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.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/congress-passes-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-improve-veterans-access-to-healthcare-and-benefits,"Congress Passes Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Improve Veterans’ Access to Healthcare and Benefits",2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – Congress passed the bicameral, bipartisan Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act last week, improving veterans’ access to healthcare and benefits. The legislation included the VET-TEC Authorization Act, led by U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Angus King (I-ME), members of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, to fund the Veterans Technology Education Courses (VET-TEC) program, which expired earlier this year. Since its creation in 2017, the VET-TEC program has helped thousands of veterans get jobs in the technology sector. The program has an 84% graduation rate, and provides tuition at eligible training institutions, housing stipends, and connections with potential employers. “The VET-TEC program has created effective pathways for veterans to launch their careers in tech,” said Cramer. “Building on its successes, this reauthorization expands eligibility to allow more veterans to participate in the program. Supporting our veterans includes enhancing the employment resources and opportunities available to them. I appreciate Congress’ support of this bill and look forward to the President signing it into law.” “The VET-TEC program has been an exceptional resource for thousands of veterans looking for good-paying jobs in the tech sector,” said King. “The reauthorization of the VET-TEC Authorization Act expands eligibility for both veterans and training institutions and is a commonsense step to give even more veterans access to opportunities in tech. While there is always areas where we disagree, I am glad both chambers and both parties came together to support our men and women who answered the call.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/eda-invests-13-million-to-boost-healthcare-workforce-development-at-und,EDA Invests $1.3 Million to Boost Healthcare Workforce Development at UND,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced an award of $1.3 million to the University of North Dakota (UND) in Grand Forks. This award supports healthcare workforce development by funding the procurement of a van and related equipment to allow UND to expand its medical training program. This $1.3 million award will be matched with $328,500 in local funds. “The University of North Dakota is essential to training medical professionals in the region,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND). “At a time of limited supply and growing demand for more technicians, nurses, and physicians, these funds will support workforce development efforts in the state, both now and in the future. I’m glad this project secured assistance to enhance training opportunities for the essential jobs in medical care.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-legislation-to-avert-government-shutdown-extend-farm-bill,"Senate Passes Legislation to Avert Government Shutdown, Extend Farm Bill",2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here to download audio.*** WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate passed a continuing resolution by a vote of 85 to 11 today, extending current government funding levels for three months, authorizing a one-year farm bill extension, and securing vital farm and disaster aid. The legislation, which extends appropriations levels through March 14, passed the House of Representatives by a bipartisan vote of 366 to 34. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the legislation: “While the passage of the bill is obviously important to avoid a government shutdown and of course to pass some priorities for North Dakota, it had better be the last time we do it this way. This is not how you should run the legislative branch and our constituents deserve a lot better than this incompetence and this dysfunction that we’ve seen these last few days and hours. I look forward to new leadership in Congress when Republicans become the majority in the Senate and Donald Trump occupies the White House.” This package includes funding and authorizations to support programs and initiatives benefitting North Dakota and the nation. The following provisions are included in the package: Extends the 2018 Farm Bill, Provides Economic Assistance for Farmers The continuing resolution extends the 2018 Farm Bill for one year, giving Congress another year to provide farmers and ranchers with a much-needed, new, and improved Farm Bill with an adequate farm safety net. This extension protects critical commodity programs which provide financial support to producers in the event of price or revenue declines, extends trade facilitation programs designed to expand markets for American crops, and continues providing specialty crop block grants to state departments of agriculture. This bill provides substantial financial relief for farmers impacted by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. It authorizes nearly $31 billion for agricultural aid, including $21 billion for the Emergency Relief Program for agricultural losses due to natural disaster in 2023 and 2024, and $10 billion in economic assistance for farmers to account for low commodity prices and high interest rates. This funding includes $2 billion set aside for livestock losses due to drought, wildfires, and floods, $828 million for the Emergency Conservation Program to rehabilitate damaged farmland, and $920 million for the Emergency Watershed Protection Program to address flood and erosion damages. The legislation also directs $362.5 million toward rural development disaster assistance to help rebuild infrastructure in rural communities and allocates $220 million in state block grants to support disaster recovery efforts. Provides Disaster Aid It’s been a difficult year, particularly for citizens in the southeast who experienced Hurricane Milton and Helen. In response to recent flooding, wildfires, and other natural disasters, this funding measure provides $100 billion in disaster relief assistance and includes allocations for infrastructure repair and rebuilding. Nearly $29 billion will go to the disaster relief fund at the Federal Emergency Management Agency, with $8 billion allocated towards rebuilding highways and bridges, and $2.2 billion to low-interest loans for businesses to assist in recovery. Secures Key National Defense Provisions As the U.S. Navy seeks to strengthen the submarine industrial base, this legislation supports nearly $5.7 billion for the Virginia-class submarine program and for workforce, wage, and non-executive salary improvements for other nuclear-powered vessel programs. Additionally, it provides funding for the Columbia-class submarine program, with $3 billion for the regular procurement of Columbia-class submarines, and almost $6 billion for advanced procurement. As Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services (SASC) Subcommittee on Seapower, Cramer has championed legislation and initiatives to bolster the Navy’s capabilities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-secures-disaster-assistance-for-north-dakota-farmers-and-ranchers,Hoeven Secures Disaster Assistance for North Dakota Farmers and Ranchers,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Secures Disaster Assistance for North Dakota Farmers and Ranchers WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after Congress passed $33.5 billion in disaster assistance for the nation’s farmers and ranchers. Hoeven worked to include the agriculture assistance as part of negotiations to fund the government. The bill also provides a one-year extension of the Farm Bill. “Our farmers and ranchers have faced severe challenges this year from both market conditions as well as wildfires and other natural disasters. This assistance for our producers is vital to keep their operations going and ensure that Americans continue to have access to high quality, low cost food,” said Hoeven “This assistance was necessary given the Democrats’ unwillingness to pass a farm bill that updated reference prices. We’ll continue our efforts to pass a strong farm bill that strengthens the farm safety net and keeps the farm in the farm bill.” As the Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Hoeven secured funding to help address producer losses resulting from natural disasters and challenging markets. The package includes $10 billion to help farmers mitigate economic losses in 2024, $21 billion to assist farmers and ranchers experiencing losses due to natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 and an additional $2.5 billion for other agriculture disaster needs including assistance for Agricultural Research Service (ARS) facilities damaged by recent hurricanes. North Dakota producers are estimated to receive more than $600 million for market losses. Specifically, the bill includes $2 billion for livestock losses including those due to wildfire, as well as $3 million to help domestic sugar producers by validating the testing of molasses imports at ports of entry to prevent the import of illegal sugar. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-space-force-awards-additional-10-million-to-test-and-develop-satellite-to-ground-secure-communications-network,Hoeven: Space Force Awards Additional $10 Million to Test and Develop Satellite-To-Ground Secure Communications Network,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: Space Force Awards Additional $10 Million to Test and Develop Satellite-To-Ground Secure Communications Network Funding Supports the Ongoing Work of Grand Forks’ Low-Earth Orbit Satellite Mission WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today announced that the U.S. Space Force has awarded a nearly $10 million contract modification to General Dynamics toward the company’s efforts to advance the Space Networking Center and satellite mission at the Grand Forks Air Force Base. Specifically, these funds will be used to test and develop a data traffic network serving the low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite mission. The project’s goal is to enable interoperability between the new space-based communications system and existing ground-based systems and ensure efficient data traffic as more missions are tied into the network, while keeping the mission information secure. “This additional $10 million in funding will help support a critical aspect of the LEO satellite mission – ensuring the secure and efficient movement of mission-critical information,” said Hoeven. “Under this award, General Dynamics will test and develop systems that can integrate the first tranche of LEO satellites into the DoD’s communications network. Doing so will lay the groundwork for missions to begin utilizing the satellite communications network and cementing Grand Forks’ central role in supporting military operations around the globe.” -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/dod-awards-contracts-for-vital-projects-at-grand-forks-air-force-base,DOD Awards Contracts for Vital Projects at Grand Forks Air Force Base,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here for audio.*** WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) announced it awarded contracts to Gideon Contracting, LLC, and General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc., for two projects at Grand Forks Air Force Base (GFAFB) in Grand Forks. The contracts will support two projects to improve the standard of living for airmen at GFAFB and further the Space Development Agency’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. Specifically, the contracts will support the following projects: A contract for $14,167,979 to Gideon Contracting, LLC for repairs to Bunch Hall Dorm 221. This contract provides for the contractor to furnish all labor, tools, materials, equipment, supervision, personnel, and all else necessary to manage and accomplish a comprehensive dorm renovation. Work will be performed at GFAFB and is expected to be completed by March 11, 2026. The 319th Contracting Squadron, GFAFB, is the contracting activity. An additional $9,956,096 modification to a previously awarded contract to General Dynamics, a global aerospace and defense company. This contract will go towards a project supporting Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture ground management, integration, operation, and sustainment efforts. The work is expected to be completed by Sept. 30, 2029, and will be performed in Grand Forks, Scottsdale, Arizona, and Huntsville, Alabama. The Space Development Agency is the contracting activity.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/theodore-roosevelt-presidential-library-north-dakota-trust-lands-bills-pass-senate-unanimously,"Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, North Dakota Trust Lands Bills Pass Senate Unanimously",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here for audio*** WASHINGTON, D.C. – Two bills cosponsored by U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) passed the Senate unanimously. Cramer joined fellow North Dakota delegation members U.S. Senator John Hoeven and then-Congressman Kelly Armstrong in introducing the North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act and the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Act. North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act ***Click here for audio*** This legislation authorizes North Dakota to relinquish its lands and minerals on Tribal Reservations to the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) in exchange for those in the state which are federally-owned. North Dakota holds more than 130,000 acres of minerals and over 31,000 surface acres within Tribal Reservations, though they are largely unavailable for development. At the same time, existing laws do not adequately accommodate land and mineral exchanges between the state and the federal government. “As any North Dakotan knows, fragmented mineral rights complicate energy and mineral development,” said Cramer. “Our North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act is really an easy fix to federal and state land transfers to ensure we encourage more energy and resource development in the state.” Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Act ***Click here for audio*** The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Act authorizes funding for the library’s continued construction in Medora, and ensures the preservation of President Roosevelt’s history and legacy. It draws on established precedent of presidential libraries receiving federal funding via the Congressional appropriations process, as well as to receive artifacts from the federal government.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-north-dakota-is-leading-the-way-in-clean-coal-technologies-will-work-with-trump-administration-to-make-america-energy-dominant,"Hoeven: North Dakota is Leading the Way in Clean Coal Technologies, Will Work With Trump Administration to Make America Energy Dominant",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: North Dakota is Leading the Way in Clean Coal Technologies, Will Work With Trump Administration to Make America Energy Dominant WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, this week outlined North Dakota’s leadership in developing and deploying clean coal technologies for the nation. The Senator spoke on the Senate floor following President-elect Donald Trump’s remarks on the importance of clean coal, one of the nation’s most reliable, affordable and abundant energy resources, and its role in making the United States energy dominant. Hoeven outlined his work over the past 15 years to advance North Dakota’s leadership in cracking the code on carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) technologies to enable the next generation of clean, coal-fired electric power, including: Putting in place the legal, tax and regulatory requirements to advance CCUS. Making North Dakota the first state to be granted regulatory primacy for Class VI wells, to ensure CO2 is safely and securely stored below the surface. Securing a demonstration grant from the Department of Energy to advance Project Tundra, enabling the coal-fired Milton R. Young power plant to capture and store 4 million metric tons of CO2 per year. Advancing Basin’s Dakota Gasification synfuels plant, the largest coal-based carbon capture project in the world, which is currently in operation and captures up to 2.25 million metric tons of CO2 per year. “I look forward to working with President Trump to take off the handcuffs and empower producers to develop the latest, greatest technology to produce more energy with better environmental stewardship. This is about unleashing our nation’s vast coal reserves – one of our country’s most important strategic assets. By leveraging technology and unlocking clean coal’s full potential, we’ll be able to increase the supply of affordable, reliable electricity and bring down prices for American families and businesses,” said Hoeven. “North Dakota is leading the way in clean coal technologies and this will be an important part of our efforts working with the Trump administration to make America not only energy secure, but energy dominant.” -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-senate-passes-legislation-to-help-make-theodore-roosevelt-presidential-library-a-reality,Hoeven: Senate Passes Legislation to Help Make Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library a Reality,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: Senate Passes Legislation to Help Make Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library a Reality Legislation Supports Library Establishment, Preservation & Display of Materials from President Roosevelt’s Life WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today announced that the U.S. Senate has approved legislation he introduced to support the establishment of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. Hoeven’s bipartisan, bicameral bill, which is cosponsored by Senators Kevin Cramer, Richard Blumenthal, Martin Heinrich and Mitt Romney in the U.S. Senate and was sponsored by then-Congressman Kelly Armstrong in the U.S. House of Representatives, would: Authorize the Department of the Interior to provide grants to establish the presidential library and support the display of materials. This legislation follows the model of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, located in Springfield, Ill., which authorized the use of materials and objects relating to Abraham Lincoln, as well as $50 million over five years for its establishment under fiscal year (FY) 2001 appropriations legislation. Require the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation to utilize non-Federal funds to provide a 2:1 match for each federal grant awarded. Prohibit the use of federal grants for maintenance or operations of the interpretive center. “As President Teddy Roosevelt proudly claimed, he would not have ascended to the presidency had it not been for his formative years in North Dakota,” said Senator Hoeven. “It is fitting that we establish this presidential library, which will commemorate his life and work, adjacent to the national park that bears his name. Our legislation plays a critical role in making this project a reality, and with Senate passage secured, we will continue our efforts to pass it through Congress and into law.” “A year and a half from now, North Dakotans and visitors from around the world are going to be able to see the story of our 26th President and our beloved Roughrider while experiencing the actual place that had a large impact on his life and Presidency,” said Senator Cramer. “This legislation is going to help immerse visitors in Theodore Roosevelt’s world as they view artifacts from every era of his life and learn, of course, about his legacy of leadership.” The bill comes as the latest in Hoeven’s efforts to support the establishment of the presidential library, having worked as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee to: Sponsor and successfully pass legislation enabling the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation to purchase U.S. Forest Service land in Billings County to construct a library and museum honoring the life and legacy of President Teddy Roosevelt. Secure legislation in the Interior appropriations bill to support loans of historic artifacts currently held by the Smithsonian for display at the library. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-passes-hoeven-sponsored-bill-to-allow-equal-value-land-and-mineral-exchanges-between-north-dakota_tribes,Senate Passes Hoeven-Sponsored Bill to Allow Equal-Value Land & Mineral Exchanges Between North Dakota & Tribes,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Senate Passes Hoeven-Sponsored Bill to Allow Equal-Value Land & Mineral Exchanges Between North Dakota & Tribes WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed the North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act, bicameral legislation he introduced with Senator Kevin Cramer and then-Congressman Kelly Armstrong to enable greater development of state-owned lands and minerals. Specifically, the bill would authorize the State of North Dakota to relinquish state-owned lands and minerals contained within the Tribal Reservations to the U.S. Department of the Interior and, in exchange, receive federal land and minerals of equal value within North Dakota. “We’ve advanced this legislation, in partnership with the State of North Dakota and tribal governments, to empower the lands and resources within our borders and on reservations to be better utilized for the benefit of the public,” said Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. “Allowing these equal-value exchanges is a win-win for the state and the tribes. North Dakota will be able to access minerals and surface acreage that would otherwise be stranded due to the patchwork of federal land in our state, while tribes will be able to reclaim the land and resources within reservation borders.” “As any North Dakotan knows, fragmented mineral rights complicate energy and mineral development,” said Cramer. “Our North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act is really an easy fix to federal and state land transfers to ensure we encourage more energy and resource development in the state.” Currently, North Dakota holds more than 130,000 acres of minerals and over 31,000 surface acres within Tribal Reservations alone, which are largely unavailable for development. At the same time, existing federal laws do not adequately allow for the state and federal government to exchange land and minerals. This leaves surface and mineral rights within the Tribal Reservations fragmented, while limiting the state’s ability to generate revenue from the land and minerals it owns. The North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act would resolve this issue by allowing equal value transactions between North Dakota and the Interior Department to exchange land and mineral rights, thereby: Enabling North Dakota to access the lands and minerals that were promised upon statehood to fund education and other public purposes. Providing tribes greater ownership over the lands within their reservation boundaries. Valuations conducted under this legislation would be determined by Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions and the Uniform Standards for Professional Appraisal Practice. Valid existing rights will be respected in these transactions and there will be no impact on any Indian treaty rights or to the National Grasslands. The full text and a summary of the legislation can be found here and here, respectively. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-senate-passes-water-resources-bill-benefitting-water-management-flood-control-and-recreation-in-nd,"Hoeven: Senate Passes Water Resources Bill, Benefitting Water Management, Flood Control & Recreation in ND",2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: Senate Passes Water Resources Bill, Benefitting Water Management, Flood Control & Recreation in ND WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement after the Senate passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024. The legislation includes measures Hoeven worked to advance to benefit water management, flood control and recreation in North Dakota. Specifically, the bill: Empowers the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to better assist public entities with the design and construction of small flood control projects. Requires the Army Corps to develop a guide on the use of public-private partnerships (P3) for water resource development projects, with the Fargo-Moorhead region’s flood protection project serving as a model for developing Corps projects more quickly and at a lower cost to taxpayers. This builds upon Hoeven’s efforts to advance the Red River Valley project as the first major Army Corps project to utilize the P3 split-delivery model. Calls for the enhancement of recreation facilities in Army Corps-managed areas, such as around Lake Sakakawea and Lake Oahe. The bill stresses the importance of retaining recreation fees at the point of collection, so the funds are used for the operations and maintenance of the site, consistent with other federal land management agencies’ practices. Doing so would allow its districts to plan local maintenance and repair projects, including at recreation sites in North Dakota. Reduces the non-federal cost share for economically-disadvantaged communities receiving assistance under the Section 594 rural water program. Hoeven has prioritized this program in annual appropriations bills to help smaller communities in North Dakota make needed improvements to their water and sewer systems. “North Dakotans well understand the importance of managing our water resources, whether for flood control, reliable community water supplies, irrigation or recreation,” said Hoeven. “We worked to ensure this legislation helps meet our state’s needs, empowering the Corps to better assist with flood protection and water systems in small communities. At the same time, this bill helps ensure recreation fees stay local, while removing bureaucratic hurdles, to allow the enhancement of the recreation facilities available at Corps-managed areas, benefitting the communities and local residents that make use of these sites.” -###- Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-passes-hoeven-sponsored-bill-to-address-law-enforcement-needs-in-indian-country,Senate Passes Hoeven-Sponsored Bill to Address Law Enforcement Needs in Indian Country,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Senate Passes Hoeven-Sponsored Bill to Address Law Enforcement Needs in Indian Country WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed their bipartisan Bridging Agency Data Gaps & Ensuring Safety (BADGES) for Native Communities Act. Specifically, the BADGES for Native Communities Act would support the recruitment and retention of Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) law enforcement officers, bolster federal missing persons resources and give Tribes and states greater tools to combat violence. “Our legislation is about empowering Tribal law enforcement to meet their staffing needs, giving them greater support as they work to protect their communities and keep the public safe,” said Senator Hoeven. “Recruitment and retention are real challenges for law enforcement, especially in rural areas. By allowing the BIA to conduct its own background checks, we are streamlining the agency’s ability to place officers in Tribal communities and helping fill this critical need.” “Tribal communities in Nevada have made it clear to me that their law enforcement is stretched thin, and this is impacting their ability to address the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “That’s why I’m proud to have worked with my colleague, Senator Hoeven, to pass our bipartisan BADGES for Native Communities Act through the Senate. This bill provides Tribal police with more tools to keep their communities safe, and I’m glad it’s one step closer to becoming law.” “We congratulate the Senate for passaging S. 465 – Bridging Agency Data Gaps & Ensuring Safety (BADGES) for Native Communities Act. This bill is a positive step toward addressing the growing public safety needs in tribal communities. We want to thank Senators Hoeven and Cortez Masto for this bi-partisan effort,” said Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians Chairman Jamie Azure, Standing Rick Sioux Tribe Chairwoman Janet Alkire, Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Chairman J. Garrett Renville, Spirit Lake Tribe Chairperson Lonna Jackson-Street and Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation Chairman Mark Fox in a joint statement. Specifically, the BADGES for Native Communities Act would: Allow the BIA to conduct its own background checks for law enforcement officer applicants in order to improve officer recruitment. Increase Tribal access to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) by requiring Tribal facilitators to conduct ongoing Tribal outreach and serve as a point of contact for Tribes and law enforcement agencies, as well as conduct training and information gathering to improve the resolution of missing persons cases. Require a report on Tribal law enforcement needs, including staffing, replacement and repairs for corrections facilities, infrastructure and capital for Tribal police and court facilities, and emergency communication technology. Establish a grant program to support states, Tribes, and Tribal organizations in the coordination of efforts related to missing and murdered persons cases and sexual assault cases. Evaluate federal law enforcement evidence collection, handling, and processing crucial to securing conviction of violent offenders. Senate passage of the bipartisan BADGES for Native Communities Act builds upon Hoeven’s previous efforts to address public safety for tribal communities in North Dakota. Through his role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hoeven secured: $2.5 million in Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 to open the Bureau of Indian Affair’s U.S. Indian Law Enforcement Advanced Training Center at Camp Grafton. $3 million in the Senate’s FY25 Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill to continue providing advance training courses for law enforcement officers at the ATC. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/congress-passes-strong-fy-2025-ndaa-secures-wins-for-north-dakota,"Congress Passes Strong FY 2025 NDAA, Secures Wins for North Dakota",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here to download video. Click here for audio.*** WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate passed legislation today containing major victories for North Dakota and the nation, including a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers and a 4.5% pay raise for all other servicemembers, at a time when recruitment is a vital concern. The annual bill, known as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025, passed by a vote of 85 to 14 and advances a “warfighting, not wokeness” agenda, reforms antiquated Department of Defense procurement, and expands tough-on-China policies. The FY25 NDAA pushes for the modernization of nuclear, hypersonic, missile defense, and space capabilities while also expanding U.S. Navy shipbuilding. The House of Representatives passed the bill last week with a broad bipartisan vote of 281-140, and will now head to the President’s desk for his signature. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) which passed the legislation in June, called the bill a “major victory, but still not enough.” “The highest Constitutional priority of the Congress every year is to provide for the nation’s defense and our bill this year really secures an amazing, historic pay raise, particularly for our junior enlisted servicemembers,” said Cramer, co-chair of the Senate Defense Modernization Caucus. “And that’s important because we have a recruiting challenge, we need to be able to recruit these people and providing a salary increase goes a long way to both recruit and keep our servicemembers. The NDAA rebuilds our arsenal of democracy which is good for the country and it’s good for our allies, and what’s good for our allies is good for our country. It acknowledges the pivotal role North Dakota plays in our national security as well. While that is secondary to securing freedom around the world, North Dakota plays a very vital role. This bill is a good step, but we need to do a lot more to rebuild our military and project strength to a world yearning for American leadership. Our adversaries need to see that projection of strength as well. I look forward to working with President Trump and his administration in January so we can address America’s most pressing threats from our adversaries, and end this radical woke ideology that’s distracting the Department from its warfighting mission.” The bill includes language, championed by Cramer, expanding access to mental health services in rural communities. Specifically, the legislation increases the number of providers certified by TRICARE in states if current mental health access does not meet its standards. However, this year’s NDAA does not include a measure approved by SASC to increase the topline of the defense budget by more than $25 billion. In addition to the historic pay increases for our servicemembers, the FY25 NDAA authorizes $895 billion to provide for the national defense of the United States, a 1% increase from FY24 funding levels. Cramer noted “a 1% increase in today’s inflation is a decrease, and the world is becoming increasingly dangerous and requires increased diligence.” As a member of SASC, Cramer secured funding authorization and the inclusion of language for multiple missions benefiting military communities across North Dakota. This year’s NDAA will authorize the following projects across the state: Grand Forks ***Click here for video and here for audio on wins for Grand Forks.*** “It’s no secret Grand Forks is really the tip of the spear in developing American defense assets, particularly at the speed of our adversaries. Grand Forks is an ecosystem full of innovation, especially in the space and unmanned aerial systems arena, where it shines. This year’s bill provides essential funding to meet the needs of today’s threats by supporting critical missions at Grand Forks Air Force Base, including by the way, sustaining Global Hawk operations and then planning maintenance for its runway. There is a growing connection between North Dakota’s defense capabilities and the global demand for the expertise residing right there in Grand Forks.” The legislation provides funding for the development and deployment of future Air Force intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions at Grand Forks AFB. It also prohibits the premature retirement of Global Hawks. Additionally, the bill: Authorizes $3 million in additional funding for the development of corrosion resistant coatings produced by Technology Applications Group (TAG) in Grand Forks. TAG is a leader in magnesium surface protection and inventor of the Tagnite anodize coating. Authorizes $2.5 million for development of new UAV technology produced by Ideal Aerosmith in Grand Forks. Ideal Aerosmith is the leading supplier of precision inertial guidance test systems, flight motion simulators, and a premier provider of aerospace test engineering services, ATE system engineering, and quality contract manufacturing services to the aerospace industry. Provides $1.9 million in planning and design funding to begin the process of maintenance for the Grand Forks Air Force Base (AFB) runway. Minot ***Click here for video and here for audio on wins for Minot.*** “We all know the modernization of our nuclear triad is the number one priority of our national defense strategy, and of course, this bill maintains that objective. This legislation really strengthens our defense posture and includes provisions to modernize our Ground-Based Strategic Deterrent right there in Minot, North Dakota at Minot Air Force Base. This has been the foundation of the projection of strength for America for decades, and it’s going to continue to be. This NDAA protects our nuclear deterrent capabilities by setting a statutory minimum of ICBMs and providing funding to restore capabilities of the B-52 bomber, the most beautiful, big, old machine in the fleet. When all of the other modern bombers have come and gone, the B-52 has always been the workhorse and we’re looking forward to modernizing it and making sure it’s the workhorse for decades to come.” This year’s NDAA provides $3.9 billion for Sentinel Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBM), modernizing the nation’s Ground-Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD). The legislation also includes provisions requiring the ICBM count to be no less than 400 total, protecting the nation’s nuclear deterrent capabilities. It also permits the restoration of nuclear capabilities across the entire B-52 strategic bomber fleet. The Air Force Global Strike Command's B-52 is a long-range, heavy bomber capable of flying at high subsonic speeds and carrying nuclear or precision guided conventional ordinance. Fargo ***Click here for video and here for audio on wins for Fargo.*** “The 319th Reconnaissance Wing up in Grand Forks is really important as they fly the all-important Global Hawks, but just as importantly, is the 119th in Fargo where the Happy Hooligans fly these very important Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) known as the MQ-9s. It plays an integral part of the nation’s Joint Force and an increasingly important part. As we see what’s going on in Ukraine, we see what’s going on in the Red Sea and the Middle Sea, and the missions of Fargo’s Happy Hooligans cannot be overstated. Among other provisions, this NDAA authorizes funding to provide our airmen with the support and care they deserve right there in Fargo.” The FY25 defense bill supports a $6 million increase in funding for continued development of cold spray repair and additive manufacturing technology created by VRC Metals. The legislation also includes a policy, which Cramer co-led, to create an equivalent identifier to a combat status identifier for RPA crew, such as the Happy Hooligans, to ensure they receive appropriate mental healthcare coverage and benefits. North Dakota National Guard (NDNG) ***Click here for video and here for audio on wins for NDNG.*** “We all know no one protects our homeland better than the soldiers of the North Dakota National Guard, and this year’s bill will assist those servicemembers as they devise a plan to maintain the beautiful UH-72 Lakota helicopters, which support missions in non-combat, non-hostile environments.” The FY25 NDAA authorizes $10 million and supporting legislation to ensure there is a clear sustainment plan for the UH-72 Lakota helicopters, utilized by the NDNG. The Lakota is designed for a variety of missions including training, general utility, search and rescue, reconnaissance, medical evacuation, disaster response, homeland security, counterdrug, command and control and VIP transport. Cavalier Space Force Station (SFS) ***Click here for video and here for audio on wins for Cavalier SFS.*** “One of the most impressive assets that North Dakota is home to is the radar at Cavalier Space Force Station. It’s an essential national defense asset and an important component of our defense ecosystem here in the state. This Fiscal Year 2025 NDAA provides really important funding to upgrade the radar system. This modernization will ensure it maintains its space domain awareness capabilities for a very long time.” This year’s NDAA provides $5 million for updates to the Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System (PARCS) at Cavalier SFS. PARCS is a single-faced, multi-function, UHF-Band, phased-array radar system which tracks over half of all earth-orbiting objects. The system has the ability to detect and detract intercontinental and sea-launched missile threats, while passing along critical surveillance data to North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), United States Space Command (USSPACECOM) and regional combatant commanders.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-bill-saving-taxpayers-millions-becomes-law,"Cramer Bill, Saving Taxpayers Millions, Becomes Law",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here to download video. Click here for audio.*** WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congress passed the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024. Following extensive support in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, the package heads to the President for his signature. The package includes several bills to right size the federal government’s real estate portfolio, including U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer’s bipartisan FASTA Reform Act. Cramer serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure, the committee of jurisdiction over federal buildings across the country. During an EPW hearing in July, Cramer asked General Services Administration’s (GSA) Public Buildings Service (PBS) Commissioner Elliot Doomes to explain his agency’s actions to ensure better usage of federal buildings. A Government Accountability Office study from October 2023 found 17 of 24 surveyed federal agencies, on average, used an estimated 25 percent or less of the capacity of their headquarters buildings. In 2023 alone, federal agencies reported over 5,000 buildings as either underutilized or unutilized altogether. This longstanding problem has been worsened by agencies’ embrace of remote, telework policies. The FASTA Reform Act is one of two public buildings reforms included in the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act to assist the federal government in consolidating real estate and ensuring taxpayer-funded buildings do not sit empty. The Federal Assets Sale and Transfer Act (FASTA) was passed in 2019 to create a process for offloading unused federal assets. Since its passage, the federal government already disposed of 10 buildings and generated $193 million in revenue. The FASTA Reform Act streamlines the process for disposing of unused federal real estate, allowing for even greater sales and better returns to taxpayers. Similarly, the Utilizing Space Efficiency and Improving Technologies (USE IT) Act requires the GSA and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to implement a standard methodology of measuring occupancy and utilization of public buildings and requires GSA and OMB to take steps to reduce or consolidate space if utilization rates fall below 60%.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-secures-infrastructure-and-water-development-wins-for-north-dakota-communities,Cramer Secures Infrastructure and Water Development Wins for North Dakota Communities,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here to download video. Click here for audio.*** WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA) passed the Senate on Wednesday by a vote of 97 to 1. Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill on a broad bipartisan basis, with a vote of 399 to 18. WRDA is a biennial bill which authorizes flood control, navigation, and ecosystem restoration projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). This year, WRDA is paired with a collection of bills, which moved through regular order and received markups in both the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee. In addition to WRDA, this package includes legislation to reauthorize the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) and repurpose unused transportation financing for state departments of transportation formula programs. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ranking Member of the EPW Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee, celebrated the passage of WRDA in a statement: “This particular WRDA bill delivers some real results for North Dakota and for the nation, quite honestly,” said Cramer. “It passed both the Senate and House overwhelmingly, and it’s continuing our decade-long streak of passing WRDA on time and through regular order, something that’s not done very many times anymore in the Congress. It’s a package that includes lots of important priorities that I personally championed, things like improving local recreational sites, strengthening the National Dam Safety Program, reauthorizing and reforming the Economic Development Administration for the first time, if you can imagine, in twenty years, and of course it bolsters the state’s highway formula funding to benefit rural states.” Water Resources Development ActSecures Tribal, Recreation Wins ***Click here to download video. Click here for audio.*** Two provisions within the WRDA package directly benefit tribal communities. Cramer helped pass the permanent reauthorization of the Corps’ Tribal Partnership, allowing USACE to perform feasibility studies for tribal water resource development projects. The bill also includes language Cramer championed directing the Corps to submit a report to Congress on land suitable to be transferred to Standing Rock Sioux Tribe for improved recreation access and development, fulfilling a commitment made by Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Mike Connor during a visit with Cramer to Standing Rock in 2023. The bill includes a version of Cramer’s bipartisan LAKES Act to improve management of recreation sites by allowing the USACE to enter into cooperative agreements with local stakeholders and retain recreation fees collected for the operation and maintenance of the site. The LAKES Act provides new opportunities for public-private investments and gives local USACE districts more flexibility to reinvest the resources they collect locally from visitors. Cramer also secured wins for rural communities across North Dakota, to maximize federal cost shares, fund essential water infrastructure projects, and ensure communities have necessary resources for water infrastructure. The 594 Program, an essential source of funding for communities constructing water and wastewater infrastructure, now requires less non-federal cost share to be eligible for funding. Additionally, WRDA will increase the federal cost-share for inland waterway projects to 75% from the Inland Waterways Trust Fund, providing enhanced support for communities pursuing infrastructure projects. WRDA also reauthorized the National Dam Safety Program, which is legislation Cramer joined U.S. Senator Padilla (D-CA) in introducing earlier this Congress. This program provides North Dakota much-needed support to oversee the management and safe operations of over 3,000 dams. “Well there are lots of things about WRDA I really like, but I’m especially pleased with the strong emphasis that it has on really recognizing tribal sovereignty,” said Cramer. “You know, nobody knows their resources better than the people that live with them, and this is certainly true of our reservations and our tribal leaders. For too long, the federal government has been hoarding what are some of the most valuable and pretty natural resources when our local tribal leadership wants to use those resource for economic opportunities. In fact, it’s why I brought the Assistant Secretary for Civil Works, Mike Connor, out to Standing Rock to meet with the Standing Rock leaders and see these assets for himself. Our WRDA also includes priorities like the LAKES Act to localize Corps-managed recreational sites and strategically engage in public-private partnerships. I worked really hard both with my Senate colleagues and my House colleagues to get this in the bill.” The Fiscally Responsible Highway Funding Act of 2024 ***Click here to download video. Click here for audio.*** The Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) program is a discretionary Department of Transportation financing authority. Each year, when TIFIA funding goes unused it disrupts the formula funding each state Department of Transportation receives. This bill redistributes these unspent funds to the states via formula, giving them greater flexibility to meet their infrastructure needs. “My highest priority when we did the bipartisan infrastructure law a few years ago, was to maintain the maximum share of funding for North Dakota via what we call formula, that’s a swamp term for the way that money is distributed to states, recognizing that the miles of highway count as well as the population that they serve,” said Cramer. “The inclusion of the Fiscally Responsible Highway Funding Act bolsters this very principle by allowing unused funding to be repurposed and then distributed to the states via this traditional formula. It’s simple, for sure, but its also a critical change that gives our state DOTs additional funding certainty and then the autonomy to pursue the infrastructure projects that our large, rural states really need.” Economic Development Administration Reauthorization ***Click here to download video. Click here for audio.*** For the first time in two decades, the EDA is reauthorized to reassert congressional direction over the agency and update its programs. This reauthorization includes changes to update funding levels in a fiscally responsible manner, prioritizes investments in hard infrastructure projects, provides new opportunities for small rural communities to receive assistance, and supports locally-driven economic development efforts. The reauthorization of the EDA paves the way for communities of less than 10,000 people to receive EDA grants at 100% federal cost share if they meet economic distress criteria. Over 97% of North Dakota towns have less than 10,000 residents. Tribal communities will benefit from a dedicated Office of Tribal Economic Development to help access economic development assistance programs. To better serve North Dakotans, this authorizes the Northern Great Plains Regional Authority through Fiscal Year 2029.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-335-billion-in-ag-disaster-assistance-included-in-cr,Hoeven: $33.5 Billion in Ag Disaster Assistance Included in CR,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: $33.5 Billion in Ag Disaster Assistance Included in CR Senator Worked to Secure Ag Assistance for Producers Impacted by Economic Losses & Natural Disasters, Provide Farm Bill Extension WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, today announced that $33.5 billion in agriculture disaster assistance has been included in the continuing resolution. Hoeven worked to secure the agriculture assistance to help address producer losses resulting from natural disasters and challenging markets. The package includes $10 billion to help farmers mitigate economic losses in 2024, $21 billion to assist farmers and ranchers experiencing losses due to natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 and an additional $2.5 billion for other agriculture disaster needs, including assistance for Agricultural Research Service (ARS) facilities damaged by recent hurricanes. At the same time, the legislation provides a one-year extension of the farm bill to give producers certainty as they plan for next year. “Farm country has faced growing and serious challenges this year, which is why we worked hard to secure funding to help them recover and regroup for the coming year,” said Hoeven. “Across the U.S., farmers have suffered over $31 billion in market losses, in addition to $35 billion in uncovered weather-related losses. This package includes $10 billion in relief for economic losses and $21 billion in weather-related assistance to help our producers deal with their losses and keep their operations going. This is critical assistance for our nation’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities.” Economic Assistance Of the $10 billion provided for economic losses, North Dakota producers are estimated to receive more than $600 million for market losses. Weather Disaster Assistance The $21 billion for losses due to natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 includes: $2 billion for livestock losses. $3 million to help domestic sugar producers by validating the testing of molasses imports at ports of entry to prevent the import of illegal sugar. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-secures-nuclear-modernization-counter-uas-and-national-guard-priorities-in-fy2025-ndaa,"Hoeven Secures Nuclear Modernization, Counter-UAS & National Guard Priorities in FY2025 NDAA",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Secures Nuclear Modernization, Counter-UAS & National Guard Priorities in FY2025 NDAA WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, today issued the following statement after Congress passed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The annual legislation includes important priorities that Hoeven worked to advance for servicemembers and missions in North Dakota, supporting the state’s growing role in the nation’s defense. These include: More than $5.6 billion in authorizations to advance nuclear modernization at Minot Air Force Base, including the Sentinel, B-52 and Long Range Stand Off (LRSO) missile programs, as well as provisions to: Prohibit reductions in the number of deployed intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). Create a new Assistant Secretary of Defense to oversee nuclear deterrence policies and programs across the Department of Defense (DoD). Strengthening Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS): Directs the Secretary of Defense to develop a strategy for countering threats from unmanned aircraft to DoD facilities, personnel and assets. Stands up a Counter-UAS Task Force at DoD. $4 billion in authorizations for the Space Development Agency, including the low-Earth orbit satellite program based in Grand Forks and Cavalier Space Force Station. Hoeven-sponsored provisions benefitting the North Dakota National Guard to: Modernize the UH-72 Lakota helicopter. Direct DoD to develop a plan for providing the MQ-1C Gray Eagle to the Army National Guard. Authorizing a larger pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers (E-4 and below) and a basic pay increase for all other servicemembers. Prohibiting for an additional two years, federal rules that would require contractors to disclose emissions, consistent with Hoeven’s Focus on the Mission Act. Greater support for Israel in the war against Hamas, requiring DoD to provide the nation with intelligence and advice and expanding anti-tunneling cooperation with Israel. “As our nation faces new and growing threats, whether from the nuclear ambitions of our adversaries or the misuse of unmanned aircraft, we need to properly equip and support our men and women in uniform. That’s exactly what we’ve worked to accomplish with this year’s defense authorization bill,” said Hoeven. “Importantly, this bill helps keep nuclear modernization in Minot on track, while supporting our efforts for Grand Forks to lead the way in new Counter-UAS technologies and Space Force operations. At the same time, we continue working to strengthen the capabilities of our outstanding Guard members, including by modernizing the Lakota helicopter already flown by the Army National Guard and bringing the Gray Eagle into their operations as well.” Counter-UAS Efforts in North Dakota Hoeven’s priorities in the FY2025 NDAA build upon his efforts to leverage North Dakota’s expertise in unmanned aviation to address security threats arising UAS. To this end, Hoeven has been working to expand the size and scope of Project ULTRA, an initiative led by the Northern Plains UAS Test Site and Grand Sky, and utilize the program to accelerate the development of DoD counter-UAS capabilities by leveraging technology developed in the private sector. The senator previously discussed this priority at the UAS Summit in Grand Forks with Gen. David Stewart, who is leading the effort to protect against the misuse of unmanned aircraft across all military branches. He also continues to advance the priority with key DoD officials, such as Air Combat Command (ACC) Commander Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Charles Q. Brown and Dr. William LaPlante, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-cramer-national-science-foundation-awards-250000-to-turtle-mountain-community-college,"Sen. Cramer: National Science Foundation Awards $250,000 to Turtle Mountain Community College",2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Science Foundation announced an award of $250,000 to Turtle Mountain Community College. This award will increase the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) instructional and research capacities. Specifically, this project will enhance the cyberinfrastructure and cybersecurity necessary to facilitate development of the institution in STEM fields and for the protection of sensitive data.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-pfluger-introduce-cra-resolution-to-block-natural-gas-tax-reduce-energy-costs-and-boost-us-energy-production,"Hoeven, Pfluger Introduce CRA Resolution to Block Natural Gas Tax, Reduce Energy Costs & Boost U.S. Energy Production",2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven, Pfluger Introduce CRA Resolution to Block Natural Gas Tax, Reduce Energy Costs & Boost U.S. Energy Production WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Congressman August Pfluger (R-Texas) today introduced a bicameral Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution of disapproval to block implementation of the Biden administration’s Natural Gas Tax, which was passed as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spend legislation in 2022. “American households and businesses depend every day on access to affordable and reliable energy,” said Senator Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. “The best way to bring down prices for U.S. consumers is to increase supply. That’s why we’re working to rescind policies like the Natural Gas Tax, among the many other costly and burdensome taxes and regulations imposed under the Biden administration. Doing so will help unleash our domestic energy production and make our nation energy dominant once again.” “President Biden’s promise to end fossil fuels hurt the hardworking energy producers of my district who have worked diligently to increase production while fueling our allies abroad,” said Rep. Pfluger. “If implemented, the ill-conceived natural gas tax will handicap technological innovation, reduce supplies of affordable energy, and increase both costs and emissions. I am proud to lead this CRA to rescind implementation of the natural gas tax.” This legislation comes as part of Hoeven’s broader efforts to rescind the wide array of costly taxes and regulations imposed by President Biden, which have resulted in increased costs for consumers and hampered domestic U.S. energy production. Moving forward, Hoeven and his colleagues will work in the new Congress and under the Trump administration to repeal burdensome federal rules in order to: Improve access to taxpayer-owned energy resources. Streamline the approval process for energy development and the construction of infrastructure needed to get energy to market. Reduce the cost of production, fight inflation and bring down prices for American consumers. The Hoeven-Pfluger bill is cosponsored by Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), James Risch (R-Idaho) and Rick Scott (R-Fla.) in the U.S. Senate and Congressman Jodey Arrington (R-Texas) in the House of Representatives. The full text of the legislation can be found here. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-urges-members-of-north-dakota-farmers-union-to-help-advance-ag-disaster-assistance-package,Hoeven Urges Members of North Dakota Farmers Union to Help Advance Ag Disaster Assistance Package,2024-12-14,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Urges Members of North Dakota Farmers Union to Help Advance Ag Disaster Assistance Package Senator Working to Secure Ag Disaster Relief in Year-End CR, Outlines Efforts to Enhance Farm Safety Net BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today addressed the North Dakota Farmers Union state convention, where he outlined his efforts as a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee to provide relief and certainty to the state’s farmers and ranchers. To this end, Hoeven has been working with his Senate colleagues and the incoming Trump administration, including in a recent meeting with Agriculture Secretary nominee Brooke Rollins, to: Secure disaster assistance for producers impacted by natural disasters and challenging markets across the United States. Hoeven is working with his colleagues to secure in the Continuing Resolution a package with $12 billion of relief for economic losses and $16 billion in weather-related assistance. The senator called on the members of North Dakota Farmers Union, along with agriculture stakeholders across the country, to advance this priority with members of Congress. Pass a strong farm bill that makes needed investments in the farm safety net. Advance pro-growth tax policies that help farmers, ranchers and agri-businesses recoup their costs and manage their operations, such as: A low, competitive tax rate. Section 199A for cooperatives and pass-through businesses. Maintaining stepped-up basis for farm and ranch assets. Eliminating the death tax. Bonus depreciation for qualified property like farm equipment. Cut red tape to reduce the regulatory burden on farmers and ranchers and protect private property rights. “We continue working to provide meaningful disaster relief for American farmers and ranchers, including those in North Dakota who have dealt with recent wildfires and a challenging market. The ag disaster assistance package we’re working to advance as part of the CR is critical to get farm country through these hard times, and we need the help of groups like North Dakota Farmers Union to get it done,” said Hoeven. “Once we’ve addressed this immediate need and are in the new Congress, we will be well-positioned to strengthen the tools available to producers, ensuring programs like crop insurance, ARC and PLC work when needed most. Doing so will help prevent the need for future ad-hoc disaster assistance.” Keeping the Farm in the Farm Bill Hoeven continues working to secure an extension of the farm bill as part of year-end legislation. Doing so will give more time for Hoeven and his colleagues to address critical priorities for producers, including: Enhancing crop insurance, the primary risk management tool for many producers. Improving the affordability of higher levels of coverage, consistent with Hoeven’s FARMER Act, will better enable producers to weather natural disasters and reduce the need for future ad-hoc disaster assistance. Improving the counter-cyclical safety net, including the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs. Hoeven stated that reference prices need to reflect market realities and the cost of production that farmers are currently facing. Ensuring adequate access to credit by passing his legislation to modernize Farm Service Agency (FSA) loan limits as part of the Farm Bill. Strengthening livestock disaster programs, including the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP), the Livestock Forage Program (LFP) and the Emergency Livestock Assistance Program (ELAP). Hoeven is sponsoring legislation to better align coverage between LFP and ELAP and make these improvements permanent. Making programs voluntary and farmer-friendly, instead of one-size-fits-all. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-working-to-secure-ag-disaster-assistance-in-continuing-resolution,Hoeven Working to Secure Ag Disaster Assistance in Continuing Resolution,2024-12-14,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Working to Secure Ag Disaster Assistance in Continuing Resolution Senator Working with Senate Appropriations and Agriculture Committee Colleagues to Address Producer Losses, Urges Farmers & Ranchers to Advance Priority with Senators BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today released the following statement regarding ongoing efforts to secure agriculture disaster assistance in the Continuing Resolution being prepared by the Senate Appropriations Committee. As Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Hoeven is working with his colleagues to address producer losses resulting from natural disasters and challenging markets. “As farmers have faced growing and serious losses this year, we have put forward a package of $12 billion of relief for economic losses and $16 billion in weather-related assistance that we’re working to secure in the end-year Continuing Resolution. Republican leadership has supported this offer, and we have made a straightforward proposal to Democratic leadership to come to the aid of farmers and ranchers across the country. While we have kept this proposal clean of potentially partisan additions, we have not yet received the Democratic support we need. We encourage the nation’s farmers, ranchers, and agriculture stakeholders to let their representatives know how critical it is for the Continuing Resolution to include both economic and weather agriculture assistance for America’s producers,” said Hoeven. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-murphy-introduce-legislation-to-improve-vision-care-quality-protect-consumer-choice,"Cramer, Murphy Introduce Legislation to Improve Vision Care Quality, Protect Consumer Choice",2024-12-13,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – Two Vision Benefit Managers (VBMs) dominate the vision insurance market, providing coverage to two-thirds of Americans with vision benefits. These VBMs often own the frame and lens manufacturers and control which labs an optometrist can use, resulting in less autonomy for providers and more limited choices for their patients. U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) introduced the Vision Lab Choice Act of 2024 to allow clinicians to use the medical labs of their choosing and lower costs for both patients and doctors. Specifically, the legislation would amend Title XXVII of the Public Health Service Act to allow optometrists to choose the best labs and suppliers for their practice, ensuring patients receive high-quality, personalized vision care. “Vision Benefit Managers are often a hurdle to optometrists and eye care specialists providing the best care to their patients,” said Cramer. “Expanding consumer choice benefits patients when service is improved. I joined Senator Murphy in introducing the bipartisan Vision Lab Choice Act of 2024, so doctors will have more autonomy over which labs they work with and where they source their materials.” “Right now, VBMs control practically every part of the vision industry – the insurance plans, the manufacturers for frames and lenses, the vision labs – and they use that power to eliminate choice and drive up costs for doctors and patients,” said Murphy. “This bill would solve a small piece of that problem by making sure optometrists aren’t forced to use a VBMs preferred vision lab. Instead, they’ll have the freedom to choose labs that lower costs and cut wait times for patients.” The bill is endorsed by the American Optometric Association, National Consumers League, Patients Rising, Hispanic Leadership Fund, Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) Global Policy Initiative, and the Black Women’s Health Imperative.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-secures-additional-3-million-eid-tags-from-usda-to-help-ranchers-comply-with-new-tag-mandate,Hoeven Secures Additional 3 Million EID Tags From Usda to Help Ranchers Comply with New Tag Mandate,2024-12-13,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Secures Additional 3 Million EID Tags From Usda to Help Ranchers Comply with New Tag Mandate Senator Included $10 Million in Senate’s FY25 Ag Approps Bill to Explicitly Fund Tags BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven, Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) will provide an additional 3 million electronic identification (EID) tags for U.S ranchers. This comes after Hoeven pressed APHIS officials to ensure that North Dakota ranchers have the resources necessary to comply with a new EID tag mandate that went into effect on November 5. The APHIS rule requires “official identification” on certain cattle and bison moved across state lines for the purpose of animal disease traceability, and expanded the requirements for ear tags used as official identification. For animals tagged after the rule’s effective date, the ear tags “must be readable both visually and electronically.” “We pressed APHIS to ensure that our ranchers have the resources necessary to comply with their new EID mandate,” said Hoeven. “Our ranchers are already facing challenges from weather and high input costs, the last thing they need are additional costs from USDA mandates.” As the lead Republican on the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Hoeven included $10 million in the Senate’s Fiscal Year 2025 Agriculture Appropriations Bill to explicitly fund the new APHIS tag requirement. That legislation has been approved by the full Senate Appropriations Committee. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/us-department-of-energy-announcesnearly-1-million-to-university-of-north-dakota,U.S. Department of Energy Announces Nearly $1 Million to University of North Dakota,2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Energy announced a grant of $999,999 to the University of North Dakota (UND) to improve unit operations of processing and manufacturing of critical materials. Specifically, this funding will allow UND to conduct a prototype demonstration of a proven process for producing low-cost, high-performance silicon monoxide with graphene coating (SiO/G) anode materials for lithium (Li)-ion batteries (LIBs) while reducing water, waste, chemical intensity, and energy consumption.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-delivers-floor-speech-on-doug-burgum-to-lead-interior-department-national-energy-council,"Cramer Delivers Floor Speech on Doug Burgum to Lead Interior Department, National Energy Council",2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here to download video. Click here for audio.*** WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last month, President Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum to serve as Secretary of the Interior. In his statement, President Trump also announced the creation of the National Energy Council, which will include every agency involved in each step of the energy development, production, and distribution process. As Secretary of the Interior, Burgum will chair the council. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) delivered a speech on the Senate floor highlighting the announcement. “Doug Burgum does do things differently than most, I will warn you. It is his nature. He is, after all, a risk taker. He mortgaged his family farm to get $250,000 in seed capital needed to buy into his first company, a small business solutions startup in Fargo called Great Plains Software. Great Plains grew from a dozen or so to over 2,200 employees before it was sold to Microsoft in 2001 for $1.1 billion. Now, Fargo, North Dakota is home to one of the largest Microsoft campuses in the country. “By definition and tradition, a cabinet secretary’s role is limited to the confines of the agency that they lead, the Constitution and the laws of the United States. But when President Trump announced Governor Burgum as his choice to serve as Secretary of the Interior, he also announced the formation, the establishment of a National Energy Council with Doug serving as its very first chair. This will include every agency involved in every step of the development, production, and distribution of American-made energy. This coordination is a radically commonsense solution to the inane complexity of an overbearing bureaucracy. “The pick of Governor Burgum and the creation of the council are brilliant moves by a president who has made energy dominance a central pillar of his second administration. Like every other cabinet secretary nominee, Doug Burgum will come before the Senate, first in committee, and then on the floor for a Senate-wide vote. We will fulfill our Constitutional duty to provide our advice and, ultimately, consent to the president’s nominee. “We need dedicated these outsiders like President Trump and Governor Burgum to even begin cleaning up the mess of the last four years and Make Energy Policy Make Sense Again. Undoing the mountain of Biden administration regulations is the first step to unleashing our energy potential. But it will take deliberate, thoughtful coordination between the Department of the Interior, Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Agriculture, and yes, the Department of Justice, and others. Encouraging American energy development requires making producers’ interactions with the federal government as seamless as possible and we must have a Justice Department committed to the laws and policies they are responsible for defending. “As chair of the National Energy Council and Secretary of the Interior, Doug Burgum will be at the forefront of slashing red tape and unleashing American energy dominance to Make American Energy Great Again. Congratulations to President Trump and Governor Burgum. January 20th can’t get here too soon!”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-faa-approves-und-for-enhanced-air-traffic-control-program-students-to-start-in-spring-semester,"Hoeven: FAA Approves UND for Enhanced Air Traffic Control Program, Students to Start in Spring Semester",2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: FAA Approves UND for Enhanced Air Traffic Control Program, Students to Start in Spring Semester GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved the University of North Dakota’s (UND) application to the Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program: The FAA and UND have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to officially establish the program, under which UND will offer the same curriculum provided by the FAA Academy. UND students will be able to begin participating in the enhanced air traffic control (ATC) program in the 2025 spring semester. Upon graduation, the students will immediately be eligible for hire and to begin localized training at an air traffic facility. Prior to this, UND graduates were only able to skip the first five weeks of training at the FAA Academy. Graduates will still be required to pass the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) exam and meet medical and security requirements. Hoeven worked to advance this opportunity for UND and its students as part of his efforts to address the nation’s ATC shortage. To this end, the senator made the case to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker for UND to lead the way in this initiative. Hoeven and his staff also coordinated efforts between UND and the FAA to ensure the review process moved forward and the application was approved in a timely manner. “Today, we reach an exciting milestone in our efforts to address the air traffic controller shortage, while ensuring UND continues to lead the way across the board when it comes to aviation. We need more qualified air traffic controllers out in the workforce, and it makes sense to leverage the expertise of the John D. Odegaard School of Aviation to meet this critical need. That’s why, throughout this process, we made the case to the FAA for UND to play a central role in the new Enhanced AT-CTI program,” said Senator Hoeven. “Starting in the 2025 spring semester, UND’s students will have the opportunity to bypass the FAA ATC Academy in Oklahoma and go directly into the workforce after graduation. That’s an incredible value to students and a benefit to communities across that country, whose local economies rely on safe and reliable air service.” Addressing the ATC Shortage The FAA reauthorization bill, which Congress passed earlier this year, includes legislation Hoeven cosponsored that requires the FAA to use a more accurate staffing model developed by the National Air Traffic Controllers Association and the FAA’s Air Traffic Organization. The bill also sets an updated minimum hiring target for new air traffic controllers. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/panel-at-reagan-national-defense-forum-highlights-americas-role-as-arsenal-of-democracy,Panel at Reagan National Defense Forum Highlights America’s Role as Arsenal of Democracy,2024-12-07,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here for media resources.*** SIMI VALLEY, C.A. – The Reagan National Defense Forum brings together leaders in the political and defense communities each year to discuss policies strengthening the defense of the United States. The theme of this year’s forum is “Peace Through Strength in a Time of Transition” and includes panels featuring members of Congress, administration officials, and senior military leadership, in addition to defense industry and technology executives. During this year’s forum, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and co-chair of the Senate Defense Modernization Caucus, participated in a panel entitled, “A Secure and Free Europe: NATO, Ukraine, and the Arsenal of Democracy.” “I’m not surprised a majority of Americans overall support Ukraine entering some sort of negotiation, even if it means giving up some territory,” said Cramer. “You asked if my party is united, and I think it’s pretty clear that we have a wide-range of views on the war in Ukraine, and more importantly on America’s continued support. […] I do go back to the Cold War lessons, but we should have learned lessons since then about how the fight generally comes to us if we’re not presenting a posture of strength that threatens the ability to go to them if they come to us.” Click here to watch the full panel The discussion, moderated by Karen DeYoung with The Washington Post, also featured Co-Founder and CEO of Anduril Industries Brian Schimpf, Sweden's Minister for Defense Pål Jonson, former Secretary of the U.S. Army Ryan McCarthy, and U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). Following the 2024 elections, priorities and leadership are shifting. The expected changes have led to questions regarding American global leadership, the role of NATO, and peace and stability in Europe nearly three years after Russia attacked Ukraine. The conversation centered around these transitions and how the United States can boost its capacity to serve as the arsenal of democracy. During a radio broadcast in 1940, in the midst of World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt used the term “arsenal of democracy” to signal the then-neutral United States would use all of its “immense industrial capacity to build the weapons of war needed by the last struggling democracies to save themselves, and the idea of democracy itself, from the threat of conquest by fascism and militarism in Europe and Asia.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/north-dakota-tribes-receive-more-than-32-million-for-water-infrastructure-projects,North Dakota Tribes Receive More Than $32 Million for Water Infrastructure Projects,2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"North Dakota Tribes Receive More Than $32 Million for Water Infrastructure Projects WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation awarded $32,482,941 for several projects in tribal nations across North Dakota to improve and strengthen water infrastructure. This funding was provided by the fully-paid-for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure, helped craft and negotiate. “North Dakota’s tribal nations need updated water infrastructure to meet the vital needs of their communities,” said Cramer. “These awards will modernize aging systems and protect the delivery of clean, reliable water across the state.” This funding will support the following projects: $11,482,871 to the Turtle Mountain Public Utility Commission (PUC) to enhance the efficiency and reliability of the water supply infrastructure, addressing the critical need for upgraded raw water collection lines. $10,831,393 to the Turtle Mountain PUC to replace the aging and failure-prone 200 class polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with new 250 class PVC. $5,029,945 to the Turtle Mountain PUC to replace glued PVC pipe with gasketed PVC pipe. $1,800,000 to the Fort Berthold Rural Water System to assist in the installation of master meters at key locations to facilitate the development of a reservation-wide automated meter reading system. $755,789 to Spirit Lake Rural Water for a project to eliminate the bottle neck restricting flow to areas of the town of Fort Totten. $700,000 for the Mandaree Community Metering Project, which will install 138 water meters in the Mandaree community. $530,496 to the Turtle Mountain PUC for the replacement of the water main at Reservoir C. $500,000 for the replacement of three Master Meter vaults and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition modernization to two Control Vaults on the Standing Rock Indian Reservation. $407,950 to Turtle Mountain PUC for the replacement of the water main at Reservoir C East. $275,268 to remove and replace the water filter media in the Spirit Lake Rural Water Treatment Plant’s Tonka Tank. $169,229 to replace all of the pneumatic valves in the Spirit Lake Rural Water Treatment Plant.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-attends-veterans-day-commemoration-ceremony-in-bismarck,Cramer Attends Veterans Day Commemoration Ceremony in Bismarck,2024-11-11,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here for media resources.*** BISMARCK, N.D. – As a tribute to veterans across North Dakota and the nation, a Veterans Day observance ceremony is held each year at the North Dakota Heritage Center in Bismarck to recognize the brave men and women who answered the call to serve. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, attended today’s ceremony, recognizing veterans for their heroic service and sacrifice in the defense of the nation. Cramer honored the generations of North Dakota veterans who have protected America’s freedoms around the world, as well as the service members who carry on that proud tradition today. North Dakota consistently ranks among the states with the highest concentration of military service members and veterans per capita. More than 56,000 veterans reside in North Dakota. “Today, we honor veterans across our state and nation for their incredible service and contributions to the security of the world,” said Cramer. “It is easy to take their service for granted because we live so well and have the luxury of peace every single day. We will never forget the heroic sacrifice of our veterans and will work to ensure their legacy of excellence and North Dakota’s culture of readiness translate into policy that supports and advances our military dominance across the globe.” The event was supported by a consortium of North Dakota veterans service organizations, including American Legion, AMVETS, Dakota Leathernecks, Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Vietnam Veterans of America, and the Dakota Sisterhood of Women Veterans. Cramer led and cosponsored several pieces of legislation to increase access to healthcare services and support for veterans. In February, Cramer introduced the Supporting Rural Veterans Access to Healthcare Services Act. This legislation would provide travel assistance to veterans living in rural areas for healthcare appointments authorized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). He also supported the TAP Promotion Act, the Combat Veterans Pre-Enrollment Act of 2023, and the Keeping Military Families Together Act of 2023 to improve veterans’ access to health and burial benefits.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-in-observance-of-veterans-day,Hoeven Statement in Observance of Veterans Day,2024-11-11,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Statement in Observance of Veterans Day BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement in recognition of Veterans Day. Hoeven, a member of the Senate Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Committee, remains committed to ensuring veterans receive the care and services they have earned. “Today and every day, we are indebted to the great American heroes who have fought to protect our nation. North Dakota has a rich tradition of military service and I remain committed to ensuring veterans receive the health care, benefits and recognition befitting of their service. God bless our veterans and their families.” Over the past year, Hoeven has met with North Dakota veterans as they participated in trips to Washington, D.C., where they were honored for their service and had the opportunity to visit the national war memorials and Arlington National Cemetery. At the same time, the senator has worked to: Secure funding and approval for enhancements at the Fargo National Cemetery (FNC), including wind walls, a storage building and a fully-developed restroom. Hoeven is also working with the National Cemetery Administration to: Accommodate facilities being developed by the Fargo Memorial Honor Guard. Expand FNC by 30 additional acres to provide adequate burial space for the future. Introduce and pass legislation to allow National Guard and Reserve members to be buried in state veterans cemeteries without those cemeteries losing access to federal grants. Help pass legislation to ensure that veterans from all eras suffering from conditions related to toxic exposure during their service receive the health care and benefits they have earned. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:02:12Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-as-we-work-to-unlock-our-energy-potential-airport-capacity-needed-to-support-a-growing-economy,"Hoeven: As we Work to Unlock our Energy Potential, Airport Capacity Needed To Support A Growing Economy",2024-11-07,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: As we Work to Unlock our Energy Potential, Airport Capacity Needed To Support A Growing Economy Senator Working to Secure Federal Funding for Dickinson Terminal Development Project DICKINSON, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today held a roundtable with members of the Dickinson Municipal Airport Authority and local leaders to discuss progress on developing a new terminal building for the Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport. As a member of the Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Committee, Hoeven helped launch this effort in 2022 and has since been working to advance the project, which will support increased air service capacity for the region. In addition to a new terminal building, the project includes a new apron, connecting taxiways, and a new parking lot. This expanded infrastructure will enable the airport to better accommodate increased demand for air service. From 2022 to 2023, enplanements at the Dickinson airport increased by more than 2,500 passengers, a nearly 12 percent increase. Dickinson is expected to begin the bidding process and construction in 2026. The estimated cost of the project is $46.5 million, with Hoeven working to secure federal funding to support the effort. This comes in addition to the nearly $50 million that Hoeven previously secured for the airport’s runway extension project, which was completed in 2023. “With the new administration incoming, we are well-positioned to strengthen our state’s economy, particularly as we lift the regulatory burden off of our energy industry and empower the development of all of our abundant energy resources,” said Hoeven. “It is critical that we have the infrastructure needed to support the demands of a growing economy, which is exactly why we have worked to advance airport expansions, like the new terminal project here in Dickinson. This effort complements the runway that was completed just last year, and we’re working to secure the federal funding needed to move this effort forward.” Today’s roundtable comes as part of Hoeven’s long-term efforts to support expansions at the state’s airports to accommodate population and economic growth, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of people and goods. In addition to Dickinson, the senator has worked to advance similar efforts across the state, including completed projects at airports in Williston and Minot, and he continues supporting Fargo’s airport terminal expansion project. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:02:12Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-outlines-priorities-to-restore-us-energy-dominance-at-gndc-conference,Hoeven Outlines Priorities to Restore U.S. Energy Dominance at GNDC Conference,2024-11-07,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Outlines Priorities to Restore U.S. Energy Dominance at GNDC Conference DICKINSON, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today addressed the Greater North Dakota Chamber’s (GNDC) Build & Beyond conference, where he outlined his priorities for the upcoming Congress and new administration. In particular, the senator discussed the need to unlock the nation’s energy potential, restore U.S. energy dominance and empower the country to utilize all of its abundant energy resources, including coal, oil and natural gas. To this end, Hoeven highlighted the importance of: Rescinding burdensome federal rules imposed during the Biden administration, which have locked away taxpayer-owned lands and minerals and increased energy production costs. Hoeven pointed to the regulatory relief previously provided under the Trump administration, which resulted in the U.S. becoming a net energy exporter, as the kind of policies that are needed to make the nation energy secure and bring down inflation. Ensuring more timely, less cost-prohibitive federal approvals for energy development and energy infrastructure projects. Accordingly, Hoeven is sponsoring: The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Mineral Spacing Act, which would remove duplicative BLM permitting regulations and better respect the rights of private mineral holders. The North American Energy Act, a bill to prevent unnecessary delays for important cross-border energy projects, such as pipelines and transmission lines. Legislation to streamline and set deadlines for multi-agency National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews of natural gas pipelines and liquid natural gas (LNG) projects needed to get energy to market. Supporting access to affordable and reliable baseload electricity, including from coal-fired power plants. Hoeven continues working to strengthen North Dakota’s role as a leader in the development of carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) technologies to help secure the future of the state’s coal industry. “Through regulatory relief, lower taxes and legal certainty, the U.S. can be energy dominant once again. We’ve proven this time and again, both in North Dakota and across the nation under the Trump administration,” said Hoeven “We can get there by rolling back the multitude of harmful policies imposed by the Biden administration on our energy industry, while advancing additional regulatory relief to streamline the federal approval process. That’s how we will empower our country to make good use of all of its abundant energy resources, including our vast coal, oil and gas reserves.” Advancing Regulatory Relief Hoeven discussed how the new Congress and incoming administration offer the opportunity to roll back overreaching and costly federal policies, such as those that: Target natural gas and coal-fired electric, including the: Methane Rule & Natural Gas Tax. Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) Rule. Clean Power Plan 2.0. Water Discharge Rule. Coal Ash Rule. Restrict access to, and increase the cost of developing, taxpayer-owned lands and resources, like the: Public Lands Rule. BLM’s Updated Resource Management Plan (RMP) for North Dakota. BLM Onshore Oil and Gas Rule. BLM Venting and Flaring Rule. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:02:12Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/army-corps-allocates-22-million-for-dredging-of-garrison-dam-spillway-approach,Army Corps Allocates $22 Million for Dredging of Garrison Dam Spillway Approach,2024-11-06,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) issued a contract announcement of $22,019,171 to HSG Park Joint Venture 2, LLC for dredging of the spillway approach at Garrison Dam near Riverdale. The work is expected to be completed by August 27, 2027. Built in 1953, the Garrison Dam is the second-most upstream project of six which were built on the mainstem of the upper Missouri River and has the largest reservoir storage capacity of all USACE projects in the nation. When combined with dams on the river’s tributaries, the projects reduce the risk of downstream flooding along the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. This mainstem system of dams is managed to balance hydropower generation, water supply, water quality, irrigation, fish and wildlife conservation, navigation, and recreation benefits.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-cramer-announces-mobile-office-hours-in-cando-and-towner,Sen. Cramer Announces Mobile Office Hours in Cando and Towner,2024-11-06,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) announced members of his staff will hold mobile office hours in Cando and Towner on Tuesday, November 19. “Since it’s not always possible for people to travel to my in-state offices, these mobile office opportunities help bring the services we offer closer to the constituents who need them,” said Cramer. “Having members of my staff in Cando and Towner will give North Dakotans more chances to explore solutions to the problems they face with people who are in a position to help.” Individuals from the Cando and Towner areas are encouraged to stop by the mobile office for help with veterans and Social Security benefits, Medicare difficulties, immigration issues, military records or medals, or other assistance with federal agencies. Mobile Office Hours – Tuesday, November 19 Towner County Courthouse 301 2nd St. Cando 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. CST McHenry County Courthouse 407 S Main St. Towner 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. CST Constituents should contact Cramer’s Constituent Services Representative, Brooke Doss, Brooke_Doss@cramer.senate.gov, for more information.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-more-than-22-million-allocated-for-garrison-dam-spill-way-dredging-by-army-corps,Hoeven: More Than $22 Million Allocated for Garrison Dam Spill Way Dredging by Army Corps,2024-11-06,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: More Than $22 Million Allocated for Garrison Dam Spill Way Dredging by Army Corps BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven announced today that a $22 million contract was awarded by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to the HSG Park Joint Venture 2, LLC for spillway approach dredging at Garrison Dam, where work is projected to be completed by August 27, 2027. “The Garrison Dam is critical infrastructure for our state, and this funding will help to ensure the dam delivers a reliable water supply for communities and agriculture, while supporting recreation and tourism,” said Hoeven. “A crucial purpose of the dam is to control Missouri River water levels and this project will help to reduce the risk of downstream flooding along the Missouri and Mississippi rivers to provide more certainty and security to the region.” -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:02:12Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-2024-election-results,Hoeven Statement on 2024 Election Results,2024-11-06,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Statement on 2024 Election Results BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement on the reelection of President Donald Trump and Senate Republicans reclaiming the Senate Majority: “We congratulate President Trump on his reelection and look forward to working together to advance the priorities important to North Dakotans – growing our economy, tackling inflation, unleashing American energy and supporting our small businesses, including North Dakota’s farmers and ranchers. At the same time, we’ll work to improve our national security by securing the border and continuing our efforts to rebuild our military. With President Trump in the White House and a Republican majority in the U.S. Senate, we look forward to working together on behalf of the American people.” -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:02:12Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/north-dakota-family-receives-purple-heart-quilt-of-valor,"North Dakota Family Receives Purple Heart, Quilt of Valor",2024-11-04,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here for more media resources. Click here for audio.*** BISMARCK, N.D. – The Missouri River Quilts of Valor (MRQV) hosted a ceremony today to recognize a North Dakota family for its military service. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) presented a replacement Purple Heart medal to honor the sacrifice of the family’s father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Private Franklin Joseph DuFrame, who gave his life in service to the nation in World War II. This replaces a previous Purple Heart awarded to Pvt. DuFrame, which had been lost. Cramer, a member of the Senate Committee on Armed Services and the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, presented the Purple Heart medal to Pvt. DuFrame’s son, Donald Franklin DuFrame of Lincoln, also a veteran, who enlisted in the Navy Reserve at 18 as a machinist mate 3rd class during the Vietnam War from 1962 to 1967. He was based in LPD-1 at Portsmouth, VA. Cramer also presented the family with a flag flown over the United States Capitol in honor of Pvt. DuFrame’s heroic service. “The Purple Heart is a tangible legacy to the heroic service and selfless sacrifice of Franklin DuFrame during WWII,” said Cramer. “It was important that we obtain this replacement medal that Franklin earned and Don desperately sought as a tribute and connection to the father he never knew. The medal symbolizes incredible sacrifice, and it is important we never forget the gravity of that sacrifice and ensure that future generations know the real price of freedom.” The ceremony also included the presentation of the Vietnam War Commemorative Lapel Pin to recognize Donald DuFrame’s service, and a Quilt of Valor made by MRQV members. A Quilt of Valor is a handmade quilt awarded to a service member or veteran who has been “touched by war.” “I see in this Purple Heart how my dad gave his life for our country and our freedoms,” said Donald DuFrame. “This recognition is so overwhelming, and having this medal means a lot to me and my family. I have more information about my dad now than I have had my entire life.” Alice Delzer, AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary president and chaplain, delivered the invocation at the event, which was followed by a Posting of the Colors by the AMVETS Post #9 Honor Guard. The event featured opening remarks by MRQV group leader, Arlene Meissel, and Alice Delzer led the attendees in singing “God Bless America.” Donald DuFrame, his daughter, Shananne DuFrame, and his granddaughter, Breeanna DuFrame, attended the ceremony, along with other family members. Breeanna reached out to Cramer’s office in June requesting assistance with obtaining a replacement for a lost Purple Heart medal originally awarded to her great-grandfather, Franklin. Breeanna, who is very close to her grandfather, Donald, knew he had been searching for this medal and wanted to help him obtain a replacement. “I never thought we would have gotten this far and found out as much as we have about Franklin,” said Breeanna DuFrame. “My grandpa [Donald DuFrame] is my entire world. I don’t know where I would be without him or my mom. I’m so thankful we were able to make this happen for Grandpa. We are so appreciative of everything you and your team have done to make this possible for my grandpa. I cannot express how thankful and grateful I am.” “I am so grateful for everyone that has put efforts into this, and for my dad [Donald DuFrame] to have this opportunity in his lifetime to have something so precious and dear in remembrance of his dad [Franklin DuFrame] and his service and dedication to our freedoms,” said Shananne DuFrame. “I am so super proud of my daughter, Breeanna, for pursuing this. We thank you so very much! We’ve gotten so much more information about my grandpa, when we never thought we’d know much of anything.” Born in August 1920 in Maine, Pvt. Franklin DuFrame served in the U.S. Army, C Company, 10th Infantry Battalion, 4th Armored Division. He was married to Elma Leona Helman DuFrame, and they had three children. On March 24, 1945, he was wounded in action and transported to an evacuation hospital in Bad Kreuznach, Germany. Pvt. DuFrame died of his wounds two days later on March 26 at the age of 24. He was temporarily interned at the military cemetery in Stromberg and permanently laid to rest, at his family’s request, at the Lorraine American War Cemetery in France. Prior to Breeanna DuFrame’s outreach to Cramer’s office, the family knew very little about Pvt. DuFrame’s service beyond the date of his death and final resting place. His service records were among those lost in the National Personnel Records Center fire in St. Louis. Cramer’s office received a 44-page copy of the formal report of Franklin’s death and a copy of an inventory of his belongings, in addition to correspondence between the Department of the Army, his wife, Elma, and Pvt. DuFrame’s father regarding the final resting place for his remains. In addition, a photo of Pvt. DuFrame was added to a Fields of Honor database recognizing fallen American service members, and his grave has been adopted by a local resident who will be responsible for its care and maintenance.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/letter-to-president-biden-calls-for-intervention-in-china-adoption-program-termination,Letter to President Biden Calls for Intervention in China Adoption Program Termination,2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – In August, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) halted all international adoptions, except those between blood relatives. Prior to the announcement, approximately 300 children in the PRC had been matched with American families in the adoption process. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a co-chair of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption, joined U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Ben Cardin (D-MD), and a bipartisan, bicameral group of 103 members of Congress in sending a letter to President Joe Biden, calling on him to stand up for families navigating the PRC’s decision to end intercountry adoptions for those without Chinese familial ties. “We request that you act in the best interest of these children and families by urging the PRC to fulfill and uphold the commitment the country has made,” the lawmakers wrote. “The American families that have been matched with their adoptive children are prepared to meet their long-term medical and emotional needs, and to give them the love and nurturing they need,” they continued. “Many of these children know that they have a home, which in many cases have been prepared for their arrival since the families were notified that they were matched and moving forward with the adoption process.” Previously, Cramer joined his Congressional Coalition on Adoption co-chairs in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of State requesting clarification on details of the decision to halt adoptions, as well as the reasoning for China’s decision.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/usda-awards-nearly-500000-to-dakota-angus-llc,"USDA Awards Nearly $500,000 to Dakota Angus, LLC",2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced an award of nearly $500,000 to Dakota Angus, LLC. This funding, awarded through the Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP), will add up to five new routes for farm to consumer beef distributions and expand wholesale business through grocery stores, food hubs, convenient stores, and schools in underserved markets. The award will expand market opportunities for livestock producers, create additional local jobs, and diversify consumers’ options. Dakota Angus, located in Drake, which represents two, third-generation livestock farms, has incorporated a value-added farm to its consumer beef program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/dot-awards-12-million-for-two-north-dakota-bridge-improvement-projects,DOT Awards $12 Million for Two North Dakota Bridge Improvement Projects,2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced the award of $12,100,000 to the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) for two bridge replacement and reconstruction projects. These funds were made available through the Bridge Investment Program (BIP) and will be distributed to the following projects: $9,400,000 for the Safe and Resilient Passages at Standing Rock Project. The NDDOT, in cooperation with local communities and stakeholders from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, is planning to replace two bridges along North Dakota Highway 1806 in Morton and Sioux counties: the Backwater Bridge over Canta Peta Creek and the Cannonball River Bridge. $2,700,000 for the Viking Bridge Reconstruction Project. The Viking Bridge is in fair condition, but at risk of falling into poor condition within the next three years. The new bridge is designed to meet current standards by widening the sidewalk, expanding the travel area, and incorporating a non-mountable traffic barrier. The bridge design will include measures to prevent scouring and enhance resilience against flooding events. “Bridges are critical for the safe and efficient movement of people and goods across North Dakota and beyond,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure. “These projects will enhance safety, support local growth, and ensure reliable infrastructure for years to come.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/dot-awards-over-20-million-to-red-river-valley-and-western-for-safety-and-capacity-upgrades,DOT Awards Over $20 Million to Red River Valley & Western for Safety and Capacity Upgrades,2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced an award of $20,714,004 through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program to the Red River Valley & Western Railroad (RRVW) Company for safety upgrades under the Safety Enhancements and Capacity Upgrades for Reliability and Efficiency (SECURE) Project. Specifically, the grant will replace 25 miles of century-old rail on RRVW’s 3rd Subdivision between Gwinner and Oakes, and construct two new sidings to hold trains near Casselton. The track infrastructure upgrades will improve safety and enhance the transport of grain and other commodities to market for producers, strengthening North Dakota’s agricultural supply chain. For many communities in North Dakota, the RRVW serves as shippers’ only connection to the national rail network, underscoring the importance of providing reliable service. “North Dakota is an export-driven economy, and our commodities need safe, reliable rail service to get goods to market,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure. “Red River Valley & Western’s network is a critical artery for agriculture producers in Eastern North Dakota and this investment will improve the service it provides.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/us-department-of-transportation-awards-1-million-to-grand-forks-international-airport,U.S. Department of Transportation Awards $1 Million to Grand Forks International Airport,2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Transportation announced an award of $1 million through the Small Community Air Service Development Program (SCASDP) to the Grand Forks International Airport. Specifically, this award will assist the airport with revenue guarantee, start-up costs, ground handling offsets and associated marketing plan to recruit, initiate, and support new nonstop service between Grand Forks and Denver International Airport via SkyWest Airlines. “The Grand Forks International Airport is an essential transportation hub for the northern Red River Valley,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure. “A region can only grow with quality air service and quality air service can only grow with a quality airport.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-announces-more-than-20-million-for-rail-safety-and-performance-improvements-in-north-dakota,Hoeven Announces More than $20 Million for Rail Safety and Performance Improvements in North Dakota,2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Announces More than $20 Million for Rail Safety and Performance Improvements in North Dakota BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Transportation Appropriations Committee, today announced that the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Railroad Administration has awarded $20,714,004 to the Red River Valley & Western Railroad Company to replace 25 miles of rail between Gwinner and Oakes, and construct two new sidings to hold trains near Casselton. “North Dakota’s economy is dependent on freight transportation, including rail, to ship bulk agricultural commodities, energy products and manufactured goods,” said Hoeven. “This funding will help rehabilitate aging rail and ensure that our producers in the region can continue to get their products to market safely and efficiently. Improving the railroad network in our state is vitally important to helping to grow North Dakota’s economy.” The North Dakota delegation wrote a letter earlier this year to the Department of Transportation to help secure the grant. Click here for the letter. This funding was made available through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program to ensure rail transportation remains safe and reliable. This will be the third consecutive round of CRISI that RRVW has been awarded. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-holds-meeting-between-head-of-defense-acquisitions-northern-plains-uas-test-site-and-grandsky,"Hoeven Holds Meeting Between Head of Defense Acquisitions, Northern Plains UAS Test Site & GrandSKY",2024-10-31,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Holds Meeting Between Head of Defense Acquisitions, Northern Plains UAS Test Site & GrandSKY Senator Working to Increase Size & Scope of Project ULTRA, Leverage FAA Unfiltered Radar Data Feed to Build North Dakota’s UAS Ecosystem MINOT, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today met with Dr. William LaPlante, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, and leaders from the Northern Plains Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Test Site and GrandSKY to discuss opportunities for North Dakota to meet imminent defense needs in unmanned aircraft and counter-UAS technologies. Hoeven stressed: The need to increase the size and scope of Project ULTRA. Hoeven has been advancing Project ULTRA as the funding vehicle to support counter-UAS development. Project ULTRA can serve as a bridge between an existing DoD contracting vehicle and new counter-UAS capabilities being developed in the private sector. The senator previously discussed this priority at the UAS Summit in Grand Forks with Gen. David Stewart, who is leading the effort to protect against the misuse of unmanned aircraft across all military branches. The senator has also been working with Air Combat Command (ACC) Commander Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Charles Q. Brown to address this critical Department of Defense (DoD) priority. The opportunity to leverage the Northern Plains UAS Test Site’s access to the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) unfiltered radar data feed to grow North Dakota’s UAS ecosystem. The data feed will allow unmanned aircraft operating under the test site to safely fly where other state’s test sites could not, serving as a strong draw for private industry to operate in the state. The feed will also empower the test site to detect malicious or unlawful UAS traffic, helping make North Dakota the premiere location for counter-UAS technology development. How Project ULTRA and the FAA radar feed offer greater opportunities to develop methods for protecting domestic U.S. military bases against potential UAS threats. The combination of these tools will enable the rapid testing of capabilities to detect, track and counter UAS in a real-world environment at an active duty Air Force Base, using the airspace managed by the Northern Plains UAS Test Site. In addition to Hoeven and LaPlante, the meeting included the following stakeholders, giving them the opportunity to discuss these potential partnerships in greater detail: Trevor Woods, Executive Director of the Northern Plains UAS Test Site. Chris Hewlett, Director of Project ULTRA at GrandSKY. Everett Dunnick, Director of Special Programs at Northern Plains UAS Test Site. “Project ULTRA and the FAA’s unfiltered radar feed are a tremendous opportunity for the DoD and North Dakota, giving our state a key role in developing, testing and demonstrating counter-UAS technologies, which are critically needed to ensure the security of our military facilities and personnel both at home and abroad. In order to get there, we’re working to build upon the initial $18 million contract and leverage the radar feed to attract more private industry partners to our state,” said Hoeven. “That’s exactly what today’s meeting is about, as well as highlighting a variety of potential partnerships between DoD, our UAS ecosystem and private industry that will enable us to quickly test and field new counter-UAS capabilities.” Today’s meeting builds upon Hoeven’s ongoing work with LaPlante to better utilize resources in North Dakota to advance critical military priorities, such as counter-UAS and nuclear modernization. Earlier this month, the Under Secretary provided video remarks at the UAS Summit in Grand Forks at Hoeven’s invitation, where he reinforced the importance of UAS and counter-UAS to future DoD operations. In addition, Hoeven previously helped introduce and pass legislation to support the development of counter-UAS technology and protect important facilities from potential misuse of unmanned aircraft. Hoeven is now sponsoring a bill to renew and expand upon the authorities created under this law. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/north-dakota-family-to-receive-the-purple-heart-quilt-of-valor-in-honor-of-wwii-hero,"North Dakota Family to Receive the Purple Heart, Quilt of Valor in Honor of WWII Hero",2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Ceremony to be held Nov. 4 at the AMVETS in Bismarck ***Click here to download audio.*** BISMARCK, N.D. – A ceremony will be held on Monday, Nov. 4 in Bismarck to present a Purple Heart medal to honor the service and sacrifice of Private Franklin Joseph DuFrame, who gave his life in service to our nation in World War II. The replacement medal will be presented to Pvt. DuFrame’s son, Donald Franklin DuFrame of Lincoln, who served and enlisted in the Navy Reserve at 18 as a machinist mate 3rd class during the Vietnam War from 1962 to 1967. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate committees on Armed Services and Veterans’ Affairs, will present the family with a Purple Heart medal to honor and recognize the sacrifices of Franklin DuFrame. This replaces a previous Purple Heart awarded to Pvt. DuFrame, which had been lost. Cramer will present the family with a flag flown over the United States Capitol in honor of Pvt. DuFrame’s heroic service. The ceremony will also include the presentation of the Vietnam Commemorative Pin to recognize Donald DuFrame’s service, and a Quilt of Valor by Missouri River Quilts of Valor members. Purple Heart medals are awarded to service members who are wounded or killed because of enemy action in an armed conflict. It is the nation’s oldest military honor still awarded today, and was established by President George Washington as the Badge of Military Merit in 1782. “This Purple Heart medal is much more than an award; it’s really a symbol of our nation’s eternal gratitude for Franklin DuFrame’s bravery, and heroism, and sacrifice,” said Cramer. “Private DuFrame gave his life for our country, and it's really an honor for me to be able to present his family with this replacement medal to recognize his valiant service. It’s a repeated honor that I get to have as a member of Congress to intervene on behalf of a family who lost just a small part, but an important part, of their loved one’s legacy. This award represents that legacy, and it's something tangible they can hang on to and that they can pass down to generation after generation as they tell the story of dad, of grandpa, of great-grandpa, of great-great-grandpa's legacy in historical contribution to the freedom of America. It's just a privilege and a joy.” Born in August 1920 in Maine, Pvt. DuFrame served in the U.S. Army, C Company, 10th Infantry Battalion, 4th Armored Division. He was married to Elma Leona Helman DuFrame, and they had three children. On March 24, 1945, he was wounded in action and transported to an evacuation hospital in Bad Kreuznach, Germany. Pvt. DuFrame died of his wounds two days later on March 26 at the age of 24. He was temporarily interned at the military cemetery in Stromberg and permanently laid to rest, at his family’s request, at the Lorraine American War Cemetery in France. The ceremony, which is open to the public, will be held Monday, Nov. 4 at 6:30 p.m. CT at AMVETS Post #9, 2402 Railroad Ave., Bismarck.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-century-view-will-provide-40-families-with-affordable-housing-helping-address-one-of-north-dakotas-greatest-needs,"Hoeven: Century View Will Provide 40 Families With Affordable Housing, Helping Address One of North Dakota’s Greatest Needs",2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: Century View Will Provide 40 Families With Affordable Housing, Helping Address One of North Dakota’s Greatest Needs BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today marked the grand opening of the Century View affordable housing complex. The $11.2 million project primarily serves low-income families and individuals, consisting of 40 housing units across three apartment buildings with three-, two- and one-bedroom floor plans available, as well as an additional community building. Amenities include balconies and walk-out patios, in-unit laundry, outdoor green space, a community room and kitchen and office space. The project is supported by more than $3 million in federal funding, which Hoeven worked to secure as a member of the Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriation Committee. This includes: $2.25 million in Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds. $813,000 in Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), which were leveraged by the project developer to secure an estimated $7 million in project equity. Ongoing support from Section 8 housing vouchers, which will provide rental assistance to eligible residents. “Century View will serve as an important asset for the Bismarck community, providing 40 families with affordable housing and helping address one of the biggest challenges our communities face. This project is now a reality, with amenities that any tenant would want, because the developers were able to leverage more than $3 million of federal funding to secure private investment of $7 million,” said Hoeven. “Through partnerships like this, we can provide the affordable, high-quality housing stock that our state needs, supporting our ongoing growth and a higher quality of life.” Century View is the latest example of affordable housing efforts Hoeven has helped advance through his support for federal programs like HOME, LIHTC and other initiatives. Earlier this year, Hoeven marked the completion of the Milton Earl Apartments in Fargo, which serve low-income seniors, and he continues working to support development of the Lashkowitz Riverfront Project, among other efforts. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-requests-answers-on-usda-eid-tag-mandate-resources-for-ranchers-amidst-federal-support-shortfall,"Cramer Requests Answers on USDA EID Tag Mandate, Resources for Ranchers Amidst Federal Support Shortfall",2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Final Rule mandating the use of electronic identification (EID) tags on certain cattle and bison will take effect on Nov. 5. Approximately 300,000 tags will be needed for North Dakota ranchers to meet USDA’s EID mandate and brucellosis program, but USDA will only allocate 116,000 tags to the North Dakota State Veterinarian to meet the EID mandate. USDA told the State Veterinarian it will no longer lend support to ranchers for the brucellosis program, or “bangs,” and ranchers will be expected to cover the shortfall in bangs tags. These tags are an important tool for animal disease traceability in livestock. USDA’s decision to only fund EID tags for interstate movement, and not brucellosis, creates an unfunded mandate and leaves a nearly $500,000 shortfall. This goes against a longstanding commitment from USDA to assist producers forced to comply with its regulations. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) wrote a letter to USDA requesting answers on the funding shortfall and stressed the need to allocate resources to ranchers for EID compliance. “Animal disease traceability (ADT) efforts are critical for protecting our nation’s herds, but new mandates should not erode the ability to carry out existing programs,” wrote Cramer. “If USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is serious about its mission to protect against disease that could harm our nation’s livestock, it should recognize the importance of maintaining federal support for bangs and abide by its decades-old obligation to supply tags needed for ADT programs. “Without APHIS’ support, ranchers are forced to deal with an unfunded mandate on top of historically high input costs,” continued Cramer. “I look forward to your answers and clarification on these important and timely matters. In the near-term, I strongly urge USDA to allocate the resources needed by our ranchers to become compliant with the upcoming EID tag mandate. Going forward, USDA should also reconsider how it determines states’ allocations. It is critical we support our ranchers who produce a reliable source of the highest-quality meat in the world.” Cramer previously recognized the importance of protecting herds from diseases. Earlier this year, he cosponsored and voted in favor of a Congressional Review Act after the Biden administration moved to allow the importation of fresh Paraguayan beef after a 25 year ban. In 2021, Cramer joined a bipartisan group of Senate colleagues in sending a letter to USDA in support of the cattle industry’s requests to suspend fresh beef imports from Brazil following cases of atypical spongiform encephalopathy.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-meets-with-us-japanese-forces-deploying-global-hawk-reaper-missions,"Hoeven Meets With US-Japanese Forces Deploying Global Hawk, Reaper Missions",2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Meets With US-Japanese Forces Deploying Global Hawk, Reaper Missions Grand Forks Air Force Base and GrandSKY Play Growing Role in Missions to Deter Chinese Aggression BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven traveled to U.S. bases in Okinawa and mainland Japan to meet with U.S. military forces and to expand on his work making Grand Forks the leader in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). Grand Forks Air Force Base and GrandSKY Technology Park play an increasing role in providing Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities to the U.S. military, and these efforts are vital to U.S. efforts to counter Chinese military aggression. Senator Hoeven traveled with Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas, both of whom are members of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee which funds all U.S. military activities. Misawa Air Force Base and Hachinohe Air Station Misawa Air Force Base in northern Japan is home to the U.S. Air Forces’s 35th Fighter Wing, along with associated units from the U.S. Army, Navy and Space Force as well as the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). At Misawa, the U.S. Air Force with help from Northrop Grumman and its facilities at GrandSKY Technology Park, is standing up Global Hawk operations for the JASDF. Assistance being coordinated out of GrandSKY Technology Park includes flight planning and communications. The Test Resource Management Center (TRMC) at GrandSKY is developing and testing other equipment and upgrades to the Global Hawk that will further enhance assistance to the JASDF. “The work to stand up a Japanese unit of Global Hawks has been under way for over a year now and it is now working toward its Initial Operating Capability (IOC),” said Hoeven. “Japan is a vital ally, and this mission is another example of how we work together to counter Chinese military aggression.” At Hachinohe Air Station, a Japanese Coast Guard Base near Misawa AFB, Hoeven and Moran joined with General Atomics (GA) President Dave Alexander and other key GA team members to review MQ-9 Reaper flight operations that GA is conducting on behalf of Japan’s Coast Guard. General Atomics is also working to stand up Reaper units for the JASDF and Japanese pilots will be coming to GrandSKY Technology Park as soon as next year for MQ-9 training. “Japan is buying the latest version of the Reaper, the MQ-9B, and we will train their pilots to fly these aircraft at GrandSKY,” Hoeven said. “Again, this is not only a win for our country by working with our ally to push back on China but a win for North Dakota, which plays a key role in helping to make it happen.” Yokota Air Force Base Hoeven visited Yokota Air Force Base, headquarters for United States Forces Japan (USFJ), where he met with Lt. General Stephen Jost, USFJ commander, as well as Colonel Richard McElhaney, installation commander for Yokota, who briefed Hoeven on plans to forward deploy Global Hawks from the 319th Reconnaissance Wing at Grand Forks AFB and provided a tour of prospective facilities at the base. The 319th currently deploys Global Hawks to Andersen AFB in Guam. “General Jost shares a Minot connection with me as he was born there when his father was stationed at Minot Air Force Base,” Hoeven said. “He and Colonel McElhaney provided us with a good tour and information on the important role that our Global Hawks from the 319th at Grand Forks provide in support of Air Force efforts to gather intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance in the region. The Global Hawks of the 319th will be better able to fulfill these missions, including tracking the Chinese military, with the new forward basing plan. There is more work we need to do to make it happen, but I believe we will get it done.” Kadena Air Force Base and Camp Hansen Marine Corps Base Hoeven met with Brigadier General Nicholas Evans at Kadena AFB in Okinawa which is the largest U.S. Air Force Base in the Pacific and home to not only U.S. Air Force aircraft but Navy and Marine Corps aircraft as well. Hoeven has worked to provide MQ-9 Reaper ISR assets to the Marine Corps and they are in process of standing up one of the first MQ-9 units at Kadena. At Camp Hansen, Hoeven met with Lieutenant General Roger Turner, commander of the Third Marine Expeditionary Force, which includes more than 20,000 Marines on Okinawa. As part of his discussions with Turner, Hoeven attended Operation “Keen Sword” a U.S.-Japan military exercise designed to enhance our joint capability to jointly respond to potential Chinese aggression in the region. “We not only had a chance to see Camp Hansen but also an active military exercise being conducted by U.S. and Japanese forces in the region to counteract simulated aggression by the PRC military. The professionalism and capabilities of our Marines are truly impressive. Another highlight was meeting some outstanding young marines from North Dakota,” Hoeven said. Meetings with Japanese leaders to Expand Military and Agriculture Trade Relationship Hoeven and Moran also met with Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya to further strengthen joint military operations between the U.S. and Japan. Japan is both buying and co-producing vital defense systems with the U.S., like the F-35 Advanced Fighter Aircraft. Japan and the United States are also working to establish a joint command structure that will significantly enhance the ability of the two nations to work together to secure the Indo-Pacific region. “Defense Minister Nakatani and Foreign Minister Iwaya expressed strong support for the U.S. military and their desire to continue to increase our joint operations to push back on China. Also Defense Minister Nakatani in particular emphasized his support for the work we are doing to help Japan develop UAS capabilities. Our work in North Dakota with the U.S. Air Force and Space Force, as well as General Atomics, Northrop Grumman and other leading aerospace companies, is vitally important to building U.S. defense capabilities,” said Hoeven. “In addition, by building these new weapon systems and operating them jointly with an ally like Japan, we really leverage our efforts. Not only are we stronger together as allies, but Japan has the technology and capability to help us build and pay for the advanced systems we need to stay ahead of adversaries like China,” Hoeven continued. Senators Hoeven and Moran also met with agricultural officials in Japan. Japan is the number one market for U.S. beef, the second largest for U.S. corn and the third largest for U.S. soybeans. In addition, Japan is one of the largest markets for U.S. wheat, particularly hard wheat which is predominantly grown in North Dakota. Senator Hoeven continued his efforts to expand these markets for North Dakota farmers and pressed the case to open the Japanese market for U.S. fresh (table) potatoes as well, which would be a large market with projected sales of up to $150 million per year. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-honors-members-of-1-188th-ada-regiment-bravo-batteryat-welcome-home-ceremony,"Hoeven Honors Members of 1-188th ADA Regiment, Bravo Battery at Welcome Home Ceremony",2024-10-27,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Honors Members of 1-188th ADA Regiment, Bravo Battery at Welcome Home Ceremony GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven thanked members of the North Dakota National Guard’s (NDNG) 1-188th Air Defense Artillery (ADA) Regiment, Bravo Battery after returning from a 10-month deployment to the U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) area of responsibility in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, which is the U.S. military’s operational name for the international war against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). While deployed, the battery provided integrated air defense coverage and early warning in support of a battalion task force. “The Battery’s deployment to USCENTCOM helped keep our country and their fellow servicemembers safe for nearly a year,” said Hoeven. “The National Guard represents the finest men and women in our country and the work they do each and every day to protect our nation, both in communities across our state and abroad, does not go unnoticed. We remain committed to supporting efforts that strengthen and support the National Guard, including policies that help ensure Guardsmen receive the benefits and recognition they’ve earned. It is an honor to welcome home these Guard members today and thank them for their service.” This was the 13th deployment for the 1-188th ADA since 2004, making it the most deployed unit in the North Dakota National Guard. Bravo Battery is led by Captain Nicholas Kindelspire and First Sergeant Michael Travis and was responsible for ensuring early warning, detection and defeat of enemy aerial systems and projectiles. During the deployment, Bravo Battery successfully defended against 57 separate attacks from 37 one-way unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and over 110 rockets. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/us-department-of-education-awards-19-million-to-turtle-mountain-community-college,U.S. Department of Education Awards $1.9 Million to Turtle Mountain Community College,2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Education announced an award of $1,922,389 to Turtle Mountain Community College for a research and development infrastructure project. Specifically, this project will improve research and development activities, including infrastructure, faculty development, and undergraduate research opportunities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-merkley-request-update-from-army-corps-on-initiating-the-western-water-cooperative-committee,"Cramer, Merkley Request Update from Army Corps on Initiating the Western Water Cooperative Committee",2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2022 included bipartisan language from U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee, and Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chairman of the Senate EPW Subcommittee on Chemical Safety, Waste Management, Environmental Justice, and Regulatory Oversight, directing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to establish the Western Water Cooperative Committee (WWCC). The purpose of the WWCC is to ensure the USACE flood control projects in western states are operated consistent with congressional directives and adhere to state water rights and water laws. The legislation was signed into law December 2022, and in March 2024, Congress fully funded the committee. During an EPW Committee hearing in February, Cramer asked Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Mike Connor for a status update on the WWCC. In his response, Connor stated, “We’re teed up ready to go, but we do need the resources to implement.” Less than two weeks later, Congress fully funded the WWCC, but more than half a year later, it has not been established. Cramer and Merkley sent a letter today to the USACE requesting an update on the WWCC. “The Committee was created to ensure Army Corps water projects in Western states adhere to applicable state water rights and water laws,” the senators wrote. “It also provides a critical platform of dialogue for western states to better coordinate with the Army Corps. We firmly believe the increased communication and transparency will facilitate improved collaboration. Western states across the political spectrum were advocates of this committee and are anxiously awaiting its commencement.” “Within 30 days, we request an update on the implementation of the directive outlined in WRDA 2022 as well as a specific timeline for when the Committee will be formally established and conduct its first meeting,” the senators concluded.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-cramer-faa-awards-nearly-3-million-for-terminal-expansion-projects-at-north-dakota-airports,Sen. Cramer: FAA Awards Nearly $3 Million for Terminal Expansion Projects at North Dakota Airports,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced an award of $2,950,000 to support terminal expansion projects at the following North Dakota airports: $2,000,000 to Hector International Airport for Phase 3 of a project to construct four new gates, rehabilitate holding rooms, and expand ticket and baggage handling areas. In August, the North Dakota delegation wrote a letter to DOT in support of the project. $950,000 to Northwood Municipal Airport-Vince Field for a new 650 square foot general aviation terminal building to meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. “This award is a step toward the completion of the expansion projects at Hector International Airport, giving Fargo residents and visitors coming to North Dakota a better, safer travel experience,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure. “Enhanced infrastructure projects like these help improve safety, increase air service capacity, and support economic growth in North Dakota.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-to-introduce-legislation-combatting-israels-persecution-at-the-united-nations,Senators to Introduce Legislation Combatting Israel’s Persecution at the United Nations,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Click here to download audio. BISMARCK, N.D. – During a United Nations (U.N.) emergency special session in May, the General Assembly adopted a resolution upgrading Palestine to a “Permanent Observer State.” This allows Palestine to participate in all U.N. proceedings, increasing the Palestinian Authority’s ability to deny or dilute Israel’s status in the organization. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, in announcing their intent to introduce the Stand with Israel Act once the Senate and House reconvene in a few weeks. This legislation prohibits U.S. funding to U.N. agencies which expel, downgrade, suspend, or otherwise restrict the participation of the State of Israel. In a September speech at the U.N. General Assembly, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas indicated the Palestinian Authority would attempt to downgrade Israel’s status at the U.N. “The United States must unequivocally support Israel’s right to defend itself,”said Cramer. “If the United Nations moves to expel, downgrade, suspend, or restrict Israel’s participation in any way, it should not receive a cent from the American taxpayer. We have to stand by our strongest ally in the Middle East and really push back against these deliberate, antisemitic attempts to punish Israel for simply defending its own existence.” “Any attempt to alter Israel’s status at the UN is clearly anti-Semitic,”said Ranking Member Risch. “That said, if the UN member states allow the Palestinian Authority and the Palestine Liberation Organization to downgrade Israel’s status at the UN, the U.S. must stop supporting the UN system, as it would clearly be beyond repair. I am disgusted that this outrageous idea has even been discussed, and will do all I can to ensure any changes to Israel’s status will come with consequences.” The Stand with Israel Act has been endorsed by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, FDD Action, Republican Jewish Coalition, Endowment for Middle East Truth, Christians United for Israel, Heritage Action, Combat Antisemitism Movement, and Jewish Institute for National Security of America. Additional cosponsors of the legislation include U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Ted Budd (R-NC), Shelly Moore Capito (R-WV), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Ron Johnson (R-WI), John Kennedy (R-LA), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), John Thune (R-SD), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Roger Wicker (R-MS).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-doe-awards-486-million-in-support-of-project-tundra,Hoeven: DOE Awards $48.6 Million in Support of Project Tundra,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: DOE Awards $48.6 Million in Support of Project Tundra WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee, today announced that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded more than $48.6 million in support of Project Tundra, a carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) effort led by Minnkota Power Cooperative. The funding is being awarded to the DCC East Project in Grand Forks. “North Dakota has always been a leader in energy innovation and now with Project Tundra, we’re leading the technology development of carbon capture and storage on a traditional coal-fired power plant,” said Hoeven. “Project Tundra is vital to the future of our lignite industry, and will help ensure we have the reliability and affordability of coal-fired electric power today and for future generations.” Hoeven has worked to advance Project Tundra to provide a way forward for the state’s coal-fired electric industry. Last year, Minnkota and Hoeven announced that Project Tundra had entered its final stage of development as new affiliates, including TC Energy, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Kiewit, were added to build the project. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-nearly-3-million-awarded-tofargo-and-northwood-airports-for-terminal-expansions,Hoeven: Nearly $3 Million Awarded to Fargo & Northwood Airports for Terminal Expansions,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: Nearly $3 Million Awarded to Fargo & Northwood Airports for Terminal Expansions WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Transportation Appropriations Committee, today announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is awarding Hector International Airport and Northwood Municipal Airport-Vince Field nearly $3 million for terminal expansion projects. Specifically, these grants include: $2,000,000 to Hector International Airport to construct four new gates, rehabilitate and expand holding rooms, and expand the ticket and baggage handling area. Senator Hoeven is working to fulfill the project’s federal cost share, now having secured nearly $36 million for the effort to date. $950,000 to Northwood Municipal Airport-Vince Field for a new 650-square-foot general aviation terminal building to meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. “The Fargo-Moorhead and Northwood regions are rapidly growing, both in terms of population and in economic activity. That means greater demand for air service and the need for updates and added facilities at Hector International and Northwood Airports,” said Hoeven. “This FAA funding supports both terminal expansion projects that will help to ensure North Dakotans are able to fly efficiently and safely throughout our state and country.” In August of this year Senator Hoeven led the North Dakota delegation in sending a letter to the Department of Transportation requesting support from the Airport Terminals Program for Fargo’s terminal expansion project. Full text of the letter can be found here. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-cramer-department-of-energy-awards-nearly-49-million-for-project-tundra-construction,Sen. Cramer: Department of Energy Awards Nearly $49 Million for Project Tundra Construction,2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Click here to download audio. BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Energy Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management announced the award of nearly $49 million to DCC East Project LLC in Grand Forks to construct a large-scale geologic carbon storage facility in support of Project Tundra. The project will add full-time equivalent jobs to the already existing 360 jobs at Minnkota’s Milton R. Young Station and the adjacent coal mine. “Project Tundra really is the embodiment of North Dakota’s energy dominance and, more importantly, innovation, and the state’s commitment to lignite coal always being available, low-cost, reliable, abundant and a chosen, clean form of generating electricity,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee. “This award recognizes that leadership in responsible energy development and it gets this important project one step closer to completion.” This project, funded by the fully-paid-for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will support the Carbon Storage Assurance Facility Enterprise (CarbonSAFE) Initiative. Established in 2016, the CarbonSAFE Initiative aims to address gaps in carbon capture and storage deployment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-cramer-usda-awards-200000-to-the-rural-electric-and-telecommunications-development-center,"Sen. Cramer: USDA Awards $200,000 to the Rural Electric and Telecommunications Development Center",2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development announced an award of $200,000 to the Rural Electric and Telecommunications Development Center, which operates under the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives and the Broadband Association of North Dakota. This investment allows the center to offer services to businesses and cooperatives such as technical assistance, financing, education, consultation, enhancing economic development and providing a higher quality of life in rural areas across North Dakota.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/nddot-receives-20-million-to-improve-safety-with-freight-reliability-preservation-on-us-52-route,"NDDOT Receives $20 Million to Improve Safety with Freight Reliability, Preservation on US 52 Route",2024-10-16,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here for audio.*** BISMARCK, N.D. – The North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) received a $20,000,000 award through the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant program. This funding will help NDDOT enhance the US 52 route by adding railroad bypass lanes, improving safety, and increasing the efficiency of passenger and freight transportation across the state. Specifically, this project will rehabilitate approximately 45 miles of existing asphalt pavement from west of Drake to Fessenden, consolidate access points at the intersection of US 52 and North Dakota Highway 3 in Harvey, and add acceleration and deceleration lanes at existing at-grade railroad crossings. It will also add turn lanes at intersections from seven miles south of Portal to Carrington. “As we say, North Dakota feeds and fuels the world, and Highway 52 is an essential artery for the flow of many of our goods getting to markets,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure. “This grant will help expand this really important transportation corridor and then at the same time, improves the safety for producers and the traveling public.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-helps-secure-20-million-torehabilitate-and-preserve-highway-52,Hoeven Helps Secure $20 Million to Rehabilitate & Preserve Highway 52,2024-10-16,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Helps Secure $20 Million to Rehabilitate & Preserve Highway 52 BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Transportation Appropriations Committee, today announced a $20 million award to the North Dakota Department of Transportation for the Freight Reliability and Preservation Project on US 52. Specifically, the project will restore roughly 45 miles of existing asphalt pavement from west of Drake to Fessenden, consolidate access points at the intersection of US 52 and North Dakota Highway 3 (ND 3) in Harvey, add acceleration and deceleration lanes at existing at-grade railroad crossings as well as add turn lanes at critical intersections from seven miles south of Portal to Carrington. “The funding we worked to secure will support much needed rehabilitation and enhancements for US 52,” said Hoeven. “This major highway is essential to North Dakota and this award will help expand access with greater safety across the state.” Earlier this year, Hoeven led the North Dakota congressional delegation in making the case for funding the project to the U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary, stressing the benefits to freight transportation, while reducing congestion and improving safety. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-marks-completion-of-crosswind-runway-at-grand-forks-international-airport,Hoeven Marks Completion of Crosswind Runway at Grand Forks International Airport,2024-10-16,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Marks Completion of Crosswind Runway at Grand Forks International Airport Senator Secured More Than $50 Million for Project, Supports Reconstruction of Main Runway & Complements Construction of New Air Traffic Control Tower GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today marked the completed reconstruction and extension of the crosswind runway at Grand Forks International Airport. As a member of the Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Committee, Hoeven worked to secure more than $50 million in federal funding for the 5-year, $70 million project, which will: Enable the airport to maintain large aircraft operations while the main runway is reconstructed. The main runway project is expected to start in 2026 and be completed in 2028. Support greater air traffic capacity and improved operational efficiency. Grand Forks International Airport is among the top 25 busiest airports in the nation for take-offs and landings. This dovetails with the construction of a new Air Traffic Control Tower, which is set to begin in 2025. Hoeven has been working with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to advance the new tower, which will be fully funded by the federal government. “Between the dynamic and growing economy in the Grand Forks region and the world-leading aviation school at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks has one of the top 25 busiest airports in the country. We clearly need airport infrastructure with the ability to meet air service demand now and into the future. That’s why we worked to secure more than $50 million in federal funding for this runway project, which provides additional operational capacity and sets the stage for the future reconstruction of the main runway,” said Hoeven. “These efforts in Grand Forks build upon our work across the state to expand our airports in line with the strong economic growth we’ve supported over the past two decades.” Today’s milestone complements Hoeven’s long-term efforts to support expansions at the state’s airports to accommodate population and economic growth, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of people and goods. In recent years, the senator worked to advance similar efforts that were successfully completed, including at airports in Williston and Minot, and he continues supporting projects to expand airport terminals in Fargo and Dickinson. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-attends-send-off-ceremony-for-members-of-the-142nd-engineer-battalion,Cramer Attends Send-Off Ceremony for Members of the 142nd Engineer Battalion,2024-10-15,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here for media resources.*** VALLEY CITY, N.D. – The North Dakota National Guard (NDNG) held a ceremony today to send off members of the 142nd Engineer Battalion being deployed to Fort Bliss, Texas, in support of Joint Task Force North. The joint service command is tasked with supporting federal law enforcement agencies in the “identification and interdiction of suspected criminal activities conducted within and along the approaches to the continental United States.” U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, participated in the ceremony and expressed his gratitude for the members of the unit.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-honors-members-of-142ndengineer-battalion-at-send-off-ceremony,Hoeven Honors Members of 142Nd Engineer Battalion At Send-Off Ceremony,2024-10-15,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Honors Members of 142Nd Engineer Battalion At Send-Off Ceremony VALLEY CITY, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today paid tribute to members of the North Dakota National Guard’s (NDNG) 142nd Engineer Battalion who are deploying for a year-long mission to help U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the southern border. The unit’s deployment follows the deployments of the 957 Engineer Company, the 1-112 Aviation Regiment and the 817th Engineer Company to the southern border. “The National Guard represents the finest men and women in our country. Their work each day to protect our nation, both at home and abroad, does not go unnoticed,” said Hoeven. “I’ve seen firsthand the work of our Guard at the southern border and they have provided invaluable service during this immigration crisis. I’m confident the 142nd Engineer Battalion will continue to provide this valuable support. Their assistance to CBP will help better address the crisis at our southern border, including by helping to fight back against human and drug trafficking. We need to secure the border, because border security is national security.” The 142nd Engineer Battalion is the fourth NDNG unit to deploy to the southern border in the last several years. Hoeven previously met with NDNG members in El Paso, Texas as well as Del Rio and Eagle Pass, Texas to draw attention to the crisis at the southern border and highlight NDNG missions in support of CBP operations. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-working-to-advance-18-billion-safety-modification-project-for-garrison-dam-spillway,Hoeven Working to Advance $1.8 Billion Safety Modification Project for Garrison Dam Spillway,2024-10-10,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Working to Advance $1.8 Billion Safety Modification Project for Garrison Dam Spillway Senator Secured Funding for Project Design to Address Safety Concerns Highlighted by 2011 Flood; Construction to Start in 2029 GARRISON, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven and officials from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers today reviewed the $1.8 billion spillway safety project that’s being undertaken at Garrison Dam. The modifications: Will ensure the integrity of the Garrison Dam, which is the largest mainstream dam on the Missouri River, with Lake Sakakawea currently being the largest reservoir operated by the Army Corps by volume. Are needed to protect against multiple long-term issues that could result in uncontrolled releases from the dam, posing a significant risk to the downstream area. These potential safety concerns were brought to light due to record flows that occurred during the 2011 flood. A subsequent study recommended the full replacement of the spillway’s drainage system, a reinforced concrete overlay in the spillway chute and various other safety-related modifications Are currently undergoing Preconstruction Engineering and Design (PED), which began in 2023 utilizing funding Hoeven secured as a member of the Senate Energy and Water Development Appropriations Committee. The PED phase will involve six years of field investigations to inform the design, with construction expected to start in 2029. Hoeven has provided nearly $13 million for the project’s design phase to date, and included $32 million in additional PED funding in the Senate’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 appropriations legislation. “The Garrison Dam, along with the Lake Sakakawea and Lake Audubon reservoirs, are critical infrastructure for our state, helping ensure a reliable water supply for communities and agriculture, while supporting recreation and tourism. At the same time, a key function of the dam is to control Missouri River water levels, providing certainty to the region and protecting against the risk of flooding,” said Hoeven. “The historic water flows during the 2011 flood revealed that the spillway needs modifications to ensure the dam’s long-term integrity. That’s why we’ve been working to fund the pre-construction and design phase of this project to address these potential safety concerns as soon as possible.” -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-hosts-anduril-founder-palmer-luckey-at-2024-uas-summit-receives-uas-sky-pioneer-award,"Cramer Hosts Anduril Founder Palmer Luckey at 2024 UAS Summit, Receives UAS Sky Pioneer Award",2024-10-09,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here to download media resources. *** GRAND FORKS, N.D. – The 18th annual Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Summit and Expo takes place this week in Grand Forks, with hundreds of UAS industry leaders and policymakers from across the country gathering in North Dakota. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), attended this year’s summit with entrepreneur Palmer Luckey, founder of Anduril Industries, a global defense technology company with the mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. The Pentagon recently awarded Anduril a $250 million contract to counter drone attacks against U.S. forces. In addition to attending the summit, Cramer was presented with the UAS Sky Pioneer Award, recognizing his commitment to UAS development, research, and deployment in North Dakota and across the nation. “What's inspirational about Palmer Luckey is not just his story of accomplishment, but how he got there,” said Cramer.“I just learned he still has the family farm in Minnesota, which explains a lot about his pioneering spirit. Palmer is also inspirational because he could have taken all of his brain power, all that talent, and charming personality and applied it to a lot of things that could make him wealthy. But he chose, as a patriotic American, to invest in national defense by rebooting our arsenal of democracy. I’m honored to attend this year’s summit with my friend, a true pioneer, Palmer Luckey.” “Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) are transforming modern conflict,” said Palmer Luckey, Founder of Anduril Industries. “Transforming the way we fight requires an approach to capability development and adoption that is more closely aligned with the commercial market than the traditional defense industrial base. I am honored to join Senator Cramer at this year’s UAS Summit and Expo, and enjoyed the opportunity to engage with UND faculty and students who continue to drive progress in this critical field.” Cramer introduced Luckey for a fireside chat, where they discussed how policymakers can break through tradition to unleash the potential of private sector and startups like Anduril while encouraging the government to match the speed of business.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-luckey-meet-with-und-students-and-faculty,"Cramer, Luckey Meet with UND Students and Faculty",2024-10-09,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here to download media resources.*** GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Following today’s fireside chat at the 18th annual Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Summit and Expo, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and defense entrepreneur and founder of Anduril Industries, Palmer Luckey, participated in a townhall with students at the University of North Dakota (UND). The discussion focused on the topic of how small, nimble defense companies like Anduril are “rebooting the arsenal of democracy.” “As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I appreciate smart investment,” said Cramer. “This is why I love Palmer Luckey. I brought him to the University of North Dakota because we need innovators who can match the speed of China, doing it cost-effectively and at a scale that can win wars. This is where the opportunity rests in our challenge, how do we unleash the innovators? I enjoyed visiting with UND students and faculty to emphasize the importance of spurring real investment in our capabilities, while fostering a culture of innovation and ingenuity.” “Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) are transforming modern conflict,” said Palmer Luckey, Founder of Anduril Industries. “Transforming the way we fight requires an approach to capability development and adoption that is more closely aligned with the commercial market than the traditional defense industrial base. I am honored to join Senator Cramer at this year’s UAS Summit and Expo, and enjoyed the opportunity to engage with UND faculty and students who continue to drive progress in this critical field.” The pair then met with UND President Dr. Andrew Armacost and faculty to discuss what companies like Anduril look for in recent college graduates and ways UND can foster an environment of student innovation. Additionally, they emphasized ways to support creativity by shaking up the status quo of traditional educational design. Before the townhall, Cramer and Luckey spoke at the UAS Summit, where they highlighted how policymakers can break through tradition to unleash the potential of private sector and startups like Anduril while encouraging the government to match the speed of business. The defense missions in North Dakota play a pivotal role in strengthening national security and maintaining the United States’ nuclear deterrence capabilities. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Cramer has brought several national defense and industry leaders to experience the innovative defense ecosystem in Grand Forks such as Director of the Space Development Agency Derek Tournear and E-Space Founder and CEO Greg Wyler. Cramer has been working to attract several new missions to Grand Forks, including a temporary relocation of B-1 Bombers at Grand Forks Air Force Base (GFAFB), as well as counter UAS test missions. He has also advocated for the GFAFB to receive a Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) mission in the future.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-visits-us-forces-at-souda-bay-naval-base-reviews-uss-cole-defense-operations-in-support-of-israel,"Hoeven Visits U.S. Forces at Souda Bay Naval Base; Reviews USS Cole, Defense Operations in Support of Israel",2024-10-09,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Visits U.S. Forces at Souda Bay Naval Base; Reviews USS Cole, Defense Operations in Support of Israel Senator Travels to Central Europe on National Security Mission WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, visited U.S. forces aboard the USS Cole, a U.S. guided missile destroyer stationed at U.S. Naval Support Activity (NSA) Souda Bay in the Mediterranean. Souda Bay is one of the only bases in the region the U.S. has access to that is large enough to accommodate aircraft carriers, providing a major military location for staging both U.S. air and naval support for Israel. The USS Cole, which was bombed in 2000 during a terrorist attack that killed 17 U.S. sailors, had just arrived to take on fuel and resupply its munitions after operating in the Red Sea against Houthi drone attacks and shooting down missiles in the recent attack on Israel by Iran. The USS Cole is currently stationed at Souda Bay Naval Base, proving the vital importance of this base to operations in the Middle East. “The men and women of the U.S. military are doing an incredible job helping to defend Israel against Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran. We were able to go aboard ship and meet with the captain and crew of the USS Cole. It is truly fitting that after having been attacked by terrorists in 2000, causing great damage to the ship and taking the lives of 17 brave Americans, the Cole is now in the fight, helping take out terrorists and supporting our vital ally, Israel,” said Hoeven. “It was beyond inspiring to meet these incredible men and women, and thank them for their great service as they were taking on fuel and weapons to return to the fight.” While there, Hoeven also met with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to discuss the sale of F-35 aircraft to Greece, an increasingly strong ally, and also cooperation on LNG facilities to bring more U.S. natural gas to Europe. Hoeven traveled to the region with a senior delegation of U.S. Senators who work with defense appropriations and foreign intelligence. They met with government officials, civic leaders and U.S. military personnel to provide support and gain more information on U.S. efforts to aid both Ukraine and Israel. Their itinerary also included the Czech Republic, Hungary and Germany. “In our efforts to aid Ukraine and stop Russian aggression, it is important that we work closely with NATO and fully understand what our allies are doing. That means using the military aid we are providing as effectively as possible, and insuring our allies do their part as well. We also need to understand that Russia is using energy as a weapon, not only to fund its war machine but also to weaken NATO resistance,” said Hoeven. “For example, the Czech Republic is cooperating closely with the U.S. in its military support of Ukraine and has completely weaned itself off of Russian oil and gas. On the other hand, Hungary needs to do more to support Ukraine, and oppose both the Russian war effort and Chinese support for it. Also Hungary is continuing its dependence on Russian energy and even increasing it,” Hoeven continued. At U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany the delegation met with General Michael Langley, AFRICOM commander, and his staff to review operations in North Africa and the Red Sea region. In addition to Hoeven, the delegation included Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas, Senator John Cornyn of Texas, Senator Susan Collins of Maine and Senator John Boozman of Arkansas. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoevennew-minot-north-high-schoolwill-help-provide-important-opportunities-for-students,Hoeven: New Minot North High School Will Help Provide Important Opportunities for Students,2024-10-09,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: New Minot North High School Will Help Provide Important Opportunities for Students MINOT, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today joined community and school leaders at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly opened Minot North High School. Minot North High School opened for classes on August 21, 2024, and is part of a larger reconfiguration of Minot Public Schools. The senator previously helped break ground on the new school and commended city and school officials on their efforts to meet the needs of Minot’s students. “A quality education is the great equalizer, helping ensure young people have the skills they need to compete in the economy of the future and live a fulfilling life,” said Hoeven. “Not only does this new high school double the square footage of Minot High, it will also help double participation in extra-curricular and co-curricular activities, meaning that more students will get opportunities to participate and learn. Congratulations to Superintendent Faul, former Superintendent Vollmer, Principal Johnson, and the community as a whole, who all worked together to make today’s achievement possible.” As a member of the Senate, Hoeven has worked to provide resources to help prepare students for careers in industries that will be critical to the future of the state and nation’s economy. To this end, the senator is working to expand access to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, including by: Supporting the Student Support and Academic Enrichment program, which can be used by school districts to build greater capacity for STEM education. Cosponsoring and helping pass legislation to expand the National Science Foundation’s STEM education initiatives for young children, including establishing new research grants to increase the participation of girls in computer science. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-leads-bicameral-amicus-brief-to-overturn-fhwas-unlawful-emissions-rule,Cramer Leads Bicameral Amicus Brief to Overturn FHWA’s Unlawful Emissions Rule,2024-10-08,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – In November 2023, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) adopted a final rule requiring state departments of transportation and metropolitan planning organizations to measure greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions on the highway system and set declining targets. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure, led a bipartisan Congressional Review Act joint resolution of disapproval to overturn the rule. The resolution passed the Senate in April 53 to 47, reiterating Congress’ opposition to FHWA’s overreach. In a speech on the Senate floor, Cramercommitted to leading an amicus brief in support of overturning the rule in court. Shortly after the rule was finalized, 21 state attorneys general, including North Dakota, filed litigation challenging the regulation. The U.S. District Court found the Biden administration rule to be illegal, but FHWA appealed the decision to the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals and it remains under further consideration. Cramer and U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ranking Member of the EPW Committee, led their colleagues in filing a bicameral amicus brief requesting the Appeals Court uphold the District Court decision from April, vacating the rule. The brief argues Congress debated and rejected granting FHWA the authority to issue GHG performance measure rules and the FHWA then intentionally misconstrued Congressional intent to justify its improper exercise of authority. It also argues the rulemaking is not consistent with recent Supreme Court decisions paring back Executive Branch overreach, and FHWA is bypassing principles of federalism to further its own policy agenda. “Congress considered, and ultimately rejected, providing [FHWA] with the authority to issue a GHG performance measure regulation, but [FHWA] contorted ancillary existing authorities to impose one anyway,” the members argued. “In doing so, [FHWA] impermissibly usurped the Legislative Branch’s authority and promulgated the GHG performance measure without statutory authority delegated by Congress. “Put simply, when [FHWA] established a GHG performance measure regulation, it exceeded the powers Congress authorized. And it did so both at the expense of separation of powers and in violation of the Administrative Procedure Act,” continued the members. Additional cosigners of the amicus brief include U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), John Boozman (R-AR), Mike Braun (R-IN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), John Thune (R-SD), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and U.S. Representatives Sam Graves (R-MO-6), Chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and Rick Crawford (R-AR-1), Chairman of the Highways and Transit Subcommittee. Click here for the amicus brief.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-faa-northern-plains-uas-test-site-reach-agreement-to-share-unfiltered-radar-data-feed,"Hoeven: FAA, Northern Plains UAS Test Site Reach Agreement to Share Unfiltered Radar Data Feed",2024-10-08,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: FAA, Northern Plains UAS Test Site Reach Agreement to Share Unfiltered Radar Data Feed Senator Worked to Advance New Capability Supporting North Dakota as Most Advanced UAS Ecosystem in The Nation, Strengthens NAS Integration & Counter-UAS Development GRAND FORKS, N.D. – At the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Summit today, Senator John Hoeven announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Northern Plains UAS Test Site have reached agreement to share the FAA’s unfiltered radar data feed to support UAS integration efforts. North Dakota’s test site will be the first in the nation to receive this capability, which will: Maintain the state’s position as the most advanced UAS ecosystem in the nation. Strengthen the test site’s detect-and-avoid capabilities, which allows unmanned aircraft operating under the test site to safely fly where other state’s test sites could not. Empower the test site to detect malicious or unlawful UAS traffic, helping make North Dakota the premiere location for counter-UAS technology development. Countering threats from the misuse of unmanned aircraft is a critical Department of Defense (DoD) priority. This issue was at the heart of Hoeven’s recent discussions with Air Combat Command (ACC) Commander Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Charles Q. Brown. Accordingly, Hoeven is advancing Project ULTRA as the funding vehicle to support counter-UAS development. Hoeven worked to establish the initial contract valued at up to $18.25 million for efforts like this, and the project is eligible for additional funding in subsequent years. Hoeven is working with additional federal agencies, including the DoD and the Department of Justice (DOJ), to secure their approval of the agreement as soon as possible. Currently, FAA radars collect more data than can be shared outside of federal government agencies, due to technical challenges and security concerns. By working to unlock this capability for North Dakota, the state will be positioned to continue leading the future of unmanned aviation research, development and operations. Hoeven’s two guests at the UAS Summit are leading these important priorities: FAA Deputy Administrator Katie Thomson, a key figure in FAA’s efforts to safely integrate UAS into the national airspace (NAS). Gen. David Stewart, Director of the Joint Counter-Small UAS Office (JCO), who is leading the DoD’s efforts to protect against the misuse of drone technology. “This agreement between the FAA and the Northern Plains UAS Test Site to share unfiltered radar data adds a new tool to our vast toolkit in North Dakota, ensuring we remain the most advanced UAS ecosystem in the country,” said Hoeven. “We’ve worked for nearly two decades to build up our state’s talent, infrastructure and legal authorizations to make North Dakota the premiere location for all aspects of the UAS industry. As a result, our test site has more firsts and more partnerships than any other test site. Between this new capability and Project ULTRA, which will help fund many of the upcoming efforts, including counter-UAS development, we are positioned to continue leading the pack.” Advancing Project ULTRA Hoeven worked to establish and fund Project ULTRA to advance the development of practical UAS applications like supply delivery, base inspections and installation security, benefitting Grand Forks Air Force Base and military installations across the country. The senator recently announced that the DoD has tasked Project ULTRA with conducting demonstration flights using unmanned aircraft to move cargo between Grand Forks Air Force Base and Cavalier Space Force Station. Enhancing Counter-UAS Capabilities Hoeven stressed how initiatives like Project ULTRA can be utilized to strengthen the nation’s counter-UAS capabilities. Currently, threats such as drone swarm attacks against Israel and Ukraine, as well as UAS incursions into airspace near U.S. military bases, require significantly more expensive counter measures from the U.S. and its allies. This comes in addition to legislation Hoeven helped introduce and pass to support the development of counter-UAS technology and protect important facilities from potential misuse of unmanned aircraft. Hoeven is now sponsoring a bill to renew and expand upon the authorities created under this law. Strengthening ND’s Missions Following the fireside chat, Hoeven introduced a video from Dr. William LaPlante, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, who the senator has invited to the state to see its UAS ecosystem firsthand. Hoeven, who serves as a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, has been working with LaPlante to advance the range of missions in North Dakota, from nuclear missions in Minot to the unmanned missions in the Red River Valley. LaPlante’s remarks reinforced the discussion between Hoeven, Thomson and Stewart, further driving home the importance of UAS and counter-UAS to future DoD operations. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-honors-october-7-victims-reaffirms-unwavering-support-for-israel,"Cramer Honors October 7 Victims, Reaffirms Unwavering Support for Israel",2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – A year ago today, Iran-backed Hamas terrorists launched a heinous attack on Israel, killing approximately 1,200 individuals and taking 251 hostages, in addition to launching thousands of rockets toward Israel. One year later, 97 hostages still remain unaccounted for, including seven Americans. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and every Republican Senator in introducing a resolution to condemn the brutal assault that occurred on October 7, 2023. The resolution reiterates support to “ensure the forever survival of Israel; destroy the ability of Hamas to reconstitute any leadership role in the region; and safely release and return all United States hostages.” “As hard as it is to believe, it was one year ago today that Hamas launched an attack with the sole purpose of eradicating Israel, kidnapping and slaughtering thousands of Israeli citizens and dozens of Americans in the process,” said Cramer. “Despite the reckless language of the left, we stand in support of Israel, unequivocally, our friend and our close ally. The United States must do everything we can to champion the continued existence and flourishing of Israel, and deny Hamas the opportunity to rebuild itself.” Additional cosponsors include U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Boozman (R-AR), Mike Braun (R-IN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Susan Collins (R-ME), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Josh Hawley (R-MO), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Ron Johnson (R-WI), John Kennedy (R-LA), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Rand Paul (R-KY), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mitt Romney (R-UT), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), John Thune (R-SD), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), J.D. Vance (R-OH), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Todd Young (R-IN).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-issues-statement-on-historic-devastating-wildfires-in-western-north-dakota,"Cramer Issues Statement on Historic, Devastating Wildfires in Western North Dakota",2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – Over the weekend, several large wildfires in western North Dakota damaged property and communities, resulting in a death and an individual with serious injuries. North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum declared a statewide fire emergency on Oct. 3 to implement the necessary response and recovery actions. “Kris and I are praying for the families and communities affected by this devastating wildfire situation in western North Dakota,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND). “I’m grateful for the quick action of the North Dakota National Guard and our firefighters, first responders, and emergency managers who are working to ensure the safety of North Dakotans, their homes, and their property. My office is coordinating with state and federal officials and is ready to help with recovery efforts.” On Monday, Cramer spoke with the North Dakota National Guard’s (NDNG) adjutant general, Brig. Gen. Mitch Johnson, about several Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) programs to provide financial assistance for North Dakotans affected by the fires. FEMA Region 8 plays a crucial role in assisting North Dakota with cost-sharing measures to offset the state's financial burden. FEMA authorized the use of federal Fire Management Assistance Grants on Sunday to assist with costs associated with firefighting for the Bear Den Fire and the Elk Horn Fire. When the funds were authorized, the Bear Den Fire was threatening 100 primary and 500 other structures near Mandaree. The Elk Horn Fire was threatening 20 primary homes near Watford City in addition to buildings, infrastructure, utilities, equipment and oil infrastructure. The NDNG, the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services, and the North Dakota Forest Service have mobilized resources to maintain high readiness levels of fire-related resources and capabilities. As local, state, tribal, and federal fire response efforts persevere through this historic fire situation, the State Emergency Operations Center is running 24-hour operations. Safety Information from the Office of the Governor:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-ernst-and-senate-republicans-condemn-iran-backed-hamas_stand-with-israel-marking-1-year-since-the-october-7th-terrorist-attacks,"Hoeven, Ernst & Senate Republicans Condemn Iran-Backed Hamas & Stand With Israel, Marking 1 Year Since the October 7th Terrorist Attacks",2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven, Ernst & Senate Republicans Condemn Iran-Backed Hamas & Stand With Israel, Marking 1 Year Since the October 7th Terrorist Attacks BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven joined Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and all 47 of their Republican colleagues introducing a resolution that fully condemns Iran-backed Hamas for its actions, supporting the forever survival of Israel, and calling for the safe release of American hostages. This resolution marks one year since the terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023. “On the one-year anniversary of the attacks on Israel, we remain committed to standing with Israel in its efforts to fully defeat Hamas and stand up to its terrorist adversaries throughout the region. Israel is our strongest partner in the Middle East and this resolution reaffirms our support for this important ally,” said Hoeven. “This time last year, I woke up in the Middle East to the unbearable news that Israel was under attack by Iran-backed terrorists and Americans were being killed and taken hostage,” said Ernst. “I immediately traveled into Israel to show that our nation’s friendship is unwavering, in good times and bad. Regardless of whether I have been in Jerusalem, Washington, or Iowa, I have worked around the clock to hold the White House accountable to its ‘ironclad’ commitment, bring our hostages home, and cut off the source of terrorism in Tehran. One year since that day, as Israel remains under attack on all fronts, Senate Republicans stand united with our greatest ally in the Middle East.” The entire Senate Republican Conference stands united in opposing violent antisemitic protests and Iran-backed Hamas’ use of rape as a weapon of war. They also reiterate Israel’s right to defend itself and emphasize the importance of denying Hamas the ability to reconstitute in the region to ensure the horrific events of that day are never repeated. Full text of the resolution can be found here. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-led-working-group-announces-community-plan-to-build-veterans-memorial-center-at-fnc,Hoeven-Led Working Group Announces Community Plan to Build Veterans Memorial Center at FNC,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven-Led Working Group Announces Community Plan to Build Veterans Memorial Center at FNC After Securing Veterans Cemetery Expansion, Senator Coordinating Efforts to Secure VA Approval of FM Honor Guard Proffer, Utilizing Impact Foundation for Financial Oversight FARGO, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven, joined by the Fargo Memorial Honor Guard, Fargo Mayor Tim Mahoney, Moorhead Mayor Shelly Carlson, West Fargo Mayor Bernie Dardis and FMWF Executive Director Shannon Full, today announced a community plan to develop a Veterans Memorial Center at Fargo National Cemetery (FNC). This follows Hoeven’s efforts as a member of the Senate Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Committee to secure an expansion and enhancements for FNC, with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) having purchased land to expand the cemetery’s footprint from 5 to 35 acres. The expansion comes with significant investment by the VA, both in developing a new master plan for adding infrastructure to the land, as well as ongoing operations, staffing and maintenance. Hoeven has since been working to coordinate efforts among veterans groups, local stakeholders and the VA to build a facility at the FNC that incorporates local input and adequately addresses the needs of veterans, their families and volunteers. As a result: Stakeholders from the region have formed a working group to support the development effort, consisting of Senator Hoeven’s office, the mayors of Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo and the executive director of the FMWF Chamber. The Hoeven-led group is working with the VA to vet and officially name the Fargo Memorial Honor Guard as the 501(c)(3) responsible for building the Veterans Memorial Center. Hoeven advanced this option with the VA to save the project time and cost, using a process wherein a local nonprofit may develop and donate a commemorative work, such as a visitor’s center, to the National Cemetery Administration (NCA). Hoeven continues working to ensure the VA follows through on its commitment to support this project moving forward, having raised this priority in a Senate committee hearing with VA Secretary Denis McDonough. The Honor Guard will utilize the Impact Foundation to provide financial oversight of the project. The Honor Guard has prepared a proffer to submit to the VA for review, in collaboration with Hoeven’s working group. The working group will continue its efforts to communicate with the public and ensure local support for the project. “Since the time of its establishment, we have worked to bring enhanced facilities to the Fargo National Cemetery that properly honor our veterans and their families, while supporting the efforts of volunteers. Now, we have a solid community plan in place and the buy-in of the essential stakeholders, and we’re bringing that plan to the VA,” said Senator Hoeven. “With the partnership of our working group with the Fargo Memorial Honor Guard and the Impact Foundation, we are positioned to secure VA approval for this project, which will be built and donated by the Honor Guard. But our work isn’t done, and we will continue to coordinate efforts to deliver the kind of facility that our veterans have earned.” Under the proffer developed by the working group and the Honor Guard, the approximately $3.7 million Veterans Memorial Center will include the following amenities: Gathering area to be used by family and friends of the deceased veteran prior to or following the interment. Gallery to showcase the lives and service of our veterans. Offices for VA staff. Breakroom for the Honor Guard members. Indoor restrooms. Garage to accommodate a hearse. Parking lot. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-on-north-dakota-wildfires,Hoeven Statement on North Dakota Wildfires,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Statement on North Dakota Wildfires BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement regarding the large wildfires in western North Dakota that have killed one individual, seriously injured another, and damaged property throughout western North Dakota. “We are praying for all those impacted by severe wildfires in western North Dakota, and are grateful to the brave firefighters, Guard members and emergency responders that are working to control and stop these devastating fires,” said Hoeven. “We will work to ensure that the federal government is coordinating with state and local officials to assist the impacted communities.” On Sunday, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal Fire Management Assistance Grants to assist with costs related to the Bear Den Fire and Elk Horn Fire. Farmers and ranchers with losses should contact their local Farm Service Agency county office for assistance. Additionally, ranchers in need of feed can access the North Dakota Department of Agriculture’s Hay Hotline at 701-328-5110 or https://www.ndda.nd.gov/hay-hotline-rancher-relief. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-und-submits-application-to-enhanced-atc-training-program-plans-to-begin-program-in-spring-2025-semester,"Hoeven: UND Submits Application to Enhanced ATC Training Program, Plans to Begin Program in Spring 2025 Semester",2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: UND Submits Application to Enhanced ATC Training Program, Plans to Begin Program in Spring 2025 Semester Senator Working to Establish UND as Leader in New Initiative, Coordinate with FAA on Site Visit to Ensure Timely Program Implementation GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after the University of North Dakota (UND) submitted its application to the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program. Hoeven has been working to secure the aviation school’s role in the new program, part of his broader efforts to address the air traffic controller (ATC) shortage. Specifically, this effort will allow UND’s ATC program graduates to move directly into the workforce rather than attending the FAA’s ATC Academy in Oklahoma: This builds upon UND’s current role as an AT-CTI program, which allows graduates to skip the first five weeks of initial qualification training at the FAA Academy. Under the enhanced program, UND will offer the same curriculum provided by the FAA Academy, making graduates immediately eligible for hire and to begin localized training at an air traffic facility. Graduates will still be required to pass the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) exam and meet medical and security requirements. UND is aiming to start the Enhanced AT-CTI program in the spring 2025 semester, being one of the first schools in the nation to offer this opportunity to students. To advance UND’s application, Hoeven made the case to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker for UND to lead the way in this initiative. The senator stressed the university’s position as a world leader in aviation research, education and training. This comes in addition to measures Hoeven worked to include in the FAA Reauthorization Bill passed by Congress earlier this year to improve ATC hiring and retention. With the application submitted, the FAA will begin the review process, which includes a site visit in Grand Forks in the coming months. The site visit will involve an inspection of UND’s classes, curriculum, equipment and other aspects essential to the Enhanced AT-CTI program. Hoeven’s office continues working with the FAA to coordinate these next steps in the application process. “Air traffic controllers are an essential part of our nation’s ability to provide safe, timely air service, and the ongoing labor shortages in this area constrain the operations of airports across the country. The good news is that we have a world-class aviation school at UND, which is primed and ready to tackle this demand for a qualified ATC workforce. As an existing AT-CTI school, UND is well-positioned to move into this new enhanced training initiative, which is a great opportunity for its students to get into the workforce more quickly, bypassing the need to go the ATC Academy in Oklahoma,” said Senator Hoeven. “That’s why we’ve been working to secure UND’s leadership in this program, having raised this priority with both the Transportation Secretary and the FAA Administrator. With the school’s application now submitted to the FAA, we continue our efforts to move this process forward, and ensure the site visit and all required steps are successfully completed in time to begin this program at UND in 2025.” “We are looking forward to working with the FAA in getting our program approved and graduating Enhanced AT-CTI students to help alleviate the controller shortage,” said Craig Carlson, Associate Professor of Aviation, who has been leading the application efforts at UND. “We appreciate Senator Hoeven and his team for working with us to make this opportunity a reality, which leverages UND’s expertise in aviation to provide a great career opportunity to North Dakota students, while addressing a critical national need.” Addressing the ATC Shortage The FAA reauthorization bill includes legislation Hoeven cosponsored that requires the FAA to use a more accurate staffing model developed by the National Air Traffic Controllers Association and the FAA’s Air Traffic Organization. The bill also sets an updated minimum hiring target for new air traffic controllers. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/two-cramer-bills-addressing-alzheimers-disease-signed-into-law,Two Cramer Bills Addressing Alzheimer’s Disease Signed into Law,2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – Two critical pieces of legislation in the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease were signed into law this week. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) cosponsored both pieces of legislation, the National Alzheimer's Project (NAPA) Reauthorization Act and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act. These bills are meaningful advancements in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. The Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act requires the National Institutes of Health to annually submit an estimate of its budget and personnel needs for carrying out initiatives and essential research pursuant to the National Alzheimer's Project. The NAPA Reauthorization Act extends the National Alzheimer’s Project to 2035. The project was first authorized in 2011 and supports coordination of federal planning, programs, and research to support efforts addressing Alzheimer's disease and dementia such as healthy aging and cognitive decline. “Like many others, Alzheimer’s has a personal connection to me and my family,” said Cramer. “I am committed to doing everything I can to support those that are affected by the disease while at the same time, working toward treatments that work and ultimately, a cure. I believe we can get there. There’s a lot to be done, but I am heartened by the progress of these bills that are being signed into law.” Cramer has worked to support the community of people who experience Alzheimer’s disease including their families, loved ones, and medical care teams. In September, he participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer's in Bismarck and visited the Bismarck Memory Cafe. Cramer joined U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) in cosponsoring the Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer’s Act to direct the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) to test an innovative payment and delivery system tailored for dementia care management. Additionally, Cramer joined U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding the CMS requirement for Coverage with Evidence Development (CED) for monoclonal antibodies drugs designated for the treatment of Alzheimer’s. The letter encouraged CMS to take steps to remove these requirements for FDA-approved treatments to ensure reasonable access for Alzheimer’s patients outside of a clinical trial.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/letter-to-doj-highlights-concerns-over-non-citizens-participating-in-federal-elections,Letter to DOJ Highlights Concerns Over Non-Citizens Participating in Federal Elections,2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – As concerns grow over non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections, reports in Virginia and Texas claim thousands of non-citizens were found on voter rolls. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) in a bicameral letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland, asking for stricter enforcement of federal laws prohibiting non-citizens from registering to vote or voting in federal elections. The letter reiterates a previous request for the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to provide details on enforcement actions taken since January 2021, including statistics on prosecutions and referrals related to non-citizen voting. It also demands accountability and immediate action to protect public confidence in the electoral process. “Given that the 2024 Presidential Election is in less than 36 days, your Department’s inaction and refusal to provide any information regarding its efforts to promote public trust and confidence in our elections is especially alarming,” wrote the senators. “Clearly, there is a non-negligible amount of voter participation by non-citizens in federal elections, which is not only a serious threat to the integrity of our elections and the democratic process they represent, but also has the potential to reduce Americans’ trust and confidence in election results.” Throughout his time in the Senate, Cramer has advocated for policies to restore the integrity of the U.S. immigration system and electoral process. He was the first original cosponsor of U.S. Senator Mike Lee’s (R-UT) Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which requires proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections. Cramer also cosponsored Hagerty’s Equal Representation Act, which prohibits the counting of non-citizens in congressional and Electoral College apportionment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoevenhagerty-call-on-doj-to-enforce-laws-preventing-illegal-immigrants-from-voting-in-us-elections,"Hoeven, Hagerty Call on DOJ to Enforce Laws Preventing Illegal Immigrants from Voting in U.S. Elections",2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven, Hagerty Call on DOJ to Enforce Laws Preventing Illegal Immigrants from Voting in U.S. Elections BISMARCK, N.D. — Senator John Hoeven joined U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) in sending a bicameral letter criticizing U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland for the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) failure to prevent illegal aliens from registering to vote in American elections or prosecute those who have done so. This letter comes from growing concerns over non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections, as reports in Virginia and Texas claim thousands of non-citizens were found on voter rolls. “We are deeply concerned by reports of non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections,” the senators wrote. “As of today, there has been no response from you or your Department regarding the inquiry on July 12, 2024, seeking information on efforts undertaken by your Department to enforce laws prohibiting non-citizen voting. Given that the 2024 Presidential Election is in less than 34 days, your Department’s inaction and refusal to provide any information regarding its efforts to promote public trust and confidence in our elections is especially alarming.” Senators joining Hoeven and Hagerty in sending the letter include Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Rick Scott (R-FL), James Lankford (R-OK), Jim Risch (R-ID), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Steve Daines (R-MT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Tim Scott (R-SC), Marco Rubio (R-FL), John Thune (R-SD), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), John Barrasso (R-WY), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Katie Britt (R-AL), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Mike Braun (R-IN), Ted Budd (R-NC), Joni Ernst (R-IA), John Kennedy (R-LA), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/dod-awards-contract-for-construction-of-emergency-fuel-storage-facility-at-cavalier-space-force-station,DOD Awards Contract for Construction of Emergency Fuel Storage Facility at Cavalier Space Force Station,2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here to download audio.*** BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) awarded a $19,129,000 contract to HCPA-GARCO for the construction of an Emergency Power Plant-Fuel Storage facility at Cavalier Space Force Station. The work is expected to be completed by December 9, 2026, and will be performed in Cavalier. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Omaha District is the contracting activity. Located in eastern North Dakota, Cavalier Space Force Station is home to the 10th Space Warning Squadron. The unit operates and maintains the Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System (PARCS), a phased-array radar system which tracks over half of all earth-orbiting objects. It allows Cavalier Space Force Station to provide critical missile warning and space surveillance data to North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), United States Space Command, and combatant commanders.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-cramer-usda-rural-development-awards-more-than-9-million-to-north-dakota-forinfrastructure-projects,"Sen. Cramer: USDA Rural Development Awards More Than $9 Million to North Dakota for Infrastructure Projects",2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development announced an investment of $9,685,000 for the following infrastructure projects across North Dakota: $4,446,000 loan to Cavalier Rural Electrical Cooperative to support a project to build and improve 37 miles of line connecting 85 consumers. $1,885,000 loan and $1,202,000 grant to the City of New Salem to replace and upsize the aged cast-iron main and sanitary sewer pipe. $780,000 loan and $620,000 grant to the City of Buffalo to install a new 6” PVC force main from the city’s lift station to the lagoons. $432,000 loan and $320,000 grant to the City of Mayville to replace approximately 12 blocks of asbestos cement pipe on the water distribution system, install seven fire hydrants, and repair or replace 15 gate valves throughout the city.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cramer-fetterman-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-expand-va-burial-benefits,"Senators Cramer, Fetterman Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Expand VA Burial Benefits",2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here to download audio.*** BISMARCK, N.D. – Under existing law, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may only provide burial markers or headstones for spouses and dependent children who died after Nov. 11, 1998, and before Oct. 1, 2025. U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and John Fetterman (D-PA) introduced the Dennis and Lois Krisfalusy Act to eliminate this restriction and permanently authorize the VA to provide memorial headstones or markers for veterans, their spouses, and dependents. The legislation was named in honor of Dennis “Denny” Krisfalusy, a U.S. Air Force veteran who served during the Vietnam War. Dennis and his wife, Lois Krisfalusy, tragically died during an earthquake in Mexico City in 1985, with neither of their remains recovered. While Dennis received a memorial headstone at the Cemetery of the Alleghenies, Lois was ineligible to have her name added under current VA regulations due to an arbitrary date restriction. “The spouses and families of our men and women in uniform serve and sacrifice alongside their loved ones, and Congress should ensure they can stay together in their final resting place,” said Senator Cramer. “An arbitrary, outdated restriction prohibits the VA from providing a memorial headstone or marker for military spouses and dependents if they passed away before 1998. Our bipartisan legislation removes this hurdle, giving families much-needed closure.” “Our veterans and their families have sacrificed so much, and they deserve to be honored together without arbitrary barriers in the way,” said Senator Fetterman. “Dennis and Lois Krisfalusy’s story of loss and frustration is just one example of the families impacted by this policy. By fixing this injustice, we’re ensuring that families like theirs can be laid to rest together and memorialized with dignity.” The Dennis and Lois Krisfalusy Act is supported by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), and the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA). A companion measure was introduced in the House by U.S. Representatives Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA-14), Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17), John Joyce, M.D. (R-PA-13), Mike Kelly (R-PA-16), Dan Meuser (R-PA-09), and G.T. Thompson (R-PA-15).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-army-awards-more-than-19-million-for-construction-at-cavalier-space-force-station,Hoeven: Army Awards More Than $19 Million for Construction at Cavalier Space Force Station,2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: Army Awards More Than $19 Million for Construction at Cavalier Space Force Station WASHINGTON — Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, today announced that the Department of the Army has awarded a contract for $19,129,000 to construct an emergency power plant fuel storage facility at the Cavalier Space Force Station. The project will construct a 360,000-gallon fuel storage farm to operate emergency power for Cavalier’s Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System (PARCS). “North Dakota is playing an important role in our nation’s space operations,” said Hoeven. “This funding will help to construct an emergency power plant fuel storage farm, which is important in ensuring the operation of Cavalier’s PARCS, which detects missile threats and monitors satellites and other space objects.” -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-b-1-bomber-visits-grand-forks-in-preparation-for-upcoming-move,Hoeven: B-1 Bomber Visits Grand Forks In Preparation for Upcoming Move,2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: B-1 Bomber Visits Grand Forks In Preparation for Upcoming Move GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after a B-1B Lancer bomber visited Grand Forks Air Force Base in preparation for the upcoming move of the aircraft and related personnel from Ellsworth Air Force Base. Grand Forks Air Force Base is set to begin housing 17 of the aircraft starting next year, and this week’s visit was made to test the base’s fueling systems and facilities to ensure the bomb wing can be adequately accommodated during the temporary relocation. Hoeven serves as a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, through which he has worked to fund and advance the relocation effort, having made the case for Grand Forks to serve in this role to the head of the Air Force Global Strike Command General Thomas Bussiere and Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall. This comes as part of the senator’s long-term efforts to strengthen North Dakota’s role in the nation’s defense, including the unmanned missions in Grand Forks and Fargo and the nuclear missions in Minot. “This week’s visit of the B-1B aircraft to Grand Forks is an important step as the Air Force prepares to temporarily move the bomb wing,” said Hoeven. “Grand Forks Air Force Base has the capacity needed to house this and the wide variety of other missions we’ve worked to bring to this region due to our decades-long effort to invest in the base’s facilities, build up our expertise in aviation and unmanned aerial systems in the region and establish the one-of-a-kind Grand Sky business and technology park. Such efforts have enabled us to expand North Dakota’s role in our national defense, whether on the ground, in the air or up into space.” -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-issues-statement-on-iranian-missile-attack-against-israel,Cramer Issues Statement on Iranian Missile Attack Against Israel,2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. — Iran launched a ballistic missile attack against Israel today. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement regarding the attack: “As we consider an appropriate response to the attacks on Israel, we must remember the complete destruction of Israel and the United States is the goal of Iran’s leaders and proxies,” said Cramer. “As our strongest ally in the Middle East and perhaps in the world, there can never be any doubt by them or Iran, the United States will stand with and fight with our historic friend if necessary. The only ceasefire the United States should be calling for is a complete defeat of Iran and its proxies.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-statement-after-irans-missile-attack-against-israel,Hoeven Statement After Iran’s Missile Attack Against Israel,2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Statement After Iran’s Missile Attack Against Israel WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, today issued the following statement after Iran launched a large-scale missile attack against Israel: “We stand with Israel as they defend themselves against this attack by Iran. Iran is a threat not only to the security of the region, but the security of the United States, and must be held accountable. The United States must make it clear that Iran will pay a heavy price for attacking Israel directly and for their support of proxy groups like Hezbollah, Hamas and other terrorist organizations. As our greatest ally in the region, we stand with Israel,” said Hoeven. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:55:29Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-cramer-nps-awards-over-12-million-to-support-project-at-sully-creek-state-park-in-medora,Sen. Cramer: NPS Awards Over $1.2 Million to Support Project at Sully Creek State Park in Medora,2024-09-30,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The National Park Service (NPS) announced the North Dakota Department of Parks and Recreation (NDDPR) received an award of $1,262,300 through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) supporting the construction of additional campsites at Sully Creek State Park, located near Medora. The funding will allow the NDDPR to renovate and reconfigure the road network at Sully Creek State Park to increase the number of campsites, including the installation of 50-amp utilities and water. Since 1965, the NPS has provided more than 40,000 LWCF grants, primarily funded with federal offshore oil and gas lease revenue, to states and local communities. LWCF awards allow states to further allocate these funds to support local public parks projects and state conservation, and expand outdoor recreation access.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-cramer-us-eda-invests-39-million-for-bismarck-riverfront-infrastructure-improvements,Sen. Cramer: U.S. EDA Invests $3.9 Million for Bismarck Riverfront Infrastructure Improvements,2024-09-30,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced an award of $3.9 million to the Northern Plains Heritage Foundation in Bismarck. This funding will support infrastructure improvements to develop Bismarck Riverfront Park and Festival Grounds, attracting tourism and strengthening the local economy. This $3.9 million award will be matched with $1.1 million in local funds. According to grantee estimates, the funding is expected to create 211 jobs and generate $80 million in private investment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-cramer-congressional-coalition-on-adoption-respond-to-chinas-termination-of-intercountry-adoption-program,"Senator Cramer, Congressional Coalition on Adoption Respond to China’s Termination of Intercountry Adoption Program",2024-09-30,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – In early September, the U.S. Department of State received notice from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) Ministry of Civil Affairs stating as of August 28, China is no longer carrying out foreign adoption work. All pending and future adoptions, except those among blood relatives, have been halted. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined his co-chairs of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and U.S. Representatives Robert Aderholt (R-AL), and Adam Smith (D-WA), in sending a joint letter to the U.S. Department of State Office of Children’s Issues, asking it seek further clarification on the details and reasoning for China’s decision. The co-chairs also requested the status of pending adoption cases and called on the Department to share the information with adoptive families and service providers. Additionally, the senators urged the Department to press Chinese officials to finalize adoption cases in the United States. “We are disappointed by the People’s Republic of China’s decision to halt its intercountry adoption program,” the members wrote. “This news is devastating for the hundreds of children and American families with adoption cases pending in China, many of whom have waited years for these adoptions to be completed.” “As co-chairs of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption, the safety of adopted children and hundreds of would-be adoptees is our top priority, and the sudden termination of China’s adoption program has exacerbated our concern for these children’s well-being,” the members wrote. “Many of these children have special health care needs, and some will soon age out of care systems without the support of a permanent family. It is particularly critical that these children have access to the care and support that they need — which hundreds of American families approved for adoption are willing to provide.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-national-park-service-awards-over-1-million-for-sully-creek-state-park,Hoeven: National Park Service Awards Over $1 Million for Sully Creek State Park,2024-09-30,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: National Park Service Awards Over $1 Million for Sully Creek State Park BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy & Natural Resources and Appropriations Committees, today announced that over $1 million in funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is being awarded by the National Park Service to the North Dakota Department of Parks & Recreation to renovate and increase the number of campsites at Sully Creek State Park. The grant provides $1,262,300 specifically to renovate and reconfigure the road network to increase the number of campsites as well as for installation of camper pads, water and 50-amp utilities at Sully Creek State Park. “The National Park Service’s funding will support efforts to ensure North Dakota’s parks, including Sully Creek State Park, have the facilities needed to deliver an improved camping experience for locals and visitors, ensuring they are able to fully take advantage of the abundant attractions our state offers,” said Hoeven. The LWCF was established by Congress in 1964 and supports federal and state investment in conservation of natural areas, water resources and outdoor recreation. The primary source of revenue for the Land and Water Conservation Fund is from federal oil and gas leases on the Outer Continental Shelf. In 2020, Hoeven helped advance the Great American Outdoors Act, ensuring the LWCF is fully funded each year. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/dod-awards-61-million-contract-for-construction-of-aircraft-maintenance-facility-at-grand-forks-air-force-base,DOD Awards $61 Million Contract for Construction of Aircraft Maintenance Facility at Grand Forks Air Force Base,2024-09-28,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) announced it awarded a $61,492,477 contract to Korte Construction Company for the construction and renovation of a building for use as an Aircraft Maintenance Facility to accommodate the Disaster Resiliency Program mission. The work is expected to be completed on October 8, 2026, and will be performed at Grand Forks Air Force Base (GFAFB). “While it may have seemed unlikely in 2010, operations at Grand Forks Air Force Base continue to grow, and improvements and growth go hand in hand,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC). “This contract is a welcome development to renovate the Aircraft Maintenance Facility and ensure our airmen have a modern building to meet the needs of today’s threats.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-receives-a-rating-in-2024-nssf-congressional-report-card,Cramer Receives A+ Rating in 2024 NSSF Congressional Report Card,2024-09-27,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Grading is based on support of legislation defending Second Amendment rights, advocating for lawful commerce of firearms and ammunition BISMARCK, N.D. – The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) released its 2024 Congressional Report Card, a comprehensive report analyzing the support of each lawmaker during the 118th Congress. The report card is based on elected officials’ advocacy for legislation of critical importance to the firearm industry and Second Amendment liberties. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) is among eight senators named to the NSSF’s 2024 Congressional Dean’s List, receiving an A+ for his 100% voting and co-sponsorship record. “I’m honored to be named to the NSSF’s Congressional Dean’s List and to receive an A+,” said Cramer. “The Second Amendment is not just a constitutional clause; it is a fundamental American liberty central to the protection of all others. The NSSF is an excellent partner in defending Americans’ Second Amendment liberties and rebutting liberal, illegal discrimination against constitutionally-protected businesses.” “The 2024 NSSF Congressional Report Card is a comprehensive analysis of our elected representatives’ positions on firearm and ammunition industry priorities in the 118th Congress. The Report Card’s grades are based on key votes, co-sponsorships, committee activity, floor speeches, and other official actions by Senators and Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Members of our industry are grateful to have so many strong allies in the Halls of Congress,” said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President for Government & Public Affairs and General Counsel. “NSSF is proud to especially recognize Senator Cramer as a member of the new NSSF Congressional Dean’s List for his exemplary leadership in supporting the firearm and ammunition industry and the nearly 400,000 hardworking Americans employed in the industry. Making the Dean’s List is special recognition that Senator Cramer has gone above and beyond to protect and preserve the Second Amendment rights of his constituents and the industry that makes the exercise of those rights possible. We applaud Senator Cramer for his exemplary level of support.” Two pieces of legislation sponsored by Cramer factored into this award and A+ rating, the Fair Access to Banking Act and Firearms Interstate Commerce Reform Act. In February 2023, Cramer reintroduced his Fair Access to Banking Act with over a third of the Senate as co-sponsors. The bill bars financial institutions from refusing or limiting services to constitutionally-protected industries like gun and ammunition manufacturers and retailers. The legislation is in response to U.S. banks and financial institutions increasingly using their capacity as lenders to exclude the firearms and fossil energy industries, among others, from accessing services. In July, Cramer also joined House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA-01) in introducing the bicameral Firearms Interstate Commerce Reform Act (FICRA) to modernize and streamline the legal framework governing interstate firearms transactions. Federal regulations prevent licensed dealers from selling firearms to out-of-state residents. The FICRA aims to remove this restriction, supporting lawful commerce, military families, and Second Amendment rights, while respecting state laws.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-cramer-hhs-awards-970634-to-north-dakota-tribal-nations-for-opioid-programs,"Sen. Cramer: HHS Awards $970,634 to North Dakota Tribal Nations for Opioid Programs",2024-09-27,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the award of $970,634 to support substance abuse programs in three North Dakota tribal nations. The award will be distributed to the following tribes: $425,000 to the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians $295,634 to the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe $250,000 to the Spirit Lake Tribe",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-cramer-hhs-awards-425-million-to-support-health-initiatives-in-north-dakota,Sen. Cramer: HHS Awards $4.25 Million to Support Health Initiatives in North Dakota,2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the award of $4,250,000 to North Dakota for the following programs and initiatives: $4,000,000 to the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services through the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment to strengthen the state’s opioid response. $250,000 to Mountain Plains Youth Services, Inc., to support its transitional living program for young adults between the ages of 18 to 21.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-cramer-receives-uss-theodore-roosevelt-model-will-transfer-to-tr-presidential-library-upon-completion,"Senator Cramer Receives USS Theodore Roosevelt Model, Will Transfer to T.R. Presidential Library Upon Completion",2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – An at-scale model of the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) aircraft carrier was delivered to U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer’s (R-ND) office in Washington, D.C. Representatives from Huntington Ingalls Industries delivered the glass-encased replica to Cramer’s office, where it will remain until the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora in 2026. Cramer announced the gift from Huntington Ingalls Industries to the library during his remarks at the beam-signing ceremony in August. “North Dakotans know President Theodore Roosevelt best as a Rough Rider and rancher in the Badlands, but he was so much more than our favorite cowboy,” said Cramer. “Before he became our 26th president, he served as a colonel in the Army, New York City Police Commissioner, Governor of New York, Vice President, and Assistant Secretary of the Navy. The USS Theodore Roosevelt honors both his presidency and Navy leadership, and it’s an honor to have this replica in my office until it christens the halls of his presidential library in Medora. I encourage North Dakotans visiting D.C. to come see this impressive display while it’s here.” “We are deeply grateful to Senator Cramer for the incredible opportunity to display the official USS Theodore Roosevelt scale model at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library upon completion,” said Robbie Lauf, Executive Director of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. “It honors both the ship and Theodore Roosevelt’s legacy in building a strong, modern Navy as Assistant Secretary. This gift strengthens our mission to preserve TR’s vision and leadership for future generations.” The USS Theodore Roosevelt is a Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier and was commissioned in October 1986. Roosevelt’s time in what was then-Dakota Territory followed the loss of his mother, Mittie, and wife, Alice, both on Valentine’s Day 1884. Roosevelt famously stated, “I have always said I would not have been President if it had not been for my experience in North Dakota.” The site of the library is positioned to overlook the South Unit of Roosevelt’s namesake national park, which was established as a memorial park in April 1947 and later designated as a national park in November 1978. Construction is underway, and the library is expected to open on July 4, 2026, to mark the United States’ 250th anniversary.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-cramer-nps-awards-more-than-4-million-to-support-park-projects-in-grand-forks-turtle-mountain,"Sen. Cramer: NPS Awards More Than $4 Million to Support Park Projects in Grand Forks, Turtle Mountain",2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Park Service (NPS) announced an award of $4,490,000 through the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP) to support redevelopment projects at parks across North Dakota. The award will be distributed for the following projects: $3,490,000 for the Grand Forks Downtown Gateway and Greenway, an outdoor recreational area consisting of 2,200 acres. $1,000,000 to support the Turtle Mountain Family Recreation Areas. The ORLP program, managed by the NPS and funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund, provides grants for community sponsored park projects where population is greater than 30,000 residents. Since 1965, the NPS has provided more than 40,000 LWCF grants, primarily funded with federal offshore oil and gas lease revenue, to states and local communities. LWCF awards allow states to further allocate these funds to support local public parks projects and state conservation, and expand outdoor recreation access.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-cramer-us-department-of-education-awards-500000-to-state-department-of-public-instruction,"Sen. Cramer: U.S. Department of Education Awards $500,000 to State Department of Public Instruction",2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Education announced an award of $500,000 to the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI) under the State Personnel Development Grants Program. This funding will support NDDPI’s Grad 701 initiative, which aims to close graduation gaps, improve support systems, and boost outcomes for all students.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-hsgac-advances-legislation-to-strengthen-northern-border-security-rename-casselton-post-office,"Senate HSGAC Advances Legislation to Strengthen Northern Border Security, Rename Casselton Post Office",2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here to download audio.*** WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC) held a markup today for two pieces of legislation U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) helped shepherd. They are the Northern Border Security Enhancement and Review Act and legislation to rename the post office in Casselton as the ""Commander Delbert Austin Olson Post Office.” The committee unanimously advanced both pieces of legislation, which will now head to the Senate floor for consideration. Cramer, co-chair of the American-Canadian Economy and Security (ACES) Caucus, joined U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) in introducing the Northern Border Security Enhancement and Review Act last week. The bill marks a significant milestone in efforts to secure the U.S.-Canada border. “Our steadfast alliance with Canada has long been a cornerstone of both economic and national security,” said Cramer. “The U.S.-Canada relationship is defined by more than just geography; it is built on an enduring trust, mutual respect, and a shared responsibility to address global and domestic challenges. With this being the world’s longest border, it’s crucial we remain vigilant in addressing emerging threats and challenges. The advancement of this legislation brings us one step closer to ensuring the dependability and safety of our shared border for the families and communities who live on both sides.” The Northern Border Security Enhancement and Review Act represents the latest in a long history of border management, trade, and joint security cooperation between the two countries. This legislation requires an updated northern border threat analysis every three years, starting on September 2, 2025. The analysis will include an assessment of apprehension changes at the northern border, with a focus on recent trends in both the volume and demographics of apprehensions at the sector level. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is required to update its Northern Border Strategy by September 2, 2026, and every five years thereafter. The legislation will also implement a 2019 U.S. Government Accountability Office recommendation for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to develop performance measures assessing the effectiveness of its programs. This will ensure the resources and strategies deployed are rigorously measured and continuously improved to meet the demands of a dynamic security environment. Cramer’s leadership in the ACES Caucus, which he co-launched in June 2023 with U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME), underscores the long-standing partnership between the U.S. and Canada. Earlier this year, Cramer and King introduced a resolution reaffirming the “deep and steadfast United States-Canada partnership” and the commitment to mutual economic and national security interests. In May, the North Dakota delegation introduced legislation in the House and Senate to designate the United States Postal Service facility at 840 Front Street in Casselton as the “Commander Delbert Austin Olson Post Office.” “This tribute is a testament to the profound bond between Commander Olson and the Casselton community, a solemn promise that his extraordinary contributions will forever be remembered,” said Cramer. Commander Olson served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He earned multiple awards for his service, including the Navy Commendation Medal with valor, Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon Bar. His name is also inscribed along with all fallen comrades on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. This legislation will memorialize his distinguished service and ultimate sacrifice, while recognizing his connection to Casselton and his heroic contributions to the nation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-funding-stopgap-through-december-20-averts-government-shutdown,"Senate Passes Funding Stopgap Through December 20, Averts Government Shutdown",2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here to download audio.*** WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Senate passed a continuing resolution (CR) by a vote of 78 to 18 today, extending Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations levels for federal agencies through December 20. The measure, which previously passed the House of Representatives by a bipartisan vote of 341 to 82, also provides funding for the U.S. Secret Service in addition to extending expiring programs and authorities. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) issued the following statement after voting for the short-term funding measure:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-cramer-department-of-energy-awards-initial-funding-to-project-tundra,Senator Cramer: Department of Energy Awards Initial Funding to Project Tundra,2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here for audio*** WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced an award of $4.2 million to Project Tundra. This is the first installment of up to $350 million to Project Tundra. These funds will be distributed through the fully-paid-for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Carbon Capture Demonstration Projects Program, which supports the development of community-informed integrated carbon capture, transport, and storage projects. “This initial award really brings Project Tundra one step closer to being the first user of carbon capture utilization storage technology at a coal plant with on-site storage in the country, and how appropriate that it would be done in North Dakota,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND). “This project demonstrates our state’s ingenuity and decades of energy development, experience, and dominance. Obviously, more work lies ahead, but this is really welcome progress.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-cortez-masto-bill-to-strengthen-tribal-public-safety-passes-committee,"Hoeven, Cortez Masto Bill to Strengthen Tribal Public Safety Passes Committee",2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven, Cortez Masto Bill to Strengthen Tribal Public Safety Passes Committee WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) released the following statement after the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs voted to approve their bipartisan Bridging Agency Data Gaps & Ensuring Safety (BADGES) for Native Communities Act. Specifically, the BADGES for Native Communities Act would support the recruitment and retention of Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) law enforcement officers, bolster federal missing persons resources and give Tribes and states greater tools to combat violence. “Securing committee approval of our legislation is an important step toward strengthening the resources available to Tribal law enforcement,” said Senator Hoeven. “Our bill authorizes the BIA to conduct its own background check of law enforcement applicants, which empowers Tribes to meet their law enforcement staffing and infrastructure needs, enhances public safety and helps bring offenders to justice.” “I hear it often from Tribes in Nevada—law enforcement officers are stretched thin in their communities and it’s having an impact on everyone, especially when it comes to combating the epidemic of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I’m proud of our bipartisan work to pass the BADGES for Native Communities Act through committee today. This bill to give Tribal police the resources and tools they need to fight crime and keep their communities safe is one step closer to becoming law.” Specifically, the BADGES for Native Communities Act would: Allow the BIA to conduct its own background checks for law enforcement officer applicants in order to improve officer recruitment. Increase Tribal access to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) by requiring Tribal facilitators to conduct ongoing Tribal outreach and serve as a point of contact for Tribes and law enforcement agencies, as well as conduct training and information gathering to improve the resolution of missing persons cases. Require a report on Tribal law enforcement needs, including staffing, replacement and repairs for corrections facilities, infrastructure and capital for Tribal police and court facilities, and emergency communication technology. Establish a grant program to support states, Tribes, and Tribal organizations in the coordination of efforts related to missing and murdered persons cases and sexual assault cases. Evaluate federal law enforcement evidence collection, handling, and processing crucial to securing conviction of violent offenders. -###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:46:43Z