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://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-helps-fund-government-sends-bill-355m-community-projects-nw-oregon,Bonamici Helps Fund Government; Sends Bill With $35.5M for Community Projects in NW Oregon to Biden’s Desk,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/23/22] –Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici announced that all 15 of the Community Projects she recommended were included in the government funding bill passed by the House and Senate, sending more than $35 million for NW Oregon to President Joe Biden’s desk.

The Community Project Funding was passed as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 to fund the government for the next year. The package also included provisions led by Bonamici to protect retirement savings, help students access meals in the summer, and fund child care.

“This funding package is great news for Oregonians,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “It will deliver more than $35 million for 15 projects I advocated for in NW Oregon to support affordable housing, make our roads safer, improve equity in our health care system, and more. These projects will be complemented by robust funding for child care, increased access to summer meals for students, protections for pregnant workers and retirement savings, and other efforts I championed. I look forward to seeing how the funding from this legislation helps our communities thrive, and I am committed to continuing to work on these important issues.”

The 15 community projects funded in the bill are:

Beaverton Downtown Loop

City of Beaverton

$4,000,000

Behavioral Health Paraprofessional Registered Apprenticeship and Pre-Apprenticeship

United We Heal Training Trust

$892,000

Capacity Building Affordable Housing

West Tuality Habitat for Humanity

$750,000

Columbia County Advanced and Additive Manufacturing Small Business Incubator

Columbia County Economic Team

$814,000

Dartmouth Crossing South-Tigard Triangle Affordable Housing

REACH Community Development Corp

$1,500,000

Fairfield Apartments

City of Portland

$2,000,000

Hall Boulevard Pedestrian Safety Improvements at Hemlock & Spruce

Oregon Department of Transportation

$3,200,000

Health Center Facilities and Equipment Upgrades

Oregon Association of Relief Nurseries

$5,055,844

Health IT Workforce Development

OCHIN Inc.

$2,001,642

Main Avenue/OR 104 Pedestrian Route

City of Warrenton

$1,360,000

Merlo Bus Garage Zero Emission Retrofit

TriMet

$5,000,000

Newberg Dundee Bypass Corridor Safety and Intersection Improvements

Oregon Department of Transportation

$4,000,000

Semiconductor and Advanced Manufacturing Workforce

Portland Community College

$910,000

Treatment Foster Care Oregon Model with LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group

Oregon Community Programs

$1,000,000

Willamette Water Supply System

Tualatin Valley Water District

$3,000,000

Under the rules of the House Appropriations Committee, Members of Congress could each submit up to 15 Community Project Funding requests for consideration during the fiscal year 2023 appropriations legislative process. The reformed and transparent Community Project Funding process allows Members of Congress to advocate for specific community financial support in a local, highly competitive process. You can find more information on Bonamici’s website about the Community Projects she supported: Bonamici.House.Gov/CommunityProjects

“The City of Portland thanks Rep. Bonamici first and foremost for championing the $2 million special appropriation to support redevelopment of the Fairfield Apartments,” said Portland City Commissioner Dan Ryan, who Oversees the Portland Housing Bureau. “The Fairfield provides dedicated affordable housing for very low-income residents who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. These funds help us preserve a critical housing type in our streets-to-housing continuum. The project will also preserve a historic building and generate opportunities for small-scale, neighborhood-serving retail in the downtown core where many other low-income tenants reside in regulated affordable housing. We are grateful to the Congresswoman and our congressional delegation for their support of this much-needed project.”

""I'm thankful to Congresswoman Bonamici for her tremendous support of our Downtown Loop Project,"" said Beaverton Mayor Lacey Beaty. “These active transportation investments will improve mobility and access for the Central Beaverton neighborhood, an area that has been historically disenfranchised and directly impacted by redlining. Guided by extensive community input, our Downtown Equity Strategy, and our Climate Action Plan, these improvements will emphasize safety for all while proactively addressing harmful historical practices. Beaverton is deeply grateful to Congresswoman Bonamici for making this investment in our community.”

""Oregon has some of the highest rates in the country for drug addiction and negative mental health outcomes,” said Stacy Chamberlain, Chair of United We Heal Training Trust. “These funds will help rebuild the workforce with a focus on innovative apprenticeship programs built upon collaboration between employers and workers. A stable workforce is the only way to improve client care and make Oregon a healthier place for all. Thank you to Rep. Bonamici for her work bringing creative solutions to our addiction crisis.""

The Consolidated Appropriation Act of 2023 also included Bonamici’s Retirement Savings Lost and Found Act, which will establish an Office of the Retirement Savings Lost and Found to help workers who move between jobs track, consolidate, and grow their retirement savings accounts. It also includes a portion of Bonamici’s Healthy Meals, Healthy Kids Act to establish a permanent, nationwide Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program that expands access to school meals during summer breaks.

The package increased funding for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) by 30 percent, following a request led by Bonamici to use appropriations to address the nation’s child care crisis. It also includes the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, legislation Bonamici has long championed to provide pregnant workers with reasonable accommodations on the job without facing discrimination or retaliation in the workplace.

Bonamici’s full statement for the record on the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/langevin-thompson-announce-rep-suzanne-bonamici-new-co-chair-bipartisan-career,"Langevin, Thompson, Announce Rep. Suzanne Bonamici as New Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Career and Technical Education Caucus",2022-12-16,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressmen Jim Langevin (D-RI) and Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) announced that Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) will become the new Democratic co-chair of the bipartisan House Career and Technical Education Caucus at the beginning of the 118th Congress. The transition comes as Rep. Langevin -- who has co-led the Caucus for 11 years -- prepares to depart from Congress at the end of the year.

“Career and technical education has tremendous potential to enrich the learning experience for students,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “CTE helps students stay engaged in school while learning skills that lead to in-demand, good-paying jobs. Congress has made historic investments in workforce development and domestic manufacturing, and CTE will play a central role in preparing workers to thrive and contribute to the growth of our economy. It is an honor to serve as co-chair of the Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus and continue its legacy of bipartisan solutions to our nation’s pressing education and workforce issues. I’m grateful for Congressman Langevin’s long dedication to advancing CTE programs and serving as co-chair of the caucus, and I look forward to working with Congressman Thompson on legislation that opens pathways to quality careers for students and strengthens our workforce.”

“As the global economy continues to change, our American workforce must change with it. To sustain America’s competitive edge on the global stage, we must double down on our investments in career and technical training, apprenticeship programs, and community colleges,” said Rep. Jim Langevin. “It’s been a privilege to lead the CTE Caucus for the last 11 years, as we have worked in a bipartisan fashion to close the ‘skills gap’ once and for all. I know that Rep. Bonamici shares my commitment to preparing Americans of all ages for the good-paying careers of the 21st century economy, and I congratulate her on this new position.”

“It has been a privilege to work so closely with Congressman Langevin for more than a decade to advance career and technical education (CTE) in a bipartisan manner,” Rep. Thompson said. “We’ve made great strides to improve access and public awareness to the many benefits of CTE. By giving students the ability to explore career paths and build transferable skills, we are one step closer to developing a stronger, more skilled American workforce. I look forward to working with Congresswoman Bonamici as we continue to expand opportunities for Americans of all ages for good-paying, family-sustaining careers.”

“ACTE is grateful for our warm relationship with Congressman Langevin in support of CTE over the years, and we would like to express our sincere gratitude for all that he has done to lift up career and technical education (CTE) as a member of the CTE Caucus,” said ACTE Executive Director LeAnn Wilson. “While we will miss the Congressman, we are excited to begin working with Congresswoman Bonamici to ensure that our nation’s workforce development and education systems can work together to ensure a family-sustaining and rewarding career is accessible for all Americans. Our workforce is rapidly evolving, and we must make strong investments in CTE now to prepare for the future.”

“Representative Langevin's leadership as co-chair of the House CTE Caucus culminates over two decades of dedication to increase the awareness of and support for CTE and its learners,” said Advance CTE Executive Director Kimberly Green. ""Advance CTE is incredibly grateful for his partnership and dedication, and we wish him the very best in his next chapter. We look forward to working with Representative Bonamici in the next Congress to secure the necessary resources for state leaders to build high-quality, equitable CTE systems for every learner.""

Comprised of Members of Congress from across the ideological spectrum, the Congressional Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus was founded to support and promote CTE programs for workers of all ages. The CTE caucus believes that well-paying, family-sustaining jobs should be available to everyone, and CTE programming can make that goal a reality.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/oregon-lawmakers-honor-portland-thorns-senate-and-house-resolutions,Oregon Lawmakers Honor Portland Thorns in Senate and House Resolutions,2022-12-14,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed a resolution introduced by Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley to congratulate the Portland Thorns for winning the 2022 National Women’s Soccer League championship. A similar resolution has been introduced in the House by U.S. Reps. Earl Blumenauer and Suzanne Bonamici.

The Thorns’ 2-0 victory on Oct. 29 in the NWSL championship game over Kansas City made the Portland franchise the first in league history to win three titles.

“The Thorns’ triumph is an inspiration to us all,” Bonamici said. “Winning a third NWSL Championship title -- the most in league history -- is a remarkable achievement, and I look forward to continuing to support these exceptional women on the field and off. Portland is fortunate to call the Thorns our home team!”

“The Thorns once again proved themselves the flagship franchise for women’s soccer in the United States with yet another championship to add to their trophy case,” Wyden said. “Whether it was at the title celebration in Portland’s Providence Park or watching the championship game on TV at the Sports Bra on the east side of town, I witnessed the deep support the fans have for this team and how that helps makes our city the epicenter for women’s sports in our country.”

“The Thorns made history this year by winning their third championship—what an amazing achievement!” said Merkley. “Watching the team win was a proud moment for every Portland soccer fan across Oregon and the globe.”

“With their third championship in ten years, the Thorns are undoubtably the greatest sports franchise in Portland’s history,” Blumenauer said. “Legends like Christine Sinclair, Meghan Klingenberg, and the rest of the team are great ambassadors of the game and make me proud to represent Soccer City, USA.”

The entire resolution is here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-helps-house-pass-respect-marriage-act-bill-heads-presidents-desk,Bonamici Helps House Pass Respect for Marriage Act; Bill Heads to President’s Desk,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. [12/8/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) helped the House pass the Respect for Marriage Act, sending the legislation to President Joe Biden's desk to be signed into law.

“Everyone should be able to marry who they love,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “The Respect for Marriage Act enshrines this fundamental principle into federal law so same-sex and interracial marriages are protected and honored. Congress must continue to pass legislation to protect our hard-won freedoms and privacy, especially with the willingness of this extremist Supreme Court to erode longstanding precedent.”

The Respect for Marriage Act originally passed the House with Bonamici’s support on July 19, 2022. It came back to the House after Senate passage on November 29, 2022 because of changes in the bill’s language.

Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici is a Vice Chair of the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus and Chair of its LGBTQ+ Aging Issues Task Force. As Chair of the Education Committee’s Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Human Services, Bonamici has also been a leader in efforts to pass legislationto protect the LGBTQ community against discrimination in housing, access to credit, and other services.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-jacobs-colleagues-lead-over-half-house-democratic-caucus-push-double,"Bonamici, Jacobs, Colleagues Lead Over Half the House Democratic Caucus in Push to Double Child Care Funding in Omnibus",2022-12-02,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (CA-53); and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Chair of the Education and Labor Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Human Services; are leading more than half of the House Democratic Caucus – 121 House colleagues – in a push to double the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) funding in the end-of-year omnibus package. In a letter to House and Senate Appropriations leaders, the lawmakers called for a total funding increase of $6.17 billion to CCDBG to address the nation’s child care crisis, characterized by a lack of providers, rising costs, and limited availability of subsidies to meet the needs of eligible children.

The letter is co-led by Rep. Marc Veasey (TX-33), Rep. Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), and Rep. Joaquin Castro (TX-20) and is endorsed by AFSCME, Center for American Progress (CAP), the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), The Century Foundation (TCF), Early Care & Education Consortium (ECEC), First Focus Campaign for Children, MomsRising, National Education Association (NEA), National Women's Law Center (NWLC), and ZERO to THREE.

Read the Letter Here

“Child care is essential, but it is often out of reach,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “Many families struggle to balance paying for child care with covering food, rent, and other necessities. The Child Care and Development Block Grant is a powerful tool to make child care more accessible and affordable, but it’s not enough to meet the demand. We must fund it at the highest possible level in the coming year.”

“Our child care infrastructure is hanging by a thread. In San Diego and across the country, parents can’t find or afford child care and providers have too little pay, benefits, and support to do their incredibly important work,” said Congresswoman Sara Jacobs. “By failing to devote the weight of our country’s resources to address this crisis, we’re holding back our economy, families, and the next generation from their fullest potential. I will keep doing everything I can – including pushing to double child care funding in this year’s omnibus – until every family has access to high-quality, affordable child care and early learning opportunities.”

“In the first eighteen months of the pandemic, Bexar County lost 20% of the childcare providers that working parents depended on,” said Congressman Joaquin Castro. “As Texas rebuilds from the challenges of the last three years, we need more investments in childcare to support overworked and underpaid providers and help parents – especially women – rejoin the workforce. I urge the House Appropriations Committee to include the highest possible funding amount for the Child Care and Development Block Grant in the FY2023 appropriations package to make sure all children can get high-quality care.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-introduces-bill-make-child-care-available-affordable-housing,Bonamici Introduces Bill to Make Child Care Available at Affordable Housing Buildings,2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [12/1/22] – Today Representative Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) introduced legislation to make child care more accessible to people who live in affordable housing.

The Build Housing with Care Act would provide $500 million to help construct child care centers and support home-based child care providers connected with affordable housing buildings. Funding would be prioritized for projects located in child care deserts or rural communities, including qualified Head Start providers and providers that serve low-income children.

“Too many families struggle to find affordable child care in their communities,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “This can keep parents out of the workforce or force them to make impossible choices between paying for basic needs like child care, food, or rent. Co-locating child care with affordable housing will reach those who need help the most. I’ve seen how co-location is benefitting Oregonians, and I’m introducing the Build Housing with Care Act to make this lifechanging service available to more families.”

It is estimated that funding from the Build Housing with Care Act could build more than 120 new co-located child care centers, supporting the development of critical care supply in connection with affordable housing.

“The Low Income Investment Fund (LIIF) applauds Congresswoman Bonamici for introducing the Build Housing with Care Act to help increase supply, innovate solutions, and streamline family access to housing and child care – two of the highest costs families face,” said Kim Latimer-Nelligan, President of LIIF. “This innovative new grant program is directly responsive to family needs and designed to reflect the unique challenges and strengths of child care providers, affordable housing developers, and Community Development Financial Institutions. LIIF is proud to endorse this bill and will work to achieve its far-reaching benefits for families in Oregon and nationwide.”

“Congresswoman Bonamici’s Build Housing with Care Act is a commendable effort to connect affordable housing with child care centers,” said Tess Hembree, Director of Legislative Affairs for the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials. “Low-income families in affordable housing units often lack access to quality, convenient child care services. Rep. Bonamici’s efforts through this legislation would increase child care options for low-income children across the nation.”

“Children’s Institute sees the Build Housing with Care Act, introduced by Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, as an essential step in creating high-quality child care opportunities for more children from low-income families,” said Kali Thorne Ladd, Chief Executive Officer of Children’s Institute. “We know that a strong child care sector supports early learning and healthy development for young children. It also helps parents stay working, supporting their families and their future. In Oregon, every county in the state is considered a child care desert. Many families, particularly low-income families, do not have feasible options when it comes to care for their children. A federal investment will help create immediate solutions for the children and families who need it most.”

“The child care crisis across the country continues to worsen,” said Courtney Helstein, Sr. Political Director for Family Forward Oregon. “More than 100,000 Americans missed work last month because of child care problems, an all-time high that’s even greater than during the height of the pandemic, according to new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. We need immediate and meaningful action from lawmakers. Families, employers, and our economy all depend on it. We are so grateful for Congresswoman Bonamici’s leadership on this issue and for her commitment to Oregon’s families.”

A fact sheet on the Build Housing with Care Act can be found here, and the full text can be found here.

Original cosponsors to Congresswoman Bonamici’s legislation include Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D (D-NY), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Veronica Escobar (D-TX), Dwight Evans (D-PA), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Derek Kilmer (D-WA), Marie Newman (D-IL), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Dina Titus (D-NV), and Juan Vargas (D-CA).

The legislation is endorsed by the Low Income Investment Fund, National Low Income Housing Coalition, National Housing Conference, Enterprise Community Partners, National Education Association, National Women’s Law Center, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, National Housing Law Project, Council of Large Public Housing Authorities, American Federation of Teachers, ZERO TO THREE, National Children’s Facilities Network, First Five Years Fund, MomsRising, First Focus Campaign for Children, YWCA USA, National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders, Capital Impact Partners, National Association for County Community and Economic Development, Prosperity Now, Save the Children, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), Home Grown, National Alliance of Community Economic Development Associations (NACEDA), African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs, IFF, Purpose Built Communities Foundation, Family Forward Oregon, and Children’s Institute.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-announces-winner-oregon-first-districts-annual-congressional-app,Bonamici Announces Winner of Oregon First District’s Annual Congressional App Challenge,2022-11-22,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. [11/22/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici announced that a team of 8th graders – Nivedha Sathish Kumar, Sahana Muthaiya, and Anusha Jeyakumar – won the 2022 Congressional App Challenge for Oregon’s First Congressional District.

Sathish Kumar and Jeyakumar are students at Stoller Middle School and Muthaiya is a student at Tumwater Middle School.

Their app, BikeBetter, aims to help bicyclists safely plan their routes and avoid high-crash areas. It uses Oregon Department of Transportation crash data collected over 13 years to create a crash zone heatmap, showing users what streets are safe relative to others. Combining this data with the Google Maps application programming interface allows users to create a route between two addresses with high-crash zones marked on the map, helping the user choose an alternate route if needed.

“Congratulations to Nivedha, Sahana, and Anusha for winning the 2022 Congressional App Challenge,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “These bright students identified a problem —finding safe bike routes—and came up with an innovative solution that can benefit the community and the environment. I look forward to seeing what these talented coders create next.”

“We are thrilled about winning the Congressional App Challenge!” said the winning 8th grade team. “Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici provided a great platform to express our talents. Special gratitude to our teachers and mentors who taught the basics of coding. We hope to expand our reach by incorporating other cities and increase its impact on bike safety!”

You can view a video presentation of the app here.

Judges gave an honorable mention to the team of Tai Wong, King Hey Chan, Jonathan Hu, and Anderson Men for their app, Focused. The app is designed to help users with ADHD and procrastination issues to better track deadlines and assignments through alarm notifications and music. Wong, Chan, and Men are students at Sunset High School and Hu is a student at Westview High School.

You can view a video presentation of Focused here.

A panel of expert judges from Northwest Oregon selected the winning app. The judges evaluated the submissions for creativity, originality, user experience, and design. The three judges were:

Sheri Dover, Director, PDX Code Guild

Rihana Mungin, Interim Executive Director & Board Co-Chair, PDXWIT

Katie SanFilippo, Chief Executive Officer, ChickTech

Bonamici recognized the winning students in a virtual reception with students from Oregon's First District who submitted entries. The winning app will be featured in the U.S. Capitol Building and on the House of Representatives website.

Bonamici is a founder and co-chair of the Congressional STEAM Caucus, which advocates for the integration of the arts and design into science, technology, engineering, and math education to encourage creative thinking and engage more students. By supporting and recognizing young programmers, Congress is acknowledging the importance of these fields. The U.S. House of Representatives organizes the nationwide Congressional App Challenge each year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-blumenauer-defazio-call-low-income-housing-tax-credit-financing-fix,"Bonamici, Blumenauer, DeFazio Call for Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Financing Fix",2022-11-18,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON DC [11/18/2022] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), and Congressman Peter DeFazio (D-OR) urged House leadership to include provisions that would improve effectiveness of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) in any end-of-year tax legislation.

The LIHTC has been used for the construction or rehabilitation of more than 3 million affordable homes nationwide since 1986, and is the largest federal program designed to incentivize more affordable housing. Currently, to access a 4 percent tax credit through the LIHTC program, 50 percent of a development must be funded with Private Activity Bonds (PABs).

The Oregon lawmakers called for reducing the proportion of PABs needed to access the 4 percent tax credit from 50 percent to 25 percent, and increasing the state allocations of PABs to mitigate the competition for bond resources. According to analysis prepared for the National Council of State Housing Agencies, this change would raise nearly $100 billion annually for the development of affordable housing.

“By lowering the PAB threshold test and increasing the PAB allocation, state and local affordable housing investments can build more homes for working families, expand access to supportive housing to better serve older Americans and people experiencing mental health crises, and maintain progress in addressing the housing crisis,” the lawmakers wrote. “We look forward to working with you to make sure that any end-of-year tax legislation unlocks these and other affordable housing tools to make housing more affordable in our communities.”

More than twenty states, including Oregon, have already reached their federally-allocated PAB cap. Without further congressional action, state and local governments and affordable housing developers are limited in their ability to finance critical new housing stock. This barrier makes building affordable housing more costly and burdensome.

“This work by Oregon’s Congressional delegation has been vital in creating new tools for building affordable housing,” said Metro Council President Lynn Peterson. “Private activity bonds help limit the amount of locally-generated money needed to build affordable housing as our nation faces an affordable housing crisis. Without this action, Metro-area taxpayers could have to double their subsidy for the affordable housing we’re building for more than 12,000 people. We call on members on all sides of the aisle to take action to reduce the 50% threshold for private activity bonds and want to express our deep appreciation to the members of the Oregon delegation who are taking a leadership role on this issue.”

“Private Activity Bond funds represent more than 30% of the financing for typical affordable housing development, but the current need for these resources in Oregon is more than double the amount of funding available in the immediate future,” said Molly Rogers, Interim Director of the Portland Housing Bureau. “This resource shortage threatens to impede our progress toward meeting the goals of our voter-approved Portland and Metro housing bond measures and delay the production of urgently needed affordable housing at this critical time. We are thankful to our Congressional delegation for leading this effort at such a critical time.”

You can read the lawmakers’ full letter to House leadership below and here.

Dear Speaker Pelosi and Minority Leader McCarthy:

The lack of access to affordable housing affects communities throughout our nation, and especially in Oregon. The National Low Income Housing Coalition estimates that there is a shortage of nearly 130,000 available and affordable rental homes for Oregonians at or below 50 percent Area Median Income.[1] Throughout Oregon, state and local governments are committing additional funds to build and preserve more affordable housing. A critical part of that commitment is the use of Private Activity Bonds (PABs) to help finance Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) projects. To allow Oregon to fully leverage these investments with federal housing tools, Congress must remove impediments that are limiting the effectiveness of the 4 percent LIHTC and PABs. Because this is an urgent issue, we strongly encourage that these provisions be included in any end-of-year tax legislation.

Since 1986, LIHTC has created more than 3 million affordable homes nationwide. As the largest federal program to create more affordable housing, it is essential that it continues to work for every community. Currently, to use 4 percent LIHTC resources, 50 percent of a development must be funded with PABs. Unfortunately, twenty states have already reached their federally-allocated PAB cap. Without further congressional action, state and local governments and affordable housing developers are limited in their ability to finance critical new housing stock. This challenge is not unique to Oregon, nearly two dozen states around the country are also at their PAB cap. This barrier makes building affordable housing more costly and burdensome.

Congress can free up essential affordable housing tools for our state, counties, and communities by reducing the proportion of PABs needed to access 4 percent LIHTC resources from 50 percent to 25 percent. In an analysis for the National Council of State Housing Agencies, estimates show that reducing the PAB threshold to 25 percent could free up as much as $93.2 billion in financing for housing development.[2] This proposal has passed the House of Representatives,[3] been explored in a Ways and Means Committee hearing, Nowhere To Live: Profits, Disinvestment, And The American Housing Crisis[4], and is included in the broadly supported, bipartisan Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act.[5]

In addition to reducing the PAB threshold test to 25 percent, Congress should also increase the state allocations of PABs to mitigate the competition for bond resources and make LIHTC financing more readily available.

By lowering the PAB threshold test and increasing the PAB allocation, state and local affordable housing investments can build more homes for working families, expand access to supportive housing to better serve older Americans and people experiencing mental health crises, and maintain progress in addressing the housing crisis. We look forward to working with you to make sure that any end-of-year tax legislation unlocks these and other affordable housing tools to make housing more affordable in our communities. We greatly appreciate your continued leadership to help Americans access safe, affordable housing and appreciate your prompt attention to this important issue.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-introduces-bill-address-public-defense-shortage,Bonamici Introduces Bill to Address Public Defense Shortage,2022-11-17,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [11/17/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici introduced legislation to support public defenders and address the public defense shortage.

The Ensuring Quality Access to Legal (EQUAL) Defense Act would improve access to counsel by providing $250 million in funding for public defense grants. The bill will also help to address workload limits, establish pay parity between public defenders and prosecutors within five years, and more.

Currently, public defenders across the country are overwhelmed with massive caseloads. Many lack access to adequate resources, technology, and training programs, and they are not paid commensurate with their abilities and responsibilities. The American Bar Association estimates that Oregon’s public defense system alone is short nearly 1,300 attorneys.

“Public defenders are an essential part of our criminal justice system, and people accused of a crime have a right to counsel,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “Right now, we have a dangerous shortage of public defenders and the public defenders we do have are struggling under burdensome caseloads and conditions. My former colleague, Congressman Ted Deutch, previously led this legislation to improve access to counsel nationally and limit unnecessary incarceration costs. I’m leading the EQUAL Defense Act to finally secure the resources that our public defenders and people in the criminal justice system need and deserve.”

“Absent counsel, criminal prosecutions cannot move forward” said Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt. “Victim and defendant’s rights are equally essential to the administration of justice. When there is a lack of existing public defenders to handle cases, hollowed pipelines of new attorneys to enter the field due to both expense and long term financial stability, victims and the accused lose access to justice. The Ensuring Quality Access to Legal (EQUAL) Defense Act seeks to remedy all of these issues, for safer more just communities.”

The EQUAL Defense Act is supported by the National Legal Aid & Defender Association (NLADA), National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL), Gideon's Promise, National Association for Public Defense (NAPD), and Project On Government Oversight.

“We applaud the reintroduction of the EQUAL Defense Act, which is an urgently needed and transformative law that will help states to finally meet the promise of equal justice,” said April Frazier Camara, President and CEO of National Legal Aid & Defender Association. “People who have been accused of crimes have the right to representation. We essentially undermine due process and compromise the ability of people to seek true justice when public defenders are forced to handle too many cases with too few resources. The EQUAL Defense Act will ensure that public defenders have the resources they need to ensure that people receive the best representation possible. We are grateful to Congresswoman Bonamici for her leadership in sponsoring the EQUAL Defense Act.”

""The right to counsel is the right from which all other protections in the Constitution flow,” said Sarah Turberville, Director of The Constitution Project at the Project On Government Oversight. “The dramatic disparity in resources and capacity faced by defender systems throughout the country must be addressed and this legislation takes a very important step forward to close that gap. POGO is very grateful for Congressman Bonamici's leadership on this critical issue.""

The Ensuring Quality Access to Legal (EQUAL) Defense Act would:

Create a $250 million grant program to help fund public defense, which will limit workload for full-time public defenders

Establish pay parity between public defenders and prosecutors within five years

Collect data on public defender workloads, including the number of hours worked per month and the percentage of hours worked per month on a range of tasks

Provide $5 million for non-profit and government organizations to provide comprehensive training for public defenders

Require Byrne-JAG recipients to provide data on the extent to which the state is providing public defenders for indigent people in the criminal justice system

Reauthorize the student loan program, increase the overall authorization amount from $25 million to $75 million, and increase per borrower repayment limits",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/merkley-bonamici-jayapal-team-introduce-legislation-protect-consumers,"Merkley, Bonamici, Jayapal Team Up to Introduce Legislation to Protect Consumers from Predatory Payday Lending Practices",2022-11-16,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley teamed up with Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01) and Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07) to introduce the Stopping Abuse and Fraud in Electronic (SAFE) Lending Act.The SAFE Lending Act will protect consumers from deceptive and predatory practices that strip wealth from working families by cracking down on some of the worst abuses stemming from the payday lending industry, particularly in online payday lending.

Under the direction of the Trump Administration, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) reversed course on national rules protecting consumers from payday loan predators. Without strong CFPB protections at a national level, state laws protecting consumers will be all the more important.

“Before we kicked the payday lenders out of Oregon, I saw up close how payday lenders trapped families in my blue collar neighborhood in an inescapable vortex of debt,” said Senator Merkley. “This legislation will ensure important consumer protections, protect state laws like Oregon’s, and create guardrails to prevent consumers from being trapped in an endless cycle of debt. American families work hard for their earnings, and they shouldn’t end up with their financial foundations ruined just because of one medical emergency or a surprise car repair.”

“It is unacceptable that predatory lenders continue to trap consumers in a cycle of debt, taking advantage of families and individuals in times of financial distress,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “I’m pleased to lead the SAFE Lending Act with Senator Merkley and Rep. Jayapal to protect consumers across the country from these dangerous, unscrupulous practices and to provide needed transparency.”

“Working families across the country do not deserve to have their hard-earned savings stripped away by payday lenders who continue to use predatory tactics to trap people into debt,” said Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. “The SAFE Lending Act will provide important guardrails to make sure working people and their families are protected against payday lenders and puts an end to the dangerous practices that entrap consumers.”

Many states have enacted tough laws to stop abusive lending, but payday predators have continued using online lending to prey on consumers by hiding behind layers of anonymously registered websites and “lead generators” to evade enforcement. Payday lenders with access to consumers’ bank accounts are also issuing the money from loans on prepaid cards, connected to those accounts, which include steep overdraft fees. When these cards are overdrawn, the payday lender then can reach into the consumer’s bank account and charge the overdraft fee, piling on further debts. Even when the lending violates the law, abusive payday lenders can empty consumers’ bank accounts before individuals have a chance to assert their rights.

The SAFE Lending Act of 2022 would put into law three major principles to make the consumer lending marketplace safer and more secure:

1. Ensure That Consumers Have Control of their Own Bank Accounts

Ensure that a third party can’t gain control of a consumer’s account through remotely created checks (RCCs) – checks from a consumer’s bank account created by third parties. To prevent unauthorized RCCs, consumers would be able to preauthorize exactly who can create an RCC on his or her behalf, such as when traveling.

Allow consumers to cancel an automatic withdrawal in connection with a small-dollar loan. This would prevent an Internet payday lender from stripping a checking account without a consumer being able to stop it.

2. Allow Consumers to Regain Control of their Money and Increase Transparency

Require all lenders, including banks, to abide by state rules for the small-dollar, payday-like loans they may offer customers in a state. Many individual states currently have much tougher laws than the federal government. There is currently no federal cap on interest or limit on the number of times a loan can be rolled over.

Increase transparency and create a better understanding of the small-dollar loan industry by requiring payday lenders to register with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Ban overdraft fees on prepaid cards issued by payday lenders who use them to gain access to consumers’ funds and to add to the already exorbitant costs of payday loans.

Require the CFPB to monitor any other fees associated with payday prepaid cards and issue a rule banning any other predatory fees on prepaid cards.

3. Ban Lead Generators and Anonymous Payday Lending

Some websites describe themselves as payday lenders but are actually “lead generators” that collect applications and auction them to payday lenders and others. This practice is rife with abuse and has led to fraudulent debt collection.

The SAFE Lending Act bans lead generators and anonymously registered websites in payday lending.

Joining Merkley in the Senate, the SAFE Lending Act is co-sponsored by Senators Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM).

Joining Bonamici and Jayapal in the House, the SAFE Lending Act is co-sponsored by Representatives Earl Blumenauer (D-OR-03), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (D-IL-04), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX-29), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX-18), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-At Large), and Katie Porter (D-CA-45).

The SAFE Lending Act of 2022 is endorsed by Americans for Financial Reform, Center for Responsible Lending, Consumer Action, Consumer Federation of America, National Association of Consumer Advocates, National Consumer League, National Consumer Law Center, Public Citizen, and UnidosUS.

Final bill text can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-joins-pelosi-congressional-delegation-cop27-egypt,"Bonamici Joins Pelosi, Congressional Delegation to COP27 in Egypt",2022-11-09,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Speaker Nancy Pelosi is leading a Congressional delegation to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. The delegation will convey the commitment of the United States Congress to continuing the robust progress made to tackle the climate crisis under the leadership of President Biden.

""As humanity confronts an accelerating climate crisis, the United States Congress is proud to work side-by-side with our partners around the world to advance a healthier, more sustainable and more equitable future for all,"" Speaker Nancy Pelosi said. ""We're all in, and since last year's COP26 in Glasgow, President Biden and the Democratic Congress have proudly enacted the most significant climate investment in U.S. history, putting America on track to slash carbon pollution by 40 percent this decade. At COP27, as the world stands ‘Together For Implementation,' our distinguished and experienced delegation will engage in meetings with our partners – as well as civil society, youth and business leaders – to discuss the work that must be done to continue our progress to advance climate action and protect the planet. In the leadership of our delegation is Chairwoman Kathy Castor of the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis.""

""COP27 is an opportunity to renew our global commitment to bold climate action and build partnerships with fellow nations,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""It's an honor to return to another critical UN Climate Change Conference with Speaker Pelosi as we continue to advance our plan to protect our planet and the health of our communities. We must continue to mitigate and adapt to climate change effects while accelerating the clean energy economy and helping overburdened communities build resilience. I look forward to having important conversations about the significance of water and agriculture to the climate crisis, innovative clean technologies, climate finance, ocean acidification, and more. There is no time to waste for global action on the climate crisis.""

The Members of the delegation are:

Speaker Nancy Pelosi

Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, Member, House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis; Member, House Committee on Science, Space and Technology; Member, House Committee on Education and Labor

Chairman Frank Pallone, Chair, House Committee on Energy and Commerce

Chairman Richard Neal, Chair, House Committee on Ways and Means

Chairman Gregory Meeks, Chair, House Foreign Affairs Committee

Chairwoman Kathy Castor, Chair, House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis; Member, House Committee on Energy and Commerce

Congressman Earl Blumenauer, Chair, Subcommittee on Trade, House Committee on Ways and Means

Congresswoman Barbara Lee, Chair, Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs, House Committee on Appropriations

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree, Chair, Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related Agencies, House Committee on Appropriations; Member, House Agriculture Committee

Congressman Jared Huffman, Chair, Subcommittee on Water, Oceans and Wildlife, House Committee on Natural Resources; Member, House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis; Member, House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure

Congresswoman Nanette Diaz Barragán, Member, House Committee on Energy and Commerce; Member, House Committee on Homeland Security

Congressman Adriano Espaillat, Member, House Committee on Appropriations; Member, House Committee on Education and Labor

Congressman Sean Casten, Member, House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis; Member, House Committee on Science, Space and Technology

Congresswoman Veronica Escobar, Member, House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-leads-call-guidance-help-asylum-seekers,Bonamici Leads Call for Guidance to Help Asylum Seekers,2022-11-03,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [11/3/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) led 18 Members of Congress in calling for guidance to help asylum seekers who have had an immigration removal order and their tied asylum case dismissed by an immigration judge.

The number of dismissed removal cases has increased since the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA) issued a memo in April 2022 that strongly encouraged their attorneys to exercise prosecutorial discretion, including dismissal of proceedings, in their cases. The Members of Congress applauded this move, but noted that questions remain about how to navigate affirmative asylum claims and applications for work authorizations in the wake of a dismissal before the immigration court.

""People who seek asylum are typically fleeing horrific violence in their home countries and come to the United States to save their lives, the lives of their children, or both,"" the Members wrote. ""Clear, comprehensive guidance for people seeking asylum with terminated removal proceedings is needed.""

The experience of a family seeking asylum in Bonamici's district in NW Oregon prompted her to lead the letter.

""I learned about this gap in guidance when asylum advocates contacted me about a mother and son who had many questions about what would happen to their asylum claim if they accepted an offer from ICE's Office of the Principal Legal Advisor to have their removal order and case dismissed,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""This family fled terrible gang violence in Guatemala, and since 2020 they have been supporting themselves while they wait for their immigration court hearing. The mother wants to reunite with her two youngest children, who remain in Guatemala, but her court hearing is not until 2026 and she cannot petition for them or visit them until then. The discretion exercised by ICE OPLA is supposed to help people who have legitimate asylum claims – like this mother and her son – get out of a lengthy court backlog. Unfortunately, USCIS has failed to provide the family with information about how and when their asylum case will move forward.""

The letter urges USCIS to swiftly publish guidance so people applying for asylum whose court cases are dismissed can have consistent information about their status. This letter also recommends that USCIS publish guidance to accommodate dependents who may have aged out and provide avenues for people who filed defensive applications to avoid having to refile their asylum application and allow them to continue using their work authorization secured through their pending status.

The letter is supported by the American Immigration Lawyers Association, National Immigration Project of the National Lawyers Guild, National Immigrant Justice Center, National Immigration Law Center (NILC), Human Rights First, Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project, National Immigration Litigation Alliance, American Friends Service Committee, U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, HIAS, Catholic Charities Community Services - New York, Center for Gender & Refugee Studies, Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network, Communities United for Status & Protection (CUSP), Unitarian Universalist Service Committee, Haitian Bridge Alliance, Catholic Migration Services, Immigrant Defenders Law Center, Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project (ASAP), HIAS Pennsylvania, Migrant Center for Human Rights, Florence Immigrant & Refugee Rights Project, the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP), Refugees International, Alianza Americas, Westchester Jewish Coalition for Immigration, Inc., Oasis Legal Services, and African Human Rights Coalition.

""Dismissals dating back to April of this year left asylum seekers with outstanding questions that only USCIS can answer,"" said Jeremy McKinney, President of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. ""These dismissals create uncertainty for asylum seekers and their immigration attorneys, uncertainty that could be resolved through USCIS issuing this long-awaited guidance.""

""While we welcome Immigration and Customs Enforcement exercising discretion in removal proceedings, asylum seekers can't make informed decisions about how to move forward with their cases without understanding how USCIS will process their cases,"" said Victoria Neilson, National Immigration Project of NLG's Supervising Attorney. ""We hope that this advocacy effort will lead to much-needed clarity from USCIS.""

In addition to Bonamici, the letter was signed by Representatives Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Nanette Barragán (D-CA), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), André Carson (D-IN), Judy Chu (D-CA), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Jesús ""Chuy"" García (D-IL), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX), Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ), Henry ""Hank"" Johnson (D-GA), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), James McGovern (D-MA), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Dean Phillips (D-MN), Linda Sánchez (D-CA), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), and Juan Vargas (D-CA).

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

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/oregon-delegation-announces-484m-help-oregonians-pay-heating-costs-winter,Oregon Delegation Announces $48.4M to Help Oregonians Pay Heating Costs this Winter,2022-11-03,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"[BEAVERTON, OR]: Today Representatives Suzanne Bonamici, Peter DeFazio, and Earl Blumenauer, along with Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, announced that Oregon was awarded $48.4 million in funding to help low-income families and individuals pay for home heating costs this winter and cover unpaid utility bills.

The funding will be delivered through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance program (LIHEAP), and includes support from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and extra funding passed by Congress to address rising energy costs in 2023.

In addition to covering home heating costs and unpaid utility bills, the funds awarded to Oregon will help families make cost-effective home energy repairs to lower their heating and cooling bills.

""Keeping homes warm in the winter is essential to the well-being of Oregonians,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""Many prices have increased and so has financial pressure for many families and individuals. I am grateful that Oregon will receive extra funding to help low-income households cover energy costs. No one should have to choose between paying their utility bill and other necessities like food or rent.""

""It is unconscionable that families should be forced to ration their essential utilities, especially during seasons of extreme heat or cold,"" said Congressman Peter DeFazio. ""This funding, made possible in part by my bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, will help Oregon families mitigate rising costs and ensure their homes and families are protected this winter.""

""Low-income energy and heating assistance funding is vital for thousands of Oregonians,"" said Congressman Earl Blumenauer.""The Biden Administration understands this. For people who are struggling with higher prices for gas and groceries, having extra help with winter heating bills this year is crucial. I appreciate the timely delivery of these funds so that families can keep their lights on and homes warm this winter.""

""With snow already having fallen here in parts of Oregon and a cold snap in the forecast, this extra help for vulnerable Oregonians to cover home heating costs is timely and important,"" said Senator Ron Wyden. ""I'm gratified our state has secured this assistance for Oregonians walking an economic tightrope. And I'll keep battling to provide all the assistance that low-income Oregon households need to stay safe this winter throughout our state.""

""As so many Oregonians face rising costs for basic goods and tighter household budgets, it's critical that we ensure everyone is able to keep their heating on this winter,"" said Senator Jeff Merkley. ""This crucial federal funding for energy and heating assistance will help give households across Oregon the financial support they need to stay warm and safe in the cold months ahead.""

Individuals interested in applying for energy assistance can visit energyhelp.us or call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) hotline toll-free at: 1-866-674-6327.

A fact sheet about 2023 LIHEAP funds for Oregon from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) can be found here.

Throughout the pandemic, Bonamici led her colleagues in efforts to strengthen LIHEAP to prevent debts from piling up during the public health crisis. Bonamici also serves as Chair of the Civil Rights and Human Services Subcommittee, which has jurisdiction over LIHEAP.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-announces-5-million-epa-s-clean-school-bus-program,Biden-Harris Administration Announces $5 Million from EPA’s Clean School Bus Program for Oregon School Districts,2022-10-26,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Seattle (October 26, 2022) — Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced the Fiscal Year 2022 recipients of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Clean School Bus Program rebate competition, awarding nearly $5 million from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to two school districts in Oregon. The grants will help school districts purchase over 14 clean school buses that will accelerate the transition to zero emissions vehicles and produce cleaner air in and around schools and communities.

Vice President Kamala Harris and EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan will join schoolchildren, district leaders and community members in Seattle, Washington, later today to make the announcement and highlight how it will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save schools money, and better protect children's health. The investment will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs.

""President Biden's historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is accelerating our nation's transition to electric and low-emission school buses while ensuring a brighter, healthier future for our children,"" said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. ""As many as 25 million children rely on the bus to get to school each day. Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, we are making an unprecedented investment in our children's health, especially those in communities overburdened by air pollution. This is just the beginning of our work to build a healthier future, reduce climate pollution, and ensure the clean, breathable air that all our children deserve.""

""More electric school buses will mean healthier students, healthier air, and a healthier planet,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""Reducing students' exposure to harmful carbon emissions during their trip to school is an important step toward developing healthier learning environments, lowering chronic absenteeism, and improving equity. I'm excited that the Banks School District will be able to participate in the transition to clean energy by upgrading their bus fleet with funds from the Clean School Bus Rebate program in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.""

""Every child should be able to travel to and from school without being exposed to dangerous toxins. By curbing the dangerous pollution emitted by existing school bus fleets, we will not only be supporting our students, but also helping to address climate chaos, giving them a brighter future,"" said Senator Jeff Merkley. ""I am happy kids in Banks and Prospect will be getting a cleaner and safer way to school.""

""No child riding a school bus should be forced to breathe polluted air on their way to and from school,"" said Senator Ron Wyden. ""The Clean School Bus Rebates Program adds up to cleaner air for children and their communities, lower costs for school districts, and an investment in the climate fight -- and I'm glad to see kids in Prospect and Banks will be among the first to benefit from this innovative program.""

""Protecting children's health is one of EPA's most important responsibilities,"" said EPA Region 10 Administrator Casey Sixkiller. ""Transitioning to electric school buses ensures the air children breathe at home, to and from school, and outdoors is clean. EPA is committed to reducing emissions and improving air quality for Oregon's future generations.""

Today's announcement includes funding for buses and infrastructure for districts in Banks and Prospect, in Oregon. Banks School District will receive $4,345,000 in funding for 11 electric school buses. Prospect School District will receive $1,185,000 in funding for three electric school buses.

In May, EPA announced the availability of $500 million for its Clean School Bus Program. Given overwhelming demand from school districts across the country, including in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded to $965 million. The rebate application period closed in August with an outstanding response from school districts seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses across the country.

At this time, the agency has selected 389 applications totaling $913 million to support the purchase of 2,463 buses, 95% of which will be electric. EPA will distribute awards to school districts in all 50 states, Washington D.C., along with several federally recognized Tribes and U.S. territories. School districts identified as priority areas serving low-income, rural, and, or Tribal students make up 99% of the projects that were selected. More applications are under review, and the agency plans to select more to reach the full $965 million in the coming weeks.

Those school districts who received an award can now proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. EPA is also partnering with the U.S. Department of Energy and Department of Transportation to provide school districts with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.

These awards are the first $1 billion of a five-year, $5 billion program created by President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. EPA is also designing the next rounds of program funding to launch in the coming months, which will include an ambitious grant competition. Through future rounds of funding, EPA will make available another $1 billion for clean school buses in Fiscal Year 2023. EPA encourages school districts not selected in the first round of rebates – and those that did not apply this funding cycle – to participate in future rounds.

About the Clean School Bus Rebate Program

The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts and produce cleaner air. Diesel air pollution is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students' health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Phasing out these diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day. The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The program will also save school districts money as they upgrade school bus fleets, replacing older, heavily polluting buses with brand new clean school buses, while freeing up needed resources for schools.

The 2022 Clean School Bus Rebates prioritize low-income, rural, and Tribal communities. The vast majority of applicants met the priority definition under the 2022 Clean School Bus Rebates criteria, resulting in access to more funds for buses and electric vehicle infrastructure for schools in areas that need them the most. The program also delivers on President Biden's Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.

View the full list of Clean School Bus award recipients here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-delbene-introduce-legislation-support-veteran-employment-manufacturing,"Bonamici, DelBene Introduce Legislation to Support Veteran Employment in Manufacturing",2022-10-21,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KIRKLAND, WA – Today, Congresswomen Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) introduced legislation to expand veterans' access to long-term, good-paying manufacturing jobs by boosting training for those reentering the civilian workforce from military service.

The Manufacturing Jobs for Veterans Act of 2022 would provide $50 million in U.S. Department of Labor grants to three states to establish veterans manufacturing employment pilot programs to support covered trainings and apprenticeships from employers and labor-management organizations for veterans.

""Our veterans represent a vital pipeline of skilled, capable workers, yet far too many are unable to find work after returning to civilian life. As long as there are veterans without work, Congress must do more,"" DelBene said. ""The Manufacturing Jobs for Veterans Act will honor veterans' service to our nation by providing them with the training to leverage their talents to find long-term, good-paying manufacturing jobs.""

""Quality manufacturing jobs and apprenticeships can change lives and put families on a path to long-term financial security,"" said Bonamici. ""I'm pleased to join Congresswoman DelBene in leading legislation to make these opportunities available to more veterans as they further their careers.""

While the veteran unemployment rate has gone down from 12.1% at the peak of the pandemic, over 61% of veterans are overqualified for their current jobs given their military-learned skills and military service experiences.

The discrepancy in unemployment between states is also particularly troubling. Veteran employment rates can be as low as 1.6 percent in some states and 7.6 percent in others. Across all age groups, more than 380,000 unemployed veterans were struggling to find work in 2021.

At the same time, there are at least 790,000 American manufacturing job openings each month. Manufacturers predict up to 2 million unfilled positions in the next decade, largely due to a skills gap in advanced manufacturing.

This legislation would expand access to skills training for U.S. veterans in manufacturing career pathways, ensure veterans have the tools needed to translate their military skills to the civilian workforce, and encourage manufacturers to recruit, hire, and train our nation's returning heroes.

The bill is cosponsored by Representatives Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Eric Swalwell (CA-15), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At-Large) Robin Kelly (IL-02), Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Cheri Bustos (IL-17), Ron Kind (WI-03), Scott Peters (CA-52), Joe Morelle (NY-25), Ann McLane Kuster (NH-02), and Tony Cardenas (CA-29).

The legislation is also supported by the American Legion.

A summary of the Manufacturing Jobs for Veterans Act of 2022 can be found here and the bill text is available here.

###

KIRKLAND, WA – Today, Congresswomen Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) introduced legislation to expand veterans' access to long-term, good-paying manufacturing jobs by boosting training for those reentering the civilian workforce from military service.

The Manufacturing Jobs for Veterans Act of 2022 would provide $50 million in U.S. Department of Labor grants to three states to establish veterans manufacturing employment pilot programs to support covered trainings and apprenticeships from employers and labor-management organizations for veterans.

""Our veterans represent a vital pipeline of skilled, capable workers, yet far too many are unable to find work after returning to civilian life. As long as there are veterans without work, Congress must do more,"" DelBene said. ""The Manufacturing Jobs for Veterans Act will honor veterans' service to our nation by providing them with the training to leverage their talents to find long-term, good-paying manufacturing jobs.""

""Quality manufacturing jobs and apprenticeships can change lives and put families on a path to long-term financial security,"" said Bonamici. ""I'm pleased to join Congresswoman DelBene in leading legislation to make these opportunities available to more veterans as they further their careers.""

While the veteran unemployment rate has gone down from 12.1% at the peak of the pandemic, over 61% of veterans are overqualified for their current jobs given their military-learned skills and military service experiences.

The discrepancy in unemployment between states is also particularly troubling. Veteran employment rates can be as low as 1.6 percent in some states and 7.6 percent in others. Across all age groups, more than 380,000 unemployed veterans were struggling to find work in 2021.

At the same time, there are at least 790,000 American manufacturing job openings each month. Manufacturers predict up to 2 million unfilled positions in the next decade, largely due to a skills gap in advanced manufacturing.

This legislation would expand access to skills training for U.S. veterans in manufacturing career pathways, ensure veterans have the tools needed to translate their military skills to the civilian workforce, and encourage manufacturers to recruit, hire, and train our nation's returning heroes.

The bill is cosponsored by Representatives Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Eric Swalwell (CA-15), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At-Large) Robin Kelly (IL-02), Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Cheri Bustos (IL-17), Ron Kind (WI-03), Scott Peters (CA-52), Joe Morelle (NY-25), Ann McLane Kuster (NH-02), and Tony Cardenas (CA-29).

The legislation is also supported by the American Legion.

A summary of the Manufacturing Jobs for Veterans Act of 2022 can be found here and the bill text is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-introduces-legislation-promote-growth-arts-organizations-bolster,"Bonamici Introduces Legislation to Promote Growth of Arts Organizations, Bolster Creative Economy",2022-10-14,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [10/14/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) introduced legislation to help arts organizations, local arts agencies, and museums expand their reach and improve facilities.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, arts organizations and the facilities that house their programming and exhibitions experienced catastrophic declines in revenues and attendance, which affected their ability to retain employees and produce art. The Capital, Repairs, and Employment for Art Talent to Improve Visibility Everywhere (CREATIVE) Act will help arts organizations continue to recover by providing funding to build new facilities, improve existing facilities, hire staff, and produce art.

""The arts are an integral part of our economy, help us better understand the world around us, and fuel authentic and meaningful community-building,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""Arts organizations were hit hard by the pandemic, and many are still struggling to rebuild. The CREATIVE Act will provide funding these important organizations need to restore their programming and create jobs in the creative sector.""

The legislation has been endorsed by: Americans for the Arts, Grantmakers in the Arts, Cultural Advocacy Coalition of Oregon, National Association for Music Education (NAfME), National Association of Music Merchants, American Alliance of Museums, WESTAF, Americans for the Arts Action Fund, National Performance Network, Arts North Carolina, National Art Education Association (NAEA), Association of Art Museum Directors, ArtPride New Jersey, Create CA, Artrain, Creative Washtenaw, Miracle Theatre Group, Buchanan Center for the Arts, Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation (OPAC), New Mexico Community Arts Network dba Creative New Mexico, Another Bullwinkel Show, City of Mesa, AZ, Vermont Arts Council, Nebraskans for the Arts, Missouri Alliance for Arts Education, and the Recording Academy.

""It is essential that community voice informs the development of cultural facilities,"" said Eddie Torres, President and CEO, Grantmakers in the Arts. ""It is equally important that support for facilities includes support for maintenance, repair and for the people who work in cultural facilities. Representative Bonamici's proposed legislation aims to give community members agency and to ensure that they are paid as workers.""

""I am very pleased that the CREATIVE Act has been introduced. This key legislation prioritizes the infrastructure needs for cultural facilities that uplift arts and culture in BIPOC, rural, and underserved groups,"" said Nolen V. Bivens, President and CEO of Americans for the Arts. ""This vital capital for infrastructure supports the cultural and educational power of the arts and a multitude of programs across the nation and broadens access to the arts and arts education, especially at the community level. The CREATIVE Act builds on the NEA's vital support for local arts agencies and arts organizations by expanding their grantmaking capacity and comes at a critical time when our creative sector and artists are rebounding from the devastating effects of the pandemic. I thank Representative Bonamici – she is a true and tireless champion for the arts and arts education.""

The CREATIVE Act builds on the National Endowment for the Arts' (NEA) critical support for local arts agencies (LAAs) and arts organizations by expanding their grantmaking capacity. Specifically, it would:

Expand Access to Capital for Facilities: Provides LAAs, museums, and 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organizations with the eligibility to apply for and receive one of three grants of up to $5 million from a newly authorized, $100 million NEA program to construct and acquire new facilities, maintain and improve existing facilities, or hire staff or produce art at existing facilities;

Seek Community Input: Requires eligible entities to include in their application information about how the eligible entity's arts programs will benefit the community served by the eligible entity, how the entity will solicit input from diverse stakeholders, and how the entity will continue to operate its facility once grant funds have expired;

Reach Underserved Communities: Assigns grant priority based on factors such as having limited accessibility to the arts, expressing a desire to produce art that is underrepresented in popular culture, being located in a rural community, having limited financial means to self-fund such projects, and proposing to further art education for the population served by the eligible entity;

Create Strong Guardrails: Promotes accountability for grant funds by instituting reporting requirements and a procedure for returning unused or misspent funds to the Chairperson of the NEA; and

Make Rural Outreach a Priority: Directs the Chairperson of the NEA to reserve at least 20 percent of total grant funds for distribution to eligible entities located in rural communities.

A fact sheet can be found here, and the full text can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-pocan-davids-introduce-bill-support-lgbtqi-seniors-rural-areas,"Bonamici, Pocan, Davids Introduce Bill to Support LGBTQI+ Seniors in Rural Areas",2022-10-11,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [10/11/22] – Today Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Congressman Mark Pocan (D-WI), and Congresswoman Sharice Davids (D-KS) introduced legislation to increase access to needed services and resources for LGBTQI+ seniors who live in rural areas.

The Elder Pride Act would bolster the capacity and ability of Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) located in rural communities to better serve and support LGBTQI+ seniors. LGBTQI+ older adults require affirming care, services, and supports that are often underfunded and scarce in many parts of the country. National surveys show that between 2.9 million and 3.8 million LGBTQI+ people live in rural American communities.

""LGBTQI+ seniors should be able to access services and care that meets their unique needs, regardless of where they live,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, Chair of the Equality Caucus' LGBTQ+ Aging Issues Task Force.""Those who live in rural areas frequently face increased barriers, which Congress can break down. The Elder Pride Act will increase resources for programs and services that will improve the lives of LGBTQI+ elders.""

""Rural LGBTQI+ seniors have been lacking access to necessary services and care for too long,"" saidRep. Pocan, Co-Chair of the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus. ""The Elder Pride Act creates opportunities for LGBTQ+ seniors in rural communities, benefiting everyone in the region. I look forward to advancing this important legislation.""

""Many of our LGBTQ+ elders fought tirelessly for equality in a world that refused to accept their identity,"" said Congresswoman Sharice Davids. ""While they overcame tremendous odds to give future generations the rights they deserve, our elders, particularly those in rural communities, continue to face discrimination when accessing long-term care and healthcare. I am proud to support the Elder Pride Act because who you are and who you love should never increase your risk for isolation, poverty, and poor health outcomes as you age.""

The legislation is endorsed by SAGE, National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs, interACT, MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, AIDS United, National Minority AIDS Council, National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors, National Coalition of STD Directors, and Justice in Aging.

""SAGE applauds Representative Bonamici for her continued leadership on behalf of LGBTQ+ elders and we are proud to endorse the Elder Pride Act,"" said SAGE CEO Michael Adams. ""Nearly 30% of LGBTQ+ elders live in rural areas and most of them are unable to access the care and services they need. The Elder Pride Act would help LGBTQ+ elders, who have endured unique struggles due to decades of discrimination, get the resources they need to thrive.""

""The National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs (NANASP) strongly supports the Elder Pride Act. In this era of promoting health equity for all older adults, we believe it is important that we all work to provide greater access to services which help LGBTQI older adults maintain their independence and dignity,"" said Bob Blancato, Executive Director of NANASP.

The bill is also cosponsored by Reps. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), John Larson (D-CT), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Mondaire Jones (D-NY), and Alan Lowenthal (D-CA).

The Elder Pride Act complements the Older American Act, which was updated under Bonamici's leadership, by establishing a rural grant program designed to fund care and services for LGBTQI+ seniors. The grant would also support programs that:

• provide services such as cultural competency training for service providers;

• develop modes of connection between LGBTQI+ older adults and local service providers and community organizations;

• expand the use of nondiscrimination policies and community spaces for older adults who are members of the LGBTQI+ community or another protected class; and,

• disseminate resources on sexual health and aging for senior service providers.

A fact sheet on the legislation can be found here, and the full text can be found here.

During Pride month this year, Bonamici led the introduction of the Ruthie and Connie LGBTQ Elder Americans Act. This bill is named to honor LGBTQ+ Activists Ruthie Berman and Connie Kurtz, and would amend the Older Americans Act to better care for older LGBTQI+ Americans. As Chair of the Civil Rights and Human Services Subcommittee, Bonamici has also been a leader in efforts to pass legislation to protect the LGBTQ community against discrimination in housing, access to credit, and other services. Bonamici is also a Vice Chair of the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus and is the new Chair of the LGBTQ+ Aging Issues Task Force.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/equality-caucus-announces-congresswoman-suzanne-bonamici-new-chair-lgbtq-aging,Equality Caucus Announces Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici as New Chair of the LGBTQ+ Aging Issues Task Force,2022-09-30,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus announced the appointment of Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-1) as the new Chair of its LGBTQ+ Aging Issues Task Force, beginning October 1. Congresswoman Bonamici is a Vice Chair of the Equality Caucus and a longtime advocate for LGBTQ+ seniors. Equality Caucus Vice Chair Congressman Ted Deutch (FL-22) is the current Chair of the LGBTQ+ Aging Issues Task Force, a role he has served in since the task force's founding. Today is Congressman Deutch's last day in Congress.

""First, I would like to recognize the extraordinary work and advocacy of my colleague Congressman Ted Deutch. He has long served on the Equality Caucus as a fierce ally and advocate for LGBTQ+ people and has been a leader in addressing issues impacting LGBTQ+ seniors. In his six years as Chair of our LGBTQ+ Aging Issues Task Force, he has spearheaded numerous initiatives to ensure LGBTQ+ older adults can live openly and have the support they need. The Caucus wishes him all the best in the future as he begins this next professional chapter,""said Congressman David N. Cicilline (RI-01), Chair of the Equality Caucus. ""We are thrilled to welcome Congresswoman Bonamici as the new Chair of our LGBTQ+ Aging Issues Task Force. Congresswoman Bonamici has been a champion for LGBTQ+ older adults, including as the lead sponsor of the Ruthie and Connie LGBTQ Elder Americans Act. She has also been a dedicated member of the Equality Caucus as one of our Vice Chairs. She has been a tremendous ally to our community, and we are very proud to welcome her to this new role.""

""Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici is a champion for the LGBTQ+ senior community, and it has been a privilege to partner with her on critical legislation to address this population's needs,"" said Congressman Deutch. ""Our friend and advocate Ruthie Berman has often said that she is both proud of, and concerned for, her community. Fortunately, the LGBTQ+ Aging Issues Task Force could not be in better hands, and I look forward to seeing the progress made under her leadership in the years to come.""

""Thank you to the Equality Caucus for selecting me to be the new Chair of the LGBTQ+ Aging Issues Task Force; it is an honor,"" said Congresswoman Bonamici. ""All seniors deserve to age with dignity, regardless of who they are or who they love. The outgoing Chair Ted Deutch and I have worked together on legislation to help LGBTQ+ seniors access care and services, and I thank him for his years of service as an advocate for equitable aging. I'm committed to helping LGBTQ+ seniors overcome the barriers that too many still face when trying to access programs and services that are important to wellbeing.""

Founded in 2008, the mission of the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus is to promote equality for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The Caucus, which is led by the nine openly LGBTQ+ members of the House of Representatives, is strongly committed to achieving the full enjoyment of human rights for LGBTQ+ people in the U.S. and around the world.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-bonamici-price-pingree-applaud-reinstatement-president-s-committee-arts,"Reps. Bonamici, Price, Pingree Applaud the Reinstatement of the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities",2022-09-30,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC (September 30, 2022) —Today, Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Congressman David Price (D-NC), and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME) released the following statement on President Joe Biden's Executive Order reinstating the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities (PCAH). This Executive Order reverses the actions of President Trump in 2017, who refused to renew PCAH, dissolving the Committee after 35 years. Prior to the abrupt dissolution, all committee members had resigned following President Trump's public support of white supremacist rallies in Charlottesville, Virginia.

""The arts and humanities inspire creativity and critical thinking, bring people and communities together, and unlock new opportunities,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, Chair of the Education and Labor Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Human Services and Co-Chair of the STEAM Caucus. ""I am grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration for reinstating the President's Committee on Arts and the Humanities to elevate the importance of these fields and to recognize the essential contributions of artists, musicians, authors, educators, and more.""

""The arts and humanities build the patchwork of our country's narrative, providing a context for current policy debates, educating younger generations, and helping us understand our place in the world,"" said Congressman David Price, Chair of the House Congressional Humanities Caucus. ""I am thrilled that the Biden Administration recognizes the value of nurturing these notable disciplines that shape our cultural and intellectual lives. I look forward to seeing PCAH continue its mission in educating future generations, cultivating creativity, and enriching our society.""

""The arts and humanities power our economy, support a well-rounded education, and revitalize communities small and large across the United States. I'm grateful that President Biden acted on our call to reinstate the President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities, which was established by President Reagan in 1982 and supported by executives of political parties until 2017. This vital committee will convene leaders who are thinking big about the future of creativity and culture and reassert the importance of the arts and humanities at the highest levels of government,"" said Congresswoman Chellie Pingree, Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Arts Caucus and Chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior and the Environment, which oversees funding for the National Endowments for the Arts and the Humanities.

Established in 1982, the President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities (PCAH) is an advisory committee to the White House and the three main cultural agencies: the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. PCAH addresses policy questions, initiates public and private partnerships, and recognizes excellence in the arts and humanities field.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-bonamici-backed-legislation-improve-student-mental-health,House Passes Bonamici-Backed Legislation to Improve Student Mental Health,2022-09-29,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [09/29/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) helped the House pass legislation that will support and improve student mental health.

The Mental Health Matters Act will build a pipeline of school-based mental health service providers and invest in Head Start to address the mental and behavioral health of young children and support staff wellness. The legislation also includes Bonamici's bipartisan, bicameral RISE Act, which would allow college students to use existing documentation of a disability when seeking accommodations on campus, saving families hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

""Our nation's students continue to face significant and serious challenges to their social, emotional, and mental health as they return to school – we must meet them where they are by providing evidence-based treatment and support so they can learn and thrive,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""This timely legislation provides needed resources and will greatly improve the behavioral health of children and school staff.

""I'm grateful that the legislation includes provisions I wrote to support students with disabilities beyond their high school education. Students with disabilities face many barriers to earning a degree or credential after high school. Without the proper accommodations, students with disabilities complete college at a lower rate than their peers. My bipartisan RISE Act aims to provide students with disabilities with affirmation, comfort, and peace of mind during their transition from high school to college by allowing college students to use existing documentation of a disability. This action alone will save families hundreds – even thousands – of dollars.""

Bonamici spoke in support of the legislation on the House floor. The video can be viewed here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-blumenauer-and-bonamici-announce-12-million-redevelop-sw,Representatives Blumenauer and Bonamici Announce $1.2 Million to Redevelop SW Portland’s Pride Plaza,2022-09-28,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"PORTLAND, OR – Today, Congressman Earl Blumenauer (OR-03) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) announced a $1.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration to the City of Portland for the redevelopment of Pride Plaza.

The funding will support infrastructure and beautification upgrades to a significant anchor for pedestrian travel through downtown. These improvements, at the junction of SW Harvey Milk Street and West Burnside, between SW 12th Avenue and SW 10th Avenue, are the first stage of the larger plan to redevelop O'Bryant Square and the surrounding area. The area is notably part of the developing Green Loop, a 6-mile pedestrian corridor connecting people throughout the heart of the city. The City of Portland and its partners have designed Pride Plaza as an LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhood gathering space with street art, public seating, community activities, and expanded space for businesses into the street.

""I deeply appreciate the Biden Administration's support for the redevelopment of SW Portland's Pride Plaza. This project is a win for making Portland safer and more livable for people living and working downtown, as well as visitors,"" said Congressman Blumenauer, ""It will also support small businesses which are still recovering from the pandemic. This grant ties the pieces together to accelerate downtown's revitalization.""

""I am grateful that Pride Plaza will receive this significant funding from the Biden-Harris Administration to revitalize a central meeting spot in Portland,"" said Congresswoman Bonamici. ""This investment will help create a more welcoming space for the people of Portland and others who visit the area. I look forward to the project's completion and will continue advocating for the resources our community needs to help our city and its people and businesses thrive.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-larson-praise-senate-passage-pro-climate-kigali-treaty-amendment,"Bonamici, Larson Praise Senate Passage of Pro-Climate Kigali Treaty Amendment",2022-09-23,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - Today, Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01) and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) released the below statements following the Senate passage of an amendment to the Montreal Protocol that will limit emission of harmful chemicals. Reps. Larson and Bonamici worked to ensure all future amendments to certain multilateral environmental agreements, including the Montreal Protocol, would be enforceable under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) in 2019.

""The Senate's overdue approval of the Kigali Amendment is good news in our fight for clean air and against climate change,"" said Bonamici. ""As a leader on the USMCA Working Group, I advocated for the Kigali Amendment to be included in USMCA because it is an important step to reduce emissions. This amendment reflects the important work Congressman Larson and I did to improve the environment provisions in the trade agreement. I'm committed to building on this significant action as we work to decarbonize every sector of our economy and reach net-zero emissions.""

""The passage of the Kigali Amendment is another step forward in our efforts to help the environment with actions and not just words,"" said Larson. ""During our time on the environment subgroup of the Houses Democrats' Trade Working Group for the USMCA, Rep. Bonamici and I fought to ensure the USMCA could continue to grow and remain relevant along with our future environmental obligations. Today is an example of that work in action. I look forward to working with the Administration to ensure all three countries uphold their commitment to the environment.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-introduces-resolution-recognize-national-workforce-development-month,Bonamici Introduces Resolution to Recognize National Workforce Development Month,2022-09-22,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON DC [9/22/2022] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and 13 co-sponsors introduced a resolution to designate September 2022 as National Workforce Development Month.

Workforce development is broadly defined as the education, training, and career advancement of the workforce in the United States and is crucial to maintaining a competitive edge in the global economy.

""Workforce development programs have the power to change lives,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""I've spoken with several people in Oregon who told me that workforce programs improved their lives and the lives of their children. Federal workforce programs, like those authorized in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), provide a path to good-paying jobs and fuel economic growth. Recent federal investments in semiconductor manufacturing, infrastructure, and green energy will create millions of new jobs, and we need a skilled workforce to fill those positions. I'm glad to lead my colleagues in recognizing the importance of workforce development programs in preparing our country for the economy of today and tomorrow.""

Workforce development programs facilitated through WIOA are projected to serve more than 5 million young people and adults in 2022 alone. Other federal laws, including the Wagner-Peyser Act and the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, serve a combined 15 million current and future workers across the nation.

""Jobs that require skills training are the backbone of our economy,"" said Andy Van Kleunen, CEO, National Skills Coalition. ""The recognition of National Workforce Development Month helps demonstrate a national commitment to inclusive, high-quality skills training so that more people have access to a better life, and more local businesses see sustained growth. It also helps recognize the impact that workforce programs have on the lives of millions of Americans.""

This resolution describes the benefits of intersectoral collaboration and a multitiered public sector approach to skills training and development, cites statistics about the prevalence and reach of workforce development programs authorized under federal law, and expresses the intent of the House of Representatives to support federal initiatives to promote workforce development.

An identical resolution has already passed the Senate.

""From clean energy and advanced manufacturing to sustainable agriculture and innovative technology, we need to ensure that the American workforce is ready to meet the challenges of the 21st century economy,"" said Senator Feinstein. ""Our resolution recognizes the vital role workforce development plays in growing America's next generation of workers as well as supporting the advancement of current professionals looking for new employment opportunities.""

The full text of the resolution can be read here.

In the House, it was co-sponsored by: Representative Lucy McBath (GA), Representative Frederica Wilson (FL), Representative Tony Cardenas (CA), Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Dwight Evans (PA), Marie Newman (IL), Kathy Manning (NC), Troy Carter (LA), Thomas Suozzi (NY), Susie Lee (NV), Dina Titus (NV), Adam Smith (WA), and Tom O'Halleran (AZ).

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-bonamici-katko-sen-murphy-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-resolution,"Reps. Bonamici, Katko, Sen. Murphy Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Resolution to Recognize Malnutrition Awareness Week",2022-09-21,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON DC [9/21/2022] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Congressman John Katko (R-NY), and Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) introduced a resolution to designate the week of September 19, 2022, as Malnutrition Awareness Week. The resolution recognizes the importance of federal nutrition programs in combatting malnutrition and hunger.

""No one in our country should go hungry, but millions of Americans are struggling with malnutrition and hunger,"" said Congresswoman Bonamici. ""Too often the most vulnerable members of our communities are stuck in a cycle of poverty and nutritional disparities. Over the years programs like the Older Americans Act (OAA), Meals on Wheels, SNAP, and school nutrition programs have helped feed those who need assistance accessing healthy foods. Unfortunately, malnutrition and food insecurity still affect many, especially seniors; Black, Indigenous, and people of color; and low-income children and families. This Malnutrition Awareness Week, we reaffirm our commitment to ending hunger so everyone has access to the nutrition they need to succeed.""

""I am proud to join my colleagues in recognizing Malnutrition Awareness Week,"" said Congressman Katko. ""According to the Department of Agriculture, in 2021, 33.8 million Americans lived in households that were considered food-insecure. With far too many families still struggling with food insecurity due to the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is increasingly important that we raise awareness surrounding malnutrition and address its root causes. Throughout my time in Congress, I have worked to support crucial federal nutrition programs that thousands of Central New Yorkers rely on, such as SNAP and Meals on Wheels, and I am glad to join Representative Bonamici in this bipartisan effort to call for further action to combat food insecurity.""

""Malnutrition has serious implications for health outcomes, and it's an issue that disproportionately impacts communities of color and the most vulnerable among us – seniors and kids,"" said Senator Murphy. ""Increasing access to healthy, affordable food through federal nutrition programs is critical to reducing malnutrition and improving quality of life. I'm proud to introduce this resolution to bring awareness to this serious problem and highlight those working to address it.""

Federal nutrition programs are critical to the health and well-being of children and older adults. According to 2020 data, as many as half of older adults living in the United States are malnourished or at risk for malnutrition. OAA nutrition programs provide home-delivered and congregate meal programs for older adults, and continue to significantly help seniors access nutritious meals. The resolution also recognizes the need for additional research at the National Institutes of Health and screening by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to better understand how malnutrition is affecting Americans.

""Almost half of all older adults are at risk of becoming or are already malnourished. This widespread and too often hidden problem not only carries a high personal cost for the millions who struggle but also an economic one that is estimated to cost our country $51 billion annually,"" said Ellie Hollander, President and CEO, Meals on Wheels America. ""We commend Congresswoman Bonamici and Congressman Katko for their bipartisan leadership in spotlighting this growing issue and how greater investments in the Older Americans Act Nutrition Program is a key part of the solution to ensure that malnourished and hungry seniors get the nutritious meals they need at home or in group dining centers.""

""I would like to thank Congresswomen Bonamici for recognizing Malnutrition Awareness Week,"" said Ryan T. Hurt, MD, PhD, President of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN). ""Malnutrition Awareness Week is our annual campaign to raise awareness of malnutrition and to educate healthcare professionals and consumers on intervention and treatment. It was created in 2012 when ASPEN recognized the need for more nutrition education. This year, we are excited to celebrate our 10-year anniversary. This resolution is important and helps further the goal of raising awareness of this critical issue.

""The Defeat Malnutrition Today coalition strongly endorses the House resolution in support of Malnutrition Awareness Week and commends Reps. Bonamici and Katko for sponsoring the resolution"" said Bob Blancato, National Coordinator of the Defeat Malnutrition Today coalition. This resolution is very timely in light of a first-ever decision by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to include a composite malnutrition quality measure in its inpatient hospital rule. This resolution also immediately precedes the September 28, 2022 White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health, where preventing malnutrition will be seen as key to the White House's goal to improve nutrition by 2030.""

This resolution is endorsed by Defeat Malnutrition Today, Meals on Wheels America, Food Research and Action Center, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, LeadingAge, American Heart Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN), National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs, National Council on Aging, USAging, Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy & Action, National WIC Association, and MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger

Cosponsors: Don Bacon (R-NE), Sanford Bishop, Jr. (D-GA), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), J. Luis Correa (D-CA), Jim Costa (D-CA), Ted Deutch (D-FL), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ), Jahana Hayes (D-CT), Al Lawson (D-FL), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), Susie Lee (D-NV), Carolyn Maloney (D-NY), Jim McGovern (D-MA), Grace Meng (D-NY), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Chris Pappas (D-NH), Darren Soto (D-FL), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ).

The text of the resolution can be viewed here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-introduces-bill-prevent-unintended-pregnancies-and-increase-likelihood,Bonamici Introduces Bill To Prevent Unintended Pregnancies and Increase Likelihood of Healthy Pregnancies,2022-09-15,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [09/15/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) introduced legislation to promote pregnancy intention screenings. These screenings increase conversations between patients and health care providers about whether the patient intends to become pregnant, helping people access the care they need to prevent unintended pregnancies and improve the likelihood of healthy pregnancies.

The Enhancing Questions to Understand Intentions for Pregnancy (EQUIP) Act would create a pilot program at the Centers for Disease Control to scale up the adoption of evidence-based initiatives that allow health care and social service providers to routinely screen people of child-bearing age about their pregnancy plans.

Bonamici crafted this legislation based on successful initiatives like One Key Question®, a transformative approach to help health and social services providers start a conversation with patients about their pregnancy desires by routinely asking ""Would you like to become pregnant in the next year?"" Follow-up counseling is patient-centered and tailored appropriately based on a patient's desire to become pregnant, desire to avoid becoming pregnant, or ambivalence about pregnancy in the next year of their life. This question then results in patients receiving information about contraception or pre-natal care, depending on the patient's unique situation. The model began in Oregon and is now being implemented in states across the country, with support from Power to Decide.

""The decision about whether or when to have a child is intensely personal and shapes lifelong reproductive health and economic well-being,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""Following the disastrous Dobbs decision, it is more important than ever for people to have access to reproductive health care that meets their needs and goals. The EQUIP Act will facilitate important conversations between patients and the providers they trust, empowering people to prevent unintended pregnancies and access care that improves the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy.""

""At Power to Decide, we believe all people should have access to the information, services and support they need to make their own decisions when it comes to their sexual and reproductive health,"" said Power to Decide CEO Raegan McDonald-Mosley, MD, MPH. ""We also know that the ability to plan pregnancies is directly linked to a long list of benefits – not only healthier pregnancies, but also healthier children, families and communities. Unfortunately, longstanding racial and economic barriers have limited access to quality and person-centered reproductive care for far too many people. This is why we are proud to support the EQUIP Act, which would support and expand efforts to ensure that all people have the power to decide for themselves if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.""

A summary of the bill can be found here, and the bill text is available here.

The EQUIP Act is endorsed by: Power to Decide, American Nurses Association, National Council of Jewish Women, American College of Nurse-Midwives, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, and Physicians for Reproductive Health.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-department-commerce-invests-approximately-414-million-boost-forest-products,U.S. Department of Commerce Invests Approximately $41.4 Million to Boost Forest Products Industry in Oregon Through American Rescue Plan Regional Challenge,2022-09-02,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, President Biden will announce the Oregon Mass Timber Coalition as one of 21 winners of the $1 billion Build Back Better Regional Challenge, the most impactful regional economic development competition in decades. Funded by President Biden's American Rescue Plan and administered by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA), the Regional Challenge is awarding approximately $41.4 million in grants to the Oregon Mass Timber Coalition, led by the Port of Portland, to modernize and boost the forest products industry in Oregon.

With $41.4 million in funding from EDA, the Oregon Mass Timber Coalition aims to bring down the cost of home building, provide good jobs and restore forest health. The projects funded as part of this award include working with forest-dependent rural communities to grow access to wood fiber, facilitate a wood-based products workforce development program, provide resources to university R&D programs conducting design and prototyping of new construction materials, and assist state agencies in creating a favorable regulatory framework to accommodate modular mass timber homes in rural and wildlife-impacted communities.

""The Biden Administration is committed to supporting communities as they create pathways for sustainable economic development. For many rural communities in Oregon, timber is a vital industry key to jobs, housing, and the environment,"" said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. ""This investment will create new economic opportunities across Oregon to help it not only recover from the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic but build back stronger and more equitably.""

""Sustainable economic development is among EDA's key investment priorities,"" said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. ""Today's investment in the Oregon Mass Timber Coalition will help bolster business, create jobs, and improve quality of life in rural communities across Oregon.""

""Congratulations to the Oregon Mass Timber Coalition on winning a $41.4 million grant through the Build Back Better Regional Challenge,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01). ""The Coalition, an innovative partnership between government agencies and educational institutions, has worked tirelessly to advance mass timber production and to craft a plan to build affordable housing with mass timber. With this grant, the Coalition will contribute to better forest management, address the housing crisis, fight climate change, and create good jobs in rural as well as urban communities. It has been a pleasure to support the Oregon Mass Timber Coalition through this process, and I look forward to seeing all they will accomplish with this federal grant.""

""This federal investment shows how Oregon continues leading the way in modernizing wood products, generating jobs and economic opportunities in communities statewide,"" said Oregon Senator Ron Wyden. ""I'm gratified that the Oregon Mass Timber Coalition has earned these resources from the American Rescue Plan for fresh approaches to our state's signature timber industry. And I'll keep fighting for similar investments in Oregon to support these valuable new sources for jobs and building materials.""

""Mass timber is an exciting innovation with huge untapped potential. Accelerating affordable housing production, providing good jobs, sequestering carbon, and restoring forest health will provide immense benefits for Oregonians as we seek to construct more energy efficient buildings for the future using all tools available to us,"" said Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley. ""I'm glad to see the federal government step up to support this quintessential Oregon project, bringing together a broad group of partners to address multiple challenges at once with an innovative solution that will support jobs in our woods, our timber mills, and our cities alike.""

""The Oregon Mass Timber Coalition is poised to play a critical role in solving our affordable housing crisis,"" said Congressman Earl Blumenauer (OR-03). ""It's also the key to a low carbon sustainable future based on Oregon's forest products industry. I'm pleased the Biden Administration recognizes this. It is an exciting development, and I'm looking forward to tracking the progress with the Port of Portland, Hacienda Community Development Corporation, and many others.""

""I am thrilled that the Biden Administration recognizes the critical nature of supporting an evolving timber industry here in Oregon,"" said Congressman Peter DeFazio (OR-04). ""Utilizing modern forestry products such as mass timber will not only help address our nationwide housing shortage, it also creates jobs and ensures long-term forest health and resiliency.""

The Oregon Mass Timber Coalition is one of 21 winners – each a regional coalition of partnering entities – that will receive awards between $25 million and $65 million to implement an average of six integrative projects that will enable each region's economic transformation and competitiveness.

The Build Back Better Regional Challenge (BBBRC) is an unprecedented competitive federal grant program that provides each regional coalition with significant investments to tackle a wide variety of projects – including entrepreneurial support, workforce development, infrastructure, and innovation – to drive inclusive economic growth. Each coalition's collection of projects aims to develop and strengthen regional industry clusters – all while embracing economic equity, creating good-paying jobs, and enhancing U.S. competitiveness globally. Projects span 24 states and include $87 million to two primarily Tribal coalitions and over $150 million for projects serving communities impacted by the declining use of coal.

The 21 BBBRC awardees were chosen from 60 EDA-designated finalists that each received approximately $500,000 in funding and technical assistance to continue developing their cluster strategies. The funding for each coalition is approximate, with awards to be signed later in September. Those 60 finalists were chosen from a Phase 1 applicant pool of 529 applications, which exemplifies the tremendous demand for transformational economic development approaches. EDA will continue to support all 60 finalists with the creation of a Community of Practice that will provide technical support, foster connectedness with peer regions and build capacity.

The Build Back Better Regional Challenge is one of EDA's many programs aimed at building strong regional economies and supporting community-led economic development. EDA was allocated $3 billion in supplemental funding under the American Rescue Plan to assist communities nationwide in their efforts to build back better by accelerating economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic and building local economies that will be resilient to future economic shocks. As a part of this funding, EDA allocated $300 million through a Coal Communities Commitment to support coal communities in pandemic recovery and help them create new jobs and opportunities, including through the creation or expansion of a new industry sector. Specifically, EDA has dedicated $100 million of its Build Back Better Regional Challenge funds and $200 million of its Economic Adjustment Assistance funds to directly support coal communities. Grantees for EDA's full suite of American Rescue Plan programs will be awarded on a rolling basis through September 30, 2022. For more information, visit https://www.eda.gov/ARPA/.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)

The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-releases-reports-showing-how-inflation-reduction-act-will-lower-health,Bonamici Releases Reports Showing How Inflation Reduction Act Will Lower Health Care Costs for NW Oregonians,2022-08-31,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [08/31/22] – Today Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) released two reports detailing how thousands of people in NW Oregon will soon spend less on health care because Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act. The savings will be in two areas; more affordable prescription drugs for Medicare recipients and lower health insurance premiums for people who get their coverage through the ACA marketplace.

""The Inflation Reduction Act will help thousands of people in NW Oregon and across the country save money on health care,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""These savings will make a meaningful difference in the lives of families and individuals, easing the pressure of costs that have been too high for too long. I enthusiastically helped pass this legislation, and will continue to advocate for policies that increase access to quality health care.""

Inflation Reduction Act benefits for residents of Oregon's First Congressional District include:

Affordable Health Care

By extending critical tax credits set to expire this year, the Inflation Reduction Act will help about 21,000peoplein the district currently enrolled in subsidized marketplace health insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act save an average of$1,290in premiums starting next year.

Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, a family in the district with two adults, two children, and a household income of $75,000 could save $2,832on their premiums next year.

A single-parent household with one adult, one child, and a household income of $30,000 could save $1,260on their premiums next year.

A household of two adults over the age of 60 with a joint income of $70,000 could save $14,772on their premiums next year.

Lower Prescription Drug Costs

The Inflation Reduction Act caps Medicare beneficiaries' annual out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs covered by Medicare Part D at $2,000 per year starting in 2025. An estimated 4,000 Medicare Part D beneficiaries in the district had out-of-pocket costs above $2,000 in 2020.

For the estimated 6,900 Medicare beneficiaries receiving insulin in the district, the new law will cap monthly copayments for insulin products at $35 per month, saving about $1,300 per person per year depending on the prescription.

The Inflation Reduction Act finally allows the government to negotiate lower drug prices with the pharmaceutical industry. If the Inflation Reduction Act's drug pricing provisions had been fully in effect in 2020:

The total cost of prescriptions filled by Medicare beneficiaries in the district could have been about $31million lower.

Medicare beneficiaries in the district could have saved about $10million in reduced premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

The urgent need for these reforms was demonstrated by the Committee on Oversight and Reform's landmark drug pricing investigation, which revealed how the pharmaceutical industry's uninhibited pricing practices lead to price gouging and runaway costs for Americans.

The report on benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act health coverage provisions for Oregon's First District residents can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/oregon-leaders-visit-east-portland-health-center-affirm-support-abortion-access,"Oregon Leaders Visit East Portland Health Center, Affirm Support for Abortion Access",2022-08-25,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Portland, OR—Governor Kate Brown, Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, and Representative Andrea Valderrama today visited the Elsie H. Hillman East Portland Health Center, operated by Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette. The center provides a wide range of sexual and reproductive health care services to patients in East Multnomah County and beyond. They were joined by Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette President and CEO Anne Udall and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Oregon Executive Director An Do.

The state of Idaho's trigger law banning abortion takes effect today. Abortion remains legal in the state of Oregon. Governor Brown, Congresswoman Bonamici, and Representative Valderrama discussed their commitment to ensuring that all patients seeking reproductive care in Oregon have access to quality care, regardless of where they come from.

""Oregon will always be a safe and welcoming place for all people seeking reproductive care, and for all people seeking an abortion,"" said Governor Brown. ""Oregon has joined Washington and California to form the West Coast Offense, to protect abortion access on the West Coast, protect people seeking an abortion in our states, and to protect providers from prosecution in other states for providing medical care. I'd like to thank the health care workers of Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette, who are on the front lines of providing patient care to everyone who comes through their doors.""

""We will never stop fighting to protect, restore, and expand access to abortion care,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""We must stand together in opposition to the recent attacks on reproductive rights, including the trigger law going into place in our neighboring state, Idaho. Here in Oregon we are committed to providing the care people need, whether they are Oregonians or traveling from nearby states. I am deeply grateful for the Planned Parenthood staff we met with today who are providing needed care, and to the many reproductive health care workers throughout our state.""

""Reproductive justice is racial justice. This means if we aren't addressing health disparities that continue to impact Black and Brown communities, we aren't going far enough,"" said Representative Andrea Valderrama (D-Outer Eas… ""While the right to abortion is protected under Oregon law and we've worked hard to expand access, we know that coverage and access gaps persist. That's why I support the Hillman Clinic and efforts to address and eliminate barriers in the 2023 session.""

""Idaho's abortion ban is devastating and cruel, and it puts physicians in an impossible position: having to choose between upholding their oath, or risk criminalization and jail time,"" said Anne Udall, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette. ""The chaos, confusion and devastation we are now seeing on the ground is exactly the environment politicians opposed to reproductive rights have worked for decades to create. Banning abortion does not stop people from needing abortions. It only puts more people's lives in danger.

""Here in Oregon and Southwest Washington, where our health centers are located, our doors are open and we will do what we can to connect people who come to us seeking abortions with the care they need — regardless of where they live.""

""Anti-abortion politicians have been systematically stripping access to abortion one state at a time. Against the will of the American people, the Supreme Court handed away our bodily autonomy and removed the bulwark against politicians having free rein in our personal medical decisions,"" said An Do, Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Oregon. ""I am proud to live in a state with leadership that believes abortion is health care and that health care is a human right.

""We are so grateful for the leadership of Governor Brown, Congresswoman Bonamici and Representative Valderrama for taking bold and necessary action in recent months to try to protect abortion access. We need everyone — at every level of government — to continue using every tool in their toolboxes to protect access to abortion.""

Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette is the largest nonprofit family planning and reproductive rights organization in Oregon and Southwest Washington. Its largest health center, the Elsie H. Hillman East Portland Health Center, has been serving patients since June 2020. This state-of-the-art facility features an education and community space to host events with community partners in East Portland; signage in four languages; a large waiting area for patients equipped with Wi-Fi; light that simulates the outdoors; an individually controlled sound system in each of the 12 exam rooms; and rooftop solar panels that will target 80% of the building's electricity.

Photos from the event are available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-statement-student-loan-forgiveness,Bonamici Statement on Student Loan Forgiveness,2022-08-24,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [08/24/22] – Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) issued the following statement following President Biden's announcement about targeted student loan forgiveness.

""The Biden administration's historic decision to forgive up to $20,000 in student loan debt will transform the lives of millions of hardworking Americans,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""I applaud President Biden for taking bold action that provides relief to borrowers who need it most – Pell Grant recipients and those with debt but no degree. Pell Grant recipients are eligible for up to $20,000 of debt forgiveness; other non-Pell Grant borrowers are eligible for up to $10,000 of forgiveness. The President's action will completely eliminate student debt for millions of borrowers and reduce the outstanding balance for millions more. Borrowers of color are more likely to qualify for Pell Grants, so this relief is an important step toward addressing generational wealth inequality.

""The President's announcement is the most far-reaching in a long list of actions taken by the Biden administration to support student borrowers, reform the federal student loan system, and make our nation's colleges and universities more affordable. To date, this administration has approved $32 billion in loan forgiveness for about 1.6 million borrowers nationwide who have worked in public service, attended institutions engaged in fraudulent practices, and more. Borrowers across Oregon are benefitting from this proactive approach to addressing the student debt crisis. The Department of Education's Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) waiver identified 2,050 Oregonians holding $120.2 million in federal student loans for forgiveness. The Department also approved $102.5 million in loan forgiveness for an additional 8,650 Oregon borrowers who were defrauded by the predatory and misleading tactics of Corinthian Colleges, Inc. The Department also provided forgiveness of outstanding student loan debt held by 2,090 Oregon borrowers who attended the predatory institution ITT Tech between 2005-2016. These three actions alone amount to nearly $260 million in financial relief for Oregonians.

""Congress must now pursue targeted policies that build on the Biden administration's actions to support borrowers and address long-term college affordability. I have introduced and am working to pass several bills that will make college more affordable for students before, during, and after their education, especially for the most vulnerable and marginalized students.

My SIMPLE Act would make it easier for more borrowers to access income-driven repayment plans to minimize their monthly student loan payments upon completing their education. This will complement the Biden Administration's recent proposed rule to improve income-driven repayment.

My Opportunities for Success Act would make the Federal Work Study program more generous, target students with financial need, improve access to meaningful career-related work experience for students, and provide incentives to colleges that focus on the academic and professional success of low-income students.

My Student Loan Borrower Safety Net Act would protect borrowers with federal student loans following the end of the student loan repayment pause by simplifying borrowers' ability to enroll in income-driven repayment plans, increasing access to economic hardship support, improving outreach to borrowers regarding the resumption of payments, and providing a longer grace period for borrowers who miss a payment.

My Students and Young Consumers Empowerment Act would leverage the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to protect student borrowers and provide relevant and timely information about the student loan marketplace.

I also enthusiastically supported a historic increase to the Pell grant in the Fiscal Year 2022 enacted budget and a proposed increase in Fiscal Year 2023 budget.

""I remain committed to working with Secretary Cardona and my colleagues in Congress to provide all eligible borrowers with the relief they need to thrive. And I look forward to continuing our work to improve access to affordable, high-quality higher education.""

More information about the student debt relief plan can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/oregon-receive-835-million-us-treasury-department-promote-small-business-growth,Oregon to Receive Up to $83.5 Million from U.S. Treasury Department to Promote Small Business Growth and Entrepreneurship through the American Rescue Plan,2022-08-19,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the approval of

Oregon's application for funding under the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) for up

to $83.5 million. President Biden's American Rescue Plan reauthorized and expanded SSBCI,

which was originally established in 2010 and was highly successful in increasing access to

capital for small businesses and entrepreneurs. The new SSBCI builds on this successful model

by providing nearly $10 billion to states, the District of Columbia, territories, and Tribal

governments to increase access to capital and promote entrepreneurship, especially in

traditionally underserved communities as they emerge from the pandemic. SSBCI funding is

expected to catalyze up to $10 of private investment for every $1 of SSBCI capital funding,

amplifying the effects of this funding and providing small business owners with the resources

they need to sustainably grow and thrive. State governments submitted plans to Treasury for how

they will use their SSBCI allocation to provide funding to small businesses, including through

venture capital programs, loan participation programs, loan guarantee programs, collateral

support programs, and capital access programs.

""This is an historic investment in entrepreneurship, small business growth, and innovation

through the American Rescue Plan that will help reduce barriers to capital access for traditionally

underserved communities including those in rural areas,"" said Secretary of the Treasury Janet

L. Yellen. ""I'm excited to see how SSBCI funds will promote equitable economic growth in

Oregon and across the country.""

""I'd like to thank Secretary Yellen, Deputy Secretary Adeyemo, and the Biden-Harris

administration for approving Oregon's application and for their support of our business

community,"" said Governor Kate Brown. ""Oregon's SSCBI funds will make meaningful

impacts for our small business community for generations to come and help to further our work

to build a safe, strong, just, and equitable Oregon for all. Oregon's approach will be to use these

funds to counter systemic barriers to economic opportunity by providing access to capital in

persistently underserved, low- and moderate-income areas, and rural communities.""

""Oregon is a leader in innovation, thanks to the entrepreneurs and small businesses generating

thousands of jobs in their communities. Yet, too often small business owners – especially

entrepreneurs of color, women, and those in rural parts of our state -- face serious obstacles to

get the capital they need to grow their businesses, or even get their businesses off the ground in

the first place,"" said Senator Ron Wyden. ""These historic American Rescue Plan investments

will go far in tearing down obstacles to growth and support more entrepreneurs and small

businesses in every nook and cranny of our state. I am thrilled that Oregon's SSBCI plan has

been approved and am eager to see our entrepreneurs and small businesses thrive.""

""Small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities,"" said Senator Jeff Merkley. ""As our

economy continues to recover from the ongoing pandemic and other market disruptors, it's

crucial to continue supporting our local community businesses. This important access to capital

will help jumpstart new and growing small businesses in Oregon by ensuring business

opportunities are accessible and encouraging entrepreneurs old and new to build out their small

businesses—ultimately, serving their communities and building the shared future we want.""

""This significant investment is an exciting opportunity for Oregon's small businesses and the

hard-working, entrepreneurial Oregonians who run them,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne

Bonamici. ""Small businesses are an important part of our communities and our economy. With

more people starting new small businesses and growing existing businesses, it's important to

break down barriers to success, especially in underserved areas and rural communities. I've been

working on access to capital for small businesses since my time in the Oregon Legislature,

so I enthusiastically helped to secure this federal funding. I look forward to seeing how it

contributes to the growth and stability of Oregon small businesses in the years to come.""

Oregon, approved for up to $83.5 million, will operate five programs, including two venture

capital programs to which the state has allocated $30 million. The venture capital programs are designed to invest in funds in need of additional capital to launch and scale and to make co- investments in companies alongside private investors by matching the lead investor's structure and terms. Across its programs, Oregon's plan aims to counter systemic barriers to economic opportunity by providing access to capital in persistently underserved, low- and moderate-

income areas and rural communities. Oregon expects these programs to be self-sustaining, providing vital support to small business in Oregon over the long term.

A recent White House report found that more Americans are starting new businesses than ever

before. In 2021, Americans applied to start 5.4 million new businesses – 20% more than any

other year on record. It also found that small businesses are creating more jobs than ever before,

with businesses with fewer than 50 workers creating 1.9 million jobs in the first three quarters of 2021 – the highest rate of small business job creation ever recorded in a single year.

The investments being made through SSBCI are a key part of the Biden Administration's strategy to

keep this small business boom going by expanding access to capital and by providing

entrepreneurs the resources they need to succeed. The work Treasury has done through the

implementation process to ensure SSBCI funds reach traditionally underserved small businesses

and entrepreneurs will also be critical to ensuring the small business boom not only continues but

also continues to lift up communities disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Treasury

intends to continue approving state plans on a rolling basis.

The following descriptions highlight some of the key programs that Treasury has approved for

the four states being announced today:

• Colorado, approved for up to $104.7 million, will operate three programs, including a

venture capital program, to which it has allocated nearly $60 million. The program

expects to invest in two venture capital funds per year for three years to build a diverse

seed-stage portfolio of small businesses in need of capital. Colorado has also allocated

$35 million to an existing cash collateral support program that enables small businesses

and non-profit organizations to secure credit by pledging a cash deposit as collateral. In

addition, Colorado has set aside $10 million for a loan program intended to help Main

Street businesses recover from the pandemic.

• Montana, approved for up to $61.3 million, will operate a loan participation program

modeled after a successful program in the previous iteration of SSBCI. This new

program is designed to significantly increase the number of eligible CDFI and non-profit

local economic development agencies with revolving loan funds (RLFs) that can

participate in the program, to obtain a much broader outreach for targeting underserved

markets. In addition, this program gives rural and Native American entrepreneurs greater

opportunity to create new businesses and expand existing small businesses — creating

jobs and economic opportunities in Montana's rural counties and Indian Country.

• New York, approved for up to $501.5 million, will operate multiple programs, including

a capital access program, loan guarantee programs, loan participation programs, and

venture capital programs. For example, New York has allocated over $154 million to a

program that provide equity support to small businesses by investing through private

venture capital funds and accelerator funds. This program will provide capital support to

funds with diverse and emerging fund managers and teams. In addition, New York has

allocated funds to two programs designed to help small and underserved businesses

compete for government contracts, which may include projects funded by the Bipartisan

Infrastructure Law. As part of these efforts, New York will expand an existing program that saw a significant majority of its support for potential contractors going to minority-

and women-owned businesses.

• Oregon, approved for up to $83.5 million, will operate five programs, including two

venture capital programs to which the state has allocated $30 million. The venture capital

programs are designed to invest in funds in need of additional capital to launch and scale

and to make co-investments in companies alongside private investors by matching the lead investor's structure and terms. Across its programs, Oregon's plan aims to counter

systemic barriers to economic opportunity by providing access to capital in persistently

underserved, low- and moderate-income areas and rural communities. Oregon expects

these programs to be self-sustaining, providing vital support to small business in Oregon

over the long term.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-helps-house-pass-inflation-reduction-act-bill-heads-president-s-desk,Bonamici Helps House Pass Inflation Reduction Act; Bill Heads to President’s Desk,2022-08-12,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. [08/12/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) helped the House pass the Inflation Reduction Act, sending the monumental legislation to President Joe Biden's desk to be signed into law.

""The Inflation Reduction Act is a transformational piece of legislation that benefits Oregonians and Americans in many ways,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""It will reduce daily costs, expand access to affordable health care, strengthen domestic energy production and manufacturing, and reduce the federal deficit. Importantly, this plan will meaningfully reduce carbon emissions by investing nearly $375 billion in a clean energy future. It will lower consumer energy costs with clean energy tax credits, and decarbonize every sector of the economy to reduce 40 percent of U.S. carbon emissions by 2030. This will move us toward a better, healthier, and more secure future for Oregonians and people across the country.

""These historic investments come at a time when higher prices are straining household budgets and depriving too many Oregonians of the full benefits of our growing economy. I was pleased to help get the Inflation Reduction Act over the finish line to ease the financial burdens Americans face, and pay for it by improving tax fairness and closing loopholes exploited by the very largest corporations. I look forward to delivering these benefits to Oregonians.""

See Bonamici's statement for the record here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-wyden-merkley-announce-funding-beaverton-road-safety-improvements,"Bonamici, Wyden, Merkley, Announce Funding for Beaverton Road Safety Improvements",2022-08-10,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BEAVERTON, OR [08/10/2022] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-1) and Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley announced a $2 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant award to the City of Beaverton for the Beaverton Downtown Loop project.

The Beaverton Downtown Loop is a mobility and modernization project that will significantly improve bike and pedestrian safety along a dangerous downtown corridor. This project will also strengthen local economic development and reconnect lower-income residents to community assets and civic services. The grant will support the design and construction of a demonstration project in the downtown area.

""On a recent tour of the Beaverton Downtown Loop, I saw firsthand the challenges that people experience when walking, biking, or using transit in Beaverton's downtown area,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""I'm glad to help secure federal funding to support this project, which will increase access, mobility, and safety for the Beaverton community and build a more equitable, sustainable transportation corridor.""

""This federal investment in downtown Beaverton will help ensure a better quality of life for families and small businesses living and working in this growing Washington County city,"" Senator Ron Wyden said. ""I'm glad the teamwork between Beaverton and the congressional delegation has secured these federal resources to support safer and broader transportation options that are both sustainable and equitable.""

""This grant will help make Beaverton thrive,"" said Senator Jeff Merkley. ""This federal funding will make Beaverton's vibrant Downtown Loop safer for pedestrians with wider sidewalks, safer for bicyclists with protected bike lanes, and more easily accessible by public transportation with more bus stops. This critical support will go a long way to continue to propel Beaverton forward.""

""I am thrilled that Beaverton is receiving this planning grant for our Downtown Loop Project,"" said Mayor Lacey Beaty. ""The Loop is our Complete Streets approach to reimagining this critical connection for people in our community. I'm grateful for the support of Congresswoman Bonamici, Senator Wyden, and Senator Merkley. This transformative project prioritizes safety and equity, and truly takes every level of government working together to make it happen.""

The Beaverton Downtown Loop is one of Congresswoman Bonamici's 15 priority Community Funding Projects that she submitted for the 2023 fiscal year. It was included in an appropriations bill that recently passed the House and now awaits consideration in the Senate.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-leads-call-oversight-school-safety-funding-bipartisan-safer,Bonamici Leads Call for Oversight of School Safety Funding in Bipartisan Safer Communities Act,2022-08-01,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. [08/01/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) led 13 Members of Congress in calling on Secretary Miguel Cardona to provide states with comprehensive guidance to ensure that funding from the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act is used to develop evidence-based programs that create safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments and not to increase discipline or criminalization of marginalized student populations.

Congress passed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act in the wake of the tragic shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas and after several mass shootings at schools over the past decade. President Biden signed the bill into law on June 25, 2022.

The Act includes more than $1 billion for school improvement and school-based mental health services, and an additional $1 billion for safe and healthy students programs through Title IV-A of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The Act also includes a prohibition on using school safety funding for the purchase of weapons or training school staff members in the use of weapons.

""These additional federal dollars are designated specifically to foster safe and healthy schools, and to develop positive school climates that support learning for all students,"" the Members of Congress wrote. ""Although we welcome the additional federal investment in school safety and remain grateful for the bipartisan work to pass this important law, we are committed to making sure that the funding Congress authorized and appropriated serves students, schools, and communities equitably and effectively.""

The Members noted that research shows that restrictive, hardened, and overly-policed learning environments can create distrust and discontentment among students, which negatively affects school climate.

""Particularly in the context of the broader Act that includes additional support for STOP School Violence Act (STOP) grants operated by Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Programs and codifies further involvement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in school safety decision making, we urge the Department to prioritize the implementation of evidence-based, non-punitive practices that do not disproportionately discipline or criminalize marginalized student populations, including students of color, students from low-income backgrounds, and students with disabilities,"" the Members wrote.

They urged the Department to:

Clarify for State Education Agencies, through guidance, the definition of ""high-need"" when awarding Title IV-A competitive subgrants to Local Education Agencies under their jurisdiction.

Conduct and make publicly available a report of how SEAs and LEAs allocate and use their additional school safety funding, including funds received through Title IV-A formula grants and subgrants.

The full letter can be read here and below.

In addition to Bonamici, the letter was signed by Representatives Barbara Lee, Donald M. Payne, Jr., Adriano Espaillat, Earl Blumenauer, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Kathy Castor, Frederica S. Wilson, Troy Carter, Adam B. Schiff, Dina Titus, Grace Meng, Carolyn B. Maloney, and Donald S. Beyer Jr.

The Honorable Miguel Cardona

Secretary of Education

United States Department of Education

Washington, D.C. 20202

Dear Secretary Cardona,

As the Department of Education (Department) prepares to implement the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (Act), we write to request comprehensive guidance from the Department to State Educational Agencies (SEAs) regarding evidence-based practices to develop safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments that the Act can help fund. The senseless and horrific murder of 19 children and two adults at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas compelled Congress, for the first time in nearly three decades, to come together and pass a bipartisan law to curb gun violence and make schools safer for students and educators. We are pleased to see more than $1 billion for school improvement and school-based mental health services included in the Act, including the additional $1 billion provided to Title IV-A of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). These additional federal dollars are designated specifically to foster safe and healthy schools, and to develop positive school climates that support learning for all students.

Although we welcome the additional federal investment in school safety and remain grateful for the bipartisan work to pass this important law, we are committed to making sure that the funding Congress authorized and appropriated serves students, schools, and communities equitably and effectively. An expansive body of research supports the effectiveness of counselors and social workers, racially and culturally responsive social and emotional learning (SEL), restorative justice, and whole-child learning to improve students' behavior in schools.[1] Research also shows that restrictive, hardened, and overly-policed learning environments can create distrust and discontentment among students, negatively affecting school climate.[2] Particularly in the context of the broader Act that includes additional support for STOP School Violence Act (STOP) grants operated by Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Programs and codifies further involvement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in school safety decision making, we urge the Department to prioritize the implementation of evidence-based, non-punitive practices that do not disproportionately discipline or criminalize marginalized student populations, including students of color, students from low-income backgrounds, and students with disabilities.

We urge the Department to take the following actions so communities across our nation can experience the numerous benefits of this Act and all students can attend safe and healthy schools.

Clarify for SEAs, through guidance, the definition of ""high-need"" when awarding Title IV-A competitive subgrants to LEAs under their jurisdiction. Under Division B, Title II of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, Congress appropriated $1 billion to the Department for activities under Section 4108 of ESSA. The Act disburses formula grants to SEAs and, in turn, allows SEAs to make individual determinations for awarding subgrants, on a competitive basis, to high-need LEAs. We are concerned that the open-ended language may be interpreted vastly differently across states, and that a lack of clarity regarding the definition of what constitutes ""high-need"" may result in inconsistent and ineffective uses of Title IV-A funding that could prohibit funds from reaching districts with the greatest need. We also seek clarity about whether LEAs will still be required to submit comprehensive applications to their respective SEA to receive a grant, as required under Section 4106 of ESSA. By setting parameters and clear guidelines for SEAs in determining an LEA's need, the Department can give SEAs the flexibility they need while preserving accountability for the supplemental appropriation provided by Congress to this vital program.

Conduct and make publicly available a report of how SEAs and LEAs allocate and use their additional school safety funding, including funds received through Title IV-A formula grants and subgrants. Additional oversight from the Department for the disbursement and expenditure of school safety funding provided through various streams in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act is critical to promoting accountability and transparency. We request data about the content of LEAs' applications to SEAs to receive competitive Title IV-A subgrants, the LEAs in each state ultimately selected to receive Title IV-A subgrants, the level and extent of community input solicited and collected by SEAs and LEAs in awarding subgrants and contracts through each funding stream, and any other relevant information collected by the Department throughout the implementation of the Act. We also request that the Department coordinate with the Department of Justice (DOJ) to conduct a review of the organizations that receive both STOP grants and COPS grants, and to monitor the effectiveness of those grants in improving school climate and conditions. As SEAs receive supplemental funding to support students' social and emotional health and well-being and build positive school climates, we would welcome real-time information and assurances from the Department to confirm that the funding we authorized and appropriated meets the Department's and Congress' shared goal of creating safer communities.

The Department of Education has a unique and important opportunity in this moment to help states and school districts build safe, healthy, and positive school climates nationwide with the additional funding provided by Congress. We encourage you to take proactive steps to provide the necessary leadership, guidance, and oversight to help states and districts use such funds in the spirit of ESSA and to support schools and students with the greatest need. Thank you.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-fitzpatrick-introduce-bipartisan-bill-spark-innovation-education,"Bonamici, Fitzpatrick Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Spark Innovation in Education",2022-07-28,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [07/28/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced bipartisan legislation to help schools and colleges make dramatic advancements in teaching and learning by creating a national center that advances high-risk, high-reward education research projects.

The New Essential Education Discoveries (NEED) Act would create a National Center for Advanced Development in Education (NCADE) dedicated to developing and disseminating innovative, cutting-edge practices and tools, such as voice recognition software to assess emerging readiness gaps and dyslexia, and digital learning platforms to help students recover lost learning time from the pandemic. The new center would use a model similar to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).

""There is tremendous potential for new research and emerging technologies to help close learning gaps, but these projects often lack the funding and support they need to reach our students,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""Using the best data and the best ideas at all levels in a student's educational path will allow educators to identify what is working and what needs to be done better. The NEED Act will make innovation in education a priority and invest in projects that make a difference for students, putting them on a path to long-term success.""

""Congress has a responsibility to provide our schools, our children, and parents with the best education resources possible,"" said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. ""Our bipartisan NEED Act will establish a national center dedicated to developing and sharing best practices for teaching and learning in the 21st century. I urge my colleagues to join us in providing the tools necessary to ensure that every student reaches their full potential.""

NCADE will be housed under the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) and retain the flexibility necessary to advance projects geared toward closing historic opportunity and achievement gaps between different groups of students. The bill also makes significant investments in improving Statewide Longitudinal Data Systems (SLDS), helping states better track students' progress through K-12 and into the workforce.

""The NEED Act will establish essential infrastructure for education R&D and redresses the historical neglect of this important area,"" said Dan Correa, CEO of the Federation of American Scientists. ""The programs will incubate game-changing solutions in education, especially for disadvantaged students, and it will help states collect and utilize learning and workforce data.""

The legislation is endorsed by: Advanced Education Research and Development Fund (AERDF); Data Quality Campaign; Digital Promise Global; EDGE Consulting Partners; EdTech Evidence Exchange; Education Reform Now; The Education Trust; Federation of American Scientists / The Day One Project; Knowledge Alliance; Lincoln Network; InnovateEDU; Learn Launch; The Learning Agency; LearningForge LLC; LearnPlatform; New America's PreK-12 Education Policy Program; New Classrooms Innovation Partners; New Leaders; State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA); Teach Plus; The Tech Interactive; John Bailey, Former White House Domestic Policy Advisor; Mario Cardona, Professor of Practice and Director of Policy, Arizona State University - Children's Equity Project; and Kumar Garg, Schmidt Futures.

A summary of the legislation can be found here, and the full text of the legislation can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-helps-send-bill-president-s-desk-strengthen-semiconductor,"Bonamici Helps Send Bill to President’s Desk to Strengthen Semiconductor Manufacturing, Grow Economy",2022-07-28,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [7/28/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) joined the House in passing historic bipartisan legislation to invest in U.S. economic competitiveness by strengthening the nation's scientific enterprise and supply chains. The bill has already passed the Senate.

The bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act will support domestic semiconductor manufacturing, accelerate research and development, create good-paying jobs, lower costs for consumers, and boost workforce education and training. It contains Bonamici's legislation to address the effects of the climate crisis on the ocean and promote STEAM education.

Bonamici spoke in favor of the legislation on the House floor. Video can be viewed here.

""The pandemic has underscored how important our domestic semiconductor supply chain is to transportation, the energy sector, national security, and scientific advancement,"" Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici said on the House floor. ""With this bill, we'll make a vital investment in domestic manufacturing and in workers in Oregon and across the country.""

""The CHIPS and Science Act will grow U.S. leadership, strengthen our scientific enterprise, bolster research and development, grow our domestic semiconductor manufacturing base, and onshore critical supply chains. Importantly, it will also support workers and create many quality jobs in Oregon and across the country.""

Included in the CHIPS and Science Act is Bonamici's bipartisan Coastal and Ocean Acidification Research and Innovation Act and Building STEAM Education Act. It also includes a provision to advance regional clean energy innovation similar to Bonamici's Regional Clean Energy Innovation Act.

The Coastal and Ocean Acidification Research and Innovation Act will:

Protect ocean health and provide resources to coastal communities to mitigate the effects of ocean acidification,

Strengthen investments in research and monitoring, and

Increase our understanding of the socioeconomic consequences of inaction.

The Building STEAM Education Act will:

Promote the integration of arts and design in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics curriculum to promote creativity and innovation,

Encourage partnerships between higher education and elementary and secondary institutions to develop STEAM curriculum, and

Open up grants for informal, out-of-school STEAM programs.

The provisions similar to the Regional Clean Energy Innovation Act will:

Improve American competitiveness in clean energy technology research and development,

Foster regional collaboration to accelerate the deployment of clean energy, and

Promote economic and workforce development in diverse geographic areas of the country as regions transition to clean energy.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-fitzpatrick-introduce-bipartisan-bill-prevent-student-loan-borrower,"Bonamici, Fitzpatrick Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Student Loan Borrower Default",2022-07-27,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [7/27/22] – Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced updated legislation to help student loan borrowers avoid default.

The bipartisan Streamlining Income-driven, Manageable Payments on Loans for Education (SIMPLE) Act will help prevent student loan defaults by automatically enrolling struggling borrowers in income-driven repayment plans so they can repay based on financial ability. The legislation uses information already on file at the Department of Education and U.S. Treasury to connect borrowers automatically with existing repayment plans. The bill also removes the redundant annual paperwork for updating income information while enrolled in these plans, further lowering risk of default.

""Although the Biden-Harris administration has taken encouraging steps to improve student loan forgiveness and income-driven repayment plans, there is more we can do to help borrowers,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, Chair of the Education & Labor Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Human Services. ""The bipartisan SIMPLE Act will streamline the enrollment process for income-driven repayment plans, making it easier for borrowers to access affordable payments and avoid catastrophic defaults. It is unacceptable that people who invested time and resources in their education have to navigate a needlessly complicated student repayment system. The decision to go to college shouldn't lead to financial ruin, and I'm glad to work across the aisle to find an urgent, common-sense solution to the convergent crises of growing student debt and diminishing college affordability.""

""For too many, student loan debt is a crippling burden that impacts borrowers' involvement in our economy and achieving personal goals like owning a home, starting a family, and supporting the community. Investing in one's own future through higher education should not lead to long-term financial distress,"" said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. ""Student loan defaults have damaging consequences for borrowers that can last for significant periods of time, an issue only worsened in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. I am proud to support the SIMPLE Act, which will provide our students and borrowers what they deserve: more efficient access to the repayment resources already at their disposal.""

Defaulting on student loans can cause long-term financial damage, disproportionately affecting low-income borrowers and borrowers who have up to $10,000 in debt with no degree. The SIMPLE Act prioritizes and protects vulnerable student loan borrowers—those who are in immediate danger of default, and those who are totally and permanently disabled—from these severe consequences.

""Income-driven repayment (IDR) plans offer a lifeline for millions of student loan borrowers, making repayment more affordable and helping struggling borrowers avoid default. Unfortunately, the complexities of enrolling and remaining in IDR keep many vulnerable borrowers from accessing this important safety net. The SIMPLE Act would expand access to affordable income-driven repayment options by automatically enrolling struggling borrowers in IDR plans before they experience the punitive consequences of default. The bill also eliminates burdensome annual paperwork requirements, making it easier for borrowers to remain enrolled in IDR. The financial aid community stands in support of this bill,"" said Justin Draeger, President & CEO, National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA)

""We applaud Rep. Bonamici and Rep. Fitzpatrick for leading the bipartisan SIMPLE Act, which makes common-sense improvements to help student loan borrowers access more affordable repayment options and avoid the devastating consequences of loan default,"" said Michele Streeter, Senior Director of College Affordability, The Institute for College Access & Success (TICAS).

In addition to NASFAA and TICAS, the SIMPLE Act is endorsed by Third Way and New America.

You can read a summary of the SIMPLE Act here, and the full text of the bill here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-leads-60-colleagues-calling-pregnant-students-be-protected-under-title,Bonamici Leads 60 Colleagues in Calling for Pregnant Students to be Protected Under Title IX,2022-07-21,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"July 21, 2022

Asks include prohibiting institutions of higher education from suspending, expelling, and referring to law enforcement students who terminate a pregnancy

WASHINGTON, DC [07/21/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) led 60 Members of Congress in calling on Secretary Miguel Cardona to use the Education Department's existing authority under Title IX to protect students who are pregnant, have an abortion, or are parenting.

The Members of Congress sent the letter following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn the right to an abortion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization. Title IX prohibits institutions of higher education (IHEs) from taking retaliatory action against students and excluding them from educational programs and activities based on pregnancy or termination of a pregnancy.

""The Supreme Court's disregard for reproductive freedom jeopardizes equal access to opportunity, bodily autonomy, and academic and professional flexibility for millions of women across our nation,"" the Members wrote. ""With the legal ambiguity surrounding the effects of Dobbs in many states and the critical role of the Department in upholding civil rights in education, we urge immediate and deliberate action.""

The Members noted that data from the National Center for Education Statistics show that parenting students are 10 times less likely to graduate from college on time than their peers without children, resulting in, among other adverse outcomes, reduced lifetime earnings.

""This decision will diminish the ability of pregnant students to access safe and legal reproductive care and place a heavier burden on institutions of higher education (IHEs), many of which are woefully underprepared to handle a sharp increase in pregnant and parenting students,"" the Members wrote. ""Creating additional barriers for students to access reproductive care and, in effect forcing many students to carry pregnancies to term, would likely prevent students from feeling safe on campus, hinder their ability to access equitable educational opportunities, and even interfere with their completion and graduation plans.""

The Members of Congress called on the Department of Education to:

Reiterate the scope of Title IX's protections for pregnant and parenting students and issue guidance to campuses on their roles and responsibilities under Title IX.

Prohibit IHEs from suspending, expelling, and referring to law enforcement students who terminate a pregnancy.

Increase outreach to students and oversight and investigations of IHEs in violation of Title IX.

Request assurances from IHEs, including those claiming a religious exemption to Title IX, about how they will protect students who are pregnant and how they will address disparate enforcement of Title IX.

Clarify how Dobbs interacts with other privacy laws affecting students.

In addition to Bonamici, the letter was signed by Representatives Lucy McBath, Alma S. Adams, Danny K. Davis, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Brenda L. Lawrence, Jahana Hayes, Earl Blumenauer, Adriano Espaillat, Lois Frankel, Frederica S. Wilson, Raúl M. Grijalva, Jackie Speier, Julia Brownley, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Angie Craig, Dina Titus, Cheri Bustos, Ann McLane Kuster, Sara Jacobs, Mike Thompson, Jan Schakowsky, Katie Porter, Yvette D. Clarke, Grace Meng, Katherine M. Clark, Sean Casten, Susie Lee, Barbara Lee, Carolyn B. Maloney, Sheila Jackson Lee, Terri A. Sewell, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Mark DeSaulnier, Pramila Jayapal, Jamaal Bowman, Grace F. Napolitano, Doris Matsui, Pete Aguilar, Joe Courtney, Debbie Dingell, Ayanna Pressley, Nanette Diaz Barragán, Chris Pappas, Val Butler Demings, Linda T. Sánchez, Diana DeGette, Derek Kilmer, Haley M. Stevens, Mark Pocan, Jared Huffman, Mark Takano, Lucille Roybal-Allard, Melanie Stansbury, John Garamendi, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Mary Gay Scanlon, Nikema Williams, Judy Chu, and Madeleine Dean.

The legislation is endorsed by the National Women's Law Center (NWLC) and National Partnership for Women & Families (NPWF).

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

The Honorable Miguel Cardona

Secretary of Education

U.S. Department of Education

Washington, DC 20202

Dear Secretary Cardona:

We write to express our significant concerns about the Supreme Court's recent decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, in which a majority of the justices held that the Constitution does not confer a right to an abortion. As a result, reproductive freedom is now stripped from millions of women – including pregnant students – across the United States.

This decision will diminish the ability of pregnant students to access safe and legal reproductive care and place a heavier burden on institutions of higher education (IHEs), many of which are woefully underprepared to handle a sharp increase in pregnant and parenting students.[1] Creating additional barriers for students to access reproductive care and, in effect forcing many students to carry pregnancies to term, would likely prevent students from feeling safe on campus, hinder their ability to access equitable educational opportunities, and even interfere with their completion and graduation plans. Data from the National Center for Education Statistics show that parenting students are 10 times less likely to graduate from college on time than their peers without children,[2] resulting in, among other adverse outcomes, reduced lifetime earnings.[3] Together, a lack of comprehensive support for pregnant and parenting students and a nationwide assault on reproductive rights significantly threaten the health and well-being of students.

Encouragingly, the Department of Education (Department)'s recently announced Title IX Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) includes improved protections for pregnant and parenting students and employees in schools and IHEs nationwide. We recognize that these proposals are still subject to a public review process and have yet to be finalized. As such, we ask that you promptly exercise the Department's existing authority to make sure that pregnant students have equal access to educational programs and activities. As you know, Title IX has long protected against discrimination on the basis of pregnancy and termination of pregnancy by prohibiting IHEs from taking retaliatory action against students and excluding them from educational programs and activities for their reproductive decisions.[4] By striking down nearly 50 years of precedent and paving the way for state laws that criminalize the termination of a pregnancy and have already stripped reproductive freedom from millions of women, the Supreme Court has taken a step toward denying the educational and privacy rights of students nationwide.

Because of the urgency of this moment for pregnant students around the country – particularly those who attend IHEs in states that have already denied or plan to deny women the opportunity to make their own reproductive decisions and chart their own futures – we urge the Department to take the following steps to protect students using the authority granted by Title IX.

Reiterate the scope of Title IX's protections for pregnant and parenting students and issue guidance to campuses on their roles and responsibilities under Title IX. In the context of the Dobbs decision and greater uncertainty and fear among women nationwide, the Department can and must play a role in reminding women of the protections they will continue to have in the classroom and at their workplace. The Know Your Rights document for pregnant or parenting students, which is published on the Department's website, explicitly states that schools and IHEs must excuse absences and provide opportunities for making up missed work for excused absences related to pregnancy and childbirth.[5] We ask that the Department publish updated guidance for students and IHEs clarifying that conditions related to pregnancy, including recovery time from the termination of a pregnancy, are also protected under Title IX. Within this guidance, we ask that you remind IHEs that the right to receive an education free from sex-based harassment continues to apply for students who choose to terminate their pregnancy. We also urge the Department to widely disseminate the updated guidance in an easily-accessible, multilingual format.

Prohibit IHEs from suspending, expelling, and referring to law enforcement students who terminate a pregnancy. Interfering with the ability of students to learn and remain on campus because of pregnancy and any related conditions, including termination of a pregnancy, constitutes a denial of students' rights to equal educational programs and activities under Title IX. In instances where an IHE subjects a student to suspension or expulsion proceedings or refers that student to local authorities because the student may potentially violate state law by terminating their pregnancy, we urge the Department to make the IHE aware that taking either action may place the IHE in violation of Title IX and, if this is the case, jeopardize the IHE's eligibility to receive federal funding.

Increase outreach to students and oversight and investigations of IHEs in violation of Title IX. We request the Department's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) to increase its outreach to Title IX coordinators and students to inform them of their ability to file a complaint with OCR for a perceived violation of their Title IX rights. Although we recognize that the Department may not have comprehensive data on pregnant and parenting students and students who have terminated their pregnancy, we are confident that expanding direct outreach to all students will boost the Department's ability to effectively conduct oversight and investigate perceived Title IX violations against students who are pregnant or have terminated their pregnancy. Additionally, we urge the Department to conduct oversight and investigations through OCR to identify and take enforcement actions against IHEs that neglect, willfully or otherwise, to provide adequate protection and care to pregnant and parenting students on campus in accordance with Title IX. We specifically ask that OCR target in its investigatory and enforcement activities IHEs in states with restrictive reproductive laws that suspend, expel, or refer to law enforcement students who terminate their pregnancy, visit an in-state or out-of-state healthcare provider for an abortion consultation, or seek contraceptive care.

Request assurances from IHEs, including those claiming a religious exemption to Title IX, about how they will protect students who are pregnant and how they will address disparate enforcement of Title IX. We urge that you ask all IHEs, including those that routinely claim a religious exemption from specific provision(s) within Title IX, for details about how they plan to comply with Title IX related to pregnancy, related conditions, and termination of pregnancy. We also urge you to provide guidance to IHEs, including those claiming and receiving a religious exemption to provision(s) in Title IX, about how these institutions can better provide accommodations for students who might be pregnant. The inequitable, discriminatory nature of IHEs claiming religious exemptions and the series of recent lawsuits against the Department for issuing these exemptions to Title IX's broad federal antidiscrimination mandate[6] raise concerns about the ability and willingness of these same institutions to provide care and support to their pregnant students and students who might choose to terminate their pregnancy. Similarly, we are also concerned about the potential for disparate enforcement by IHEs, including those that claim a religious exemption, in cases where they choose to subject a pregnant student to disciplinary action. Specifically, the burdens and consequences associated with pregnancy and childbirth, or termination of a pregnancy, are often disproportionately felt by the people who are pregnant rather than by the people who impregnated them. Disciplinary proceedings targeting only pregnant students can result in disparate outcomes for those students and a subsequent Title IX violation from the IHE for failing to uphold gender equity in access to educational opportunities. As such, we urge the Department to ask IHEs about how they plan to investigate or consider disparate treatment between people of different sexes and genders in the application of Title IX and its underlying code of conduct in cases relating to pregnancy and the termination of a pregnancy.

Clarify how Dobbs interacts with other privacy laws affecting students. As you know, college students' educational and health records, respectively, are protected and made private by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Given the complex interaction between Title IX, FERPA, and Dobbs, as well as between Title IX and state laws, we seek clarification on which laws will continue protecting students' rights to privacy and, ultimately, equal educational opportunities – particularly in states with restrictive reproductive laws. We encourage the Department to coordinate and align with the Department of Health and Human Services in clarifying and interpreting the legal intersections between Dobbs, Title IX, and HIPAA. We are encouraged by the impending guidance from HHS to address how the HIPAA Privacy Rule guarantees the privacy of individuals' protected health information and decisions, as outlined in President Biden's recent Executive Order protecting reproductive rights.[7] We seek further information on whether these protections will continue to apply for students at on-campus health facilities. For example, if a student visits an on-campus health center to access reproductive care, including contraceptives or a referral to an abortion provider, we seek clarification about whether that student's conversation with their campus health care provider remains confidential and subject to HIPAA, or whether certain states would be able to access the information to use in disciplinary or legal proceedings against the student. Additionally, if a student terminates their pregnancy and informs an academic counselor or mental health care provider employed by the IHE of their decision, we seek clarification on whether that student's conversation with the employee will be protected by FERPA.

The Supreme Court's disregard for reproductive freedom jeopardizes equal access to opportunity, bodily autonomy, and academic and professional flexibility for millions of women across our nation. With the legal ambiguity surrounding the effects of Dobbs in many states and the critical role of the Department in upholding civil rights in education, we urge immediate and deliberate action. We appreciate your timely response to these questions and look forward to our continued work together to protect students and uphold justice.

###

[1] Quilantan, B. (2022, June 24). Colleges aren't prepared for Roe's Fall. POLITICO. Retrieved July 11, 2022, from https://www.politico.com/news/2022/06/24/roe-decision-colleges-pregnant-students-00042246

[2]United States Department of Education . (n.d.). Beginning postsecondary students longitudinal study (BPS) - overview. National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Retrieved July 11, 2022, from https://nces.ed.gov/surveys/bps/

[3]Opening Doors for Young Parents. The Annie E. Casey Foundation. (2018, September 25). Retrieved July 11, 2022, from https://www.aecf.org/resources/opening-doors-for-young-parents

[4]Title IX Legal Manual - Discriminatory Conduct. Justia. (2022, June 23). Retrieved July 11, 2022, from https://www.justia.com/education/docs/title-ix-legal-manual/discriminatory-conduct/, United States Department of Education. (2020, January 16). Pregnancy or parental status. Office for Civil Rights (OCR). Retrieved July 11, 2022, from https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/frontpage/pro-students/issues/sex-issue03.html

[5]United States Department of Education. (2020, January 10). Know Your Rights: Pregnant or Parenting? Title IX Protects You From Discrimination At School. Office for Civil Rights (OCR). Retrieved July 11, 2022, from https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/dcl-know-rights-201306-title-ix.html

[6]Redden, E. (2021, April 6). Religious Freedom vs. Freedom From Discrimination. Inside Higher Ed. Retrieved July 11, 2022, from https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2021/04/06/lgbt-students-sue-education-department-over-title-ix-religious-exemption

[7]Fact sheet: President Biden to sign executive order protecting access to Reproductive Health Care Services. The White House. (2022, July 8). Retrieved July 11, 2022, from https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/07/08/fact-sheet-president-biden-to-sign-executive-order-protecting-access-to-reproductive-health-care-services/",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-funding-10-bonamici-community-projects,House Passes Funding For 10 Bonamici Community Projects,2022-07-20,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. [07/20/22] –Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) announced that ten of the Community Projects she selected passed the House, totaling more than $25.6 million for NW Oregon.

This week the House passed H.R. 8294, appropriations funding for Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies; Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies; Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies; Financial Services and General Government; Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies; and Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies. The legislation will now move to the Senate.

""I'm grateful that the House approved funding I requested for ten community projects that will make our communities stronger, safer, and more equitable,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""These projects, submitted by Oregonians, will help meet community needs while strengthening our economy. Combating the climate crisis and expanding access to affordable housing are top priorities in my work, and these projects reflect my commitment to putting forward real solutions to address the challenges we face. I will continue working to get the funding for these projects over the finish line in the Senate.""

Bonamici advocated for 15 projects in total. The remaining five projects will be considered on the House Floor soon.

The ten projects included in H.R. 8294 are:

Beaverton Downtown Loop

City of Beaverton

$4,000,000

Capacity Building

West Tuality Habitat for Humanity

$750,000

Columbia County Advanced and Additive Manufacturing Small Business Incubator

Columbia County Economic Team

$814,000

Dartmouth Crossing South-Tigard Triangle

REACH Community Development Corp

$1,500,000

Fairfield Apartments

City of Portland

$2,000,000

Hall Boulevard Pedestrian Safety Improvements at Hemlock & Spruce

Oregon Department of Transportation

$3,200,000

Main Avenue/OR 104 Pedestrian Route

City of Warrenton

$1,360,000

Merlo Bus Garage Zero Emission Retrofit

TriMet

$5,000,000

Newberg Dundee Bypass Corridor Safety and Intersection Improvements

Oregon Department of Transportation

$4,000,000

Willamette Water Supply System

Tualatin Valley Water District

$3,000,000

Under the rules of the House Appropriations Committee, Members of Congress could each submit up to 15 Community Project Funding requests for consideration during the fiscal year 2023 appropriations legislative process. The reformed and transparent Community Project Funding process allows Members of Congress to advocate for specific community financial support in a local, highly competitive process. You can find more information on Bonamici's website about the ten Community Projects she supported this fiscal year: Bonamici.House.Gov/CommunityProjects",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/nutrition-leaders-introduce-comprehensive-proposal-address-and-prevent-child,Nutrition Leaders Introduce Comprehensive Proposal to Address and Prevent Child Hunger,2022-07-20,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Chairman Robert C. ""Bobby"" Scott (VA-03) and Civil Rights and Human Services Subcommittee Chair Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) introduced a comprehensive, evidence-driven reauthorization of federal child nutrition programs that meets the needs of children and families.

The Healthy Meals, Healthy Kids Act builds on Congressional Democrats' work to expand school and summer meal programs, increase access to federal nutrition programs like the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and prevent child hunger.

""One of the key lessons reaffirmed by our response to the COVID-19 pandemic is that, when we invest in child nutrition programs, we help reduce child hunger. In fact, from January 2021 through April 2021, food shortage rates among households with children fell by more than 40 percent—thanks to the investments in several COVID-19 relief packages. Even still, we know we have more work ahead to achieve our ultimate goal—eliminating child hunger in America. The Healthy Meals, Healthy Kids Act takes long overdue steps to deliver on that goal by modernizing proven child nutrition programs and providing more children and families with access to nutrition assistance. This is a critical opportunity to help fulfill our basic responsibility to keep children from going hungry,"" said Chairman Scott.

""It's hard for students to learn when they are hungry,"" said Chair Bonamici. ""By updating the child nutrition laws, Congress can get children the healthy meals they need to learn and grow. At a time when too many families are still struggling to put food on the table, the Healthy Kids, Healthy Meals Act will increase access to school meals, expand eligibility for nutrition programs, and make sure children are fed during summer breaks. I'm glad to partner with Chairman Scott on this important effort to address child hunger, and will do all I can to get this over the finish line for children and their families.""

Even before the pandemic, more than 2.7 million households with children did not have reliable access to nutritious food. Moreover, the pandemic worsened pre-existing inequities in food insecurity. Both Black and Hispanic households with children reported food insecurity at rates roughly twice that of white households with children throughout the pandemic.

The Healthy Meals, Healthy Kids Act will help address both pre-existing inequities as well as food insecurity spurred by the pandemic. Specifically, the legislation will:

Expand access to school meals,

Preserve the future of school meal programs,

Modernize the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC),

Address food insecurity during the summer,

Improve school meal capacity and sustainability, and

Strengthen the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).

Read the fact sheet for the Healthy Meals, Healthy Kids Act here.

Read the section by section for the Healthy Meals, Healthy Kids Acthere.

Read the bill text for the Healthy Meals, Healthy Kids Acthere

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-kilmer-introduce-legislation-improve-federal-work-study-program,"Bonamici, Kilmer Introduce Legislation to Improve Federal Work Study Program",2022-07-13,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [07/13/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Chair of the Education and Labor Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Human Services, and Congressman Derek Kilmer (D-WA) introduced legislation to update the Federal Work Study Program.

The Opportunities for Success Act improves the Federal Work Study Program to better provide low-income students with an affordable higher education and valuable work experience. It would expand access to career-related employment, increase funding, and update the Federal Work Study funding formula to benefit the students who need it most.

""The Federal Work Study Program has tremendous potential to help students afford college while obtaining work experience,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""I benefitted from Work Study, and it helped me pay for college and develop my career path. I am glad to work with Rep. Kilmer to introduce The Opportunities for Success Act, which will improve the Federal Work Study Program to better serve students.""

""Education is the door to economic opportunity, and for a lot of families — including mine — financial aid can be the key to that door. Financial aid helps people get an education, which in turn, means more qualified workers for employers in our region, and bigger paychecks for folks,"" said Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06). ""By modernizing the Federal Work Study program, this bill will give more students the ability to learn new skills that can lead to a career – and give local businesses access to workers they need.""

The legislation is supported by JFF, Generation Progress at CAP, National Skills Coalition, The Institute for College Access and Success (TICAS), and Third Way.

""JFF supports the Opportunities for Success Act and Earning Experience Act,"" said Mary Gardner Clagett, JFF's senior director of workforce policy. ""The bills would significantly expand students' opportunities for work-based learning – essential for helping students gain meaningful career exposure and experiences while in school. We must integrate postsecondary education and work to prepare all students for successful transitions into the workforce and to rebuild our nation's talent pipeline. JFF endorses these bills and looks forward to Congressional action in this space.""

""The Opportunities for Success Act and Earning Experience Act will make needed investments in and improvements to the Federal Work-Study program, making paid work opportunities more accessible to students from low-income backgrounds,"" said Jared Bass, senior director for Higher Education at the Center for American Progress. ""We are so thankful to Rep. Bonamici and Rep. Kilmer for their leadership on this issue.""

The Opportunities for Success Act would improve the Federal Work Study Program by:

Investing in low-income students and increasing funding for FWS to $2.5 billion over five years.

Reforming the FWS formula and revising the distribution formula to allocate FWS funds based on the total Pell Grant funding an institution receives relative to other participating institutions as well as their share of total undergraduate and graduate student need across all institutions.

Targeting FWS to low-income students by rewarding institutions that enroll and graduate high numbers of Pell Grant students.

Promoting career readiness by providing additional funding for Job Location and Development programs and requiring institutions to prioritize placing low-income students and FWS students in work-based learning positions.

Improving access to career-related work experience by allowing students to earn FWS wages during periods of non-enrollment and requiring institutions to use at least 7 percent of FWS funds for work-based learning opportunities.

Creating pathways from education to work by authorizing a $30 million dollar work-based pilot program to help connect low-income students to high-quality internships. This grant program is the basis for the Earning Experience Act, also led by Congresswoman Bonamici and Congressman Kilmer.

Enhancing student success by directing the Department of Education to survey FWS and report to Congress to inform further program improvements.

The full text of the legislation can be found here. A summary can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-garcia-introduce-legislation-protect-manufactured-homebuyers,"Bonamici, García Introduce Legislation to Protect Manufactured Homebuyers from Predatory Practices",2022-07-12,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [07/12/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Congressman Jesús ""Chuy"" García (D-IL) introduced legislation to protect manufactured homebuyers from predatory practices.

Manufactured housing can be an affordable option for many individuals and families, but buyers often face hurdles obtaining financing and lack safeguards provided to consumers who are purchasing traditional housing. The Fair Manufactured Housing Lending Act will create a more level playing field for manufactured homebuyers by restoring consumer protections that will, among other things, prevent unscrupulous retailers from diverting borrowers to more expensive, affiliated lenders.

""Predatory lenders should not be able to take advantage of people buying and financing a manufactured home,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""The Fair Manufactured Housing Lending Act will restore buyer safeguards for manufactured housing lending at a time when we desperately need more affordable housing in our communities. We must put an end to unscrupulous practices of sellers and provide manufactured homebuyers with the consumer protections they need when they purchase a home.""

""A home should mean safety and financial security, but predatory home loans prey on those who can least afford it,"" said Congressman Jesús ""Chuy"" García. ""Owners of manufactured housing deserve the same rights and protections as every other homeowner, and it's time to repeal the loophole that leaves them open to exploitation. I'm proud to introduce this bill with Congresswoman Bonamici to do just that.""

The Fair Manufactured Housing Lending Act has been endorsed by: Prosperity Now, National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low-income clients), All Parks Alliance for Change (APAC), Americans for Financial Reform, CASA of Oregon, Center for Responsible Lending, Consumer Action, Consumer Federation of America, National Association of Consumer Advocates, National Housing Law Project, National Low Income Housing Coalition, National Manufactured Home Owners Association, Network for Oregon Affordable Housing, Public Citizen, and Woodstock Institute.

""Manufactured housing is sometimes the only affordable option for folks with lower incomes,"" said Peter Hainley, Executive Director of CASA of Oregon. ""Ensuring that there is a level playing field for folks when they seek financing to buy a home should be of primary importance. There is no reason to treat buyers of manufactured homes any differently than any other type of home buyers. The Fair Manufactured Housing Lending Act ensures that consumers of manufactured homes are protected from predatory lending.""

""The Fair Manufactured Housing Lending Act will help ensure purchasers of manufactured housing have many of the same rights and protections consumers of site-built homes are entitled to,"" said Bill VanVliet, Executive Director of the Network for Oregon Affordable Housing.

A fact sheet about the Fair Manufactured Housing Lending Act can be found here. A copy of the legislation can be found here.

In addition to Bonamici and García the legislation is supported by Representatives Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Madeleine Dean (D-PA), Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) Barbara Lee (D-CA), Carolyn Maloney (D-NY), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Dina Titus (D-NV), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), and Juan Vargas (D-CA).

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:20:25Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/biden-admin-announces-bonamici-backed-funding-coastal-restoration-resilience,"Biden Admin Announces Bonamici-Backed Funding for Coastal Restoration, Resilience",2022-06-29,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [06/29/22] – Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Co-Chair of the House Oceans Caucus and House Estuary Caucus and member of the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, applauded the launch of the Biden-Harris Administration's Climate Ready Coasts initiative.

""Coastal communities face some of the greatest risks from the climate crisis. I applaud the NOAA Climate Ready Coasts initiative, which uses funding I helped secure in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""As Co-Chair of the House Oceans Caucus and Estuary Caucus I've been leading the effort in Congress to invest in coastal restoration, marine debris removal, and research. I look forward to seeing the climate resiliency work that comes out of these grants.

""Restoring our marine, coastal and estuarine habitats doesn't just protect our coastal communities from weather events intensified by the climate crisis. These habitats also store large amounts of carbon, and are a key tool in our fight against the climate crisis. I've championed legislation, like my Blue Carbon for Our Planet Act and the COAST Research Act, to enhance research, protection, and restoration of these vital ecosystems. The funding announced today is a good step toward implementing the comprehensive Climate Action Plan I helped write with my colleagues on the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis. We are already experiencing the dangerous consequences of the climate crisis and must act with urgency.""

More information about the funding can be found here: http://noaa.gov/infrastructure-law",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:13:54Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-condemns-scotus-abortion-decision,Bonamici Condemns SCOTUS Abortion Decision,2022-06-24,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [06/24/22] – Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) issued the following statement following the Supreme Court's decision on Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization to overturn abortion rights.

""The Supreme Court's decision to overturn abortion rights is infuriating, heartbreaking, and dangerous,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""Abortion is health care. Abortion care is essential for the health and well-being of families and communities. I remember the days before Roe v. Wade, when abortions done without medical care could have tragic outcomes – including death. The decision today undermines decades of hard-fought protections for reproductive health and the right to determine when and whether to have a child. Make no mistake, overturning Roe v. Wade will not end abortions; it will make them unsafe. This decision will disproportionately hurt families and individuals who are already struggling, and, unfortunately, it will embolden many states to restrict access to the care people need. Additionally, several justices who joined the majority opinion have made statements claiming that Roe v. Wade is settled law; their action today overruling precedent is a betrayal of the American people's trust and erodes confidence in the Court.

""We will not let this decision stop our fight to make abortion care accessible and available to all. I have helped the House pass legislation to put Roe v. Wade into law, and I will continue doing all I can to get it over the finish line.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-helps-house-pass-historic-bipartisan-gun-violence-prevention-bill,Bonamici Helps House Pass Historic Bipartisan Gun Violence Prevention Bill,2022-06-24,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"[6/24/2022] WASHINGTON D.C. - Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), a member of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, voted to pass the bipartisan gun violence prevention proposal negotiated by the Senate.

""Recently a teacher told me that after Uvalde, she sat down with her students and told them she would take a bullet for them,"" said Congresswoman Bonamici. ""Conversations like this are happening in classrooms across the country, but they shouldn't have to. Congress must provide all students with safe learning environments free from the threat of gun violence. The House has passed a comprehensive slate of gun violence prevention legislation, supported by a majority of the American people, but until now the Senate had not acted. Today, the House passed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which came out of bipartisan Senate negotiations and is a welcome step toward ending the tragedies we have seen far too often. I hope that President Biden signs the bill soon, and I will continue advocating for more policies that make our schools and communities safer.""

The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act strengthens existing gun violence prevention laws, invests in children and family mental health services, and increases funding for schools. The legislation also invests $1 billion in Title IV-A of the Every Student Succeeds Act to increase students' access to safe and healthy schools. More information about the bill can be found here, and Bonamici's full statement for the record on the legislation can be found here.

Earlier in June, Congresswoman Bonamici helped the House pass significant legislation to curb gun violence in the wake of the tragedies in Uvalde, Buffalo, and other communities across the country.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/jacobs-bonamici-and-colleagues-lead-letter-signed-127-house-members-leader,"Jacobs, Bonamici, and Colleagues Lead Letter Signed by 127 House Members to Leader Schumer and Speaker Pelosi Urging Inclusion of Child Care in Reconciliation",2022-06-23,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"[06/23/2022] Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53); Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01), Chair of the Education and Labor Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Human Services; and colleagues sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi urging the Senate to include robust child care investments in any upcoming budget reconciliation package. The letter expresses support for the Child Care Reconciliation Plan spearheaded by Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Tim Kaine (D-VA).

Signed by more than half of the House Democratic Caucus, the letter is co-led by Congressman Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20), founding co-chair of the Pre-K and Child Care Caucus; Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06); Congressman Jim Himes (D-CT-04), Chairman of the Select Committee on Economic Disparity Fairness and Growth; and Congressman Donald McEachin (D-VA-04).

The child care crisis has created significant challenges for families, providers, businesses, and the economy. Over 30% of families lived in child care deserts before the pandemic, and 40% of parents report going into debt to pay for child care. Meanwhile, nearly 10% of child care providers have closed since the start of the pandemic, and child care programs that remain open are struggling to attract and retain staff due to poverty level wages.

The Murray-Kaine Child Care Reconciliation Plan would make historic investments in the nation's child care assistance program, the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), which would expand access to child care to more than one million new children and their families. The proposal includes funding to expand the supply of child care facilities, establish and expand preschool programs, and raise compensation for early childhood educators, including Head Start teachers. Notably, the proposal would create a pilot program to allow participating states to offer child care assistance to families earning up to 250% of state median income and cap families' child care expenses at 7% of family income – priorities supported by the House-passed Build Back Better Act.

The letter is endorsed by the National Women's Law Center (NWLC), MomsRising, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), the National Education Association (NEA), ZERO TO THREE, Save the Children, Center for American Progress (CAP), First Focus Campaign for Children, The Education Trust, AFSCME, and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

""In San Diego and all across the country, the child care crisis is crushing families. My colleagues and I hear from our constituents everyday about the very real cost of this crisis – as parents go into debt to afford their child's care or are forced to leave the workforce altogether – all while child care providers are still struggling to get by,"" said Congresswoman Sara Jacobs. ""Our children, families, and early childhood workforce deserve better. Ending this crisis and fighting for significant investments in our child care system are my top priorities in Congress, which is why I'm so grateful to Senator Murray and Senator Kaine for spearheading this proposal in the Senate, and why I'm proud to be leading my colleagues in the House to support it.""

""As a mom and policymaker, I know that children thrive when they have access to high-quality care and early childhood education,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""We understand the challenges families and providers face, we understand the benefits of quality child care, and we understand that we must take action. I'm glad to join Rep. Jacobs in supporting Chair Murray and Senator Kaine's proposal, which will dedicate funding to increase wages for Head Start staff, expand access to high-quality preschool, and help about one million more children and their families afford the cost of child care. An investment in our care economy must be a fundamental component of upcoming reconciliation legislation. Congress must get this done for our children and their families, for the essential workers caring for them, and for the economy.""

""COVID-19 put a unique burden on Texas's child care providers, who were underpaid and overworked even before the pandemic,"" said Congressman Joaquin Castro. ""As we work to rebuild our nation's Infrastructure of Opportunity, we need to make real investments in child care to help parents get back to work, create good jobs, and set every child up for the future they deserve. I'm proud to join my House colleagues to press for the inclusion of child care and early learning investments in the next reconciliation package.""

""I had my first child while serving in the Air Force, and I was soon confronted with the reality that child care options around my base were limited and expensive,"" said Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan. ""Unfortunately, this hardship was one of the reasons I decided to separate from service. While my experience was tied to my military career, this is not uncommon for women and men in all types of careers and it has only gotten worse. As the Senate considers additional legislation to support working families, we must include a robust child care package. Simply put, affordable child care supports a robust workforce. I'm proud to join my colleagues in this effort to support Pennsylvania families and all Americans as they grow their families and return to the workforce.""

""As we look to get our economy back on track, we cannot leave behind the working families who have struggled to find or afford child care,"" said Congressman Jim Himes. ""This investment offers meaningful support to help parents feel comfortable going back to work, without sacrificing high-quality learning for their children. I'm proud to join my colleagues in calling for Congress to pass this essential proposal.""

""Investing in our children through comprehensive childcare options and early learning education programs is imperative to our continued economic recovery,"" said Congressman A. Donald McEachin. ""Our labor force was drastically impacted by the coronavirus pandemic, as American workers – especially mothers – were forced to leave their jobs to care for their children. By including robust investments for child care in the upcoming reconciliation package, we can lessen the burden families face, help get more Americans back into the workforce, and raise wages for child care workers. I am proud to join my House colleagues in supporting these initiatives outlined by Senators Tim Kaine and Patty Murray. Together, we will continue fighting for better resources and viable alternatives for American families.""

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

Dear Leader Schumer and Speaker Pelosi:

As the Senate continues deliberations on a new economic reconciliation package, we write to express support for the recent Murray-Kaine proposal on child care and early learning investments and urge its inclusion in the reconciliation package. This new proposal will provide children and working families with critical support to access quality, affordable child care and give child care providers additional resources they so desperately need to help get our economy back on track. Leaving child care out of an upcoming reconciliation package is unacceptable. Parents, especially women, need this investment to get back to work, and employers need their workers to have reliable child care.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the child care industry has faced numerous and steep challenges in their work to adequately serve the population most affected by the pandemic. Families were forced to choose between staying home to care for their children or returning to the workforce and relying on inefficient or scarce alternatives. Furthermore, as inflationary pressures increase and families face rising child care prices, this proposal will allow parents, families, and child care workers to offset part of that burden. The funding will allow those parents who have been unable to rejoin the workforce an opportunity to continue their careers, make sure that their children are adequately cared for, and support the existing child care workforce.

Supporting the child care workforce is a matter of both economic and racial justice, as the House recognized when it passed a robust child care package in the Build Back Better Act. Data reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that caregivers earn an average of just $12.24 per hour. And we know that the inadequate wages are disproportionately harmful to the women, and overwhelmingly women of color, who make up the care workforce. According to The Education Trust, Black child care workers earn an average of 78 cents less per hour than their white counterparts, even when controlling for education level. The investments in the Murray-Kaine proposal are long overdue updates that will provide these workers with better access to fair compensation and recognize the importance of their work.

We approve of the balanced approach in the proposal between strengthening existing programs and allowing for innovation. The Murray- Kaine plan will triple resources for the nation's existing child care assistance program, the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). This funding would be available to every state, allowing parents and families across the country to access reliable and effective child care options. According to the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), more than 1 million new children and their families could receive child care assistance to lower their costs through the plan's CCDBG investment. Additionally, we support the proposal's dedicated funding for increasing wages for Head Start staff, expanding access to high-quality preschool, expanding the supply of high-quality child care, and improving compensation for the early childhood workforce—priorities supported in the House's Build Back Better Act.

We are also particularly supportive of the proposal's creation of a pilot program that allows some states to test a child care system in which a broader set of low- and middle-income families will not pay more than 7 percent of their income for child care for children under age six. This pilot will incentivize innovation and reform that is desperately needed in the field.

As parents look to return to the workforce and workers in all industries aim to deal with inflationary price increases, child care funding remains crucial to fostering a strong care and early education system and strengthening our economy. Thank you for your consideration of our request, we look forward to working with you on this important initiative.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/maloney-bonamici-menendez-warren-introduce-legislation-stop-anti-abortion,"Maloney, Bonamici, Menendez, Warren Introduce Legislation to Stop Anti-Abortion Disinformation by Crisis Pregnancy Centers",2022-06-23,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"[06/23/2022] WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswomen Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) and Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) today introduced the Stop Anti-Abortion Disinformation (SAD) Act, to crack down on false advertising related to abortion services. This bill directs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to prohibit deceptive or misleading advertising related to the provision of abortion services. The bill also authorizes the FTC to enforce these rules and collect penalties from organizations in violation.

""No one should have to question that the person they are seeking medical advice from is actually a doctor or that information is accurate, objective, and complete,"" said Congresswoman Maloney. ""It is truly disgusting that reproductive rights are being threatened and attacked by crisis pregnancy centers whose guiding principle is to mislead, misinform, and outright lie to pregnant people in order to dissuade them from having an abortion. It is long past time that we prohibit these predatory tactics to undermine reproductive rights. This legislation cracks down on disinformation by simply requiring the FTC to ensure honesty for those that advertise reproductive healthcare.""

""At a time when reproductive rights are under attack, it is especially important for anyone seeking abortion care to be able to find a provider they can trust,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""Crisis pregnancy centers often engage in deceptive advertising to get people in, then mislead them about the services they provide. The Stop Anti-Abortion Disinformation Act would prohibit this egregious behavior so people looking for care get accurate information.""

""With women's reproductive rights under a coordinated attack by Republicans across the country, it is more important than ever that women continue to have access to trusted information and comprehensive reproductive health care services,"" said Sen. Bob Menendez. ""By promoting deceptive or misleading advertisements about abortion services, crisis pregnancy centers jeopardize women's health and well-being, all while elevating unproven theories about birth control and contraceptive care. Our bicameral legislation would help address this problem by allowing the Federal Trade Commission to crack down on these centers for their misleading tactics and hold them accountable for their actions.""

""With a far-right Supreme Court poised to overturn Roe v. Wade, it's more important than ever to crack down on so-called ""crisis pregnancy centers"" that mislead women about reproductive health care. I'm working in the Senate to stop these deceptive practices and ensure every American can access the abortion care they need,"" said Senator Warren.

""The fake clinics known as CPCs have a long history of suggesting – or outright claiming – that they offer comprehensive reproductive health care services,"" said Power to Decide CEO Raegan McDonald-Mosley, MD, MPH. ""In fact, they are typically run by anti-abortion organizations, often with no certified medical staff, and no intention of providing either abortion care or birth control. Instead, they push inaccurate, incomplete and stigmatizing information, and few if any clinical services. Even more troubling, the majority of CPCs are located in communities where it is already difficult to access abortion or other essential health care. People in these communities face additional barriers to care when they find themselves in a fake clinic that fails to provide them with medically accurate and complete information about their own pregnancies and health care options. At a time when so many stand to lose access to abortion care, we must put a stop to the fraudulent practices of CPCs that deceive and delay time-sensitive, essential care.""

She continued, ""We at Power to Decide thank Representatives Maloney and Bonamici, and Senators Warren and Menendez for introducing this critically important bill, and all of the legislative champions working to ensure that everyone has equitable access to the information they need to protect their reproductive autonomy, health and well-being.""

""Access to comprehensive medical care, including abortion, is essential for people's health, safety, and wellbeing. People must be able to receive the full spectrum of medical care without the fear of being manipulated by misleading, inaccurate, or biased information,"" said Iffath Abbasi Hoskins, MD, FACOG, President of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. ""As states move to ban and criminalize abortion care, it is critical that people who need abortions are able to access evidence-based, non-judgmental health information from qualified professionals, not crisis pregnancy centers that use deceptive advertising and misinformation to spread their ideology. We are grateful to Representative Carolyn Maloney for her leadership in counteracting misinformation surrounding abortion care.""

""So-called ‘crisis pregnancy centers' masquerade as abortion providers but deliberately deceive pregnant people through lies, disinformation, and anti-abortion propaganda,"" said Jamie L. Manson, President of Catholics for Choice. ""These fraudulent clinics, nearly all of which are religiously affiliated and many of which are Catholic, exist to coerce people – but coercion is not healthcare.""

She continued, ""To make matters even worse, CPCs actively target marginalized people who already face the highest barriers to accessing abortion care – particularly the Black, Latina, Indigenous, Asian American, Pacific Islander, and immigrant communities. They trick folks into believing they are receiving legitimate healthcare, but in fact have no medical professionals on staff. Too often, they provide no prenatal testing, putting both the pregnant person and the pregnancy at great risk. Catholics for Choice thanks Congresswoman Maloney for introducing the Stop Anti-Abortion Disinformation (SAD) Act to address these dangerous fake clinics and looks forward to working with her to advance this critical legislation.""

""Every day, pregnant people seeking information are harmed by the dangerous and deceptive tactics of fake reproductive health clinics,"" said Sheila Katz, CEO of the National Council of Jewish Women. ""National Council of Jewish Women New York Section has long been at the forefront of this issue through their work on ‘Pro Truth,' a coalition of reproductive rights advocates, policy makers, and service providers, united to fight fake abortion clinics that has also expanded to Florida. Everyone deserves to seek and receive accurate information about all their options if they are pregnant. We thank Representative Maloney and Representative Bonamici for introducing the Stop Anti-Abortion Disinformation Act to help pregnant people get the information and care they need.""

""Communities of color, including the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, have long been targeted by misinformation from crisis pregnancy centers advertising in their native language,"" said Yvonne Hsu, Chief Policy and Government Affairs Officer at the National Asian Pacific American Women' Forum (NAPAWF). ""They take advantage of the intrinsic trust that comes from speakers of the same language to mislead and prevent people from getting the care that they need. Despite an arduous path to abortion care for the AAPI community — filled with language barriers, cultural stigmas, and low rates of insurance coverage for our most vulnerable members - a third of AAPI pregnancies end in abortion. We are so grateful for Rep. Maloney's leadership to put an end to these deceptive practices.""

""When someone is denied the sacred right to make decisions about their own body and reproduction, their reproductive dignity and religious freedom are violated. The use of deceptive advertising by crisis pregnancy centers to suggest they perform abortions—which they don't—is meant to trick, confuse, and manipulate those seeking abortion care and further rob them of their full decision-making power. This is a travesty, and the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice (RCRC) supports the Stop Anti-Abortion Disinformation Act,"" said Rev. Katey Zeh, CEO of Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice.

Full text of the bill can be found here.

This legislation is supported by: Planned Parenthood Federation of America, NARAL Pro-Choice America, Center for Reproductive Rights, Advocates for Youth, American Atheists, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Public Health Association, American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Brooklyn for Reproductive and Gender Equity, Catholics for Choice, Clearinghouse on Women's Issues, Families USA, Feminist Majority Foundation, Guttmacher Institute, In Your Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda, Jewish Women International, Medical Students for Choice, MomsRising, National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum, National Birth Equity Collaborative, National Council of Jewish Women, National Council of Jewish Women – New York, National Council of Jewish Women – Greater Miami, National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association, National Health Law Program, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, National LGBTQ Task Force Action Fund, National Organization for Women, National Partnership for Women and Families, National Women's Health Network, Nurses for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund of Massachusetts, Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts, Population Institute, Power to Decide, Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, Reproductive Equity Now, Sexuality Information Education Council of the U.S., SisterReach, and United for Reproductive & Gender Equity

Original co-sponsors include:

Representatives Carolyn B. Maloney, Suzanne Bonamici, Jake Auchincloss, Nanette Barragán, Karen Bass, Earl Blumenauer, Jamaal Bowman, Anthony Brown, Cori Bush, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Yvette D. Clarke, Gerald E. Connolly, Danny K. Davis, Madeleine Dean, Peter DeFazio, Diana DeGette, Ted Deutch, Veronica Escobar, Anna Eshoo, Adriano Espaillat, Dwight Evans, Lizzie Fletcher, Lois Frankel, Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García, Raúl Grijalva, Sheila Jackson Lee, Sara Jacobs, Pramila Jayapal, Hank Johnson, Mondaire Jones, Anne Kuster, Brenda Lawrence, Barbara Lee, Andy Levin, Ted Lieu, Alan Lowenthal, Tom Malinowski, Betty McCollum, Grace Meng, Gwen Moore, Marie Newman, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Chellie Pingree, Mark Pocan, Katie Porter, Ayanna Pressley, David Price, Jackie Speier, Haley Stevens, Marilyn Strickland, Mark Takano, Dina Titus, Rashida Tlaib, Marc Veasey, Nydia Velázquez, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Peter Welch, and Nikema Williams

Senators Bob Menendez, Elizabeth Warren, Richard Blumenthal, Cory Booker, Diane Feinstein, Kristen Gillibrand, Mazie Hirono, Amy Klobuchar, Ed Markey, Jeff Merkley, Patty Murray, Bernie Sanders, Brian Schatz, Tina Smith, Mark Warner, and Ron Wyden

BACKGROUND:

Every year, thousands of pregnant people seeking objective and medically sound reproductive health care end up walking crisis pregnancy centers (CPCs). These clinics falsely and deliberately advertise themselves to potential clients as comprehensive reproductive health care providers; however, their intent is to discourage pregnant people from having abortions.

CPCs routinely use a variety of deceptive tactics, including making false claims about reproductive health care and disseminating inaccurate, misleading, and stigmatizing information about abortion and contraception. Additionally, most CPCs in the United States do not employ licensed medical personnel or provide referrals for birth control or abortion care.

According to the Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR) Public Health and Surveillance, there are more than 2,500 CPCs in the United States, though some anti-abortion groups claim that the number is closer to 4,000. One study found that, on average, CPCs outnumber abortion clinics nationwide by an average of 3 to 1, but in some states, the ratio is as high as 11 to 1.

The SAD Act does the following:

Directs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to issue rules to prohibit deceptive or misleading advertising related to the provision of abortion services;

Provides the FTC the authority to enforce these rules and collect penalties from organizations in violation;

Requires a report to Congress on enforcement under this Act.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-invites-students-compete-congressional-app-challenge-1,Bonamici Invites Students to Compete in Congressional App Challenge,2022-06-16,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [6/16/22] – Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) is inviting all students who attend middle school or high school in Oregon's First Congressional District to participate in the eighth annual Congressional App Challenge.

Oregon's First Congressional District includes all of Washington, Yamhill, Clatsop, and Columbia counties, as well as part of Multnomah County.

""Learning to code can help students think in different ways and improve their problem-solving skills,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""I appreciate the Congressional App Challenge because it gives students an opportunity to showcase their creativity and knowledge. I am always impressed by the innovative, community-minded ideas our students submit.""

The Congressional App Challenge is a competition for students to use coding and computer science to create and exhibit a software application, or ""app,"" for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice. The competition is an example of STEAM education, in which art and design are integrated into STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math).

Students entering the competition must submit their app by November 1, 2022, as well as provide a public video demo explaining their app and what they learned through the competition process.

A panel of local experts will review the submissions. Winners from each participating congressional district will be acknowledged in a district award ceremony and featured on the House.gov website. There will also be a display in the U.S. Capitol Building to honor the winners from each Congressional district.

More information about the competition, including how to register, is available at /appchallenge

Bonamici is a founder and co-chair of the Congressional STEAM Caucus, which advocates for the integration of the arts and design into science, technology, engineering, and math education to encourage creative thinking and engage more students. By supporting and recognizing young programmers, Congress is acknowledging the importance of these fields. The U.S. House of Representatives organizes the nationwide Congressional App Challenge each year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/science-committee-members-statement-release-harmful-algal-blooms-and-hypoxia,Science Committee Members' Statement on Release of Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia GAO Report,2022-06-16,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – Yesterday, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report on harmful algal blooms (HABs) and hypoxia. The report was originally requested in April 2020 by 11 Members of Congress including Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), Ranking Member Frank Lucas (R-OK), Environment Subcommittee Chair Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ), Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Congressman Charlie Crist (D-FL), Congressman Bill Posey (R-FL), and Congressman Michael Waltz (R-FL). In the report, GAO recommends further action to address harmful algal blooms and hypoxia. GAO specifically calls on the co-chairs of the existing interagency working group, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to address HABs and hypoxia with six recommendations for executive action.

""This report makes it abundantly clear that we must do more to address the threat of harmful algal blooms and hypoxia,"" said the Members. ""These toxic blooms are an environmental challenge across all 50 states of the U.S., and their prevalence, frequency, and severity are increasing. The negative impacts of harmful algal blooms and hypoxia are far reaching, affecting public health, the environment, and our economy. This report will be a key resource as Congress continues to work to address these growing threats and we thank the GAO for its work in putting it together.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-applauds-biden-action-protect-lgbtq-community,Bonamici Applauds Biden Action to Protect LGBTQ Community,2022-06-15,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [06/15/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) praised President Biden's Executive Order to increase protections for the LGBTQ community and expand access to critical services.

The Executive Order mirrors language from Bonamici's Ruthie and Connie LGBTQ Elder Americans Act to help LGBTQ seniors overcome barriers they face to accessing the care and support they need.

""Today is a good day for LGBTQ Americans, including LGBTQ seniors,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""Everyone deserves to age with dignity, and for too long the LGBTQ community has faced increased isolation and poverty in their golden years. I've long advocated for culturally-competent programs and support services for LGBTQ seniors. Today I thank President Biden for signing an Executive Order that reflects the legislation I've led to secure and protect the fundamental rights of LGBTQ seniors. I'm also pleased that the Executive Order includes several meaningful steps to help protect members of the LGBTQ community of all ages, especially youth and transgender students. During this Pride Month and beyond, I'll continue to do all I can to protect the rights of the LGBTQ community. No one should face discrimination because of who they are or who they love.""

""SAGE applauds President Biden's Executive Order, which secures vital protections for LGBTQ+ older people and the wider LGBTQ+ community,"" said SAGE CEO Michael Adams. ""This EO builds on Congresswoman Bonamici's Ruthie and Connie LGBTQ+ Elder Americans Act and takes a critical step forward in protecting and supporting LGBTQ+ elders, who face higher rates of poverty, acute social isolation, and severe challenges accessing culturally competent services and supports. We honor the work of our many LGBTQ+ pioneers, like Ruthie Berman and her late wife Connie Kurtz, whose tireless advocacy made today's Executive Order possible.""

Bonamici led the most recent update to the Older Americans Act, which was signed into law in March 2020 and serves as the backbone of critical programs that support seniors. As Chair of the Civil Rights and Human Services Subcommittee, Bonamici has also been a leader in efforts to pass legislation to protect the LGBTQ community against discrimination in housing, access to credit, and other services. She is also a Vice Chair of the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-fitzpatrick-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-support-whole-child,"Bonamici, Fitzpatrick Introduce Bipartisan Resolution in Support of Whole Child Approach to Education",2022-06-10,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [6/10/22] – Today Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced a bipartisan resolution expressing support for a whole child approach to education in which students are challenged, healthy, safe, and engaged.

H.Res. 1162 recognizes the role of parents, educators, and community members in providing a whole child approach to education for each student and encourages the federal government to coordinate a multisectoral approach to educating youth in the United States.

""Students thrive when they have a well-rounded education that includes arts education, physical activity, mental health support, and more,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""Providing a truly comprehensive education engages students who might struggle otherwise and puts them on a path to long-term success in their personal and professional lives regardless of what path they take. I'm grateful to the village of educators and school support staff who are dedicated to providing children with a quality education, and I will continue doing all I can to support them.""

""Our children are our future, and they deserve a well-rounded education that prioritizes not only reading, writing, and mathematics, but also their physical health, mental well-being, and critical thinking skills,"" said Rep. Fitzpatrick. ""The necessity of educating the whole child, especially in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, has never been more critical. We must holistically challenge and support our students in their learning environments. I look forward to continuing to pursue bipartisan initiatives that will live up to the goals set by this resolution and ensuring that our children are able to thrive in all aspects of their lives.""

""We are grateful to Rep. Bonamici and Rep. Fitzpatrick for their leadership in elevating these important conversations about educating the whole child,"" said ASCD Interim CEO Sandy Husk. ""We know that children thrive most when schools, families, and community-serving agencies come together to ensure continuity of resources both in- and outside of school time.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-deutch-crist-introduce-bill-help-lgbtq-seniors-access-care-services,"Bonamici, Deutch, Crist Introduce Bill to Help LGBTQ Seniors Access Care, Services",2022-06-09,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [06/09/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Ted Deutch (D-FL), and Charlie Crist (D-FL) introduced legislation to help LGBTQ seniors overcome barriers they face to accessing the care and support they need.

The Ruthie and Connie LGBTQ Elder Americans Act will decrease the isolation faced by vulnerable and disadvantaged LGBTQ older adults, improve their health, and increase their access to culturally competent services and supports through programs provided by the Older Americans Act.

""Many of our LGBTQ elders have faced discrimination throughout their lives. Now many are experiencing higher levels of poverty, increased isolation, and other significant challenges in their golden years,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""I'm pleased to lead the Ruthie and Connie LGBTQ Elder Americans Act with Representatives Deutch and Crist so our LGBTQ seniors can finally get the support and care they need. No one should have to worry about whether they will receive needed elder care support and services because of their identity or who they love.""

""No matter where you live, coming out should not threaten your access to long-term care or healthcare. Who you are and whom you love should never increase your risk for social isolation and poverty as you age. But that is the reality for too many LGBTQ seniors in America today,"" said Rep. Deutch. ""We need the Ruthie and Connie LGBTQ Elder Americans Act because the fight for equality continues today, and it continues right here in Congress. We need to make sure that LGBTQ seniors are able to access the services and support they deserve, and that starts here, with this bill.""

""Too many LGBTQ elders forced to fight their entire lives for their rights are now facing challenges aging as their authentic selves,"" said Rep. Charlie Crist. ""We know that LGBTQ Americans have higher rates of isolation, poverty, and poor health outcomes as they age. I am proud to be a part of this effort paying homage to trailblazing Floridians Ruthie Berman and the late Connie Kurtz to support our LGBTQ seniors.""

A one-page summary of the Ruthie and Connie LGBTQ Elder Americans Act can be found here. It is named for Ruthie Berman and Connie Kurtz, long-time advocates for LGBTQ equality. Connie fought for the rights of LGBTQ older adults until her death in 2018. Ruthie, her widow, continues to serve as a champion for the cause.

This legislation is endorsed by SAGE, Human Rights Campaign, National Minority AIDS Council, National Center for Lesbian Rights, MAZON: A Jewish Response To Hunger, Caring Across Generations, and National Center for Transgender Equality.

""As we celebrate Pride and the long history of LGBTQ+ elders leading the movement for equality, we are thrilled to see the reintroduction of the Ruthie and Connie LGBTQ+ Elder Americans Act,"" said Aaron Tax, SAGE's Managing Director of Government Affairs & Policy Advocacy. ""It's been more than 50 years since Stonewall, and it's high time for LGBTQ+ trailblazers like Ruthie to have legislation like this that enables them to access the same aging services and supports as their straight and cisgender counterparts. We commend the leadership of Congresswoman Bonamici and thank each of the electeds who are taking a stand to better protect older LGBTQ+ people across the country.""

""The Older Americans Act is intended to provide services and supports to all aging Americans, but outdated laws continue to place barriers to access and lack of protection for millions of LGBTQ individuals,"" said Nicole Jorwic, Chief of Advocacy and Campaigns, Caring Across Generations. ""This bill would help to ensure that aging LGBTQ individuals and families have full access to the services and protections they deserve. The lack of explicit nondiscrimination protections undermines the goal of programs, and it is vital that aging people in this country can access long-term support services such as Home and Community-Based Supports. We commend Rep. Bonamici for advancing equity in health services for all aging Americans.""

Bonamici, Deutch, and Crist are joined by original cosponsors David Cicilline (D-RI), Mark Takano (D-CA), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Carolyn Maloney (D-NY), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Tony Cárdenas (D-CA), Lois Frankel (D-FL), Henry ""Hank"" Johnson (D-GA), Alan Lowenthal (D-CA), Betty McCollum (D-MN), André Carson (D-IN), Dina Titus (D-NV), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Eric Swalwell (D-CA), Juan Vargas (D-CA), Darren Soto (D-FL), Tom O'Halleran (D-AZ), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), and Mike Quigley (D-IL).

Bonamici led the most recent update to the Older Americans Act, which was signed into law in March 2020. As Chair of the Civil Rights and Human Services Subcommittee, Bonamici has also been a leader in efforts to pass legislation to protect the LGBTQ community against discrimination in housing, access to credit, and other services. She is also a Vice Chair of the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-bonamici-backed-bills-prevent-gun-violence-schools-communities,"House Passes Bonamici-Backed Bills to Prevent Gun Violence in Schools, Communities",2022-06-09,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [06/09/22] – Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), a member of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, helped the House pass significant legislation to curb gun violence in the wake of the tragedies in Uvalde, Buffalo, and other communities across the country.

The House passed the Protecting Our Kids Act to outlaw high-capacity magazines, raise the minimum age to purchase a semi-automatic weapon to 21, require background checks for ghost gun purchases, strengthen safe storage requirements, and close the bump stock loophole. The House also passed the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act, which would allow law enforcement to remove guns from people who are a danger to themselves or others. In 2017 the Oregon Legislature passed a similar law with bipartisan support. Bonamici is a co-sponsor of both pieces of legislation.

""We must take bold action and implement policies that prevent gun violence,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""We have seen too many tragedies like the horrific attack on children and teachers in Uvalde and the racist targeting and murder of grocery shoppers in Buffalo. The House has already passed bipartisan legislation to expand background checks and close loopholes. The Protecting Our Kids Act and Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act include many more commonsense, widely-supported measures that will help keep our loved ones safe. We cannot bring back those who have been murdered, but we can enact meaningful laws that will prevent more senseless deaths. I call on the Senate to follow through on their responsibility to our children and our nation by taking up this legislation immediately.""

More information about the Protecting Our Kids Act can be found here.

Bonamici helped the House pass the bipartisan Background Checks Act (H.R. 8) and the Enhanced Background Checks Act (H.R. 1446) in March 2021. She has repeatedly called on the Senate to repeal the filibuster to allow these commonsense measures to move forward and joined several efforts to urge them to end their inaction on these gun violence prevention proposals.

Additional legislation she has co-sponsored this Congress to prevent gun violence includes:

H.R. 748, Ethan's Law, regarding safe storage of firearms and supporting state and Tribal governments implementing similar laws.

H.R. 825, the Gun Violence Prevention Research Act, to support the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention researching gun violence.

H.R. 881, the Recognizing Gun Violence as a Public Health Emergency Act, to require the Surgeon General to report annually to Congress on the public health effects of gun violence and the status of actions taken to address those effects.

H.R. 1007, the Hadiya Pendleton and Nyasia Pryear-Yard Gun Trafficking and Crime Prevention Act, making it a federal crime to traffic firearms.

H.R. 1560, the Resources for Victims of Gun Violence Act, establishing an interagency Advisory Council to share information on better serving victims of gun violence.

H.R.2282, the Gun Records Restoration and Preservation Act, repealing federal laws that prevent the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) from properly administering the background checks program and sharing data.

H.R. 2377, the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act, to keep guns out of the hands of those who pose a threat to themselves or others by implementing a nationwide extreme risk law and encouraging states to enact their own extreme risk laws.

H.R. 2814, the Equal Justice for Victims of Gun Violence Act, repealing civil immunity for gun manufacturers.

H.R. 1808, Assault Weapons Ban of 2021, outlawing the possession of dangerous semiautomatic assault weapons and large capacity magazines.

H.R. 2510, Keep America Safe Act, addressing the proliferation of large capacity magazines by prohibiting possession and allowing federal funding to be used for buyback programs by state and local law enforcement.

H.R. 3929, the Disarm Hate Act, prohibiting people convicted of hate crimes from possessing firearms.

H.R. 6717, the Preventing Pretrial Gun Purchases Act, amend federal gun laws to deny gun sales to any person specifically subject to a pretrial release order from a court that prohibits the person from purchasing, possessing, or receiving guns.

H.R. 4118, the Break the Cycle of Violence Act, provide grants to support community violence initiatives.

H.R. 2715, Jamie's Law, requiring background checks for the sale of ammunition.

H.R. 3015, the Raise the Age Act, making 21-years the minimum age to purchase semiautomatic rifles.

H.R. 5428, the School Shooting Safety and Preparedness Act, creates a federal framework for collecting and sharing data on school shootings, which will significantly improve the ability for law enforcement to communicate, track, and respond to these tragedies",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-oceans-caucus-co-chairs-bonamici-gonzalez-colon-recognize-world-oceans,"House Oceans Caucus Co-Chairs Bonamici, González-Colón Recognize World Oceans Day",2022-06-08,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [6/8/22] – Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Jenniffer González-Colón (R-Puerto Rico), Co-Chairs of the House Oceans Caucus, celebrated World Oceans Day by introducing a resolution committing to the stewardship of ocean resources, cultures, and communities, and to increasing investments in scientific research and monitoring to better understand our changing ocean.

In 2008, the United Nations General Assembly designated June 8th as World Oceans Day. The bipartisan resolution introduced today acknowledges that the ocean covers more than 70 percent of the Earth, and that changes in ocean temperature, chemistry and marine debris threaten communities, industries, jobs, and the marine ecosystem.

""We all benefit from a healthy ocean,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""The ocean drives our economy, regulates the climate, and nourishes us. This World Oceans Day, we recognize that our ocean and coastlines are threatened more than ever by the climate crisis, ocean acidification, marine debris, and pollution. I've helped lead the effort in Congress to make significant investments to restore and protect our ocean, but more must be done. I look forward to working with the new Co-Chair of the House Oceans Caucus, Congresswoman González-Colón, to raise awareness about the critical issues that jeopardize the health of our ocean and take needed action to preserve this vital resource for present and future generations.""

""As we commemorate World Oceans Day, it's critical we recommit to advancing bipartisan policies that protect and conserve our marine and coastal resources,"" said Rep. Jenniffer González-Colón. ""I'm proud to join my fellow Co-Chair of the House Oceans Caucus, Congresswoman Bonamici, in introducing this resolution and look forward to working together to support the health and resiliency of our oceans for present and future generations.""

You can read a copy of the resolution here. The resolution is co-sponsored by Representatives Nanette Diaz Barragán, Earl Blumenauer, Lisa Blunt Rochester, Ed Case, Gerald E. Connolly, Jared Huffman, Derek Kilmer, James Langevin, Doris Matsui, and Jimmy Panetta.

Bonamici and González-Colón co-chair the House Oceans Caucus, a bipartisan group of House members committed to taking action to protect the health and future of the ocean. This Congress, the Caucus has been focused on environmental stressors (including ocean acidification, harmful algal blooms, and hypoxia); marine debris; ocean data and monitoring; coastal resiliency; and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. Last year, Congress passed the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which included billions of dollars for coastal restoration, marine debris prevention, mitigation, and removal, and port infrastructure, including initiatives to reduce port pollution.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-announces-gonzalez-colon-new-house-oceans-caucus-co-chair,Bonamici Announces González-Colón as New House Oceans Caucus Co-Chair,2022-05-25,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [5/25/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) announced that Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón (R-Puerto Rico) will join her as the new Co-Chair of the bipartisan House Oceans Caucus.

González-Colón is filling the position formerly held by the late Congressman Don Young (R-AK). Bonamici has served as a Co-Chair of the House Oceans Caucus since 2017.

""Protecting our ocean must be a bipartisan effort,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""Throughout her time in Congress, Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón has shown her commitment to improving the health of our ocean for generations to come. I am pleased to welcome her as my Co-Chair of the House Oceans Caucus. For several years I worked closely with the late Congressman Don Young to pass legislation that is making a positive difference for the ocean, and I look forward to building on that legacy with Congresswoman González-Colón.""

""In Puerto Rico, we know firsthand the importance of protecting our oceans. Marine resources support our economy, enhance our resilience to natural disasters, and provide critical habitat for fish and wildlife. This is why I've long supported efforts to safeguard the health of our oceans and marine ecosystems, including legislation to restore our coral reefs and tackle erosion along our coasts; improve ocean data, monitoring, and research capabilities; combat marine debris; and strengthen ocean and coastal conservation programs,"" said Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón. ""I'm thrilled to join Congresswoman Bonamici as Co-Chair of the House Oceans Caucus to continue working on these and other initiatives to help address the most pressing issues facing our coastal communities. I'm also honored to be following in the footsteps of my friend and mentor, the late Congressman Don Young of Alaska, and look forward to continuing his bipartisan work to protect our oceans for future generations.""

The House Oceans Caucus is a bipartisan group of House members committed to protecting the health of the ocean. The Caucus is focused on environmental stressors (including ocean acidification, harmful algal blooms, and hypoxia); marine debris; ocean data and monitoring; coastal resiliency; and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.

""As Puerto Rico's Representative, Representative González-Colón understands the magnitude and urgency of the challenges facing our oceans and coasts. She has long been a champion for our ocean and the communities that rely on it. We are pleased to see her stepping into the role of Co-Chair of the House Oceans Caucus, and look forward to working closely with her to protect our oceans and coasts."" –Kathy Tsantiris, Associate Director of Government Relations at Ocean Conservancy

""The Oceans Caucus Foundation is excited to welcome Representative Jenniffer González-Colón as the new House Oceans Caucus Co-Chair. Her leadership in support of critical oceans issues like coral reef conservation, marine debris, and prioritizing ocean data collection and technology make her well-suited for this role. We very much look forward to working with her and her staff as we continue to uplift key oceans issues and work to educate Congress on oceans conservation and management."" – Oceans Caucus Foundation

""We are thrilled to have Representative González-Colón join the leadership of the House Oceans Caucus. Reserves rely on the Caucus to ensure that the need for the work we do is understood and supported by all members of Congress. We are confident that she will work with her Co-Chair, Representative Bonamici, to elevate coastal and ocean issues and make certain that our communities receive the full benefit of coastal programs."" – Rebecca Roth, executive director for the National Estuarine Research Reserve Association.

""We thank Rep. Bonamici for her vision, passion, and deep understanding of the importance of coastal science and observations, as well as her leadership focusing attention on coastal issues by co-chairing the House Ocean Caucus. The Caucus has been effective in addressing coastal issues affecting communities and ecosystems, including highlighting the need for sustained, reliable, and accessible coastal observing data, forecasts, and information. We look forward to working with Rep Gonzalez-Colon in this new position to ensure coastal communities have the information they need to plan, adapt, and respond to a changing coastal ocean."" – Jan Newton, Director, Northwest Association of Networked Ocean Observing Systems, and Julio Morell, Director, Caribbean Coastal Ocean Observing System

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-helps-house-pass-bill-crack-down-gas-price-gouging,Bonamici Helps House Pass Bill to Crack Down on Gas Price Gouging,2022-05-19,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [5/19/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) helped the House pass legislation to crack down on gas price gouging and excessive price increases by oil companies.

""While prices at the pump have been soaring over recent months, oil and gas companies have been raking in record profits and sending large dividends to their shareholders,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""I'm glad the House passed legislation to prevent price gouging at the pump. As long as we remain dependent on fossil fuels, we will be at the mercy of the oil and gas industry. We must transition to renewable energy for the sake of our economy and our planet.""

The four largest oil companies have made $27 billion in profits during the first quarter of 2022, as gas prices continue to rise in Oregon and across the country. The Consumer Fuel Price Gouging Prevention Act would grant the president the power to issue an emergency energy proclamation outlawing the sale of consumer fuels – fuel for cars and airplanes as well as home heating oil and liquid propane – at artificially high prices during the emergency period. It would also increase oversight and accountability by strengthening the FTC's authority over the energy market.

A fact sheet with more details about H.R., 7688 Consumer Fuel Price Gouging Prevention Act can be found here.

If you have experienced price gouging in Oregon, you can file a complaint by calling the Oregon Attorney General's Consumer Protection Hotline at 503-378-8442.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-merkley-introduce-bicameral-legislation-ban-asbestos-and-save-lives,"Bonamici, Merkley Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Ban Asbestos and Save Lives",2022-05-18,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon's Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici and U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley today introduced the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2022, legislation to prohibit the manufacture, processing, use, and distribution in commerce of commercial asbestos.

""It is long past time for the United States to ban asbestos,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""It is unacceptable that this known carcinogen continues to threaten our communities. I am pleased to reintroduce the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act with Senator Merkley to protect workers and families by finally banning the importation, manufacture, and distribution of asbestos.""

""Too many Americans have sat at the bedside watching helplessly as their loved ones die from asbestos. This is totally avoidable if America just bans it,"" said Senator Merkley. ""We've known for generations that asbestos is lethal, yet some industries' profits have been valued over the lives of firefighters, construction workers, and other Americans exposed to this toxic substance. Other developed nations have already acted to protect their citizens from this deadly substance by banning asbestos. Why has America not done the same? Congresswoman Bonamici and I know it's long past time for America to end this dangerous public health threat once and for all.""

Merkley and Bonamici have been longtime advocates for banning asbestos and have tirelessly fought to introduce legislation that would keep this toxic poison away from consumers. The Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2022 will ban the importation and use of all six of the recognized asbestos fibers, expanding on the EPA's recent proposed rulemakingwhich will only ban one.

Full bill text can be found here.

""ADAO applauds Senator Jeff Merkley and Representative Suzanne Bonamici for their unwavering dedication, leadership and perseverance to protect Americans from deadly asbestos, a man-made disaster that kills nearly 40,000 people each year,"" said Linda Reinstein, ADAO President and Cofounder. ""Building on the previous landmark legislative steps and successes, the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2022 deserves to get the full attention of Congress and fast tracked to President Biden's desk for immediate enactment. Named after my late husband, Alan, their bill represents the hundreds of thousands of ""Alans"" throughout our nation who have been harmed or silenced by asbestos, a carcinogen we have known is deadly since at least the 60s.""

""Now that ARBAN has been moved forward, as a physician who has spent more than fifty years working around the world on asbestos issues, I am hopeful the banning of asbestos here in America will take place, joining some seventy other countries, and that we can protect lives moving forward since we know such bans lead, over time, to less disease among all those exposed,"" said Arthur L. Frank MD, PhD, Co-Chair of the ADAO Scientific Advisory Board

""The science is clear that there is no safe level of exposure to asbestos. Asbestos causes mesothelioma and cancer of the lung, larynx and ovaries. Exposure to asbestos is also strongly associated with asbestosis and pleural disease. We thank Senator Merkley and Representative Bonamici for introducing the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2022. If enacted, the legislation would be a significant step forward to protecting the health of workers and communities by reducing exposure to asbestos,"" said Georges C. Benjamin, MD, MACP, Executive Director of American Public Health Association.

""Cancer is the single greatest threat to America's fire fighters and the leading cause of death among our hometown heroes. Our fire fighters suffer from asbestos caused cancers and diseases at more than twice the rate of the average American, and therefore the IAFF is steadfastly supporting the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act (ARBAN Act),"" said Edward A. Kelly, General President of the International Association of Fire Fighters. ""A national ban on the importation, distribution, and use of asbestos is long overdue. I am proud to endorse the ARBAN Act as introduced by Senator Jeff Merkley and Representative Suzanne Bonamici. I thank them for their continued strong support of our brother and sister fire fighters and our IAFF as we continue our battle to eliminate occupational cancers.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-bonamici-backed-bill-support-workers-increase-local-job,"House Passes Bonamici-Backed Bill to Support Workers, Increase Local Job Opportunities",2022-05-17,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [5/17/22] – Today the House passed legislation backed by Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Chair of the Education and Labor Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Human Services, to update and strengthen the landmark Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.

Video of Bonamici's remarks in support of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022 (WIOA) on the House floor can be viewed here.

""I rise in strong support of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022. This important legislation improves the existing statute in several critical ways,"" Bonamici said on the House floor. ""First, this legislation formally authorizes sector partnerships. I have witnessed the significant benefits of sector partnerships, and one persuasive example in NW Oregon is the Oregon Manufacturing Innovation Center (OMIC), which develops and applies advanced metals manufacturing technologies in their R&D center, while educating an advanced manufacturing workforce in their training center run by Portland Community College. OMIC is an outstanding example of how sector partnerships between industry, higher education, and government can create new R&D outcomes, prepare workers, and fuel local economies.

""Second, this legislation will improve access to supportive services like access to tools, work attire, transportation, child care, and mentorship, which are crucial to helping workers stay in their training and in their workplace and to thrive.

""Third, this legislation will define and formally authorize funding for pre-apprenticeship programs. In Oregon, we have tremendous, successful programs like Oregon Tradeswomen that prepare women for careers in the trades through pre-apprenticeships. Despite the success of this program and others, funding has been extremely low. This legislation will help expand these life-changing programs and set participants up for success in apprenticeships and beyond. And these are lifechanging.

""And importantly, this legislation will make Job Corps more inclusive by requiring Job Corps center operators to implement a tiered disciplinary system instead of adhering to a zero-tolerance drug policy. It would expand the definition of ‘individuals with barriers to employment' to include historically disadvantaged communities. These changes will modernize Job Corps in important ways and it will better meet the needs of all communities.

""I urge my colleagues to support this WIOA reauthorization to help close the skills gap and to address the needs of working Americans. I again thank Chairman Scott for his leadership in bringing this important bill to the floor.""

Bonamici supported the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act when it passed Congress in 2014, and has repeatedly led efforts to increase funding for its programs, including calling for a $15.1 billion investment in workforce funding during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bonamici's PARTNERS Act, which will help small- and medium-sized businesses create partnerships to improve workforce training, recently passed the House as part of the America COMPETES Act.

A fact sheet with more details about the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022 can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-bipartisan-update-anti-poverty-program-led-bonamici-thompson,"House Passes Bipartisan Update to Anti-Poverty Program Led by Bonamici, Thompson",2022-05-13,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [5/13/22] – Today the House passed bipartisan legislation led by Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Congressman Glenn ""GT"" Thompson (R-PA) to update the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) program.

The CSBG program has not been updated since 1998. The grants support more than 1,000 Community Action Agencies (CAAs), which have been providing holistic assistance to low-income individuals and communities across the country for more than 50 years. According to the most recent available data, in FY2019 CAAs served more than 9.6 million people with low incomes – including nearly 5 million families—across the U.S.

""Millions of families and individuals across the country benefit from local anti-poverty programs and services backed by the Community Services Block Grant program,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, Chair of the Education and Labor Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Human Services. ""I'm pleased that the House passed this overdue update to CSBG with strong bipartisan support. Our legislation will better help low-income individuals and families achieve economic stability and access housing, child care, utility assistance, employment, and other services. Now the Senate must take up this legislation to modernize and strengthen one of our nation's most important anti-poverty programs so Community Action Agencies can continue to meet the unique needs of our communities.""

""The Community Services Block Grant is the only federal program with the explicit and overreaching goal of reducing poverty, regardless of its cause,"" Rep. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson said. ""Virtually every county in the United States has a Community Action Agency, which work to help low-income individuals and families move from poverty to independence. CSBG has not been reauthorized in more than two decades, and today's bipartisan vote renewed our commitment to reducing poverty and strengthening communities across the country.""

""All of America's communities owe a debt of gratitude to Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici and to Congressman Glenn Thompson for their tireless efforts in passing the bipartisan Community Services Block Grant Modernization Act of 2022,"" said David Bradley, CEO of the National Community Action Foundation. ""In an era of partisanship, these two members prove that Congress can come together in a bipartisan manner and help America's most vulnerable citizens achieve a path out of poverty. The bill they offered and that Congress approved will not only increase accountability and outcomes, but will further empower communities and their Community Action Agencies to continue to make a real difference in the lives of so many. When this bill becomes law, thousands of communities and millions of individuals and families will experience a better quality of life because of Reps. Bonamici and Thompson's tireless leadership, skill and dedication in support of the Community Services Block Grant and the Community Action Agencies.""

Video of Bonamici speaking in support of the legislation can be viewed here.

The Community Services Block Grant Modernization Act of 2021 will reauthorize this critical program for ten years and make overdue updates to further reduce poverty. Updates to the CSBG program include:

Reauthorizing the CSBG Act for 10 years at an increased annual level of $1 billion for first five years

Permanently raising income eligibility to 200 percent of the poverty line, as temporarily provided in the CARES Act

Promoting innovation in the Community Action network through a federally administered Community Action Innovations Program, and requiring federal and state training and technical assistance to support developing and promoting evidence-based approaches to reducing poverty

A fact sheet with more details about the CSBG Modernization Act can be found here. A summary can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-announces-winner-2022-congressional-art-competition,Bonamici Announces Winner of 2022 Congressional Art Competition,2022-05-12,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Beaverton, OR [05/12/2022] – Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici announced that Sophia Gard, a senior at Jesuit High School, won the 2022 Congressional Art Competition for Oregon's First Congressional District.

Sophia's drawing ""Learning to Fly"" will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Participants, judges, parents, and educators joined the Congresswoman for a reception at Beaverton City Hall. A photo of Sophia with the Congresswoman can be downloaded here, and a photo of her art can be downloaded here.

This year's panel of judges included Raziah Roushan, Executive Director at Tualatin Valley Creates; Ivan Salcido, Public Arts Installation and Conservation Tech at Regional Arts and Culture Council; and Kimberly Howard Wade, Executive Director of Caldera Arts. They described Gard's work as ""unconventional"" and commended her unique use of color and shading.

""I thank all of the talented young artists who submitted their work to the Congressional Art Competition this year,"" said Congresswoman Bonamici. ""Their creativity, expression, and technical ability were truly inspiring. Congratulations to the winner, Sophia Gard, for her impressive drawing ‘Learning to Fly.' I look forward to seeing it displayed in the Capitol for people all over the country to appreciate.""

""I made this piece because I wanted to reflect on good memories from my childhood,"" Sophia Gard said. ""I was less strict over the whole process and really let myself enjoy sketching and picking out the colors and I think the fun that I had making this drawing definitely shows through. I've never received a prize as big as this for my art, and I am incredibly grateful and excited. I'm most looking forward to meeting the other winners at D.C.! It's always great to connect with more people who share my passion for art.""

The Congressional Institute will fly Gard and one guest to Washington, D.C. for an award ceremony with other first-place winners from Congressional Districts around the country.

Chloe Peck, a senior at Beaverton High School, received an honorable mention for her digital painting ""Ghost Classroom,"" which can be viewed here. Her piece will be displayed in Congresswoman Bonamici's district office for one year.

Bonamici has long been a champion of the arts and arts education. She is the founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional STEAM Caucus, which advocates for the integration of the arts with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-porter-push-better-protect-student-borrowers,"Bonamici, Porter Push to Better Protect Student Borrowers",2022-05-11,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Katie Porter (D-CA) today reintroduced the CFPB Student Loan Integrity and Transparency Act, which would restore critical oversight powers to the top government official responsible for assisting student borrowers.

""Students work hard for a better future by pursuing higher education, but too often their educational journey involves dealing with unscrupulous lenders or deceptive loan terms,"" said Bonamici. ""With the CFPB Student Loan Integrity and Transparency Act, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will have additional authority and power to advocate for students and provide needed oversight. I am pleased to join Rep. Porter in this important effort.""

""Our economy can't be globally competitive if students have to choose between furthering their education and lifelong financial stress,"" said Porter, Co-Chair of the House College Affordability Caucus and former professor at the University of California, Irvine. ""We can better protect students from predatory lenders, scams, and for-profit universities—and that starts with giving federal watchdogs the tools they need to hold bad actors accountable.""

The CFPB Student Loan Integrity and Transparency Act would re-empower the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)'s student loan ombudsman, an official whose oversight capabilities were severely undermined in 2018 when the Trump Administration closed the Office of Students and Younger Consumers. Porter's legislation would support the top official charged with protecting student borrowers by maintaining adequate staffing and resource levels, requiring information sharing between the Department of Education and the CFPB, and mandating cooperation from student loan servicers.

The CFPB Student Loan Integrity and Transparency Act is supported by the Student Borrower Protection Center, Consumer Federation of America, National Consumer Law Center, Student Debt Crisis Center, Americans for Financial Reform, and Center for Responsible Lending.

""The story of the student debt crisis is one marked by widespread economic distress, government inaction, corruption, and shocking abuses by some of the largest financial companies in the world,"" said Mike Pierce, Executive Director of the Student Borrower Protection Center and the former regulator for the student financial services industry at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. ""Big private companies who choose to do this work on behalf of taxpayers routinely break the law. This critical legislation will ensure that the CFPB has the tools to put borrowers back at the center of the Bureau's consumer protection work.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/merkley-wyden-bonamici-push-extend-federal-purchasing-west-coast-seafood,"Merkley, Wyden, Bonamici Push to Extend Federal Purchasing of West Coast Seafood",2022-04-28,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon's U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today led colleagues in a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) urging the Department to continue purchasing seafood from the West Coast. Senator Merkley and Wyden were joined by Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Patty Murray (D-WA), and Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Jared Huffman (D-CA), Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Kurt Schrader (D-OR), and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) in pushing USDA Secretary Thomas Vilsack to make sure West Coast fishermen and seafood processors remain supported and a priority for USDA commodity purchasing programs.

""On average, commercial fishermen on the West Coast deliver more than $500 million in ex-vessel value per annum, accounting for 13% of the value of total U.S. seafood production,"" wrote the lawmakers. ""A quarter of all American seafood processing and wholesale jobs are located in Washington, Oregon, and California, representing the largest employment opportunity among all seafood-producing regions in the U.S. The domestic seafood sector is also a critically important component of America's food production system, supporting more than 1.2 million jobs, generating more than $144 billion in sales impacts, and contributing more than $61 billion to the nation's gross domestic product.

""As with rural economies everywhere, but perhaps most acutely in small coastal communities, COVID-19 had a devastating impact and a primary driver of that impact was the effect on the fishing and processing industry,"" they continued. ""According to a report issued by NOAA Fisheries in December 2021, ex-vessel revenue fell by 27% from 2019-2020 and seafood dealers and processors sustained a decline in value added of $598 million (or 13.47%) as well. The West Coast saw a larger decline in revenue from commercial fishing landings than all regions as a whole, with a dip of 24% in 2020 as compared to a five year baseline (2015-2019). NOAA found that a significant part of the lost value was due to restaurant closures and reduced export.""

Senators Merkley and Wyden have been long-time advocates leading the push to ensure the USDA includes Pacific Northwest fishermen and seafood processors in important purchasing programs. Most recently the Senators secured $16.5 million in Pacific seafood purchases.

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

Dear Secretary Vilsack,

Commercial fishing and seafood processing on the West Coast is a significant contributor to U.S. seafood production and also a key part of our country's agricultural and food production system as a whole. Perhaps more importantly, the industries are the economic and community backbone of the small ports and vibrant rural towns that dot our Pacific shorelines.

On average, commercial fishermen on the West Coast deliver more than $500 million in ex-vessel value per annum, accounting for 13% of the value of total U.S. seafood production. A quarter of all American seafood processing and wholesale jobs are located in Washington, Oregon, and California, representing the largest employment opportunity among all seafood-producing regions in the U.S. The domestic seafood sector is also a critically important component of America's food production system, supporting more than 1.2 million jobs, generating more than $144 billion in sales impacts, and contributing more than $61 billion to the nation's gross domestic product.

As with rural economies everywhere, but perhaps most acutely in small coastal communities, COVID-19 had a devastating impact and a primary driver of that impact was the effect on the fishing and processing industry. According to a report issued by NOAA Fisheries in December 2021, ex-vessel revenue fell by 27% from 2019-2020 and seafood dealers and processors sustained a decline in value added of $598 million (or 13.47%) as well.1 The West Coast saw a larger decline in revenue from commercial fishing landings than all regions as a whole, with a dip of 24% in 2020 as compared to a five year baseline (2015-2019). NOAA found that a significant part of the lost value was due to restaurant closures and reduced export.2

Last year under your leadership, USDA purchased just over $16 million in West Coast seafood products, providing a significant boost for the industry and our coastal communities. We are very thankful for that purchase but note that other regions have received significantly more support during the pandemic. USDA's procurement programs are critical for ensuring that our food production systems remain robust, essential workers remain employed, supply chains keep operating, and America's nutritional needs are met. We thus request that you include appropriate Pacific Northwest and West Coast seafood products that are currently being produced in large volumes, are easily accessible, and easily transportable for immediate distribution to food assistance programs.

Thank you very much for USDA's assistance in assisting our region's coastal economies.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/oregon-delegation-calls-interior-department-renew-commitment-wildfire-response,Oregon Delegation Calls on Interior Department to Renew Commitment to Wildfire Response in Oregon,2022-04-26,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon's U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley today is joined by U.S. Senator Ron Wyden and U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici, Peter DeFazio, Earl Blumenauer, Kurt Schrader, and Cliff Bentz in a letter to Interior Secretary Deb Haaland calling for a renewed commitment to the Western Oregon Operating Plan (WOOP). Set to expire in 2024, WOOP serves as the agreement that governs fire response for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) all over western Oregon.

""The checkerboard ownership pattern of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) forest lands in western Oregon is unique, and creates over 14,000 miles of jurisdictional boundary between federal, tribal, state, county and private timberlands,"" wrote the lawmakers. ""The complexity of managing fire situations in this area led to agreements to provide seamless protection by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and non-profit Forest Protective Associations (FPA) dating back to at least 1914. That arrangement has been a model of success and continues to this day, with the Western Oregon Operating Plan agreement between the State of Oregon and BLM.

""The current agreement expires in 2024, and BLM has indicated to ODF and FPAs that it wants to reduce the scope of the agreement and reduce the number of covered acres,"" they continued. ""This is of great concern to us because of the ongoing risk of catastrophic fires in our state. In fact, many of the areas included in the agreement were recently designated high-risk ‘firesheds' by this administration. Western Oregon Indian tribes have also expressed concern that BLM has embarked on this path without any government-to-government consultation about the impacts to tribal land of a different fire protection scheme.""

As the Chair of the Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Merkley has been a leading voice in securing federal resources for wildfire management and ensured language directing the Bureau of Land Management to expand the level of protection covered through the Western Oregon Operating Plan was included in this fiscal year's federal spending bill.

The letter comes ahead of a planned May hearing in which Merkley will invite Secretary Haaland to testify before his subcommittee.

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

###

Dear Secretary Haaland:

We applaud the commitment to support integrated responses to wildland fire in the Department of Interior's new five-year plan to reduce wildfire risk and write to draw your attention to the need to renew the Department's commitment to the century-old fire management agreement between the state and federal government in western Oregon.

The checkerboard ownership pattern of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) forest lands in western Oregon is unique, and creates over 14,000 miles of jurisdictional boundary between federal, tribal, state, county and private timberlands. The complexity of managing fire situations in this area led to agreements to provide seamless protection by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and non-profit Forest Protective Associations (FPA) dating back to at least 1914. That arrangement has been a model of success and continues to this day, with the Western Oregon Operating Plan agreement between the State of Oregon and BLM.

The current agreement expires in 2024, and BLM has indicated to ODF and FPAs that it wants to reduce the scope of the agreement and reduce the number of covered acres. This is of great concern to us because of the ongoing risk of catastrophic fires in our state. In fact, many of the areas included in the agreement were recently designated high-risk ""firesheds"" by this administration. Western Oregon Indian tribes have also expressed concern that BLM has embarked on this path without any government-to-government consultation about the impacts to tribal land of a different fire protection scheme.

The explanatory statement that accompanied the enacted Fiscal Year 2022 Interior Appropriations bill provides clear direction to BLM moving forward. The language directs BLM to ""continue the fire protection agreement with the State of Oregon to maintain or enhance the current level of fire protection for BLM-managed lands in Western Oregon.""

The current fire protection arrangement has been a vital element of protecting Oregonians for over a century and we encourage you to renew the Department and BLM's commitment to this effective, interagency approach.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-appointed-conference-major-us-economic-competitiveness-bill,Bonamici Appointed to Conference on Major U.S. Economic Competitiveness Bill,2022-04-07,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [04/07/22] – Today House Speaker Nancy Pelosi appointed Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), a leader on the House Science Committee, to help negotiate the final text of legislation to expand U.S. economic competitiveness by strengthening the nation's scientific enterprise and supply chains.

Bonamici will be a member of the conference committee tasked with reconciling the differences between the House and Senate versions of the America COMPETES Act before it is sent to President Joe Biden's desk to be signed into law.

""It is an honor to be entrusted with shaping the final version of the America COMPETES Act, which will benefit the economy for Oregonians and people across the country for decades to come,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""This timely legislation will bolster semiconductor production, which already employs thousands of people in NW Oregon, and strengthen domestic manufacturing so we can overcome recent supply chain challenges and better prepare for the future. In the conference committee, I will continue my work on this legislation with the goal of growing the economy, bolstering U.S manufacturing, addressing the climate crisis, improving educational opportunities, lowering costs, and more.""

The House-passed version of the America COMPETES Act includes $52 billion to accelerate semiconductor manufacturing and design and make major investments in U.S. innovation and manufacturing. It also contains several pieces of Bonamici's legislation, including provisions to address the effects of the climate crisis on the ocean, improve workforce development, and enhance STEAM education.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-leads-call-expand-access-affordable-child-care-during-week-young,Bonamici Leads Call to Expand Access to Affordable Child Care During Week of the Young Child,2022-04-06,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [04/06/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Chair of the Education and Labor Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Human Services, led 20 of her colleagues in calling for increased federal investments in child care.

The resolution calls for all children to have access to high-quality, affordable child care and preschool. This is the Week of the Young Child, which celebrates early childhood programs and educators.

""Giving all young children the opportunity to attend a quality child care program or preschool without onerous financial strain on their families is a matter of equity,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""It is also critical that the educators who are providing this essential care – predominately women of color – are receiving the support and wages they deserve for the valuable work they do. I'm continuing to advocate for these important investments in our children, families, economy, and future.""

The resolution was endorsed by: American Academy of Pediatrics, American Federation of Teachers, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), Center for American Progress, Center for Law and Social Policy, Child Welfare League of America, Early Care and Education Consortium, First Five Years Fund, Low Income Investment Fund, MomsRising, National Association for the Education of Young Children, National Education Association, National Women's Law Center, Save the Children, and Zero to Three.

""Access to affordable, high-quality child care is a pillar in the movement for racial and gender equality,"" said Fatima Goss Graves, President and CEO of the National Women's Law Center. ""But as the pandemic continues to shrink the child care sector and child care becomes increasingly unaffordable for families, this backbone of women's working lives is too scarce and too expensive—all while the Black, brown, and immigrant workers who provide this care are paid poverty-level wages. We thank Representative Bonamici for this renewed commitment to child care for every working family and urge Congress to make good on this promise.""

""Our child care system was crumbling before the pandemic — most providers were earning poverty wages and nearly half relied on public assistance,"" said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. ""COVID-19 has only made things worse, with many providers leaving for better paying, more stable jobs. Now, as many more parents return to working outside the home, they are struggling to find affordable child care they can depend on. This is slowing down our economic recovery and forcing many families to make impossible choices. We can no longer afford to ignore this crisis. We need major investments that lower costs for families, grow the child care workforce and ensure that providers — a majority of whom are women of color — get fair pay for their essential work. On behalf of 1.4 million AFSCME members, tens of thousands of whom are child care providers and many more who are child care consumers, I applaud Rep. Bonamici's leadership on this critical issue.""

The full text of the resolution can be viewed here. It was cosponsored by Representatives Katherine Clark, Jackie Speier, Alma Adams, Sanford Bishop Jr., Jamaal Bowman, Tony Cárdenas, Yvette D. Clarke, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Lois Frankel, Jahana Hayes, Sara Jacobs, Mondaire Jones, Lucy McBath, Seth Moulton, Marie Newman, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Mark Pocan, Dutch Ruppersberger, Nydia Velázquez, and Nikema Williams.

Bonamici has long advocated for increased investments in child care, and helped secure support for child care providers in the American Rescue Plan. She is leading the Child Care is Infrastructure Act, and released an in-depth report on the state of child care in Oregon based on conversations with Oregon child care providers, early childhood educators, parents, and other advocates. It contains many of their stories and outlines a path forward.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-porter-courtney-introduce-legislation-meet-students-mental-health,"Bonamici, Porter, Courtney Introduce Legislation to Meet Students’ Mental Health Needs",2022-04-04,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Katie Porter (D-CA), along with Congressman Joe Courtney (D-CT) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), introduced legislation to protect the rights of students struggling with mental health challenges. The Student Mental Health Rights Act would require the Secretary of Education to study student mental health and campus policies and, in consultation with the Assistant Attorney General of the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice, publish guidance on how colleges and universities can better comply with federal mental health laws.

""Many college students are experiencing depression or anxiety and would benefit from accessible mental health care on campus,"" said Rep. Bonamici. ""Students should be able to receive the help they need with sufficient support from their academic institution. I'm grateful to Rep. Porter for the Student Mental Health Rights Act, and I'm happy to partner with her to help destigmatize mental health, support students, and align college mental health policies with federal guidelines.""

""It isn't enough to have laws on the books if they're not actually helping people who need treatment,"" said Rep. Porter. ""Federal law is supposed to protect students who are struggling with their mental health, but many still face barriers to the care and resources that they need. My Student Mental Health Rights Act would help safeguard students from unhelpful—and at times, actively harmful—campus policies.""

Federal law prevents colleges and universities from discriminating against students because of their mental health needs, but few safeguards exist to determine compliance. Roughly 40% of college students experienced depression and 34% experienced anxiety in 2020, and 60% of undergraduates reported trouble accessing any type of mental health care.

The Student Mental Health Rights Act is supported by the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law and the National Center on Learning Disabilities.

""We are grateful to Representative Porter for re-introducing legislation to address the discrimination experienced by students with disabilities and improve compliance with disability rights laws,"" said Ira Burnim, Legal Director of the Judge Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law. ""We have seen a surge in requests for help from students, particularly students of color, denied equal educational opportunity at their college or university. Federal guidance and a comprehensive review of current practices will help ensure that students get the fair and even-handed treatment they deserve.""

""The pandemic has created a mental health crisis across the country, but has especially impacted our nation's young people. We applaud Representative Porter and her co-leads for introducing the Student Mental Health Rights Act, which would enable colleges and universities to better support students with psychiatric disabilities,"" said the National Center for Learning Disabilities' Director of Policy and Advocacy Lindsay Kubatzky. ""Because of Congresswoman Porter's leadership on this important legislation, Congress has taken a critical first step to recognize that we must do more to ensure college students get the support they need to be healthy and successful.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-announces-2022-high-school-art-competition,Bonamici Announces 2022 High School Art Competition,2022-03-31,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [3/31/22] – Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) is now accepting submissions for the 2022 Congressional Art Competition.

The competition is open to any student in grades 9-12 who lives in or attends school in Oregon's First Congressional District, which includes Washington, Yamhill, Clatsop, and Columbia Counties and part of Multnomah County. A panel of local artists will select the winning student artist, whose artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for a year. All students who participate in the competition will be invited to a reception with the Congresswoman where the winner will be announced and all submissions will be shown.

""The Congressional Art Competition is a great chance for students to share their talents and have their work on display at the Capitol,"" saidCongresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""Each year I'm inspired by the thoughtful and creative pieces submitted by students in NW Oregon. The arts are vitally important and can help us learn, process, and understand different perspectives and experiences. I'm eager to see the pieces students create this year.""

Students interested in submitting artwork can find more information here. The deadline for art submissions is April 29, 2022. Art may be mailed to the Beaverton office at 12725 SW Millikan Way, STE 220, Beaverton, OR 97005. Art may be dropped off in person from 8:30 to 5:30 on Wednesday, April 27th and Friday, April 29th, or by calling 503-469-6010 to arrange a time.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-bonamici-plan-help-protect-retirement-savings,House Passes Bonamici Plan to Help Protect Retirement Savings,2022-03-30,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [3/30/22] – The House passed bipartisan legislation with provisions by Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) to help workers who move between jobs track, consolidate, and grow their retirement savings accounts.

The Securing a Strong Retirement Act of 2022, or SECURE Act 2.0 makes important bipartisan improvements that will increase enrollment in and access to retirement savings plans. It includes provisions based on Bonamici's Retirement Savings Lost and Found Act.

Video of Bonamici speaking in favor of the legislation on the House floor can be found here.

""As employers have shifted from pension plans to retirement plans, such as 401(k)s, workers have increasingly become responsible for tracking, managing, and consolidating their retirement accounts when they change jobs,"" Bonamici said on the House floor. ""There is no standard way for workers to consolidate their accounts, and many workers lose track of their hard-earned investments…

""The SECURE Act 2.0 includes provisions from my Retirement Savings Lost and Found Act, which will help address the challenge of tracking retirement savings. My bill creates a national lost and found registry for retirement accounts housed at the Department of Labor. The lost and found registry will provide workers with a centralized way to track their retirement accounts and help workers claim their hard-earned retirement funds, regardless of how often they transition from job to job.""

According to a Government Accountability Office report, about 25 million people changed jobs between 2004 and 2014 and left one or more retirement accounts behind.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/secretary-walsh-rep-bonamici-tour-workforce-training-programs-oregon,"Secretary Walsh, Rep. Bonamici Tour Workforce Training Programs in Oregon",2022-03-29,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [3/29/22] – Last Thursday Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici hosted U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh in Oregon to highlight their efforts to increase access to quality, high-wage jobs.

The Secretary and Congresswoman toured Portland Community College's new Training Center at the Oregon Manufacturing Innovation Center (OMIC) in Scappoose. Later in the day, Oregon Governor Kate Brown and Rep. Earl Blumenauer joined them at the NECA-IBEW Training Center in Portland. They met with pre-apprentices, students, faculty, and local labor leaders to discuss the importance of creating pathways to high-wage manufacturing, clean energy, and construction jobs, especially for women, people of color, and others who have historically been left behind.

Photos of the visit to the PCC training center at OMIC can be downloaded here. Photos from the visit to IBEW can be downloaded here. Photos of a meeting with public sector labor leaders can be downloaded here.

""At the Department of Labor, we believe the ‘future of work' is about job quality, equity, and access for all workers to good middle-class careers,"" said Secretary Marty Walsh. ""Oregon is a proven leader in building equitable, diverse career pathways, and I was thrilled to witness a strong state-federal partnership at work.""

""Oregon is a leader in addressing the skills gap by creating opportunities for more people to access quality jobs,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""I was honored to host Secretary Walsh as we toured local training programs and heard personal stories about how workforce training, pre-apprenticeships, and the trades are changing lives. PCC at OMIC and Oregon Tradeswomen are doing important work to expand opportunities as we implement the new bipartisan infrastructure law, ramp up U.S. manufacturing, and transition to a clean energy economy. I'm committed to working with Secretary Walsh to secure the federal resources we need to make these jobs available to more people, especially those who have historically been left behind.""

""I'd like to thank Congresswoman Bonamici for convening last week's roundtable discussion on how we can create more pathways to good-paying careers, particularly for women and people of color,"" said Governor Kate Brown. ""And, thank you to Secretary Walsh for his continued leadership in workforce development for historically disadvantaged communities. With strong state-federal partnerships, we have an opportunity to build a future-ready workforce in Oregon.""

Bonamici has long advocated for increased resources to strengthen workforce training programs and increase access to apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships. She helped lead the National Apprenticeship Act, which the House recently passed as part of the America COMPETES Act. The COMPETES legislation also includes her PARTNERS Act and BUILDS Act, which would expand paid on-the-job training opportunities and provide workers with access to tools, work attire, transportation, child care services, and mentorship.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-remarks-advancement-bipartisan-update-anti-poverty-program,Bonamici Remarks at Advancement of Bipartisan Update to Anti-Poverty Program,2022-03-16,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [3/16/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Chair of the Education and Labor Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Human Services, delivered the following remarks at a committee markup to advance her bipartisan update to the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) program.

Video of Bonamici's remarks can be viewed here.

""In 1964, Congress first established the Community Action Program to support locally driven anti-poverty efforts. Today, community action agencies, or CAAs, form a network of more than 1,000 organizations with a dedicated mission of helping individuals and families find their way out of poverty,"" Bonamici said in her remarks. ""These agencies provide services and programs that meet the unique needs of local communities, and help low-income individuals and families achieve economic stability, secure meaningful employment and adequate education, gain and improve job-related skills, obtain housing, and participate in the community. Unfortunately, CSBG has not been reauthorized since 1998—the year Google was founded and John Glenn flew the Discovery space shuttle mission. And I might say that Titanic was a box office hit. That was a long time ago. We are long past due for Congress to pass a comprehensive reauthorization of this significant law.

""I am very proud of the productive collaboration with Congressman Thompson, my partner on our committee in leading the Community Services Block Grant Modernization Act of 2022. And I sincerely thank Representatives DeSaulnier, Stefanik, and Comer for joining us in leading this effort. Our bill continues the long tradition of broad bipartisan support for this program. I also want to acknowledge Congresswoman Bettie McCollum, who led early iterations of this proposal in prior Congresses and has joined us this session to build on that foundational work with more than 80 bipartisan cosponsors.

""Our bill will reauthorize CSBG for 10 years—the longest period in its history—and also make overdue improvements to the program. This includes strengthening funding for Community Action Agencies and raising the CSBG program's income eligibility threshold to expand access to their services and to update. The bill also promotes innovation in the CAA network through a federally administered Community Action Innovations Program. Lastly, I want to highlight a provision championed by Mr. Thompson to create Broadband Navigator projects so that CAAs can assist their clients in accessing internet services and connected devices that are necessary for learning, finding employment, and other basic activities of everyday life.""

The CSBG program supports more than 1,000 Community Action Agencies (CAAs), which have been providing holistic assistance to low-income individuals communities across the country for more than 50 years. According to the most recent available data, in FY2019 CAAs served 9,623,651 people with low incomes who were living in 4,870,660 families across the U.S.

The Community Services Block Grant Modernization Act of 2021 will reauthorize this critical program for another decade and make overdue updates to further reduce poverty. Updates to the CSBG program include:

Reauthorizing the CSBG Act for 10 years at an increased annual level of $1 billion for first five years

Permanently raising income eligibility to 200 percent of the poverty line, as temporarily provided in the CARES Act

Promoting innovation in the Community Action network through a federally administered Community Action Innovations Program, and requiring federal and state training and technical assistance to support developing and promoting evidence-based approaches to reducing poverty

A fact sheet with more details about the CSBG Modernization Act can be found here. A summary can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/capac-members-commemorate-anniversary-atlanta-spa-shootings,CAPAC Members Commemorate Anniversary of Atlanta Spa Shootings,2022-03-16,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — One year ago today, a gunman sought out and entered three Asian-owned spas in Georgia, opened fire, and killed eight people, including six Asian women. Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) issued the following statements:

Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01):

""One year after the heinous crimes in Atlanta, I continue to stand with our Asian American communities in Georgia, Oregon, and across the country and with the families of all those we tragically lost that day. In the past year, anti-Asian hate crimes have increased dramatically across the U.S. Our AAPI neighbors and friends were already hurting before this dangerous spike of racist attacks. Congress must continue to pass bills like the Khalid Jabara and Heather Heyer NO HATE Act and reckon with our country's history of racism against Asian Americans. I thank Chairwoman Chu for her leadership in introducing this resolution, and remain committed to supporting solutions that end the violence, hatred, and xenophobia.""

CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27):

""One year later, it is still difficult to grasp the horrors of this day and what it meant to the Asian American community. After a year of warning that xenophobic slurs like ‘China virus' and ‘kung flu' were putting Asian lives at risk, America was shocked awake to this reality by the murder of eight people, including six Asian women, in an act of pure hate. Days later, I led a delegation to Georgia where we retraced the steps of the killer as he drove 27 miles in search of spas where he knew that he would find Asian women, who he knew to be among the most vulnerable. And I also met with the families of the victims, who told us through tears what their loved ones meant to them. These murders have left holes in the lives of loved ones and their communities that can never be filled, and it drove home to the Asian American community and the rest of the country just how dangerous the spike in anti-Asian hate had become. But as horrific as this day was, it was incredibly encouraging to see the outpouring of support that followed, including the bipartisan passage of the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act which will help improve our ability to respond to and track hate crimes. But, one year later, with anti-Asian hate crimes continuing to climb to over 11,000 incidents, it is clear that we must do more to honor the memory of all these victims by uniting to reject hate and xenophobia and ensure that everyone feels safe in this country.""

Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06), CAPAC First Vice-Chair:

""​On the one-year anniversary of the Georgia spa shootings, we remember the 8 individuals, including the six Asian women, who were senselessly gunned down in a mass shooting in the Atlanta-area. The pain and heartbreak of this tragedy are still felt throughout the AAPI community as we continue to see AAPIs – especially AAPI women – battling violence, hate, and discrimination. Racism, misogyny, and bigotry have no place in our country. ​Days after the massacre, I traveled to Atlanta with several of my CAPAC colleagues where we met with family members of those who were murdered, laid flowers at the shooting sites, and spoke with Asian American leaders from the area. My heart continues to be with the victims' loved ones, and their communities on this tragic anniversary. Let us honor the lives of those eight individuals, including the six Asian women, and commit to fighting xenophobia and hate wherever and whenever we see it.""

Congressman Mark Takano (CA-41), CAPAC Second Vice-Chair:

""The anniversary of the Atlanta Spa Shooting is a stark reminder of the harm that anti-AAPI sentiment poses on our society. One year later, my thoughts remain with the victims' families and friends who are still mourning the unjust death of their loved ones. I feel comforted by the fact that Congress took leadership in addressing these issues of violence by passing the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act and President Biden signing it into law, but our work is not done yet. We must always speak out against all discrimination or prejudice that takes place in our country. I will continue to be a voice for the AAPI community and advocate against of hate, bigotry, and ignorance.""

Congressman Ted Lieu (CA-33), CAPAC Whip:

""One year ago, a shooter targeted three separate Asian-owned spas in Atlanta, killing eight innocent people and injuring several others. My prayers continue to be with the families of the victims. This was an unspeakable tragedy that occurred during a time of heightened violence against Asian Americans. I am thankful we have a President who is working with us to Stop Asian Hate. May we honor the victims of this senseless tragedy by coming together in the ongoing fight against hatred, intolerance, and bigotry.""

Congressman Kaiali'i Kahele (HI-02), CAPAC Freshman Representative:

""My heart remains with the families and loved ones of the victims who are no longer with us. Our Asian American community has endured too much unwarranted hate and violence throughout this pandemic. Enough is enough. As we navigate these difficult times, we must continue to actively look out for each other, raise awareness to this issue and remind ourselves that this cannot be our new normal.""

Senator Mazie Hirono (HI):

""One year after the horrific spa shootings in Atlanta, the increased rise in anti-Asian hate crimes continues to spur fear, anger and grief in the Asian and Pacific Islander community. In remembrance of the women who were murdered in Atlanta, and all victims of verbal abuse, physical attacks and other acts of discrimination, we must work hard to eradicate hate based violence. I'm proud to have worked so hard to get the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act signed into law in order to provide the Department of Justice with the tools it needs to combat anti-Asian and all forms of hate crimes and incidents. This law is an important step forward in our fight to end hate crimes, but our work is far from over. Everyone in this country deserves to feel safe and welcome in our communities. I will continue to advocate on behalf of our communities to ensure they have the resources and assistance to put an end to these senseless attacks.""

Senator Tammy Duckworth (IL):

""When a shooter targeted and murdered six Asian women in the Atlanta spa shootings one year ago today, it was a horrific reminder of the systemic hate that has plagued our Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities throughout our nation's history. We know that blaming the AANHPI community for a public health crisis is racist and wrong, and that's why I'm so proud President Biden signed the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act, which I helped introduce, into law to help protect our fellow Americans from the rise in anti-Asian hate and attacks that we've seen since the start of this pandemic. Yet, with anti-Asian hate crimes up by 339% in the last year, it's clear we must do more to stop the violence that's continuing to terrorize the AANHPI community. We are not the ‘other,' and I'll continue to do everything I can to help put an end to the disease of hatred that's spreading through our country right now.""

Congressman Al Green (TX-09):

""Today we commemorate all eight innocent persons whose lives were senselessly and tragically taken last year by racially motivated gun violence in multiple Atlanta spas. I stand with my Asian American Pacific Islander friends today and every day in condemning such acts of hatred. Hateful rhetoric, bigotry, and harassment directed at any demographic, including the Asian diaspora, have no place in our society. We must continue to stand up for each other and speak out against invidious discrimination to prevent sinful violence against humanity such as this from occurring again.""

Congressman Ro Khanna (CA-17):

""As we reflect on the one-year anniversary of the horrific attack in Georgia, I join my colleagues in condemning violence and racism against the AAPI community. My heart is with the family and loved ones of those who were tragically killed. Violence and discrimination will never be tolerated.""

Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03):

""One year ago today, I watched in horror seeing the news of the shootings in Atlanta. I'll never forget the raw emotion from the families of the victims when we met with them, and they asked what Congress would do to help keep the Asian American community safe? While I'm proud to have passed the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act of 2021, we know it is still not enough. Since then, anti-Asian hate crimes have increased. While we are still vulnerable and exhausted as a community, we are also stronger, united, and more resolved than ever to stand up, speak out, and stop AAPI hate.""

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08):

""One year ago, we witnessed the heartbreaking loss of life in the Atlanta spa shooting when a hate-driven gunman opened fire, killing eight innocent people, including six women of Asian descent. We must commit ourselves once again to ending this tragic cycle of violence and hatred against the Asian-American community. Americans of all races must be able to feel safe living in this country as we together pursue the American Dream. I urge my colleagues to take up my Hate Crimes Commission Act, and other legislation aimed at combatting violent bigotry, as we continue to work toward a more perfect union.""

Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-13):

""One year ago today, we lost eight Americans in the horrific Atlanta spa shootings. I join the Asian-American community in mourning the victims of that devastating attack. This is a frightening time for the AAPI community—we must be vigilant and united against the rise of racially motivated crime. There is no place in America for bigotry. I stand with the AAPI community in Atlanta, in the East Bay, and across the country on this day of remembrance.""

Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03):

""Today we remember the victims of the shootings in Georgia as we continue to speak out against the ongoing violence toward Asian Americans. One year ago, eight innocent people were shot on March 16, 2021. 7 were women, 6 were women of Asian descent and several were immigrants. These three separate shootings took place at Asian-owned businesses. What happened in Georgia is evidence of the forces of discrimination and sexism that have been allowed to grow in our country. I stand with my CAPAC colleagues to condemn these hate crimes and believe we must do better as a society.""

Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10):

""One year ago today, 6 Asian women and 2 others were brutally murdered in what is known as the Atlanta Spa Shootings. This event, like other anti-Asian hate crimes has brought pain but it has also inspired action-- to stand up and be proud of our Asian American heritage and to call out racially motivated violence for what it is. As a Black and Korean woman, I am acutely aware of how it feels to be erased or ignored. But no matter what some may say, I matter. To my fellow Asian women, you matter.""

Congresswoman Carolyn Bourdeaux (GA-07):

""One year ago, a gunman stole eight lives from my community in a vile and racist attack. I stand with my Asian American constituents today as we mourn. My heart remains with those lost, their loved ones, and the millions of Asian Americans traumatized by this violence amidst a rise in anti-Asian hate crimes across the nation. As an Atlanta community and as a nation, we must move forward together to put a stop to the hate that fueled this tragedy and to achieve justice.""

Congresswoman Katherine Clark (MA-05):

""A year ago today, we witnessed a horrific, racially motivated shooting that killed eight spa workers in Atlanta. This deadly attack targeted AAPI women at a time when discrimination against their community was already at a deadly high point. Congress responded with legislation to ensure that violence toward the AAPI community is treated as a hate crime. Still, there is so much more to be done to end discrimination and gun violence in this country. On this dark anniversary, let us recommit ourselves to tackling these intertwined crises and continuing the fight for justice.""

Congressman Lou Correa (CA-46):

""Today marks the first anniversary of the Atlanta Spa shooting, a day we lost eight innocent lives. A year later, Asian American communities all over the country still face unacceptable levels of hate crimes and anti-Asian rhetoric. Asian Americans are our neighbors, friends, and business leaders. Our Asian American community represents the full promise of the American Dream, and they have contributed so much to Orange County. As we honor and pay tribute to each victim today, it's important to highlight that our Asian American communities continue to experience a rise in hate crimes. As a nation, we must support and stand united to condemn racist violence. I will continue to work in Congress to stand up against anti-Asian racism and bigotry.""

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12):

""A year ago, Asian American women were targeted and killed during horrific shootings in Atlanta, Georgia that devastated communities across this country. Dangerous discrimination against the Asian American community has increased significantly over the last two years—leading to violence and trauma. We must stand united in condemning this senseless violence and combatting hate and bigotry in all its forms.""

Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12):

""On the one-year anniversary of the Atlanta, Georgia Spa Shootings, we remember the victims of this tragic act of violence. Xenophobia, hatred, and misinformation that wrongly blamed the AAPI community for the COVID-19 pandemic led to the loss of 8 innocent lives. This horrific incident serves as a reminder that we must always stand up against bigotry and hate wherever and whenever we see it, and that we are still working to Stop Asian Hate.""

Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (CA-38):

""My heart is with the family members and friends of the eight people who were shot and killed in Atlanta one year ago today. Their lives were taken too soon from unspeakable violence motivated by hate and racism. We've seen an alarming increase in xenophobic attacks since the pandemic began – ranging from verbal harassment and physical assaults to this deadly shooting that left six women of Asian descent dead. This hatred didn't come out of nowhere. It is fueled every day by the racist rhetoric used to describe the COVID-19 pandemic. It is on us to turn the page. I stand with our Asian-American and Pacific Islander community across the country in remembering the eight lives lost one year ago and recommit to ending Asian hate.""

Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09):

""One year ago, eight innocent people – mostly women of Asian descent – were tragically killed in a series of shootings across three spas in the Atlanta area. Today, on the anniversary of their death, we once again mourn this loss of life and recommit to combating hatred and racism wherever we see it. This violent attack took place as the Asian American community was facing increasing hate crimes because of racist rhetoric regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. In the year since this devastating incident, Asian Americans continue to live in fear – an unacceptable reality that we must address. In Congress, I am committed to advancing a future free of gun violence, where all our community members have the freedom to live their lives without the fear of racial targeting. All members of our community, including our AAPI neighbors and friends, deserve no less.""

Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12):",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/oregon-delegation-requests-federal-funding-oregon-international-port-coos-bay,Oregon Delegation in Requests Federal Funding for Oregon International Port of Coos Bay,2022-03-16,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon's U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with Representative Peter DeFazio, are joined today by Representatives Suzanne Bonamici, Earl Blumenauer, and Kurt Schrader in a letter to President Biden requesting federal funds from the Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act (IIJA) be allocated towards a proposal to create a major new west coast container port in Coos Bay. In their letter, the lawmakers highlight the importance of investing in our country's rural ports to address supply chain issues, create jobs and increase economic productivity, and how this project specifically will produce significant environmental benefits.

""The IIJA includes tens of billions of dollars that can be utilized for modernizing our nation's port infrastructure,"" wrote the delegation. ""Even as your administration works to identify investments that can have an immediate impact, we must accommodate for the fact that container flows on the West Coast are projected to grow at a rapid pace well into the future. While current port infrastructure is incapable of handling this future growth in trade, there is one location where significant port capacity can be added – at the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay. In fact, establishing a container port here would immediately increase West Coast port capacity by up to 10 percent. There is simply no other place on the West Coast where that level of additional capacity can be achieved. The fact that the Port of Coos Bay is located in a rural area makes this project all the more important. Establishing a world class port in Coos Bay will create jobs and generate tax revenue in a part of our state that has long suffered from a steep decline in timber harvest revenue.

""This project also has significant environmental benefits. While other ports in the U.S. will continue to rely heavily on truck transportation, the Coos Bay facility will be the first ship-to-rail port facility on the West Coast, thereby taking trucks out of the equation,"" they continued. ""This means additional port capacity without a corresponding increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, green electricity produced by renewable energy sources will facilitate the use of electrically powered cargo handling equipment, vehicle charging and on-shore power. With respect to the latter, the port will be fitted with electric power plug-ins that will power ships at berth during the process of unloading. Using shore side electrical power at berth – referred to as cold ironing – will eliminate ship engine emissions in port waters, thereby reducing pollutants by approximately 90 percent and greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 50 percent.""

Merkley has been a long-time advocate for investments to help make America's ports more sustainable. He has also fought alongside DeFazio to ensure that Oregon's rural and small ports receive the funding they need for the dredging and maintenance that is key to the safety and economic vitality of Oregon's coastal ports.

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

###

March 16, 2022

The Honorable Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

President

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

Washington, D.C. 20500

Dear President Biden:

We applaud the work that you and your administration have done to respond to the port congestion and supply chain issues that have plagued the West Coast. While your administration has made significant progress on the problems immediately in front of us, we can't lose sight of longer-term challenges. Looking ahead, as your administration implements the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), and in particular, seeks out projects to fund through the National Infrastructure Project Assistance program, commonly referred to as MEGA, we strongly encourage you to invest in our nation's future by dedicating significant funding to increasing West Coast port capacity and regional rail corridor connectivity, including the Coos Bay EcoPort and Railway Corridor in Coos Bay, Oregon, the first state-of-the-art ecoport in America.

The IIJA includes tens of billions of dollars that can be utilized for modernizing our nation's port infrastructure. Even as your administration works to identify investments that can have an immediate impact, we must accommodate for the fact that container flows on the West Coast are projected to grow at a rapid pace well into the future. While current port infrastructure is incapable of handling this future growth in trade, there is one location where significant port capacity can be added – at the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay. In fact, establishing a container port here would immediately increase West Coast port capacity by up to 10 percent. There is simply no other place on the West Coast where that level of additional capacity can be achieved. The fact that the Port of Coos Bay is located in a rural area makes this project all the more important. Establishing a world class port in Coos Bay will create jobs and generate tax revenue in a part of our state that has long suffered from a steep decline in timber harvest revenue.

This project also has significant environmental benefits. While other ports in the U.S. will continue to rely heavily on truck transportation, the Coos Bay facility will be the first ship-to-rail port facility on the West Coast, thereby taking trucks out of the equation. This means additional port capacity without a corresponding increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, green electricity produced by renewable energy sources will facilitate the use of electrically powered cargo handling equipment, vehicle charging and on-shore power. With respect to the latter, the port will be fitted with electric power plug-ins that will power ships at berth during the process of unloading. Using shore side electrical power at berth – referred to as cold ironing – will eliminate ship engine emissions in port waters, thereby reducing pollutants by approximately 90 percent and greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 50 percent.

The Port of Coos Bay has been underutilized for decades, despite an existing federal channel that is regularly maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), a rail line that connects to the Class I rail system, and hundreds of acres of undeveloped industrial land with quick and easy access to open ocean and international markets in Asia and beyond. While the opportunity to expand port capacity in Coos Bay surpasses all other options, upgrades to existing infrastructure are needed to capitalize on this location, including deepening and widening the federal channel and modernizing the rail line to accommodate rail cars carrying double-stacked containers. The White House fact sheet titled ""Competitive Infrastructure Funding Opportunities for Local Governments"" states that MEGA is intended to support multi-modal, multi-jurisdictional projects of regional or national significance, and says that funding is intended for critical large projects that would otherwise be unachievable without assistance. In other words, the MEGA program was designed for projects like this one, which are large and nationally significant.

The IIJA is a once in a generation opportunity that affords your administration the opportunity to make the investments that are needed to position the West Coast to be successful for generations to come. We respectfully ask that you embrace this opportunity to make investments that will prepare our nation for future growth.

Sincerely,

CC: Pete Buttigieg, Secretary of Department of Transportation

Shalanda Young, Director of White House Office Management and Budget

John Porcari, Port Envoy to Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-young-introduce-resolution-honor-caregivers-reduce-hunger,"Bonamici, Young Introduce Resolution to Honor Caregivers, Reduce Hunger",2022-03-15,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [03/15/22] – Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Don Young (R-AK) introduced a bipartisan resolution that will honor caregivers and their efforts to reduce hunger by recognizing National Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Week, which started Sunday.

CACFP provides millions of children and adults in child care, afterschool and summer meal programs, emergency shelters, and adult care homes with healthy meals and snacks each year. According to USDA, the program serves more than 4.2 million children and 138,000 adults daily.

""CACFP is one of the most powerful tools we have in our work to end hunger,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""No one in the United States should suffer from food insecurity. CACFP can help reach more children and adults who are in need of healthy meals and snacks. I'm committed to bolstering this important program and I'm pleased to lead this bipartisan resolution with Rep. Young.""

""Every year, National Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Week allows us to celebrate the great progress we have made in fighting hunger and providing compassionate care to some of the most vulnerable in our communities,"" said Congressman Don Young. ""This week is also a needed reminder of the work that remains to ensure CACFP is reaching those who need it most. I am committed to this program's success, and am honored to lead this bipartisan resolution with my friend, Congresswoman Bonamici.""

The resolution was endorsed by: Food Research and Action Center (FRAC), The National CACFP Sponsors Association, American Heart Association, Children's Institute, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), The CACFP Roundtable, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, National Women's Law Center (NWLC), The Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), National Farm to School Network, American Academy of Pediatrics, KinderCare Learning Companies, The National CACFP Forum, Center for Science and Public Interest (CSPI), Save the Children, Oregon Food Bank, and First Focus Campaign for Children.

""We are grateful to Congresswoman Bonamici and Congressman Young for co-leading the House Resolution recognizing National CACFP Week,"" said Lisa Mack, Executive Director of the National CACFP Sponsors Association. ""We appreciate the support from all Congressional Representatives for the thousands of CACFP operators who work tirelessly to provide nutritious meals to millions of children and adults nationwide. We are especially proud of how the CACFP community has responded to the challenges brought about by the ongoing pandemic and how they have continued to serve meals and ensure access to food for our nation's most vulnerable populations. During National CACFP Week, we are honored to celebrate them. They are true heroes.""

""The National CACFP Forum applauds the leadership of Chairwoman Bonamici and Congressman Young in introducing a bi-partisan resolution in support of the Child and Adult Care Food Program week,"" National CACFP Forum. ""We appreciate your ongoing support for ensuring food program access and strengthening benefits. Your commitment to supporting child care providers in using CACFP to serve healthy meals and snacks makes a difference for children across the country every day.""

Bonamici and Young were also joined by original cosponsors Reps. André Carson, Ed Case, Michael F.Q. San Nicolas, Albio Sires, and Dina Titus.

The full text of the resolution can be found here.

Bonamici is a leader on improving affordable child care access and addressing food insecurity. Her bipartisan Early Childhood Nutrition and Improvement Act would strengthen and expand CACFP by allowing an additional meal or snack to be served to children in care for a full day and making it easier for early learning programs and child care providers to participate in the program. She is the Chair of the Education and Labor Committee's Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Human Services, which has jurisdiction over federal child nutrition programs like CACFP.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-secures-107m-community-projects-nw-oregon,Bonamici Secures $10.7M for Community Projects in NW Oregon,2022-03-09,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [03/09/2022] – Today the House passed $10.7 million of funding for ten projects in NW Oregon that Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) advocated for to prevent landslides, strengthen workforce training, support small businesses, increase access to behavioral health care, and more.

The Community Project Funding was passed as part of the Omnibus Appropriations Agreement to fund the government for 2022. The legislation includes $13.6 billion in emergency aid for Ukraine, and is expected to pass the Senate soon.

""This legislation is a major win for our communities, and I am delighted that it contains funding for ten projects in NW Oregon I championed to increase access to critical services and promote equity,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""These projects will make our communities stronger and create new opportunities for families and workers.""

""Additionally and importantly, there is also an urgent need to send more aid to the people of Ukraine, who are suffering greatly at the hands of Vladimir Putin's unconscionable war. This bill contains critical funding to provide relief,"" Bonamici continued. ""Congress is continuing to work with President Biden to increase pressure on Putin to end his relentless crimes against humanity.""

The ten community projects funded in the bill are:

Astoria Pre-Disaster Landslide Storm Drainage Project

City of Astoria

$676,875

Beaverton Non-Profit Incubator Development Project

City of Beaverton

$500,000

Behavioral Health Resource Center Plaza

Multnomah County

$2,670,000

Cardiac Monitor/Defibrillator Project

Banks Fire District #13

$93,500

Construction Trades Expansion

WorkSystems, Inc.

$1,000,000

The Japan Institute Building Renovation Project

Portland Japanese Garden

$1,750,000

Columbia County Small Business Resource Center

Columbia County Economic Team

$175,000

Virginia Garcia Newberg Clinic Expansion

Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center

$2,124,000

Water Supply System Construction

City of Hillsboro

$1,000,000

Coastal Margin Observation and Prediction Program Expansion

Columbia River Inter Tribal Fish Commission

$760,000

Under the rules of the House Appropriations Committee, Members of Congress each submitted up to ten Community Project Funding requests for consideration during the fiscal year 2022 appropriations legislative process. The reformed and transparent Community Project Funding process allows Members of Congress to advocate for specific community financial support in a local, highly competitive process. Rep. Earl Blumenauer (OR-3) joined the Congresswoman in advocating for funding for the Behavioral Health Resource Center Plaza in Multnomah County.

In addition to the funding for community projects and aid to Ukraine, the Omnibus includes:

$400 increase to the maximum Pell Grant award

Increased funding for the bipartisan infrastructure law

Establishment of ARPA-H, a new cancer research initiative championed by President Biden

Reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-invites-oregon-climate-advocate-state-union,Bonamici Invites Oregon Climate Advocate to State of the Union,2022-03-01,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [03/01/22] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) announced that Doug Moore, Executive Director of the Oregon League of Conservation Voters (OLCV), will be her virtual guest for President Joe Biden's State of the Union address.

Moore has served as OLCV's Executive Director since 2011. Bonamici serves on the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, the only member from the Pacific NW, and regularly works with OLCV to emphasize the urgent need to address climate change and protect Oregon's irreplaceable outdoors and wildlife.

""In the year since President Biden took office, we have been able to restore numerous protections for our environment and put our country back on track to address the climate crisis,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""These steps are making a meaningful difference, and I am committed to building on them to support our transition to a clean energy economy, address decades of environmental racism, create clean-energy jobs, and more. I'm grateful for the important work OLCV and Doug are doing in Oregon to advocate for bold action to address the climate crisis, and I look forward to continuing to partner in this important effort.""

""On behalf of everyone at OLCV, I am truly honored and thrilled to be Congresswoman Bonamici's virtual guest tonight for President Biden's first State of the Union Address,"" said OLCV Executive Director Doug Moore. ""With all the crises we currently face – and especially the climate crisis – Congresswoman Bonamici has been hard at work on solutions. She's a climate champion who continues to deliver for the people of Oregon on better protections for our treasured coast, our air and water, our forests and wildlife, and our climate.""

""Congresswoman Bonamici's leadership is driven by a deep understanding that the impacts of climate change, from extreme heat and massive wildfires to ice storms, will only get much worse if we don't take action now,"" continued Moore. ""And just recently, Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the unfolding humanitarian crisis it is causing there, illustrates yet another reason – our national security – why we must transition quickly off of fossil fuels to a clean energy economy. Our immediate future and the future for the generations after us all demand we urgently act on climate. I look forward to joining Congresswoman Bonamici tonight to hear from President Biden on the path forward to deliver on federal climate action with the investments we need in clean energy, justice, and jobs.""

Bonamici played a key role in crafting the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis' comprehensive Climate Action Plan. More than 200 recommendations from the plan have already been signed into law. The recent bipartisan infrastructure law compliments the plan and is already starting to increase access to public transportation, reduce carbon emissions, and help strengthen our nation's infrastructure to better withstand extreme weather events.

The House also recently passed the COMPETES Act, which included provisions Bonamici led to safeguard the health of the ocean by strengthening coastal acidification research and monitoring, expanding efforts to map and conserve blue carbon ecosystems, and enhancing ocean data collection. It also contains a provision similar to her Regional Clean Energy Innovation Act, which will help cutting-edge technologies achieve commercialization by leveraging regional clean energy capabilities and markets.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-pocan-introduce-resolution-honor-public-schools-week-2022,"Bonamici, Pocan Introduce Resolution to Honor Public Schools Week 2022",2022-02-23,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"""It is an honor to co-lead the Public Schools Week Resolution,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""Our system of public education is important for our children, families, community, and economy. As a policymaker and former public school parent, I am eternally grateful for the tireless dedication of our many teachers and school staff. I'm committed to making sure schools have the policies and resources they need to provide a quality education to all students.""

""As a public school graduate from kindergarten through college, I'm proud to recognize the 9 out of every 10 students in America that attend a public school,"" Rep. Mark Pocan said. ""I am committed to strengthening our public schools so that every child receives a high-quality education experience. Communities are stronger and schools are better when we all work together to support public education. Our shared future and our success depend on the support we give to public education today.""

""America's public schools have a long and storied tradition of preparing our children to become tomorrow's leaders,"" Rep. Sam Graves said. ""Like the overwhelming majority of Americans, I'm a proud product of the public school system. I understand firsthand just how important public schools are to our communities and I'm committed to working to strengthen them so current and future generations have access to the same quality education that I did.""

""National Public Schools Week celebrates the storied history and success of our public school system and the education it provides to our youth,"" Rep. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson said. ""As a senior member of the Education and Labor Committee, and an alumnus of public schools, I am well aware of the vital role schools play in their communities. Every child deserves access to a high-quality education so that they may learn and grow. We must continue to strengthen these institutions so we can better prepare our next generation of learners.""

During Public Schools Week, national education groups representing teachers, principals, superintendents, parents, civil rights and disability advocates, and religious organizations highlight the importance of our public schools and the positive difference they make in shaping the future of our country. Public schools are open to every child – regardless of ability, wealth, country of origin, or needs, and by supporting public school systems we strengthen our country.

Resolution Cosponsors Include (96): Reps. Adams, Axne, Barragán, S. Bishop, Blunt Rochester, Bonamici, Bowman, Bustos, A. Brown, S. Brown, Casten, Castor, Cicilline, Cohen, Craig, Crow, D. Davis, Dean, DelBene, DeFazio, DeGette, DeLauro, DeSaulnier, Dingell, Eshoo, Espaillat, Foster, Fitzpatrick, Gallego, Garamendi, Chuy García, S. Garcia, T. Gonzales, S. Graves, A. Green, Grijalva, Hayes, Himes, Houlahan, Kaptur, R. Kelly, Khanna, Kildee, A. Kim, Kind, Lamb, Langevin, Larsen, Larson, B. Lee, S. Lee, A. Levin, Lowenthal, Lynch, Meng, McBath, McCollum; McGovern, McKinley, G. Moore, Morelle, Moulton, Mrvan, Nadler, Neguse, Newman, Norton, O'Halleran, Pallone, Panetta, Payne Jr., Pingree, Plaskett, Pocan, Porter, Pressley, Quigley, Raskin, Rush, Sablan, Schakowsky, Schiff, Schrader, D. Scott, Spanberger, Stevens, Takano, G. Thompson, Titus, Tonko, R. Torres, Trahan, Trone, Watson Coleman, Wild, F. Wilson, and Yarmuth

Organizations Supporting Public Schools Week Include: AASA, The School Superintendents Association, American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, American School Counselors Association, AFT, Americans United for Separation of Church and State, American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, Association of Educational Service Agencies, Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO), Baptist Joint Committee on Religious Liberty, Center for American Progress (CAP), Coalition for Community Schools, Council of Administrators of Special Education, Institute for Educational Leadership, Healthy Schools Campaign, Learning Disabilities Association of America, Learning Forward, National Association of Elementary School Principals, National Association of Secondary School Principals, National Association of School Psychologists, National Association of State Directors of Special Education, National Center for Learning Disabilities, National Council of Teachers of English, National Disability Rights Network (NDRN), National Education Association (NEA), National Education Association Retirees Association, National Military Families Association, National Rural Education Association, National School Boards Association, National School Public Relations Association, National PTA, Network for Public Education, School Social Work Association of America, and The Arc",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-wyden-merkley-blumenauer-defazio-ask-federal-agencies-protect-and,"Bonamici, Wyden, Merkley, Blumenauer, DeFazio Ask Federal Agencies to Protect and Restore Old-Growth Forests",2022-02-18,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley and U.S. Representatives Earl Blumenauer, Peter DeFazio and Suzanne Bonamici this week asked the U.S. Departments of Interior and Agriculture to follow congressional intent in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to protect and restore old-growth forests as well as protect other carbon-rich mature forests in Oregon and nationwide.

The Oregon lawmakers wrote that the U.S. Forest Service's climate plan and 10-year wildfire strategy of hazardous fuel treatments and prescribed fire to reduce wildfire risks also must recognize the climate crisis and expand to include plans for mature and old-growth forests.

Their letter – also signed by 19 Senate and House colleagues -- noted the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) included historic investments in wildfire risk reduction and forest restoration on national forests and public lands, requiring prioritization of funding for projects that fully maintain or contribute toward restoring the structure and composition of old-growth stands consistent with the characteristics of that forest type.

""The important climate and biodiversity values of old growth forests that Congress emphasized in this provision exist throughout the federal forests, not just in those areas most subject to fire, and not just in old growth forests but also carbon-rich mature forests,"" the lawmakers wrote Interior Secretary Deb Haaland and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. ""Protection of these values for the long term is key to accomplishing the Administration's commitments to climate and biodiversity protection.""

In addition to Wyden and Merkley, other senators signing the letter are U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla (D-CA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Michael Bennet (D-CO). In addition to Blumenauer, DeFazio and Bonamici, other U.S. representatives signing the letter are U.S. Reps. Nanette Diaz Barragan (D-CA), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Jared Huffman (D-CA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Veronica Escobar (D-TX), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Jerry McNerney (D-CA), Mike Levin (D-CA), Nikema Williams (D-GA) and Diana DeGette (D-CO).

The lawmakers asked in their letter for answers to the following questions by March 31, 2022:

1. What specific steps do USDA and the DOI plan to take to follow this direction for implementing their climate plans, 10-year wildfire strategy, and other agency planning processes?

2. What monitoring requirements and metrics will USDA and DOI use to analyze the progress of protecting and restoring these forests across the country? Specifically, whatperformance measures do you intend to use to report progress to Congress given that ""acres treated"" does not incorporate old growth preservation or restoration? How do you intend to develop new, spatially-explicit, outcomes-based performance measures to track

and report progress in restoring and preserving old growth forests?

3. What are the priority projects for restoring mature and old growth forests with IIJA fundsunder the 10-year plan? Which projects do you anticipate funding in the first two years of IIJA implementation and how to you plan on selecting projects in future years?

4. The 10-year strategy makes use of the concept of firesheds. How is restoration of old growth forests incorporated into the fireshed model? If it is not, how do you intend to ensure old growth is prioritized in your approach to funding allocation?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/oregon-delegation-calls-additional-emergency-rental-assistance-funding,Oregon Delegation Calls for Additional Emergency Rental Assistance Funding,2022-02-14,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [02/14/2022] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici led members of Oregon's congressional delegation – including Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, and Representatives Peter DeFazio, Earl Blumenauer, and Kurt Schrader – in calling for additional emergency rental assistance funding to be sent to Oregon.

The letter to the Treasury Department supports a request made by Oregon Governor Kate Brown. Congress created the Emergency Rental Assistance Program in December 2020 to prevent families and individuals from being evicted during the COVID-19 pandemic, and President Biden's American Rescue Plan extended the program. Oregon received $289 million from the two rounds of Emergency Rental Assistance Program funding, but the state faces a shortfall in the wake of the omicron variant.

""Many working families in Oregon were already struggling with housing costs or covering rent before the pandemic upended their lives and our economy,"" the members wrote. ""Federal rental assistance has been a critical lifeline for them, and we must continue to make it available for people when they need it most.""

The members noted that Oregon Housing and Community Services projected that, despite historic investments using funds from the American Rescue Plan to deliver additional rental assistance, the state will not be able to meet the demand of both new applications and those that have already been submitted.

Throughout the pandemic, Bonamici has led several efforts to protect renters in Oregon and across the country. She previously led 66 of her colleagues in the House of Representatives in calling for an extension of federal eviction moratoria, and then she urged further protections and deployment of federal resources to stem a tide of potential evictions.

The full letter can be found here and below.

February 11, 2022

The Honorable Janet Yellen

Secretary of the Treasury

U.S. Department of the Treasury

1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20220

Dear Secretary Yellen,

We write today in strong support of Governor Brown's letter reiterating Oregon's request for additional Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program funding. Many working families in Oregon were already struggling with housing costs or covering rent before the pandemic upended their lives and our economy. Federal rental assistance has been a critical lifeline for them, and we must continue to make it available for people when they need it most. As the Department of the Treasury (Treasury) continues to distribute ERA funding through its reallocation authority, we urge you to support Governor Brown's request and consider the clear need to increase the support available for Oregonians who are facing eviction.

Thank you for your commitment to rapidly deploying these resources to stave off what could have been a national wave of mass evictions. Treasury's work has been essential to Oregonians who have received this funding. Now, as the Omicron variant is surging, the reallocation authority Congress provided under this program is critical to preventing another eviction crisis. Beyond the essential federal resources, Oregon has invested additional and historic levels of funding in rental assistance throughout the pandemic. In 2020, the Oregon State Legislature committed $200 million to compensate landlords and deliver rental assistance, and just last month the state of Oregon invested an additional $100 million.

Even with this supplemental state funding, there will still be many Oregonians who could be left behind in accessing rental assistance. Our state's housing agency, Oregon Housing and Community Services, projects that the new state investment will not meet the demand of both new applications and those that have already been submitted. Although we are appreciative of the $1.1 million distributed to Oregon in the first tranche of reallocation funding, thousands of Oregonians are again facing eviction notices and are at even greater risk of experiencing homelessness. A spike in evictions would be especially dangerous to public health. Further, Portland State University's Homeless Research and Action Center projected that evictions in Oregon could cost the state from $720 million up to $4.7 billion or more as people displaced from their homes would raise use of health, shelter, and child welfare services.

We appreciate the work by Treasury to distribute this funding and reduce evictions nationwide. To allow Oregonians the best chance at a safe and stable recovery, we want to reiterate our support of Governor Brown's request to increase ERA reallocation funding to our state. We look forward to your response and our continued work together to prevent unnecessary evictions.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/oregon-leaders-form-task-force-advocate-semiconductor-manufacturing,Oregon Leaders Form Task Force To Advocate for Semiconductor Manufacturing,2022-02-10,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Portland, OR ̶ This week Senator Ron Wyden, Senator Jeff Merkley, Governor Kate Brown, and Representative Suzanne Bonamici announced the formation of the Oregon Semiconductor Competitiveness Taskforce. The purpose of the task force, the conveners noted, is to analyze the state of the semiconductor industry in Oregon and how this important industry can continue to thrive and grow, and help produce prosperity and opportunity for a broad cross-section of Oregonians, in the years and decades ahead. The group will include a range of prominent community leaders and state and local elected officials and will be co-chaired by Senator Wyden, Governor Brown, and Maria Pope, President and CEO of Portland General Electric.

As a global center for the design and production of semiconductor chips, Oregon has a unique opportunity to share in world-wide industry growth spurred by pent-up, accelerating demand and a national interest in securing domestic chip supply. Oregon now has a 15 percent share of national semiconductor employment, which is central to Oregon manufacturing. This part of the tech sector represents 40 percent of state exports, directly employs 40,300 people, and pays wages substantially above average.

With market demand for chips and recent federal incentives, the semiconductor industry is gearing up to invest billions of dollars in new domestic facilities. Capturing a portion of this investment proportionate to Oregon's current share could translate into more than 6,000 well-paying permanent jobs.

""Building up our state's long-time role as an American mainstay for semiconductor production is a must to continue generating good-paying jobs for Oregonians in the metro area and beyond,"" Sen. Wyden said. ""I'm glad this task force has come together to develop innovative and nimble solutions that can take Oregon's semiconductor industry to new heights that power economic growth statewide.""

""I am committed to expanding manufacturing, including semiconductor manufacturing, in Oregon,"" said Governor Brown. ""This industry presents tremendous economic potential for our state, and now is the time to seize the opportunity. I am pleased to be part of this coordinated effort to expand semiconductor industry investment in Oregon and provide opportunities to build up our manufacturing workforce.""

""Oregon's leadership in the development and production of semiconductors has been an incredible economic asset that has produced jobs, growth, and opportunity for thousands of our people,"" said Senator Jeff Merkley. ""Nobody ever gets ahead by looking backwards though, and I'm pleased we're coming together to make sure Oregon is poised to maintain and grow this industry, and ensure that its innovation and wealth generation benefit a broad range of Oregonians, well into the future.""

""Oregon has the talented workforce, innovative leadership, and manufacturing prowess to continue to be a powerhouse in the semi-conductor industry,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""I appreciate Senator Wyden's leadership in creating this task force and I look forward to participating in the important work ahead. As a leader on the Science, Space, and Technology and the Education & Labor Committees, I know that, working together, we can increase Oregon's contribution to the country's growing need for US-made chips and create thousands of good-paying jobs right here at home.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-assistant-speaker-clark-leads-letter-calling-biden-administration,"Bonamici, Assistant Speaker Clark Leads Letter Calling on the Biden Administration to Increase Availability of Tests and Masks for Child Care Providers",2022-02-04,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici joined Assistant Speaker Katherine Clark (MA-5) in leading a letter to President Joe Biden urging his Administration to include child care providers in their plan to increase access to COVID-19 testing and N95 and KN-95 masks across the country. The letter was also co-led by Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-8), Abigail Spanberger (VA-7), and Joaquin Castro (TX-20) and signed by an additional 48 Members of Congress.

""It is clear that child care is essential infrastructure that is fundamental to families, the economy, and our recovery from this pandemic. However, reports suggest that child care disruptions are once again on the rise as the Omicron variant spreads and providers are forced to limit their capacity or close due to illness or staffing issues,"" wrote the lawmakers.

""To help keep child care providers operating and young children safe, we must ensure that providers have access to COVID-19 tests and the recommended N95 and KN-95 masks. Now is the time for a comprehensive strategy to ensure that all child care providers have the resources and guidance they need to safely remain open and provide care. Our economic recovery depends on a reliable and functioning child care system that supports providers, helps children thrive, and enables parents, and especially moms, to return to work.""

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

Dear President Biden:

We write to urge inclusion of child care providers in your Administration's plans to increase access to COVID-19 testing and N95 masks across the country. We appreciate the actions by your Administration to increase access to COVID-19 testing in K-12 schools by 10 million per month as well as your efforts to distribute tests and masks to individual Americans. However, we remain concerned about the significant challenges child care providers are facing as the Omicron variant spreads and the impact this is having on families.

It is clear that child care is essential infrastructure that is fundamental to families, the economy, and our recovery from this pandemic. However, reports suggest that child care disruptions are once again on the rise as the Omicron variant spreads and providers are forced to limit their capacity or close due to illness or staffing issues.[1] This is leaving millions of parents and caregivers in limbo as they face uncertainty on whether they will have access to child care on any given day. These challenges are compounded by the fact that children under five are not yet eligible for vaccines, and data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that COVID-19 hospitalization rates among children in this age group have soared in recent weeks.[2]

To help keep child care providers operating and young children safe, we must ensure that providers have access to COVID-19 tests and the recommended N95 and KN95 masks. Some states have launched their own initiatives to distribute free COVID-19 tests and other supplies to child care providers, and these models have proven effective for providers in detecting positive cases early and avoiding internal spread.[3] However, it is still hard to access COVID-19 tests in many places, and child providers, many of whom are already operating on the margins, have reported spending anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 on rapid and at-home tests for themselves and the families in their care.[4]

Now is the time for a comprehensive strategy to ensure that all child care providers have the resources and guidance they need to safely remain open and provide care. Our economic recovery depends on a reliable and functioning child care system that supports providers, helps children thrive, and enables parents, and especially moms, to return to work.

Thank you for your consideration of this matter and we look forward to working with you to support children and families.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-helps-pass-bill-strengthen-economy,Bonamici Helps Pass Bill to Strengthen Economy,2022-02-04,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [02/4/2021] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici joined the House in passing comprehensive legislation to expand U.S. economic competitiveness by strengthening the nation's scientific enterprise and supply chains.

The America COMPETES Act will provide $52 billion to accelerate semiconductor manufacturing and design and make major investments in U.S. innovation and manufacturing. It contains Bonamici's legislation to address the effects of the climate crisis on our ocean, improve workforce development, and enhance STEAM education.

Bonamici spoke in favor of the legislation on the House floor. Video can be viewed here.

""Our country is home to some of the most cutting-edge research, innovative discoveries, and unparalleled national laboratories in the world,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""Unfortunately, in some ways we have fallen behind competitors in the past several decades. With the America COMPETES Act, we will strengthen our scientific enterprise, bolster research and development, grow our domestic semiconductor manufacturing base, and take steps to address the climate crisis.

""This legislation will make a meaningful difference in the lives of Oregonians. It will strengthen the semiconductor industry, which employs tens of thousands of workers in NW Oregon. It will create good-paying jobs and pathways for workers to enter them. It will also improve our supply chains, fixing many of the weaknesses exposed by the pandemic so we do not again face the same shortages and disruptions to our economy.""

The America COMPETES Act contains the National Apprenticeship Act and PARTNERS Act, which Bonamici led to help small- and medium-sized businesses create partnerships to improve workforce training. It also includes a provision similar to Bonamici's Regional Clean Energy Innovation Act, which will help cutting-edge technologies achieve commercialization by leveraging regional clean energy capabilities and markets.

Additionally, the House passed six amendments offered by Bonamici based on legislation she previously introduced. The amendments will:

Safeguard the health of the ocean by strengthening coastal acidification research and monitoring, expand efforts to map and conserve blue carbon ecosystems, and enhance ocean data collection.

Based on the COAST Research Act, Blue Carbon for our Planet Act, and BLUE GLOBE Act.

Help workers get the skills needed to fill the jobs created by the bipartisan infrastructure law by creating new grants for industry partnerships in the infrastructure sector, including funding for support services for workers such as childcare and transportation.

Based on the BUILDS Act.

Integrate the arts into STEM curriculum by enhancing the National Science Foundation's Mathematics and Science Education Partnerships program to support innovative research and provide professional development for educators.

Based on the Building STEAM Education Act.

Direct the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Director to develop a plan for a national circular economy to reduce emissions and limit waste.

Based on themes in the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis Climate Action Plan.

A fact sheet about the America COMPETES Act can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/science-committee-members-celebrate-transformative-investments-science-and,Science Committee Members Celebrate Transformative Investments for Science and Innovation with House Passage of the America COMPETES Act,2022-02-04,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – Today, the House passed the America Creating Opportunities for Manufacturing, Pre-Eminence in Technology and Economic Strength Act of 2022. The America COMPETES Act makes historic investments to surge production of American-made semiconductors, tackles supply chain vulnerabilities to make more goods in America, bolsters America's scientific research and technological leadership, and strengthens America's economic and national security at home and abroad. The America COMPETES Act of 2022 includes transformative, bipartisan legislation from the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.

""Today, we took a leap forward in securing our Nation's ability to compete and uphold our leadership in science and technology,"" said Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX). ""As Chairwoman of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, I am especially proud of our strong bipartisan bills included in this package. I often refer to this committee as the committee of the future. It is in that spirit that we approached this legislation, to usher in a bold and prosperous future for American competitiveness.""

""The passage of the America COMPETES Act represents renewed enthusiasm in Congress for federal scientific investment, which will set our country up for success,"" said Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-CA). ""By increasing the speed and scale of scientific R&D building on successful prior efforts, America can reaffirm its global leadership in innovation and technology. The legislation includes vital provisions to diversify our workforce, strengthen American manufacturing, energize research in critical areas such as fusion energy and quantum information sciences, and strengthen leadership in semiconductor research and fabrication. In short, this bill provides a chance for American workers and businesses to compete and win on the world stage.""

""Our country is home to some of the most cutting-edge research, innovative discoveries, and unparalleled national laboratories in the world,"" said Representative Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR). ""Unfortunately, in some ways we have fallen behind competitors in the past several decades. With the America COMPETES Act, we will strengthen our scientific enterprise, bolster research and development, grow our domestic semiconductor manufacturing base, and take steps to address the climate crisis. This legislation will make a meaningful difference in the lives of Oregonians. It will strengthen the semiconductor industry, which employs tens of thousands of workers in NW Oregon. It will create good-paying jobs and pathways for workers to enter them. It will also improve our supply chains, fixing many of the weaknesses exposed by the pandemic so we do not again face the same shortages and disruptions to our economy.""

""The COMPETES Act reinforces the United States' role as the undisputed 21st century leader in innovation, technology, and production, while leveling the playing field to allow more American workers and businesses to compete and succeed in the global economy,"" said Representative Ami Bera (D-CA). ""Science and technology are the global currency of our modern era, making this legislation a critical path towards the future with our scientists and innovators leading the way. ""

""The legislation we passed today – the America COMPETES Act –secures our competitive edge for generations to come,"" said Representative Haley Stevens (D-MI). ""This bill is an investment in the American people – it reflects our ability to reach higher, think deeper, and invent solutions to not only today's problems, but tomorrow's problems as well. The tools of the future are in this bill. The COMPETES Act turbocharges America's leadership in science and tech and strengthens our economic security. Even more, this bold investment in innovation includes funding to address the climate crisis head on and will work to return semiconductor manufacturing back to the United States. Let's get this bill to President Biden's desk!""

""New Jersey needs clean, reliable electricity,"" said Representative Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ). ""To this end, I am proud to see a provision I fought for in this bill that would fund research for rooftop solar and reliable grid tech. We need to support energy innovation at home, not buy from China, to give Americans the affordable, renewable energy of tomorrow. And, with that in mind, this bill's critical investments in long-duration energy storage technology will help us develop new and better ways to increase grid resiliency and reliability so we have less of the power outages North Jersey has come to expect. I am glad to see this bill pass the House today.""

""New Mexicans are at the forefront of science and technology—which is why I am so proud that the America COMPETES Act, of which I am a proud cosponsor, invests in our workforce and STEM economy from the ground up,"" saidRepresentative Melanie Stansbury (D-NM). ""I'm proud to have worked with Senator Luján, one of New Mexico's science and technology champions, to secure key amendments to help facilitate technology transfer from our National Labs to unlock innovations that will grow our economy and help tackle our biggest challenges in climate and clean energy. I am also honored to have worked with my colleagues on the Science, Space and Technology Committee to help craft this game-changing legislation.""

""The America COMPETES Act will set us on a strong path to compete globally in innovation and technology,"" said Representative Brad Sherman (D-CA). ""I'm proud to co-sponsor this transformative and bipartisan House Science Committee legislation and look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this package.""

""The America COMPETES Act is a commitment to reinvest in and refocus on U.S. leadership in science, innovation, and competitiveness,"" said Representative Ed Perlmutter (D-CO). ""These investments are critically needed and will set us on a strong path to compete globally in innovation and technology for decades to come.""

""I was proud to vote for the America COMPETES Act – a historic investment in our nation's economic future and our position as the world's leader for science, technology, and innovation,"" said Representative Bill Foster (D-IL). ""This is an opportunity to strengthen our STEM workforce, reinforce our national security, enhance our semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, and provide America's national labs with the resources they need to maintain our world-class scientific infrastructure. As a scientist who spent 24 years working at one of our national labs, I know how important these investments will be to our scientists and their capacity for research, development, and innovation. I'm looking forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to bring this legislation to President Biden's desk.""

""I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation that will bring jobs back to the United States and address critical shortages in our supply chain,"" said Representative Donald Norcross (D-NJ). ""As a 40-year veteran of the labor movement, I am particularly proud to secure Davis-Bacon prevailing wage protections across large swaths of the bill, ensuring Americans receive fair pay for their work and that federal contractor aren't undercutting local wages. The America COMPETES Act will create a path toward long-term competitiveness on the international stage, helping to ensure American workers have opportunities and American-made goods have markets.""

""The America COMPETES Act is vital job creation legislation that will boost American research and development, innovation, technology, and manufacturing, strengthen our supply chains, and help American businesses compete on the world stage,"" said Representative Don Beyer (D-VA). ""I'm proud to have helped craft provisions in this bill, including an amendment I co-led to boost funding for fusion energy research, as well as my legislation to improve and secure the federal government's data analysis capabilities. The bill which just passed in the House is superb, and I look forward to working with the Senate to get a final version to President Biden's desk.""

""To combat inflation and cut rising prices for millions of Floridians, we need to stop relying on China and global supply chains that are vulnerable to delays and disruptions - like a global pandemic,"" said Representative Charlie Crist (D-FL). ""The America COMPETES Act is a game changer for American manufacturing and innovation, so we can make more of the things we need right here at home and use American workers to do it. I proudly support this legislation championed by President Biden and congressional Democrats to keep our shelves stocked and prices low. Make American! Buy American!""

""This is another win for western Pennsylvania,"" said Representative Conor Lamb (D-PA). ""Federal dollars will flow here and create jobs once this becomes law. By investing in low-carbon steel, strengthening our supply chains, and supporting cutting-edge science, we can greatly improve America's global competitiveness.""

""Our nation has long been a global leader in science and technology, propelled by companies and universities like those in my district that perform cutting-edge research every day,"" said Representative Deborah Ross (D-NC). ""At a time when America faces unprecedented international competition, the America COMPETES Act will reinforce our nation's global leadership in science, technology, and innovation. With this legislation, we will tackle some of the most pressing challenges we face by investing in American manufacturing, supporting the next generation of STEM leaders, and advancing clean energy technology. I'm excited that this package includes several of my bills and amendments that will support our growing and diverse STEM workforce, bolster our nation's cybersecurity, advance a national science strategy, and more. I thank Chairwoman Johnson for her decades of leadership that have led us to this historic moment. I look forward to continue working with my colleagues in the Senate to ensure this legislation is signed into law.""

""The COMPETES Act is vital to addressing urgent, pressing issues such as supply change disruptions and semiconductor shortages and building for the future with investments in research and innovation,"" said Representative Gwen Moore (D-WI). ""My colleagues and I on the Science, Space, and Technology Committee made important contributions to the COMPETES Act, including by supporting cutting-edge STEM research.""

""By addressing supply chain issues and bringing back critical manufacturing to the United States, we can fight inflation and lower costs for Michigan families,"" said Representative Dan Kildee (D-MI). ""The pandemic has exposed deep weaknesses in our supply chains that have increasingly relied on foreign manufacturing, instead of making goods in Michigan with American workers. This bill will help fix our broken supply chains so that we build more critical components—like semiconductors—here in America, not overseas in China.""

""The America COMPETES Act builds on our country's extraordinary promise to lead in technology and innovation,"" said Representative Susan Wild (D-PA). ""The need to secure our supply chains and rebuild a Made-in-America economy couldn't be clearer, and I'm incredibly proud to see the America COMPETES Act pass with my bipartisan provisions. Together, we are investing in a future powered by American workers, scientists, and entrepreneurs.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-introduces-bill-accelerate-clean-energy-economy,Bonamici Introduces Bill to Accelerate Clean Energy Economy,2022-02-02,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [02/2/2021] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici introduced legislation to accelerate clean energy technology deployment and support regional pathways to decarbonization.

The Regional Clean Energy Innovation Act will establish regional partnerships that will help overcome existing barriers to bringing new clean energy technologies to market. It creates a Department of Energy Office of Advanced Clean Energy Technologies to designate and oversee the partnerships, called Regional Energy Innovation and Development Institutes (REIDIs), and support their activities. Partnerships will consist of local and state governments, academia, labor organizations, national laboratories, businesses, Tribes, and other eligible organizations.

""Developing and bringing to market clean energy technologies that meet local and regional needs is essential to our successful transition to a clean energy economy,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""The Regional Clean Energy Innovation Act will create partnerships that bring together relevant stakeholders to overcome innovation barriers and deploy clean energy solutions that support decarbonization. These partnerships will help move our nation closer to achieving net-zero emissions.""

""Expanding clean energy research and development at the regional level is an important part of addressing the climate crisis,"" said Marc Boom, Director of Federal Affairs at the Natural Resources Defense Council. ""Creating partnerships to focus on overcoming regional differences to clean energy deployment, job creation and investment in marginalized communities will help ensure better solutions for all. We thank Rep. Bonamici for her leadership.""

In a 2021 report, the International Energy Agency found that 35 percent of all CO2 emissions reductions needed to meet Paris Agreement climate goals will come from technologies currently at the prototype or demonstration phases. Historically, U.S. investments in innovation often focus on the conceptual and early research stages. This results in valuable projects succumbing to the ""valley of death,"" an inability to transition from the research stage to demonstration, and eventually deployment and commercialization. The Regional Clean Energy Innovation Act builds on a recommendation from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine that called for REIDIs to address this problem.

A summary of the Regional Clean Energy Innovation Act can be found here. The text of the legislation can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/lead-sponsors-save-our-seas-20-act-call-increased-consultation-congress-biden,Lead Sponsors of Save Our Seas 2.0 Act Call for Increased Consultation with Congress as the Biden Administration Seeks New Global Agreement to Combat Ocean Plastic Pollution,2022-02-02,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Menendez (D-N.J) today was joined by Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska)andSheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Representatives Don Young (R-Alaska)and Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.) on a letter to Assistant Secretary for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs Monica Medina laying out the lawmakers' expectations for the start of the Fifth United Nations Environment Assembly's (UNEA 5.2) negotiations on a new agreement to address ocean plastic pollution. UNEA 5.2 will take place in Nairobi, Kenya between February 28 and March 2. In addition to welcoming the establishment of an Intergovernmental Negotiation Committee to manage and oversee negotiations on a global agreement to combat ocean plastic pollution, the lawmakers called for the State Department's robust engagement with Congress throughout the process of developing the new agreement.

""We appreciate receiving the recent report to Congress, in accordance with the Save our Seas 2.0 Act, which outlined the initial terms of the UNEA negotiations,"" the lawmakers wrote. ""As you undertake this welcome task, we urge and expect you to consult with Congress ahead of the formal decision to initiate the negotiations process and provide regular consultations during the period in which a new international agreement to address ocean plastic pollution is being developed and negotiated.""

In accordance with their Save Our Seas 2.0 Act, which was signed into law in December 2020 and serves as the most comprehensive legislation ever passed by Congress to address the plastic debris crisis threatening coastal ecosystems and communities and harming marine life, the lawmakers also pressed the State Department to work toward an agreement that considers the impact of and advances efforts to eliminate land-based sources of plastic waste and establishes measurable targets for reducing ocean plastic pollution, among other provisions.

Find a copy of the letter hereand below.

Dear Assistant Secretary Medina:

As the lead sponsors of the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act (P.L. 116-224), we write you regarding the Fifth United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA 5.2) in Nairobi where the body aims to find agreement on the establishment of an Intergovernmental Negotiation Committee. The Committee would manage and oversee the development and launch negotiations on a global agreement to combat ocean plastic pollution under the United Nations Environment Programme. As you undertake this welcome task, we urge and expect you to consult with Congress ahead of the formal decision to initiate the negotiations process and provide regular consultations during the period in which a new international agreement to address ocean plastic pollution is being developed and negotiated.

In accordance with the objectives outlined in the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act, we expect the State Department to work towards achieving an agreement that:

considers the impact of land-based sources of plastic waste on marine and aquatic environments;

advances efforts to eliminate land-based sources of plastic waste that impact marine and aquatic environment;

establishes measurable targets for reducing ocean plastic pollution;

ensures that the UNEA commits to significantly increasing efforts to promote investment in plastic waste elimination and mitigation projects; and

encourages partnerships, consultation, and coordination with civil society, international organizations and financial institutions, subnational coastal communities, fishing industry leaders, and the private sector in developing and executing strategies and policies for addressing plastic pollution.

We appreciate receiving the recent report to Congress, in accordance with the Save our Seas 2.0 Act, which outlined the initial terms of the UNEA negotiations. We wish you the best as you head to Nairobi and look forward to robust consultations with Congress as you move forward.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-stefanik-advocate-container-size-flexibility-families-dairy-farmers,"Bonamici, Stefanik Advocate for Container Size Flexibility for Families, Dairy Farmers",2022-01-27,2022,2022-01,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswomen Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Elise Stefanik (R-NY) today led a bipartisan letter requesting the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary provide container size flexibility in the WIC program to improve families' food choices and access to certain foods, including dairy items such as yogurt.

Under current guidelines for the Special Supplemental Nutritional Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), restrictions on sizes for eligible foods can prevent participants from accessing popular or nutritious options. This has become increasingly more difficult as recent supply chain issues have created less certainty for consumers at the grocery store, which the lawmakers pointed out in the letter.

""WIC is a lifeline for many families, providing infants and children with the nutritious meals they need to grow and thrive,"" said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. ""The current size restrictions some states choose for products like yogurt create an unnecessary barrier to healthy foods. I'm pleased to join Congresswoman Stefanik in urging the USDA to follow the recommendations of the National Academies, encourage states to provide flexibility for families, and increase access to more nutritious foods.""

""I am working to expand access to healthy and nutritious choices for our families,"" said Congresswoman Elise Stefanik. ""Our proposed rule change would also be good news for our North Country dairy farmers, who work hard to provide nutritious milk, yogurt, and cheese for families across the nation. I want to thank Congresswoman Bonamici for joining me to address this.""

This letter comes in advance of the USDA issuing a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for revisions to the supplemental food package for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for WIC.

""Building a modern WIC shopping experience for the program's 6.2 million participants requires a broader range of healthy food options available on the shelf. WIC shoppers, like any other consumer, should not be limited to specific containers or package sizes when nutritionally comparable alternatives are stocked and within reach,"" said Brian Dittmeier, senior director of public policy for the National WIC Association. ""We thank Congresswomen Stefanik and Bonamici for elevating the practical challenges faced by WIC families and lifting up a straightforward solution to improve the WIC retail experience and advance nutrition security for America's next generation. Five years ago, the National Academies of Sciences urged a series of science-based reforms that would resolve package size challenges, especially for yogurt and whole-wheat breads, and expand access to nutritious foods for WIC shoppers. It is time for USDA to deliver and revise the WIC food packages.""

""IDFA is grateful to Reps. Stefanik and Bonamici for seeking to increase consumption of WIC-approved dairy products by urging USDA to include the yogurt sizes and varieties that both meet the needs of WIC families and are widely available in stores. Unfortunately, 90% of Americans do not meet the levels of dairy consumption recommended by the Dietary Guidelines, and that deficiency is especially problematic for mothers, infants and toddlers who rely on the essential nutrients that dairy products provide for cognitive development, heart health, bone health and numerous other health goals. In 2015, the WIC food package added yogurt as a dairy option but that benefit often goes unused due to many states not allowing more commonly sold single-serve containers, which have more varieties and more convenient to dispense to children. We urge USDA to take up these and other commonsense reforms in their upcoming WIC food package update,"" said Michael Dykes, D.V.M., President and CEO, International Dairy Foods Association.

Read the full letter here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:50:39Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-department-energy-announces-25-million-cutting-edge-wave-energy-research,US Department of Energy Announces $25 Million for Cutting-Edge Wave Energy Research,2022-01-25,2022,2022-01,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced $25 million in funding to support increased research, development, and demonstration of technologies that harness wave power to create electricity. The funding supports eight projects that will make up the first round of open-water testing at the PacWave South test site off the Oregon coast. These awards will strengthen wave energy technologies to accelerate their commercial viability and deploy them at scale to help decarbonize the grid and reach President Biden's goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

""Harnessing the unrelenting power of the ocean is a clean, innovative, and sustainable way to curtail carbon pollution - benefitting American businesses and families, especially coastal communities hit hardest by the impacts of climate change,"" said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. ""Diversifying and expanding our clean energy sources will usher in a new era of energy independence that makes the grid more resilient, curbs the climate crisis, and saves Americans money on their energy bills.""

""PacWave in Oregon is at the forefront of wave energy, thanks in large part to the visionary researchers at Oregon State University. This federal investment of $25 million will allow innovative technologies from across the country, including one from Portland State University, to be tested right here in Oregon, bringing us closer to realizing the potential of this tremendous resource. I've long been a champion for wave energy because it can play an important part in our transition to a clean energy economy. The award Secretary Granholm announced today is a milestone in the effort to make wave energy a reality,"" said U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01).

Waves are created when wind blows over the surface of open water in the ocean, and this movement results in a substantial amount of natural energy. Wave energy converters, which capture and convert waves into carbon-free electricity, require testing in realistic conditions to be deployed at scale. Obstacles to testing in the open ocean include permitting challenges and a scarcity of available test sites. In 2016, DOE partnered with Oregon State University to build the PacWave South test facility, which will be the nation's first accredited, grid-connected, pre-permitted, open-water wave energy test facility.

The selected projects are part of DOE's Water Power Technologies Office (WPTO) funding opportunity, ""Advancing Wave Energy Technologies through Open Water Testing at PacWave."" This funding opportunity is part of WPTO's efforts to support wave energy technologies through research, development, and eventual deployment.

The eight projects focus on:

Testing wave energy converter designs for use in geographically remote areas or on small, local energy grids.

CalWave Power Technologies Inc. (Oakland, CA) (Award amount: $7,500,000)

Columbia Power Technologies Inc. (Charlottesville, VA) (Award amount: $4,182,275)

Developing wave energy converter designs that can be either connected to or disconnected from the electricity grid.

Dehlsen Associates, LLC (Santa Barbara, CA) (Award amount: $1,800,000)

Oscilla Power Inc. (Seattle, WA) (Award amount: $1,800,000)

Performing research and development at PacWave related to environmental monitoring technologies, instrumentation systems that operators use to control wave energy converters, and other technologies.

Integral Consulting (Seattle, WA) (Award amount: $379,329)

Littoral Power Systems, Inc. (New Bedford, MA) (Award amount: $3,976,401)

Portland State University (Portland, OR) (Award amount: $4,507,330)

University of Washington (Seattle, WA) (Award amount: $1,299,689)

""Wave energy is an essential piece of the strategy to combat the climate crisis, and I'm gratified that Oregon State University, Portland State University and our state will play a central role in developing this energy source to its full potential,"" said U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (OR). ""I look forward very much to what the innovative minds at both OSU and PSU as well as elsewhere develop with these projects that put our country on the path to a clean energy future.""

""Thanks to this funding from the Department of Energy, these nine projects will be diving in to advance our clean energy economy,"" said U.S. Senator Ed Markey (MA). ""These federal grants will provide the necessary investments to responsibly and more efficiently harness power from U.S. waters, extending all the way from New Bedford, Massachusetts to the Pacific Northwest. Let's ride these waves to our clean energy future.""

""To meet our climate goals, we must support American innovation,"" said U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (CA). ""This funding for institutions across California to research and advance wave energy technology has the potential to be an important part of our carbon-free future. I am proud to support research that will help pioneer American-made technology, create jobs and deliver clean, affordable energy.""

""I am happy to see the Department of Energy's recognition and continued support for the Central Coast's own Dehlsen Associates for their work to capture wave energy,"" said U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24). ""Wave energy promises to be an important component of our clean energy future and I'm proud to represent businesses like Dehlsen Associates, which has a long history of innovative solutions to the renewable energy challenges we face.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:50:39Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-helps-deliver-877-million-oregon-families-assist-home-energy-costs,Bonamici Helps Deliver $87.7 Million to Oregon Families to Assist with Home Energy Costs,2022-01-07,2022,2022-01,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) announced the delivery of $87.7 million to Oregon through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) through the American Rescue Plan and the state's annual funding allocation. LIHEAP provides grants to state agencies to help low-income families manage costs associated with home energy bills, energy crises, and minor energy-related home repairs.

""Making sure Oregonians can stay safe in their homes must be a priority during the ongoing pandemic,"" said Congresswoman Bonamici. ""Since 2020, I have been calling for increased LIHEAP funding so no one has to decide between paying their energy bills or buying food and medication. This injection of federal funds will more than double Oregon's typical annual funding and allow more households to receive support with their heating and utility bills.""

""One of the hardest parts of our jobs at CAT is when we hear from someone who needs help but there are no more funds available. That is too often the case with heating assistance,"" said Dan Brown, Executive Director of Community Action Team, Inc in Clatsop, Columbia, and Tillamook counties. ""We appreciate Congresswoman Bonamici's advocacy for additional LIHEAP funding. With these new resources, we will be able to help many more seniors and families stay warm this winter.""

More than 90 percent of households receiving LIHEAP include at least one person with a disability, a child under 18, a veteran, or a senior citizen. A new report from the White House outlines how Congresswoman Bonamici and her colleagues delivered more than double the typical annual investment to help Oregon families afford energy costs. As Oregonians continue to experience the effects of the COVID pandemic and omicron surge, this critical assistance will help families, seniors, and other vulnerable Oregonians afford the costs of staying warm this winter.

Families who need assistance should contact the Oregon Energy and Weatherization Office.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:50:39Z