increased criminal penalties – to address this issue as well. “We need to do more to stop the new and chilling set of attempted crimes by our foreign adversaries who are trying to silence their critics in the United States by directing criminals in our country to harm them,” said Senator Hassan. “Our upcoming bipartisan legislation will help ensure that those who commit or attempt these heinous acts face serious consequences and deter others from accepting offers to do the dirty work of foreign governments.” “Iran is bringing their reign of violence to our homeland, and bad actors helping the regime carry out its proxy terrorism must be met with consequences,” said Ernst, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. “Any person or organization that does the bidding of foreign adversaries on U.S. soil jeopardizes Americans’ safety. We must end the growing footprint of Tehran’s terrorism and deter this criminal behavior by ensuring it’s met with the full force of the justice system.” The DETERRENCE Act would, among other potential measures, create minimum sentences for criminals who knowingly act at the direction of, or in coordination with, a foreign government to commit crimes such as murder-for-hire, threatening or assaulting current/former U.S. officials, kidnapping, and stalking. The legislation aims to both hold offenders accountable and deter individuals, including criminal organizations, from working with foreign adversaries to carry out violence on American soil. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-bipartisan-colleagues-call-on-mark-zuckerberg-to-remove-and-prevent-ads-for-illicit-drugs-on-meta-platforms,"Shaheen, Bipartisan Colleagues Call on Mark Zuckerberg to Remove and Prevent Ads for Illicit Drugs on Meta Platforms",2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"**Shaheen is building on her Cooper Davis Act and leading the push to crack down on drug trafficking through social media** (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, is leading a bipartisan letter with U.S. Senators Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) calling on Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg to take action to remove and prevent advertisements for illicit drugs on all Meta platforms. The letter builds on Shaheen and Marshall’s bipartisan Cooper Davis Act to hold social media companies accountable for reporting to law enforcement illicit drug and opioid activities occurring on their platforms. In part, the Senators wrote: “The United States is in the midst of a drug epidemic, with more than 100,000 Americans dying from overdoses last year, and an alarming amount of these drugs are sold online. It is crucial that everyone work to ensure these illegal drugs are found and taken off the streets. Therefore, we call on Meta to improve its human automated advertising review and content moderation to address these failures that are placing lives at risk.” According to a Wall Street Journal report from earlier this year, the Tech Transparency Project (TTP) found that Meta has run hundreds of advertisements on Facebook and Instagram that steer users to online marketplaces for illegal drugs. The Shaheen-led letter urges Zuckerberg to support the Cooper Davis Act and work as quickly as possible to prevent further harm. The Senators continued: “When presented with these disturbing findings, Meta took down some advertisements off its platforms. However, Meta’s refusal to prevent illicit drug advertisements, while accepting advertisement payments that are harming families and in clear violation of Meta’s policies, is particularly alarming. Surely, this is not what Meta means when it states its ‘mission is to give people the power to build community and bring the world closer together.’” Text of the letter can be found here. Shaheen has spearheaded crucial legislation, led efforts and secured funding to stem the opioid epidemic. Earlier this week, the Senator held a roundtable with the Youth CAN coalition leadership team and community partners to discuss the organization’s work to prevent youth substance misuse in New Hampshire. Last month, Shaheen introduced the bipartisan Keeping Drugs Out of Schools Act to strengthen efforts to address the substance misuse disorder crisis that is impacting communities across the nation by establishing a new grant program. The Cooper Davis Act would require social media companies and other communication service providers to turn over information relating to illicit online fentanyl activity to federal agencies to combat the illegal sale and distribution of counterfeit and controlled substances occurring on their platforms. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-announces-265000-to-help-nh-businesses-adopt-pollution-prevention-practices,"Pappas Announces $265,000 to Help NH Businesses Adopt Pollution Prevention Practices",2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in announcing that the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) has been selected to receive $265,000 in grants to provide technical assistance to businesses to develop and adopt pollution prevention (P2) practices in local communities. The NHDES will provide P2 technical assistance to New Hampshire’s craft beverage sector with an emphasis on reducing environmental and health impacts for businesses and disadvantaged communities. As part of the BetterBev New England Green Craft Beverage Recognition Program, NHDES will continue to work with other New England P2 technical assistance providers to assist craft beverage producers in implementing environmentally friendly practices which save energy, conserve water, minimize wastewater, avoid toxic or hazardous chemicals, and reduce greenhouse gasses. “Pollution prevention means stopping pollution at the source and protecting the health of our families, communities, and environment,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “Thanks to the bipartisan infrastructure law, which I fought to pass, this grant will provide businesses with federal resources to craft and adopt pollution prevention practices, reducing their costs and safeguarding our water, land, and air.” “I’m pleased to see this funding come to New Hampshire to help our businesses and industry take meaningful steps to prevent pollution right at the source,” said U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “Through energy efficiency, water conservation and other pollution reduction strategies, this program helps businesses save money while benefitting the broader community.” “We all have a role to play in mitigating pollution and preserving our environment for future generations to enjoy,”said Congresswoman Annie Kuster. “I’m deeply appreciative of the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to lowering costs for Granite State families and businesses by empowering them to address pollution at its sources, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact the P2 program continues to have on the well-being of our communities and environment.” “Every community deserves clean air, safe water, and a healthy environment—and pollution prevention grants help achieve that by reducing waste at the source. By adopting smarter and innovative practices that limit the use of toxic materials and conserve resources, these investments are helping our partners to support New England businesses to cut costs, grow sustainably, and protect the environment,” said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, together we’re creating lasting benefits for local economies and ensuring that environmental progress and economic growth go hand in hand and reach all communities, including those that need it most. That's Investing in America.” “The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services is pleased to be a recipient of EPA grant funds to continue work with craft food and beverage facilities to help foster these important local industries while reducing their environmental footprint,” said New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Commissioner Robert R. Scott. Pollution prevention, also known as P2 or source reduction, is any practice that reduces, eliminates, or prevents pollution at its source prior to recycling, treatment, or disposal. Preventing pollution at the source rather than managing waste afterwards is an important way to support American business’ efforts to reduce costs, while protecting communities from exposure to toxic chemicals and conserving natural resources. These practices are essential for protecting health, improving environmental conditions–including in and around disadvantaged communities–and preserving natural resources like wetlands, groundwater sources, and other critical ecosystems.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-visits-public-housing-development-to-discuss-weatherization-highlights-weatherization-installer-apprenticeship,"Shaheen Visits Public Housing Development to Discuss Weatherization, Highlights Weatherization Installer Apprenticeship",2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Berlin, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a lead negotiator of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, visited a multi-unit public housing development undergoing weatherization installations to improve energy efficiency and lower monthly costs. During a tour of the complex, Shaheen discussed the benefits of weatherization with residents, as well as participants in the Tri-County Community Action Program’s Registered Apprenticeship for weatherization installers, which is the first of its kind in New Hampshire. As a lead negotiator of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Shaheen helped secure $3.5 billion for weatherization assistance nationwide, including more than $18 million for New Hampshire. You can find photos from the event here. “Weatherizing homes is one of the best things we can do to reduce monthly energy costs, all while making progress toward our climate goals and keeping Granite Staters safe from extreme temperatures,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to have secured funding for New Hampshire’s weatherization efforts through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that is supporting this new apprenticeship program to expand the weatherization workforce. I’ll keep working in Congress to find ways to upgrade our infrastructure while saving money for Granite State households.” Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) funding helps homes become more energy efficient through measures like installing insulation, updating heating and cooling systems and updating electrical appliances. For every dollar invested by WAP, $4.50 is generated in combined energy savings and non-energy benefits such as improved health and job creation, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In addition to saving families money, energy efficient homes also help cut down on our carbon footprint, reducing the greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change. If you think you may be eligible for WAP funding, apply through your local Community Action Agency at CAPNH.org and check out Senator Shaheen’s recently updated Federal Energy Guide for more ways Granite Staters can save money on their utility bills. As a lead negotiator of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Shaheen helped secure $3.5 billion in additional funding for the Weatherization Assistance Program, including $18 million for New Hampshire. Shaheen has long-championed the Weatherization Assistance Program to lower energy costs for low-income families in New Hampshire, as well as the State Energy Program, which assists states with the development of energy efficiency renewable projects. Last year, Shaheen helped introduce the Weatherization Assistance Program Improvements Act, a bipartisan bill that would strengthen the Weatherization Assistance Program and increase the number of homes the program is able to serve. Shaheen also introduced the bipartisan Investing in State Energy Act, legislation to ensure that annual funding for weatherization and the State Energy Program is released to states as quickly as possible. In response to a shortage of weatherization installers in New Hampshire, Tri-County Community Action Program (TCCAP) launched an apprenticeship program to train new workers in the field. TCCAP’s program is supported by Training and Technical Assistance funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and is the first program of its kind in New Hampshire. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-helps-welcome-10-million-in-federal-funding-to-help-nh-communities-address-environmental-justice-challenges,Pappas Helps Welcome $10 Million in Federal Funding to Help NH Communities Address Environmental Justice Challenges,2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in announcing that the University of Connecticut’s (UConn) Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center (TCTAC) is open and accepting requests from communities and organizations across New England for technical assistance to help address local environmental justice challenges. In New Hampshire, UConn will partner with various organizations to engage with local communities. This is one of 17 TCTACs across the country and was awarded $10 million to support this work for five years. This TCTAC will provide critical support to overburdened communities in New Hampshire and across New England. The assistance will help local communities navigate the federal grant application process, strengthen their capacity for community engagement, and ensure they can benefit from funding opportunities from the Inflation Reduction Act and bipartisan infrastructure law. “I fought to pass the bipartisan infrastructure law and the Inflation Reduction Act to deliver federal resources to New Hampshire communities,” said U.S. Representative Chris Pappas. “This technical assistance center will improve access to these resources for environmental and health challenges that our underserved and rural communities continue to face. I’ll keep working to cut red tape for federal resources that address the needs of Granite Staters and help our communities grow and thrive.” “We must continue working to break down the barriers that rural and other underserved communities face when applying for and receiving federal funding, which is why programs like Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Centers (TCTAC) are so critical,” says U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “Granite State communities should not hesitate to utilize this resource from EPA Region 1 that will help bring more federal dollars to those that need it the most.” “You shouldn’t need an advanced degree to navigate and access federal funding opportunities,” said U.S. Representative Annie Kuster. “UCONN’s designation as a regional technical assistance center will help empower often underserved communities all across New Hampshire and New England by providing training and other assistance to build capacity for navigating federal grant application systems, setting them up for success in the years to come.” “Too often, communities with the most pressing environmental justice concerns have been left behind due to barriers in accessing federal funding,” said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “UConn’s technical assistance center is a game-changer for New England and will provide greater access to services to ensure overburdened and underserved communities and our Tribal nations can access historic investments to address generational environmental and health disparities.” “As Connecticut’s flagship university, UConn takes pride in service to our communities and helping to prepare them for the environmental challenges they face in the present and the future,” says Pamir Alpay, UConn Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship. “With the EPA’s generous support, we are proud to extend our expertise and resourcefulness to support environmental justice throughout the cities, towns, and Tribes of New England.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-leads-hellenic-caucus-in-introducing-oxi-day-resolution-0,Pappas Leads Hellenic Caucus in Introducing Oxi Day Resolution,2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), co-chair of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus, is leading bipartisan members of the Hellenic Caucus in introducing a resolution to designate October 28th as Oxi Day. On October 28, 1940 Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas refused to surrender to Axis forces, answering ""Oxi!"" - or ""No!"" - to Italian dictator Benito Mussolini's 3 A.M. ultimatum that he allow Axis forces to freely enter Greece or face war. Prime Minister Metaxas' refusal to relent to fascism sparked a national resistance movement and Greece ultimately became the first country to repel the Axis invasion. Greece's resistance required Nazi forces to delay their invasion of Russia to intervene in the Greco-Italian War, a delay which caused the Nazi regime to face a brutal Russian winter which hindered their advance and ultimately led to their eventual defeat. “84 years ago, the Greek people demonstrated unprecedented bravery and determination in their refusal to bow to the Axis Powers during World War II. Decades later, we continue to recognize how this monumental decision shaped history,” said Congressman Pappas. “As a proud Greek-American, I’m honored to lead this resolution to honor Greece’s role in defending democracy during World War II and our shared commitment to standing up to those that violate another nation’s sovereignty.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-leads-roundtable-on-youth-substance-misuse-prevention-in-claremont-visits-hypertherm-to-discuss-workforce-development-continues-invest-in-nh-tour-with-visit-to-schaefer-center-for-health-sciences-at-colby-sawyer-college-nursing-school,"Shaheen Leads Roundtable on Youth Substance Misuse Prevention in Claremont, Visits Hypertherm to Discuss Workforce Development, Continues “Invest in NH Tour” With Visit to Schaefer Center for Health Sciences at Colby-Sawyer College Nursing School",2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Claremont, NH) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) led a roundtable in Claremont on substance misuse prevention with Youth CAN leadership and community members. She then visited Hypertherm in Lebanon to discuss workforce challenges, housing and child care. Later, Shaheen continued her “Invest in NH Tour” with a visit to the Schaefer Center for Health Sciences at the Colby-Sawyer College Nursing School, which she secured funding to build. Photos from today’s events can be found here. In Claremont, Shaheen led a roundtable with the Youth CAN coalition leadership team and community partners to discuss the organization’s work to prevent youth substance misuse in the Claremont and Newport area. Youth CAN is part of the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Program which provides grants to local community coalitions to address the youth substance use disorder crisis. “It is crucial that we reach children as early as possible to educate them about the dangers of substance misuse, and one of our most effective tools to do that is the Drug-Free Communities Program, said Senator Shaheen. “I’ve strongly advocated for the program and was happy to meet with Claremont and Newport’s coalition and discuss their critical work to prevent substance misuse.” Shaheen has spearheaded crucial legislation and funding to stem the opioid epidemic, including to support the DFC Program. Shaheen recently introduced the Keeping Drugs Out of Schools Act to establish a new grant program that allows DFC coalitions to partner with schools to provide resources educating students about the dangers of drug use. Shaheen then visited Hypertherm, an employee-owned manufacturer of cutting products and software, to tour its facility and discuss the company’s in-house technical training program for workforce development, as well as engagement with Vital Communities’ Corporate Council to address regional housing and child care challenges. Vital Communities’ Corporate Council collaborates with Upper Valley employers to help solve the challenges they’re facing. “Many Granite State businesses, like Hypertherm in Lebanon, face complex barriers to recruiting and retaining a workforce,” said Senator Shaheen. “I was pleased to visit Hypertherm to learn more about the manufacturer's innovative approach to workforce development and their collaboration with Vital Communities as well as discuss how Congress can continue help New Hampshire businesses address housing and child care challenges.” Senator Shaheen has long supported programs that support workforce development and increase opportunities and growth for New Hampshire businesses, including by tackling New Hampshire’s housing affordability crisis and the child care crisis. Recently, Shaheen joined Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su at A Place to Grow to host a roundtable discussion at the facility to discuss the first U.S. Department of Labor approved apprenticeship program for early childhood education operations managers and a new report emphasizing the importance of care workers. Later, as part of her “Invest in NH Tour”, Shaheen visited the Schaefer Center for Health Sciences at Colby-Sawyer College to discuss its new nursing and health sciences facility, which is funded in part by Congressionally Directed Spending. Shaheen secured $1.5 million in the Fiscal Year 2022 government funding legislation to construct the new building and to help address critical health care workforce needs by training the next generation of nurses. “As health care workforce shortages continue to impact our state, I was glad to visit and tour the Schaefer Center for Health Sciences at Colby-Sawyer College where they’re training the next generation of nurses,” said Senator Shaheen. “I secured funding to help construct the building and was glad to learn more about how the program is working to fill desperately needed nursing positions in the Granite State.” Senator Shaheen has spearheaded numerous efforts in the Senate in support of New Hampshire’s health care workforce. During negotiations surrounding the American Rescue Plan Act, Shaheen helped steer efforts to increase funding for the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) to ensure hospitals, nursing homes and other health care providers on the frontlines had the support they needed to keep their doors open and continue to care for patients. As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen secured $17,419,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending in the FY 2024 government funding legislation to support health care and education needs in the Granite State. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-risch-issue-joint-statement-in-response-to-georgian-elections,"Shaheen, Risch Issue Joint Statement in Response to Georgian Elections",2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) and Chair of the Europe and Regional Security Cooperation Subcommittee, and Jim Risch (R-ID), Ranking Member of SFRC, released the following joint statement in response to the elections in Georgia over the weekend: “Despite our recent concerns with democratic backsliding in Georgia, we had hoped to see a commitment by the Georgian government to run a free and fair election process that reflected the wishes of the Georgian people. In reality, we have witnessed something different in this weekend’s parliamentary elections. Reporting shared by the OSCE/ODHIR, International Republican Institute, National Democratic Institute, and ISFED show multiple violations that severely compromised the standards for democratic elections. We are also alarmed by the dozens of reports of election day interference, including violence, voter intimidation and ballot stuffing, that could have further damaged the integrity of yesterday’s election results. “We call on the Department of State, in partnership with our European friends, to immediately investigate reports of fraud and any external interference to determine whether any actions have seriously impacted the outcome of the elections. Those responsible should be held accountable. “This is a precarious moment for Georgia. The ruling party, Georgian Dream, must recognize that its actions could have immediate consequences on its economic and security agenda. Russia has also undoubtedly benefitted from sowing division and disinformation. We recognize the right of the Georgian people to, if they so choose, protest peacefully and call on the relevant Georgian authorities to respect this deeply important democratic right. “If needed, we will make additional changes to our bipartisan legislation, the Georgian People’s Act, to ensure that those responsible for fraud and manipulation of the election process are held accountable. The US Senate is fully committed to supporting the democratic aspirations of the Georgian people.” Last week, Shaheen and Risch announced that 10 additional Senators intend to cosponsor their bipartisan Georgian People’s Act – legislation that would hold Georgian government officials and individuals responsible for corruption, human rights abuses and efforts to advance the foreign influence law or facilitate its passage. Earlier this summer, Shaheen led a bipartisan, bicameral Congressional delegation to Georgia with U.S. Congressman Michael Turner (R-OH), Chair of the U.S. House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and a member of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee. During their visit, Senator Shaheen and Chair Turner met with Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Foreign Minister Ilia Darchiashvili and Defense Minister Irakli Chikovani to once again raise concerns about democratic backsliding following the passage of the foreign agents law and anti-Western rhetoric and communicate the United States’ commitment to its longstanding partnership with people of Georgia to achieve a Euro-Atlantic future, including by facilitating a free and fair election in October. Shaheen and Turner’s visit came shortly after U.S. action to pause bilateral assistance to Georgia following recent actions undertaken by the Georgian government. Before the trip, Shaheen and Risch issued a statement welcoming the action by the U.S. State Department to pause $95 million in assistance to the government of Georgia following passage of a foreign agents law. Shaheen first visited Georgia as an election observer with Senator Risch in 2012. She has visited the nation three times since. In the annual defense legislation, Shaheen secured a provision that would require the Secretary of Defense to review security cooperation activities with Georgia in light of its new foreign agents law, a part of Shaheen’s and Risch’s bipartisan Georgian People’s Act. Prior to the vote in the Georgian Parliament, the Senators sent a bipartisan letter to the Prime Minister of Georgia urging the government to reconsider the bill. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-joins-epa-in-announcing-nearly-35-million-for-water-infrastructure-in-new-hampshire,NH Delegation Joins EPA in Announcing Nearly $35 Million for Water Infrastructure in New Hampshire,2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today the New Hampshire delegation joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in announcing $35 million for New Hampshire in new funding under the bipartisan infrastructure law to upgrade water infrastructure and keep communities safe. “Our drinking water and waste water systems in New Hampshire require investment and modernization to serve the needs of Granite Staters. That is why I fought to pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to deliver these federal resources to New Hampshire,” said U.S. Representative Chris Pappas. “I’ll keep fighting to ensure this law benefits Granite Staters by delivering clean drinking water, protecting our environment, and helping our communities and economy grow for the future.” ""The health and vitality of Granite State communities depend on clean water,” said U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “As a lead negotiator of the water provisions of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I'm thrilled to see this funding headed to New Hampshire to strengthen our wastewater infrastructure, address forever chemicals and keep our lakes and rivers clean."" “Every Granite Stater deserves safe, clean drinking water, and this new $34 million in funding for New Hampshire through the bipartisan infrastructure law will help make that possible for more families,” said U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan. “I helped negotiate and pass into law this historic infrastructure package to help deliver results for our communities, and I am pleased to see these continued investments flowing to New Hampshire to upgrade our water systems and protect public health.” “Safe, clean water is essential to the health and well-being of our communities, our economy, and our way of life,” said U.S. Representative Annie Kuster. “With these resources made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, New Hampshire will be able to make critical improvements to our state’s water infrastructure, protect our freshwater ecosystems, and ensure more families and businesses have access to clean drinking water.” “Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity. When our water infrastructure fails, it threatens people’s health, peace of mind, and the environment,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s historic investment in water, EPA is working with states and local partners to upgrade infrastructure and address local challenges—from lead in drinking water, to PFAS, to water main breaks, to sewer overflows and climate resilience. Together, we are creating good-paying jobs while ensuring that all people can rely on clean and safe water.” “Clean, reliable water is at the heart of every thriving community. Yet too many communities—especially those overburdened by pollution or left behind by past investments—face challenges accessing the resources they need to upgrade water infrastructure,"" said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. ""Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, we are delivering transformative funding to support local solutions to water issues, from fixing aging infrastructure to addressing emerging contaminants like PFAS. These investments don’t just protect public health and reduce pollution in waterways; they also create good-paying jobs and help communities become more resilient for the future.” These bipartisan infrastructure law funds will flow through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF), a long-standing federal-state water investment partnership. This multibillion-dollar investment will fund state-run, low-interest loan programs that address key challenges in financing water infrastructure. Today’s announcement includes allotments for bipartisan infrastructure law Clean Water General Supplemental funds for New Hampshire ($24,867,000), Emerging Contaminant funds ($2,146,000), and $7,640,000 under the Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant Fund.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-introduces-multi-state-worker-tax-fairness-act,Pappas Introduces Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act,2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week, Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01), Jim Himes (CT-04), and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) introduced the Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act. This bill establishes a uniform standard for taxing income based on physical presence in a state. In doing so, the bill prohibits a state from taxing a nonresident’s income earned when the individual was not physically in that state. “Every dollar hard-working Granite Staters can keep in their pocket matters, and workers must be protected from unfair, out-of-state taxes,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “The Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act would protect individuals who telework for a company in a state different from the one they reside in from over-taxation. I will continue to fight for tax fairness for all.” “Despite a pandemic-driven surge in telework, conflicting state tax rules still burden employees and discourage working from home,” said Congressman Jim Himes. “There is no good reason why residents of Connecticut who work from home offices in Connecticut should be paying taxes to any other state. It is time to modernize our laws to support an evolving workforce and protect Americans from unfair over-taxation.” “The Multi-State Worker Tax Fairness Act is essential for cutting taxes and ensuring people in New Jersey keep more of their hard-earned dollars where they belong — in their own pockets,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer. “By clarifying that they should only pay taxes to the state where they live and work, we’re not just protecting their financial well-being — we’re ensuring they aren’t double taxed by a state they don’t even set foot in.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-recognizes-matthew-gregg-of-nashua-as-octobers-granite-stater-of-the-month,Senator Hassan Recognizes Matthew Gregg of Nashua as October’s Granite Stater of the Month,2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan recognized Matthew “Matty” Gregg of Nashua as October’s Granite Stater of the Month. Earlier this month, Matty ran the length of New Hampshire to raise awareness about hunger in our state. Matty was motivated by his desire to draw attention to the thousands of Granite Staters who experience food insecurity. He wanted to inspire others to help those in need, and to encourage state government leaders to evaluate what more they could do to address hunger. Throughout the run, he highlighted organizations that are working to combat hunger in New Hampshire, including NH Hunger Solutions, White Mountains Community College, and the Manchester Food Collaborative. Matty is also focused on ending the stigma that can sometimes be associated with seeking help, whether it’s receiving free lunch at school or visiting a food bank. The run through New Hampshire was 230 miles long and took 11 days. Matty was cheered on by students from local schools at his stops up and down the state – in his hometown of Nashua, 100 students from Mt. Pleasant Elementary came to his stop and even ran with him for a few minutes. He says that the support of his family – including from his wife Alicia and his children Noah, Ethan, and Emma – makes it easier to endure the grueling distances. Matty’s dedication to ending hunger in our state is a true example of the New Hampshire spirit of taking action to address issues affecting our communities. Senator Hassan launched the “Granite Stater of the Month” initiative in 2017 to recognize outstanding New Hampshire citizens who go above and beyond to help their neighbors and make their communities stronger. To nominate a New Hampshire citizen to be a “Granite Stater of the Month,” constituents can complete the nomination form here. To read Senator Hassan’s statement for the Congressional Record, see below. I am honored to recognize Matthew “Matty” Gregg of Nashua as October’s Granite Stater of the Month. Matty ran the entire length of New Hampshire earlier this month – 230 miles – to raise awareness about hunger in our state. Matty’s run was motivated by his desire to draw attention to the thousands of Granite Staters who experience food insecurity, to inspire others to help those in need, and to encourage state government leaders to evaluate what more they could do to address hunger. He raised funds for NH Hunger Solutions, which connects Granite State families with resources, and also highlighted additional organizations that address food insecurity. For instance, Matty spotlighted White Mountains Community College, which allows all students to eat for free, and the Manchester Food Collaborative, which focuses on expanding access to healthy food for everyone in Manchester while reducing food waste. Matty is also focused on ending the stigma that can sometimes be associated with seeking help, whether it’s receiving free lunch at school or visiting a food bank. Matty’s 230-mile New Hampshire run took eight days, and he made 11 stops. He was cheered on by students from local schools at his stops up and down the state – in his hometown of Nashua, 100 students from Mt. Pleasant Elementary came to his stop and even ran with him for a few minutes. Matty’s run for hunger was not the first time that he has combined his love of running with his passion for making a difference. In 2018, he ran across America for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, running more than 5,245 miles and raising thousands of dollars. According to Matty, these extreme runs act like “lightning rods” to draw attention to a cause, and over the past decade, he has raised over $600,000 for different charities. He says that the support of his family – including from his wife Alicia and his children Noah, Ethan, and Emma – makes it easier to endure the grueling distances. Matty’s dedication to ending hunger in our state is a true example of the New Hampshire spirit of taking action to address issues affecting our communities. His creativity and willingness to – literally – go the extra mile to help more people get the food that they need is why I am proud to name him Granite Stater of the Month. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-boyle-lead-bicameral-letter-urging-us-department-of-education-to-support-borrowers-while-save-student-debt-plan-undergoes-litigation,"Shaheen, Boyle Lead Bicameral Letter Urging U.S. Department of Education to Support Borrowers While SAVE Student Debt Plan Undergoes Litigation",2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and U.S. Congressman Brendan Boyle (PA-02) are leading a group of 65 lawmakers in a bicameral letter urging the U.S. Department of Education to take further steps to support borrowers affected by ongoing litigation over President Joe Biden’s Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan for student loan repayment and to be prepared with a plan for all possible judicial outcomes. In their letter to Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, the lawmakers note that borrowers in the process of pursuing Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) have been particularly impacted by disruptions to their ability to complete the necessary payments to qualify for loan forgiveness. The lawmakers wrote, in part: “Eight million SAVE Plan participants are facing uncertainty after the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals halted implementation of the SAVE Plan. While we recognize the Department of Education’s efforts to avoid penalizing borrowers by putting their accounts into forbearance, we remain concerned about the numerous challenges borrowers continue to face.” The lawmakers continued: “In particular, for those borrowers in the process of pursuing Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), the current period of forbearance and accompanying disruptions in loan servicing create uncertainty for the status of their loan forgiveness eligibility and financial future. […] Unfortunately, our constituents report hearing conflicting information from servicers about whether any income-driven repayment plan applications are being accepted and processed. As a result, these borrowers are locked out of making progress toward the qualifying 120 monthly payments for PSLF eligibility even as they continue to serve our communities.” They concluded: “For these and other borrowers currently enrolled in the SAVE plan, we remain concerned about the importance of ensuring that all borrowers have adequate support and information to successfully navigate student loan repayment as litigation continues. The Department must also ensure that it has sufficient plans in place to facilitate a successful and immediate transition for affected borrowers should the final judicial ruling ultimately prevent implementation of the SAVE plan. The Department’s plans should include preparing the necessary guidance for borrowers, adjusting contracts and issuing new regulations as needed. Given the instability created by the court’s ruling and the resulting widespread impact on borrowers, it is clearly in the public’s interest for the Department to move quickly as possible to be prepared for any potential judicial outcome.” The letter is co-signed by 20 U.S. Senators and 45 U.S. Representatives. The full text of the letter can be found here. Senator Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to help students manage their debt and to make college more affordable, championing legislation to increase access to higher education for Granite Staters. Earlier this year, Shaheen reintroduced the bipartisan Student Protection and Success Act to address the mounting student debt crisis by increasing higher education institutions’ accountability for their students’ ability to repay their loans and requiring institutions to have a vested interest in the success of their students. She has previously introduced the Simplifying Access to Student Loan Information Act, which calls for the development of a central online portal to allow students to review all their public and private student loans, as well as repayment options, in one place. Shaheen has also previously introduced other legislation to aid undergraduate borrowers and successfully ushered her legislation with Senators Baldwin (D-WI), Braun (R-IN) and Fischer (R-NE) to combat student debt relief scams through Congress. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Shaheen led and supported numerous efforts to provide necessary relief to students and their families to afford college and other higher education opportunities. Shaheen is also helping to reintroduce legislation that would double the Pell Grant award and make college more affordable. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-meets-with-drug-enforcement-administration-leaders-in-nh,Senator Hassan Meets with Drug Enforcement Administration Leaders in NH,2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BEDFORD – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan visited the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)’s New Hampshire office on Tuesday, where officials briefed her on current drug trends across the state and the agency’s strategic partnerships with local communities. During her visit, Senator Hassan toured the facility’s temporary on-site laboratory, which supports the DEA Manchester District Office’s response to local drug threats. She was also briefed on plans for a new regional DEA laboratory in Londonderry that will serve the New England region when it opens in 2026, accelerating the testing of drug evidence and strengthening investigations across the region. “The dedicated law enforcement agents at DEA are working tirelessly to keep deadly drugs like fentanyl out of New Hampshire communities,” said Senator Hassan. “I will continue to work to ensure that our law enforcement partners have the resources and tools that they need to protect our neighborhoods and combat drug trafficking across the Granite State and the country.” Senator Hassan has led efforts to stop drug trafficking and support communities devastated by the fentanyl crisis. In September, Senator Hassan reintroduced bipartisan legislation to curb the spread of rapidly evolving synthetic drugs by allowing the DEA to restrict and penalize substances that have a substantially similar chemical structure and effect on the body as fentanyl. In April, Senator Hassan and colleagues’ FEND Off Fentanyl Act, which targets the illicit fentanyl supply chain and will impose sanctions on fentanyl traffickers, was signed into law. Senator Hassan also developed and help pass into law the END FENTANYL Act, which helps Customs and Border Protection crack down on fentanyl trafficking at the border. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/shaheen-hassan-join-ribbon-cutting-for-affordable-housing-development-made-possible-by-the-american-rescue-plan,"Shaheen, Hassan Join Ribbon Cutting for Affordable Housing Development Made Possible by the American Rescue Plan",2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"(Concord, NH) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) delivered remarks to community members and local advocates at the ribbon cutting ceremony for CATCH Neighborhood Housing’s Davis Ridge development, which will offer 48 units of affordable housing in Concord. The project was funded in part by Invest NH, which is supported by funding Senators Shaheen and Hassan helped secure in the American Rescue Plan. Photos from today’s event can be found here. “Far too many Granite Staters are struggling with affordable housing and anything we can do to build more housing units to help lower costs for the workforce is worth doing, which is why developments like Davis Ridge are critical to addressing this challenge,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to have helped secure the federal funds needed to support this project, and I’ll continue fighting in Congress to ensure New Hampshire has the resources we need to tackle the housing crisis and bring costs down for Granite Staters.” “The housing crisis affects every corner of our state, as families struggle to afford their rent and businesses are unable to grow because workers can’t find housing that they can afford,” said Senator Hassan. “Developments like the Davis Ridge Apartments demonstrate the role that federal funding can play in addressing the housing shortage in New Hampshire. I will keep working to expand federal funding to build more housing here in NH, help more Granite State individuals and families afford their rent, and strengthen our economy.” The Davis Ridge development was built with the support of Invest NH, a $100 million program to accelerate affordable workforce housing construction funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) secured by Shaheen and Hassan. The project is also supported by federal funding from the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), which Shaheen and Hassan are working to expand. Shaheen is a leader in the Senate on efforts to tackle the housing affordability crisis, including by helping to ensure Granite Staters have the resources they need to thrive. In May, Shaheen and Hassan celebrated more than $30 million in federal grants for New Hampshire to build more affordable housing across the Granite State. As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee and Chair of the Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations Subcommittee, Shaheen worked to include key provisions from her Strategy and Investment in Rural Housing Preservation Act in the FY24 Agriculture and Related Agencies Appropriations Act which was signed into law in March. Shaheen’s standalone legislation would ensure that hundreds of thousands of low-income tenants in rural areas are able to maintain access to safe and affordable housing. Another Shaheen-led bipartisan bill to increase access to rural housing was signed into law the same day. Together, the two bills will bolster existing rural housing options, make new construction easier and protect renters across the Granite State. Shaheen also helped introduced the Fighting Homelessness Through Services and Housing Act to help local governments reduce homelessness as well as a bicameral bill that would protect the rights of residents of manufactured housing communities. Shaheen secured over $22 million in Congressionally Directed Spending in the FY24 government funding bills to address New Hampshire’s housing, transportation and urban development needs. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-hassan-join-ribbon-cutting-for-affordable-housing-development-made-possible-by-the-american-rescue-plan,"Shaheen, Hassan Join Ribbon Cutting for Affordable Housing Development Made Possible by the American Rescue Plan",2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Concord, NH) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) delivered remarks to community members and local advocates at the ribbon cutting ceremony for CATCH Neighborhood Housing’s Davis Ridge development, which will offer 48 units of affordable housing in Concord. The project was funded in part by Invest NH, which is supported by funding Senators Shaheen and Hassan helped secure in the American Rescue Plan. Photos from today’s event can be found here. “Far too many Granite Staters are struggling with affordable housing and anything we can do to build more housing units to help lower costs for the workforce is worth doing, which is why developments like Davis Ridge are critical to addressing this challenge,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to have helped secure the federal funds needed to support this project, and I’ll continue fighting in Congress to ensure New Hampshire has the resources we need to tackle the housing crisis and bring costs down for Granite Staters.” “The housing crisis affects every corner of our state, as families struggle to afford their rent and businesses are unable to grow because workers can’t find housing that they can afford,” said Senator Hassan. “Developments like the Davis Ridge Apartments demonstrate the role that federal funding can play in addressing the housing shortage in New Hampshire. I will keep working to expand federal funding to build more housing here in NH, help more Granite State individuals and families afford their rent, and strengthen our economy.” The Davis Ridge development was built with the support of Invest NH — a $100 million program to accelerate affordable workforce housing construction funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) secured by Shaheen and Hassan. The project is also supported by federal funding from the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), which Shaheen and Hassan are working to expand. Shaheen is a leader in the Senate on efforts to tackle the housing affordability crisis, including by helping to ensure Granite Staters have the resources they need to thrive. In May, Shaheen and Hassan celebrated more than $30 million in federal grants for New Hampshire to build more affordable housing across the Granite State. As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee and Chair of the Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations Subcommittee, Shaheen worked to include key provisions from her Strategy and Investment in Rural Housing Preservation Act in the FY24 Agriculture and Related Agencies Appropriations Act which was signed into law in March. Shaheen’s standalone legislation would ensure that hundreds of thousands of low-income tenants in rural areas are able to maintain access to safe and affordable housing. Another Shaheen-led bipartisan bill to increase access to rural housing was signed into law the same day. Together, the two bills will bolster existing rural housing options, make new construction easier and protect renters across the Granite State. Shaheen also helped introduced the Fighting Homelessness Through Services and Housing Act to help local governments reduce homelessness as well as a bicameral bill that would protect the rights of residents of manufactured housing communities. Shaheen secured over $22 million in Congressionally Directed Spending in the FY24 government funding bills to address New Hampshire’s housing, transportation and urban development needs. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-law-enforcement-operations-at-the-southern-border,Pappas Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Law Enforcement Operations at the Southern Border,2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), and Susie Lee (NV-03)introduced the bipartisan Advanced Border Coordination Act to strengthen law enforcement operations and collaboration at the southern border. Building off the successes of state-run fusion centers, this legislation would establish Joint Operation Centers along the southern border to serve as centralized operating hubs tasked with coordinating border operations, information sharing, and workforce training. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has periodically established joint operations hubs to help multiple law enforcement agencies work together to strengthen border security and crack down on transnational criminal activity. “Strengthening border operations coordination will bolster efforts to crack down on drug trafficking, help enforce our immigration laws, and keep our communities safe. I’m helping introduce the Advanced Border Coordination Act, which will do just that,” said Congressman Pappas. “This bipartisan bill would establish joint centers along the southern border to serve as centralized hubs to coordinate border operations between Border Patrol personnel and federal, state, and local law enforcement. I’ll keep fighting to support the work of our law enforcement, provide them the resources they need, and address the root causes of the issues at the southern border.” The Advanced Border Coordination Act would help address these national security concerns by: Directing DHS to establish at least two joint operations centers along the southern border. These hubs would help law enforcement from multiple Federal, State, local and Tribal agencies coordinate their efforts and better work together. Requiring these centralized hubs to serve as resources to improve field operations and intelligence sharing, help detect and deter criminal activity like drug and human trafficking, and support workforce development and training coordination between participating agencies. Directing the DHS Secretary to issue an annual report to Congress on the centers’ operational activities and recommendations for coordinated federal actions at the southern border. Participating agencies would include DHS, the Department of Defense, the Department of Justice, other federal agencies as the DHS Secretary determines appropriate, and state, local, and tribal agencies that voluntarily choose to participate. The bill has been endorsed by the National Border Patrol Council, National Immigration Forum, the Texas Border Coalition, and the Major Cities Chiefs Association. A companion bill was previously introduced in the Senate by Senators Cortez-Masto (D-NV) and Blackburn (R-TN). Background: Pappas has been an ardent supporter of bipartisan efforts to address America’s northern and southern border and has called on House Republican leadership to stop blocking the consideration of legislation to restore order and fix the U.S.’s immigration system that has been broken for decades. Pappas is a cosponsor of the Dignity Act, which is comprehensive, bipartisan legislation to address security and infrastructure challenges at the border, hire additional border patrol personnel, establish new pathways for asylum seekers, and create a path to citizenship. In March, Pappas helped launch a new border security task force to focus on the need for comprehensive, bipartisan solutions to address the border and fix the broken immigration system. Later that month, Pappas helped to pass the fiscal year 2024 government funding package, which included a $3.2 billion increase in funding for Customs and Border Patrol (CPB), providing for a record 22,000 agents, including 150 counter-fentanyl officers, and needed investments in fentanyl detection equipment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/shaheen-pappas-acting-secretary-of-labor-su-visit-child-care-facility-host-roundtable-on-child-care-and-workforce-challenges,"Shaheen, Pappas, Acting Secretary of Labor Su Visit Child Care Facility, Host Roundtable on Child Care and Workforce Challenges",2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, visited A Place to Grow and hosted a roundtable discussion at the facility to discuss the first U.S. Department of Labor approved apprenticeship program for early childhood education operations managers and a new report emphasizing the importance of care workers. Photos from the event can be found here. “The cost of child care remains among the most pressing issues that families are facing. That’s why providing every federal resource available to families and child care providers in New Hampshire is critical,” said Congressman Pappas. “I’ll keep fighting to cap the amount of money that families pay for child care, strengthen our child care and education workforce, and expand the Child Tax Credit, a middle-class tax cut that helps families keep more of their hard-earned money in their pockets. I was grateful to join Acting Secretary Su, Senator Shaheen, and A Place To Grow owner Jennifer Legere today to hear from folks on the ground doing this work.” “I’ve met with child care providers across New Hampshire and all of them have underscored the challenges they face with workforce recruitment and retention,” said Senator Shaheen. “Without affordable child care options, families, the workforce and the overall economic development of our communities suffer. That’s why I was so pleased to join Acting Secretary Su in visiting A Place to Grow where their innovative, new Registered Apprenticeship program for early childhood education administrators provides the training and pathways needed to get workers into the child care industry and keep them there.” “Paid care work is critical economic infrastructure in this country, because safe and dependable care allows working parents and other caregivers to get and keep their jobs while also ensuring safe, quality working conditions for workers who take care of our loved ones,” said Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su. “The Biden-Harris administration is making once-in-a-generation investments creating good jobs and know that without the care economy and all of the talented care workers we have in this country, our economy suffers. I am glad to be in New Hampshire today to highlight this forward-looking program.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-announces-nearly-35-million-for-water-infrastructure-in-new-hampshire-through-investing-in-america-agenda,Biden-Harris Administration announces nearly $35 million for water infrastructure in New Hampshire through Investing in America agenda,2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BOSTON (Oct. 23, 2024) –Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $3.6 billion in new funding under the Biden-Harris Administration's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to upgrade water infrastructure and keep communities safe. Combined with $2.6 billion announced earlier this month, this $6.2 billion in investments for Fiscal Year 2025 will help communities across the country upgrade water infrastructure that is essential to safely managing wastewater, protecting local freshwater resources, and delivering safe drinking water to homes, schools, and businesses. These Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds will flow through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF), a long-standing federal-state water investment partnership. This multibillion-dollar investment will fund state-run, low-interest loan programs that address key challenges in financing water infrastructure. Today's announcement includes allotments for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Clean Water General Supplemental funds for New Hampshire ($24,867,000), Emerging Contaminant funds ($2,146,000), and $7,640,000 under the Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant Fund. This funding is part of a five-year, $50 billion investment in water infrastructure through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – the largest investment in water infrastructure in American history. To ensure investments reach communities that need them the most, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law mandates that a majority of the funding announced today must be provided to disadvantaged communities in the form of grants or loans that do not have to be repaid. ""Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity. When our water infrastructure fails, it threatens people's health, peace of mind, and the environment,"" said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. ""With the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law's historic investment in water, EPA is working with states and local partners to upgrade infrastructure and address local challenges—from lead in drinking water, to PFAS, to water main breaks, to sewer overflows and climate resilience. Together, we are creating good-paying jobs while ensuring that all people can rely on clean and safe water."" ""Clean, reliable water is at the heart of every thriving community. Yet too many communities—especially those overburdened by pollution or left behind by past investments—face challenges accessing the resources they need to upgrade water infrastructure,"" said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. ""Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, we are delivering transformative funding to support local solutions to water issues, from fixing aging infrastructure to addressing emerging contaminants like PFAS. These investments don't just protect public health and reduce pollution in waterways; they also create good-paying jobs and help communities become more resilient for the future."" ""The health and vitality of Granite State communities depend on clean water,"" said U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. ""As a lead negotiator of the water provisions of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I'm thrilled to see this funding headed to New Hampshire to strengthen our wastewater infrastructure, address forever chemicals and keep our lakes and rivers clean."" ""Every Granite Stater deserves safe, clean drinking water, and this new $34 million in funding for New Hampshire through the bipartisan infrastructure law will help make that possible for more families,"" said U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan. ""I helped negotiate and pass into law this historic infrastructure package to help deliver results for our communities, and I am pleased to see these continued investments flowing to New Hampshire to upgrade our water systems and protect public health."" ""Safe, clean water is essential to the health and well-being of our communities, our economy, and our way of life,"" said U.S. Representative Annie Kuster. ""With these resources made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, New Hampshire will be able to make critical improvements to our state's water infrastructure, protect our freshwater ecosystems, and ensure more families and businesses have access to clean drinking water."" ""Our drinking water and waste water systems in New Hampshire require investment and modernization to serve the needs of Granite Staters. That is why I fought to pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to deliver these federal resources to New Hampshire,"" said U.S. Representative Chris Pappas. ""I'll keep fighting to ensure this law benefits Granite Staters by delivering clean drinking water, protecting our environment, and helping our communities and economy grow for the future."" EPA is changing the odds for communities that have faced barriers to planning and accessing federal funding through its Water Technical Assistance program, which helps disadvantaged communities identify water challenges, develop infrastructure upgrade plans, and apply for funding. Communities seeking Water Technical Assistance can request support by completing the WaterTA request form. These efforts also advance the Biden-Harris Administration's Justice40 Initiative, which sets the goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain Federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. To read stories about how unprecedented investments in water from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are transforming communities across the country, visit EPA's Investing in America's Water Infrastructure Storymap. To read more about additional projects, see EPA's recently released Quarterly Report on Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funded Clean Water and Drinking Water SRF projects. For more information, including the state-by-state allocation of 2025 funding and a breakdown of EPA SRF funding available under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, please visit the Clean Water State Revolving Fund website and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund website. Additionally, the SRF Public Portal allows users to access data from both the Drinking Water and Clean Water SRF programs through interactive reports, dashboards, and maps. The State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs have been the foundation of water infrastructure investments for more than 30 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America. SRF programs are critically important programs for investing in the nation's water infrastructure. They are designed to generate significant and sustainable water quality and public health benefits across the country. Their impact is amplified by the growth inherent in a revolving loan structure, in which payments of principal and interest on loans become available to address future needs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-hassan-kuster-join-president-biden-in-concord-to-celebrate-historic-work-to-lower-prescription-drug-costs-for-granite-staters,"Shaheen, Hassan, Kuster Join President Biden in Concord to Celebrate Historic Work to Lower Prescription Drug Costs for Granite Staters",2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Concord, NH) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), alongside U.S. Representative Annie Kuster (NH-02), joined President Joe Biden in Concord on the campus of New Hampshire Technical Institute to celebrate historic work by the Biden-Harris Administration to reduce the cost of prescription drug prices for Granite Staters, including action in the Inflation Reduction Act capping the cost of insulin to $35 for Medicare beneficiaries, capping annual out-of-pocket drug spending for Medicare enrollees and allowing the federal government to negotiate prices for drugs covered under Medicare Part B and Part D. As co-chair of the U.S. Senate Diabetes Caucus, Shaheen leads the bipartisan Improving Needed Safeguards for Users of Lifesaving Insulin Now (INSULIN) Act which would cap the cost of insulin at $35 for more Americans. Photos from today’s event can be found here. “I was thrilled to welcome President Biden back to New Hampshire today to discuss the Administration’s comprehensive, historic reforms that have already shown success in lowering the price of prescription drugs, including capping insulin at $35 a month for Medicare beneficiaries—a long-standing priority for me,” said Senator Shaheen. “In the wealthiest nation on Earth, no one should have to choose between putting food on the table or paying for the medication they need to survive. So, let’s continue to build on this progress by passing my bipartisan INSULIN Act to cap insulin costs for millions more Americans.” “It was great to welcome President Biden back to New Hampshire today to discuss efforts to lower costs for Americans,” said Senator Hassan. “Under the Biden-Harris Administration, we have taken on Big Pharma to start lowering prescription drug prices and put seniors first – and we won’t let up in our efforts to bring down health care costs for Granite Staters and all Americans.” “For too long, health care and prescription drugs costs have been too high for too many Americans. That’s exactly why the Biden-Harris Administration made lowering prescription drug costs and expanding access to health care a cornerstone of its agenda,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “From capping the cost of insulin at $35 per month to allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices directly with pharmaceutical companies, they have delivered. Leadership matters and the leadership of President Biden and Vice President Harris is making a real difference in the lives of hardworking Granite Staters.” Shaheen and the full New Hampshire Congressional delegation have supported efforts to combat rising drug prices and prevent drug manufacturers from abusing the drug approval process to limit market competition, including by supporting key provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act. Earlier today, the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) released a report announcing that nearly 1.5 million Medicare enrollees, and more that 5,000 Granite Staters, benefited from the new out-of-pocket cap, saving nearly $1 billion on prescription drugs in just the first half of 2024—with even bigger savings expected for the remainder of this year. For the first time, the Inflation Reduction Act also provides Medicare the ability to directly negotiate the prices of certain high-cost drugs with pharmaceutical manufacturers. According to recent estimates, taxpayers will save an estimated $6 billion in prescription drug costs on newly negotiated drugs, and Medicare beneficiaries alone will save an estimated $1.5 billion in annual out-of-pocket costs. More than 30,000 Granite Staters take prescription drugs set for negotiation in 2026. Shaheen also pushed for the inclusion of a provision in the Inflation Reduction Act that capped out-of-pocket costs for Medicare patients with diabetes by ensuring that Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage health plans limit copays or coinsurance to no more than $35 per month, 25% of list price, or 25% of the negotiated price. Across New Hampshire, Medicare beneficiaries needing insulin would have saved $3.5 million, an average of $536 per enrollee, had the $35 cap been in effect in 2020. As co-chair of the bipartisan U.S. Senate Diabetes Caucus, Shaheen has consistently pressed to hold insulin manufacturers, insurers and pharmacy benefit managers accountable for the skyrocketing cost of life-saving insulin. Last year, Shaheen and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) introduced the INSULIN Act, which would comprehensively address the skyrocketing costs of insulin and remove barriers to care making it more accessible to millions of Americans. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/congressional-democrats-file-amicus-brief-urging-ninth-circuit-court-to-affirm-that-emtala-requires-hospitals-to-provide-emergency-stabilizing-care-including-abortion-care-preempts-idahos-draconian-abortion-ban,"Congressional Democrats File Amicus Brief Urging Ninth Circuit Court to Affirm that EMTALA Requires Hospitals to Provide Emergency Stabilizing Care Including Abortion Care, Preempts Idaho’s Draconian Abortion Ban",2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"After the Supreme Court dismissed the case, returning it to the Ninth Circuit Court, 259 Members of Congress ask the Ninth Circuit to affirm district court decision that under EMTALA, hospitals participating in Medicare must provide emergency stabilizing treatment to patients, including abortion care when necessary In amicus brief—led by Sens. Schumer, Murray, Wyden, Durbin and Reps. Jeffries, Clark, Pallone, Neal, Nadler, DeGette, and Lee—lawmakers argue that congressional intent, text, and history of EMTALA make clear that covered hospitals must provide abortion care when it is the “necessary stabilizing treatment” for a patient’s “emergency medical condition,” and that EMTALA clearly preempts conflicting state law Members: “In this case, respecting the supremacy of federal law is about more than just protecting our system of government; it is about protecting people’s lives.” Washington, D.C. — Today, 259 Members of Congress—led by U.S. Senators Schumer, Murray, Wyden, and Durbin, and Representatives Jeffries, Clark, Pallone, Neal, Nadler, DeGette, and Lee—submitted an amicus brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in Moyle v. United States and Idaho v. United States, two consolidated cases concerning the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) under consideration by the en banc Ninth Circuit. EMTALA is a federal law that requires hospitals that receive Medicare funding to provide necessary “stabilizing treatment” to patients experiencing medical emergencies, which can include abortion care. After the Dobbs decision in 2022, a draconian anti-abortion law in Idaho went into effect that makes it a felony for a doctor to terminate a patient’s pregnancy unless it is “necessary” to prevent the patient’s death. The United States sued the State of Idaho, arguing that the state’s law is preempted by EMTALA in those circumstances in which abortion may not be necessary to prevent imminent death, but still constitutes the necessary stabilizing treatment for a patient’s emergency medical condition. The district court agreed; it held that in those limited, but critically important situations, EMTALA requires Medicare-participating hospitals to provide abortion as an emergency medical treatment. Idaho Republicans appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court, which lifted the injunction and took the case in January—in March, 258 Members filed an amicus brief, asking the Supreme Court to affirm the district court decision. In June, the Supreme Court dismissed the case but without a ruling on the merits, sending the case back to the Ninth Circuit Court and reinstating the district court’s injunction. In their brief in support of the Justice Department, the lawmakers ask the Ninth Circuit to uphold the district court’s ruling. They argue that the congressional intent, text, and history of EMTALA make clear that covered hospitals must provide abortion care when it is the necessary stabilizing treatment for a patient’s emergency medical condition, and that EMTALA preempts Idaho’s abortion ban in emergency situations that present a serious threat to a patient’s health. “[T]he 99th Congress passed EMTALA to ensure that every person who visits a Medicare-funded hospital with an ‘emergency medical condition’ is offered stabilizing treatment,” the Members write in their amicus brief. “Congress chose broad language for that mandate, requiring hospitals that participate in the Medicare program to provide ‘such treatment as may be required to stabilize the medical condition.’… That text—untouched by Congress for the past three decades—makes clear that in situations in which a doctor determines that abortion constitutes the ‘[n]ecessary stabilizing treatment’ for a pregnant patient, federal law requires the hospital to offer it. Yet Idaho has made providing that care a felony, in direct contravention of EMTALA’s mandate.” Importantly, the Members note that in this case, “respecting the supremacy of federal law is about more than just protecting our system of government; it is about protecting people’s lives. If this Court allows Idaho’s near-total abortion ban to supersede federal law, pregnant patients in Idaho will continue to be denied appropriate medical treatment, placing them at heightened risk for medical complications and severe adverse health outcomes… And health care providers, unwilling to let Idaho’s law override their medical judgment regarding their patients’ best interests, will continue their exile from Idaho, creating maternity-care ‘deserts’ all over the state.” The Members point to numerous reports of OB/GYNs leaving Idaho en masse since the state’s abortion ban went into effect—Idaho has since lost fifty-five percent of its maternal-fetal medicine specialists and three rural hospitals have shut down maternity services altogether. “These are not hypothetical scenarios. Because Idaho’s abortion ban contains no clear exceptions for the “emergency medical conditions” covered by EMTALA, it forces physicians to wait until their patients are on the verge of death before providing abortion care. The result in other states with similar laws has been ‘significant maternal morbidity,’” write the Members, pointing to harrowing reports of pregnant women with severe health complications being denied necessary abortion care, including an Idaho woman who was flown to Utah for an abortion while hemorrhaging, leaking amniotic fluid, and terrified that she would not survive to care for her two other children. “Federal law does not allow Idaho to endanger the lives of its residents in this way.” In their brief, the Members also clarify that the references to “unborn child” in EMTALA were intended to expand hospitals’ obligations with respect to providing stabilizing treatment—not contract them or take away the obligation to provide abortion care in certain circumstances. The Members’ brief also counters an argument from Idaho and its amici that the Supremacy Clause does not apply in this case because EMTALA was passed using Spending Clause authority, and therefore acts only as a condition on Medicare funding. The Members make clear that all laws passed by Congress are entitled to preemption—regardless of their source of constitutional authority—and states cannot pass laws that make it impossible for private parties to accept federal funding, inhibiting the purpose of the federal law. “EMTALA requires abortion when necessary to stabilize a patient with an emergency medical condition, Idaho’s near-total abortion ban is preempted to the extent that it prevents doctors from providing that care,” the Members write. “This Court should reject Appellants’ novel theory that EMTALA is not entitled to preemptive effect because it was enacted pursuant to Congress’s spending power. Under the Supremacy Clause, all ‘the constitutional laws enacted by congress,’ constitute ‘the supreme Law of the Land,’. As the Supreme Court has repeatedly held, the principle of federal supremacy applies to laws passed pursuant to Congress’s spending authority no less than it does to laws effectuating other enumerated powers.” “In sum, EMTALA plainly requires hospitals that participate in the Medicare program to provide abortion care when, in a doctor’s medical judgment, it constitutes the ‘[n]ecessary stabilizing treatment’ for a patient’s ‘emergency medical condition.’” The lawmakers conclude by asking the Ninth Circuit to affirm the district court’s decision that EMTALA requires Medicare-participating hospitals to provide abortion care when it is necessary as emergency medical treatment. In the Senate, the amicus brief was signed by 48 U.S. Senators: Schumer, Murray, Wyden, Durbin, Baldwin, Bennet, Blumenthal, Booker, Brown, Butler, Cantwell, Cardin, Carper, Casey Jr., Coons, Cortez Masto, Duckworth, Gillibrand, Hassan, Heinrich, Helmy, Hickenlooper, Hirono, Kaine, Kelly, King Jr., Klobuchar, Luján, Markey, Merkley, Murphy, Padilla, Peters, Reed, Rosen, Sanders, Schatz, Shaheen, Sinema, Smith, Stabenow, Tester, Van Hollen, Warner, Warnock, Warren, Welch, Whitehouse. In the House, the brief was signed by 211 U.S. Representatives. The lawmakers’ amicus brief to the Supreme Court can be read in full HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/shaheen-hassan-kuster-join-president-biden-in-concord-to-celebrate-historic-work-to-lower-prescription-drug-costs-for-granite-staters,"Shaheen, Hassan, Kuster Join President Biden in Concord to Celebrate Historic Work to Lower Prescription Drug Costs for Granite Staters",2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"(Concord, NH) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), alongside U.S. Representative Annie Kuster (NH-02), joined President Joe Biden in Concord on the campus of New Hampshire Technical Institute to celebrate historic work by the Biden-Harris Administration to reduce the cost of prescription drug prices for Granite Staters, including action in the Inflation Reduction Act capping the cost of insulin to $35 for Medicare beneficiaries, capping annual out-of-pocket drug spending for Medicare enrollees and allowing the federal government to negotiate prices for drugs covered under Medicare Part B and Part D. As co-chair of the U.S. Senate Diabetes Caucus, Shaheen leads the bipartisan Improving Needed Safeguards for Users of Lifesaving Insulin Now (INSULIN) Act which would cap the cost of insulin at $35 for more Americans. Photos from today’s event can be found here. “I was thrilled to welcome President Biden back to New Hampshire today to discuss the Administration’s comprehensive, historic reforms that have already shown success in lowering the price of prescription drugs, including capping insulin at $35 a month for Medicare beneficiaries—a long-standing priority for me,” said Senator Shaheen. “In the wealthiest nation on Earth, no one should have to choose between putting food on the table or paying for the medication they need to survive. So, let’s continue to build on this progress by passing my bipartisan INSULIN Act to cap insulin costs for millions more Americans.” “It was great to welcome President Biden back to New Hampshire today to discuss efforts to lower costs for Americans,” said Senator Hassan. “Under the Biden-Harris Administration, we have taken on Big Pharma to start lowering prescription drug prices and put seniors first – and we won’t let up in our efforts to bring down health care costs for Granite Staters and all Americans.” “For too long, health care and prescription drugs costs have been too high for too many Americans. That’s exactly why the Biden-Harris Administration made lowering prescription drug costs and expanding access to health care a cornerstone of its agenda,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “From capping the cost of insulin at $35 per month to allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices directly with pharmaceutical companies, they have delivered. Leadership matters and the leadership of President Biden and Vice President Harris is making a real difference in the lives of hardworking Granite Staters.” Shaheen and the full New Hampshire Congressional delegation have supported efforts to combat rising drug prices and prevent drug manufacturers from abusing the drug approval process to limit market competition, including by supporting key provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act. Earlier today, the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) released a report announcing that nearly 1.5 million Medicare enrollees, and more that 5,000 Granite Staters, benefited from the new out-of-pocket cap, saving nearly $1 billion on prescription drugs in just the first half of 2024—with even bigger savings expected for the remainder of this year. For the first time, the Inflation Reduction Act also provides Medicare the ability to directly negotiate the prices of certain high-cost drugs with pharmaceutical manufacturers. According to recent estimates, taxpayers will save an estimated $6 billion in prescription drug costs on newly negotiated drugs, and Medicare beneficiaries alone will save an estimated $1.5 billion in annual out-of-pocket costs. More than 30,000 Granite Staters take prescription drugs set for negotiation in 2026. Shaheen also pushed for the inclusion of a provision in the Inflation Reduction Act that capped out-of-pocket costs for Medicare patients with diabetes by ensuring that Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage health plans limit copays or coinsurance to no more than $35 per month, 25% of list price, or 25% of the negotiated price. Across New Hampshire, Medicare beneficiaries needing insulin would have saved $3.5 million, an average of $536 per enrollee, had the $35 cap been in effect in 2020. As co-chair of the bipartisan U.S. Senate Diabetes Caucus, Shaheen has consistently pressed to hold insulin manufacturers, insurers and pharmacy benefit managers accountable for the skyrocketing cost of life-saving insulin. Last year, Shaheen and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) introduced the INSULIN Act, which would comprehensively address the skyrocketing costs of insulin and remove barriers to care making it more accessible to millions of Americans. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/bipartisan-support-grows-for-shaheen-risch-legislation-that-would-hold-georgian-officials-accountable-for-corruption-human-rights-abuses-and-anti-democratic-efforts,"Bipartisan Support Grows for Shaheen, Risch Legislation That Would Hold Georgian Officials Accountable for Corruption, Human Rights Abuses and Anti-Democratic Efforts",2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) and Chair of the Europe and Regional Security Cooperation Subcommittee, and Jim Risch (R-ID), Ranking Member of SFRC, today announced that 10 additional Senators intend to cosponsor their bipartisan Georgian People’s Act. Shaheen and Risch’s bipartisan bill would hold Georgian government officials and individuals responsible for corruption, human rights abuses and efforts to advance the foreign influence law or facilitate its passage. U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Mitt Romney (R-UT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), John Cornyn (R-TX), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Chairman of the International Republican Institute (IRI), Angus King (I-ME), Todd Young (R-IN), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and George Helmy (D-NJ) have requested to join the Senators’ Georgian People’s Act when the Senate reconvenes in November, joining SFRC Chairman Ben Cardin (D-MD) and U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Chris Coons (D-DE) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) in supporting Shaheen and Risch’s bipartisan legislation. “I’m pleased that a number of my Senate colleagues recognize the urgency of the situation in Georgia and have agreed to cosponsor the Georgian People’s Act in the U.S. Senate,” said Senator Shaheen. “Together, we’re sending a strong message that there is robust bipartisan support for our legislation and our posture towards Georgia and support for the Georgian people’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations will remain unchanged no matter which party controls Washington.” “This bill sends a strong message from Congress that the U.S. is united behind the Georgian people as they pursue a future in the transatlantic community,” said Senator Risch. “We recognize the Georgian people’s desire for European integration and are committed to making U.S. policy that supports the opportunity for them achieve it.” “The Georgian government’s embrace of pro-Russian policies and away from a Euro-Atlantic future is concerning,” said Senator Tillis. “I am proud to co-sponsor this bill to hold the Georgian government officials accountable and reaffirm the U.S. support for the Georgian people.” “The Georgian government’s shift towards Russia’s authoritarian regime and away from its European partners is alarming,” said Senator Cornyn. “This legislation would hold Georgia’s corrupt leaders accountable and signal to the Georgian people that the U.S. stands with them in their pursuit of a Euro-Atlantic future.” “Russia’s use of corruption, propaganda and violence doesn’t just threaten Georgia’s future as a strong, independent nation—it puts the entire international order at risk of collapse,” said Senator Murphy. “As Putin and his cronies try to undermine Georgia’s democracy and impose a government that will do their bidding, this bipartisan legislation makes clear the United States stands firmly with the Georgian people who overwhelmingly support democracy and a future in Europe.” “While the Georgian people have demonstrated overwhelming support for a democratic future, their government has become increasingly under Russia’s influence—most recently passing a law to restrict civil society and free speech,” Senator Romney said. “Our legislation would hold Georgian government officials responsible for corruption and demonstrate the United States’ commitment to the Georgian people’s fight for democracy and rule of law.” “A free, secure, sovereign Georgia, aligned with the US and its allies is in the national interest, both of Georgia and the United States,” said Senator Sullivan. “Georgia’s apparent drift back into Russia’s orbit is bad for the stability of the region. No one understands this better than the Georgian people themselves. According to polling from the International Republican Institute, 90% of Georgians want their nation to be part of the Western, free World, not the Russian World.” “The United States stands with the Georgian people and their pursuit of a Euro-Atlantic future. The Georgian government’s recent efforts to align with Russia reject the desires of Georgians and pose a significant threat. Our bipartisan bill would hold Georgian government officials accountable for corruption and express our support for the transatlantic aspirations of the Georgian people,” said Senator Young. Specifics on the Georgian People’s Act can be found here. Earlier this summer, Shaheen led a bipartisan, bicameral Congressional delegation to Georgia with U.S. Congressman Michael Turner (R-OH), Chair of the U.S. House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and a member of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee. During their visit, Senator Shaheen and Chair Turner met with Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Foreign Minister Ilia Darchiashvili and Defense Minister Irakli Chikovani to once again raise concerns about democratic backsliding following the passage of the foreign agents law and anti-Western rhetoric and communicate the United States’ commitment to its longstanding partnership with people of Georgia to achieve a Euro-Atlantic future, including by facilitating a free and fair election in October. Shaheen and Turner’s visit came shortly after U.S. action to pause bilateral assistance to Georgia following recent actions undertaken by the Georgian government. Before the trip, Shaheen and Risch issued a statement welcoming the action by the U.S. State Department to pause $95 million in assistance to the government of Georgia following passage of a foreign agents law. Shaheen first visited Georgia as an election observer with Senator Risch in 2012. She has visited the nation three times since. In the annual defense legislation, Shaheen secured a provision that would require the Secretary of Defense to review security cooperation activities with Georgia in light of its new foreign agents law, a part of Shaheen’s and Risch’s bipartisan Georgian People’s Act. Prior to the vote in the Georgian Parliament, the Senators sent a bipartisan letter to the Prime Minister of Georgia urging the government to reconsider the bill. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-collins-call-on-navy-to-reconsider-civilian-workforce-classification-review-protect-employee-pay-and-benefits-at-portsmouth-naval-shipyard,"Shaheen, Collins Call on Navy to Reconsider Civilian Workforce Classification Review, Protect Employee Pay and Benefits at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard",2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee and Co-Chair of the U.S. Senate Navy Caucus, and Susan Collins (R-ME) sent a bipartisan letter to the U.S. Department of the Navy urging it to reconsider the Office of Civilian Human Resources’ (OCHR) decision to review and modify civilian workforce position classifications across four public shipyards, including Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. In their letter to Secretary Carlos Del Toro and Chief of Naval Operation Admiral Lisa Franchetti, the Senators note that the review could result in civilian employees losing pay and benefits as well as negatively impact efforts to eliminate submarine maintenance backlogs. The Senators wrote, in part: “Should OCHR’s review result in position description demotions and salary decreases for a significant population of technical professionals, it would cripple efforts to staff and support the needs of the Navy. We, therefore, ask for your support in protecting our shipyard employees by reconsidering OCHR’s directive and by engaging with OPM to find a position that both maintains the integrity of the Federal and Department of Navy Classification Programs while protecting the wages and benefits of our valued workforce.” They concluded: “Today’s security environment requires the United States to have a combat-credible undersea fleet to maintain a competitive edge over our adversaries. The overwhelming production capacity of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Russia’s steady production progress toward fifth generation submarines, and growing cooperation between these authoritarian regimes will create additional demands on the U.S. submarine force. Meanwhile, the U.S. submarine industrial base continues to face maintenance shortfalls at our four public shipyards that affect the Navy’s ability to get boats back into the fleet on time. Reducing these maintenance backlogs is contingent on a robust, well-trained shipyard workforce.” The full text of the letter can be found here. As a co-chair of the U.S. Senate Navy Caucus and a senior member of both the U.S. Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee and U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Shaheen is New Hampshire’s strongest advocate for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and Navy shipbuilding programs. In the Senate-passed Department of Defense Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025, Shaheen secured funding for the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP), including the funding needed to complete dry dock projects at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The bill also includes $795 million for the SIOP above the President’s Budget, which will help to increase submarine maintenance availability at Portsmouth and across the country. Shaheen has a long legacy of supporting investments to increase maintenance capacity at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Additionally, In the FY 2025 government funding bills, Shaheen and Collins worked to include a $9.5 million Congressionally Directed Spending add for a new parking structure at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard—which will contribute to quality of life for Shipyard’s workforce. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/buddycheck,Senators Hassan and Ernst Invite Veterans to Join VA’s Second Annual National Buddy Check Week,2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) are encouraging veterans to participate in the Department of Veterans Affairs’ second annual National Buddy Check Week, which starts today and goes through October 25th. The VA is hosting tomorrow the first-ever virtual Veteran Buddy Check Summit and is providing additional resources to educate veterans on how to conduct peer wellness checks. Senators Hassan and Ernst worked to pass into law in 2022 the legislation that institutes the yearly VA program to support veterans’ mental health, which is modeled after the American Legion’s “Buddy Check National Week of Calling” to connect veterans to other veterans in order to better ensure that they receive the support they need. “Too often, those who’ve served our country face invisible battles long after their time in uniform ends,” said Senator Hassan. “National Buddy Check Week offers an opportunity for veterans to reconnect, support one another, and remind each other that they’re not alone. I encourage all veterans to participate in this week’s events. Your outreach to a fellow veteran just might be the lifeline that they need.” “As a combat veteran, I know the transition from service to civilian life can be filled with mental health challenges,” said Senator Ernst. “I was proud to work alongside Senator Hassan to pass this bipartisan legislation which will provide veterans with the tools to support those closest to them. This week, I urge our veterans to connect or reconnect with their veteran friends – just to check in. It’s a simple measure that goes a long way to support the health and safety of those who have bravely served our nation.” All of the resources that participants need can be found on VA’s National Buddy Check Week website, including information on how to join the virtual Veteran Buddy Check Summit, the Buddy Check Week Pledge, a tool to help find buddies and connect with others, and peer wellness training. Senator Hassan has led bipartisan efforts to support service members, veterans, and their families. Last month, Senator Hassan hosted a conversation with veterans in Littleton focused on improving mental health resources and removing the barriers and stigma to getting that care, as well as how to better support Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) and peer support groups. Senator Hassan also helped create and fund the 988 suicide hotline, which has a specified veterans crisis line that can be accessed by dialing 988 then pressing 1, or texting 838255. In 2022, President Biden signed into law bipartisan legislation introduced by Senator Hassan to strengthen the Solid Start program, which contacts every veteran three times by phone in the first year after they leave active duty service to check in and help connect them to VA programs and benefits. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-murphy-van-hollen-kaine-issue-statement-expressing-concern-about-the-escalation-of-violence-in-lebanon,"Shaheen, Murphy, Van Hollen, Kaine Issue Statement Expressing Concern About the Escalation of Violence in Lebanon",2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Tim Kaine (D-VA), senior members of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following joint statement regarding the deteriorating situation in Lebanon: “Over the past few weeks, there has been a concerning escalation of violence in Lebanon, which has resulted in the deaths of hundreds, the displacement of over one million civilians and unacceptable attacks on United Nations peacekeepers. “There is no question that Israel has a right to defend itself from terrorism on its northern border and that Hezbollah is a terrorist organization whose actions have led to Lebanese, American and Israeli deaths. By preventing the formation of a functioning government, Hezbollah has exacerbated an economic crisis and perpetuated the suffering of everyday Lebanese citizens. We also assert firmly that Iran must be stopped from supplying Hezbollah with resources and weapons, which is essential to securing peace on the border and ensuring that Israelis in the north can return safely to their homes. “At the same time, the Israel Defense Forces have an obligation to conduct their operations in a way that limits civilian harm and does not impede humanitarian access. We also strongly condemn the attacks against United Nations peacekeepers who operate in Lebanon under UN Security Council resolutions 1701 and 2749. Peacekeepers must be allowed to fulfill their mission of ensuring peace along the Blue Line. “We must work towards de-escalation and implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 in Lebanon while also urging all parties involved to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and hostage release deal. We must do all we can to prevent further civilian casualties, dangerous destabilization and expansion of this conflict into a full-out war.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-pappas-acting-secretary-of-labor-su-visit-child-care-facility-host-roundtable-on-child-care-and-workforce-challenges,"Shaheen, Pappas, Acting Secretary of Labor Su Visit Child Care Facility, Host Roundtable on Child Care and Workforce Challenges",2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Brentwood, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and U.S. Representative Chris Pappas (NH-01), alongside Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, visited A Place to Grow and hosted a roundtable discussion at the facility to discuss the first U.S. Department of Labor approved apprenticeship program for early childhood education operations managers and a new report emphasizing the importance of care workers. In March of this year, Shaheen sent a letter to Acting Secretary Su advocating for the establishment of A Place to Grow’s Registered Apprenticeship program for early childhood education (ECE) administrators. Photos from the event can be found here. “I’ve met with child care providers across New Hampshire and all of them have underscored the challenges they face with workforce recruitment and retention,” said Senator Shaheen. “Without affordable child care options, families, the workforce and the overall economic development of our communities suffer. That’s why I was so pleased to join Acting Secretary Su in visiting A Place to Grow where their innovative, new Registered Apprenticeship program for early childhood education administrators provides the training and pathways needed to get workers into the child care industry and keep them there.” “The cost of child care remains among the most pressing issues that families are facing. That’s why providing every federal resource available to families and child care providers in New Hampshire is critical,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “I’ll keep fighting to cap the amount of money that families pay for child care, strengthen our child care and education workforce, and expand the Child Tax Credit, a middle-class tax cut that helps families keep more of their hard-earned money in their pockets. I was grateful to join Acting Secretary Su, Senator Shaheen, and A Place To Grow owner Jennifer Legere today to hear from folks on the ground doing this work.” “Paid care work is critical economic infrastructure in this country, because safe and dependable care allows working parents and other caregivers to get and keep their jobs while also ensuring safe, quality working conditions for workers who take care of our loved ones,” said Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su. “The Biden-Harris administration is making once-in-a-generation investments creating good jobs and know that without the care economy and all of the talented care workers we have in this country, our economy suffers. I am glad to be in New Hampshire today to highlight this forward-looking program.” Joining Shaheen and Su for the discussion were leaders and New Hampshire residents including: Nicole Heller, Senior Policy Analyst at the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute, MacKenzie Nicholson, Senior Director of New Hampshire MomsRising, Jen Legere, Owner and Founder of A Place to Grow and Kayte Kostinden, Director and Early Childhood Operations Apprentice at A Place to Grow Brentwood. Senator Shaheen has been a leader in advocating for more affordable and accessible child care, including by delivering more than $77 million to New Hampshire through the American Rescue Plan and other COVID relief laws to the Granite State. Since then, Shaheen has urged state and local officials to distribute those federal funds, especially in communities that lack access to child care. In August, Shaheen visited Colebrook Community Child Care Center to discuss challenges and solutions to the child care crisis in rural communities. Earlier this year, Shaheen introduced the Right Start Child Care and Education Act, which would make child care more affordable and accessible for working families by reforming the federal tax code. She also introduced the bipartisan Expanding Child Care for Military Families Act, portions of which have been included in the National Defense Authorization Act for 2025, which has been passed by the Senate Armed Services Committee. Additionally, she helped introduce the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Enhancement Act to permanently expand the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, which helps households offset their child care costs. In April, Shaheen convened a hearing as Chair of the U.S. Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee to hear testimony from expert witnesses on the child care industry’s broken business model and what Congress can do to support small business child care providers, employees and families. A recent U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Advocacy issue brief, in response to data challenges raised at the hearing, details the role of small businesses in the child care industry and fills data gaps in child care industry research. Earlier this Congress, Shaheen helped introduce the Child Care Stabilization Act, which would provide additional federal child care stabilization funding—which was provided in the American Rescue Plan—and ensure that child care providers can keep their doors open and continue serving children and families in every part of the country. Shaheen joined Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) to introduce the Child Care for Working Families Act, which would provide affordable child care for all working families, expand access to preschool programs and increase wages for early childhood workers. She also joined U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) in reintroducing the bipartisan Childcare Workforce and Facilities Act to address the national shortage of affordable, quality child care, especially in rural communities. In the government funding bill for fiscal year (FY) 2024, Senator Shaheen worked to include a $1 billion increase for early education, including a $725 million increase to $8.75 billion for Child Care and Development Block Grants to states and a $275 million increase to Head Start, funding the program at more than $12 billion for FY 2024. The law additionally includes $315 million for Preschool Development Grants. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-ricketts-tillis-durbin-congratulate-moldova-on-a-successful-referendum-election,"Shaheen, Ricketts, Tillis, Durbin Congratulate Moldova on a Successful Referendum Election",2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Chair and Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation, along with U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Dick Durbin (D-IL), Co-Chair of the U.S. Senate Ukraine Caucus, issued the following joint statement in response to reports of a successful referendum in Moldova, which constitutionally affirms its EU membership aspirations: “Following reports of a successful referendum election, we applaud the people of Moldova for enshrining into their constitution a commitment to a more democratic, European future—a rebuke of Moscow’s attempt at malign influence in the country. “As the people of Moldova reaffirm their goal of European Union membership, we are clear-eyed that achieving it will be no small feat. In its thirty-three years of independence, Moldova has repeatedly contended with Russian attempts to retain influence, whether through Moscow’s military presence in Transnistria, inside Moldova’s internationally recognized borders, or through rampant mis- and disinformation campaigns. Moldova has also grappled with significant ripple effects from Russia’s full-scale invasion of its neighbor, Ukraine, including disruptions in its energy supply, significant inflation and an unprecedented influx of refugees – to which the Moldovan people responded with generosity. “We also welcome the initial results from the presidential contest and an encouraging preliminary statement from the OSCE’s observation mission which described the elections as ‘well-managed’. We hope that the upcoming run-off elections, to be held on November 3, will also be conducted in the same manner and look forward to working with Moldova’s government as it continues strive toward Western integration.” Earlier this year, Shaheen led a Congressional delegation to Moldova with U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT). Shaheen and Murphy hosted a roundtable with civil society groups and free media organizations to discuss the threat that disinformation poses to its democracy and the nation’s efforts to combat Russian campaigns that have threatened to undermine Moldovan elections. The delegation also met with Moldova’s Prime Minister Dorin Recean and President Maia Sandu. Durbin met with Moldovan President Maia Sandu in Chicago last year. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-demands-action-on-broken-surveillance-cameras-at-southern-border,Pappas Demands Action on Broken Surveillance Cameras at Southern Border,2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Following NBC News’s reporting that 30% of the cameras in Border Patrol's main surveillance system are broken, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) demanded that U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas immediately address this security lapse to restore real-time border monitoring and ensure border security. A recently circulated Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) internal memo indicated that nearly one-third, approximately 150 out of 500, of its Remote Video Surveillance Systems cameras are not functioning. In the letter, Pappas expressed significant concerns about the delay in addressing CBP’s broken cameras, writing, “If left unresolved, this issue could undermine CBP’s ability to safeguard our borders, impede efforts to interdict fentanyl and other illicit substances, and endanger the safety and security of communities along our borders.” He continued, “It is unacceptable that such a significant portion of CBP’s surveillance infrastructure is offline, and worse, that the agency is unaware of how long this situation has persisted. These gaps in surveillance create blind spots that could be exploited by terrorists, drug and human traffickers, and other threats to national security.” Noting Republican leadership’s refusal to allow a vote on the Senate’s bipartisan border security bill that would support CBP personnel, Pappas wrote, “Despite the urgency of the situation at the border, Republican leadership has refused to allow a vote on the Senate’s bipartisan border security bill to address the issues along the southern border, which would provide much needed resources to our border patrol personnel and support their work to restore order and address security.” Concluding, he demanded action from DHS, “I request a briefing within the next two weeks to discuss CBP’s internal memo, its procedures for monitoring and addressing security gaps, how these lapses are assessed for national security risks, and the agency’s plans and timeline for restoring full camera functionality.” Read the full letter here. Background: Pappas has been an ardent supporter of bipartisan efforts to address America’s northern and southern border and has called on House Republican leadership to stop blocking the consideration of legislation to restore order and fix the U.S.’s immigration system that has been broken for decades. Pappas is a cosponsor of the Dignity Act, which is comprehensive, bipartisan legislation to address security and infrastructure challenges at the border, hire additional border patrol personnel, establish new pathways for asylum seekers, and create a path to citizenship. In March, Pappas helped launch a new border security task force to focus on the need for comprehensive, bipartisan solutions to address the border and fix the broken immigration system. Later that month, Pappas helped to pass the fiscal year 2024 government funding package, which included a $3.2 billion increase in funding for Customs and Border Patrol (CPB), providing for a record 22,000 agents, including 150 counter-fentanyl officers, and needed investments in fentanyl detection equipment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/grassley-and-bipartisan-senators-advocate-for-veterans-by-pushing-for-candp-exam-improvements,Grassley and Bipartisan Senators Advocate for Veterans by Pushing for C&P Exam Improvements,2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today led a bipartisan letter to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) demanding answers on the steps it is taking to ensure veterans’ access to quality, timely compensation and pension examinations (C&P exams) amid allegations contracted services and insufficient federal oversight have negatively impacted veterans. Joining Grassley are Sens. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.). “[T]he overall management and oversight of VA vendors that provide C&P exams must improve. As the department relies more on contracted examiners, it should also remain committed to ensuring that veterans are properly looked after,” the senators wrote. “The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, requires the department to provide oversight of C&P exams and to apply standards of timeliness and quality performance for [Veterans Health Administration] examiners and your contracted vendors. It also requires a mechanism for veterans, such as the ones described in this correspondence, to lodge complaints with the [Veterans Benefits Administration] to provide for a resolution to the unnecessary barriers put in front of our veterans. As we await the report from the department, our concerns for veterans persist,” they concluded. Grassley and his colleagues cited the following reported issues riddling C&P exam processes: VHA examiners are operating under limited capacity. A Jasper County, Iowa veteran said the VA expected him to travel 97 miles one way for a C&P exam rather than see a provider in nearby Des Moines. Contracted vendors are mismanaging appointments. A contractor assigned a Rindge, New Hampshire veteran to an appointment in Maine. When the veteran explained he couldn’t attend appointments there, the contractor suspended his claim. Contracted vendors are not maintaining their facilities. The VA Office of the Inspector General (OIG) found some contractor facilities are noncompliant with the Americans Disabilities Act, as well as Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards. The VA is not conducting proper oversight of contracted employees. The VBA said it cannot verify subcontracts into which exam vendors enter. While the VA must at minimum verify the contractors, the VA OIG found the department has not complied with contractor vetting requirements. Read the full letter HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/shaheen-hassan-celebrate-the-new-hampshire-womens-foundation-at-20th-anniversary-women-building-community-luncheon,"Shaheen, Hassan Celebrate the New Hampshire Women’s Foundation at 20th Anniversary Women Building Community Luncheon",2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"(Manchester, NH) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) delivered remarks at the New Hampshire Women’s Foundation’s 20th Anniversary Women Building Community Luncheon. The annual luncheon brings together Granite State women to celebrate the foundation’s work and for inspiration, connection and action. Photos from the luncheon can be found here. “Throughout my career I’ve often been the only woman in the room and the sole voice addressing how policy will impact women, children and families. With so many women of all ages and generations stepping up to lead, I’m happy that dynamic is changing,” said Senator Shaheen. “This luncheon is a chance to enrich an ever-expanding network of Granite State women supporting each other and finding solutions to common challenges.” “It was great to be at the Women’s Foundation luncheon today, where we celebrated the strides that we’ve made in women’s leadership and the work still ahead,” said Senator Hassan. “New Hampshire has long been a leader in electing women to political office, but we must continue to build on this progress, particularly now in the aftermath of Roe v. Wade being overturned. Our health and the health of our daughters and granddaughters is at stake, as is their equality and citizenship in the greatest democracy in the world.” The New Hampshire Women’s Foundation provides a unified voice dedicated to the advancement of gender equality and opportunity for the women and girls of New Hampshire. At the Luncheon, Kathy Beebe was awarded the SHE Change Award in recognition of her work as the executive director of HAVEN, New Hampshire’s largest violence prevention and support services agency. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-shaheen-hassan-join-epa-in-celebrating-31-million-for-nh-school-districts-to-upgrade-to-clean-school-buses-bringing-healthier-air-to-nh-children-and-families,"Pappas, Shaheen, Hassan Join EPA in Celebrating $31 Million for NH School Districts to Upgrade to Clean School Buses, Bringing Healthier Air to NH Children and Families",2024-10-16,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, during Children’s Health Month, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joinedSenator Maggie Hassan (NH),U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash, and the Derry Cooperative School District to celebrate $31 million in funding for 110 new clean school buses across nine school districts in New Hampshire. This funding is from the EPA's Clean School Bus Program, which was made possible by the bipartisan infrastructure law, and includes $8.6 million in rebate funding for Derry to purchase 25 zero-emission buses. “Clean school buses safeguard the well-being of New Hampshire children, save taxpayer dollars, help keep our air and environment clean, and make a big difference in the long-term health of our communities,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “The EPA's Clean School Bus Program was created by the bipartisan infrastructure law and is providing New Hampshire school districts with resources to upgrade their bus fleet to cleaner, safer vehicles, including rebate funding for Derry to purchase 25 zero-emission buses. This is an important step in the right direction for our children, taxpayers, and communities.” ""Replacing older diesel buses makes a big difference for kids' health and air quality in our communities. That’s why I’m so glad New Hampshire is receiving more than $33 million for 11 school districts to supply 117 new, zero-emission electric school buses. I couldn't be prouder to help deliver this lasting investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in the future of New Hampshire communities,"" said Senator Jeanne Shaheen. Today’s event showcased Derry's new clean energy school buses, which will address climate change, improve public health, and lower costs for New Hampshire schools,"" said Senator Maggie Hassan. “I worked with my colleagues to negotiate and pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to help make smart investments like this possible, and I will continue to work to support New Hampshire’s clean energy economy and lower costs."" “When I was a kid, I remember the acrid smell of the stinky diesel school bus that picked me up at my bus stop. No kid, no matter where they live, should have to breathe in the unhealthy exhaust from a diesel bus,” said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “EPA’s Clean School Bus Program is making it easier for kids to breathe better, cleaner air on the way to and from school. With October being Children’s Health Month, this is a great opportunity to continue amplifying the relationship between cleaner environments and the well-being of our communities, particularly our children. By transforming our nation’s diesel school bus fleet, we’re not only protecting our students, but saving school districts money, improving air quality, and uplifting American innovation and manufacturing.” “We are thrilled to be part of this initiative and grateful for the support of the EPA in helping us transition to clean energy. These new buses represent our commitment to reducing our environmental impact while ensuring safe, reliable transportation for our students. This grant allows us to take a significant step toward a greener future for our community and the next generation,” said Derry Cooperative School District Transportation Coordinator, Dr. Clifton Dancy. “At First Student, our top priority is ensuring each student we transport to and from school arrives ready to learn and returns home safely. Students across the state will soon have cleaner, quieter rides thanks to this funding, which will deliver 25 new electric school buses,” said Kevin Matthews, head of electrification for First Student. “As the company with the most electric school buses on the road today, we are pleased to work with the EPA and school officials in Derry to get these electric school buses in service. Reducing exposure to harmful tailpipe pollution will improve student health and better position them to succeed in school.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-visits-semiconductor-manufacturing-business-in-salem,Senator Hassan Visits Semiconductor Manufacturing Business in Salem,2024-10-16,2024,2024-10,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"SALEM – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan toured GPD Optoelectronics in New Hampshire on Wednesday, a local business that manufactures specialized semiconductors with applications in aerospace, defense, telecommunications, and other industries. The visit underscored the impact of the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, which Senator Hassan helped develop and pass into law, on boosting semiconductor production in the United States and increasing demand for American-made components, like those made by GPD Optoelectronics. “It was great to visit GPD Optoelectronics today, which is a prime example of the New Hampshire businesses that are driving American innovation,” said Senator Hassan. “GPD Optoelectronics’s work to produce specialized semiconductors not only continues to create excellent and well-paying jobs in New Hampshire, it also allows us to outcompete countries like China and strengthens our national security by ensuring that we meet our defense and infrastructure supply chain needs here at home.” Senator Hassan has been a leader in supporting small businesses and fostering innovation. She worked across the aisle to develop and pass into law the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, which is strengthening our economic and national security. The law is helping to support our supply chains, lower costs, and ensure that America can outcompete countries like China by investing in research and manufacturing here at home. Additionally, Senator Hassan has led efforts to cut taxes for innovative businesses and startups, and she successfully advocated for doubling the refundable R&D tax credit for small businesses and startups in the Inflation Reduction Act, which is now law. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z