url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-announces-190-million-for-maine-rural-hospitals-and-providers-through-rural-health-transformation-program,Senator Collins Announces $190 Million for Maine Rural Hospitals and Providers through Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced that Maine will receive $190 million in first-year funding through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), a $50 billion initiative that will be awarded over five years that she proposed to support rural health care systems across the country. Maine’s population is the oldest of any state in the nation and is among the most rural, placing unique strains on its rural health care system. “I proposed $50 billion in funding for the Rural Health Transformation Program to help give rural states like Maine the resources they need to keep health care available close to home,” said Senator Collins. “This funding will help strengthen our rural hospitals and support innovative approaches that can lower costs and improve health outcomes for Mainers no matter where they live. And while this investment will not solve every challenge facing our state’s rural health care system, it represents an important step toward improving access to care for individuals across rural Maine and comes at a time when many rural health care providers are facing significant financial hardship.” The Rural Health Transformation Program represents the largest single federal investment in rural health care in more than two decades. Senator Collins proposed the funding during negotiations over amendments to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. She successfully pushed to expand the RHTP to $50 billion and ensure that a broader range of rural providers would be eligible for support, despite voting against the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is expected to distribute the $50 billion initiative in tranches of $10 billion over each of the next five years. The State of Maine’s application for RHTP funding, submitted by the State with the support of the entire congressional delegation, focuses on five core priorities: empowering rural Mainers to achieve their own healthy living goals; strengthening the rural health workforce; adopting health-enabling technologies such as telehealth and electronic medical records; reducing financial and transportation-related barriers to care; and sustaining the long-term viability of Maine’s rural health care ecosystem. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/bipartisan-election-security-provision-co-authored-by-senator-collins-signed-into-law,Bipartisan Election Security Provision Co-authored by Senator Collins Signed into Law,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C — Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Mark Warner (D-VA) to strengthen the security of U.S. election infrastructure was included in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and signed into law. In May, Senator Collins joined Senator Warner in introducing the Strengthening Election Cybersecurity to Uphold Respect for Elections through Independent Testing (SECURE IT) Act. A provision of this legislation directing the Election Assistance Commission (EAC) to require that election systems seeking certification undergo penetration testing was included in the annual defense bill and is now law. This penetration testing will allow researchers to search for vulnerabilities by attempting to attack a system with the same tools and techniques used by cybercriminals, thus better protecting our election systems from legitimate attacks. “We must take every precaution to prevent interference in our elections. This bipartisan legislation will strengthen the integrity of our election process by ensuring that voting systems are safe and secure, and help protect and bolster public confidence in our elections.” said Senator Collins. Several other provisions and amendments authored or co-authored by Senator Collins were included in the final NDAA that passed the Senate last week: Berry Amendment-Compliant Footwear Report. Amendment filed by Senator Collins will require the Department of Defense to submit a report on the U.S. boot industrial base and a plan to achieve full Berry Amendment compliance for combat footwear. Public Shipyard Apprentice Program. Amendment filed by Senator Collins will strengthen the skilled trades pipeline at public shipyards like Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Counter Act. Cosponsored by Senator Collins, provisions from this bill will expand the Department of Defense’s authority to defend its facilities from illegal drone activity. The NDAA also includes several provisions Senator Collins strongly advocated for that will benefit Maine: Support for U.S. Troops. Authorizes a 3.8 percent pay raise for all service members—including the thousands of Maine men and women serving in uniform. Includes reforms to streamline and modernize defense procurement to ensure our military is better equipped and supplied. Directs a study on behavioral and mental health staffing shortfalls at military medical treatment facilities to improve access to care for service members and their families. Support for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. $227.8 million for power reliability and water resilience upgrades. $220.8 million for the Multi-Mission Drydock #1 extension. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-attends-ribbon-cutting-for-renovated-runway-at-bangor-international-airport,Senator Collins Attends Ribbon Cutting for Renovated Runway at Bangor International Airport,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. BANGOR, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins participated in the ribbon cutting for the renovated runway at Bangor International Airport. The new renovations will help the airport adapt to an unprecedented increase in air traffic. More than half of the funding for this project—$28 million—came from five Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grants awarded since 2022. “Bangor International Airport plays a vital role in Maine’s economy, our national defense, and our state’s connectivity to the rest of the world,” said Senator Collins. “This renovated runway will improve safety, accommodate growing air traffic, and ensure that the airport remains prepared to serve both civilian and military operations well into the future.” In 2021, Senator Collins was one of 10 senators who negotiated the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that provided $15 billion for FAA airport improvement grant programs to support renovations, new construction, and upgrades at airports nationwide. Since joining the Appropriations Committee in 2009, Senator Collins has helped to secure more than $1 billion in competitive transportation grants for the State of Maine. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-kim-introduce-bicameral-bill-to-expand-participation-in-clinical-trials,"Senators Collins, Kim Introduce Bicameral Bill to Expand Participation in Clinical Trials",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Andy Kim (D-NJ) introduced the bipartisan NIH Clinical Trial Integrity Act to increase demographic representation in clinical trials funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Companion legislation is also being introduced in the House of Representatives, led by U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1) and Robin Kelly (D-IL-2). “Biomedical research holds tremendous promise for treating many of the most costly and devastating diseases we face. To ensure that the benefits of cutting-edge medical science reach all Americans, it is important that participants in clinical trials reflect our overall population,” said Senator Collins. “By encouraging long-term planning and improving demographic representation in clinical studies, this bipartisan legislation would help enhance the effectiveness of critical research that is conducted and sponsored by the NIH.” “We have a responsibility to ensure Americans of all backgrounds have fair and equal access to treatment and care. This needs to begin with fair and equal representation in the earliest stages of health research and testing, including clinical trials. I hope we can come together to use this legislation as a tool to combat dangerous and persistent health inequities that are putting communities of color and diverse backgrounds at-risk,” said Senator Kim. Specifically, the NIH Clinical Trial Integrity Act would: Require NIH to work with clinical trial sponsors to develop clear and measurable recruitment and retention goals based on disease/condition prevalence as well as a rationale for specified goals and a recruitment plan; Ensure the availability of less burdensome follow-ups during clinical trials (e.g. fewer follow ups, phone participation, weekend hours) to increase participation of underrepresented populations; and Launch a public awareness campaign across federal agencies related to research participation opportunities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7052,President Trump Signs FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act Into Law,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Rick W. Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,allen,https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Tonight, President Donald J. Trump signed H. Amdt. to S. 1071, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026, into law. The NDAA authorizes annual funding levels for the U.S. Armed Forces and sets expenditures for the Department of Defense (DoD). Congressman Rick W. Allen supported this legislation on the House floor and issued the following statement upon the bill becoming public law: ""With President Trump's signature, the FY2026 NDAA officially delivers on our peace-through-strength agenda with a generational investment in our national defense. Not only does this bipartisan bill ensure America's warfighters are the most lethal and capable fighting force in the world, but it also improves the quality of life for our servicemembers in the 12th District and nationwide. I was proud to support this bill and will continue to stand with the men and women who make up our nation's Armed Forces,"" said Congressman Allen. The FY2026 NDAA: Secures funding to continue critical missions at the Savannah River Site (SRS) Provides enlisted servicemembers with a 4% pay raise. Expands our counter-drone defenses and new technologies. Advances the Golden Dome and enhances America’s nuclear deterrent and new nuclear power technologies. Enacts guardrails to protect America’s long-term investments and economic interests. Fully supports the deployment of National Guard and active-duty troops at the southwest border to intercept illegal aliens and drugs. Enhances U.S. defense initiatives in the Indo-Pacific to bolster Taiwan’s defense and support Indo-Pacific allies. Revitalizes American shipbuilding and expands the Maritime Industrial Base. Strengthens U.S.-Israel military operations and cooperative missile defense programs. Strengthens our defense industrial base and supply chains. Reforms the defense acquisition process to eliminate regulatory barriers, enhance speed, and scale capacity for our Warfighters. Accelerates the development and delivery of space capabilities to counter Chinese and Russian nuclear arsenals and space surveillance. Streamlines operations by eliminating $20 billion in obsolete weapons, inefficient programs, and Pentagon bureaucracy. Prohibits contracts with advertising firms, like NewsGuard Technologies Inc., that blacklist conservative news sources. Restores merit-based promotions and admissions to service academies. Counters antisemitism and eliminates programs that discourage military readiness, like CRT, DEI, and climate initiatives. FY26 NDAA bill text can be accessed HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3385,Rep. Clyde Applauds Trump Administration’s Illegal Immigration Crackdown in Northeast Georgia,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Andrew S. Clyde,C001116,clyde.house.gov,clyde,https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) lauded the actions of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for arresting criminal illegal aliens in Georgia’s Ninth Congressional District. DHS recently launched its Worst of the Worst database to allow the American people to track the criminal illegal aliens that ICE has taken off our streets and out of our communities. The arrests include hundreds of criminal illegals in the Peach State, including 29 in Northeast Georgia — predominately in Gainesville and Lawrenceville. “Illegal aliens have no place in the Ninth District, especially those committing violent crimes and bringing lethal drugs into our communities,” said Clyde. “Thanks to President Trump, law enforcement officials are once again empowered to remove criminal illegals from our streets — including right here in Northeast Georgia. I commend DHS and ICE for their swift and decisive action to arrest and deport these dangerous criminals, bringing long-overdue accountability to those who break our laws and threaten public safety.” Here are just a few examples of the dangerous illegals arrested in Northeast Georgia: Felipe Perez-Garcia Country of origin: Guatemala Arrested in: Gainesville, GA Convicted of: Battery Diego Rojas-Bermudez Country of origin: Colombia Arrested in: Gainesville, GA Convicted of: Cruelty Toward Child, Traffic Offense Dagoberto Padilla Raudalles Country of origin: Honduras Arrested in: Lawrenceville, GA Convicted of: Aggravated Assault - Non-family-Strongarm, Dangerous Drugs Carlos Estrada-Becerra Country of origin: Mexico Arrested in: Clayton, GA Convicted of: Arson David Jimenez Garcia Country of origin: Mexico Arrested in: Blue Ridge, GA Convicted of: Possession of Amphetamine Background",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/subcommittee-chairman-mccormick-opens-investigations-and-oversight-hearing,Subcommittee Chairman McCormick Opens Investigations and Oversight Hearing on Research Security,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Richard McCormick,M001218,mccormick.house.gov,mccormick,https://mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, at the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee's hearing, Research Security: Examining the Implementation of the CHIPS and Science Act and NSPM-33, Investigations and Oversight Subcommittee Chairman Rich McCormick delivered opening remarks stressing the importance of reciprocity in global engagement within the American research enterprise. ""American science has long benefited from global engagement, but that engagement must be reciprocal,"" Chairman McCormick said. ""Every federally funded institution—large or small, public or private—must follow the law, disclose foreign affiliations, manage conflicts of interest and conflicts of commitment, and protect its data and infrastructure from theft or manipulation."" His full remarks are available hereand below. Today’s hearing examines an issue that should transcend party lines: protecting America’s research enterprise from foreign adversaries who seek to steal, exploit, or undermine the innovations that keep our nation secure and competitive. For decades, the openness of the U.S. research system has been one of our greatest strengths. But in an era of intensifying global competition—especially from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)—that openness has also become a target. The United States invests billions of taxpayer dollars every year in cutting-edge research. Those investments support our economy, drive technological breakthroughs, and underpin our national defense. They must be protected. Recognizing these growing threats, the first Trump Administration took critical steps to safeguard research from foreign espionage and undue influence. The National Security Presidential Memorandum 33 on National Security Strategy for United States Government-Supported Research and Development or NSPM-33, issued in January 2021, ordered the federal government to establish a unified national strategy to secure U.S. research and development. It was the first comprehensive policy aimed at closing the gaps that foreign actors have exploited for years. The CHIPS and Science Act, passed in 2022, furthered this mandate with additional provisions for agencies and institutions to follow. Unfortunately, despite these clear directives, implementation has been slow. Guidance was delayed, requirements were left ambiguous, and research institutions were forced to navigate compliance largely on their own. As a result, the burden fell to the current Administration to rapidly implement strict guidance —placing pressure on agencies, universities, and laboratories that should have received clarity much earlier. In the past year, we have finally seen progress. The National Science Foundation issued updated research security guidance in July that took effect this October. These policies now require institutions to establish formal research security programs, conduct research security assessments, maintain documentation of foreign affiliations, and implement training for all personnel supported by federal research grants. But there is still much work ahead. This Committee has repeatedly heard from universities and research organizations that federal guidance remains confusing, inconsistent, or incomplete. And we know from documented cases that these threats are not theoretical. They are real, they are ongoing, and they demand a coordinated national response. To be clear, the CCP is not our only concern. Other malign foreign actors are also seeking to exploit gaps in our research security framework. That is why implementation of these directives must be thorough, timely, and unambiguous, making today’s discussion all the more important. American science has long benefited from global engagement, but that engagement must be reciprocal. Every federally funded institution—large or small, public or private—must follow the law, disclose foreign affiliations, manage conflicts of interest and conflicts of commitment, and protect its data and infrastructure from theft or manipulation. Congress has a responsibility to ensure that federal agencies enforce these requirements and that institutions receiving taxpayer dollars meet them. These requirements are a starting point. Many institutions may require more robust protections given the nature of the work they conduct. Oversight is not optional; it is essential. The integrity of our research enterprise—and our national security—depends on it. Today, we will evaluate the progress made in implementing NSPM-33 and the CHIPS and Science Act, identify the barriers that still impede compliance, and determine whether additional legislative or regulatory action is needed. Our objective is clear: to ensure that America’s research remains secure, competitive, and worthy of the trust the American people place in it.",1,2026-04-16T05:48:36Z,2026-04-16T05:50:08Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16049,ENDORSEMENT ALERT: GOP Doctors Caucus supports Carter bill to reduce prescription drug costs,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The GOP Doctors Caucus this week announced its endorsement of Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter’s (R-GA) bipartisan bill, the PBM Reform Act, which will reduce the cost of lifesaving drugs for patients by protecting patients and pharmacies from the harmful and anticompetitive business practices of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). ""Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) are middlemen that drive up the cost of lifesaving drugs for patients,"" said GOP Doctors Caucus Co-Chairs Rep. Greg Murphy, M.D. & Rep. John Joyce, M.D. ""Reform is long overdue to rein in the abuse of PBMs, which prioritize profits over patients through shady practices such as pushing high-cost drugs, limiting consumer access, monopolizing the market, and reimbursing pharmacies at unacceptable rates. This legislation will make much-needed reforms to put patients first."" “It’s time to bust up the PBM monopoly, which has been stealing hope and health from patients for decades. As a pharmacist, I’ve seen how PBMs abuse patients firsthand, and I believe that the cure to this infectious disease is transparency, competition, and accountability, which is exactly what our bipartisan package provides,” said Rep. Carter. “I thank the GOP Doctors Caucus, of which I’m a proud member, for its endorsement today and urge House floor consideration of this critical bill.” The PBM Reform Act will: Ban “spread pricing” in Medicaid and move to a transparent system that ensures pharmacies are fairly and adequately reimbursed for serving Medicaid beneficiaries. Establish new requirements for PBMs under Medicare Part D, including a policy to delink PBM compensation from the cost of medications and increase transparency. Promote transparency for both employers and patients in their prescription drug plans, with semi-annual reporting on drug spending, rebates, and formulary determinations. Require the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to define and enforce ""reasonable and relevant"" contract terms in Medicare Part D pharmacy contracts and enforce oversight on reported violations. Read full bill text here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16050,Carter-led bill reducing unnecessary animal testing passes Senate,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today celebrated passage of the Senate companion to his bipartisan bill, the FDA Modernization Act 3.0. This bill will require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to fully implement the FDA Modernization Act 2.0, signed into law in 2022, ensuring that safe and effective treatments are developed for patients using advanced and innovative non-animal testing methods. The bill now heads to the House for consideration. “It is inhumane to rely solely on animal testing of medical products when other, harmless methods exist that are more predictive of human outcomes. The FDA Modernization Act 2.0, and today’s vote by the Senate, have paved the way for modernizing the FDA’s testing methods. This bill will accelerate innovation and get safer, more effective drugs to market quickly by cutting unnecessary red tape,” said Rep. Carter. “There is no reason for the House to delay its vote on this necessary, bipartisan bill that strengthens recent actions by the Trump administration.” Original co-sponsors of the House bill include: Reps. Nanette Barragán (D-CA), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), and Troy Carter (D-LA). The Senate bill is led by: U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Rand Paul (R-KY), Angus King (I-ME), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), John Kennedy (R-LA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and Roger Marshall (R-KS). Read full bill text here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16052,Carter statement on House passage of bill to lower health care costs,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 6703, the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act, a bill lowering health care costs and providing American citizens with more affordable coverage: “Liberal politicians like Jon Ossoff want to continue giving handouts to Big Insurance and illegal immigrants, making your health outcomes worse, instead of addressing the heart of the problem, which is that the UnAffordable Care Act isn’t working. Democrats spent years dismantling our health care system and causing an affordability crisis. With this vote, House Republicans began the hard work of undoing more than a decade of harm to patients nationwide. By driving down health insurance premiums, increasing pharmacy benefit manager transparency, and expanding affordable health care options, we are ensuring that American citizens have access to the high-quality health care they deserve at a rate they can afford.” The Lower Health Care Premiums for All Act: Lowers Premiums for all Americans Pharmacy Benefit Manager Transparency: Requires PBMs to provide employers with detailed data on prescription drug spending, rebates, spread pricing, and formulary decisions—empowering plans and workers with the transparency they deserve. Appropriates Cost Sharing Reduction Payments: Provides necessary funding for CSR payments beginning in 2027, lowering premiums and stabilizing the individual market while ensuring taxpayer dollars are used responsibly. Relief would be better directed towards low-income enrollees that need them. Improves Health Care Options for America’s Workers Association Health Plans: Expands access to Association Health Plans by allowing employers—including self-employed workers—to band together across industries to purchase affordable, high-quality coverage. Access to Stop-Loss Insurance: Ensures small and mid-sized employers can protect themselves from catastrophic claims by clarifying that stop-loss insurance is not “health insurance coverage.” This would allow small businesses to offer their employees more tailored, affordable care. CHOICE Arrangements: Codifies and strengthens 2019 rules allowing employers to offer defined contributions for employees to purchase their own coverage—renamed as CHOICE arrangements—and permits employees to pay premiums pre-tax.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/12/17/2025/bill-to-strengthen-national-defense-with-provisions-championed-by-senator-collins-to-be-signed-into-law,Bill to Strengthen National Defense with Provisions Championed by Senator Collins to be Signed into Law,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced that the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which authorizes $900.6 billion, has passed both chambers of Congress, with votes of 77 to 20 and 312 to 112 in the Senate and House of Representatives, respectively. The FY26 NDAA now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. This annual defense bill authorizes spending levels and sets policy for the military and critical national defense priorities, while the defense appropriations bill, which is under the jurisdiction of the Senate Appropriations Committee, appropriates the funding for the Department of Defense (DOD) each fiscal year. The Senate Appropriations Committee advanced the FY26 Defense funding bill in July by a vote of 26-3. “With this legislation heading to the President’s desk, Congress has fulfilled one of its most important Constitutional responsibilities—providing for our national defense,” said Senator Collins. “The NDAA addresses the many national security threats facing our nation today and better supports the brave men and women of our armed forces. Additionally, the bill authorizes funding that will support the hardworking Mainers of our state’s defense industrial base, who make invaluable contributions to our national defense.” Several provisions and amendments authored or co-authored by Senator Collins were included in the final bill that passed the Senate today: Berry Amendment-Compliant Footwear Report. Amendment filed by Senator Collins will require the Department of Defense to submit a report on the U.S. boot industrial base and a plan to achieve full Berry Amendment compliance for combat footwear. Public Shipyard Apprentice Program. Amendment filed by Senator Collins will strengthen the skilled trades pipeline at public shipyards like Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Counter Act. Cosponsored by Senator Collins, provisions from this bill will expand the Department of Defense’s authority to defend its facilities from illegal drone activity. The NDAA also includes several provisions Senator Collins strongly advocated for that will benefit Maine: Support for U.S. Troops. Authorizes a 3.8 percent pay raise for all service members—including the thousands of Maine men and women serving in uniform. Includes reforms to streamline and modernize defense procurement to ensure our military is better equipped and supplied. Directs a study on behavioral and mental health staffing shortfalls at military medical treatment facilities to improve access to care for service members and their families. Support for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. $227.8 million for power reliability and water resilience upgrades. $220.8 million for the Multi-Mission Drydock #1 extension. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-demands-coast-guard-immediately-abandon-reclassification-of-hate-symbols,Senator Collins Demands Coast Guard Immediately Abandon Reclassification of Hate Symbols,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem calling on the Coast Guard to immediately abandon a policy change that made certain displays, such as swastikas and nooses, no longer classified as hate symbols. After originally stating in a November 20 memo that such symbols would remain prohibited, recent reporting indicates that the Coast Guard has implemented a policy that downgrades these symbols from hate symbols to “potentially divisive.” “The U.S. Coast Guard’s decision to categorize swastikas and other Nazi symbols as merely ‘potentially divisive’ is an affront to the memory of the millions of Jews murdered during World War II and the Allied Forces who fought, and in many cases died, to liberate Europe from the Nazi regime,” Senator Collins wrote. “The symbols and images associated with Nazism are blatantly antisemitic and employed by criminals to express hatred toward Jewish individuals and racial minorities.” “Antisemitic attacks against the Jewish community have risen in this country and worldwide since the violent terrorist attack against Israel on October 7, 2023. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) reported that in the three months following the attack, antisemitic incidents in the U.S. skyrocketed by 361 percent,” she continued. “Prior to the October 7 attacks, hate crimes against the Jewish community were already on the rise. According to data from the Department of Justice (DOJ), in 2023, of 2,699 reported hate crime incidents based on religion, more than half of these (1,832) were driven by anti-Jewish bias.” “The U.S. Coast Guard should be adopting policies to assist with the quick and lawful removal of divisive symbols, and any ambiguity about the Coast Guard’s intent should be immediately rectified and reflected in its policy. The U.S. Coast Guard should be clear: the display of Nazi iconography, symbols of racial bigotry and intimidation, and any hate-motivated representations will not be tolerated,” Senator Collins concluded. The complete text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://loudermilk.house.gov/2025/12/17/rep-loudermilk-advances-three-key-pieces-of-legislation/,Rep. Loudermilk Advances Three Key Pieces of Legislation,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Barry Loudermilk,L000583,loudermilk.house.gov,loudermilk,https://loudermilk.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. (December 17, 2025) | – Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) issued the following statement after the House Committee on Financial Services passed three of his bills, The New BANK Act (H.R. 6551), the American FIRST Act (H.R. 6550), and the Respect State Housing Laws Act (H.R. 1078). “Continuing my longstanding commitment to Georgian’s freedom to choose between a broad array of financial institutions, and to have those institutions free from foreign influence, I introduced the New BANK Act and the American FIRST Act. These bills, which have just passed the House Committee on Financial Services, will help protect a competitive banking market that places Americans first. “During the Covid pandemic, Congress passed legislation that included a provision which overrides state eviction-notice laws. This federal regulation was supposed to provide a singular grace period during the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act eviction moratorium, which has since ended, but a drafting error caused the provision to remain in place permanently. This federal overreach has negatively affected Georgians, especially veterans, retirees, and families who depend on rental income to make ends meet. My Respect State Housing Laws Act, which has passed the House Committee on Financial Services, will remove the federal government from these proceedings and return housing policies back to the states, where they belong.” Background New BANK Act: – Strengthen accountability and improve clarity in how federal banking regulators operate by requiring annual reports on the bank charter application process. – Congress will be more equipped to detect inefficiency and favoritism in the banking sector, in the interest of providing the American borrower with a multitude of fair options across national banks, state banks, and credit unions. American FIRST Act: – Increase transparency, accountability, and congressional oversight of U.S. regulators’ involvement in global standard-setting bodies. – Require the annual reporting of interactions between federal banking supervisory agencies and global financial regulatory or supervisory forums. – This legislation is necessary, as recent international regulatory regimes have threatened the independence of the American banking sector.",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z https://loudermilk.house.gov/2025/12/17/rep-loudermilk-on-passage-of-lower-health-care-premiums-for-all-americans-act/,Rep. Loudermilk on Passage of Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Barry Loudermilk,L000583,loudermilk.house.gov,loudermilk,https://loudermilk.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. (June 23, 2026) | Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) issued the following statement following passage of... Friends, I hope you have had a great week! As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed... Washington, D.C. (June 9, 2026) | Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) issued the following statement following the U.S.... Friends, I hope you have had a great week! As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed... Friends, I hope you have had a great week! As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed... Washington D.C. (May 22, 2026) | Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) issued the following statement following the... Friends, I hope you are doing well. As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed of how... Friends, I hope you are doing well. As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed of how... Friends, I hope you are doing well. As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed of how... Friends, I hope you are doing well. As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed of how... Washington D.C. (April 30, 2026) | Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) issued the following statement following the...",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z https://loudermilk.house.gov/2025/12/17/rep-loudermilk-to-close-congressional-offices-on-friday-in-observance-of-former-staffers-funeral-service/,Rep. Loudermilk to Close Congressional Offices on Friday In Observance of Former Staffer’s Funeral Service,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Barry Loudermilk,L000583,loudermilk.house.gov,loudermilk,https://loudermilk.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. (December 17, 2025) | – Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) issued the following statement regarding office closure on Friday, December 19, 2025, to honor a former member of his staff, Mrs. Claire Bartlett, who passed away on Sunday, December 13. “My family and staff were extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Claire Bartlett. Claire was a true patriot, a dear friend, and a trusted member of my Congressional staff for several years. She was a pillar of the community, highly respected in the many organizations and areas in which she served. Claire will be greatly missed, but her legacy will continue to impact many across our great state. In observation of her funeral services, our Congressional offices will be closed Friday, December 19, 2025. May the peace of God be with Darrell and her entire family during this very difficult time.”",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-highlights-lyme-disease-efforts-kay-hagan-tick-act-at-roundtable,"Senator Collins Highlights Lyme Disease Efforts, Kay Hagan Tick Act at Roundtable",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click HERE and HERE for full-resolution images. Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of Senator Collins’ remarks at the event. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins participated in a roundtable discussion at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Lyme disease research and innovation. The roundtable included public health officials, researchers, and patient advocates who discussed current gaps in Lyme disease research, the need for improved diagnostics, and opportunities to strengthen collaboration across federal agencies. Dr. Kristen Honey of Long Island, Maine, a public health expert with firsthand experience of a Lyme disease diagnosis, also participated in the discussion. Senator Collins highlighted her longstanding efforts to address tick-borne diseases. Earlier this year, she introduced the Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act, which supports coordinated research, prevention, and education efforts across HHS and other agencies. Senator Collins discussed how resources from the original Kay Hagan Tick Act (KHTA), which was signed into law in 2019, have led to exciting developments such as the first-ever clinical trial for a Lyme disease vaccine for humans, which is underway at the MaineHealth Institute for Research. In addition to her work on the KHTA, Senator Collins has secured millions in funding for tick-borne disease research at the University of Maine Tick Lab. “Maine reached a new Lyme disease record last year with 3,218 reported cases. The projections are that this year's total will be even greater. I commend HHS for hosting this conversation,” said Senator Collins. “We need a comprehensive approach to finding next generation diagnostics and treatment for Lyme disease. As the author of the Kay Hagan Tick Act, which supports coordinated research, prevention, and education efforts across HHS and other agencies, I will continue to support and highlight this critical work, much of which is happening in the State of Maine.” As part of today’s event, HHS also announced the revival of the LymeX Innovation Accelerator (LymeX) with the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation. LymeX is the largest public-private partnership ever built to improve Lyme disease diagnostics and care. The $10 million initiative will advance artificial intelligence tools that support earlier and more accurate detection across stages of infection. Senator Collins advanced $5 million in federal funding for LymeX as part of the FY26 Senate Labor, Health and Human Services Bill. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-praises-addition-of-duchenne-muscular-dystrophy-to-hhs-list-of-recommended-newborn-screenings,Senator Collins Praises Addition of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy to HHS’ List of Recommended Newborn Screenings,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins today praised the decision from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to approve the addition of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP). The RUSP is a list of disorders that HHS recommends states screen for as part of their newborn screening programs. Early detection of DMD will allow children to receive FDA-approved therapies when they have the greatest chance of effectiveness in slowing the progression of the disease. This announcement follows a bipartisan letter that Senator Collins and a group of nine members of Congress sent last month to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., requesting that Duchenne muscular dystrophy be added to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel. “Most boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy are diagnosed at four or five years old, when meaningful muscle loss has already occurred, so this decision from HHS will allow families to get answers at birth and take advantage of approved therapies when they can make the greatest difference,” said Senator Collins. “Throughout my Senate service, supporting research for Duchenne muscular dystrophy has been one of my highest priorities, and I am pleased that this important step will help ensure children receive timely diagnoses and access to care that can slow the progression of this devastating disease.” “With Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) being added to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel, families of newborns identified with this condition will have early guidance for appropriate medical care, including the growing list of approved therapies. My family and I are grateful for Senator Collins’ influence in DMD being added to the RUSP as well as her consistent support of federal research funding that led to the development to new therapies to treat the condition,” said Brian Denger of Biddeford, Maine, whose son, Patrick, has DMD. As Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins has secured millions of dollars in yearly funding bills to advance Duchenne muscular dystrophy research. Specifically, she secured a funding increase of $500,000 for the CDC Muscular Dystrophy program in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies appropriations bill and $10 million for medical research dedicated to Duchenne muscular dystrophy in the FY 2024 Defense appropriations bill. Earlier this year, Senator Collins was honored by the Foundation to Eradicate Duchenne for her leadership in securing this research funding. Senator Collins received this recognition at the Foundation’s 25th annual “Dining Away Duchenne” event. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3377,Rep. Clyde Announces 2025 Congressional App Challenge Winners,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Andrew S. Clyde,C001116,clyde.house.gov,clyde,https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"GAINESVILLE, GA — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) announced the winners of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for Georgia’s Ninth District. This year’s competition featured six talented student submissions from across the District, each creating original software applications that reflect creativity, problem-solving, and a commitment to innovation. After a competitive evaluation process, the following winners were selected: First Place: Krish Tripathy’s “Pulmo Lens ” | Woodward Academy Second Place: Michael Wang’s “Ten8Link” | North Gwinnett High School Third Place: Linh Do’s “Ace AP STEM” | Fulton Science Academy “Congratulations to Krish on winning first place in this year’s Congressional App Challenge! His innovative design provides an effective way for patients and health care professionals to improve detection of pneumonia, showcasing how coding can address real-world challenges,” said Clyde. “I’d also like to congratulate Michael and Linh for their impressive skills and creativity, as well as to thank the team at Strategic Logix for serving as this year’s judges for the Ninth District.” First Place: Pulmo Lens by Krish Tripathy Krish Tripathy, a Sugar Hill resident and senior at Woodward Academy, was inspired to create Pulmo Lens when a family member was hospitalized for pneumonia after the infection had gone undetected. Pulmo Lens is a deep learning-based web application that helps health care professionals detect pneumonia from chest X-rays faster and more accurately. When a user uploads an image, the app processes it in seconds and displays both the original X-ray and a heatmap that highlights the areas most likely to contain pneumonia. “Pulmo Lens represents my vision of combining coding and compassion,” said Tripathy. “Pulmo Lens strives to help doctors act sooner, save more lives, and make early detection easier and reliable for everyone.” Tripathy’s app will be exhibited at the 2025 #HouseOfCode celebration in Washington, D.C., where students from across the country gather to share their work with Members of Congress, technology leaders, and industry professionals. Second Place: Ten8Link by Michael Wang Linh Do, a Buford resident and junior at Fulton Science Academy, designed Ace AP STEM to help high school students taking AP STEM courses. The platform not only helps students solve individual problems, but it also strengthens their conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and long-term mastery of AP STEM subjects. Background First launched in 2014, the Congressional App Challenge is the official computer science competition of the U.S. House of Representatives. The competition encourages students to create and submit their own app for the opportunity to receive national recognition. Students may participate as individuals or in teams of up to four. Congressional App Challenge winners will have their app featured on a display in the U.S. Capitol and put on the U.S. House of Representatives’ website. Additionally, winners will receive an invitation to the #HouseOfCode celebration on Capitol Hill.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/12/12/2025/senators-collins-king-celebrate-passage-of-wreaths-across-america-day-resolution,"Senators Collins, King Celebrate Passage of Wreaths Across America Day Resolution",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the Senate unanimously passed a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Collins and Angus King designating Saturday, December 13, 2025, as “Wreaths Across America Day.” The annual event honors our nation’s fallen heroes with commemorative Maine-made balsam wreaths laid by millions of volunteers across the globe, including by a convoy that travels from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. “This annual tradition unites so many Americans to honor our heroes by laying wreaths at locations across the country,” said Senators Collins and King. “We are proud to recognize this important day and the steadfast support of those who help honor the legacies of our servicemembers.” Wreaths Across America coordinates wreath-laying ceremonies at more than 4,200 locations across the United States and abroad. Each wreath is crafted in Maine. The general public can register to participate in Wreaths Across America at Arlington National Cemetery at 12:00 p.m. on December 13th here. The complete text of the resolution can be read here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-joins-call-for-correcting-exclusion-of-graduate-nursing-degrees-in-professional-degree-definition,Senator Collins Joins Call for Correcting Exclusion of Graduate Nursing Degrees in “Professional Degree” Definition,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins and bipartisan and bicameral group of more than 140 members of Congress sent a letter to Department of Education Under Secretary Nicholas Kent, calling on the Department to correct the previous exclusion of post-baccalaureate nursing degrees from the regulatory definition of “professional degree.” The lawmakers’ letter follows a recently proposed framework from the Education Department’s Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Committee that omits post-baccalaureate nursing degrees from the regulatory definition of “professional degree,” meaning they would be classified as a “graduate degree.” If this framework is adopted during the upcoming rulemaking, the proposed definition would not meet the need for post-baccalaureate nursing students, as student loans are currently capped for new borrowers at $20,500 annually and $100,000 in the aggregate for “graduate” programs and $50,000 annually and $200,000 in the aggregate for “professional” programs. “The RISE Committee’s proposed definition will make it more difficult for nurses to join the health care workforce because post-baccalaureate nursing degrees are excluded from the list of health care degrees in the definition of a ‘professional degree,’” the lawmakers wrote. “This list includes Pharmacy (PharmD), Dentistry (DDS or DMD), Medicine (MD), and Clinical Psychology (PsyD or PhD), but it omits post-baccalaureate nursing degrees such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and a PhD in nursing.” “However, the proposed definition describes a professional degree as a degree that ‘signifies both completion of the academic requirements for beginning practice in a given profession and a level of professional skill beyond that normally required for a bachelor’s degree.’ The definition also states that a professional degree ‘generally requires professional licensure to begin practice,’” they continued. “Post-baccalaureate nursing degrees satisfy these criteria, as all registered nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination to enter the profession. Similarly, all Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) must have a graduate degree, such as an MSN or a DNP, and require national certification and state licensure to practice.” “At a time when our nation is facing a health care shortage, especially in primary care, now is not the time to cut off the student pipeline to these programs. According to the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC), fifty-seven percent of Medicare beneficiaries received a primary care service from an NP or physician associate (PA), and sixty-six percent of rural Medicare patients received a primary care service from an NP or PA. Consequently, we believe that post-baccalaureate nursing degrees should be included in the department’s definition of a ‘professional degree,’” the lawmakers concluded. The complete text of the letter is available here. In June, Senators Collins, Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) introduced the Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act, a bipartisan bill that would help strengthen the nursing workforce by reauthorizing critical programs that support nursing education, expand access to clinical training, and help schools prepare more students for careers in nursing. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-statement-on-the-three-year-anniversary-of-the-respect-for-marriage-act-becoming-law,Senator Collins’ Statement on the Three-Year Anniversary of the Respect for Marriage Act Becoming Law,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of Senator Collins’ remarks on the Senate floor prior to the passage of the Respect for Marriage Act in 2022. WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement prior to the three-year anniversary of the Respect for Marriage Act—a bill she co-authored with Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI)—being signed into law, codifying same-sex and interracial marriage in federal law: “Three years ago, the Respect for Marriage Act, which I proudly co-authored with Senator Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin, was signed into law. This historic, bipartisan legislation enshrined in federal law that same-sex and interracial marriages must be recognized, providing certainty for couples across the country that they will continue to enjoy the freedoms, rights, and responsibilities afforded to all other marriages, regardless of future court decisions. “The law also maintained—and indeed strengthened—important religious liberty and conscience protections. By pairing these protections with clear federal recognition of same-sex marriage, the Respect for Marriage Act struck a careful balance that reflects both equality under the law and respect for religious freedom.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/nomination-of-judge-andrew-benson-to-serve-as-us-attorney-for-the-district-of-maine-advances-out-of-committee,Nomination of Judge Andrew Benson to Serve as U.S. Attorney for the District of Maine Advances Out of Committee,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced today that the Senate Judiciary Committee has advanced the nomination of Andrew Benson, an experienced Maine District Court Judge and former homicide prosecutor, to serve as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Maine by a bipartisan vote of 19 to 3. His nomination now moves to the Senate floor for consideration by the full body. “I am pleased that the Judiciary Committee has advanced the nomination of Judge Andrew Benson, who has devoted more than three decades to public service in Maine. His many years of experience as a senior homicide prosecutor and his long tenure on the Maine District Court give me great confidence that he will serve our state well as U.S. Attorney,” said Senator Collins. “At a time when Maine is confronting serious challenges, including illegal Chinese marijuana grow houses and increasing drug trafficking from out-of-state gang members, it is especially important that we promptly fill this seat with a highly qualified nominee who is prepared to address these threats.” A native of Bethel and current resident of Unity, Judge Andrew Benson served as a Judge on the Maine District Court from 2014-2025. Prior to his appointment to the bench, Judge Benson was a senior homicide prosecutor for the Office of the Maine Attorney General from 1999-2014. On October 22, 2025, Judge Benson was appointed to serve as interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Maine, pending confirmation of his nomination by the Senate. Judge Benson received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine and his J.D. from the University of Maine School of Law. As the senior Republican member of Maine’s congressional delegation, Senator Collins is advising the Trump Administration as it evaluates candidates for federal positions in the state. As part of that process, Senator Collins established a Federal Appointments Advisory Committee comprised of community leaders and experienced attorneys from across the state. Judge Benson was one of the applicants the Committee assessed for Senate-confirmed vacancies in Maine. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-statement-on-votes-on-alternatives-to-address-expiration-of-aca-enhanced-premium-tax-credits,Senator Collins’ Statement on Votes on Alternatives to Address Expiration of ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement after voting to proceed to consideration of both the Democratic- and Republican-sponsored health care proposals: “For months, I have said I support extending the enhanced premium tax credits. Families in Maine and across the country are struggling with the high cost of health insurance, and I want to prevent an unaffordable spike in health insurance premiums for many Americans who rely on these COVID-era subsidies. “I voted to proceed to both bills, but neither is the perfect solution to this problem. Therefore, I filed amendments to both bills with changes that would protect the vulnerable Americans who are receiving these enhanced premium tax credits, protect the taxpayer, and reform this system to protect against fraud. “These taxpayer-funded credits must be reformed to ensure they are going to the low- and middle-income families and individuals who need them. It is not fair for the average taxpayer to subsidize the insurance premiums of individuals who are making hundreds of thousands of dollars. The pre-COVID law did not have this flaw. I filed an amendment to protect low- and middle- income families with a phaseout at $100,000 for single enrollees and $200,000 for couples and families. “In addition to voting for a clean extension of these enhanced premium tax credits, I also voted for the alternative health care proposal filed by Chairmans Crapo and Cassidy. While their bill is not the solution to the problem at hand, it contains many important provisions that ought to be considered in a longer-term reform. “My votes today reflect my understanding that two things can be true at once: the Affordable Care Act has proven itself to be unaffordable; it is a broken system that must be fixed—and it cannot be fixed overnight. The families that rely on it now, however, cannot be left facing huge premium increases with inadequate assistance.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-baldwin-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-support-organic-farmers-and-producers,"Senators Collins, Baldwin Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Organic Farmers and Producers",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) introduced legislation to give organic producers tools to increase capacity, modernize their operations, and expand their businesses to meet growing demand. The bipartisan Domestic Organic Investment Act would make a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) program permanent that helps solve supply chain gaps for the organic market by providing grants to farmers and businesses. While certified organic sales have grown to over $71.4 billion in 2024, domestic organic acreage has not kept pace with demand for organic products. U.S. Representatives Derrick Van Orden (R-WI-03) and Andrea Salinas (D-OR-06) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. “Maine’s organic agriculture industry continues to grow at a rapid pace with the support of federal investments and strong market demand. However, many organic producers still face challenges in expanding their operations and accessing new markets,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan legislation would make permanent the USDA’s Organic Market Development Grant program and help organic food producers in Maine and across the country modernize their operations, expand their capacity, and better compete in today’s global marketplace.” “Wisconsin is America’s Dairyland, and to keep that legacy, we need to support our farmers and make sure they can meet the demands of families. With the demand for organic foods continuing to skyrocket, we need to make sure that any farmer who wants to grow their business, has the tools and resources to do it,” said Senator Baldwin. “I’m working with Democrats and Republicans so more organic farmers can expand their operations, support good paying jobs, and continue to be the beating heart of our rural communities.” The Domestic Organic Investment Act would codify the USDA’s Organic Market Development Grant program administered by the Agricultural Marketing Service. The development program will: increase the capacity of the domestic organic product supply chain for producers, handlers, suppliers, and processors of certified organic products; modernize manufacturing, tracking, storage, and information technology systems; improve the capacity of eligible entities to comply with applicable regulatory requirements or quality standards required to access markets; expand capacity for processing, aggregation, and distribution of certified organic products to create more and better markets for producers of certified organic products; facilitate market development for domestically produced certified organic products; conduct feasibility studies and market viability assessments to inform organic transition strategies and opportunities; address barriers to entry to organic product certification for historically underserved entities; and support market and promotional activities that help build commercial markets for certified organic products in the United States. The Domestic Organic Investment Act is endorsed by Organic Valley, the Organic Trade Association, and the International Fresh Produce Association. “We are deeply grateful to the sponsoring lawmakers for introducing this important and timely DOIA legislation,” said Matthew Dillon, Co-CEO of Organic Trade Association. “These infrastructure investments will remove long-standing barriers to give organic producers and manufacturers the capacity and resources they need to meet the rapidly growing consumer demand for the benefits of organic.” “The U.S. organic marketplace is poised for significant growth, but right-sized processing and distribution capacity remains a notable challenge. Over the past year, we’ve seen disruptions in our co-manufacturing network and the loss of fluid dairy processing, underscoring the need for strategic investments. This infrastructure bill is a step toward leveraging more processing capacity, ensuring more organic food reach American families, and delivering greater opportunities for U.S. farmers. The leadership provided by Senators Tammy Baldwin and Susan Collins as well as Representative Derrick Van Orden and Andrea Salinas are greatly appreciated – it is encouraging to see both bipartisan and bicameral support for organic agriculture in America,” said Shawna Nelson, Organic Valley, CEO. “Among our membership, IFPA has numerous organic fruit and vegetable producers across the nation and the bipartisan legislation brought by Reps. Salinas and Van Orden provides exactly the kind of strategic investment the fresh produce industry needs to strengthen our supply chain. The Domestic Organic Investment Act invests in modern infrastructure, reduces long-standing supply chain bottlenecks, and most importantly, ensures that U.S. producers can meet rising consumer demand while keeping more economic opportunity in our rural communities. We’re proud to champion legislation that supports growers, expands markets, and builds a stronger, more resilient organic supply chain for the future. We are grateful to Senator Baldwin and Collins for their commitment to advancing this bill,” said Cathy Burns, International Fresh Produce Association, CEO. The complete text of the bill is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://collins.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-representatives-passes-rep-collins-permitting-reform-package,House of Representatives Passes Rep. Collins' Permitting Reform Package,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,collins.house.gov,mikecollins,https://collins.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the United States House of Representatives passed Rep. Collins' (R-GA) H.R. 3898, the PERMIT Act, to cut red tape, streamline review processes, and make permitting under the Clean Water Act (CWA) more efficient and transparent. This bill will have an immediate impact on energy producers, the agriculture industry, home and road builders, water utilities, and everyday Americans regulated under the CWA by allowing critical infrastructure projects to be built more quickly and efficiently. These reforms are designed to reduce burdensome regulatory requirements, protect against frivolous lawsuits, and increase transparency, while ensuring clean water protections. Rep. Collins released the following statement after the bill's passage: “As we enter a new era with a renewed focus on domestic energy production and growth, this legislation delivers the tools that our country needs to build faster, smarter, and safer,” said Subcommittee Chairman Collins. “When I was appointed as Chairman of the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee, I put myself on a mission to make our government more efficient and productive for the American people. I am proud to say that we are doing just that with the PERMIT Act.” The legislation is supported by over 100 national manufacturing, small business, agricultural, and energy groups, as well as the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Farm Bureau, Georgia Ports Authority, Oglethorpe Power, Georgia Power, Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia, Jackson Electric Membership Corporation, and the Georgia Forestry Association. Georgia Farm Bureau: ""We are proud to support the PERMIT Act (HR 3898). This bill ends EPA overreach, cuts red tape and keeping family farms competitive with less regulated competitors. HR 3898 aligns with Sackett, ends unnecessary permits on ditches & prior converted cropland, and saves Georgia farmers millions in compliance costs. We urge swift passage to protect family farms."" Oglethorpe Power: ""During this time of unprecedented growth and planning, it is imperative that federal permitting programs, including those under the CWA, are implemented as intended by Congress and do not unnecessarily delay or hinder critical energy projects, or burden the homes, businesses and farms our member EMCs serve with unreasonable costs."" Jackson Electric Membership Corporation: ""The PERMIT Act would reduce overly burdensome regulatory requirements, protect against frivolous lawsuits, and increase certainty, transparency and efficiency in the CWA permitting process while maintaining important environmental protections."" Background The PERMIT Act: Cuts the red tape that drives up utility and service costs, letting communities build faster and keep prices down. Helps speed up building approvals that hold housing hostage, lowering construction costs, and getting homes built sooner. Moves to end permitting gridlock that stalls road and bridge projects, saving money and delivering safer, faster travel. Provides needed clarity and certainty to assist with dredging and construction to facilitate ports moving goods cheaply and efficiently, strengthening supply chains and lowering costs. Clears out delays that block upgrades to failing water systems, protecting communities, and keeping clean water reliable. Solidifies long-standing Clean Water Act practices, providing predictability and consistency to farmers and protection from frivolous lawsuits. This is the third bill that Rep. Collins has passed through the House of Representatives in his two terms in Congress, with the previous being the Laken Riley Act to deport illegal criminal aliens and the TRANQ Act to remove deadly synthetic drugs from our streets, which were both signed into law. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FA876ABE-1324-4722-942F-64247429D683,Rep. Austin Scott on Final House Passage of FY26 NDAA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.-- U.S. Representative Austin Scott (GA-08), a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), released the below statement regarding S. 1071, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 312-112 with his support, sending it to the floor of the U.S. Senate, enroute to the President's desk for his signature. The NDAA sets Department of Defense (DoD) policies and authorizes funding levels for defense programs. ""The entire state of Georgia plays a key role in implementing President Donald Trump’s strategy of Peace Through Strength,""Rep. Scott said. ""The FY26 NDAA strengthens the U.S. military, provides a pay raise to our service members, saves taxpayer dollars, and enhances the quality of life for our warfighters and their families. I am proud of my work on this important piece of legislation to support our armed forces in their mission of defending the United States."" Rep. Scott authored (13) different initiatives that will now become law following Senate passage and the President's signature: Extended the authority for an additional three years that would allow for retired members of the Armed Forces to be appointed to competitive or excepted service positions in the Department of Defense without a waiver. This will allow more retired military personnel to continue to serve our country as civilians at Robins Air Force Base. Extended the authority for depot working capital funds, like Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex (WR-ALC), to be used for unspecified minor military construction from September 30, 2025 to September 30, 2027. This will enable WR-ALC to continue to modernize their facilities. Delayed the full retirement of the A-10C “Warthog” aircraft, several dozen of which are based at Moody Air Force Base in Valdosta, GA. The Scott amendment requires the Air Force to maintain a minimum of 93 A-10 aircraft in FY 26. The A-10C provides close air support and combat search-and-rescue capabilities unmatched by any other aircraft in the Air Force’s inventory. Extended the intergovernmental support agreements (IGSA) pilot program until September 30, 2030.Moody AFB has benefitted greatly from partnership tools, particularly the IGSA. The agreements provide additional flexibility in some areas for the base and keeps funds local. Moreover, Moody enjoys tremendous support from the Lowndes County community and government to include three IGSAs signed between Moody and Lowndes County. Established a pilot program to provide service personnel with a voluntary option to enroll in a low-premium supplemental insurance plan to help protect against uncovered out-of-pocket expenses resulting from a cancer diagnosis in the family. Modified and extended annual reporting on military and security developments involving the Russian Federation to include Russia's strategic goals, force posture, and military spending. Authorized the Baltic Security Initiative to strengthen the armed forces of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania to deter Russian aggression, increase interoperability, and support modernization; Directed the Secretary of Defense to develop and implement a strategy by January 1, 2030, to eliminate the acquisition of computer displays by the Department of Defense from nations such as Russia or China; Established the United States Navy, Air Force, and Space Force Museum systems; Enhanced congressional oversight of the U.S. Africa Command to prohibit the use of funds to modify or combine the responsibilities or lower the rank of the Commander of any geographic combatant commanduntil the Secretary of Defense submits a report to the congressional defense committees.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16038,Carter introduces bill awarding Congressional Gold Medal to the fallen patriots of Thiokol,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today introduced the Thiokol Memorial Gold Medal Act, a bill awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to the Thiokol Memorial Museum in honor of the 30 fallen patriots of Thiokol. On February 3, 1971, the Thiokol plant in Woodbine, Georgia, which manufactured trip flares during the Vietnam War, suffered a catastrophic explosion killing 29 people and injuring 50 others, many of whom were African American women. In a separate tragedy in May 1973, another worker who served two tours in Vietnam died in a mortar shell explosion at the same facility. “These 30 men and women were unsung heroes of the Vietnam War, dying in service to their country. The tragedy at Thiokol claimed too many innocent lives too soon, and it is our responsibility to keep their memories alive. By awarding the fallen a Congressional Gold Medal, we are honoring their legacy, thanking them for their patriotic service, and remembering those who gave their lives in defense of our freedoms,” said Rep. Carter. “I extend my sincere appreciation to Congressman Carter for his support in advancing this legislation. Honoring the sacrifices of these patriots ensures that the voices of the fallen, their families, and our community are recognized at the highest levels,” said Jannie Everette, CEO/President of the Thiokol Memorial Project. Original co-sponsors of this bill include: Reps. Rich McCormick (R-GA), Sanford Bishop (D-GA), and Lucy McBath (D-GA). The fallen patriots of Thiokol are: Celia A. Alberta — Woodbine, GA Ethel L. Banks — Woodbine, GA Annie C. Booth — Kingsland, GA Gloria W. Booth — Kingsland, GA Bertha Walker Brunswick — Woodbine, GA Bettie Dawson Burch — Kingsland, GA Charles Burch — Kingsland, GA James L. Chapman — Marshall, TX Yvonne Marie Connelly — Kingsland, GA Jack Cox — Longview, TX Mae Hazel Davis — St. Marys, GA Mildred Davis — Blackshear, GA Howard Ellis, Sr. — Woodbine, GA Willie Mae Austell-Fuller — Kingsland, GA Pearlie Mae Young-Hutchinson — White Oak, GA Annie Mae Hutchinson-James — Woodbine, GA Mack Kennedy — White Oak, GA Essie Diana Green-King — Kingsland, GA Gracie Mae Small-Life — White Oak, GA Bertha Mae Hill — Woodbine, GA Charles T. Monak — Montgomery, AL James Parland — Woodbine, GA Sandra Regina Rauls — Kingsland, GA Cyrus Emory Roberson — Nahunta, GA Betty Jean Roberts — Yulee, FL Lillie Bell Spells — St. Marys, GA Cheryl N. Sullivan — Woodbine, GA Mae Alice Taylor — Yulee, FL Annie Loise Williams — St. Marys, GA Joseph Eugene Wainwright — White Oak, GA Read the full bill text here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16040,Carter brings home more than $320 million for GA-01 in NDAA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today supported the House-passed National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included more than $320 million in funding for military projects and installations in Georgia’s First Congressional District. The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration. “Coastal Georgia is a strong military community, and it’s important that we have the world-class resources that our world-class troops deserve. I’m proud to have advocated for and supported this funding, which will cement our district’s leadership in President Trump’s peace through strength agenda,” said Rep. Carter. The funding includes: $105 million for Fort Stewart Barracks (extended) $22 million for Fort Stewart 10-megawatt plant (extended) $25.4 million for joint power generation and grid funding at Hunter Army Airfield and Fort Stewart (extended) $119 million for Trident refit facility expansion project at Kings Bay $11.2 million for Kings Bay Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition modernization (extended) $3.8 million for Air Guard Savannah Combat Readiness Troop Camp Design $11.4 million for Savannah Hilton Head International Airport’s corrosion control facility $27 million for Savannah Hilton Head International Airport’s Dining Hall and Services Train Facility ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/12/10/2025/senators-collins-and-king-announce-maine-nominees-to-the-united-states-military-service-academies,Senators Collins and King Announce Maine Nominees to the United States Military Service Academies,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced their nominees to the United States Military Academies. To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, applicants must be nominated by an authorized nominating source, which includes Members of Congress. Admission to the United States Coast Guard Academy, also a federal service academy, does not require a congressional nomination. “We are proud to have the honor to nominate such an impressive group of Maine students to our nation’s distinguished service academies,” said Senators Collins and King. “The young people we have nominated have earned this honor through a commitment to strong scholarship, leadership, and character.” The following students from Maine have received nominations as candidates to the service academies from Senators Collins and King: Unites States Military Academy - West Point Name Hometown High School Jacob Biberstein Orrington Bangor High School Alexis Blue Bangor Bangor High School Theodore Bluhm Belfast Belfast Area High School Peter Bonaparte Monticello Houlton Middle High School Andrew Carroll Raymond Solebury School Greyson Creamer Durham Freeport High School Elaina Gagnon Lebanon Noble High School Zachary Lattanzi Yarmouth Yarmouth High School Anika Manning Saco Thornton Academy Cooper Manser Berwick Noble High School Thomas McLellan Eliot Marshwood High School Jaden Mizera Palermo Erskine Academy Isaiah Morgan Cumberland Center Greely High School Harlow O’Leary Saco Thornton Academy Ashton O’Roak Hampden Hampden Academy Samuel Poulin Scarborough Cheverus High School Joshua Pratt Rockland Oceanside High School Jasper Wills Bethel Gould Academy United States Naval Academy – Annapolis Name Hometown High School Jacob Biberstein Orrington Bangor High School Ian Britt Topsham Mt. Ararat High School Alberto Cutone Kennebunk Maine Connections Academy Elaina Gagnon Lebanon Noble High School Elliot Irving Bangor John Bapst Memorial High School Cooper Manser Berwick Noble High School Thomas McLellan Eliot Marshwood High School Jaden Mizera Palermo Erskine Academy Isaiah Morgan Cumberland Center Greely High School Thomas Ocampo Scarborough Scarborough High School Harlow O’Leary Saco Thornton Academy Ashton O’Roak Hampden Hampden Academy Samuel Poulin Scarborough Cheverus High School Joshua Pratt Rockland Oceanside High School Reed Proscia Freeport Freeport High School Otto Schoenthal Southport Lincoln Academy Aiden Surran Hampden Hampden Academy Cole Tomuschat Scarborough Scarborough High School Jasper Wills Bethel Gould Academy United States Air Force Academy – Colorado Springs Name Hometown High School Derek Barbie Yarmouth Carrabassett Valley Academy Jacob Biberstein Orrington Bangor High School Ian Britt Topsham Mt. Ararat High School Kayden Daviault Cape Elizabeth Cape Elizabeth High School Patrick Delaney Gorham Gorham High School Elaina Gagnon Lebanon Noble High School Elliot Irving Bangor John Bapst Memorial High School Cooper Manser Berwick Noble High School Aiden McKenna Skowhegan Skowhegan High School Thomas McLellan Eliot Marshwood High School Leonardo Mlynski Hampden Hampden Academy Isaiah Morgan Cumberland Center Greely High School Cooper Neely Old Town Old Town High School Harlow O’Leary Saco Thornton Academy Ashton O’Roak Hampden Hampden Academy Samuel Poulin Scarborough Cheverus High School Joshua Pratt Rockland Oceanside High School Seth Starkey Lebanon Noble High School United States Merchant Marine Academy - Kings Point Name Hometown High School Jacob Biberstein Orrington Bangor High School Kaitlyn Dostie Hope Camden Hills Regional High School Elliot Irving Bangor John Bapst Memorial High School Isaiah Morgan Cumberland Center Greely High School Harlow O’Leary Saco Thornton Academy Ashton O’Roak Hampden Hampden Academy Wallace Pooler South China The Hill School Samuel Poulin Scarborough Cheverus High School Jasper Wills Bethel Gould Academy ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-questions-retirement-policy-experts-on-family-caregiving,Senator Collins Questions Retirement Policy Experts on Family Caregiving,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click HERE for a full-resolution image. Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of Senator Collins’ questioning. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, at a Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee Hearing, U.S. Senator Susan Collins questioned retirement policy and financial planning experts on the challenges facing family caregivers and highlighted two bipartisan bills she plans to reintroduce to strengthen caregivers’ retirement security. Senator Collins emphasized that millions of caregivers provide essential, uncompensated care to parents, spouses, and children, often at a significant personal financial sacrifice. When caregivers leave their jobs, they lose not only wages, but also time contributing to Social Security and retirement savings, which can have long-term consequences on their ability to comfortably retire. Senator Collins highlighted the Improving Retirement Security for Family Caregivers Act and the Catching Up Family Caregivers Act, two bills she introduced with Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) last Congress that are designed to help individuals who leave the workforce to care for a loved one better prepare for retirement. The former would allow caregivers to contribute to a Roth IRA even if they have no earned income, while the latter would permit additional catch-up retirement contributions to make up for years spent out of the workforce. Last month, Senator Collins was awarded the Care In Action Congressional Award from the National Alliance for Caregiving at the organization’s Caregiver Nation Summit in Washington. Senator Collins received the award in recognition of her work on the Lifespan Respite Act and her longstanding support for our nation’s caregivers. A transcript of Senator Collins’ questioning is as follows: Senator Collins: Mr. Williams, you mentioned in your testimony legislation that I've introduced in the last Congress and hope to be reintroducing soon with Senator Warner, called the Improving Retirement Security for Family Caregivers Act and the Catching Up Family Caregivers Act. The first of the two bills would allow caregivers to save for retirement in a Roth IRA, even if they are not working for pay, since most caregivers are uncompensated. The second would allow caregivers to make additional retirement catch-up contributions to compensate for those years that they couldn't contribute due to leaving their jobs to take care of a loved one. Family caregivers play such an essential role, as you know, and when a loved one is no longer to care for him or herself, it often falls on an adult child to step in and take care of a parent or a disabled spouse or sometimes a child. Oftentimes, they do so because they simply can't find professional help to come into the home, or it's too expensive, or they aren't comfortable with an outsider taking care of their loved one, or the loved one may resist that, and they really don't want to place a beloved parent or spouse in a long-term care facility, which also is extremely expensive, unless it is covered under Medicaid. So, not only do many of these uncompensated caregivers have to leave the workforce, but they also are foregoing their contributions to Social Security, to their IRA, to their retirement plans, so they suffer economically when the time comes to retire. Could you comment further on this issue based on your own experience with serving your clients? And what do you think of the bills that we've introduced? Chad Williams, CFP – Financial Advisor, Edward Jones: Senator Collins, I see this everywhere I go—my clients, my family, friends, neighbors. It is a critical issue, and one that I personally am incredibly passionate about. In my practice, there is not a single financial plan that we draft that doesn't have some sort of caregiving component or long-term care to it. And caregiving is a profound act of love, but it often comes at a high personal cost. It is the intersection between financial security and health security. And at our firm, we partnered with Age Wave in 2025 and found that 92% of caregivers expressed concerns about their own retirement—it is a prevailing issue. Your bills would provide much-needed security, retirement security tools, for caregivers to make up not being in the workforce, so that they can contribute more when they're able to. As a financial planning practitioner, I want tools, like what your bills have, to be able to offer to support clients of this deserving community. And for caregivers in my practice that have little to no earned income, it would allow them to be able to defer in tax-advantaged accounts, and they wouldn't have otherwise been able to. So, we welcome bipartisan efforts and discussions to advance legislation that provides tools for this important community. Senator Collins: Thank you so much. I think that's a really overlooked but growing segment of the population. And here, they're doing the right thing. They're taking care of a beloved parent or spouse who is definitely housebound, and at times they simply cannot get the care other than from a relative. And yet, the relative who leaves the workforce to care for that beloved relative is penalized later in life because they've lost out on a year, or two, or maybe three, or more, when they would have been in the workforce. It's not that they don't want to be in the workforce. And believe me, I've seen it firsthand, caregiving is a 24-hour-a-day job. And yet, this is totally uncompensated. I only have 10 seconds left. Mr. Copland, I saw you nodding. If you could very quickly make whatever point you would like to make. James Copland – Senior Fellow, Manhattan Institute: Certainly. I also think your bills are good ideas. And I'm caring for an 85-year-old father. You know, we've had to do it both ways. He's in long term care now, but he wasn't until less than a year ago, and it's difficult. So, I applaud you for this effort. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-receives-award-for-excellence-in-hiv/aids-prevention,Senator Collins Receives Award for Excellence in HIV/AIDS Prevention,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click HERE and HERE for individual photos. Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of Senator Collins receiving the award. WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator Susan Collins was awarded the 2025 Award for Excellence in HIV/AIDS by the Global AIDS Policy Partnership and the Federal AIDS Policy Partnership. Senator Collins was recognized for her strong advocacy and leadership in protecting the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) program from proposed funding cuts earlier this year. “We have made significant progress in combating HIV/AIDS thanks to programs like PEPFAR, which has saved an estimated 26 million lives globally since 2003,” said Senator Collins. “I am proud to accept this award in recognition of my efforts to protect the PEPFAR program from proposed funding cuts, and I remain committed to strengthening this lifesaving program for years to come.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://loudermilk.house.gov/2025/12/10/rep-loudermilk-announces-2025-congressional-app-challenge-winners/,Rep. Loudermilk Announces 2025 Congressional App Challenge Winners,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Barry Loudermilk,L000583,loudermilk.house.gov,loudermilk,https://loudermilk.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. (December 10, 2025) | – Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) issued the following statement announcing the winners of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for Georgia’s 11th Congressional District. The competition is designed for students who aspire to learn computer coding and may have an interest in the STEM fields. Wheeler High School student, Aarav Balaji won first place with his CognifyAI App. “te ouAs medical science continues to advance rapidly, it is vital that the products of this innovation remain accessible to all who need them. The App Challenge winners in my district recognized this and used this Challenge to display creative ways to address this issue. Contests like this serve as an incredible way for students to use their critical thinking skills to address the challenges of today, and to present unique solutions through technology. The talent of the students in Georgia’s 11th Congressional District continues to inspire, and I am proud to know that there are exceptional young people pursuing their interests in the fields of technology. I appreciate all who participated in this challenge and congratulate our winners.” The Congressional App Challenge is a nonpartisan Initiative that encourages students’ interest in computer science, coding, or careers in STEM fields. Established in 2013 as a result of the Academic Competition Resolution passed by Congress, it has increased Congressional dialogue on the subjects of computer science and coding by about two thousand percent. Students can compete individually or in groups of up to four, and are tasked with designing an application (app) of their choosing. Each winning app is featured in the U.S. Capitol, and on the House of Representatives official website (House.gov), which has ten million visitors per year. 11th Congressional District – 2025 Congressional App Challenge Winners 1st Place Aarav Balaji App: CognifyAI School: Wheeler High School 2nd Place Aaditya Kulkarni App: KnowYourMeds School: Walton High School 3rd Place Vidya Sinah App: TrueHue School: Wheeler High School App Backgrounds CognigyAI Addresses the challenge of early-identification of cognitive decline by integrating structured cognitive assessments and machine-learning concepts. KnowYourMeds Assists with medication safety and comprehension by interpreting essential information on medication.",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16036,Carter defends Christians against corrupt Ethiopian government in new resolution,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today introduced a resolution condemning the Ethiopian government for its many human rights violations, including the persecution of Christians, and urging the Secretary of State to use all available diplomatic tools to protect innocent civilians against their abusive, corrupt government. The resolution condemns Ethiopia for “actions that threaten regional stability, violate fundamental human rights, and undermine the strategic interests of the United States in the Horn of Africa,” citing “acts of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide,” and the targeting by “violence, intimidation, and persecution” of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and other religious institutions. “Practicing your Christian faith is not a crime. Terrorists are running Ethiopia into the ground, and with it the lives of countless innocent people, particularly religious minorities. From intimidation to famine and genocide, the Ethiopian government has given the United States no option but to limit their power by using every tool available to hold them accountable for these, and many other, abuses,” said Rep. Carter. The resolution has support from the Amhara Association in Georgia and the American Ethiopian Public Affairs Committee. “For the past five years, as documented by human rights organizations, the Ethiopian Human Rights Council, multiple international media outlets, the United Nations, and the U.S. Department of State’s 2025 human rights reports, countless innocent civilians—women, children, and the elderly among them—have endured brutal acts of violence, including rape used as a weapon of war, arbitrary detention, torture, and mass displacement. Churches have been burned, religious leaders assassinated, and entire villages destroyed when the community rejected itsethnically driven ideology,” said the Amhara Association in Georgia. “[Rep. Carter’s] resolution to invoke all appropriate internationally available tools, including the Global Magnitsky Act, is both timely and essential. Holding perpetrators accountable through targeted sanctions—such as travel bans, asset freezes, and diplomatic isolation—will send a powerful message that the United States will not tolerate crimes against humanity, sexual violence, or religious persecution committed with impunity.” “The American Ethiopian Public Affairs Committee (AEPAC) strongly supports Congressman Earl L. “Buddy” Carter’s resolution calling for targeted sanctions against Ethiopian officials responsible for widespread atrocities, sexual violence, and religious persecution. The measure—anchored in the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act—responds to mounting evidence, including recent BBC and U.S. State Department findings, documenting mass rapes, extrajudicial killings, and attacks on places of worship across Ethiopia’s Amhara region. AEPAC commends Congressman Carter’s moral clarity and leadership in standing with the Ethiopian people and urges swift bipartisan action to ensure that perpetrators of these crimes face justice and that the United States continues to champion human rights, religious freedom, and accountability in Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa,” said the American Ethiopian Public Affairs Committee. Read the full bill text here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-king-announce-more-than-65-million-for-economic-development-projects-across-maine,"Senators Collins, King Announce More Than $6.5 Million for Economic Development Projects Across Maine",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins—Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee—and Angus King announced that 10 Maine organizations will receive a total of $6,541,337 to support important development projects. The funding comes from the Northern Border Regional Commission’s (NBRC) Fiscal Year 2025 Catalyst Program, made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Job Act (IIJA). Senator Collins was one of 10 senators who negotiated the IIJA. “The NBRC has long helped provide rural regions with the economic tools they need to prosper,” said Senators Collins and King. “This funding will help improve critical infrastructure in communities across our state while strengthening our workforce and creating economic opportunities for Mainers.” Specifically, the funding is allocated as follows: Bangor YMCA - $1,000,000 Caribou Utilities District - $1,000,000 Monmouth Water Association - $1,000,000 Outdoor Sports Institute - $1,000,000 Town of Jonesport - $799,615 Friends of Veterans Memorial Library - $606,691 Maine Development Foundation - $500,000 Center for Entrepreneurial Studies - $499,869 Eastern Maine Healthcare Systems - $100,000 Hancock County Planning Commission - $35,162 A detailed description of all funded projects can be read here. The NBRC was established by Congress in 2008, with Senator Collins’ and King’s support, to fund a broad range of development projects in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York aimed at alleviating economic distress and encouraging private sector job creation. In 2023, Senator Collins introduced and Senator King co-sponsored legislation to reauthorize and strengthen the NBRC. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-urges-commerce-department-to-provide-tariff-relief-for-maines-wild-blueberry-producers,Senator Collins Urges Commerce Department to Provide Tariff Relief for Maine’s Wild Blueberry Producers,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins wrote to Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer requesting that the Commerce Department provide targeted relief from the tariff imposed on steel and aluminum for the wild blueberry industry in Maine. In her letter, she highlighted how wild blueberry producers in Maine have already seen more than $28 million in losses this year due to severe drought conditions, putting this iconic Maine industry at risk. She also highlighted that the ramifications of tariffs have not been exclusive to Maine’s wild blueberry industry and have reverberated across Maine’s agricultural economy. “The wild blueberry industry is vital to Maine’s economy, contributing $361 million annually. Last year, Maine produced approximately 85 million pounds of wild blueberries, representing nearly 100 percent of all wild blueberries and 10 percent of all blueberries grown in the United States,” Senator Collins wrote. “Wild blueberries are an antioxidant rich superfood widely lauded for their health benefits, and Maine is the only U.S. producer of this important wild fruit.” “Unfortunately, the 50 percent tariff on steel and aluminum has significantly increased the cost of the equipment used to harvest the wild blueberry crop in Maine. This specialized equipment, which harvests approximately 90 percent of Maine’s wild blueberry crop, is only available in Canada,” she continued. “[…] Without access to affordable parts, and with no U.S.-based manufacturer that produces specialized wild blueberry equipment, Maine’s wild blueberry producers will see significant increases to their costs.” “As the Administration continues to work on trade negotiations with Canada, I request that you exempt wild blueberry harvesting, processing, and mowing equipment from the tariff imposed on steel and aluminum from Canada. I understand the Administration terminated the exclusion process for steel and aluminum earlier this year – a decision I encouraged the Administration to reverse in an earlier letter. Nevertheless, it is critical that Maine’s wild blueberry industry receive targeted relief,” Senator Collins concluded. The complete text of the letter can be read here. Last month, Senator Collins wrote to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins urging the Department to provide disaster assistance to Maine’s specialty crop and livestock producers. In her letter, Senator Collins highlighted the serious toll that extreme weather, high production costs, and labor shortages have taken on Maine’s wild blueberry, apple, and livestock producers. She called on the USDA to ensure that these producers are included in any federal relief efforts. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-moreno-unveil-legislation-to-extend-and-reform-enhanced-aca-premium-tax-credits,"Senators Collins, Moreno Unveil Legislation to Extend and Reform Enhanced ACA Premium Tax Credits",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins joined Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH) in introducing the Consumer Affordability and Responsibility Enhancement (CARE) Act to extend the enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits for two years, cap income eligibility for these subsidies, and eliminate zero-premium plans under the ACA. “Families in Maine and across the country are struggling with the high cost of health care, and we need to pursue practical solutions that increase affordability without creating sudden disruptions in coverage,” said Senator Collins. “This bill would help prevent unaffordable increases in health insurance premium costs for many families by extending the Affordable Care Act enhanced premium tax credits for two years and putting a reasonable income cap on these subsidies to ensure they are going to the individuals who need them.” The CARE Act, which is led by Senator Bernie Moreno, extends the enhanced ACA premium tax credits and gradually phases out the COVID-era enhancements over two years to prevent sudden coverage disruptions. The bill would also eliminate zero-premium plans by requiring a minimum monthly premium of $25 to promote the long-term sustainability of the program. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7032,Rep. Allen's Bill Preserving Consumer Choice for Household Appliances Advanced by Committee,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Rick W. Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,allen,https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Yesterday, the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, of which Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) is a proud member, advanced H.R. 4626, the Don't Mess With My Home Appliances Act. This legislation, introduced by Congressman Allen, implements necessary reforms to the Energy Policy Conservation Act (EPCA) to prevent future administrations from prioritizing a radical rush-to-green agenda over the affordability and availability of reliable household appliances that Americans rely on every day.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/12/04/2025/maine-delegation-introduces-bill-to-support-farmers-affected-by-pfas,Maine Delegation Introduces Bill to Support Farmers Affected by PFAS,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a bipartisan, bicameral effort to provide vital assistance to farmers affected by toxic “forever chemicals,” also known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), U.S. Senator Susan Collins and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree reintroduced the Relief for Farmers Hit with PFAS Act. The legislation would authorize grants for states to provide financial assistance to affected farmers, expand monitoring and testing, remediate PFAS, or even help farmers relocate. U.S. Senator Angus King and Congressman Jared Golden are original cosponsors of the legislation. PFAS are man-made chemicals that are used in industry and consumer products and can lead to serious health effects, including cancer, reproductive and developmental harms, and weakened immune systems. In Maine, there have been more than 30,000 records of PFAS at close to 250 sites across the state. Maine farmers have had their livelihoods disrupted due to PFAS contamination, which originated in sludge that was spread as fertilizer by farmers who were told by the government that it was safe to use. “USDA must provide support to our nation’s farmers, who through no fault of their own are at risk of losing their livelihoods,” said Senator Collins. “In the past, the federal government’s response has failed to keep pace with this growing problem. Our bipartisan legislation would direct USDA to help by providing financial assistance and expanding PFAS monitoring and testing where it is needed most.” “The PFAS crisis isn’t some theoretical or distant problem. It’s here, it’s growing, and it’s putting real pressure on farmers in Maine and across the country,” said Representative Pingree, a longtime farmer and senior member of the House Agriculture Committee. “For farmers already navigating thin margins, discovering ‘forever chemicals’ on their land can mean lost income, unusable land, and questions about the safety of their crops and livestock. They deserve federal support that matches the scale of the crisis. Our Relief for Farmers Hit with PFAS Act creates a dedicated USDA program to test for contamination, compensate affected farmers, and advance the research and remediation strategies we need to protect our food supply and rural economies. This bill is a critical step in giving farmers the tools to safeguard their operations while federal and state agencies work to fully confront PFAS.” “Maine’s hardworking farmers are losing crops, land, and their livelihoods to ‘forever chemicals’ at an alarming rate,”said Senator King. “The Relief for Farmers Hit with PFAS Act is a crucial step towards creating a federal safety net that provides impacted farms with financial relief. The monitoring, testing, and remediation provisions would be a gamechanger in our work to protect Maine’s agricultural communities from PFAS contamination. The state of Maine has been on the forefront of these efforts, but additional federal investments are vitally needed. I hope this bipartisan, bicameral legislation receives broad support across Congress to protect the future of Maine farming.” “As awareness of PFAS contamination has increased, Maine farmers have borne heavy costs to protect consumers from harmful chemicals,” said Representative Golden. ""The Relief for Farmers Hit with PFAS Act will provide local farmers with the support they need to keep their lights on while continuing to mitigate risk and protect the public from a health issue that isn’t farmers’ fault.” Specifically, the funds authorized by the Relief for Farmers Hit with PFAS Act could be used for a variety of purposes at the state level, including: Providing financial assistance to affected farmers; Building capacity for PFAS testing for soil or water sources; Monitoring blood for individuals to make informed decisions about their health; Upgrading or purchasing equipment to ensure a farm remains profitable during or after known PFAS contamination; Developing alternative production systems or remediation strategies; Developing educational programs for farmers experiencing PFAS contamination; and Researching soil and water remediation systems, and the viability of those systems for farms The bill would also create a task force at USDA charged with identifying other USDA programs to which PFAS contamination should be added as an eligible activity. This would help bring even more resources to farmers through existing programs. Additionally, the task force would provide technical assistance to states to help them coordinate their responses effectively. “Maine farmers, residents and policymakers are leading the country on tackling PFAS contamination in our food and water,” said Sarah Alexander, executive director of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA). “Maine has created essential policies to help farmers who have suffered consequences of forever chemicals through no fault of their own. Senator Collins’ and Congresswoman Pingree's bill signals a critical opportunity for the federal government to coordinate a response so that farmers across the country will have the support they need to address PFAS contamination.” “PFAS contamination of agricultural land is a nationwide challenge that has been met with an inconsistent patchwork of policy and program responses to date. What is needed in response to the challenge of PFAS contamination of agricultural land is dependable and comprehensive support so that farm families, the agricultural sector, and our food system are not in jeopardy. This bill seeks to do just that. Maine Farmland Trust is grateful for the introduction of the Relief for Farmers Hit with PFAS Act and the strong federal safety net of support that it would provide. Maine farmers stand with farmers nationwide who deserve comprehensive support and solutions,” said Shelley Megquier, Policy and Research Director of Maine Farmland Trust. “Farmers do not use PFAS. They take seriously the health of America’s families, and they share the concerns over forever chemicals,”said American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall. “Making farmers responsible for PFAS remediation threatens the economic sustainability of family farms and puts an incredible financial burden on victims of contamination. We appreciate Senator Collins and Representative Pingree for their work to protect farm families through the Relief for Farmers Hit with PFAS Act.” “American Farmland Trust (AFT) applauds the reintroduction of the bipartisan Farmers Hit with PFAS Act,” said Tim Fink, Vice President of Policy for AFT. “The discovery of PFAS contamination can be devastating for farms, farmers, and their families – all through no fault of their own. However, the experience of the Maine relief program has shown that with the right financial and technical support, most farms can return safely to operation. It’s time that this essential financial, technical, healthcare, and research support be available to impacted farmers across the nation.” ""PFAS contamination poses a significant threat to our farms, wildlife, and food,"" said Rebecca Meuninck, Ph.D., Great Lakes regional executive director for the National Wildlife Federation. ""Farmers are being put out of business because they unknowingly spread biosolids containing PFAS on their land or had their water contaminated from neighboring military or industrial sites. The reintroduction of this legislation is a big step forward in supporting farmers and ensuring their resilience against the impacts of PFAS."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-announces-jackson-laboratory-to-receive-maines-first-arpa-h-grant,Senator Collins Announces Jackson Laboratory to Receive Maine’s First ARPA-H Grant,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced today that The Jackson Laboratory (JAX) in Bar Harbor is the first-ever research institution in Maine to be awarded a grant from the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H). Specifically, JAX’s grant of up to $30.6 million over three years was awarded through ARPA-H’s Computational ADME-Tox and Physiology Analysis for Safer Therapeutics (CATALYST) program. The CATALYST program supports research partners across the country and seeks to develop computer models that mimic real human biology to study the safety and effectiveness of Investigational New Drug (IND) candidates, helping to ensure more prompt approval of promising medicines. This funding will support JAX’s efforts to create digital heart models rooted in both mouse and human biology that reflect a wide range of human cardiovascular differences. These models will allow researchers to better predict the safety and effectiveness of drugs across many genetic backgrounds and physiological variations, thus reducing the need for early-stage clinical trials. “ARPA-H seeks transformative biomedical breakthroughs happening all across the country to support with significant research funding. This more than $30 million grant is a testament to the incredible work happening at The Jackson Laboratory that has the potential to dramatically reduce the time and cost of drug development,” said Senator Collins. “I have been so proud to watch The Jackson Laboratory grow so much throughout my service in the Senate and cannot wait to see and continue to support the exciting progress this new ARPA-H grant will bring.” Senator Collins has been a longtime supporter of The Jackson Laboratory and other research institutions in Maine through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee. Since the return of Congressionally Directed Spending in 2021, Senator Collins has secured $11.5 million to support facility and equipment improvements at JAX, as well as construct a new facility for rare disease research. This funding allows JAX to continue to service biomedical researchers worldwide who require precision engineered and experimentally reliable models to advance understanding of human disease.? ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-calls-for-continued-bipartisan-support-for-alzheimers-biomedical-research,"Senator Collins Calls for Continued Bipartisan Support for Alzheimer’s, Biomedical Research",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click HERE and HERE for individual photos. Click HERE to watch and HERE to download the full interview. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease, took part in an event with the Alzheimer’s Association and Punchbowl News where she discussed her work to increase federal investments in Alzheimer’s research and biomedical innovation. Senator Collins spoke about the toll of Alzheimer’s on families, the need for greater support for caregivers, and bipartisan action she has taken in Congress to protect NIH and other research agencies from significant proposed funding reductions. Last month, Senator Collins introduced the bipartisan Alzheimer’s Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act. This bill would require the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to create a pathway to cover blood biomarker tests approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease, giving patients and their families more time to plan, seek support, and pursue the best options for care for their loved ones. Senator Collins has long led successful legislative efforts to advance Alzheimer’s research, prevention, and treatment. In the 118th Congress, there were 1,868 standalone health care bills introduced in both the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives. Of those bills, only 15 passed both chambers and were signed into law. U.S. Senator Susan Collins led or co-led 5 of those 15 bills to passage with strong bipartisan support, and 3 of those 5 bills dealt directly with brain health and Alzheimer’s: the National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA), the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act, and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act. Senator Collins on the Importance of Alzheimer’s Research Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of this exchange Andrew Desiderio: I want to shift now to the topic of the day, Alzheimer's disease, research, prevention, and funding, critically, because you are the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, so you have a really big role in all of this. But I want to step back a little bit. So, you are the founder and co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer's Disease. How did you first get involved in working on this issue in the Senate? Senator Collins: Well, like many people, my family has been harmed by this devastating disease. I lost my father, my grandfather, my two uncles, and a brother-in-law recently to Alzheimer's. So, I've seen firsthand how absolutely devastating it is, not only for the person who has Alzheimer's, but also for the caregivers, which are usually family members. And it is just a horrific disease. It's also one of our nation's most costly diseases. Last year alone, we've spent $360 billion caring for people with Alzheimer's. If the current trajectory continues, we'll spend a trillion dollars on Alzheimer's by the year 2050. So, it's something that, whether you look at it from a humanitarian perspective or a fiscal perspective, that warrants our paying a lot more attention to it. […] Andrew Desiderio: Senator, I want to note that the Administration has requested a funding increase specifically for Alzheimer's funding. So, does that give you some optimism here, that despite the actions the Administration has taken to cut back on NIH funding, to lay off employees, that they at least maybe recognize the need to get behind something like this, which you guys have done in your appropriations bills as well. Senator Collins: I do think it's a very good sign. If I were the President, I would embrace this and do a “Warp Speed” approach, the way we did with COVID. And I think this is something that affects so many families. And it's absolutely devastating to look into the eyes of a loved one and receive no sign of recognition in return. You lose the person before you physically lose the person. And it's just heartbreaking. And it also puts a tremendous toll on the caregivers. My mother took care of my father at home for years before he spent the last part of his life in the Veterans' Home in our hometown of Caribou. And it takes a tremendous toll. And think of people who leave their jobs to take care of a parent with Alzheimer's. We have a shortage of professional caregivers, and sometimes there's a resistance to having an outside caregiver come in and provide that care. And that's why, when you ask, what else am I working on? Caregivers—providing assistance to caregivers, providing some sort of tax incentive so that they can afford—they bear a lot of costs themselves. It's uncompensated care. And we need respite care. It would have been so helpful to families if they have a place to take their loved one so they just get a bit of a break from the 24-hour, around-the-clock care. So, in addition to pushing forward on approval by CMS without delays, the ASAP bill, continuing our exciting investment in research that's paying off, I'm also focused on helping caregivers. +++ Senator Collins on Protecting Biomedical Research Funding Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of this exchange Andrew Desiderio: We talk a lot about your role on the Appropriations Committee playing a crucial role in all of this. The committee has approved NIH funding increases for the next fiscal year for research, for example. But, as you know, that the Trump Administration has sought to rescind or pause NIH funding in general this year. How confident are you that, if and when this is actually signed into law, the Administration will adhere to it? Senator Collins: Well, we've put a number of guardrails in the bill to try to protect against the possibility of grants being rescinded, despite our rejection of the 41% cut that the Administration's budget proposed for NIH. It's not just NIH, it's also National Science Foundation, it's DoD medical research. There were a lot of cuts in medical research. Instead of cutting medical research by 41%, we were able to increase it by $400 million, and I'm really proud of that. And that bill was approved by a vote of 26 to 3 in the Appropriations Committee. Shelley Moore Capito and Tammy Baldwin are the Chair and Ranking Member of that subcommittee. Patty Murray is my counterpart at the full committee. We all worked as a team to make sure that didn't go through it. The bill also includes language requiring us, the Appropriations Committee, to be notified if grants are being clawed back or paused, so that we can evaluate whether or not it's justified, or whether or not it's an attempt to get around the increased funding that we have. So, that's an important guardrail as well. Andrew Desiderio: You mentioned the 26 to 3 vote in the Appropriations Committee. I think what a lot of people don't realize is that it's actually been Republicans in the Senate taking the lead in pushing back against the Administration on some of these rescissions and proposed funding cuts. When you see a piece of legislation pass by that big of a margin in any Senate committee, I think that represents some pretty strong pushback to the Administration. Senator Collins: It definitely does, and I'm really proud that we could put together that strong a vote. Now, we're trying to bring the bills to the floor, a five-bill package. Right now, we have a few problems that we're trying to work through, but I think that this is very exciting. Listen, from my perspective, there's no investment that is more worthwhile than our investment in biomedical research. And that is why the very first hearing that I held as the new Chair of the Appropriations Committee was entitled, ""Biomedical Research: Keeping America's Edge In Innovation."" And that's what we need to do. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3366,"Rep. Clyde, Sen. Lee Introduce Bill to Repeal D.C.’s Shield Law",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Andrew S. Clyde,C001116,clyde.house.gov,clyde,https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) introduced the D.C. Shield Law Repeal Act to nullify Washington, D.C.’s dangerous interstate shield law, the Human Rights Sanctuary Amendment Act of 2022, in order to hold D.C. providers accountable for undermining states’ pro-life and pro-child laws. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. “Both abortion and cross gender hormone drugs have serious, irreversible consequences,” said Clyde. “We cannot allow the Left’s woke ideology, under the guise of ‘bodily autonomy,’ to infiltrate our states through the shipping of these drugs with zero legal repercussions. Congress must use its constitutional authority over our nation’s capital to hold D.C. providers liable for undermining state laws and to protect women, children, and the unborn.” “Our nation’s capital should not be a refuge for people who take the lives of children or wreck their bodies with illegal drugs” said Lee. “Criminals on the lam can escape to DC after performing abortions in states where they are illegal, because they know DC will let them get away with it. This bill will repeal DC’s safe harbor for illegal abortionists and peddlers of drugs for transexual procedures, restoring the rule of law to Washington.” Bill text of the D.C. Shield Law Repeal Act is available HERE. Read the Daily Caller’s exclusive on the legislation HERE. Original co-sponsors include (25): Reps. Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Mike Bost (IL-12), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Jeff Crank (CO-05), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), Russ Fulcher (ID-01), Brandon Gill (TX-26), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Michael Guest (MS-03), Harriet Hageman (WY-At-Large), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Mark Harris (NC-08), Andy Harris (MD-01), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Mark Messmer (IN-08), Mary Miller (IL-15), Barry Moore (AL-01), Riley Moore (WV-02), Ralph Norman (SC-05), John Rose (TN-06), and Marlin Stutzman (IN-03). “Shield laws fly in the face of constitutional legality and basic morality,” said Rep. Stutzman. “D.C. providers prescribing chemical abortion pills and transgender therapy should not be protected from interstate investigations especially since the door is wide open for them to provide some of these drugs to minors. I am proud to cosponsor Congressman Clyde’s bill which will end this madness immediately.” The D.C Shield Law Repeal Act is supported by the following organizations: Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), Concerned Women for America (CWA), Family Research Council (FRC), and Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America (SBA). “We are grateful to Rep. Andrew Clyde for introducing this bill to repeal the so-called shield laws in Washington, D.C. These unconstitutional ‘shield laws’ open the door for the illegal and illicit flow of dangerous abortion drugs into prolife states, harm women and their unborn children, and protect abortion drug traffickers from legal liability. We commend Rep. Clyde for his leadership to repeal these pernicious laws that undermine the unalienable right to life,” said Alliance Defending Freedom Senior Counsel Matt Sharp. “Shield laws are an evil loophole created for abortion providers to free themselves from accountability. Not only do these harmful laws undermine state law, they leave women and children helpless and alone with dangerous drugs and no protections. Representative Clyde’s D.C. Shield Law Repeal Act is a necessary step to hold abortion providers accountable for protecting women and children,” said Penny Nance, CEO and President, Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee. “FRC is grateful to Rep. Clyde and Sen. Lee for introducing the D.C. Shield Law Repeal Act. Those who harm women and children via abortion or gender transition procedures should not be shielded from the repercussions of violating the law. This bill puts the victims first and helps ensure they can get justice. Washington, D.C. cannot be allowed to shield abortionists and ‘gender transition’ providers from being investigated and, if necessary, prosecuted for trafficking dangerous drugs in violation of state laws. Eleven percent of users experience serious complications, such as hemorrhage and life-threatening infections, after taking the abortion pill. If a woman in a pro-life state receives drugs that will kill her child from D.C. via the mail, the abortionist must be held accountable. If a young person in a pro-family state receives cross-sex hormones or puberty blockers, which can cause blood clots, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, destabilization of certain psychiatric disorders, sterilization, and more, from D.C. via the mail, the provider must be held accountable. D.C. does not have a right to override state laws. States have a right to protect their citizens, and victims must be protected.” said FRC’s Director of Federal Affairs MaryBeth Waddell. “So-called Shield laws protect abortionists, not women. DC's shield law gives broad immunity to abortionists, shielding them from criminal, civil, and professional consequences even when they violate other state pro-life laws. This includes allowing DC abortionists to prescribe and ship dangerous abortion drugs to people living in pro-life states where they are not licensed. Thank you, Rep. Clyde, for working to protect babies and their mothers by introducing the D.C. Shield Law Repeal Act to repeal this extremely reckless law,” said Marilyn Musgrave, Vice President of Government Affairs, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America. “Our forefathers fought arduously to bring to life the Declaration of Independence and the 14th amendment in order to promise that any state should not deprive any person of life and liberty without due process- nor deny any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the law. There’s no asterisk that declares a person must be in a special location, certain age, race or ethnicity for this to be their birthright. To be able to deny children access to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness is declaring the fight from our forefathers null and void. Life begins with the right to exist. Repealing shield law will just be the beginning of providing accountability to those who are trying to take away fundamental rights set forth by our United States government. Our center has seen first-hand the impact shield laws weaponization has had to deny life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These laws strip women and families of the ability to make informed decisions regarding each one of these founding principles,” said Beth Thomason, Director of Operations for Choices Pregnancy Center Rabun County. Background In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, liberal states have drafted “shield laws” for abortion providers who perform abortions or prescribe abortion medication and cross gender hormone drugs to individuals in states where these actions are now prohibited. Each law varies slightly, but they all ultimately seek to allow the shield state to refuse to comply with another state's investigation or penalization of a provider. Currently, 22 states and Washington, D.C. have similar laws. In 2022, the D.C. Council introduced the Human Rights Sanctuary Amendment Act to protect individuals and providers in Washington, D.C. from being held legally accountable in other states for engaging in or providing abortions and cross gender hormone drugs. Specifically, the measure prohibits D.C. officials from cooperating with out-of-state investigations or legal actions targeting these activities and allows individuals, including providers, to sue for damages if they are targeted by such out-of-state lawsuits. Additionally, it requires that any out-of-state subpoena seeking information or testimony must include a sworn statement confirming it is not related to these protected “bodily autonomy” activities before it can be enforced in D.C. The bill became law in 2023, serving as D.C.’s interstate shield law. Rep. Clyde’s D.C. Shield Law Repeal Act repeals the radical D.C. Council’s Human Rights Sanctuary Amendment Act in order to protect women, children, and the unborn by delivering commonsense accountability to D.C. providers that undermine states with pro-life and anti-“gender affirming” laws, such as Georgia. In fact, D.C.’s shield law has directly impacted Rep. Clyde’s rural District in Northeast Georgia. In 2024, a volunteer for a crisis pregnancy center obtained mifepristone via mail, despite the online request being in clear violation of Georgia law. The dangerous pills came in a plain brown envelope, postmarked from Washington, D.C. The effort was meant to showcase the radical, unlawful, and widespread access to abortion drugs. Yet if these pills had harmed one of Rep. Clyde’s constituents, the provider could not be held legally responsible due to D.C.’s shield law. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 17 of the Constitution grants Congress exclusive legislative authority to manage Washington, D.C.’s affairs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-questions-health-insurance-experts-on-fixes-for-aca-subsidies,Senator Collins Questions Health Insurance Experts on Fixes for ACA Subsidies,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, at a hearing of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, U.S. Senator Susan Collins questioned health insurance experts on the growing affordability challenges within the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace and the need for bipartisan reforms. Senator Collins underscored that current enhanced premium tax credits, which were enacted during the Biden Administration and were intended to be temporary, come with significant unintended consequences for American families, including excessively high deductibles and subsidy eligibility thresholds. Senator Collins also emphasized that addressing these issues will require both short- and long-term solutions. Hearing witnesses discussed potential solutions such as reinstating a meaningful income cap for premium tax credits, adding guardrails to prevent high-income or high-asset households from being eligible for subsidies, and shrinking the gap between the increase in both coverage costs and average worker earnings. Senator Collins’ Introductory Comments on ACA Subsidies Click HERE to watch and HERE to download Senator Collins: I feel compelled to respond to the Ranking Member's remarks about whether or not Republicans care about this issue. It is obvious that we care deeply about the affordability of health care for our constituents. I would point out that the Chairman of this committee is a Republican. He's the one who has convened this important hearing. He is also the one who has worked night and day, with many of us, to talk about solutions. By contrast, the policy that we're talking about, during the Biden era, was rammed through with no Republican support, and it was supposed to sunset so that we could have a more thoughtful approach, and it's now placed working Americans in a terrible bind. Mr. White, in his written testimony, refers to the affordability gap, the growing difference between the high price of coverage and workers’ earnings, and that's why we should be putting partisan politics aside and trying to work together to come up with solutions. The so called “free” bronze plans have huge out of pocket deductibles, enormous, unaffordable deductibles. That is an untenable situation, which is why our Chairman has talked about health savings accounts, has talked about cost sharing reductions. I want to bring up another issue, and let me say, I think there's a limit to what we can do in this first year. I think we're going to need a two-year plan. Senator Murkowski and others have proposed multi-year plans as well. +++ Q&A on Solutions to Runaway Health Care Costs Click HERE to watch and HERE to download Senator Collins: I want to ask Mr. White about a short-term solution that could be added this year, and then a longer-term solution that I'd like to hear the panel's views on. First, there is no income cap on the enhanced premium tax credits. That means, according to our calculations, that a family of four living in Augusta, Maine, making $325,000 a year—which I can tell you, would cover very few people in Augusta, Maine—qualify for a taxpayer funded subsidy. Mr. White, do you think we should put a reasonable cap—phase it out so we don't have a cliff—on who qualifies for these enhanced premium tax credits? Joel White, President of the Council for Affordable Health Coverage: Absolutely, yes. We need to understand that those subsidies above 400% of poverty are financed, in part, by taxes on working Americans. Someone working in a bakery, a gas station, a lower income family is paying taxes to subsidize the subsidies for someone making $200,000, $300,000, $400,000 a year. That is not fair. So there needs to be some kind of recognition that we can't tax low-income people to pay for high-income people's subsidies. The second point I’ll make is there's no asset test on these enhanced subsidies. And so, as an early retiree, I might have a sizable nest egg, maybe a million dollars, and have an income of $200,000 and still qualify for a subsidy paid for by a lower working-class American—that's not fair either. Senator Collins: Thank you. Ms. Strouse, same question. Marcie Strouse, Owner and Partner of Capitol Benefits Group: Yeah, I agree that if we are going to keep the subsidies in place, that we would need to have some sort of an income cap on there. And then also for those people that potentially are underestimating their income to receive subsidies, they should be required to pay subsidies back at the time that they verify their taxes at the end of the year. So, there should be some sort of safety net that makes sure that they're paying the appropriate amount that they should be paying. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-statement-on-the-passing-of-charles-norman-shay,Senator Collins’ Statement on the Passing of Charles Norman Shay,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click HERE for a full-resolution image WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement on the passing of Charles Norman Shay, a decorated World War II and Korean War veteran and member of the Penobscot Nation, at the age of 101: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Charles Norman Shay, a remarkable hero who made countless sacrifices to protect our country during World War II and the Korean War. A proud member of the Penobscot Nation and a graduate of Old Town High School, Charles embodied the very best of our state. “I had the privilege of meeting Charles on several occasions, including in Normandy during the 75th anniversary of D-Day. Meeting Charles, I was struck by his humility and the profound sense of duty to his fellow soldiers that guided him throughout his service. “Maine and our nation have lost an extraordinary patriot. I send my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, the Penobscot Nation, and all who were inspired by his remarkable life. We will forever honor his service, his sacrifice, and his unwavering devotion to his fellow veterans and our country.” +++ As a 19-year-old Army medic, Private Shay was assigned to an assault battalion in the first wave of attack at the beaches of Normandy on D-Day. For his valor on the battlefield, having rescued drowning and wounded comrades under enemy fire, he received the Silver Star. After additional frontline duty in the Battle of the Bulge and the Rhine, he was captured in the Sieg Valley. Spending nearly a month in German prison camps, Shay was liberated on April 18. In 1945, after World War II had ended, he was awarded four bronze battle stars and demobilized. Shay went on to serve as a medic in the Korean War, where he received the Bronze Star with two Oak Leaf Clusters for Valor and was nominated for a second Silver Star. Six months after his honorable discharge from the U.S. Army, Shay joined the Air Force Reserve in February 1952. In the summer of 1964, after more than twenty years in the U.S. military, Master Sergeant Shay retired and, a year later, obtained a position with the International Atomic Energy Agency, where he worked for 20 years. In his later years, Charles dedicated himself to ensuring that the courageous stories of Native American veterans were told. The Charles Shay Indian Memorial overlooking Omaha Beach in France stands as a lasting tribute to his life and to all the Native American soldiers who served our country with distinction in World War II. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7029,"Allen, Arrington Fight to Lower Health Care Costs, Increase Transparency",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Rick W. Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,allen,https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) recently joined House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) in introducing the Healthy Competition for Better Care Act. This bipartisan legislation promotes transparency in health care, cracks down on anti-competitive practices, and removes restrictions preventing competition in health care markets. ""I have often said that the best way to lower health care costs for hardworking Americans is to enhance competition in the marketplace. For too long, anti-competitive practices have driven up premiums and out-of-pocket costs while simultaneously limiting consumers’ ability to choose the health care plan that meets their needs,"" said Congressman Allen. ""The Healthy Competition for Better Care Act proposes comprehensive reforms to improve our flawed system by increasing transparency, fostering greater competition, expanding access to quality care, and lowering skyrocketing health care costs. I thank Representative Arrington for his leadership on this legislation and look forward to its consideration by the Education and Workforce Committee."" ""Americans are paying too much for too little health care,"" said Chairman Arrington. ""My Healthy Competition for Better Care Act cracks down on anti-competitive practices, removes unnecessary restrictions, and gives patients the freedom to find better-quality and lower-cost care. This bipartisan legislation puts hardworking families first, ensures fair competition, and puts patients, not bureaucrats, back in charge of their health care."" ""ERIC strongly supports the 'Healthy Competition for Better Care Act' because it promotes transparency, eliminates anti-competitive barriers, and empowers patients to choose high-quality, lower-cost care,"" said Melissa Bartlett, Senior Vice President of Health Policy at The ERISA Industry Committee. ""Encouraging these value-driven provider partnerships is essential to helping employers and employees access the best care at the best prices. We applaud Representatives Arrington, Davis and Allen for introducing the legislation and look forward to working with them to advance more affordable health care solutions."" BACKGROUND: The legislation promotes transparency in health care, cracks down on anti-competitive practices, and removes restrictions preventing competition in health care markets. In all, making health care better for patients and lowering health care costs. The legislation enables more group health plans and health insurance issuers to enter into agreements with providers that guide enrollees to high-value providers and provide incentives to encourage enrollees to seek higher-quality, lower-cost care. The legislation was scored by the Congressional Budget Office last Congress to save an estimated $4.9 billion over 10 years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16027,E&C holds hearing on Carter's bill protecting kids' online safety,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Energy and Commerce Committee (E&C) today held a Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade Subcommittee hearing entitled “Legislative Solutions to Protect Children and Teens Online,” which included Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter’s (R-GA) bipartisan bill, Sammy’s Law. Sammy’s Law is a bill safeguarding children online by informing parents about dangerous interactions on social media. The bill, which gives parents the choice to use third-party safety software to protect their children from harmful situations on social media, is named after Sammy Chapman, who, at the age of 16, was approached by a drug dealer on Snapchat and was unknowingly a victim of fentanyl poisoning. “Our children are being victimized by bad actors on social media,” said Rep. Carter. “As a father and a grandfather, my heart aches for Sammy’s parents and any others who have lost a child too soon. No parent should have to endure that pain. I believe Sammy’s Law is essential to addressing this silent epidemic that is in homes across America, as it would offer effective barriers against drug abuse, human trafficking, mental health crises, eating disorders, and other harmful situations before they endanger our children. I thank the Energy and Commerce Committee for holding this hearing today and urge continued bipartisan support for this critical, life-saving legislation.” Read full bill text here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://jack.house.gov/media/press-releases/major-arenas-endorse-congressman-brian-jacks-bipartisan-muhammad-ali-american,Major Arenas Endorse Congressman Brian Jack’s Bipartisan Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Brian Jack,J000311,jack.house.gov,jack,https://jack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Regan Hinson WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Brian Jack (GA-03) announced that five of the largest arena operators in the United States have endorsed the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act (H.R. 4624), bipartisan legislation that seeks to establish regulatory certainty and encourage innovation to reverse the steady decline of professional boxing in America. The arena operators which have expressed their support in letters to the U.S. House Committee on Education & Workforce include AEG, Legends Global, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp., MGM Resorts International, and Oak View Group. Collectively, these companies represent many of the most prestigious venues in the United States, including: ● State Farm Arena (Atlanta) ● Madison Square Garden (New York City) ● Chartway Arena (Norfolk) ● Little Caesars Arena (Detroit) ● Target Center (Minneapolis) ● T-Mobile Arena (Las Vegas) ● Crypto.com Arena (Los Angeles) ● Prudential Center (Newark) “Over the last two decades, boxing in America has faced a steady decline. The number of marquee boxing fights held at American venues is a fraction of what it used to be, with many of boxing’s premier events now taking place overseas,” said Congressman Brian Jack. “As these boxing matches have migrated outside of the United States, they have also taken away the economic benefits our local communities once enjoyed during the golden age of boxing. Passage of the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act will revitalize this once-great American sport, and drastically increase the number of professional boxing events held in communities across the United States.” Major boxing events create enormous economic success for the host communities. Local workers are employed in event operations, hospitality, security, and across many other functions. In addition, neighboring businesses outside of the arenas, such as restaurants, bars, and hotels, all experience revenue spikes due to the increase in consumer spending from local fans and out-of-town visitors. Passage of the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act will increase the number of professional boxing matches in the United States by encouraging and incentivizing new promotions to produce such events. MAABRA preserves the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act (the ""Ali Act"") that was codified in 2000, and enhances the Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 by adding supplemental provisions to improve the safety and well-being of boxers. The bill establishes a national minimum payment-per-round for all professional boxers ($150 per round), which prevents up-and-coming fighters from being exploited. In addition, all professional boxers would have access to better health insurance, including a first-time national minimum of $25,000 of coverage for injuries sustained during a bout – higher than the current minimum in 43 states. MAABRA allows for the creation of alternative systems called Unified Boxing Organizations (UBOs), which would provide boxers with better health and safety protections, greater compensation, and more choice and opportunities. UBOs would not replace the current sanctioning organizations. Instead, UBOs would exist side-by-side and operate independently, with UBO events regulated by state athletic commissions. Boxers would have the freedom to choose which of the two systems – the existing sanctioning organizations model or the new UBO model – is most advantageous to them. This legislation represents the first update to boxing in a quarter-century and will revive a once-great American sport.",1,2026-04-11T05:33:44Z,2026-04-11T05:34:52Z https://mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-mccormick-castro-olszewski-and-fitzpatrick-introduce-global-child-thrive,"Reps. McCormick, Castro, Olszewski, and Fitzpatrick Introduce Global Child Thrive Reauthorization Act of 2025",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Richard McCormick,M001218,mccormick.house.gov,mccormick,https://mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C — Today, Congressman Rich McCormick (GA-07), Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Congressman Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), introduced the Global Child Thrive Reauthorization Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation that would strengthen the implementation of policies that advance early childhood development internationally. “I am proud to cosponsor the reauthorization of the Global Child Thrive Act. This initiative enhances America's leadership on the global stage by ensuring that vulnerable children receive the support they need to grow and succeed,” said Congressman Rich McCormick. “By extending this program for another six years and establishing a Special Advisor to oversee it, we are making a smart investment that promotes stability and delivers a strong return for American taxpayers. I am grateful for the ongoing bipartisan support this initiative has received since it was first championed by leaders like Senator Marco Rubio.” “Reauthorizing the Global Child Thrive Act of 2020 means continuing to support the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional health of vulnerable children and their families,” said Congressman Castro. “The early years of childhood are crucial, and U.S. foreign assistance programs provide critical support. Thank you to my colleagues for their efforts in supporting these important policies.” “Every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and reach their full potential — no matter where they’re born,” said Congressman Johnny Olszewski. “The Global Child Thrive Reauthorization Act puts that belief at the heart of America’s work around the world. I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to support early childhood development, protect vulnerable children, and strengthen families and communities. It’s the right thing to do — and it helps build healthier societies, reduce poverty, and advance America’s values and security for years to come.” “We applaud Representatives Castro, McCormick, Fitzpatrick, and Olszewski for their bipartisan leadership in ensuring that the world’s most vulnerable children are able to grow up to their full potential, protected from abuse, neglect and trafficking. The Global Child Thrive Act is a bipartisan recognition that every child, regardless of where they are born, has the right to grow up safe, healthy, and supported. The Global Child Thrive Act ensures early childhood development is a priority, not an afterthought,” said Bruce Lesley, President, First Focus Campaign for Children. “The earliest years of life are the most critical for healthy brain development.” stresses Michael J. Nyenhuis, UNICEF USA CEO and President. “Ensuring that early childhood development remains a strong component of U.S. foreign assistance will help to support the growth and development of hundreds of millions of children under the age of 5 globally who currently face extreme poverty and stunting. We’re thrilled to support the bipartisan reauthorization of the Global Child Thrive Act so that these children have an equitable chance to not only survive, but thrive.” “The Global Child Thrive Act is an important step to reach vulnerable children with the basics they need, like good nutrition and responsive family care. Prioritizing the needs of young children and their families leads to far-reaching benefits in health, education, and much more. The Global Child Thrive Act is key to making this impact possible,” said Mishelle Rudzinski, Executive Director, SPOON. The Global Child Thrive Reauthorization Act of 2025 reauthorizes the Global Child Thrive Act of 2020, landmark legislation that was enacted in early 2021 that strengthened the prioritization of supporting early childhood development in foreign assistance. The Global Child Reauthorization Act of 2025 would: Require the Secretary of State to appoint a new Special Advisor for Orphans and Vulnerable Children, a position that coordinates all United States foreign assistance programs for orphans and vulnerable children. This position has traditionally resided at the United States Agency for International Development and is currently unfilled. Require the administration to issue new guidelines to implement the Global Child Thrive Act of 2020.",1,2026-04-16T05:48:36Z,2026-04-16T05:50:08Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-announces-release-of-nearly-40-million-in-federal-home-heating-aid-for-mainers,Senator Collins Announces Release of Nearly $40 Million in Federal Home Heating Aid for Mainers,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced today that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Community Services has released $39,780,472 in Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding, with $38,321,610 being allocated for the State of Maine and $1,458,862 for the Indian Township and Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy, Penobscot, Maliseet, and Mi’kmaq Tribes in Maine. LIHEAP funding will help low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes in Maine afford their energy bills this winter. Last month, Senators Collins, Jack Reed (D-RI), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) along with a bipartisan group of 28 other Senators urged HHS to swiftly distribute LIHEAP dollars that had been delayed following the recent federal government shutdown. As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins helped advance a $20 million increase in funding for LIHEAP in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Labor, HHS, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, which passed the Committee with strong bipartisan support earlier this year. The bill is awaiting consideration by the full Senate. “LIHEAP funding provides vital relief to thousands of Mainers, helping them avoid the constant worry of having to choose between heating their homes and covering other basic necessities,” said Senator Collins. “I am glad that following our outreach, HHS has released funds for this critical program. As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to support this program and work to ensure that households in Maine and throughout the country can afford to heat their homes this winter.” According to a new forecast from the National Energy Assistance Directors Association, home heating costs are estimated to rise nearly 8 percent over last winter on average, with costs for heating with electricity forecasted to increase even higher–to 10 percent above last year. Nationwide, an estimated 6.2 million households received assistance with heating and cooling costs through LIHEAP over the last year. In Maine, households received $41.6 million in FY 2025 LIHEAP funding. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources. While eligibility varies by state, most applicants must have a household income below 150 percent of the federal poverty guideline or 60 percent of the state median income. LIHEAP applications are now open for all income-eligible households. Senior citizens and those receiving Social Security Disability or SSI benefits are encouraged to apply as early as possible, but applications will be open to everyone through spring of 2026, or until the funding is exhausted. Maine residents can click here to apply. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-substance-use-and-mental-illness-provisions-signed-into-law,Senator Collins’ Substance Use and Mental Illness Provisions Signed into Law,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The President signed into law the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act, a bipartisan bill that strengthens prevention, treatment, and recovery services for Americans with substance use disorders and mental illness. The legislation contains several provisions authored and supported by Senator Collins. “The opioid and mental health crises continue to devastate families and communities nationwide, including right here in Maine. This bill expands the options and resources available for local communities to support individuals battling addiction and mental illness,” said Senator Collins. “I’d like to congratulate my friend and colleague Senator Cassidy for his leadership that was instrumental in getting this bill signed into law. I’m especially proud that several of my provisions, which support recovery, research, maternal and child health, and loan repayment for substance use disorder professionals, are included in this legislation.” Several provisions championed by Senator Collins that will directly benefit Mainers are included in this law: Peer Support Services Center of Excellence: Reauthorizes the National Peer-Run Training and Technical Assistance Center for Addiction Recovery Support. The Center provides technical support to recovery organizations and peer networks across the country and now includes a pilot program to provide additional technical support in specific regions. Senator Collins created the National Peer-Run Training and Technical Assistance Center, which was inspired by the work of the Bangor Area Recovery Network in Brewer, as part of the original SUPPORT Act. Medication Assisted Treatment and Education Act Technical Correction: Updates training requirements for opioid prescribers, ensuring that professionals such as dentists, family physicians, and other clinicians are not required to repeat duplicative or irrelevant continuing education courses. Maternal and Child Health Programs: Reauthorizes Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) programs to prevent substance use disorders among pregnant and postpartum women. These programs are critical in addressing the high rate of neonatal abstinence syndrome in Maine and supporting the health of mothers and infants. Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery Loan Repayment: Extends the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) STAR Loan Repayment Program through fiscal year 2029 and increases funding from $25 million to $40 million. This program offers loan repayment for substance use disorder professionals who agree to serve in underserved areas with high overdose rates, including at hospitals and facilities in Maine. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Programs: Reauthorizes federal programs under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that support prevention, early identification, intervention, and research on fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Communities of Recovery Grant Program: Expands the Building Communities of Recovery grant program, increasing funding from $5 million to $16 million annually to strengthen recovery services. The SUPPORT Act also strengthens workforce training for first responders, protects the 9-8-8 Suicide Prevention Lifeline from cybersecurity threats, and helps individuals in recovery reenter the workforce. Last year, Senator Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, secured more than $23 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for mental health and substance use disorder treatment programs and facilities in Maine through the Fiscal Year 2024 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-federal-workers-access-to-injury-compensation,Senator Collins Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Federal Workers’ Access to Injury Compensation,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of Senator Collins introducing the bill on the Senate floor Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the bipartisan Improving Access to Workers’ Compensation for Injured Federal Workers Act. This legislation would allow Physician Assistants (PAs) and Nurse Practitioners (NPs) to certify injuries and oversee treatment for federal workers with injuries or illnesses that occurred on the job, when doing so is consistent with the scope of their practice under state law. “In a large, rural state like Maine, finding access to health care close to home can be a challenge,” said Senator Collins. “Nurse practitioners and physician assistants help to fill in this gap by providing quality medical services to local communities. By allowing injured federal workers to be treated by these professionals, our bipartisan bill would help prevent the need for long and difficult travel, reduce wait times for care, and improve employees’ overall health and wellbeing.” Federal employees can already select a PA or a NP as their primary health care provider within the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program. However, the Federal Employees Compensation Act (FECA) permits only a physician to make the diagnosis, certify the injury and extent of the disability, and oversee the patient’s treatments and care when the federal employee is injured on the job. The Improving Access to Workers’ Compensation for Injured Federal Workers Act would amend FECA to allow injured workers to receive treatment for work-related injuries from state-licensed physician associates/physician assistants and nurse practitioners. Current law prohibits federal workers from being treated by PAs and NPs for worker compensation cases. The bill has been endorsed by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, the American Academy of Physician Associates, and the National Association of Letter Carriers. “The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), on behalf of the over 431,000 nurse practitioners nationwide, commends Senators Collins and Blumenthal for their leadership on the Improving Access to Workers’ Compensation for Injured Federal Workers Act of 2025,” said AANP President, Valerie J. Fuller, PhD, DNP. “This legislation will ensure injured federal employees receive the care they need from their chosen and trusted health care provider. By authorizing NPs to certify workplace injuries and oversee the patient’s treatment and care, federal employees will return to work sooner.” “The American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) applauds Senators Collins and Blumenthal for championing this commonsense legislation. Too many federal workers still face outdated barriers that delay or deny the care they need when they get injured on the job,” said AAPA President Todd Pickard, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA, FASCO. “With more than 190,000 PAs practicing nationwide and delivering high-quality care across every specialty, the reintroduction of this bill is an important step toward modernizing our system and ensuring federal employees can get timely, expert care without unnecessary roadblocks.” “When a letter carrier, or any federal employee, is injured on the job, finding quality, convenient, and timely care is essential. The National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) appreciates Senator Collins and Senator Blumenthal’s leadership in introducing this bill and urges Congress to pass it,” said NALC President Brian L. Renfroe. The complete text of the bill can be read here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16026,WATCH: Carter supports research and development to improve outcomes for children with rare diseases,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today spoke on the House floor in favor of H.R. 1262, the Mikaela Naylon Give Kids a Chance Act, which boasts bipartisan support and invests in research and development of cures and treatments for children with rare diseases, including cancer. Watch and read his full speech here: “Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the bipartisan Give Kids a Chance Act, which supports research and development of drugs for children with cancer and other rare diseases. “Nearly 70% of rare diseases start in childhood, and most still have no approved treatments. The Rare Pediatric Disease Priority Review Voucher program has been a catalyst for developing therapies for these vulnerable populations. “Thanks to this program, treatments have reached children suffering from nearly 40 rare diseases, many of which previously had no FDA-approved options and often led to severe disability or death before adulthood. “Since 2012, the Rare Pediatric Disease PRV Program has helped bring more than 60 new treatments to market and has driven investment in hundreds of additional therapies for rare pediatric diseases that would otherwise be financially unviable. “The Give Kids a Chance Act restores this critical program, ensuring that we continue to spur innovation, improve outcomes for young patients, and close gaps in pediatric drug research. “Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support this bill.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://jack.house.gov/media/press-releases/mike-tyson-endorses-congressman-brian-jacks-bipartisan-muhammad-ali-american,Mike Tyson Endorses Congressman Brian Jack’s Bipartisan Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,GA,Brian Jack,J000311,jack.house.gov,jack,https://jack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Regan Hinson WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Brian Jack (GA-03) announced Mike Tyson’s endorsement of the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act (H.R. 4624), bipartisan legislation that provides professional boxers with more opportunities, better pay, and greater safety protections. “I am honored to earn the support of Mike Tyson, one of the greatest boxers of all time. Mike Tyson’s unprecedented success in the sport enabled him to transcend his accomplishments in the ring, and become an American cultural phenomenon,” said Congressman Brian Jack. “Mike Tyson supports the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act because it protects boxers and offers more choice and new career opportunities for fighters to reach the same level of success that he once earned.” Mike Tyson joins Lonnie Ali, the wife of Muhammad Ali, the Association of Boxing Commissions, and dozens of health and safety experts who support the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act (MAABRA). In his letter to the U.S. House Committee on Education & Workforce, Mike Tyson wrote, “Muhammad Ali has always been my hero, both inside and outside the ring. Supporting these revisions honors the spirit of the original Ali Act by closing loopholes that have allowed some promoters to regain monopolistic control over fighters’ careers. This new legislation restores balance – allowing boxers to choose their own path while preserving the integrity of the sport. The Act does not alter the opportunities of those who are comfortable with the current system; it simply adds options for fighters who wish to pursue a different path that better suits their career goals.” In addition, Mike Tyson underscored the greater protections and compensation MAABRA offers boxers: “The proposed reforms provide meaningful benefits for fighters. Establishing a per-round minimum ensures that every athlete who steps into the ring receives fair compensation for the risks they take with their body and mind. The requirement for mandatory health insurance is equally critical – no fighter should ever have to choose between paying medical bills and pursuing their career. I’ve seen too many of my peers face that impossible decision.” MAABRA preserves the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act (the “Ali Act”) that was codified in 2000, and enhances the Professional Boxing Safety Act of 1996 by adding supplemental provisions to improve the safety and well-being of boxers. The bill establishes a national minimum payment-per-round for all professional boxers ($150 per round), which prevents up-and-coming fighters from being exploited. In addition, all professional boxers would have access to better health insurance, including a first-time national minimum of $25,000 of coverage for injuries sustained during a bout – higher than the current minimum in 43 states. MAABRA allows for the creation of alternative systems called Unified Boxing Organizations (UBOs), which would provide boxers with better health and safety protections, greater compensation, and more choice and opportunities. UBOs would not replace the current sanctioning organizations. Instead, UBOs would exist side-by-side and operate independently, with UBO events regulated by state athletic commissions. Boxers would have the freedom to choose which of the two systems – the existing sanctioning organizations model or the new UBO model – is most advantageous to them. This legislation represents the first update to boxing in a quarter-century and will revive a once-great American sport. Read the full bill text here.",1,2026-04-10T05:46:57Z,2026-04-10T05:48:19Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16016,Carter donates salary during shutdown to Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia,2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"SAVANNAH, GA – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today announced that he has donated his congressional salary for the 43 days that the government was shut down to America’s Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia. This donation comes after Rep. Carter sent a letter requesting that his pay be withheld during the duration of the shutdown, a time when Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia stepped up to assist Georgia families on SNAP, WIC, and other government services that lapsed in funding, including those service members and federal employees who missed paychecks or had them threatened. “Second Harvest helped many Georgians through the uncertainty of the shutdown; however, its impact has been felt in our area for many years, and countless families have been touched by its service and generosity. This donation will help ensure it and its volunteers can continue their great work through the holiday season, and I thank Second Harvest for being a valuable partner in Coastal Georgia,” said Rep. Buddy Carter. “We are deeply grateful to Rep. Earl ‘Buddy’ Carter for his gracious donation to Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia,”said Dan Umbel, President of the Board of Directors. “At a time when many families are facing heightened need, Rep. Carter’s support strengthens our ability to fight hunger across our region and reflects a true commitment to the well-being of every neighbor we serve.”",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-attends-maine-veterans-homes-35th-anniversary-open-house,Senator Collins Attends Maine Veterans’ Homes 35th Anniversary Open House,2025-11-23,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos Caribou, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins attended the Caribou Maine Veterans’ Home’s (MVH) 35th anniversary open house yesterday and celebrated alongside residents and their families, staff, community partners, and board members. “The incredible staff at MVH Caribou provide dedicated and skilled care for the heroes who have sacrificed to defend our freedom. It was a pleasure to join the MVH community as this wonderful organization marks 35 years of caring for Maine veterans in Aroostook County,” said Senator Collins. “As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for funding to ensure Maine’s veterans have access to the benefits and resources they have earned through their service.” Senator Collins secured $6.6 million through Fiscal Year 2023 and 2024 appropriations legislation for MVH facilities and has advanced more than $3.6 million in legislation that is currently pending in the Senate. Through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion in Congressionally Directed Spending for 534 local projects across Maine in the last five years, including investments that support law enforcement and first responders, improve access to health care, strengthen rural infrastructure, and support childcare and workforce development. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-visits-northern-light-ar-gould-hospital,Senator Collins Visits Northern Light AR Gould Hospital,2025-11-23,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos Presque Isle, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins visited Northern Light AR Gould Hospital yesterday to meet with staff and see the new Linear Accelerator (LINAC) radiation therapy equipment for cancer patients. Senator Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, secured $3.016 million through Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations legislation for the purchase of this machine, which will help to improve care for cancer patients across Aroostook County. “The health care professionals of Northern Light AR Gould Hospital provide critical and compassionate care for their patients, and I’m delighted to join in celebrating this great advancement in cancer care for Mainers in the County,” said Senator Collins. “As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for funding to support rural health care providers and the care of cancer patients throughout the State of Maine.” Through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion in Congressionally Directed Spending for 534 local projects across Maine in the last five years, including investments that support law enforcement and first responders, improve access to health care, strengthen rural infrastructure, and support childcare and workforce development. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16015,Watch: Carter denounces the horrors of socialism,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today spoke in favor of Representative Maria Elvira Salazar's (R-FL) resolution, Denouncing the Horrors of Socialism, which overwhelmingly passed the House of Representatives. Watch Rep. Carter's remarks here Read Rep. Carter's full remarks, as prepared for delivery, in favor of this resolution: ""Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this resolution denouncing the horrors of socialism, and there are horrors. ""Socialism has no place in our country. ""Unfortunately, the so-called 'woke' liberals in New York City don’t seem to understand that socialism is nothing more than mutually assured poverty and recently voted to bring these failed policies to their own once great city. ""While I am saddened that New Yorkers will be willing victims of Zohran Mamdani’s designed-to-fail socialist policies, I have filed legislation ensuring not one dime goes to fund his un-American agenda. ""The rest of the country should not be forced to subsidize one mayor’s destructive actions. ""Today’s resolution builds on those efforts, making it clear that the United States does not stand for, does not support, does not condone a system of government that makes people poorer, less free, and less safe. ""With this resolution, we reiterate our nation’s commitment to remaining a free, a prosperous society. ""Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I yield back.""",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-visits-central-aroostook-ambulance-service,Senator Collins Visits Central Aroostook Ambulance Service,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos. Blaine, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins visited the Central Aroostook Ambulance Service (CAAS) in Blaine to meet with the crew, board members, and local town managers, and to see the new ambulance CAAS purchased with the support of $454,000 that Senator Collins secured through Fiscal Year 2023 appropriations legislation. “The emergency responders, paramedics, and drivers of the Central Aroostook Ambulance Service work hard to provide Mainers in Blaine, Bridgewater, and Mars Hill with access to reliable and high-quality emergency medical services when they need them most.” said Senator Collins. “As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for funding to support Maine’s EMS and rural health care providers.” Through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion in Congressionally Directed Spending for 534 local projects across Maine in the last five years, including investments that strengthen rural infrastructure, improve access to health care, and support childcare and workforce development. This month, Senator Collins received the Legislator of the Year Award from the American Ambulance Association for her work on the Protecting Access to Ground Ambulance Medical Services Act and the Comprehensive Alternative Response to Emergencies (CARE) Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16012,Carter calls for increased ICE presence in Atlanta to address criminal illegal immigration problem,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons calling for increased ICE and DHS resources to address safety concerns in Atlanta, Georgia, by enhancing federal enforcement of immigration laws. Recent reports find that Georgia is home to 479,000 illegal immigrants, making it the sixth highest state in the nation for illegal immigration. In the letter, Rep. Carter writes, “Rising levels of illegal immigrants and increasing threats to public safety in Georgia highlight the urgent need for an enhanced ICE presence in Atlanta. Recently, ICE arrested Salvador Rodriguez-Mendoza, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico with an active arrest warrant for murder and two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon by the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office. Additionally... a mother of five children was brutally murdered by a criminal illegal alien from Honduras.” Rep. Carter continues, “Every single person who is here illegally has broken the law and must be treated accordingly; anything less invites a culture of not just mass illegal immigration, but mass crime…Without the increased assistance of federal agents with local law enforcement, more of these criminals will…never face justice.” Rep. Carter notes that under President Trump’s leadership, the southern border is secure, “with apprehensions at their lowest level in fifty years.” While this progress represents a landmark achievement for the nation, significant work remains to address the lasting, disastrous impacts of the Biden-Harris border crisis, supported by Senator Jon Ossoff. Read the full letter here.",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3350,Rep. Clyde’s CLEAN D.C. Act Passes House with Bipartisan Support,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Andrew S. Clyde,C001116,clyde.house.gov,clyde,https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde’s (GA-09) legislation, H.R. 5107, the Commonsense Law Enforcement and Accountability Now (CLEAN) in D.C. Act, passed the House of Representatives with bipartisan support by a vote of 233-190. The bill repeals the D.C. City Council’s Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Emergency Amendment Act of 2022. “For years, the D.C. City Council’s Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Emergency Amendment Act has prevented our men and women in blue from effectively protecting Americans in our nation’s capital, hindered the MPD’s ability to recruit and retain officers, and exacerbated Washington’s crime crisis,” said Clyde. “I’m incredibly pleased that my commonsense legislation to repeal this anti-police law passed with bipartisan support, and I look forward to a similar outcome in the Senate. By eliminating the D.C. Council’s misguided law, the CLEAN D.C. Act strengthens and codifies President Trump’s successful efforts to restore law and order in Washington. While Joe Biden foolishly vetoed my legislation in 2023, I look forward to advancing the CLEAN D.C. Act to President Trump’s desk for his signature to continue delivering on our shared goal of Making D.C. Safe Again.” “The D.C. Council’s ‘Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Act’ is an anti-police measure that led to more crime and violence in the District of Columbia by hindering the Metropolitan Police Department’s ability to do its job without retribution and stripping the tools officers need to keep themselves and D.C. safe. The CLEAN D.C. Act puts an end to the D.C. Council’s nonsensical bill, restores law and order to the nation’s capital, and ensures officers have the resources they need to protect Americans from harm. I applaud Rep. Clyde for leading the charge to boost the number of crime fighters in this city and keep violent criminals off the streets,” said House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Chairman James Comer. Prior to the vote, Rep. Clyde urged his colleagues to support his commonsense effort on the House floor: “Public safety should not be a partisan issue — it’s just plain common sense. I urge all my colleagues to support H.R. 5107 so we can codify the progress we’ve made under the Trump Administration to transform D.C. from a crime-ridden capital into a safe, free, and thriving city.” Watch his full remarks HERE. Bill text is available HERE. Background The D.C. Council first passed the emergency “police reform” bill in the wake of anti-police protests during the summer of 2020. In December 2022, the Council passed the Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Emergency Amendment Act of 2022 to codify the emergency reforms and enact additional policing provisions. The radical bill did not receive D.C. Mayor Bowser’s signature. In 2023, Rep. Clyde introduced legislation, H.J.Res. 42, to block the D.C. Council’s so-called Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Emergency Amendment Act of 2022. Then-Senator JD Vance (R-OH) led the companion bill in the Senate. While their bill to strike down this anti-police law passed both the House and Senate with bipartisan support, President Biden ultimately vetoed the resolution. The D.C. Council’s Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Amendment Act of 2022 weakens D.C. law enforcement by: Banning longstanding and proven police tactics. Stripping legal protections and due process rights for officers. Threatening police officer safety by authorizing public release of records. Imposing restrictions on policing protests and the use of non-lethal crowd control. Law enforcement leaders have warned that these provisions demoralize officers, worsen D.C.’s law enforcement staffing crisis, and embolden criminals. Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX).",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-rich-mccormick-introduces-medical-professional-access-act,Congressman Rich McCormick Introduces Medical Professional Access Act,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Richard McCormick,M001218,mccormick.house.gov,mccormick,https://mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Congressman Rich McCormick (GA-07) has introduced the Medical Professional Access Act, legislation designed to ensure fast, effective medical response during federally declared emergencies. The bill clarifies federal authority and expands license portability for health care professionals contracted by the federal government, allowing them to provide care across state lines without delay. During disasters, the rapid deployment of medical personnel is essential. However, state-by-state licensure can slow down critical aid. This bill leverages the Constitution's Supremacy Clause to prevent state restrictions from interfering with federally contracted medical professionals. Under the legislation, providers licensed under federal or state law may deliver services anywhere in the U.S., its territories, or D.C. when responding to a federally declared emergency or public health crisis. Key benefits include: 1. Improved Public Safety: Ensures qualified physicians can practice across state lines, preventing delays that jeopardize patient care. 2. Protecting Local Health Systems: Allows the federal government to bring in out-of-state medical professionals, reducing strain on local hospitals and preventing staffing shortages during disasters. ""As a physician and a Marine and Navy veteran who has served in combat zones, I understand the critical importance of rapid and effective medical response during emergencies,""said Congressman McCormick. ""This commonsense bill will save lives by allowing top medical professionals to provide care wherever it's needed most."" Congressman McCormick urges his colleagues to support this vital legislation and strengthen America's emergency response capacity.",1,2026-04-15T05:46:42Z,2026-04-15T05:48:27Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-cortez-masto-capito-warner-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-expand-access-to-alzheimers-screening,"Senators Collins, Cortez Masto, Capito, Warner Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Expand Access to Alzheimer’s Screening",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins—the founder and co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease—Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), and Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced the bipartisan Alzheimer’s Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act, a bill that would require the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to create a pathway to cover blood biomarker tests approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. The FDA approved the first blood-based biomarker test for use by primary care physicians earlier this year, but physicians could be hesitant to use the tests if they are not reimbursed by CMS. U.S. Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16) has introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. “Alzheimer’s is one of the greatest public health challenges of our time, affecting more than seven million Americans, including nearly 29,000 people in Maine. Early diagnosis is essential, yet too many patients continue to go undiagnosed until their symptoms become severe,” said Senator Collins, founder and co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease. “Our bipartisan ASAP Act would require Medicare to cover FDA-approved blood tests for Alzheimer’s, expanding access to earlier testing, and giving patients and their families more time to plan, seek support, and pursue the best options for care for their loved ones.” “My grandmother lived with Alzheimer’s disease for many years, so I know the pain and distress this illness can cause to patients and loved ones alike,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “The sooner this disease is detected, the sooner patients and their families can seek treatment and make plans for the future. I’ll never stop working across the aisle to ensure Nevada’s seniors have access to the health care they need.” “Alzheimer’s is a disease that has touched so many West Virginia families, including my own. While we are making breakthroughs in research and treatment, early screening and detection remain essential in improving outcomes and getting us closer to ending this devastating disease. That is why I am proud to help introduce the Alzheimer’s Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act, legislation that ensures patients have access to the early testing they need,” said Senator Capito. “My mother battled Alzheimer’s for a decade before her passing, and I saw firsthand just how devastating this disease is,” said Senator Warner, co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease. “By expanding access to early detection testing, this legislation would help thousands of patients and families in Virginia be pro-active with their care and treatment of Alzheimer’s.” Specifically, the ASAP Act would: Create the authority for CMS to cover FDA-approved blood-based dementia screening tests; and Maintain CMS’ authority to use an evidence-based process to determine coverage parameters for these new tests. The ASAP Act has been endorsed by the Alzheimer’s Association. “New blood tests that can detect Alzheimer’s are coming soon. We need legislative action now so people living with the disease can access them without delay,” said Robert Egge, chief public policy officer of the Alzheimer’s Association and president of the Alzheimer’s Impact Movement. “The ASAP Act makes that possible, removing barriers and opening the door to earlier care and better outcomes. We're grateful for the longstanding bipartisan commitment of these congressional champions and their leadership on this landmark legislation. Together, we can make this bipartisan bill deliver for the Alzheimer’s community.” Senator Collins has long led successful legislative efforts to advance Alzheimer’s research, prevention, and treatment. In the 118th Congress, there were 1,868 standalone health care bills introduced in both the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives. Of those bills, only 15 passed both chambers and were signed into law. U.S. Senator Susan Collins led or co-led 5 of those 15 bills to passage with strong bipartisan support, and 3 of those 5 bills dealt directly with brain health and Alzheimer’s: the National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA), the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act, and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act. The complete text of the legislation can be read here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D9681055-CCAE-4236-97C1-F7AF68D5706C,Rep. Austin Scott Applauds House Passage of H.R. 6019,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Representative Austin Scott (GA-08) today released the following statement applauding the passage of H.R. 6019: ""Included in the Senate’s version of the continuing resolution to reopen the government was a self-serving provision designed to enrich several sitting United States senators using taxpayer dollars. I condemned this provision in the Rules Committee and, before we voted to reopen the government and end a 43-day shutdown, introduced H.R. 6019, which will repeal the provision and ensure that it cannot be abused. While several of these senators have announced that they do not intend to sue the federal government, one continues to express his intent to do so, for tens of millions in taxpayer dollars. This is wrong, and it cannot be allowed to happen. I am grateful for House Republican leadership’s quick work to schedule a vote on H.R. 6019, and I call upon the Senate to immediately take up and pass this legislation. Americans are tired of politicians using their power to grow their own wealth. I am proud the House voted 426 - 0 to repeal this language and will continue working to ensure that Congress serves the American people, not the other way around,"" said Rep. Scott",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mccormick-secures-25-million-lake-lanier-water-quality-initiative,Congressman McCormick Secures $2.5 Million for Lake Lanier Water Quality Initiative to Address Nutrient Pollution,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Richard McCormick,M001218,mccormick.house.gov,mccormick,https://mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Rich McCormick announced that he has secured $2.5 million in community project funding for the Lake Lanier Water Quality Initiative, a regional effort to reduce nutrient pollution and protect the drinking water source for millions of Georgians. The project, led by the Georgia Water Planning and Policy Center in partnership with local governments and conservation districts, will focus on reducing excess phosphorus and nitrogen entering Lake Lanier from both agricultural and urban sources. These nutrients have contributed to harmful algal blooms and water quality challenges that threaten public health, wildlife, and the long-term reliability of the region’s water supply. “Lake Lanier is a lifeline for our Georgia communities,”said Congressman McCormick. “This funding allows us to take science-driven steps to reduce nutrient pollution, support our farmers and local partners, and ensure clean drinking water for the families who rely on it every day.” The announcement follows recent reporting on seasonal taste and odor issues affecting drinking water in metro Atlanta. While the water remains safe, the underlying conditions in Lake Lanier make regular monitoring and nutrient management increasingly important. With this funding, partners will implement best management practices, provide technical and financial assistance to landowners, enhance stormwater controls, and expand watershed monitoring to establish a long-term baseline for lake health. “This is a responsible investment in both our environment and our economy,”McCormick added. “Protecting Lake Lanier means protecting public health, recreation, and the future growth of our region.” ###",1,2026-04-05T05:34:57Z,2026-04-05T05:36:03Z https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7015,Congressman Allen Announces December Community Office Hours,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Rick W. Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,allen,https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) announced members of his staff will host Community Office Hours across Georgia’s 12th District during the month of December. During these events, members of Congressman Allen’s staff will be available to assist constituents with a variety of federal issues, including help navigating various federal agencies such as FEMA, Social Security, Veterans Affairs, Medicare, and others. Community Office Hours are a quarterly resource provided by Congressman Allen's staff designed to serve constituents closer to home. Congressman Allen himself will not be in attendance. After the announcement, Congressman Allen issued the following statement: ""I invite anyone seeking help with a federal issue to take advantage of the one-on-one services my office provides. If you need assistance dealing with a federal agency, our dedicated caseworkers stand ready to help you. Please visit my team during Community Office Hours in December or contact one of our district offices for more information."" See below for a list of Community Office Hours dates, times, and locations by county (excluding counties in which Congressman Allen has a permanent office): Burke County WHEN: Tuesday, December 9th from 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM WHERE: County Commission Boardroom, Burke County Courthouse 111 E. 6th Street Waynesboro, GA 30830 Candler County WHEN: Tuesday, December 2nd from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM WHERE: Metter City Hall 49 S. Rountree Street Metter, GA 30439 Columbia County WHEN: Wednesday, December 10th from 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM WHERE: Grovetown City Hall 103 Old Wrightsboro Road Grovetown, GA 30813 Effingham County WHEN: Thursday, December 4th from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM WHERE: Effingham County Chamber of Commerce 712 N. Laurel Street, Suite 200 Springfield, GA 31329 Emanuel County WHEN: Wednesday, December 3rd from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM WHERE: Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce 102 S. Main Street Swainsboro, GA 30401 Evans County WHEN: Tuesday, December 2nd from 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM WHERE: Claxton-Evans County Chamber of Commerce 302 W. Railroad Street Claxton, Georgia 30417 Glascock County WHEN: Monday, December 8th from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM WHERE: Family Connections & Communities in School 370 W. Main Street Gibson, GA 30810 Jefferson County WHEN: Tuesday, December 9th from 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM WHERE: Community Club House 101 McNair Street Wrens, GA 30833 Jenkins County WHEN: Wednesday, December 3rd from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM WHERE: Jenkins County Chamber of Commerce 548 Cotton Avenue Millen, GA 30442 Johnson County WHEN: Monday, December 15th from 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM WHERE: Wrightsville City Hall 8647 S. Marcus Street Wrightsville, GA 31096 Lincoln County WHEN: Wednesday, December 10th from 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM WHERE: Lincoln County Courthouse 210 Humphrey Street Lincolnton, GA 30817 McDuffie County WHEN: Thursday, December 4th from 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM WHERE: Thomson-McDuffie Administrative Building 210 Railroad Street Thomson, GA 30824 Montgomery County WHEN: Monday, December 8th from 10:45 AM – 12:15 PM WHERE: Montgomery County Courthouse 400 S. Railroad Avenue Mount Vernon, GA 30445 Screven County WHEN: Wednesday, December 3rd from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM WHERE: Screven County Courthouse, Commission Boardroom 216 Mims Road Sylvania, GA 30467 Tattnall County WHEN: Tuesday, December 2nd from 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM WHERE: Glennville Welcome Center/Chamber of Commerce 136 S. Veterans Boulevard Glennville, GA 30427 Treutlen County WHEN: Monday, December 8th from 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM WHERE: Treutlen County Commissioners’ Office 1830 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Soperton, GA 30457 Warren County WHEN: Wednesday, December 3rd from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM WHERE: Warren County Chamber of Commerce 46 S. Norwood Street Warrenton, GA 30828 Washington County WHEN: Wednesday, December 3rd from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM WHERE: Community Health Care System 220 Morningside Drive Sandersville, GA 31082 Wheeler County WHEN: Monday, December 8th from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM WHERE: Alamo City Hall 7 W. Main Street Alamo, GA 30411 Wilkes County WHEN: Thursday, December 11th from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM WHERE: Washington-Wilkes Chamber of Commerce 26 West Square Washington, GA 30673",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16008,Carter statement on Trump Administration approving Georgia broadband deployment grant,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today released the following statement after the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced approval of the state of Georgia’s five-year Broadband Equity and Deployment (BEAD) program allocation, totaling $1.31 billion for statewide broadband expansion and quality improvements: “I’m proud to have supported Georgia’s application for this critical grant, and I applaud the Trump Administration for approving it today. Internet access is no longer a luxury; it is part of everyday life. We must ensure that the number one state in the nation to do business has world-class broadband connectivity to accelerate our economy and help our residents thrive.” BACKGROUND According to NTIA’s website, the BEAD Program is a $42.45 billion federal grant program that aims to connect every American to high-speed internet by funding partnerships to build infrastructure. States and territories can use their allocated funds for these eligible uses:",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16009,Carter votes to release Epstein files,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today released the following statement after voting yea on the House-passed bill to direct the Department of Justice to publicly release all documents and files related to Jeffrey Epstein: “I’ve said all along that this is a Democrat distraction, designed to deflect from the failure of the Ossoff-Schumer Shutdown. While these games are beneath Congress, it is the Democrats– not Republicans – that have something to hide, and President Trump is leading with full transparency to ensure the American people learn the truth. It’s time to move past this and get back to building on the success of the Working Families Tax Cuts, ensuring that life is affordable again for the American people.”",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/omb-releases-nearly-43-million-for-cigie-following-push-by-senators-collins-grassley,"OMB Releases Nearly $4.3 Million for CIGIE Following Push by Senators Collins, Grassley",2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chairs of the U.S. Senate Committees on Appropriations and Judiciary, respectively, welcomed the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) decision to apportion $4,287,000 for the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE). This decision will ensure that CIGIE can operate through January 30, consistent with the current Continuing Resolution. OMB will simultaneously be conducting a programmatic review of CIGIE’s activities. OMB’s actions follow Senators Collins and Grassley’s recent letter to OMB Director Russell Vought urging the prompt release of funding for CIGIE and the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC), and Grassley’s call last year for CIGIE to clarify its reporting of spending records. “We are pleased that following our continued outreach, OMB is releasing the funding that Congress provided for CIGIE to continue its vital work,” said Senators Collins and Grassley. “This action, building on OMB’s earlier decision to release funding for PRAC, ensures that these important oversight entities can remain focused on delivering the accountability American taxpayers deserve. Our oversight of the Administration’s actions, and CIGIE’s work, will continue.” Senators Collins and Grassley were leading proponents of the Inspector General Reform Act of 2008, which established CIGIE to address integrity, economy, and effectiveness issues that transcend government agencies and to increase the professionalism and effectiveness of inspectors general (IG) personnel by helping to establish well-trained and highly skilled IG office workforces. Click HERE to read the Senators’ letter to OMB. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-applauds-federal-approval-of-484-million-maine-rural-broadband-grant-by-ntia,Senator Collins Applauds Federal Approval of $48.4 Million Maine Rural Broadband Grant by NTIA,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins applauded the announcement that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved Maine’s plan to move forward with $48.4 million to extend high-speed internet service to 21,880 homes and businesses across the state. Senator Collins co-authored the broadband section of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) with Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and worked closely with the Secretary of Commerce to negotiate the provisions. The IIJA includes $65 billion to expand access to broadband in communities nationwide. The largest broadband program in the infrastructure bill is the BEAD Program, which provides $42.45 billion to expand high-speed internet access across the country. The State of Maine will receive $272 million of these funds. Today’s funding comes from the BEAD program. “Access to high-speed Internet is critical to the economy of rural communities, which is why I have long championed expanding access to broadband across Maine,” said Senator Collins. “From spurring job creation to supporting telemedicine and education, the Internet unlocks almost endless opportunities. I co-authored the broadband section of the IIJA to help bridge the digital divide between rural and urban areas, and I am pleased that this funding will help our state make historic investments to extend its high-speed network to ensure that thousands of additional Mainers have a reliable connection to their loved ones, co-workers, schools, and medical services.” Maine’s proposal is among the first in the country to receive NTIA approval. Following NTIA’s 2025 restructuring of the Program, the “Benefit of the Bargain” application round produced requests totaling $48.4 million in federal funds paired with $109 million in private investment, resulting in Maine having one of the lowest average costs per location nationwide. Projects approved through the BEAD proposal include Maine-based and national providers using a range of technologies, such as fiber, hybrid fiber-coax, and low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite service. Senator Collins continues to work with the Maine Connectivity Authority, Maine’s internet service providers, the NTIA, and state and local leaders to ensure full implementation of the BEAD Program and to advance the state’s long-term broadband goals. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-statement-on-senate-approval-to-release-the-epstein-files,Senator Collins’ Statement on Senate Approval to Release the Epstein Files,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins released the following statement after the U.S. Senate unanimously approved legislation to release the Epstein files: “I support the release of the Epstein files. This is an important step for the survivors of these heinous crimes. The legislation allows for appropriate redactions to be made to ensure that the identities of the victims and their other personal information are protected,” said Senator Collins. “In July, I supported an amendment that would facilitate the release of these files during a markup I chaired in the Senate Appropriations Committee. The amendment was approved unanimously by the Committee. I am glad the full Senate could unite for this vote for the victims of Mr. Epstein.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16007,Carter calls for review of junior colleges allowing men to compete in women’s sports,2025-11-17,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi and U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon urging an immediate review of the National Junior College Athletic Association’s (NJCAA), California Community College Athletic Association’s (CCCAA), and Northwest Athletic Conference’s (NWAC) policies that allow biological males to compete in women’s sports. In the letter, Rep. Carter writes: “As recently reported by The Washington Times, junior colleges ‘still welcome transgender athletes’ in women’s divisions…These policies raise substantial concerns regarding fairness, safety, and equal athletic opportunity for women.” Rep. Carter continues: “This permissive approach appears inconsistent with Title IX’s requirement that federally funded institutions protect equal opportunities for female athletes… Protecting the integrity of women’s sports is a core civil rights obligation. I urge the [Department of Justice and Department of Education] to act promptly.” Read the full letter here.",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://collins.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-collins-applauds-trump-administrations-action-provide-clarity-waters,Rep. Collins Applauds Trump Administration's Action to Provide Clarity on Waters of the United States,2025-11-17,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,collins.house.gov,mikecollins,https://collins.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Representative Mike Collins (GA-10) released the following statement commending the Trump administration's proposed rule to Waters of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act that brings regulatory clarity to farmers, landowners, and states that have been subjected to overreaching federal interference by the Biden administration's Environmental Protection Agency. “The definition of a ‘water of the United States’ has been weaponized by federal agencies to infringe on the property rights of farmers, ranchers, small business owners, and landowners for far too long. The announcement by President Trump and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin will end the abuse of power by Washington bureaucrats and restore freedom to landowners across the country,"" said House Transportation and Infrastructure Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee Chairman Mike Collins. ""The era of overregulation is over, and we are lucky to have a president that prioritizes freedom, growth, and prosperity instead of government control.” ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:31:22Z https://jack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-brian-jack-welcomes-united-states-secretary-housing-and-urban,Congressman Brian Jack Welcomes United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner to Pike County,2025-11-16,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Brian Jack,J000311,jack.house.gov,jack,https://jack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Regan Hinson PIKE COUNTY, GA — Today, Congressman Brian Jack welcomed the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner to Pike County. Together, they attended services at Christ Chapel and Harvest Time Revival Church in Zebulon. ""I pledged to bring America's leaders to our communities to showcase the incredible things happening across Georgia's 3rd Congressional District,"" said Congressman Jack. ""I'm honored to keep that promise, and we're already planning more visits in the coming months."" During each service, Secretary Turner, a former NFL player, shared his testament of faith, and his inspirational journey from a difficult childhood to professional football, to President Trump’s cabinet. Secretary Turner’s visit marks the 7th visit by a member of President Trump’s Cabinet to Georgia’s 3rd Congressional District this year. Previous Presidential Cabinet Visits to Georgia's 3rd Congressional District in 2025: August 21, 2025 – Congressman Jack welcomed Vice President JD Vance, Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency Lee Zeldin, and Administrator of the Small Business Administration Kelly Loeffler to Peachtree City in Fayette County, where they promoted the passage and enactment of H.R. 1 - One Big Beautiful Bill Act at a local factory. June 28, 2025 – Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins visited EchoPark Speedway in Henry County for the Quaker State 400. May 2, 2025 – Congressman Jack welcomed Secretary of Energy Chris Wright to Spalding County to celebrate the passage and enactment of legislation led by Congressman Jack that repealed a Biden-era regulation, saving hundreds of jobs at a local water heater company. April 17, 2025 – Congressman Jack welcomed Administrator of the Small Business Administration Kelly Loeffler to Troup County, where they toured small businesses, hosted a roundtable discussion with local community leaders, and visited two restaurants. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/at-the-urging-of-senator-collins-department-of-labor-reverses-decision-to-halt-enrollment-at-maine-job-corps-centers,"At the Urging of Senator Collins, Department of Labor Reverses Decision to Halt Enrollment at Maine Job Corps Centers",2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins tonight announced that the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has reversed its decision to halt enrollment of new students at Maine’s two Job Corps Centers, the Loring Job Corps Center and the Penobscot Job Corps Center. New enrollments had been halted since April, and the Administration had announced plans to no longer fund the Job Corps program. At the repeated urging of Senator Collins, DOL has reversed its decision, and Job Corps enrollments in the State of Maine will reopen. “I am so glad that the two Job Corps Centers in Maine—the Loring Job Corps Center and the Penobscot Job Corps Center—are no longer facing closure. In May, I urged Secretary Chavez-DeRemer to reverse the Administration’s decision to halt enrollments and told her how important these centers have been to students like Adais Viruet-Torres, who credits the Loring Job Corps Center with changing her life. I will always advocate for these centers that do so much good in Maine and across the country for vulnerable young people,” said Senator Collins. At an Appropriations subcommittee hearing in May, Senator Collins urged Labor Secretary Lori Chavez DeRemer to resume enrollment at Maine’s two Job Corps centers and to reverse the Department’s proposed elimination of the Job Corps program, and shared the story of Adais Viruet-Torres, a graduate of the Loring Job Corps Center and Husson University who overcame homelessness and now works as a nurse practitioner. Click HERE to download video of Senator Collins sharing Adais’ story and HERE to download photos of Senator Collins and Adais. In April, Senator Collins sent a letter to Secretary Chavez-DeRemer urging DOL to lift the halt on enrollment at Loring Job Corps Center and Penobscot Job Corps Center. As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins advanced $1.8 billion for Job Corps in the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, which passed the Appropriations Committee by a wide bipartisan margin and now awaits consideration by the full Senate. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-joins-bipartisan-push-for-release-of-visas-to-support-small-businesses,Senator Collins Joins Bipartisan Push for Release of Visas to Support Small Businesses,2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins joined a bipartisan push led by Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) for the release of supplemental H-2B seasonal employment visas to support small businesses across the United States. In their letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer the group called on the Administration to release the maximum allowable number of additional H-2B visas for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. H-2B visas fill workforce needs for American small businesses that are unable to hire enough American workers to fill the temporary, seasonal positions, and bipartisan research shows employing these workers boosts wages across the board. As required by law, employers must first make a concerted effort to hire American workers to fill open positions; when the local workforce is insufficient, the H-2B visa program is seen as a necessary tool to support local economies. With Maine continuing to experience a shortage of seasonal and temporary employees, these nonimmigrant visas provide a lifeline for the economy and ensure small businesses can meet the demand for their products and services. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce estimates that for every 100 open jobs in Maine, there are only 42 available workers. “These visas will allow employers to supplement their U.S. workforce to keep their businesses open, as well as provide additional certainty regarding their workforce planning decisions in the coming months,” the Senators wrote. “Chronic labor shortages—faced by seasonal U.S. employers throughout the nation’s history—have been exacerbated by the post-pandemic evolution of the American workforce. As this need grows, so does the pressure on U.S. workers, whose employers’ workforce needs cannot be met with American workers alone,” they continued. “The H-2B program places requirements on employers to recruit U.S. workers, who are intentionally prioritized by the program and receive demonstrated, positive impacts from their seasonal colleagues. In fact, a 2020 Government Accountability Office report concluded that ‘counties with H-2B employers generally had lower unemployment rates and higher average weekly wages than counties that do not have any H-2B employers.’ Issuing the extra discretionary H-2B visas in a timely manner will help alleviate these workforce shortages and, in doing so, will help create and sustain the jobs of American workers who rely on the H-2B workers to support their duties during their peak seasons,” the Senators concluded. In addition to Senators Collins, King and Rounds, the letter was signed by by Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Tim Scott (R-SC), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Michael Crapo (R-ID), Susan Collins (R-ME), John Barrasso (R-WY), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Steve Daines (R-MT), Jerry Moran (R-KS), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), John Thune (R-SD), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Peter Welch (D-VT), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Jim Risch (R-ID), and Maria Cantwell (D-WA). “The H-2B worker program is vital resource for hotel owners and operators to meet seasonal demands, while also supporting local employment. Each H-2B worker supports about three to five local U.S. jobs. With major events like the World Cup and America 250 on the horizon, we urge the Department of Homeland Security to release supplemental visas immediately so hotels can plan for the influx of travel demand and show the world what American hospitality looks like,” said American Hotel & Lodging President & CEO Rosanna Maietta. The complete text the letter can be read here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-reed-murkowski-lead-senate-group-urging-hhs-to-swiftly-release-liheap-home-heating-aid,"Senators Collins, Reed, Murkowski Lead Senate Group Urging HHS to Swiftly Release LIHEAP Home Heating Aid",2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – With the federal government shutdown now over and utility rates continuing to rise, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Jack Reed (D-RI), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) are leading a bipartisan group of 31 Senators, including Senator Angus King, calling on the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as swiftly and at the highest level possible. Currently, $4 billion in federal LIHEAP dollars have yet to be distributed for this fiscal year. “As Congress works to finalize the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bill for the Department of Health and Human Services, we urge you to immediately release the highest amount of Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding available under the Continuing Resolution,” the Senators wrote. “As state agencies and tribes activate their LIHEAP programs for the coming winter, it is crucial that they have the resources on hand to help low-income households and seniors as soon as possible. As such, we request that you quickly release LIHEAP funds at the highest level possible, so that low-income households do not have to choose between paying for heat and affording other necessities like food or medicine. We look forward to working with you on this critical program and thank you for your attention to our concerns and those of our constituents,” the Senators concluded. According to a new forecast from the National Energy Assistance Directors Association, home heating costs are estimated to rise nearly 8 percent over last winter on average, with costs for heating with electricity forecasted to increase even higher – to 10 percent above last year. Nationwide, an estimated 6.2 million households received assistance with heating and cooling costs through LIHEAP over the last year. In Maine, households received $41.6 million in Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 LIHEAP funding. States and tribes typically receive their LIHEAP allocations from HHS by early November. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources. While eligibility varies by state, most applicants must have a household income below 150 percent of the federal poverty guideline or 60 percent of the state median income. LIHEAP applications are now open for all income-eligible households. Senior citizens and those receiving Social Security Disability or SSI benefits are encouraged to apply as early as possible, but applications will be open to everyone through spring of 2026 — or until the funding is exhausted. To find your state agency, visit the U.S. Department of Energy LIHEAP State Map of Contacts. Senators Collins, Reed, and Murkowski have led successful bipartisan efforts to protect and increase funding for LIHEAP. The Senate’s Labor-HHS-Education and Related Agencies Appropriations bill for FY 2026 would provide a $20 million increase for LIHEAP to $4.045 billion. In addition to Senators Collins, Reed, Murkowski, and King, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) Richard Durbin (D-IL) Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The complete text of the letter can be read here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/nearly-35-million-for-maine-projects-secured-by-senator-collins-in-funding-bills,Nearly $35 Million for Maine Projects Secured By Senator Collins in Funding Bills,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, secured nearly $35 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for 20 projects throughout Maine. The funding was included in the legislation she coauthored to end the government shutdown. “From supporting Maine’s first responders, law enforcement, and servicemembers to increasing access to educational opportunities and generating economic development, these targeted investments will provide real and direct benefits to communities throughout our state,” said Senator Collins. “As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I fought hard to ensure this important funding was included in the final funding bills.” Projects Secured by Senator Collins: $9 million for projects at the Bangor Air National Guard Base and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. More than $12 million for six fire stations in Swan’s Island, St. Albans, Belgrade, Marshfield, Thomaston, and St. Agatha. $643,000 for the Holden Police Department to construct a garage named in honor of the late Holden Chief of Police Chris Greeley. More than $8.5 million for six community centers and municipal facilities in Littleton, Searsmont, Penobscot, Northport, Westfield, and Solon. $750,000 for the A.B. Ricker Memorial Library in Poland. More than $1.3 million for the University of Maine System. More than $1.5 million for the Owls Head Transportation Museum’s STEM Community Center. More Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 projects secured by Senator Collins in these bills can be found HERE. In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6998,Congressman Rick Allen Votes to Reopen the Federal Government,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Rick W. Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,allen,https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Tonight, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5371, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026. This legislation includes a continuing resolution (CR) that would extend current funding levels through January 30, 2026, along with three Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills covering the Departments of Agriculture and Veterans Affairs, as well as legislative operations. After voting in support of the bill, Congressman Allen issued the following statement: ""It is clear that this shutdown was about nothing more than politics. Democrats could have cut this deal over 40 days ago. Instead, they repeatedly voted to hold the government hostage—using families, service members, federal workers, and veterans as political 'leverage' in the longest government shutdown in American history. ""After six weeks of obstruction, I am pleased that a handful of Senate Democrats finally came to their senses and listened to millions of hardworking Americans. Yet, the Chuck Schumer-created political charade dragged on for far too long with the support of Georgia's two Senators and nearly every House Democrat—causing untold pain and lasting consequences. President Trump will soon sign the bill to officially turn the page on this national nightmare and reopen the federal government."" BACKGROUND: On September 19, 2025, with Congressman Allen's support, the House of Representatives passed a bipartisan, seven-week funding extension to keep the federal government open. Senate Democrats, including Georgia Senators Ossoff and Warnock, blocked this commonsense CR for over 40 days, voting repeatedly to keep the federal government shut down. On Monday evening, the Senate passed an amended House CR by a vote of 60-40, clearing the way for the House to reconsider the bill and send it to President Trump's desk for signature.",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15999,Carter statement on House voting to reopen the government,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today voted in favor of a bill to reopen the government, sending it to President Trump’s desk for his signature. The bipartisan deal funds the government through January 30th, with three funding bills – Agriculture-FDA, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction-Veterans Affairs – running through Fiscal Year 2026. “Our long national nightmare is finally coming to an end. For more than 43 days, Chuck Schumer, Jon Ossoff, and the Democrats blackmailed the American people for political leverage, holding SNAP and WIC, federal worker pay, air travel, and our troops hostage. Still, the vast majority of Democrats – including both of Georgia’s senators – rejected the bipartisan proposal to turn our lights back on, forcing families to starve and workers to go without pay in exchange for absolutely nothing. They don’t care about your health care, they care about pleasing the radical left and Chuck Schumer,” said Rep. Carter. The funding bill included $534.3 million supporting projects throughout the state of Georgia. Georgia's entire Democrat delegation, including both Senators Jon Ossoff (D-GA) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA), voted against this funding and final passage of the bill. “A vote against this bill is a vote against Georgia, something our senators have no problem doing time and time again. Their legacy will be one of mass starvation and chaos, literally ripping food from children in an effort to win reelection,” said Rep. Carter. “While it will take weeks or months for our nation to fully recover from Democrats’ political games, I’m proud to have cast my vote in favor of this legislation, which ensures that the American people are taken care of.”",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=16000,Carter delivers $5 million to Tybee Island for new fire station,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today delivered $5 million in federal funding for the City of Tybee Island to construct a new fire station as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The bill now heads to President Trump’s desk, where it is expected to be signed into law. Both Senators Jon Ossoff (D-GA) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) voted against this funding. “Tybee Island’s current fire station does not meet the needs of the city’s world-class firefighters, EMS providers, and marine rescuers. This necessary funding will make Tybee Island safer and ensure that those charged with protecting our community have the tools they need to do so effectively,” said Rep. Carter. “On behalf of the City of Tybee Island, thank you, Representative Carter, for securing $5 million in federal funding for the city’s new fire station. This critical investment will ensure our first responders can continue dispatching land- and marine-based fire and rescue operations from a modern, resilient facility,” said Mayor Brian West.",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/25-million-for-maine-air-national-guard-secured-by-senator-collins-in-funding-bill,$2.5 Million for Maine Air National Guard Secured by Senator Collins in Funding Bill,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The funding now heads to the President to be signed into law Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured $2.5 million in Congressionally Directed Spending to support the planning and design of a new aircraft maintenance and ground equipment facility for the Maine Air National Guard. The projects in this bill were approved as part of the negotiation that Senator Collins led to reopen the federal government. This funding was included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill. The legislation, which was officially approved by the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives, will now be signed into law by the President. “From assisting our communities when disaster strikes to supporting our national defense, the brave men and women of the Maine National Guard are always ready to serve,” said Senator Collins. “As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I worked hard to secure this funding to enhance the Maine Guard’s readiness while ensuring modern and safe working environments and reducing maintenance costs.” “Maine National Guard is grateful for Senator Collins continued support and efforts to pursue proposed funding for a new maintenance and equipment facility at the Bangor Air National Guard Base,” said Brigadier General Diane Dunn, the Adjutant General of the Maine National Guard. “The project will benefit the Maine National Guard, the state, and the nation. A modernized facility will help ensure that our Maineiacs are equipped and ready to conduct refueling operations for years to come. Our tankers are critical to our country’s defense strategy. We are excited that is one step closer to approval.” Currently, flightline maintenance and ground equipment maintenance operate out of two separate and undersized facilities. This project will combine operations under one right-sized facility for the 101st Air Refueling Wing in Bangor, helping to reduce response times. Earlier this year, Senator Collins secured $50 million for the Maine Air National Guard to construct a new hangar in Bangor. This funding was included in the Fiscal Year 2025 full-year continuing resolution. In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/643000-for-holden-police-department-garage-secured-by-senator-collins-in-funding-bill,"$643,000 for Holden Police Department Garage Secured by Senator Collins in Funding Bill",2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The funding now heads to the President to be signed into law Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured $643,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for the Holden Police Department in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration Appropriations bill. The projects in this bill were approved as part of the negotiation that Senator Collins led to reopen the federal government. The legislation, which was officially approved by the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives, will now be signed into law by the President. “Ensuring that Maine’s finest and bravest have modern facilities is essential to the delivery of efficient law enforcement,” said Senator Collins. “This funding will help to improve public safety efforts and better protect Holden and the surrounding communities, while also honoring the life of an extraordinary law enforcement official and community leader — Police Chief Chris Greeley. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I worked hard to secure this important funding.” “The Town of Holden extends its sincere gratitude to our Congressional leadership for their dedication to supporting local governments and investing in infrastructure that directly benefits small towns like Holden. We are especially thankful for the funding directed toward constructing a new garage for the Holden Police Department and making vital infrastructure upgrades that will strengthen our community for years to come,” said Benjamin Breadmore, Holden Town Manager. This funding will support the construction of a garage for police vehicles and related equipment. The Holden Police Department intends to name the building in honor of the late Holden Chief of Police Chris Greeley. In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/65-million-for-portsmouth-naval-shipyard-secured-by-senator-collins-in-funding-bill,$6.5 Million for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Secured by Senator Collins in Funding Bill,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The funding now heads to the President to be signed into law Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured $6,500,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending to support the necessary design and reconfiguration work to construct a new security facility at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY) in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. The projects in this bill were approved as part of the negotiation that Senator Collins led to reopen the federal government. The legislation, which was officially approved by the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives, will now be signed into law by the President. “Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is the gold standard for repairing, retrofitting, and refueling our nation’s nuclear submarines. Its talented workforce helps maintain our Navy's fleet and our national security, while the Shipyard’s fire department and first responders work long hours to ensure their safety,” said Senator Collins. “This new, consolidated facility will help to improve response times, mitigate hazards, and provide the PNSY fire department with an adequate space to work, train, and live. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I worked hard to secure this important funding.” “The members of the Shipyard Professional Fire Fighters, IAFF Local F-123 are incredibly grateful and fully support Senator Collins and her hard work on our behalf to advance funding for a new firehouse,” said Kyle Mosher, President Shipyard Professional Fire Fighters, IAFF Local F-123. “This project is long overdue as our current quarters, though historic, no longer meet the day-to-day needs of a modern fire department. Federal Firefighters work a grueling 72-hour work week and, specifically here at the Shipyard, we work in 48 continuous hour shifts, so the firehouse, like all firefighters, is our home away from home.” Constructed in the 1800s, the current facility that houses the PNSY fire department is poorly configured and is at maximum capacity. The Shipyard fire department responds to an average of 2,000 calls a year and assists the surrounding communities. This funding would support the planning and design of a renovated and expanded facility to consolidate the Shipyard’s security, police, NCIS, and fire departments. In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/more-than-12-million-for-maine-fire-stations-and-emergency-services-secured-by-senator-collins-in-funding-bills,More Than $12 Million for Maine Fire Stations and Emergency Services Secured by Senator Collins in Funding Bills,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The funding now heads to the President to be signed into law Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured $12,265,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for fire stations and emergency services throughout Maine in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration Appropriations bill. The projects in this bill were approved as part of the negotiation that Senator Collins led to reopen the federal government. The legislation, which was officially approved by the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives, will now be signed into law by the President. “Every day, first responders selflessly put their lives on the line to serve communities throughout Maine,” said Senator Collins. “This funding will help to ensure that Maine’s fire fighters and emergency response professionals have the adequate facilities needed to do their jobs as effectively and safely as possible. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I worked hard to secure this important funding.” Funding secured by Senator Collins for Maine fire stations and emergency services in the FY 2026 Agriculture Appropriations bill is as follows: Belgrade Fire and Rescue Station Recipient: Town of Belgrade Project Location: Belgrade, ME Amount Requested: $4,700,000 Project Purpose: To construct a fire and rescue station. Marshfield Fire Station Recipient: Marshfield Volunteer Fire Department Project Location: Marshfield, ME Amount Requested: $756,000 Project Purpose: To construct a fire station. St. Agatha Fire Station Recipient: Town of St. Agatha Project Location: St. Agatha, ME Amount Requested: $345,000 Project Purpose: To expand the fire station. St. Albans Fire Station Recipient: Town of St. Albans Project Location: St. Albans, ME Amount Requested: $1,520,000 Project Purpose: To construct a fire station. Swan’s Island Fire and Ambulance Station Recipient: Town of Swan’s Island Project Location: Swan’s Island, ME Amount Requested: $1,444,000 Project Purpose: To expand the fire and ambulance station. Thomaston Fire and EMS Facility Recipient: Town of Thomaston Project Location: Thomaston, ME Amount Requested: $3,500,000 Project Purpose: To construct a fire and EMS facility. In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/more-than-13-million-for-umaine-system-secured-by-senator-collins-in-funding-bills,More Than $1.3 Million for UMaine System Secured by Senator Collins in Funding Bills,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The funding now heads to the President to be signed into law Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured $1.35 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for the University of Maine (UMaine) System in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration Appropriations bill. The projects in this bill were approved as part of the negotiation that Senator Collins led to reopen the federal government. The legislation, which was officially approved by the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives, will now be signed into law by the President. “The brilliant faculty and students at Maine's public universities and at the flagship university are conducting cutting-edge research and making promising discoveries in a wide variety of fields,” said Senator Collins. “As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I worked hard to secure this funding to support these exciting projects across the UMaine System that will promote workforce development, support important research, and help to prepare the next generation of leaders.” “These investments—made possible through Senator Collins’ advocacy—will expand research opportunities, improve infrastructure, and support collaborative solutions that strengthen Maine’s economy and communities,” said Joan Ferrini-Mundy, Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation for the UMaine System. “Located at the heart of our campus, the Reynolds Center is a hub of learning and connection. This investment will expand its role as a space for students to grow academically and socially — strengthening our commitment to the Downeast community,” said Megan Walsh, Dean and Campus Director, UMaine Machias. “The spruce budworm is one of the most significant threats to Maine’s forest economy, and proactive research is essential to protecting this vital resource,” said Dr. Adam Daigneault, Associate Professor of Forest Policy and Economics at the University of Maine. “With this support, UMaine can expand its leadership in forest health research, helping landowners, communities, and the forest products industry prepare for and respond to future outbreaks. We are incredibly thankful for Senator Collins’ investment in the resilience of Maine’s forests.” Funding secured by Senator Collins for the UMaine System in the FY 2026 Agriculture Appropriations bills is as follows: University of Maine Forest Health Lab Recipient: University of Maine System Project Location: Orono, ME Amount Requested: $600,000 Project Purpose: To support the construction of the University’s Forest Health Lab, which conducts spruce budworm research. University of Maine at Machias Early College Student Support Center Recipient: University of Maine System Project Location: Machias, ME Amount Requested: $750,000 Project Purpose: To renovate a facility on campus to support early college students. In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/more-than-15-million-for-owls-head-transportation-museum-secured-by-senator-collins-in-funding-bill,More than $1.5 Million for Owls Head Transportation Museum Secured by Senator Collins in Funding Bill,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The funding now heads to the President to be signed into law Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured $1,533,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for the Owls Head Transportation Museum’s (OHTM) STEM Community Center in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration Appropriations bill. The projects in this bill were approved as part of the negotiation that Senator Collins led to reopen the federal government. The legislation, which was officially approved by the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives, will now be signed into law by the President. “STEM programs are fundamental for students to explore their interests, ignite creativity, and learn about possible future career options,” said Senator Collins. “This funding will help to expand access to the valuable STEM education programs offered at Owls Head Transportation Museum for students throughout the state. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I worked hard to secure this important funding.” “The Owls Head Transportation Museum is grateful to Senator Collins for her support of our STEM Community Center,” said John Bottero, Executive Director of OHTM. “Our operational world-class historic collection is the foundational tool, acting as a backdrop for STEM learning. OHTM’s programs will inspire and equip Maine students to become future innovators and change-makers in our communities—leveling the playing field for future workforce opportunities.” This funding will support the construction of a STEM Community Center, aimed at expanding STEM education opportunities for all Maine students, both on site and remotely. The Center will include a new exhibit hall, classroom spaces, a research library, and community event spaces. In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending.? Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024.? As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities.?? ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/nearly-9-million-for-community-centers-and-municipal-buildings-secured-by-senator-collins-in-funding-bill,Nearly $9 Million for Community Centers and Municipal Buildings Secured by Senator Collins in Funding Bill,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The funding now heads to the President to be signed into law Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured $8,694,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for community centers and municipal buildings throughout Maine in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration Appropriations bill. The projects in this bill were approved as part of the negotiation that Senator Collins led to reopen the federal government. The legislation, which was officially approved by the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives, will now be signed into law by the President. “Community centers and municipal facilities house important services for residents throughout Maine,” said Senator Collins. “This funding will support upgrades and renovations to facilities that provide everything from emergency shelters to town offices and community meeting spaces. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I worked hard to secure this important funding.” Funding secured by Senator Collins for Maine community centers and municipal buildings in the FY 2026 Agriculture bills is as follows: Littleton Town Garage Recipient: Town of Littleton Project Location: Littleton, ME Amount Requested: $896,000 Project Purpose: To construct a garage for municipal vehicles and equipment. Northport Community Center and Town Office Recipient: Town of Northport Project Location: Northport, ME Amount Requested: $2,325,000 Project Purpose: To construct a facility to consolidate the town office and community center, which would also serve as an emergency shelter. Penobscot Storage Facility Recipient: Town of Penobscot Project Location: Penobscot, ME Amount Requested: $1,429,000 Project Purpose: To relocate the salt and sand storage facility. Searsmont Storage Facility Recipient: Town of Searsmont Project Location: Searsmont, ME Amount Requested: $970,000 Project Purpose: To construct a salt and sand storage facility. Town of Solon Public Works and Garage Recipient: Town of Solon Project Location: Solon, ME Amount Requested: $1,500,000 Project Purpose: To construct a public works and transportation garage. Westfield Town Garage Recipient: Town of Westfield Project Location: Westfield, ME Amount Requested: $1,574,000 Project Purpose: To construct a town garage. In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-legislation-to-reopen-government-to-be-signed-into-law,Senator Collins’ Legislation to Reopen Government to be Signed into Law,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Legislation includes significant wins for Maine Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation coauthored by U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, to reopen government by a vote of 222 to 209. The legislation, which includes a continuing resolution and three full-year Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations bills, passed the U.S. Senate on Monday. Senator Collins led negotiations between Republicans and Democrats in the Senate and the House of Representatives, as well as members of the Administration, to reach the deal that now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. The continuing resolution will reopen government immediately, extend funding through January 30th, and provide back pay to all federal workers, including those who have been working without pay or furloughed. The measure includes the final FY 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA); Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Related Agencies; and Legislative Branch appropriations bills. This three-bill package, which originally passed the Senate on August 1st with overwhelming bipartisan support, will make full-year appropriations available for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs through September 30th, 2026. Since the beginning of the shutdown, Senator Collins has been urging for the three appropriations bills to be attached to the continuing resolution to reopen government. “This short-term continuing resolution will reopen government immediately, provide back pay to all federal workers, and fund important federal programs on which many Americans rely. The MilCon-VA bill will provide significant support for Maine’s veterans, shipbuilding workforce, and National Guard. By assisting farmers and investing in critical agricultural research and nutrition programs, the Agriculture, Rural Development, and FDA bill will support rural communities throughout the state,” said Senator Collins. “As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I worked hard on this legislation that will finally put an end to this unnecessary and harmful government shutdown, as well as provide full-year funding to important programs like SNAP and WIC.” MilCon-VA Bill Highlights: Local Projects: $9 million for Congressionally Directed Spending projects that support the Maine National Guard and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Power Reliability & Water Resiliency Upgrades: Nearly $228 million for the first increment of Power Reliability & Water Resilience Upgrades at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The project would increase reliability, resiliency, and capacity of electric and water utility systems that support nuclear-powered submarines and nuclear support facilities. Multi-Mission Drydock #1: Nearly $221 million for the sixth increment of the Multi-Mission Drydock #1 at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP): Report language on the SIOP emphasizing its importance and urging the Navy to prioritize the timely funding of public shipyard infrastructure. GI Bill Apprenticeship Program: Report language driving attention on the underutilization of apprenticeship and on-the-job training under the GI Bill. Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA Bill Highlights: Local Projects: More than $25 million for Congressionally Directed Spending projects in Maine, including more than $12 million for fire stations across the state. PFAS Research: $9 million, an increase of $2 million above the FY 2025 enacted level, for the Center of Excellence for PFAS solutions throughout Agricultural and Food Systems in conjunction with the University of Maine. Potato Research: Maintains full funding for the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s potato research programs. Potatoes in School Breakfast: Maintains provision that allows school food authorities to provide potatoes through the School Breakfast Program. Farm Loss: Includes language directing the Farm Services Agency to provide a report to the Committee on what factors are leading to agricultural production and farm loss in New England, and to include historical and projected data on acreage and crop types. Neurology Drug Program: $5 million for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Neurology Drug Program to support the development of policies and guidance to keep pace with emerging brain science. Nutrition: Fully funds nutrition assistance programs that support low-income women, children, and seniors. Links: Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agency Act, 2026 Legislative Branch Act, 2026 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-statement-on-her-legislation-to-end-the-government-shutdown,Senator Collins’ Statement on Her Legislation to End the Government Shutdown,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Legislation coauthored by U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, to end the government shutdown and provide three full-year Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations bills has been signed into law. Senator Collins issued the following statement: “Tonight, we finally put an end to the longest government shutdown in our nation’s history, which has caused completely unnecessary harm to so many families in Maine and across the country, as well as to our national and economic security. “As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I worked with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and with members of the House of Representatives and Administration to resolve the stalemate before America’s dedicated public servants missed yet another paycheck. I am pleased that under our legislation, all federal employees, including members of our military and Coast Guard, Capitol Police officers, Border Patrol agents, TSA screeners, and air traffic controllers will receive their back wages. “Since the beginning of the shutdown, I have been pushing for the three appropriations bills that previously passed the Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support to be attached to a continuing resolution to reopen government. These bills include important funding that will support our veterans, troops, farmers, and rural communities, and provide full-year funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). ""I thank Leader Thune for his commitment to bringing full-year appropriations bills to the floor, and I look forward to our continued work on appropriations legislation.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://loudermilk.house.gov/2025/11/12/longest-government-shutdown-in-history-ends-republicans-re-open-government-despite-democrat-opposition/,Longest Government Shutdown in History Ends; Republicans Re-open Government Despite Democrat Opposition,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Barry Loudermilk,L000583,loudermilk.house.gov,loudermilk,https://loudermilk.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. (June 23, 2026) | Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) issued the following statement following passage of... Friends, I hope you have had a great week! As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed... Washington, D.C. (June 9, 2026) | Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) issued the following statement following the U.S.... Friends, I hope you have had a great week! As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed... Friends, I hope you have had a great week! As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed... Washington D.C. (May 22, 2026) | Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) issued the following statement following the... Friends, I hope you are doing well. As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed of how... Friends, I hope you are doing well. As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed of how... Friends, I hope you are doing well. As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed of how... Friends, I hope you are doing well. As your Representative in Congress, it’s a priority to keep you informed of how... Washington D.C. (April 30, 2026) | Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) issued the following statement following the...",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:31:22Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senate-passes-legislation-to-reopen-government-championed-by-senator-collins,Senate Passes Legislation to Reopen Government Championed by Senator Collins,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Legislation includes significant wins for Maine Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Senate passed the legislation authored by U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, to reopen government by a vote of 60 to 40. The legislation, which includes a continuing resolution and three full-year Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations bills, now awaits consideration by the U.S. House of Representatives. Senator Collins led negotiations between Republicans and Democrats in the Senate and the House of Representatives, as well as members of the Administration, to reach the deal that passed the Senate today. The continuing resolution would reopen government immediately, extend funding through January 30th, and provide back pay to all federal workers, including those who have been working without pay or furloughed. The measure includes the final FY 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA); Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Related Agencies; and Legislative Branch appropriations bills. This three-bill package, which originally passed the Senate on August 1st with overwhelming bipartisan support, would make full-year appropriations available for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Since the beginning of the shutdown, Senator Collins has been urging for the three appropriations bills to be attached to the continuing resolution to reopen government. “This short-term continuing resolution would reopen government immediately, provide back pay to all federal workers, and fund important federal programs on which many Americans rely. The MilCon-VA bill would provide significant support for Maine’s veterans, shipbuilding workforce, and National Guard. By assisting farmers and investing in critical agricultural research and nutrition programs, the Agriculture, Rural Development, and FDA bill would support rural communities throughout the state,” said Senator Collins. “As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I am delighted with today's accomplishment, and I hope the House of Representatives will pass this legislation quickly so we can put an end to this unnecessary government shutdown.” MilCon-VA Bill Highlights: Local Projects: $9 million for Congressionally Directed Spending projects that support the Maine National Guard and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Power Reliability & Water Resiliency Upgrades: Nearly $228 million for the first increment of Power Reliability & Water Resilience Upgrades at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The project would increase reliability, resiliency, and capacity of electric and water utility systems that support nuclear-powered submarines and nuclear support facilities. Multi-Mission Drydock #1: Nearly $221 million for the sixth increment of the Multi-Mission Drydock #1 at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP): Report language on the SIOP emphasizing its importance and urging the Navy to prioritize the timely funding of public shipyard infrastructure. GI Bill Apprenticeship Program: Report language driving attention on the underutilization of apprenticeship and on-the-job training under the GI Bill. Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA Bill Highlights: Local Projects: More than $25 million for Congressionally Directed Spending projects in Maine, including more than $12 million for fire stations across the state. PFAS Research: $9 million, an increase of $2 million above the FY 2025 enacted level, for the Center of Excellence for PFAS solutions throughout Agricultural and Food Systems in conjunction with the University of Maine. Potato Research: Maintains full funding for the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s potato research programs. Potatoes in School Breakfast: Maintains provision that allows school food authorities to provide potatoes through the School Breakfast Program. Farm Loss: Includes language directing the Farm Services Agency to provide a report to the Committee on what factors are leading to agricultural production and farm loss in New England, and to include historical and projected data on acreage and crop types. Neurology Drug Program: $5 million for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Neurology Drug Program to support the development of policies and guidance to keep pace with emerging brain science. Nutrition: Fully funds nutrition assistance programs that support low-income women, children, and seniors. Links: Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agency Act, 2026 Legislative Branch Act, 2026 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-champions-deal-to-reopen-government,Senator Collins Champions Deal to Reopen Government,2025-11-09,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click HERE to watch and HERE to download. Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, delivered remarks from the Senator floor ahead of the Senate’s 60 to 40 procedural vote to advance legislation she unveiled today containing a clean continuing resolution to reopen government and three full-year Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations bills. The continuing resolution will reopen government immediately, extend funding through January 30th, and provide back pay to all federal workers. It does not include any poison pills. The measure includes the final FY 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies; Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies; and Legislative Branch appropriations bills. This three-bill package, which originally passed the Senate on August 1st with overwhelming bipartisan support, would make full-year appropriations available for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. A transcript of Senator Collins’ remarks are as follows: “Mr. President, today the Senate Appropriations Committee advanced legislation to reopen government immediately, funding vital programs, and resuming pay for federal workers, who for the last 40 days have had to live with the stress of missed paychecks and not knowing when they would be paid. “Under our legislation, all federal employees, including members of our military and Coast Guard, Capitol Police officers, Border Patrol agents, TSA screeners, air traffic controllers – all will receive their back wages. “It is significant that this measure also includes three full-year Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills, including the annual Agriculture, FDA bill, the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs legislation – very timely given that Veterans Day will soon be upon us – and the Legislative Branch funding bill. “This three-bill package, which originally passed the Senate on August 1st with overwhelming bipartisan support – 87 votes in two cases and 81 in another – will support our veterans, troops, farmers, and rural communities. Of note, this package will provide full-year funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP, and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, known as WIC. One of the most unfortunate and shameful consequences of this shutdown has been that these vital nutrition programs were in jeopardy for our most vulnerable families, including 170,000 Mainers who rely on the SNAP program. “Other programs will be funded through January 30th while the Senate and House continue work on the remainder of the year-long appropriations bills. For example, funding for important programs like Head Start and low-income heating assistance will now be restored. “I look forward to voting for this legislation and ending the unnecessary harm to the security of our families and our nation. “We must begin to act tonight. We must not delay any longer. “Finally, Mr. President, I want to thank the many members on both sides of the aisle of the Appropriations Committee and the Senate Leadership who have worked especially hard to bring this package together. And I would be remiss if I did not also thank our staff. My staff missed an entire night’s sleep to get this package together and get the job done. “Thank you, Mr. President. Again, I want to particularly thank the members of the Appropriations Committee, including those who serve as the Subcommittee Chairs: Senator Boozman, Senator Hoeven, and Senator Mullin. I want to thank Senator Britt who did an extraordinary amount of work. Lisa Murkowski, Mike Rounds, Jerry Moran, Shelley Moore Capito, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Deb Fischer – there’s so many who worked so hard on this package. I want to thank each and every one of them. “Let’s get the job done and let’s do it fast.” Links: Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agency Act, 2026 Legislative Branch Act, 2026 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15990,Carter pens letter calling for Charlie Kirk to be added to National Garden of American Heroes,2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) sent a letter to President Donald J. Trump encouraging him to add Charlie Kirk, a true patriot and martyr for free speech, among the figures honored in the National Garden of American Heroes. In the letter, Rep. Carter writes, “Charlie Kirk was a devoted Christian, who boldly lived out his faith with conviction, courage and compassion…The inclusion of Charlie Kirk in the National Garden would honor his life, leadership, and enduring legacy—defined by his steadfast commitment to the Constitution, civil discourse, and Biblical truth.” Carter continues, “Honoring Charlie Kirk in the National Garden would serve as a reminder that the strength of our Republic depends on citizens and leaders alike who engage thoughtfully, speak respectfully, and uphold the principles of our nation: life, liberty, limited government, and individual responsibility.” Charlie Kirk’s inclusion in the Garden boasts support from the University of Georgia’s (UGA) Turning Point USA Chapter: ""All of us in the TPUSA at UGA community are incredibly grateful for Representative Carter, Senator Cassidy, and the other distinguished members of Congress advocating for Charlie Kirk to be included in the Garden of American Heroes. This is a truly wonderful honor befitting Charlie Kirk's patriotic legacy,” said Carson French, President of Turning Point USA at UGA. Read the full letter here.",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15992,"Carter introduces MAMDANI Act, restricting federal funds to New York City",2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today officially introduced the Moving American Money Distant from Anti-National Interests (MAMDANI) Act, a bill that will restrict the flow of federal taxpayer dollars to New York City while Zohran Mamdani, a communist, is mayor. “In United States of America, a nation built on freedom, taxpayer dollars should not be used to fund communism and antisemitism. Georgians want nothing to do with Mamdani’s radical beliefs, and their hard-earned money should not be wasted on programs that will bankrupt the financial capital of the world. If New Yorkers want communism, we should let them have their wish and not artificially prop them up with our successful capitalist system,” said Rep. Carter. “Any New Yorker with common sense is welcome to move to the great, FREE state of Georgia.” Read the full bill text here. ###",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-markey-lead-bipartisan-resolution-recognizing-november-as-national-family-caregivers-month,"Senators Collins, Markey Lead Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing November as National Family Caregivers Month",2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Edward Markey (D-MA) introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing November as “National Family Caregivers Month.” The resolution honors the 63 million Americans who provide a combined $600 billion in unpaid care to family members or loved ones facing illness, disability, or the natural progression of aging. “Family caregivers show extraordinary compassion and devotion to their loved ones every day of the year, which is why it is important that we set aside this month to honor their admirable work,” said Senator Collins. “Far too many of us know the pressures that come with caregiving. My own family has experienced the challenges of caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s, and I have seen firsthand the strength and endurance that define so many of our nation’s caregivers.” “Family caregivers are the unsung heroes of our health care system. Family caregivers, like my father was for my mother, work around the clock doing the physical, emotional, medical, and financial work to support their loved one’s ability to remain in their homes and in their communities,” said Senator Markey. “I am proud to lead the National Family Caregivers Month resolution alongside Senator Collins to recognize the contributions of family caregivers and acknowledge the work we have yet to accomplish for caregivers and their loved ones.” Senator Collins has long championed policies to support family caregivers. Earlier this year, Senator Collins introduced the bipartisan Lifespan Respite Care Reauthorization Act with Senator Tammy Baldwin. The bill reauthorizes the Lifespan Respite Care Program for five years at $10 million annually through Fiscal Year 2030. It would also modernize the definition of “family caregiver” to include individuals under age 18. Senators Collins and Baldwin previously coauthored the RAISE Family Caregivers Act, which was signed into law in 2018 and called for the development of a coordinated strategic plan to leverage our resources, promote best practices, and expand services and training available to caregivers. Joining Senators Collins and Markey as cosponsors of this resolution are Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Andy Kim (D-NJ). The complete text of the resolution can be read here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-welch-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-expand-treat-in-place-emergency-medical-services,"Senators Collins, Welch Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Treat-in-Place Emergency Medical Services",2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced the bipartisan Comprehensive Alternative Response to Emergencies (CARE) Act. This bill would require the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to test a five-year “treatment-in-place” model in which Medicare reimburses emergency medical service (EMS) providers when they treat a patient outside of the hospital, such as for minor medical incidents, rather than transporting them to a hospital for care. “Having access to high-quality emergency medical services is essential for individuals in rural communities across Maine and the nation, yet in many areas these providers face serious staffing and financial challenges,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan bill would expand the treatment-in-place model for EMS services, reducing unnecessary emergency room visits, lowering costs, and easing the strain on our state’s hospital and EMS workforces.” “Vermont’s EMS providers are on the frontlines of medical emergencies. It’s only common sense that our government should pay EMS providers for their vital services, regardless of whether a person needs an ambulance to the hospital. But right now, EMS providers aren’t getting reimbursed for their lifesaving work—we need to fix that,” said Senator Welch. “I'm proud to work with Senator Collins on this bipartisan legislation to ensure that EMS providers can better help communities across rural America.” The CARE Act would build on the success of a temporary treatment-in-place model implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, which demonstrated savings of more than $500 to Medicare per patient encounter. In Maine, about 35 percent of EMS calls conclude without transport to a hospital, leaving providers to absorb those costs. By reimbursing EMS for care delivered in place, this legislation would strengthen local emergency response and better ensure that more patients receive appropriate, timely care. The bill is supported by the American Ambulance Association, the Maine Ambulance Association, North East Mobile Health Services, the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the National Rural Healthcare Association, the National EMS Quality Alliance, and many local EMS organizations across the country. ""We extend our heartfelt thanks to Senators Collins and Welch for their leadership in introducing the CARE Act,” said Jamie Pafford-Gresham, President of the American Ambulance Association. “By acknowledging that ambulance service organizations provide critical prehospital medical care, not just transportation, this legislation helps ensure that our nation’s EMTs and paramedics are properly recognized and services are reimbursed for this care delivered every single day in communities across America.” “NAEMT advocates to provide patients with the right care, in the right place, at the right time, and in the most cost-effective manner. We are grateful for Senators Collins' (CARE) Act. This legislation will assess the benefits of TIP to reduce overall Medicare costs, promote patient outcomes, and allow patients the freedom to receive care on their own terms. TIP provides strong benefits to struggling EMS agencies and crowded emergency departments (ED). By allowing patients to more appropriately receive care on-scene in lieu of transportation to a hospital, CMS can lessen the burden placed on EMS providers struggling with workforce shortages as well as decompress overcrowded hospitals and ED,” said Chief Chris Way, President of the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians “The CARE Act will help build upon projects underway in Maine in which our paramedics and EMTs are utilizing pre-hospital medical advancements to provide Mainers with high-quality health care without potentially having to go to the hospital,” said Dennis Brockway, CEO and President of North East Mobile Health Services ""The IAFC supports the bipartisan Comprehensive Alternative Response for Emergencies (CARE) Act,"" said Fire Chief Trisha L. Wolford, President and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. ""Fire-based EMS agencies across the nation are on the front lines of our healthcare system, providing critical care every day while facing the challenges of overburdened emergency departments and increasing demand on EMS. The CARE Act represents a significant step toward recognizing and supporting fire and EMS departments in their lifesaving work, while enhancing patient outcomes and alleviating the burden on overcrowded emergency departments. We commend Senator Collins and Senator Welch for their leadership in advancing this initiative with a common-sense approach to modernizing emergency medical care."" The complete text of the bill can be read here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15989,Carter visits Head Start program in Atlanta,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"ATLANTA, GA – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) visited the YMCA’s Head Start program in Atlanta, Georgia this week to discuss the impacts of the government shutdown on the families it serves. Rep. Carter with Head Start Staff Head Start is a federal program offering high-quality early education, nutritious meals, health and developmental screenings, and essential support services for children with disabilities, those experiencing homelessness, and low-income families. Due to the prolonged government shutdown, 135 Head Start programs did not receive their operational funding on November 1, including five programs in Georgia. This disruption has forced many programs to shut their doors, jeopardizing childcare and food security for over 6,500 children in Georgia. “Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock are using hardworking Georgia families as political leverage. Head Start is a critical program that provides meals and childcare to children and families in need. Much of Georgia’s success as the number one state in the nation to do business relies on this program, which is proven to improve academic performance, better health outcomes, increase graduation rates, and reduce involvement in the criminal justice and child welfare system. The longer this Democrat-led shutdown continues, the more programs will shutter, and fewer families will have access to the life-changing services they rely on to make it to work and put food on the table,” said Rep. Carter.",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-receives-family-caregiver-congressional-champion-award,Senator Collins Receives Family Caregiver Congressional Champion Award,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last night, U.S. Senator Susan Collins was awarded the Care In Action Congressional Award from the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) at the organization’s Caregiver Nation Summit in Washington. Senator Collins received the award in recognition of her work on the Lifespan Respite Act and her longstanding support for our nation’s caregivers. The NAC’s annual summit comes the same week that Senator Collins and a bipartisan group of senators introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing the month of November as “National Family Caregivers Month.” “We designate November as National Family Caregivers Month, but your compassion and devotion are evident every day of the year. Those qualities, along with endurance, are qualities that define the 63 million Americans who care for a loved one facing illness, disability, or the natural progression of aging,” said Senator Collins during her remarks at the summit. “It is vital that we support the health and well-being of family caregivers. Caregivers provide an estimated $600 billion in uncompensated care each year. Yet, an astounding 85 percent of caregivers have not received any respite services at all. Working together, in Washington and in communities across America, we are creating a shared vision for family caregiving that is centered on health, security, and support.” Earlier this year, Senator Collins introduced the bipartisan Lifespan Respite Care Reauthorization Act with Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI). The bill reauthorizes the Lifespan Respite Care Program for five years at $10 million annually through Fiscal Year 2030. It would also modernize the definition of “family caregiver” to include individuals under age 18. Senators Collins and Baldwin previously coauthored the RAISE Family Caregivers Act, which was signed into law in 2018 and called for the development of a coordinated strategic plan to leverage our resources, promote best practices, and expand services and training available to caregivers. The complete text of the National Family Caregivers Month resolution can be read here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-slotkin-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-american-farmers-and-end-unfair-trade-practices,"Senators Collins, Slotkin Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect American Farmers and End Unfair Trade Practices",2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,Mike Collins,C001129,www.collins.senate.gov,collins,https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) today introduced the Fairness for Fruits and Vegetables Act. This bipartisan bill would create more mechanisms to address unfair trade practices and prevent American specialty crop producers from being undercut. “From wild blueberry and potato growers to apple and maple syrup producers, Maine’s specialty crop farmers contribute enormously to our state’s economy and culture,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan legislation would instruct federal agencies to work together to monitor and address unfair trade practices that disadvantage these industries. By improving coordination and oversight, our bill would help protect farmers who produce specialty crops from the market disruptions that threaten their livelihoods.” “Our food supply is nothing without our specialty crops, like blueberries, cherries, and asparagus, so many of which are grown in Michigan. Specialty crop producers across the country are essential to feeding both our nation and the world,” said Senator Slotkin. “Because these crops face unique challenges, they deserve policies tailored to their realities. This legislation and new working group will strengthen connections and coordination between federal agencies and ensure specialty crop producers are getting a fair deal.” The Fairness for Fruits and Vegetables Act would form an interagency working group between the Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), the Department of Commerce, and other federal agencies to monitor the trade data for seasonal and perishable fruits and vegetables needed to level the playing field for American producers. As a result, this bill would establish a body for producers and trade associations to give input to on unfair trade practices. The complete text of the bill can be read here. Earlier this week, Senator Collins also sent a letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins urging the Department to provide disaster assistance to Maine’s specialty crop and livestock producers. In her letter, Senator Collins highlighted the serious toll that extreme weather, high production costs, and labor shortages have taken on Maine’s wild blueberry, apple, and livestock producers. She called on the USDA to ensure that these producers are included in any federal relief efforts. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15981,Rep. Carter Backs President Trump: End the Filibuster NOW,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter (R-GA) today released the following statement supporting President Donald J. Trump’s call to eliminate the Senate filibuster: “President Trump is exactly right. The filibuster is killing our country. Democrats have turned it into a weapon to block America First policies, shut down our government, and stop progress for the American people. Enough is enough. It’s time to end the obstruction, end the excuses, and end the filibuster.” Carter said Republicans must stop playing by the old rules while Democrats use every trick to advance their radical agenda: “The American people don’t care about career politicians’ outdated swamp traditions. They want results. When President Trump fights, he wins. When Republicans fight with him, America wins. The Senate should act now: eliminate the filibuster, let us deliver on the President’s agenda, and put our people first again.” Carter also backed President Trump’s call to end the outdated “blue slip” tradition that lets liberal senators block his nominees: “Blue slips are just another swamp trick and a courtesy Democrats never return. President Trump deserves his team in place to clean up this mess, prosecute corruption, and restore law and order. It’s time to end blue slips and let him get the job done.” Carter called on Republicans to find their backbone and stand with the President: “Once again, President Trump is right. He’s leading, showing real courage, and fighting for the PEOPLE while politicians make excuses. It’s time for Republicans to do what they were elected to do, to stand with him, and to finish the job.""",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15986,Carter volunteers in Gainvesville to assist residents struggling with Democrat-led government shutdown,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"GAINESVILLE, GA – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) this week volunteered at Good News at Noon in Gainesville, Georgia, itemizing and distributing clothes, toothbrushes, shoes, and other essentials as the Democrat-led government shutdown continues to harm Georgians. Good News at Noon offers a diverse range of essential resources rooted in community involvement to help its neighbors in need.",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z