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.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/national-defense-bill-with-key-nh-provisions-signed-into-law,National Defense Bill with Key NH Provisions Signed Into Law,2019-12-23,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"National Defense Bill with Key NH Provisions Signed Into Law December 23, 2019 **Defense bill includes ban on PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam, continued funding for health impact study and Shaheen's bipartisan legislation to expedite analysis of water contaminants including PFAS** **Bill provides 3.1 percent pay raise to service members, phases out the Widow's Tax and includes Shaheen's bipartisan legislation to provide support to military spouses** **Bill prioritizes role of Pease and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard** **Bill includes Legislation Shaheen Cosponsored to Crack Down on Fentanyl Coming from China & Mexico** **Shaheen Successfully Added her Bipartisan Bill with Senator Hoeven to Improve FAA Hiring of Air Traffic Controllers** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee which authors the annual defense bill, issued the following statement after the fiscal year (FY) 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) was signed into law. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Shaheen helps write the defense bill every year and successfully included a number of her provisions in this year's bill that prioritize New Hampshire and a strong national defense. As our committee wrote this bill, delivering on important New Hampshire priorities was my top concern. I'm glad we were able to do just that, including necessary investments in our state's military readiness at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and Pease Air National Guard base, and addressing several other key issues Granite Staters care about, said Shaheen. Now that this legislation is law, critical work will soon be underway to enhance our federal response to PFAS exposure, provide financial relief to military families, bolster our national security and much more. The annual defense bill provides a valuable opportunity to make real progress on bipartisan issues and I'm glad that this year Congress continued to make good on that effort. Regarding the PFAS provisions in the legislation, Shaheen added: This bill makes important progress on our efforts to combat PFAS exposure continuing the health impact study and phasing out the use of PFAS in Department of Defense firefighting foambut more work is urgently needed to ensure no family fears the safety of their drinking water, said Shaheen. I'll continue to work across the aisle, and with our state and local partners, to improve accountability and transparency to stop PFAS exposure and hold those who pollute responsible. On her bipartisan provision with Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) to support military spouses and ease regulations hindering the transfer of occupational licensing and small business registration from state to state: Military families make significant sacrifices on behalf of our country, so if we have the opportunity to make things a little easier for them, we need to seize it, said Shaheen. This new law cuts through the red tape hindering military spouses from practicing their professions or restarting their businesses as they move with their families around the country. I'm relieved for military families that this measure is now the law of the land and will work closely with the administration to make sure it is implemented comprehensively. I appreciate the support from members on both sides of the aisle to include this commonsense fix in the defense bill and provide support to military spouses, and I offer my sincerest thanks to our military families for their continued service to our nation. Senator Shaheen on bipartisan legislation she cosponsored to crack down on fentanyl coming from China and Mexico: More than 80 percent of the total drug overdose deaths in New Hampshire in 2018 were due to fentanyl or fentanyl combined with other drugs. This crisis should have Congress' undivided attention,said Shaheen. As our law enforcement and other first responders tackle this crisis from the frontlines, it's critical that Congress back them up with the resources they need, and that the U.S. government take meaningful action to hold traffickers and their sponsors to account by imposing sanctions and increasing enforcement. Seeing this legislation through Congress and signed into law is a big step forward. Shaheen's comments on the phase out of the military widow's tax that affects as many as 65,000 military spouses nationwide: The last thing that military spouses should have to deal with after losing a loved one is an unjust reduction in income,said Shaheen. This bipartisan reform finally provides the surviving spouses of our servicemen and women with the full benefits and financial assistance to which they're entitled. I'm glad we were able to work across the aisle to take this important step on behalf of military families. And on her bipartisan legislation with Senator Hoeven to improve FAA hiring of air traffic controllers: Our nation's air traffic controllers are essential to keeping our skies and passengers safe, so it's critical that the Federal Aviation Administration has all of the tools necessary to build this dedicated workforce, said Shaheen. Our bipartisan measure will streamline the FAA hiring process and ensure the most qualified individuals are selected to serve as air traffic controllers. I'm glad to have helped secure this bipartisan provision in the NDAA and appreciate Senator Hoeven's partnership on this effort. Read more here about Senator Shaheen's priorities that were included in the FY 2020 NDAA. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-statement-on-second-anniversary-of-gop-tax-law,Shaheen Statement On Second Anniversary of GOP Tax Law,2019-12-22,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Statement On Second Anniversary of GOP Tax Law December 22, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement onthe second anniversary of the Republican tax bill the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 being signed into law: Two years ago, Congressional Republicans squandered an important opportunity to simplify our broken tax code and provide meaningful tax relief to working Americans. Instead, they exploded our national debt and forced middle-class families to foot the bill for massive tax breaks for the wealthy and large corporations, said Senator Shaheen. Communities in New Hampshire continue to suffer the consequences of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which was drafted in secret and unnecessarily rushed through Congress. Whether it's new and exorbitant taxes on much-needed water infrastructure investments or changes to the tax code that penalized local stores and restaurants seeking to improve their businesses, steps must be taken to right the wrongs of this deeply flawed tax law. Going forward, Republican leadership needs to legislate responsibly by working across the aisle in good faith and allowing the public into the legislative process, particularly for legislation that touches the lives of all Americans. Earlier this month, Senator Shaheen introduced bipartisan legislation to fix an unfair measure in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which has led to exorbitant taxes on critical water infrastructure investments in New Hampshire and across the nation. These changes have already resulted in $1.15 million in new federal taxes for water infrastructure projects in Southern New Hampshire and will serve in the future as a strong disincentive against investments in water infrastructure and community development. In March, Shaheen and a bipartisan group of Senators introduced legislation to correct a drafting error in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which resulted in cost-prohibitive renovation projects and stalled investments for local businesses. In May, Shaheen and Senator Cruz introduced legislation to protect charities and houses of worship from new taxes imposed by the 2017 tax law. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-delivers-holiday-cards-to-granite-state-veterans,Kuster Delivers Holiday Cards to Granite State Veterans,2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Kuster meeting with a veteran at the New Hampshire Veterans Home in Tilton High resolution versions of these photos are available here. (Tilton, NH) Today, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) delivered student-made holiday cards to residents of the New Hampshire Veterans Home in Tilton as part of her seventh annual Holiday Cards for Heroes program. It was wonderful to share some holiday cheer with Granite State veterans today, said Kuster. These Americans have given so much to us, it was my honor to help say thank you'. These beautiful cards made by New Hampshire students are just one small way to express our deepest gratitude this holiday season. For seven years, Congresswoman Kuster and her office have collected handmade cards from students across New Hampshire's Second District to deliver to Granite State veterans as part of her Holiday Cards for Heroes program. Students at Wilkins Elementary School in Amherst, Paul Smith Elementary School in Franklin, Ed Fenn Elementary School in Gorham, Bethlehem Elementary School, Whitefield Elementary School, and Stark Elementary School created cards for this year's program. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-introduces-bill-to-lower-granite-state-energy-bills-create-jobs,"Kuster Introduces Bill to Lower Granite State Energy Bills, Create Jobs, Support Community Energy Projects",2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC This week, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) introduced the Community Energy Savings Program Act of 2019 (CESP), legislation which would promote the expansion of clean energy projects in New Hampshire and across the country. By providing low-interest financing to consumers and communities that want to make clean energy investments, this legislation will aid in transitioning America to a clean energy economy while creating green energy jobs. New Hampshire communities are already experiencing the negative impacts of climate change, and it is imperative that Congress advances legislation to expand clean energy projects and protect our planet said Kuster. I am proud to introduce this bill which will lower the financial barrier for Granite Staters who wish to finance energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Families and communities across our state would benefit from the opportunity to lower their energy bills and invest in renewable energy, but may not have the financial resources required for up-front investments. My legislation will expand access to low-cost loans which will drive down costs for families, create green energy jobs and reduce carbon pollution that is harmful to public health. The Community Energy Savings Program (CESP) Act would finance energy efficiency and renewable energy projects through the existing Department of Energy's State Energy Program. The bill provides multiple financing options to consumers, public utilities and local government to advance larger-scale clean energy projects. This bill ensures that the Department of Energy can provide technical assistance to support the deployment of these clean energy programs. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) has introduced this legislation in the Senate. You can access the full legislative text here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/kuster-pappas-introduce-legislation-protect-granite-state-businesses-online,"Kuster, Pappas Introduce Legislation to Protect Granite State Businesses from Online Sales Tax",2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"This week, Reps. Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) introduced the Stop Taxing Our Potential (STOP) Act, legislation that would overturn the 2018 Supreme Court Wayfair decision. This decision forces New Hampshire small businesses to collect online sales tax from over 10,000 jurisdictions across the country. Kuster and Pappas have been vocal opponents of efforts to impose an online sales tax on NH businesses. Businesses in my district and across the country rely on the Internet to reach their customer base and they should not be penalized for doing so,said Congressman Pappas.I've met with countless businesses who sell their products online in New Hampshire, including Lupine Pet in Conway and Granite State Puzzles in Jackson. These are small businesses that make outstanding products and contribute to our economy, but like many local businesses they just do not have the time and resources to spare to navigate a burdensome tax processthat will cut into their bottom line. As a small business owner, I know these concerns firsthand. That is why I am proud to co-lead this effort to propose modern, common-sense legislation to relieve small businesses of this burden.Let's give online sellers, including the hundreds of small businesses in the Granite State, the support and the certainty they need to continue to grow and prosper. New Hampshire businesses are ramping up for the holiday season to sell goods online all across the country. Unfortunately, the imposition of a burdensome online sales tax is hanging over their heads,said Congresswoman Kuster. Requiring small businesses to collect an online sales tax from thousands of different tax jurisdictions will hurt growth in New Hampshire and increase red tape. I am proud to introduce this legislation with Congressman Chris Pappas, who has been a champion for Granite State businesses, and I will continue to advance efforts that will protect our economic competitiveness in New Hampshire. Kuster joined her colleagues in March to introduce bipartisan legislation, the Online Sales Simplicity and Small Business Relief Act. The bill would exempt small businesses that generate less than $10 million in sales from collecting online sales tax, as well as ensure states cannot require remote online sellers to collect sales tax retroactively on transactions made before January 1, 2019. Congressman Pappas was also a co-sponsor of the Online Sales Simplicity and Small Business Relief Act and spoke on the House floor, soon after taking office,to address the impact of the Wayfair decision on New Hampshire small businesses. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/nh-delegation-announces-more-than-12-million-to-combat-the-substance-use-disorder-epidemic,NH Delegation Announces More Than $1.2 Million to Combat the Substance Use Disorder Epidemic,2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"NH Delegation Announces More Than $1.2 Million to Combat the Substance Use Disorder Epidemic December 20, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), the lead Democrat on the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, today announced with Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) that the Department of Justice (DOJ) awarded $1,215,137 to the New Hampshire Department of Justice (NHDOJ) in support of efforts to combat the substance use disorder epidemic. Specifically, the funding will be used to tackle recidivism among Granite Staters struggling with substance use disorder and enhance the state's prescription drug monitoring system. Of the funds listed, $493,000 was awarded through the DOJ's Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program, which aims to reduce recidivism and substance abuse through the creation and expansion of adult drug courts. An additional $722,137 was awarded through the DOJ's Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Site-based Program, which bolsters state efforts to establish or enhance state prescription drug monitoring systems. One of the most common responses I hear from our law enforcement community about the substance use disorder epidemic is that we cannot jail our way out of this crisis. And they're absolutely right. That's why this latest allotment of federal grant funding to reduce recidivism among Granite Staters struggling with this disease is so important, said Senator Shaheen. I'm also pleased that our state will receive additional resources for the prescription drug monitoring system to ensure prescribed opioids don't fall into the wrong hands and are kept off our streets. As the lead Democrat of the Subcommittee that funds the Department of Justice, boosting support for these federal grant programs will continue to be one of my top priorities. These federal grants will support efforts to continue to improve New Hampshire's drug courts andenhance the state's prescription drug monitoring system,Senator Hassansaid. Federal grants like these are crucial to our efforts to combat the devastating substance misuse crisis, and I will continue working across the aisle to secure additional resources to help turn the tide of this epidemic. We've made great progress in our fight to combat the opioid epidemic in New Hampshire, but there's more we must do,said Congresswoman Kuster. This funding will help strengthen and improve programs that are critical in preventing substance use disorder, providing treatment, and supporting those who are struggling with addiction. I'll continue working to secure funding and resources that will aid us in our efforts to curb the opioid crisis. As our medical professionals, first responders, andlaw enforcement work tirelessly to combat this epidemic, it is essential we provide them with the resources they need to prevent substance abuse, coordinate care, and support individuals' recovery,said Congressman Pappas.These funds from the Department of Justice will go a long way in providing New Hampshire with effective tools to save lives and keep our communities safe. Senator Shaheenhas led response efforts in the Senate to stop the substance use disorder epidemic. In bipartisan funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2020, Shaheen secured aprovisionbased on a key component in herTurn the Tide Actthat provides new flexibility for the State Opioid Response (SOR) grant program to allow treatment providers to be able to use opioid response grant dollars to help patients suffering from meth and cocaine dependency, in addition to opioid use disorder. The government funding legislation also funds the SOR grant program at $1.5 billion for the year and maintains the 15 percent set-aside for hardest-hit states that Shaheen secured in government funding legislation in each of the past two years. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/senate-clears-bill-cosponsored-by-shaheen-and-hassan-to-award-congressional-gold-medal-to-wwii-us-merchant-marines,Senate Clears Bill Cosponsored by Shaheen & Hassan to Award Congressional Gold Medal to WWII U.S. Merchant Marines,2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senate Clears Bill Cosponsored by Shaheen & Hassan to Award Congressional Gold Medal to WWII U.S. Merchant Marines December 20, 2019 (Washington, DC) Bipartisan legislation backed by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the U.S. Merchant Mariners of World War II unanimously passed the Senate last night. TheMerchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Actrecognizes the dedicated and vital service of the 290,000 men who served in the Merchant Marine and risked their lives transporting American soldiers, supplies and equipment over the seas in support of the Allied war effort. Their efforts were critical to securing the ultimate success of the Allies in World War II. During the Second World War, American merchant marines served as the supply line for U.S. troops and our Allies, and were instrumental to the war effort, said Senator Shaheen. Without their immense efforts and sacrifices, victory would not have been possible. This bipartisan bill awards the highest honor Congress can bestow on these extraordinary men, who are so deserving of this recognition. We will never fully repay the debt we owe them for their service. The Merchant Marines played a crucial role in the Allied victory in World War II by ensuring that our nation's troops got where they needed to go and were properly supplied on the front lines, Senator Hassan said. For their heroic efforts, I am pleased that the Senate passed this bipartisan bill to grant merchant mariners a long-overdue Congressional Gold Medal to properly commemorate their brave sacrifice. Text of the legislation is available here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-introduces-legislation-to-protect-survivors-of-domestic-and-sexual-violence-from-housing-discrimination,Shaheen Introduces Legislation to Protect Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence from Housing Discrimination,2019-12-20,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Introduces Legislation to Protect Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence from Housing Discrimination December 20, 2019 **The Fair Housing for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Survivors Act of 2019 would set a nationwide standard that survivors cannot be evicted or otherwise denied access to housing for being victims of those crimes** **The Combating Sexual Harassment in Housing Act would make it easier for victims to bring forward certain cases of sexual harassment under the Fair Housing Act** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) reintroduced two pieces of legislation that would protect and empower survivors of domestic and sexual violence from housing discrimination. Building on existing protections in theFair Housing Act,theCombating Sexual Harassment in Housing Actwould make it easier for victims, the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to bring cases of sexual harassment to court. Specifically, the legislation would amend theFair Housing Actto make egregious types of harassment against a tenant automatic violations of the statute, including unwelcome touching of a sexual nature or groping, or other actions of a sexual nature intended to be coercive, threatening or intimidating. TheFair Housing for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Survivors Act of 2019would build on existing legal protections in theViolence Against Women Actand theFair Housing Act and establish a nationwide standard that victims of domestic violence and sexual assault cannot be evicted or denied access to housing solely for being victims of those crimes. With the new protections included in this legislation,the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) would be provided clear and direct authority to protect victims of domestic violence and sexual assault from housing discrimination. The bill would also serve as a federal model to encourage more states to adopt similar protections. During a time where visibility and accountability for sexual harassment and assault is becoming more common, crimes that occur in what should be the safety and comfort of one's home are still all too often swept under the rug, said Senator Shaheen. These bills are a step forward to ending the revictimization of those who have experienced these heinous crimes, making it easier for women to share their experiences and hold perpetrators accountable. Protecting and empowering survivors of sexual violence with the tools they need to recover and seek justice will continue to be a top priority for me in the Senate. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives to the Fair Housing for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Survivors Act of 2019. When a woman is the victim of domestic violence or sexual assault, she needs the law to be on her side. I am proud to introduce the Fair Housing for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Survivors Act to help reduce homelessness and reform unfair laws that further harm some of the most vulnerable women. As a nation, it is incumbent upon us to do everything we can to protect survivors and ensure that our legal system is working for them, not against them. This bill provides the necessary legal framework to combat housing discrimination against survivors and ensure they are protected under the Fair Housing Act. I thank Senator Shaheen who continues to be a leader in the Senate on sexual assault issues, and the broad coalition of organizations who support this critical legislation, said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. Sexual harassment, while recognized as a pervasive issue in the workplace, remains under-acknowledgedin the home and is believed to be widely underreported because of its disproportionate impact on low-income, minority women. Many advocates and academics who work with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault have been sounding the alarm about the dangers that sexual harassment in the home presents for their clients, who are often heads of households without financial means to relocate. Tenants are particularly vulnerable because abusive landlords have constant unrestricted access to apartments and can enter unannounced to stalk or intimidate a tenant. These landlords also threaten retaliation or eviction knowing the victim has no alternative housing available. Sexual harassment in housing is strongly correlated with criminal sexual assault. According to a 2005 study of rape crisis centers and legal aid providers, 79% of women who had been sexually assaulted by a landlord reported that, prior to the assault, the landlord also sexually harassed the tenant by doing one of the following: sexually propositioning the tenant, stalking the tenant, or initiating unwanted sexual contact with the tenant. According to aNational Law Center on Homelessness & Povertysurvey of 76 legal and social service providers who handle evictions and housing denials, more than 10% of all evictions and more than 25% of housing denials involved victims of domestic violence because of the crimes committed against them. Senator Shaheen hasled efforts in the Senate to establish basic rights and protections for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Her bill, theSurvivors' Bill of Rights Act, was signed into law in 2016 and created the first federally codified rights specifically for sexual assault survivors and for the first time allowed survivors the opportunity to enforce those rights in federal court. Last month, Shaheen introduced the bipartisan, bicameralSurvivors' Bill of Rights in the States Actto build on theSurvivors' Bill of Rights Actby incentivizing states to pass legislation that guarantees the survivors rights included in the federal legislation. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-backed-increase-in-funding-for-fuel-assistance-program-included,Kuster-Backed Increase in Funding for Fuel Assistance Program Included in Federal Appropriations Bill,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Earlier this week, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) voted in favor of a government funding measure that included an increase of $50 million for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Kuster, along with a bipartisan group of her colleagues, called for increased funding for LIHEAP, which provides heating assistance to low-income seniors and families. I've long fought for the LIHEAP program because New Hampshire's most vulnerable children, seniors, and families should never face the threat of not being able to heat their homes during the cold winter months, said Kuster. This week we advanced robust funding for LIHEAP that will help low-income families in New Hampshire stay warm this winter. I was proud to advocate for these resources and will continue to fight to support all Granite State families. Kuster has consistentlyadvocated for robust fundingfor the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Earlier this year, Kuster and her colleagues pushed back against cuts to the program proposed by the Trump Administration. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-votes-to-advance-us-mexico-canada-agreement,Kuster Votes to Advance U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Today, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) voted to pass bipartisan legislation that would implement the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA) and modernize our trade relations with two of New Hampshire's largest trading partners. USMCA is the product of extensive renegotiation efforts between the three countries to update the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which has been in place for over 25 years. I am pleased that House Democrats and the White House were able to find common ground and identify a path to advance this new trade agreement, said Kuster. Cross border trade is essential to the health of New Hampshire's economy, as so many businesses rely on exporting goods and services to Canada and Mexico. The proposal presented by the White House needed significant changes to protect American workers and Congress' ability to lower the price of prescription drugs. The final agreement importantly includes provisions to enforce Mexico's labor reforms and protect American jobs, stronger rules and accountability mechanisms to safeguard our natural resources, and increased Canadian market access for dairy farmers. Furthermore, House Democrats successfully worked to remove language that would have contributed to higher prescription drug prices by blocking lower-cost generic drugs from coming to market. While we reached agreement on important environmental protection improvements, I would have liked to see more robust language to address climate change and reduce carbon pollution across North America. I will continue to work to advance legislation that takes meaningful action to protect our planet and tackle climate change. ""The fact that we have a new agreement - one that gives workers significantly improved protections for workers - is thanks to the pressure our allies in the House like Rep. Annie Kuster and Rep. Chris Pappas have been able to exert as members of the House's pro-labor majority, said Glenn Brackett, President of NH AFL-CIO. We are grateful for their work and for Speaker Pelosi's efforts on behalf of working families throughout this process."" The importance of trade with Canada and Mexico for New England cannot be overstated, and USMCA will be a huge boost for our region's economy, said Jim Brett, New England Council President & CEO.In 2018 alone, New Hampshire exported just over $1 billion in goods to Canada and Mexico $13 billion for our region and trade with these two nations supported tens of thousands of jobs in New Hampshire. Whether it's protecting intellectual property, ensuring data can flow across borders, or implementing strong enforcement measures, businesses throughout New England will benefit from USMCA and we are grateful for Representative Kuster's support. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-wins-increase-in-northern-border-regional-commission-funding,Kuster Wins Increase in Northern Border Regional Commission Funding Included in Government Spending Bill,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Earlier this week, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) applauded passage of a government funding bill that included an increase in funding for the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC). Kuster led a bipartisan call for a $3 million increase for the successful economic development program. The NBRC will now be funded at $25 million per year. The NBRC provided more than $3 million in funding to projects in New Hampshire in 2019. Communities throughout northern and rural New Hampshire have seen the success of the Northern Border Regional Commission in spurring a variety of economic development projects, said Kuster. I'm thrilled that we've advanced funding that will allow the NBRC to continue to support local communities to grow and thrive. From infrastructure projects to the expansion of substance misuse treatment and recovery services, the NBRC has made a real difference in many communities. I look forward to continuing to advocate for rural communities across the Granite State. As a member of the Farm Bill Conference Committee and Agriculture Committee, Kusterhelped secure provisionsin the final 2018 Farm Bill to strengthen the NBRC and expand the reach of the program. In addition, she led abipartisan call to the governorsof New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York urging support for the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) and introduced bipartisan legislation, theNorthern Border Regional Commission Reauthorization Act,to continue funding for the NBRC. This legislation was included in the 2018 Farm Bill Conference Report. Kuster has alsohighlighted the importance of the programto senior members of the Trump Administration. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pappas-applauds-house-passage-usmca,Congressman Pappas Applauds House Passage of USMCA,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC-Congressman Pappas issued the following statement after the House passed the bipartisan U.S., Mexico, Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA). I am pleased the House passed the USMCA which represents a major step forward for our workers, farmers, businesses, and economy. It was important to get the right trade deal, and the effort to make improvements on labor enforcement, environmental protection, and access to biologic drugs has produced an agreement that received broad bipartisan support today, said Congressman Pappas. This agreement will provide New Hampshire businesses with the predictability they need to thrive and grow. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to move quickly to approve this agreement while we remain committed to further safeguarding American jobs, holding our trading partners accountable, and strengthening environmental standards. In April,Congressman Pappas met with US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and urged him to address concerns related to exclusivity for biologic drugs, lax labor provisions and weakenvironmental protections in an earlier version of the agreement. The USMCA will now move to the Senate to be voted on before it is sent to the President's desk.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/senate-sends-funding-legislation-with-key-shaheen-authored-provisions-to-presidents-desk,Senate Sends Funding Legislation with Key Shaheen-Authored Provisions to President’s Desk,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senate Sends Funding Legislation with Key Shaheen-Authored Provisions to President's Desk December 19, 2019 PFAS Provisions Championed & Supported by Shaheen Included in Government Funding Legislation Government Funding Legislation Includes Shaheen-Authored Provision That Gives Treatment Providers Flexibility to Treat Meth, Cocaine Use Shaheen Secures Long-Term, Emergency Care for U.S. Government Employees & Dependents Who Were Injured While Serving in China & Cuba in Government Funding Bill (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee which authors the annual government funding legislation, issued the following statement after the Senate passed government funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2020. The legislation which is written in two billspassed the House of Representatives yesterday. It will now be sent to the President to be signed into law. I helped write this legislation with fellow Democrats and Republicans across the aisle to best respond to the issues affecting families in New Hampshire and in communities across the country. Repealing costly taxes that drive up health care premiums, expanding access to care for those struggling with substance use disorders and giving our military members a well-deserved pay raise are priorities we all agree on, said Shaheen. I appreciate the bipartisan negotiations in Congress that went into this comprehensive funding legislation and I urge the President to follow our lead and sign this legislation into law. Shaheen priorities included in the fiscal year 2020 funding legislation include: Regarding the PFAS provisions in the legislation, Shaheen added: The health risks and concerns related to PFAS exposure are frightening for affected families. No one should be afraid to turn on the tap and no firefighter or service member should fear for their own safety because of their gear or the equipment they use. Unfortunately, this is a reality for too many people who have been impacted by PFAS exposure, which is why a federal response must be a top congressional priority. This legislation makes good on that effort and includes a number of my measures to tackle this pervasive problem,said Shaheen. Continuing the health impact study, boosting resources for research and expediting cleanup of contaminated sites are critical to understanding and stopping this problem. This funding legislation takes a number of important steps forward and I'll keep raising this issue to ensure our communities get the answers and help they need. On her provision to give treatment providers flexibility to treat meth and cocaine use in addition to opioid-related substance use disorder: The substance use disorder epidemic we're facing today isn't the same one we were fighting a few years ago, so as this crisis evolves so should our response,said Shaheen. By empowering treatment providers with the ability to use these federal grants for a broader range of substance misuse, we can help ensure more Granite Staters get the help they desperately need. It's so heartbreaking to see the devastation to families and communities from this crisis and we need to make sure treatment providers have the tools they need to save lives. This provision was the product of conversations with Granite Staters on the frontlines of this crisis. I'll continue to work closely with state and local partners to ensure they have the resources they need to combat the full scope of this epidemic. Shaheen's comments on her measure that secures long-term, emergency care for U.S. Government employeesand their dependentswho were injured while serving in China and Cuba: These injuries, andsubsequent treatment by the U.S. Government, have been a living nightmare for these dedicated public servants and their families,saidShaheen. Our diplomats, personnel and their families in China and Cuba experienced mystifying injuries while serving our country, and they must be assured that our government will stand by them as they continue on their path toward recovery. It's time to right this wrong and that's why I pushed congressional leadership to include this provision in the bipartisan government funding legislation. There is still tremendous uncertainty surrounding the circumstances that led to these injuries, but that should in no way prevent our government from caring for those who have sacrificed so much in the line of duty. Read more here about Senator Shaheen's priorities that were included in the FY 2020 government funding legislation. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-calls-on-va-to-address-health-care-provider-payment-backlog,Shaheen Calls on VA to Address Health Care Provider Payment Backlog,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Calls on VA to Address Health Care Provider Payment Backlog December 19, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) sent a letter last night to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Robert Wilkie requesting that the Department explain its delay in addressing the backlog of payment claims to health care providers in the community. In her letter, Shaheen called on the Secretary to dedicate the resources necessary to expeditiously reduce and eliminate the backlog of claims, and to give clarity to health care providers with unpaid claims. The unpaid claims largely originated under the Veterans Choice Program, which has since been replaced by a new community care network established by the VA MISSION Act. My office has heard from numerous health care providers in New Hampshire who have yet to receive payment on claims in the tens of thousands of dollars, wrote Senator Shaheen. We are more than willing to assist these providers and have worked with them to identify the claims for the VA and pursue expedited payment. However, providers should not be forced to seek assistance simply to receive what is rightly owed to them for services rendered to veterans. Delays in payment undermine provider confidence in the Community Care Network (CCN) and threaten efforts to build a strong network, which will be necessary for the community care model established in the VA MISSION Act to succeed. If providers can't trust that they will be paid in a timely manner, then ultimately it is our veterans who suffer as these providers drop out of the network and veterans receive fewer options for care. Unfortunately, I have heard from community providers who have made the difficult choice to stop seeing veterans covered by the VA because they can no longer wait to receive compensation. As you know, most of these providers appreciate the opportunity to deliver care to the veterans who have served our nation and are willing to assume responsibilities that are not inherent in the more traditional delivery of care. Many of them are also small businesses who depend on timely payments for services to keep their business running. At the very least, we must ensure that these providers are confident that when they see a veteran they will be paid. Not only has this backlog resulted in unpaid claims, but it has created confusion among providers during a time of transition to the new CCN where clarity and consistency is critical to building a robust network. It is often unclear to providers who contact my office as to whether claims are delayed due to administrative backlog or errors in their submissions. Providers are also struggling to discern the difference between claims still pending with the VA and claims that will be paid out by Optum under the new CCN. For these reasons, I urge you to increase provider outreach to ensure that those with unpaid claims understand the reasons for delay and are able to quickly remedy any omissions or mistakes in their claim submissions. In 2018, Senator Shaheen worked to include a provision in the VA MISSION Act which was signed into law ensuring every veteran in New Hampshire has access to care in the community. This was a top priority for Shaheen as New Hampshire does not have a full-service VA medical facility. Under the previous VA community care program, Senator Shaheen introduced the Veterans Choice Card Prompt Payment Act to expedite payment to providers who serve veterans. The full text of the letter is available here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-calls-to-congratulate-military-spouse-who-helped-inspire-legislation-thats-now-headed-to-presidents-desk,Shaheen Calls to Congratulate Military Spouse Who Helped Inspire Legislation That's Now Headed to President's Desk,2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Calls to Congratulate Military Spouse Who Helped Inspire Legislation That's Now Headed to President's Desk December 19, 2019 Shaheen makes a call to Andrea Krull, whose husband is a Navy Commander from Manchester and helped inspire legislation during a visit to Shaheen's office that cuts through red tape for military spouses (Washington, DC)This afternoon, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, called Andrea Krull, a military spouse who helped inspire legislation during a visit to Senator Shaheen's office in 2018 that is now headed to the President's desk for signature. Andrea and her husband, Navy Commander Matthew Krull of Manchester, visited Senator Shaheen's Washington, DC office for the Senator's weekly constituent coffee reception where Andrea raised the struggles military spouses face as they move from state-to-state. Specifically, Andrea cannot keep her small business registered in one state and instead has to re-register her business every time her husband is reassigned to a new military installation. This is not only costly, but forces Andrea to devote many hours to filling out paperwork and long delays in getting her small business up and running. After hearing about Andrea's experience, Senator Shaheen and her staff began drafting legislation that would allow military spouses to register their businesses in one state. Senator Shaheen teamed up with Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) who was working on a similar bill and together, introduced bipartisan legislation that would allow military spouses to not only register their businesses in one state but also improve the ability of spouses to transfer occupational licenses from state to state. Over 34% of military spouses work in fields that require a state license in order to practice. These spouses are often required to pay to recertify this license every time they move. Senator Shaheen and Cotton's legislation, The Portable Certification of Spouses Act, was introduced with the support of Second Lady Karen Pence and was added to this year's National Defense Authorization Act that was recently passed by the Senate and is awaiting the President's signature to be enacted. During their call, Senator Shaheen thanked and congratulated Andrea for helping to inspire this legislation. Military spouses shoulder the burden of the home front every military move means time spent finding a new home, enrolling children in a new school, finding new doctors, new friends and setting up life in the new location. Military spouses with professional careers have the added burden of administrative red tape for professional licensing and small business regulations, said Andrea Krull in a statement following the call. The signing of this legislation into law means that military spouses have one less hurdle to maintain their professional careers as they move following their active duty service member from base to base. Our military families make enormous sacrifices on behalf of our country, so if we have the opportunity to help make things a little easier for them we need to seize it,saidShaheen after the legislation passed the Senate. Military spouses face serious challenges starting over in new communities, which are exacerbated when they have to jump through hoops to re-establish their professions.This bipartisan legislation is a commonsense fix to a bureaucratic problem that hinders military spouses from practicing their professions or restarting their businesses as they move with their families throughout the country. I appreciate the bipartisan support this effort has received and I look forward to seeing this legislation signed into law. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-applaud-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-anti-robocall-bill-as-it-heads-to-presidents-desk,"Shaheen, Hassan Applaud Senate Passage of Bipartisan Anti-Robocall Bill As it Heads to President’s Desk",2019-12-19,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan Applaud Senate Passage of Bipartisan Anti-Robocall Bill As it Heads to President's Desk December 19, 2019 **136 Million Robocalls have been Placed to New Hampshire Phone Numbers So Far This Year** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) issued the following statements after the Senate passed bipartisan legislation to crack down on robocalls. The legislation improves the federal government's ability to find scammers, increases penalties on those caught and requires call authentication and blocking technology to be made available free of charge to consumers. The bill also brings relevant federal agencies and state attorneys general together to evaluate policies and resources needed to better prosecute and deter illegal robocalls, among other provisions. Both the Senate and House passed versions of the bill earlier this year.Shaheen and Hassan are cosponsors of the billthat passed the Senate in May. Lawmakers from both chambers conferenced on the bills and unveiled negotiated legislation earlier this month. Now that this legislation has passed the Senate and House, it will be sent to the President's desk to be signed into law. This bipartisan legislation has been a long time coming for Granite Staters and Americans across the country who've been targeted by these illegal, intrusive calls. With more than a hundred million robocalls placed to New Hampshire numbers alone this year, this effort to crackdown on those responsible is overdue, said Senator Shaheen. I'm glad Congress was able to get the job done and deliver this legislation to the President's desk. I urge President Trump to move swiftly and sign this bill into law immediately. This bipartisan legislation will help reduce the illegal robocalls incessantly plaguing Granite Staters and Americans, Senator Hassan said. These obnoxious calls have become more common and more disruptive in the last few years, and I hope that President Trump recognizes the urgency of this issue and signs this bipartisan legislation into law without delay. So far this year, Americans have received 54 billion robocalls and more than 136 million were placed to New Hampshire numbers. In June,Shaheen held a press conferencein Concord with the New Hampshire Department of Justice, AARP New Hampshire, the Public Utilities Commission and other Granite State stakeholders to discuss the work underway in Congress to combat the bombardment of robocalls. The legislation would do the following to clamp down on robocalls: Requires service providers to implement call authentication and blocking technologies free of charge for consumers and small businesses; Gives the FCC the ability to step up enforcement actions against unlawful robocalls with a longer statute of limitations and increased fines in certain cases; Brings together relevant federal agencies as well as state attorneys general and other non-federal entities to identify and report to Congress on improving deterrence and criminal prosecution of robocall scams at the federal and state levels; Requires the FCC to establish partnerships to better inform efforts to protect consumers, including an advisory committee to develop best practices to combat unlawful robocalls made to hospitals and a consortium to trace the origins of illegal robocalls; Directs the FCC to protect consumers from one-ring scams, in which callers ring once and then hang up, attempting to trick the consumer into calling back and incurring hefty charges; and Requires the FCC to report to Congress on enforcement and compliance progress. Full text of the legislation isavailable here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/h-delegation-announce-750k-in-federal-funding-to-improve-treatment-for,NH Delegation Announce $750K in Federal Funding to Improve Treatment for Mothers Struggling with Substance Use and Their Infants,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) today announced the award of $750,000 in federal funding to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services to improve quality of care and reduce costs for pregnant and postpartum women struggling with substance use and their infants. This funding is distributed from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHS) through its Maternal Opioid Misuse (MOM) Model program. Across the country, substance use is now a leading cause of maternal death and poor maternal outcomes. Senator Shaheen has strongly supported efforts to address maternal mortality and opioid use disorder (OUD) among pregnant women, cosponsoring the Help for Moms and Babies Act, which was signed into law in 2018 and allows pregnant women receiving OUD treatment at certain residential facilities to be eligible for Medicaid coverage for prenatal services, and the MOMMA's Act, which would extend Medicaid coverage for low-income women for a full year following the birth of a child, rather than the current two-month postpartum coverage period. We need to ensure that mothers struggling with substance use have access to services that can protect the health and wellbeing of themselves and their children, and put them on the path to recovery, said Senator Shaheen. This federal grant will make a real, tangible difference in advancing these goals and will help save lives. Ensuring those on the frontlines of the substance use disorder epidemic have the resources they need to respond to this crisis will continue to be my top priority in the Senate. This federal grant will help mothers battling substanceuse disordersbuild better lives for themselves and their children,Senator Hassansaid. Talking with mothers recently at Moms in Recovery in Lebanon, I heard once again from them about the importance of increasing access to treatment. I will continue working to secure resources to combat the opioid crisis and turn the tide of this deadly epidemic. Preventing and treating substance misuse in pregnant women and new mothers is vital to combating the opioid and addiction epidemic, said Congresswoman Kuster. This funding will help new and expectant mothers in New Hampshire get back on their feet and live healthier lives, as well as improve the wellbeing of their infants and children. I will continue working to support those on the frontlines of the opioid epidemic and those who are struggling with addiction. If we hope to put this addiction epidemic behind us, it is critical that we not only provide treatment for those in need, but also work to break the cycle of addiction,said Congressman Pappas.These federal dollars will go a long way in doing just that by providing better coordinated care for mothers and their infants at a time when they are most in need. There is nothing more important to me than the health and well-being of our communities, and I will continue to work alongside the delegation to ensure we receive federal support to bring this epidemic to an end. Senator Shaheenhas spearheaded the fight against the substance use disorder epidemic in the Senate. In bipartisan funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2020, Shaheen secured a provision based on a key component in her Turn the Tide Act that provides flexibility for treatment providers to be able to use opioid response grant dollars to help patients suffering from meth and cocaine dependency, in addition to opioid use disorder. Shaheen helped negotiate the bipartisan agreement in 2018 that outlined the two years of opioid response spending totaling $6 billion to respond to the opioid crisis. This included theset-aside funding for states with the highest mortality rates, like New Hampshire. This critical additional funding, which the Senator helped broker, has beenincluded by Congressover each of the past three fiscal years. As a result of her efforts, New Hampshirereceiveda more thanten-fold increasein opioid treatment funding through the State Opioid Response (SOR) grant program. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-condemns-fifth-circuit-court-decision-to-overturn-the-affordable,Kuster Condemns Fifth Circuit Court Decision to Overturn the Affordable Care Act,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) Today, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02), issued the following statement condemning the Fifth Circuit Court ruling on the Trump Administration-supported lawsuit to overturn the entire Affordable Care Act (ACA). The ACA protects the tens of millions of Americans with preexisting conditions, reduces out-of-pocket costs, expands Medicaid, bans junk insurance plans, and allows Americans to stay on their parents' health insurance plans until the age of 26. This ruling threatens the care of the millions of Americans who rely on the Affordable Care Act to access the care they need. For years, Republicans have tried and failed to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Now, the Trump Administration is using the courts to overturn this critical legislation and take health care away from millions of Americans. We are working to protect people with preexisting conditions, lower prescription drug costs, and improve the quality of health care in our nation my legislation, H.R. 986, the Protecting Americans with Preexisting Conditions Act, passed the House in May. Just last week, we passed historic legislation to lower the price of prescription drugs. Unfortunately, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell refuses to bring these life-saving bills to a vote, and the Trump Administration is actively working to sabotage the ACA and take health care away from millions of Americans. I am committed to protecting the health care of Granite Staters and all Americans. A member of the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, Kuster has advocated to strengthen our health care system and protect every American's access to care. In May, the Congresswoman's legislation, the Protecting Americans with Preexisting Conditions Act, passed the House. This legislation would protect individuals with preexisting conditions from efforts by the Trump Administration to undermine their access to care. Kuster has repeatedly called on Senate Leader Mitch McConnell to bring her legislation to a vote, which he has so far failed to do. Rep. Kuster is focused on working across the aisle to improve the Affordable Care Act, including proposals to address the cost of care and stabilize the individual marketplace, as well as push back against partisan efforts to undermine the ACA. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-introduces-bill-to-protect-landowners-facing-eminent-domain-for,Kuster Introduces Bill to Protect Landowners Facing Eminent Domain for Pipeline Construction,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC This week, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) joined her colleagues, Representatives Tom Malinowski (NJ-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20) and Congressman Jared Huffman (CA-02) to introduce the Fairness for Landowners Facing Eminent Domain Act. The legislation would reform the Natural Gas Act (NGA) to protect property owners facing eminent domain for the construction of pipelines. The bill amends the NGA to prevent pipeline companies from using eminent domain to take land from private citizens and to start making changes to it such as cutting down treesuntil they have obtained all of the federal and state permits necessary for the construction and operation of a pipeline project. It also prohibits the use of eminent domain for pipelines attached to facilities that export internationally (NGA Section 3 facilities), and it suspends eminent domain authority for companies that request material amendments to their existing certificates (e.g., to change the route of a pipeline). In the Granite State, safeguarding our natural resources and the rights of property owners is central to protecting our state's identity,said Congresswoman Kuster. The issue of natural gas transmission routes and the use of eminent domain hit close to home several years ago, when a proposed pipeline would have cut a needlessly destructive path across my district and endangered substantial plots of private or protected land. The Fairness for Landowners Facing Eminent Domain Act forces pipeline companies to be more thoughtful as they chart their pipeline routes. American families should never be placed below the energy demands of foreign countries, and also should not be forced to give up their land for ill-conceived pipeline projects. Property owners in Hunterdon County and throughout the country deserve to feel secure in their homes and on their land,said Congressman Malinowski.It makes no sense to allow pipeline companies to take and despoil a person's land if there is a good chance that a court or government body will eventually stop the pipeline from being built. New Jersey has a long and impressive record of preserving green spaces something that's as difficult as it is important in the most densely populated state in the country. Our hard work to protect our land and our investments in New Jersey's natural resources must be maintained. Homeowners who value their own green spaces and the role they play in protecting against environmental threats deserve the tools to fight back. We've recently fought and won costly battles against unwanted and unnecessary pipelines. The Fairness for Landowners Facing Eminent Domain Act will empower our local homeowners to prevent land grabs through the use of eminent domain. I'm grateful for Congressman Malinowski's leadership and look forward to continuing to partner with him to protect our green spaces, said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. Under current law, pipeline companies are shortchanging landowners. Property owners have a right to feel secure in their homes, and there should be common sense measures in place to prevent corporate interests from unfairly stripping people of their homes and land,said Congressman Huffman.This legislation establishes clear and fair practices to rebalance the system to work for citizens, not just corporations. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-impeachment-of-president-trump,Kuster Statement on Impeachment of President Trump,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Watch Rep. Kuster's statement on the impeachment of President Donald Trump here, or read below: Earlier this week, I returned from a bipartisan trip to Belgium to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge the Germans' last significant offensive during World War II. We celebrated with courageous 95-year-old American veterans who turned the tide at Bastogne and the Ardennes Forest, so that my generation and generations to come may live in peace and freedom from tyranny. My late father, Malcolm McLane, was shot down during the Battle of the Bulge and spent the final six months of World War II in a Nazi prisoner-of-war camp. In this solemn moment, on this historic day for our nation, I reflect on the legacy of my father and all World War II veterans. We owe them and all of the men and women who have served our nation an incredible debt of gratitude for their service and bravery. Today, we must defend a future worthy of their sacrifice. Just moments ago, I upheld my oath to protect and defend the Constitution when I cast my vote to charge President Donald John Trump with articles of impeachment. I did so with a heavy heart, to protect and defend the future of our great nation our American democracy for generations to come. The evidence and facts are clear and uncontested: President Trump has abused the power of the Presidency for his own personal gain, at the expense of our national security and the integrity of the 2020 election. Articles of impeachment are formal charges against the President this is not a vote to remove him from office. That decision will be made following a trial in the United States Senate. I hope that the Senate will hold a fair, transparent and thorough trial to get to the truth for the American people. Meanwhile, I will continue to focus my efforts on our important work to improve the lives of Granite Staters and all Americans. I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas, joyful holidays and peace in the New Year. May God bless the United States of America. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-pappas-aca-ruling-fifth-circuit-court,Statement from Congressman Pappas on the ACA Ruling by the Fifth Circuit Court,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released a statement following the Fifth Circuit Court ruling on the Affordable Care Act's constitutionality: The Affordable Care Act provides lifesaving health care and critical protections for people across New Hampshire,said Congressman Pappas.The repeated partisan attacks on the ACA are putting the health and well-being of Granite Staters in jeopardy. I remain committed to strengthening the Affordable Care Act and putting an end to the dangerous litigation and sabotage effort by this Administration and Republicans in Congress. Let's move forward to protect and expand coverage, lower costs, and improve health outcomes for Granite Staters. In his first 100 days in office, Congressman Pappastook to the House floorto reaffirm his commitment to expanding access to health care for New Hampshire families while calling on his colleagues to cease efforts to undermine the Affordable Care Act. Since taking office, Congressman Pappashas condemned the Administration's effortsto dismantle the Affordable Care Actthrough theTexas v. U.S. lawsuitandvoted to empower House Counselto intervene. Additionally, Congressman Pappas co-sponsored The Protecting Pre-Existing Conditions & Making Health Care Affordable Act which will lower health insurance premiums, strengthen protections for people with pre-existing conditions, and crackdown on junk health insurance plans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-pappas-voting-articles-impeachment,Statement from Congressman Pappas on Voting for Articles of Impeachment,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC- Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement after voting on the Articles of Impeachment: Today, guided by facts, the Constitution, and my conscience, I cast two votesto support and defend the Constitution of the United States and uphold our system of checks and balances. This is a solemn and serious day for our country that the President of the United States has brought this upon us. I cannot and will not stand idly by when a President compromises the rule of law and our national security for his own personal political benefit. To do so would be to violate my oath of office I swore before my colleagues and the residents of New Hampshire. The President has abused the powers of the highest office in the land and obstructed Congress when it sought to put facts on the table for the American people and hold him accountable. Our nation's founders created a government with shared powers and co-equal branches of government. They gave us the presidencynot a monarchy. They created a system where no one is above the law, even the President of the United States. It is clear that Constitutional lines have been crossed, and to vote against these articles would dishonor the wisdom of our founders and undermine the institutions of our democracy. The people of New Hampshire sent me to Congress to change how Washington works and to make a difference in the lives of families across the district that I've called home my entire life. And I will continue to work in a bipartisan fashion to lower the cost of prescription drugs, rebuild our nation's infrastructure, protect our drinking water, and ensure that veterans get the care and services they have earned. We have more work to do, and I committed to bringing people together around solutions.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/nh-delegation-announce-750k-in-federal-funding-to-improve-treatment-for-mothers-struggling-with-substance-use-and-their-infants,NH Delegation Announce $750K in Federal Funding to Improve Treatment for Mothers Struggling with Substance Use and Their Infants,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"NH Delegation Announce $750K in Federal Funding to Improve Treatment for Mothers Struggling with Substance Use and Their Infants December 18, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) today announced the award of $750,000 in federal funding to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services to improve quality of care and reduce costs for pregnant and postpartum women struggling with substance use and their infants. This funding is distributed from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through its Maternal Opioid Misuse (MOM) Model program. Across the country, substance use is now a leading cause of maternal death and poor maternal outcomes. Senator Shaheen has strongly supported efforts to address maternal mortality and opioid use disorder (OUD) among pregnant women, cosponsoring the Help for Moms and Babies Act, which was signed into law in 2018 and allows pregnant women receiving OUD treatment at certain residential facilities to be eligible for Medicaid coverage for prenatal services, and the MOMMA's Act, which would extend Medicaid coverage for low-income women for a full year following the birth of a child, rather than the current two-month postpartum coverage period. We need to ensure that mothers struggling with substance use have access to services that can protect the health and wellbeing of themselves and their children, and put them on the path to recovery, said Senator Shaheen. This federal grant will make a real, tangible difference in advancing these goals and will help save lives. Ensuring those on the frontlines of the substance use disorder epidemic have the resources they need to respond to this crisis will continue to be my top priority in the Senate. This federal grant will help mothers battling substanceuse disordersbuild better lives for themselves and their children,Senator Hassansaid. Talking with mothers recently at Moms in Recovery in Lebanon, I heard once again from them about the importance of increasing access to treatment. I will continue working to secure resources to combat the opioid crisis and turn the tide of this deadly epidemic. Preventing and treating substance misuse in pregnant women and new mothers is vital to combating the opioid and addiction epidemic, said Congresswoman Kuster. This funding will help new and expectant mothers in New Hampshire get back on their feet and live healthier lives, as well as improve the wellbeing of their infants and children. I will continue working to support those on the frontlines of the opioid epidemic and those who are struggling with addiction. If we hope to put this addiction epidemic behind us, it is critical that we not only provide treatment for those in need, but also work to break the cycle of addiction,said Congressman Pappas.These federal dollars will go a long way in doing just that by providing better coordinated care for mothers and their infants at a time when they are most in need. There is nothing more important to me than the health and well-being of our communities, and I will continue to work alongside the delegation to ensure we receive federal support to bring this epidemic to an end. Senator Shaheenhas spearheaded the fight against the substance use disorder epidemic in the Senate. In bipartisan funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2020, Shaheen secured a provision based on a key component in her Turn the Tide Act that provides flexibility for treatment providers to be able to use opioid response grant dollars to help patients suffering from meth and cocaine dependency, in addition to opioid use disorder. Shaheen helped negotiate the bipartisan agreement in 2018 that outlined the two years of opioid response spending totaling $6 billion to respond to the opioid crisis. This included theset-aside funding for states with the highest mortality rates, like New Hampshire. This critical additional funding, which the Senator helped broker, has beenincluded by Congressover each of the past three fiscal years. As a result of her efforts, New Hampshirereceiveda more thanten-fold increasein opioid treatment funding through the State Opioid Response (SOR) grant program. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/senate-foreign-relations-committee-approves-comprehensive-russian-sanctions-bill,Senate Foreign Relations Committee Approves Comprehensive Russian Sanctions Bill,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senate Foreign Relations Committee Approves Comprehensive Russian Sanctions Bill December 18, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (R-NH), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Cory Gardner (R-CO) issued the following statements after the Senate Foreign Relations Committee overwhelmingly voted to approve the Defending American Security from Kremlin Aggression Act (DASKA) of 2019. Adopted in a vote of 17-5, the comprehensive, bipartisan bill significantly increases the political, diplomatic, and economic pressure on the Russian Federation in response to its malign activities around the world. The legislation, which now heads to the Senate floor for full consideration, is designed to bolster the United States' ability to confront Russian aggression on several frontsby strengthening our commitment to NATO, establishing an elite State Department cyber unit, and levying wide-ranging sanctions on Russian entities and individuals. This bipartisan legislation sends a clear message that Congress will not stay on the sidelines while Russia continues to interfere in our elections, threatens Ukraine's sovereignty and sows discord in the transatlantic community, said Senator Shaheen. Our bill levies additional sanctions against Russia and reaffirms the Senate's voice and role in support of NATO to ensure the United States stands with our allies against Russian aggression. I urge Leader McConnell to bring this bill to the floor immediately. Among its many provisions, DASKA creates a fusion center within the government to better address challenges posed by Russia. The bill also gives U.S. prosecutors the ability to shut down botnets and other cyber tools that are used to attack election infrastructure. And it increases transparency in the U.S. real estate market, making it more difficult for Russian oligarchs to buy high end property. Sanctions in Response to Kremlin interference in democratic institutions abroad Sanctions on Russian banks that support Russian efforts to undermine democratic institutions in other countries Sanctions on investment in Russian LNG projects outside of Russia Sanctions on Russia's cyber sector Sanctions on Russian sovereign debt Sanctions on political figures, oligarchs, and family members and other persons that facilitate illicit and corrupt activities, directly or indirectly, on behalf of Vladimir Putin Sanctions in Response to Kremlin aggression in Ukraine Sanctions on Russia's shipbuilding sector in the event that Russia violates the freedom of navigation in the Kerch Strait or anywhere else in the world Sanctions with respect to support for the development of crude oil resources in Russia Sanctions on Russian stated owned energy projects outside of Russia Other key provisions of the legislation A strong statement of support for NATO and a requirement for two-thirds of the United States Senate to vote to leave NATO Provisions expediting the transfer of excess defense articles to NATO countries to reduce some NATO countries' dependence on Russian military equipment The creation of a National Fusion Center to Respond to Hybrid Threats. The aim of this center is to better prepare and respond to Russian disinformation and other emerging threats emanating from the Russian Federation The establishment of an Office of Cyberspace and the Digital Economy within the Department of State. This office will lead diplomatic efforts relating to international cybersecurity, Internet access, Internet freedom, the digital economy, cybercrime, deterrence and responses to cyber threats Provisions aimed to pressure the Russian government to halt its obstruction of international efforts to investigate chemical weapons attacks as well as punish the Russian government for chemical weapons production and use TheInternational Cybercrime Prevention Actwhich would give prosecutors the ability to shut down botnets and other digital infrastructure that can be used for a wide range of illegal activity; create a new criminal violation for individuals who have knowingly targeted critical infrastructure, including dams, power plants, hospitals, and election infrastructure; and prohibit cybercriminals from selling access to botnets to carry out cyber-attacks TheDefending the Integrity of Voting Systems Actwhich would allow the Department of Justice to pursue federal charges for the hacking of any voting system that is used in a federal election A requirement for the Secretary of State to submit a determination of whether the Russian Federation meets the criteria for designation as a state sponsor of terrorism A requirement for domestic title insurance companies to report information on the beneficial owners of entities that purchase residential real estate in high-value transactions Reinforcement for the State Department Office of Sanctions Coordination A report on the net worth and assets of Vladimir Putin A report on the assassination of Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov A reauthorization of the Countering Russia Influence Fund, which would provide assistance to European countries vulnerable to Kremlin interference Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-denounces-appeals-court-ruling-that-leaves-aca-in-jeopardy,Shaheen Denounces Appeals Court Ruling that Leaves ACA in Jeopardy,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Denounces Appeals Court Ruling that Leaves ACA in Jeopardy December 18, 2019 (Washington, DC)U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement in response to the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals' ruling on the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act: The American people should have certainty that the protections and coverage that they're provided by the ACA won't be stripped away because of hyper-partisan litigation, said Shaheen. Instead, this ruling affirms this reckless effort to strike down the health care law despite the fact that President Trump and Republican leadership have nothing in place to replace it. This is an attempt to do in the courts what couldn't be accomplished in Congress and the public is adamantly against. The American people should know that for now, the protections and coverage provided by the ACA remain the law of the land. I continue to work across the aisle to lower costs and improve the ACA, and call for an end to the partisan efforts to repeal the health care that so many Granite Staters and Americans depend on. Senator Shaheen has led efforts in the Senate to stabilize the health insurance markets and make health care affordable and accessible for all Americans. In government funding legislation passed by the House of Representatives yesterday, Shaheen helped secure a repeal of the Health Insurance Tax for individuals and small businesses. The government funding bill also repeals the Cadillac Tax and Medical Device Tax. Shaheenled bipartisan legislationwith Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO) to suspend implementation of the Health Insurance Tax from going into effect to help reduce premiums for Granite Staters. Earlier this month,she and Gardner sent a letterto Senate and House leadership reiterating their call for a suspension of the tax. Shaheen hassupported bipartisan effortsto repeal the Cadillac and Medical Device Taxes. In April, Shaheen led all 47 Senate Democratson a Senateresolutionthat would reverse the Department of Justice's (DOJ) decisionto side with U.S. District Court Judge Reed O'Connor'srulingto strike down the ACA's health care protections. Shaheen has alsoled efforts to restore fundingfor Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment advertising and outreach activities that the Trump administration cut by 90 percent in 2017. Earlier this year, Shaheen unveiled ahealth care affordability packagethat includes three pieces of legislation to reduce health care costs for patients and expand access to critical medical services. Together,theMarketplace Certainty Act,Improving Health Insurance Affordability ActandReducing Costs for Out-of-Network Services Actwould make essential reforms to the health care law that would help stabilize the marketplace, lower premiums for middle-class families and combat escalating out-of-pocket health care costs. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-statement-on-house-impeachment-vote,Shaheen Statement on House Impeachment Vote,2019-12-18,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Statement on House Impeachment Vote December 18, 2019 (Washington, DC)U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement after the House voted to impeach President Trump: Our founders believed, as I believe, that nobody is above the law in this country. That is why they laid out a process for impeachment in the Constitution, said Shaheen. As a Senator, I'm going to be a juror in any impeachment trial and that means I have a duty to withhold judgement, encourage a fair process and make a determination impartially. However, this impeachment process should not stop Congress from addressing urgent kitchen table issues important to Americans, such as lowering drug prices, making health care more affordable, supporting our veterans and safeguarding our national security. Majority Leader McConnell has been holding up bipartisan legislation that helps America's middle class for far too long and his blockade must come to an end. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-helps-advance-over-5-billion-to-address-the-opioid-epidemic-and,Kuster Helps Advance Over $5 Billion to Address the Opioid Epidemic and Other Substance Use Disorders In Federal Funding Bill,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02), the founder and co-chair of the Bipartisan Opioid Task Force, voted in favor of legislation in the House of Representatives that would put forward over $5 billion in funding to combat the opioid epidemic. Kuster has long advocated for robust funding to tackle this serious public health crisis. The legislation we advanced today demonstrates our strong commitment to continuing to combat the opioid and substance use epidemic in New Hampshire and across the country, said Kuster. I'm pleased that we've been able to come together in a bipartisan way in both the House and Senate to advance this funding that will make a real difference in the fight against the disease of addiction by bolstering treatment and recovery services and supporting law enforcement and interdiction efforts. While we have taken important steps towards stemming the tide of the opioid epidemic, there is much work that remains. I will continue to work with my colleagues to advocate on behalf of New Hampshire and deliver real results for our state and nation. The new federal spending bill provides over $5 billion in funding for the opioid epidemic, including investments to implement the SUPPORT Act, which Rep. Kuster cosponsored last Congress. Importantly, this bill provides $1.5 billion in flexible funding for the State Opioid Response grants, allowing providers to access these grants for opioids and other substance use disorder involving stimulants. This was a key provision of the Turn the Tide Act, which Rep. Kuster introduced as a companion to Senator Shaheen's legislation in September. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-works-to-secure-key-provisions-in-government-funding-bill-to,Kuster Works to Secure Key Provisions in Government Funding Bill to Protect Children and Support Granite State Communities,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) voted in support of bipartisan government funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2020. The bill includes a number of provisions Rep. Kuster has advocated for throughout the year. These include measures to protect the rights of unaccompanied migrant children, funding to boost rural economic growth, provisions to help educate individuals with disabilities, and more resources to address online child sexual abuse images. Appropriations are where Congress puts its values into action, said Rep. Kuster. Today we honored New Hampshire's values by advancing measures that will protect children and by investing in the Granite State's economic future. I was proud to help secure a $3 million increase in funding for the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC), which has financed critical economic development projects in New Hampshire. We also advanced resources that will support New Hampshire's schools so every child can receive a quality education, keep our kids safe online, and improve conditions for children in our immigration system and at the border. I will continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to fight for priorities that will help Granite State families and communities thrive. Provisions Kuster advocated for that were included in the FY 2020 government funding bill are: Assisting Low Income Households: Rep. Kuster helped secure $3.7 billion in funding for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) an increase of $50 million. As energy costs remain high, LIHEAP helps vulnerable households pay their energy bills and make ends meet their assistance is particularly crucial during the cold winter and hot summer months. Expanding Rural Economic Development: Rep. Kuster led her colleagues to increase funding for the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) from $22 million to $25 million. The NBRC invests in the economic development of rural communities across New England and the Northeast. This vital commission has served as a successful resource for innovative and entrepreneurial pursuits to spur job opportunities across the communities it works with. Increasing federal support for Individual with Disabilities Act (IDEA): Rep. Kuster supported efforts to increase funding for IDEA, which helps school districts pay to educate children with special needs. The FY20 appropriations legislation provides $13,885,228,000 in funding for this program a $400 million increase over FY19 levels. This funding will mean more federal aid to New Hampshire's schools and help relieve some of the burden on local taxpayers. Keeping Children Safe Online: Rep. Kuster co-lead a bipartisan effort to increase funding for the Missing and Exploited Children programs at the Department of Justice, which funds the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and Internet Crimes Against Children Task Forces. She helped secure $87,500,000 for this program a $5 million increase over FY19 funding levels which will aid efforts to crack down on child sexual abuse images, protect children from online predators, and provide law enforcement with more resources to hold those who harm children accountable. Protecting Unaccompanied Children: Rep. Kuster led the charge to secure $160,000,000 in funding for legal, post-release, and child advocacy services for unaccompanied migrant children a $50 million increase over FY19 levels. Unaccompanied migrant children with legal representation are five times more likely than children without representation to successfully claim asylum in the United States. Yet more than 60 percent of unaccompanied children in immigration court do not receive legal representation. This increase in funding will help ensure more unaccompanied children are able to navigate the immigration system. Investing in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: Rep. Kuster pushed for increased funding to advance the use of energy efficient technology and renewable energy to pave the way toward a clean energy economy. This funding would benefit the Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable energy and its critical programs that aim to secure America's energy future. Addressing the Veterans Disability Claims Processing Backlog: Rep. Kuster supported efforts to increase funding for the Veterans Benefits Administration. This bill would provide $125 million to hire additional claims and appellate staff and overtime to reduce the disability claims backlog for veterans. ##",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shaheen-kuster-applaud-inclusion-of-funding-for-research-efforts-at-us,Shaheen & Kuster Applaud Inclusion of Funding for Research Efforts at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Cold Regions Lab in Government Funding Legislation,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today applauded the inclusion of provisions they authored and supported in government funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2020 to bolster engineering and cold weather research at the U.S. Army Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) in Hanover. The legislation includes nearly $18 million in infrastructure improvements at the lab, as well as cold weather research projects in partnership with Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire. These improvements to infrastructure and cold weather research projects will go a long way toward developing capabilities that will better prepare our military to operate in cold and harsh environments, like the Arctic, said Senator Shaheen. I am very proud that both Dartmouth College and UNH will be able to collaborate with CRREL on this important work, continuing our state's legacy as a leader in innovation and scientific discovery. Every day, the U.S. Army Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) is doing important research to help the Armed Forces establish a strategic advantage in the Arctic region, said Rep. Kuster. I am proud to help CRREL acquire the equipment it needs to enhance our national security and encouraged that UNH and Dartmouth will have the opportunity to continue to partner with CRREL to support this important work. Specifically, the government funding legislation for FY2020 includes the following provisions to support cold weather and other research at CRREL: $6 million for a heavy load simulator to research military vehicle weight on frozen terrain and permafrost; $4 million to modernize an ice engineering facility to improve cold weather research capabilities; $4 million for Army research and development for energy technology and research in cold and artic regions in partnership with Dartmouth College; $3 million in Army research and development for military operations cold weather research in partnership with the University of New Hampshire; and $575,000 to support CRREL's research in the field of remote sensing and geographic information support. Earlier this year, Senator Shaheen helped secure funding for a collaboration between CRREL and Dartmouth College to research ways to improve energy services, delivery, storage and mobility for military bases in the Arctic. Congresswoman Kuster helped secure funding for the Heavy Load Simulator in appropriations legislation passed by the House this spring. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-bipartisan-appropriations-package-including-pappas-provisions-and,House Passes Bipartisan Appropriations Package Including Pappas Provisions and Top NH Priorities,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.- Today Congressman Chris Pappas voted for passage of two bipartisan appropriationsbillsthat provide for critical government services and benefit New Hampshire families. The two legislative packages are comprised of 12 bills that will fund the government through fiscal year 2020, and they include several amendmentsofferedby Congressman Pappas to expand care for female veterans, increase federal investments in combating the opioid epidemic, and strengthen our regional economy. Granite Staters sent me to Washington to make sure our government is working for them, and today I voted in favor of a bipartisan funding deal that reflects the priorities and values of our state,said Congressman Pappas.This package will protect the well-being of our communities and includes several provisions I championed including the repeal of burdensome health care taxes, increased opioid crisis response funding for the Departments of Justice and Health and Human Services, and increased investments in the EPA to safeguard our water and hold polluters accountable. This legislation also expands upon my efforts to ensure all our veterans receive the care they have earned with the inclusion of an amendment I introduced that provides the VA with $10 million to build out care for female veterans. The package will also help propel the Granite States's economy forward with a $61 billion investment in our nation's infrastructure and $2 million in funding I helped secure for the Northern Border Regional Commission to support the development of our economy. I am proud to serve as an advocate for the priorities of the Granite State in Washington, and I hope the Senate will join the House to send this legislation to the President's desk,said Pappas. Pappas championed provisions included in the FY2020 appropriations package: $10 million for women's health and mental health non-recurring maintenance (NRM) projects at the VA $2 million for comprehensive opioid abuse program grants $3 million for the Northern Border Regional Commission, bringing the total federal funding for FY 2020 to $25 million to support regional economic growth $550 million for USDA's Rural E-Connectivity program, which makes loans and grants for broadband deployment in rural communities, which remain critical in connecting New Hampshire communities. Additional provisions included in final legislation: $61 billion in infrastructure investments to rebuild our nation while creating jobs and improving road safety $9 billion for the Environmental Protection Agency to ensure clean air and water and to hold polluters accountable $80 billion for VA medical care and efforts to combat veteran homelessness and suicide $425 million in election security grants to states $1.5 billion in state opioid response grants $25 million for federal research at the CDC and NIH into our nation's gun violence epidemic Repeal of the health insurance, Cadillac health plan, and medical device taxes",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/house-sends-government-funding-legislation-with-key-shaheen-priorities-to-the-senate,House Sends Government Funding Legislation with Key Shaheen Priorities to the Senate,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"House Sends Government Funding Legislation with Key Shaheen Priorities to the Senate December 17, 2019 **Shaheen, a Senior Member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Secured Numerous NH Provisions in Government Funding Bill** **PFAS Measures Championed & Supported by Shaheen Included in Government Funding Legislation** **Shaheen-Authored Provision That Gives Treatment Providers Flexibility to Treat Meth, Cocaine Use Included in Government Funding Legislation** **ShaheenSecures Long-Term, EmergencyCare for U.S. Government Employees& Dependents WhoWere InjuredWhile Serving in China & Cuba** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and the Ranking Member of the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, issued the following statement in response to the newly released government funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2020. In her role on the Appropriations Committee, Shaheen helps write the government funding legislation that must be passed every year by Congress. The legislationwhich is written in two billswas passed by the House of Representatives this afternoon and will next be considered in the Senate before it is sent to the President to be signed into law. As I helped write this legislation, prioritizing the concerns I hear every day from our communities were at the top of my list. These bills make real progress on those issues expanding access to substance use disorder treatment, investing in PFAS research and remediation and finding bipartisan compromise to improve the health care law, said Shaheen. I'll continue to reach across the aisle to build on this important work, and I look forward to seeing this legislation swiftly through Congress and to the President's desk. Shaheen priorities included in fiscal year 2020 funding legislation include: Repeal of Health Insurance Tax The funding legislation includes an important health care priority for Senator Shaheen relief from the Health Insurance Tax for individuals and small businesses. The funding legislation would permanently repeal the Health Insurance Tax. The bill also repeals the Cadillac Tax and Medical Device Tax. Shaheen led bipartisan legislation with Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO) to suspend implementation of the health insurance tax from going into effect to help reduce premiums for Granite Staters. Earlier this month, she and Gardner sent a letter to Senate and House leadership reiterating their call for a suspension of the tax. Shaheen has supported bipartisan efforts to repeal the Cadillac and Medical Device Taxes. Flexibility for Treatment Providers to Use State Opioid Response Grants to Expand Treatment to Granite Staters with Meth & Cocaine Use The funding legislation includes a key Shaheen-authored provision that provides flexibility for treatment providers to be able to use opioid response grant dollars to help patients suffering from meth and cocaine dependency, in addition to opioid use disorder. Currently, federal law only allows State Opioid Response (SOR) grants to be used by providers to treat patients who suffer from opioid-related substance use disorders. The provision is based on a key component of Shaheen's Turn the Tide Act, which she introduced in July, and originated from Senator Shaheen's discussions with New Hampshire treatment providers. In October, Shaheen called on Senate Appropriations Committee leadership to provide this flexibility in the government funding legislation for FY2020. In addition to the flexibility provision, the bill also funds the SOR grant program at $1.5 billion for the year and maintains the 15 percent set-aside for hardest-hit states that Shaheen secured in government funding legislation in each of the past two years. Critical Funding for Department of Justice Anti-Opioid Grants Senator Shaheen procured $518 million in Department of Justice (DOJ) grant programs to help communities respond to substance abuse including opioids, which is an increase of $42 million from FY19 levels. Shaheen also successfully added language to the Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Program (COSSAP) at the DOJ to expand grant categories for new areas to include prevention and education programs for youth, law enforcement assisted diversion, and response teams to assist children dealing with the aftermath of opioid addiction. Boost in Federal Opioid Response Efforts In addition to boosting funding for anti-opioid grants, Shaheen also supported a number of other measures to combat the substance use disorder epidemic, including $476 million for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Enhanced State Opioid Overdose Surveillance and Prevention program; $41.68 billion for the National Institutes of Health, including $818 million to prioritize research into non-addictive alternatives to opioids, addiction treatment and pain treatment; $1.63 billion for community health centers (CHCs), which is funding in addition to the mandatory funding CHCs receive each year; and $90 million for the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act programs. Increase in Federal Resources for Department of Homeland Security to Interdict & Investigate Opioid-Related Cases Senator Shaheen secured $30.6 million for the Homeland Security Investigations (HIS) to support the agency's efforts of pursuing opioid-related cases. President Trump's budget proposal to Congress did not include any federal resources for HIS. Shaheen also successfully included federal resources for non-intrusive inspection equipment and other technologies at the southern border to help interdict drugs. Senator Shaheen has continuously advocated for technological investments at our southern border to effectively stem the flow of illicit drugs into the United States through ports of entry. Prioritize Inclusion of Life-Saving Opioid Overdose Reversal Drug in Airline Emergency Medical Kits Senator Shaheen added a provision directing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to issue additional guidance to air carriers to ensure the timely inclusion of opioid reversal drugs in emergency medical kits (EMKs) carried by passenger airlines. Earlier this year, Shaheen and Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) called on the FAA to act swiftly in issuing regulations requiring the inclusion of this lifesaving medication in EMKs. The agencyrecently agreedthat there is a need to add opioid antagonists like naloxone to EMKs. Shaheenled the charge in 2018, calling on the agency to issue these regulations in response to the nation's growing substance use disorder epidemic. Grant Funding for States to Improve Mental Health Services for Law Enforcement: Senator Shaheen worked to add $5 million for the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act, of which $3 million will be provided in grants for state and local law enforcement agencies to use for improved mental health services, training to reduce stigma of officers seeking help and programs to address handling repeated exposure to stress and trauma. Currently, federal agencies do not keep statistics regarding police suicide this legislation would direct the Department of Justice to collect data on this critical issue and report on it. Highest Funding Level Ever for Violence Against Women Act Programs For the third yearin a row, Senator Shaheen successfully added the highest funding amount ever for Violence Against Women Act programs, totaling $502.5 million. Shaheen is the Ranking Member of the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee that writes the funding legislation for DOJ programs, including VAWA. Funding for PFAS Health Impact Study and to Examine Safety of Firefighters' Personal Protective Equipment & Additional Federal Assistance for PFAS Remediation at Contaminated Sites Senator Shaheen has spearheaded efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to per-andpolyfluoroalkylsubstances (PFAS) contamination, respond to the chemical exposure and remediate polluted sites. In the government funding legislation, Shaheen secured an additional $10 million to support the PFAShealth impact study she establishedin the 2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Shaheen was previously successful in pushing for Pease to serve as a model site for the nationwide study, and it is currently accepting participants. The funding legislation also includes $251 million for aqueous firefighting foam replacement and disposal, and PFAS remediation at military bases. Senator Shaheen secured $2 million for research into firefighter personal protective equipment, which is a key component in her bipartisan bill with Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO) that takes important steps to address concerns regarding firefighters' occupational exposure to PFAS chemicals through their personal protective equipment. The funding legislation includes $43 million for the EPA to help states address PFAS contamination and remediation, as well as language authored by Shaheen that urges the EPA to expeditiously remediate Superfund sites contaminated by emerging contaminants, including PFAS. The bill also provides more than $12.8 million in support of EPA efforts to designate PFAS chemicals as hazardous substances under the Superfund law, also known as CERCLA. Earlier this year, Senator Shaheen cosponsored legislation that would mandate that the EPA within one year of enactment declare PFAS as hazardous substances eligible for cleanup funds under CERCLA. Continued Efforts on Pediatric Cancer Research Senator Shaheen helped secure a 50 percent increase over last year's levels for the implementation of Trevor's Law, which monitors cancer clusters including pediatric cancers and provides outreach to communities affected by cancer clusters. This year's funding bill includes $1.5 million to implement the law. A report from the CDC indicated that between 2003 and 2014, New Hampshire had the highest pediatric cancer rate in the countrywith 205 pediatric cancer cases per 1,000,000 in the population. Last year, Senator Shaheensuccessfully added an amendment to government funding legislationthat bolstered support for public outreach to raise awareness of contributing factors for pediatric cancers in New Hampshire. The funding legislation also provides $25 million for implementation of the Childhood Cancer STAR Act, which supports childhood cancer survivorship researchat the NIH. Federal Support to Establish National Cancer Registry for Firefighters This legislation includes $2.5 million to implement the Firefighter Cancer Registry Act, which Senator Shaheen cosponsored. The funding bill bolsters efforts to implement a national cancer registry that firefighters can voluntarily use to report cancer incidences. The registry tracks data on cancer rates among firefighters and helps identify cancer-related environmental risk factors associated with firefighting. Firefighters are more likely to be exposed to PFAS chemicals, which is found in firefighting foam. Federal Support for Firefighters Senator Shaheen bolstered funding for the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant program, securing $355 million a $5 million boost over last year's funding levels. She also secured a $5 million increase for a total of $355 million for the Assistance to Firefighter Grant program, which helps ensure state and local firefighters are adequately equipped. Continued Financial Relief for New Hampshire and New England Fishermen & Bolstered Investments for NH Ocean Research and Conservation Efforts Shaheen hasrepeatedlypreventedthe National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) from imposing the costly at-sea monitoring fee on Granite State fishermen, and she has once again secured necessary funding to prevent the burden from being imposed on fishermen. The bill includes $10.3 million in additional funding to cover the observer fees, as well as $2 million for lobster research, $2.5 million for New England groundfish research and $3 million for research and monitoring of the highly-endangered North Atlantic Right Whale, including a pilot program into innovative lobster gear. Shaheen successfully increased funding for Sea Grant by $6 million, totaling $74 million nationally. Sea Grant is a public-private partnership and collaborates with the University of New Hampshire to study marine and coastal resources and developments. Additionally, the bill includes $77 million for NOAA's Coastal Zone Management Grant program, which is a $1.5 million increase over previous funding levels. Additional Federal Resources to Coast Guard Fishing Safety Training & Research Grants Senator Shaheen worked to include $6 million for Coast Guard fishing safety training and research grants. Earlier this year, Shaheen introducedbipartisan legislationwith Senators Markey (D-MA), Sullivan (R-AK), King (I-ME), Collins (R-ME), Murkowski (R-AK), Warren (D-MA) and Hassan (D-NH) the Funding Instruction for Safety Health, and Security Avoids Fishing Emergencies (FISH SAFE) Act which would restore the size of the federal share of fishing safety training and research grants. Understanding the daunting conditions that fishermen face on the job, Senator Shaheen has worked across the aisle to support fishing safety programs. Prioritization of Maintenance Dredging for Rye Harbor Senator Shaheen helped procure $7.65 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers to complete necessary infrastructure projects in New Hampshire and across the country. This is $651 million above last year's funding level, and includes the funding necessary to begin maintenance dredging of Rye Harbor. Shaheen also added language to the bill that urges the Corps to expedite scheduled maintenance at small and low-use ports that have experienced unexpected levels of deterioration since their last dredging, such as Rye Harbor. Once funding legislation is signed into law, the Corps will develop its Work Plan for FY2020, in which Senator Shaheen will continue to urge the Corps to prioritize maintenance dredging at Rye Harbor. Senator Shaheen hascontinuously pushedfor dredging at the harbor, writing a letter to the Corpslast Octoberurging them to prioritize the project andtouring the harbor in Augustto see the shoaling up close and discuss the issue with Corps officials and local fishermen. Aftercontinued advocacyby Shaheen, last year theCorps includedemergency dredging for Hampton-Seabrook Harbor in its 2019 Work Plan. Investments at Pease Air National Guard Base Senator Shaheen fought to procure 12 KC-46 Pegasus refueling tankers. Thanks to strong advocacy by Senator Shaheen and the New Hampshire National Guard, Pease was selected as the Air Force's first Air National Guard KC-46 main operating base, an economic benefit to Pease and the surrounding community. The KC-46 replaces the Air Force's 1950's-era aerial refueling fleet of KC-135s and will serve as the backbone of American air operations for decades to come. The last KC-135departed Peasein March to make way for the KC-46. Shaheenparticipatedin the arrival event for the first KC-46 to Pease in August. Military Readiness Priorities for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Shaheen worked to authorize the procurement of two new Virginia-class submarineswhich are repaired and maintained at Portsmouth Naval Shipyardas well as the authorization of funds for advanced procurement to mitigate an attack submarine shortfall. Senator Shaheen has long been a steadfast supporter of the Virginia-class, and a fierce advocate for Shipyard priorities. Pay Raise for Service Members and Civilian Department of Defense Employees The funding legislation includes a 3.1 percent pay raise for service members and civilian Department of Defense workers. This is the largest increase in a decade. Support for Military Spouse Occupational Licensing Senator Shaheen secured $2.75 million to implement herbipartisan legislationwith Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) that willimprove thetransferabilityofmilitary spouses'occupational licenses, and also help alleviate the burden spouses endure if they're small business owners from having to constantly re-register their businesses as they movefrom state to statewith their families. Shaheen and Cotton succesfully added this legislation to the final FY2020 NDAA. At a press conference with Senator Cotton and Second Lady Karen Pence in May, Shaheen highlighted the story of Andrea Krull, whose husband is a Granite Stater, and her personal experience of having to continuously re-establish her business as a consultant with every move. Federal Assistance for the Beyond Yellow Ribbon' Program to Help Granite State Service Members & Families Senator Shaheen helped secure $20 million for the Beyond Yellow Ribbon (BYR) program, which funds the New Hampshire National Guard's Care Coordination Program. BYR programs provide outreach services to troops returning from deployment, including health care, marriage and financial counseling, substance misuse treatment and mental health services. Shaheen Saves NBRC from Elimination & Boosts Federal Investments Above Last Year's Funding Levels Senator Shaheen helped secure $25 million for the Northern Border Regional Commission, which is a $5 million increase above the FY2019 funding level and the highest the program has ever been funded. President Trump's budget proposal sought to eliminate the program entirely. In March, Shaheen and members of the New Hampshire Congressional Delegationvowed to fightthe President's efforts to cut funding for the program. The NBRC helps address community and economic development needs throughout the Northern Forest region. Last year, Senator Shaheen'sbipartisan legislationto extend the authorization of the NBRC and expand its reach to include Cheshire County and communities in Belknap County was included the Farm Bill, which was signed into law. The funding legislation also includes $750,000 for the NBRC State Capacity Building Grant Program, a new program Shaheen established to increase the region's capacity for business retention and expansion, increase access to high-speed broadband, and other critical infrastructure. Increased Funding for Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to Preserve Lands in NH & Across the Nation Senator Shaheen successfully secured $495 million in federal funding $60million over previous funding levels for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which helps preserve and maintain critical lands for national parks, forests, wildlife refuges and recreational areas across the country.Shaheen has led efforts to help securefull fundingandpermanent authorizationfor the LWCF, which has helped protect more than 2.5 million acres of land and supported tens of thousands of state and local outdoor recreation projects throughout the nation.Shaheen's bipartisanbill to permanently reauthorize the LWCF was included in legislationthat was signed into law earlier this year. Revitalizing America's Forest Economy Shaheen also secured $5million for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Community Wood Energy Program (CWEP), a competitive grant program that aims to assist with the costs of installing high-efficiency, biomass-fueled energy systems. This is the first time this program has received funding since it was first authorized in 2008. Senator Shaheen haslong advocatedfor America's forests and initiatives that would survey and repurpose biomass forclean energy uses. Shaheen's bipartisan legislation with Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) the Community Wood Energy Innovation Act was included in the Farm bill signed into law last year. Their bipartisan bill expands eligibility for CWEP, incentivizes investments in energy-efficient wood energy systems and supports facilities that repurpose low-grade, low-value wood that would otherwise be sent to landfills. Continued Support for Research and Development in Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy Programs Senator Shaheen worked to secure over $2.8billion for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), which is an increase of over $460million above last year's funding level. This includes $308.5million for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), a programlong-championed by Senator Shaheenthat helps to lower energy costs for low-income families by making energy efficiency modifications to their homes. The funding in this year's bill for WAP also increased by $51.5million. The bill also includes $62.5million for the State Energy Program (SEP), which assists states with the development of energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. President Trump's budget request for FY 2020 ended funding for both of these programs. The funding measure also includes Shaheen'sInvesting in State Energy Act, whichwould prevent undue delay in distributing the WAP and SEP funds to state agencies and local partners. Promoting American Energy Jobs Senator Shaheen worked to include language requiring the Department of Energy (DOE) to publish an annual energy and employment report to quantify energy jobs in the United States, and examine energy production and distribution sectors of the economy.This provision is based on Shaheen's bipartisan bill with Senator Martha McSally (R-AZ), the Promoting American Energy Jobs Act. The U.S. energy sector is a major driver of job creation and economic growth. Shaheen's provision will help improve our understanding of the employment makeup of this industry, which is critical to making informed policy and business decisions that will address workforce challenges and assist in the deployment of energy resources. Support for New Hampshire Public Lands The funding bill also includes language authored by Shaheen urging the U.S. Forest Service to improve coordination with state agencies and local partners to address the land management and law enforcement costs that have fallen to these local entities. While the cost of federal land management has grown substantially, much of the responsibility for daily activities on this land falls to state and local agencies. In New Hampshire, conservation officers patrol and are called upon to enforce laws and conduct search and rescue operations on more than 700,000 acres in the White Mountain National Forest. Last year,Shaheen led the New Hampshire delegation in a letterto the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service urging them to meet with the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department to discuss potential funding options to cover these federal land management expenses. Added Investments in Transportation and Infrastructure Senator Shaheen helped secure a $100 million increase in federal funding for the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program (formerly known as TIGER), which is run by the Department of Transportation and supports investments in transportation infrastructure projects across the country, totaling $1 billion for FY2020. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen has fought to bring federal dollars back to New Hampshire to invest in critical transportation and infrastructure projects to fix the Granite State's roads, rail, bridges and ports. In June, Shaheen reintroduced legislation, theStrengthen and Fortify Existing (SAFE) Bridges Act, to begin to address the more than 47,000 structurally deficient bridges across the country. Last month, Shaheen announced a $12 million BUILD grant for a bridge project in Hinsdale, New Hampshire. Increased Aid for Rural Small Businesses and Farmers to Make Energy Efficiency Improvements Senator Shaheen successfully boosted funding for the Rural Energy for American Program to $706 million for FY 2020, a significant increase over previous funding levels, which were $335 million in FY2019. Theprogramhelps farmers and small business owners in rural communities improve their energy efficiency or purchase renewable energy systems. Long-term Emergency Care for U.S. Government Employees & Dependents Injured while Serving in China and Cuba Shaheen successfully secured language to provide long-term, emergency care benefits for injured U.S.Governmentemployeesand their dependentswho served overseas. Currently, a group of over 40 employees have been designated by the U.S. Government as suffering injuries as a result of a hostile action or health incident while serving in China and Cuba. This provision would provide for their prescribed care, as well as the care of their injured dependents, if their insurance or worker's compensation benefits fall short. In March, CBS 60 Minutesreportedon the first-hand accounts of the diplomats serving in China who have experienced these alarming health conditions and the disturbing lack of care and support from the U.S. government, despite the fact that their symptoms appear to match those of U.S. diplomats who wereworking in Havana, Cuba. The 60 Minutes reportfeatured a letterfrom SenatorShaheento Secretary of State Mike Pompeo requesting that the State Department re-examine the cases from China and provide all injured personnel with equal access to treatment, leave and benefits. Implementation of Shaheen Legislation to Bolster Women's Leadership in Peace Negotiations & Conflict Resolution In 2017,Senator Shaheen's bipartisan legislation with Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), the Women, Peace and Security Act,was signed into law, requiring the U.S. Government to encourage the meaningful participation of women in conflict prevention and peace negotiationsfor the first time. To complement this mandate, Shaheen secured funding for the first time last year to implement key provisions of that bill at the Pentagon. This year, Shaheen has yet again secured a record amount, $7 million, to streamline women, peace and security priorities at the Department of Defense and to hire gender advisors, who amongst other duties, help conduct outreach to various populations in support of U.S. operations. TheWomen, Peace and Security Actensures the United States continues to advocate for women's inclusion and engagement in the peace-building process to prevent, moderate and resolve violent conflictworldwide. Direct Secretary of State to Comply with Law & Prioritize Afghan Women's Inclusion in Peace Negotiations Shaheen added her provision directing the Secretary of State to comply with theWomen, Peace and Security Act to prioritize Afghan women's inclusion in peace negotiations. TheWomen, Peace and Security Actbolsters women's roles in peace negotiations and conflict resolution around the world. Shaheen hasled efforts in Congresspushing the Trump administration to prioritize Afghan women's inclusion in peace negotiations. In February, Shaheenled a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, urging the administration to prioritize women's inclusion in peace negotiations between the United States and the Taliban in Afghanistan, and to protect the United States' investment in the rights of women and girls. During a Senate Foreign Relations hearing in April, Shaheen repeatedly asked Secretary of State Pompeo to commit to making Afghan women's inclusion in negotiations a foreign policy priority, to which he refused. Earlier this year,Shaheen met with women leadersin Afghanistan about the urgency and importance of their representation in the peace talks. Reauthorize Afghan Special Immigrant Visas As the lead in the Senate for the continuation of the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program, Senator Shaheen secured 4,000 additional Afghan SIVs in this spending legislation. The SIV program is the only path to ensuring the safety of Afghan allies that have aided U.S. service members and diplomats. Shaheenhas led bipartisan effortsin Congress to reauthorize additional Afghan SIVs, and historically partnered with Senator John McCain (R-AZ) on this priority.Shaheen introduced new bipartisan legislationearlier this yearthat would reauthorize 4,000 Afghan SIVs for FY 2020. Deterring Russian Influence Senator Shaheen supported $290 million for the Countering Russian Influence Fund, which helps bolster the defenses of nations under threat of Russian influence and interference throughout Europe and Eurasia. Senator Shaheen has led calls in the Senate for investment and reforms to prevent attacks on our democracy which includesintroducing legislationthat would require presidential campaigns to report foreign interference in U.S. elections. She has also led efforts in Congress to hold Russia accountable for its election interference.Because of her role as a negotiatoron Russia sanctions legislationknown as CAATSA and her efforts to hold Russia accountable for its aggression,Shaheen was sanctioned by the Kremlin in 2017. Key Federal Investments in Before-and After-School Programs At a previous Senate hearing,Senator Shaheen pressed Department of Education Secretary Betsy DeVoson the importance of funding 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC), which support 68 after-school programs and approximately 6,000 students in New Hampshire. Though the President's budget proposal for FY 2020 sought to eliminate the grant program, Senator Shaheen fought to ensure continued funding and helped deliver $1.25 billion in this funding legislation. More than $1 Billion Increase for Early Childhood Education Senator Shaheen successfully included massive increases to fund key early childhood education programs at record levels. Specifically, the bill provides an additional $550 million for Head Start, funding the program at $10.6 billion, as well as an additional $550 million increase to $5.826 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant, which provides funding to states to support child care programs and services. Increased Funding for Special Education Senator Shaheen secured a $410 million increase for Individuals with Disabilities Education Act grants to states, funding these at a total of $13.6 billion. This federal funding is critical for helping states and school districts cover the costs of providing free and appropriate public education for all students with disabilities. Senator Shaheen leads an annual letter to Appropriations Committee leadership calling for robust funding for these grants. Bolstering Investments in Diabetes Prevention and Research Senator Shaheen, co-chair of the Senate Diabetes Caucus, saw to a $2 million increase in funding over last year's levels for the National Diabetes Prevention Program at the CDC for a total of $27.3 million. Shaheen has workedto increase awareness of the threats posed by diabetes, invest in research and improve access to treatment options.Shaheen has consistently pressed to hold insulinmanufacturers,insurersand PBMs accountable for the skyrocketing cost of life-saving insulin. In March, Shaheen and Senator Collins (R-ME) reintroduced their billto expand access to diabetes self-management training, and last month theyled the bipartisan push in the Senateto ensure continued support for the Special Diabetes Program (SDP). Authorization for the SDP was also extended until May 2020 as a part of the funding bill. Senator Shaheen also successfully secured an $85 million increase in funding for the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) within NIH. This additional funding will support NIDDK's work to advance research on treatments for diabetes.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/senate-sends-national-defense-bill-with-key-shaheen-authored-provisions-to-presidents-desk,Senate Sends National Defense Bill with Key Shaheen-Authored Provisions to President’s Desk,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senate Sends National Defense Bill with Key Shaheen-Authored Provisions to President's Desk December 17, 2019 **Defense bill includes ban on PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam, continued funding for health impact study and Shaheen's bipartisan legislation to expedite analysis of water contaminants including PFAS** **Bill provides a pay raise to service members, eliminates the Widow's Tax and includes Shaheen's bipartisan legislation to provide support to military spouses** **Bill prioritizes role of Pease and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard** **Bill Includes Shaheen'sLegislation to Crack Down on Fentanyl Coming from China & Mexico** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee which authors the annual defense bill, issued the following statement after the Senate passed the fiscal year (FY) 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), annual defense legislation that authorizes national defense programs and priorities for the year. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Shaheen helps write the defense bill every year and successfully included a number of her provisions in this year's bill that prioritize New Hampshire and a strong national defense. The bill has passed both chambers of Congress and will be sent to the President to be signed into law. As a senior member of the committee that writes this bill, I'm very pleased that the many important provisions responding to New Hampshire concerns and the needs of our military families will soon become law, said Shaheen. I appreciate the bipartisan effort that went into crafting this legislation to increase pay for our service members, provide financial relief to military families, boost investments in our state's role in support of our national defense and much more. Now that Congress has done its job, I urge the President to move expeditiously and sign this legislation into law. Regarding the PFAS provisions in the legislation, Shaheen added: This bill makes important progress on our efforts to combat PFAS exposure continuing the health impact study and phasing out the use of PFAS in Department of Defense firefighting foam but more work is urgently needed to ensure no family fears the safety of their drinking water, said Shaheen. I'll continue to work across the aisle, and with our state and local partners, to improve accountability and transparency to stop PFAS exposure and hold those who pollute responsible. On her bipartisan provision to support military spouses and ease regulations hindering the transfer of occupational licensing and small business registration from state to state: Our military families make enormous sacrifices on behalf of our country, so if we have the opportunity to help make things a little easier for them, we need to seize it,saidShaheen. Military spouses face serious challenges starting over in new communities, which are exacerbated when they have to jump through hoops to re-establish their professions.This bipartisan legislation is a commonsense fix to a bureaucratic problem that hinders military spouses from practicing their professions or restarting their businesses as they move with their families throughout the country. I look forward to this bipartisan fix soon becoming law. Shaheen's comments on the elimination of the military widow's tax that affects as many as 65,000 military spouses nationwide: The last thing that military spouses should have to deal with after losing a loved one is an unjust reduction in income,said Shaheen. This bipartisan reform finally provides the surviving spouses of our servicemen and women with the full benefits and financial assistance to which they're entitled. I'm glad we were able to work across the aisle to take this important step on behalf of military families. Read more here about Senator Shaheen's priorities that were included in the FY 2020 NDAA: Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-and-kuster-applaud-inclusion-of-funding-for-research-efforts-at-us-army-corps-of-engineers-cold-regions-lab-in-government-funding-legislation,Shaheen & Kuster Applaud Inclusion of Funding for Research Efforts at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Cold Regions Lab in Government Funding Legislation,2019-12-17,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen & Kuster Applaud Inclusion of Funding for Research Efforts at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Cold Regions Lab in Government Funding Legislation December 17, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today applauded the inclusion of provisions they authored and supported in government funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2020 to bolster engineering and cold weather research at the U.S. Army Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) in Hanover. The legislation includes nearly $18 million in infrastructure improvements at the lab, as well as cold weather research projects in partnership with Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire. These improvements to infrastructure and cold weather research projects will go a long way toward developing capabilities that will better prepare our military to operate in cold and harsh environments, like the Arctic, said Senator Shaheen. I am very proud that both Dartmouth College and UNH will be able to collaborate with CRREL on this important work, continuing our state's legacy as a leader in innovation and scientific discovery. Every day, the U.S. Army Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) is doing important research to help the Armed Forces establish a strategic advantage in the Arctic region, said Rep. Kuster. I am proud to help CRREL acquire the equipment it needs to enhance our national security and encouraged that UNH and Dartmouth will have the opportunity to continue to partner with CRREL to support this important work. Specifically, the government funding legislation for FY2020 includes the following provisions to support cold weather and other research at CRREL: $6 million for a heavy load simulator to research military vehicle weight on frozen terrain and permafrost; $4 million to modernize an ice engineering facility to improve cold weather research capabilities; $4 million for Army research and development for energy technology and research in cold and artic regions in partnership with Dartmouth College; $3 million in Army research and development for military operations cold weather research in partnership with the University of New Hampshire; and $575,000 to support CRREL's research in the field of remote sensing and geographic information support. Earlier this year, Senator Shaheen helped secure funding for a collaboration between CRREL and Dartmouth College to research ways to improve energy services, delivery, storage and mobility for military bases in the Arctic. Congresswoman Kuster helped secure funding for the Heavy Load Simulator in appropriations legislation passed by the House this spring. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-joins-bipartisan-delegation-in-belgium-and-luxembourg-to,Kuster Joins Bipartisan Delegation in Belgium and Luxembourg to Commemorate 75th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge,2019-12-16,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Today, Rep. Annie Kuster returned from a bipartisan Congressional delegation to Belgium and Luxembourg to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge. Kuster's late father, Malcolm McLane, was flying in his P-47 fighter plane when he was shot down during the Battle of the Bulge on Christmas Eve in 1944 and spent the final months of World War II in a Nazi prisoner-of-war camp. During the congressional delegation, Kuster and her colleagues met with veterans of the Battle of the Bulge in Bastogne, Belgium and took part in several events, including an official ceremony at the Mardasson Memorial to mark the 75th anniversary. Photos from the trip can be found here. It was deeply moving to join my colleagues to honor the memory of the thousands of soldiers and allies who lost their lives during the Battle of the Bulge, said Kuster. I'm humbled by the courage and bravery of my father and his fellow servicemembers who fought unspeakable evil to protect our nation and the freedoms we hold dear. We are forever grateful for their sacrifice, and we must continue working to ensure all those who serve have access to the care and support they've earned. The congressional delegation was led by Speaker Nancy Pelosi. In addition to Rep. Kuster, members of the Congressional Delegation included: Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-SC), Chairman Ted Deutch (D-FL), Ranking Member Mike Conaway (R-TX), Rep. Susan Davis (D-CA), Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE), Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Rep. Joe Courtney (D-CT), Rep. Mike Quigley (D-IL), Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA), Rep. Paul Cook (R-CA), Rep. Donald Norcross (D-NJ), Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA), and Rep. Thomas Suozzi (D-NY). The Battle of the Bulge began on December 16, 1944, and was the Germans' last significant offensive during World War II. The attack came as a surprise to the Allied Forces in the Ardennes Forest in Belgium and Luxembourg. In spite of the bitterly cold weather and being significantly outnumbered, the Allies stood their ground to fight back against the German army. After six weeks of conflict, the battle took the lives of 19,000 American soldiers and wounded 47,500, with 23,000 troops captured or missing in action. The heroic actions of the Allied Forces during the battle helped pave the way for the surrender of Nazi Germany in May 1945. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/breaking-shaheen-authored-provision-that-gives-treatment-providers-flexibility-to-treat-meth-cocaine-use-included-in-government-funding-legislation,"BREAKING: Shaheen-Authored Provision That Gives Treatment Providers Flexibility to Treat Meth, Cocaine Use Included in Government Funding Legislation",2019-12-16,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"BREAKING: Shaheen-Authored Provision That Gives Treatment Providers Flexibility to Treat Meth, Cocaine Use Included in Government Funding Legislation December 16, 2019 **Overdose Deaths in NH Related to Methamphetamine & other Substances Have Risen Sharply in 2019** **This Flexibility is a Key Component in Shaheen's Turn the Tide Act, and Originated From Discussions with New Hampshire Treatment Providers** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement announcing that government funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2020 released by Senate and House leaders today will include a key Shaheen-authored provision that provides flexibility for treatment providers to be able to use opioid response grant dollars to help patients suffering from meth and cocaine dependency, in addition to opioid use disorder. Currently, federal law only allows State Opioid Response (SOR) grants to be used by providers to treat patients who suffer from opioid-related substance use disorders. The provision is based on a key component of Shaheen's Turn the Tide Act, which she introduced in July, and originated from Senator Shaheen's discussions with New Hampshire treatment providers. In October, Shaheen called on Senate Appropriations Committee leadership to provide this flexibility in the government funding legislation for FY2020. Senator Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to combat the opioid epidemic and helped negotiate a bipartisan agreement in 2018 that resulted in a large national increase in opioid treatment funding through the SOR grant program over two years. Shaheen also fought to include afunding set-aside for states with the highest mortality rates. These efforts led to a 1000% increase in federal treatment and prevention funding for New Hampshire. The substance use disorder epidemic we're facing today isn't the same one we were fighting a few years ago, so as this crisis evolves so should our response, said Shaheen. By empowering treatment providers with the ability to use these federal grants for a broader range of substance misuse, we can help ensure more Granite Staters get the help they desperately need. It's so heartbreaking to see the devastation to families and communities from this crisis and we need to make sure treatment providers have the tools they need to save lives. This provision was the product of conversations with Granite Staters on the frontlines of this crisis. I'll continue to work closely with state and local partners to ensure they have the resources they need to combat the full scope of this epidemic. In addition to the flexibility provision, the bill also funds the SOR grant program at $1.5 billion for the year and maintains the 15 percent set-aside for hardest-hit states that Shaheen secured in government funding legislation in each of the past two years. Other important priorities to combat the opioid crisis and deliver meaningful resources to New Hampshire include: $476 million for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Enhanced State Opioid Overdose Surveillance and Prevention program, which provides necessary data on fatal and nonfatal opioid overdoses, as well as potential risk factors; $41.68 billion for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which is a $2.6 billion increase over last year's funding level, and includes $818 million for research into non-addictive alternatives to opioids, addiction treatment and pain treatment; $518 million in Department of Justice (DOJ) grant programs to help communities respond to substance abuse including opioids, which is an increase of $42 million from FY19 levels. Shaheen also successfully added language to the Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Program (COSSAP) at the DOJ to expand grant categories for new areas to include prevention and education programs for youth, law enforcement assisted diversion, and response teams to assist children dealing with the aftermath of opioid addiction; $1.63 billion for community health centers (CHC), which is funding in addition to the mandatory funding CHCs receive each year; $25 million through the SUPPORT Act for housing assistance for those struggling with substance use disorders, of which New Hampshire will receive up to $1.17 million; and $90 million for the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act programs. These programs distribute federal grants to state agencies that deal with child abuse and neglect. This is an important priority in New Hampshire, which faces a backlog of cases partially due to the impact of the opioid epidemic on families. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/pfas-provisions-championed-and-supported-by-shaheen-included-in-newly-released-government-funding-legislation,PFAS Provisions Championed & Supported by Shaheen Included in Newly Released Government Funding Legislation,2019-12-16,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"PFAS Provisions Championed & Supported by Shaheen Included in Newly Released Government Funding Legislation December 16, 2019 **$10 Million to Continue Nationwide PFAS Health Impact Study Established by Shaheen** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement announcing that government funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2020 released by Senate and House leaders today will include a number of provisions authored and supported by Shaheen to respond to per-andpolyfluoroalkylsubstances (PFAS) contamination. Some of these priorities include an additional $10 million to continue the nationwide PFAS health impact study that Shaheen established in the FY2018 defense bill and funding for PFAS personal protective equipment research for firefighters' protective gear. The health risks and concerns related to PFAS exposure are frightening for affected families. No one should be afraid to turn on the tap and no firefighter or service member should fear for their own safety because of their gear or the equipment they use. Unfortunately, this is a reality for too many people who have been impacted by PFAS exposure, which is why a federal response must be a top congressional priority. Today's legislation makes good on that effort and includes a number of my measures to tackle this pervasive problem, said Shaheen. Continuing the health impact study, boosting resources for research and expediting cleanup of contaminated sites are critical to understanding and stopping this problem. This funding legislation takes a number of important steps forward and I'll keep raising this issue to ensure our communities get the answers and help they need. Specifically, the government funding legislation for FY2020 includes the following provisions to respond to PFAS exposure: $10 million to continue the PFAS health impact study Shaheen established in the FY2018 defense bill; $2 million for research into firefighter personal protective equipment, which is a key component in Shaheen's bipartisan bill with Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO) that takes important steps to address concerns regarding firefighters' occupational exposure to PFAS chemicals through their personal protective equipment; $251 million for aqueous firefighting foam replacement and disposal and for PFAS remediation at military bases; $43 million for the EPA to help states address PFAS contamination and remediation, as well as language authored by Shaheen that urges the EPA to expeditiously remediate Superfund sites contaminated by emerging contaminants, including PFAS; and More than $12.8 million in support of EPA efforts to designate PFAS chemicals as hazardous substances under the Superfund law, also known as CERCLA. Earlier this year, Senator Shaheen cosponsored legislation that would mandate that the EPA within one year of enactment declare PFAS as hazardous substances eligible for cleanup funds under CERCLA. Senator Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to address PFAS exposure and established the first-ever nationwide PFAS health impact study in FY2018 defense legislation. Senator Shaheen successfully fought for Pease to serve as a model site for the nationwide study, and it is currently accepting participants. In addition to the priorities secured by Shaheen in this appropriations bill, Shaheen also recently announced numerous measures that she successfully added to the annualdefense legislation for FY2020.The defense bill includes Shaheen's legislation to confront occupational exposure to PFAS theProtecting Military Firefighters from PFAS Act, Shaheen's provision that would phase out the Department of Defense's useof firefighting foam containing PFAS, and authorization of the $10 million for the health impact study that Shaheen included in the government funding bill released today. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-secures-long-term-emergency-care-for-us-government-employees-and-dependents-who-were-injured-while-serving-in-china_cuba-in-government-funding-bill,"Shaheen Secures Long-Term, Emergency Care for U.S. Government Employees & Dependents Who Were Injured While Serving in China & Cuba in Government Funding Bill",2019-12-16,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Secures Long-Term, Emergency Care for U.S. Government Employees & Dependents Who Were Injured While Serving in China & Cuba in Government Funding Bill December 16, 2019 Shaheenhas led efforts in the Senate to provide care, leave and benefits to federal government employeesand family members suffering from brain injuries received in Cuba and China under mysterious circumstances. (Washington, DC)U.S. Senator JeanneShaheen(D-NH), a senior member of the Appropriations and Foreign Relations committees, issued the following statement after successfully securing language to provide long-term, emergency care benefits for injured U.S.Governmentemployees serving overseas and their dependents in the recently announced bipartisan and bicameral omnibus appropriations bills. These employees have been designated by the U.S. Government as suffering injuries as a result of a hostile action or health incident while serving in China and Cuba. The final text of the legislation was released just moments ago and will soon be voted on by the House and Senate.Over 40 U.S. government employees are affected, not including dependents. These injuries, andsubsequent treatment by the U.S. Government, have been a living nightmare for these dedicated public servants and their families,saidShaheen. Our diplomats, personnel and their families in China and Cuba experienced mystifying injuries while serving our country, and they must be assured that our government will stand by them as they continue on their path toward recovery. It's time to right this wrong and that's why I pushed congressional leadership to include this provision in the bipartisan government funding legislation. There is still tremendous uncertainty surrounding the circumstances that led to these injuries, but that should in no way prevent our government from caring for those who have sacrificed so much in the line of duty. Specifically, Senator Shaheen's provision in support of these diplomats would authorize the State Department to provide the following: Long-term, emergency care benefits to federal employees that were injured as a part of their duties in China and Cuba; Allow dependents of these employees to receive benefits if their primary insurance denies their claims; and Would also allow USG employees to receive compensation if their injuries preclude them from working a full work schedule. In March, CBS 60 Minutesreportedon the first-hand accounts of the diplomats serving in China who have experienced these alarming health conditions and the disturbing lack of care and support from the U.S. government, despite the fact that their symptoms appear to match those of U.S. diplomats who wereworking in Havana, Cuba. The 60 Minutes reportfeatured a letterfrom SenatorShaheento Secretary of State Mike Pompeo requesting that the State Department re-examine the cases from China and provide all injured personnel with equal access to treatment, leave and benefits. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-pappas-articles-impeachment,Statement From Congressman Pappas On Articles Of Impeachment,2019-12-15,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC- Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement on the articles of impeachment coming before the House of Representatives this week: ""The people of New Hampshire sent me to Congress to change how Washington works and to make a difference in the lives of families across the district that I've called home my entire life. My colleagues in the House and I have passed legislation to lower the cost of prescription drugs, rebuild our nation's infrastructure, protect our drinking water, and ensure that veterans get the care and services they have earned. We have more work to do, and I committed to bringing people together around solutions. Granite Staters also sent me to Congress to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and uphold our system of checks and balances. It is with those responsibilities in mind that I supported the creation of an inquiry into President Trump's actions with respect to Ukraine. This week, the House of Representatives will consider two Articles of Impeachment from the Judiciary Committee that was the product of that inquiry. Article 1 charges the President of the United States with abuse of power. Using the powers of his high office, $391 million in U.S. military assistance, and the promise of a White House meeting, President Trump solicited the interference of a foreign government for his own personal political benefit. Article 2 charges the President of the United States with obstruction of Congress. Early in this inquiry, the White House declared that it would not cooperate and has directed members of the Executive Branch and federal agencies not to comply with requests for testimony, documents, and information. I have reviewed the articles and the underlying evidence and testimony very closely. I have heard from constituents on all sides of this issue. Ultimately, this comes down to the facts, the Constitution, and my conscience. What the President has done is blatantly wrong, and I will not stand idly by when a President compromises the rule of law and our national security for his own personal political benefit. I will support both articles when they come to the floor for a vote. The President abused the powers of his office and obstructed Congress as it sought to put facts on the table for the American people and hold him accountable. Our nation's founders created a government with shared powers and co-equal branches of government. They gave us the presidencynot a monarchy. They created a system where no one is above the law, even the President of the United States. If Congress does not act in this case where bright Constitutional lines have been crossed, we dishonor the wisdom of our founders and undermine the institutions of our democracy. This is a solemn time for our country, and this decision is one I make with a heavy heart. But we must be clear: the President of the United States has brought this upon us. Members of Congress have no choice but to uphold our oath of office and pass these articles of impeachment.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/congress-in-your-corner/catching-up-with-annie/providing-relief-at-the-pharmacy-counter,Providing relief at the pharmacy counter,2019-12-13,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend, Lowering the Price of Prescription Drugs The House took the historic step yesterday ofpassing H.R. 3, theElijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Actto lower the price of prescription drugs and give Americans peace of mind in being able to afford their medications. I was proud to secure$10 billion in funding to fight the opioid epidemicover the next five years. I urge the Senate to swiftly bring this commonsense legislation to a vote so we can provide the American people with much-needed relief at the pharmacy counter. You can watch me speak in support of H.R. 3 on the House floorhere. Speaking in favor of H.R. 3. Watchhere. Strengthening and Modernizing Our Trade Agreements I'm pleased that a tentativedeal on the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA)has been reached between House Democrats and the White House. Trade supports nearly 50,000 jobs in New Hampshire, and I have supported strengthening and modernizing our trade agreements to reflect our advanced 21st Century economy. The agreement that was presented to Congress needed to be improved to ensure USMCA is fully enforceable, protects workers and our environment and preserves Congress's ability to lower prescription drug costs. I am pleased to hear these improvements are reflected in the agreement and look forward to reviewing its full contents and working in a bipartisan manner to strengthen our trade relationships with Canada and Mexico. Upholding the Constitution Today, the House Judiciary Committee approved two articles of impeachment against President Trump: one for abuse of power and the second for obstruction of Congress. After detailed hearings in the House Intelligence and Judiciary Committees, the facts are clear and uncontested: President Trump has abused the power of the Presidency for his own personal gain, at the expense of our national security and the integrity of the 2020 election. I believe the President has violated his oath of office, and his actions represent a clear and present danger that he will continue to abuse his power for his own political gain. If there is information that clears President Trump of wrongdoing, he should provide it to Congress and the American people. Instead, he continues to block witnesses from testifying and stonewall the investigation in order to cover up his misconduct. Unfortunately, President Trump has left us no choice. As Members of Congress, we took an oath to protect our Constitution, and we must ensure that no one is above the law, not even the President of the United States. You can watch my full statement on the articles of impeachmenthere. Speaking about the articles of impeachment. Watchhere. Giving Our Servicemembers a Much-Needed Pay Increase I'm thrilled the Housepassed the National Defense Authorization Act of 2020 on Wednesday. This bipartisan legislation includes provisions I led and advocated for that would reduce wasteful spending, protect servicemembers from sexual violence and improve support to families of fallen servicemembers. The bill also includes a 3.1% pay increase for our nation's servicemembersthe largest in a decadeand 12 weeks of paid parental leave for all civilian federal employees. I'm excited to see these provisions included as part of our nation's defense priorities. Keeping Our Children Safe This week, I joined Representatives Anthony Gonzalez, Guy Reschenthaler and Lucy McBath (D-GA) and Senators Marsha Blackburn and Catherine Cortez Masto tointroduce theEliminate Network Distribution of Child Exploitation Act.This legislation will extend the period of time that technology companies are required to preserve information about child sexual abuse images they report to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Nothing is more important than the safety of our children, and I'm proud to join with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to announce this commonsense bill. Creating a Future Free from Sexual and Domestic Violence I was proud to join Representatives Pete Olson, Gwen Moore, Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Jackie Speier inleading a bipartisan letterto call for improved funding to help survivors of sexual and domestic violence rebuild their lives and prevent sexual violence from ever occurring. Intimate partner violence ravages lives and generates billions in costs for survivors, their communities, and our nation. Paving a path toward a future in which these crimes have no place in our society will protect Americans from domestic and sexual violence and save taxpayer dollars. I look forward to my continued work as the Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Task Force to End Sexual Violence to ensure that survivors have the tools they need to heal and thrive. To Get Health Coverage for 2020, Sign Up by December 15th! There are just two days left to get health coverage for 2020. Open Enrollment for the Affordable Care Act ends on Sunday. Nothing is more important than your health to find the plan that's best for you and your family, visithealthcare.govand sign up before the December 15th deadline. Here For You My biggest responsibility as a member of Congress is to serve you, the people of New Hampshire's second congressional district. Please continue to reach out to my office with any questions, concerns or ideas. You can call my Concord office at 603-226-1002 or my Washington, DC office at 202-225-5206. Thank you, as always, for all the wonderful contributions you make to New Hampshire. I hope you have a great weekend! Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-collins-and-isakson-reintroduce-international-violence-against-women-act,"Shaheen, Collins and Isakson Reintroduce International Violence Against Women Act",2019-12-13,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Collins and Isakson Reintroduce International Violence Against Women Act December 13, 2019 **Bipartisan legislation would make combatting violence against women and girls a top U.S. diplomatic priority** (Washington, DC) Yesterday, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) led Susan Collins (R-ME) and Johnny Isakson (R-GA) in re-introducing theInternational Violence Against Women Act(IVAWA), bipartisan legislation to ensure combatting gender-based violence around the world remains a top diplomatic and development priority for the United States. ""One in three women and girls around the world will report experiencing gender-based violence in their lifetimes. By denying women and girls the chance to rise to their full potential, gender-based violence stunts economic, political and social progress in our communities, said Senator Shaheen. The International Violence Against Women Act will ensure combatting gender-based violence around the world remains a top diplomatic and development priority for the United States. This not only means stopping sexual abuse and trafficking, domestic violence, early and forced marriages and other forms of gender-based violence, but also changing societal views and norms in places around the world where women and girls are not agents of their own future. In addition to being a pressing human rights issue, violence against women and girls contributes to inequality and political instability, making it a security issue as well as a moral issue for us all. Our bipartisan bill would ensure that the U.S. continues to take a leadership role in combatting such violence around the world, said Senator Collins.I am committed to continuing to work with my colleagues to end gender-based violence and to provide the assistance and resources necessary to achieve this goal. The United States must continue to be a leader in the fight to end gender-based violence around the world. The consequences of violence against girls and women at home and abroad are far-reaching, and the International Violence Against Women Act will help us better coordinate these important efforts, said Senator Isakson. Ensuring that women and girls around the world have the opportunity to reach their full potential, free from the threat of violence, must remain a priority for all of us. Specifically, theInternational Violence Against Women Actwould: Require the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to develop and implement a U.S. global strategy to prevent and respond to gender-based violence; Permanently authorize the State Department Office of Global Women's Issues and the Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women's Issues to head that Office; Permanently authorize the USAID Senior Coordinator for Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment; and Require interagency coordination, monitoring and evaluation of programs and regular briefings to Congress. The only woman on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Senator Shaheen is a fierce advocate for women and girls in the United States and around the globe. Shaheen has prioritized issues to empower women, which include fighting forthe rights of sexual assault survivors, advocating onbehalf offamily planning and women's global health, securingwomen leadership roles in conflict resolution and peace negotiationsand authoringlegislation to address barriers that girls around the world face in accessing education.In September, the Appropriations Committee unanimously cleared Shaheen's provisions to the State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs bill for fiscal year 2020 that invest significant resources in global family planning and reproductive health services. In March, Shaheen and Collins' bipartisan resolution recognizing International Women's Day 2019 unanimously passed the Senate. Read the bill text here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-holds-roundtable-and-site-visit-on-bipartisan-fix-to-repealing-tax-law-flaw-penalizing-nh-water-infrastructure-investments,Shaheen Holds Roundtable & Site Visit on Bipartisan Fix to Repealing Tax Law Flaw Penalizing NH Water Infrastructure Investments,2019-12-13,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Holds Roundtable & Site Visit on Bipartisan Fix to Repealing Tax Law Flaw Penalizing NH Water Infrastructure Investments December 13, 2019 (Atkinson, NH) Today in Atkinson, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) hosted a roundtable discussion at Atkinson Town Hall and toured the construction site of a new water infrastructure project impacted by an unfair provision in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 that has led to exorbitant taxes on infrastructure investments in towns across southern New Hampshire. Shaheen, joined by town and state officials, highlighted her new bipartisan bill that would fix the flaw in the tax law and provide relief to Granite State communities and companies facing inflated taxes under this provision in the tax code. Atkinson and communities across New Hampshire have been planning important water infrastructure projects for years that are now under threat. This flaw in the tax code risks discouraging urgently needed investments in our water system that provide access to clean drinking water. We can't let this tax compromise the safety of our water supplies, said Senator Shaheen. My legislation provides a bipartisan, commonsense fix to the unfair provision in the Republican tax bill that Majority Leader McConnell rushed through the Senate. This is an issue impacting communities across the country, particularly those in New Hampshire. I'll continue to urge all members of Congress to join me in this effort and deliver meaningful relief to communities that have been unfairly penalized by this tax. This bill will correct an unforeseen result of recent changes to federal tax laws, relieving utility ratepayers from having to pay an unfair tax burden, and that can also create unnecessary barriers for important infrastructure projects like the Southern NH Regional Water Project or providing for new water connections necessitated by contamination,"" said Bob Scott, Commissioner of the NH Department of Environmental Services. The 2017 tax bill made adjustments to the tax treatment of Contributions In Aid of Construction (CIAC). Previously, water and wastewater utilities were exempted from taxes for CIAC received; however, the TCJA reinstated CIAC tax liability on these entities, which will either have to be covered by state and local governments or passed along to the ratepayers and property taxpayers. These changes have already resulted in$1.15 million in new federal taxesfor water infrastructure projects in Southern New Hampshire and will serve in the future as a strong disincentive against investments in water infrastructure and community development. The U.S. tax code has long provided favorable tax treatment for CIAC, as well as for certain grants made by governmental or civic entities, to help companies and communities make investments in projects that benefit the public. Since 1996, the U.S. tax code has included a specific provision that excludes these contributions made to water and sewer utilities from their taxable income. Unfortunately, the TCJA eliminated this tax exemption. The TCJA also made an additional change that eliminated the tax-free treatment of capital contributions if made by governmental entities or civic groups. These changes could impact the Drinking Water and Groundwater Trust Fund in New Hampshire, as well as municipal governments that make investments in water or other infrastructure. Specifically, Shaheen and Murkowski's bill would reverse these two harmful changes to the U.S. tax code and revert these specific provisions to pre-TCJA status. Bill text of the legislation can be foundhere. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-secures-10-billion-of-opioid-funding-in-hr-3-the-lower-drug-costs,"Kuster Secures $10 Billion of Opioid Funding in H.R. 3, the Lower Drug Costs Now Act",2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. This week, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) successfully secured the inclusion of an amendment to invest $10 billion in funding toward the opioid epidemic over the next five years in H.R. 3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act, which the House will be voting on today. Rep. Kuster's amendment comes from her bipartisan legislation, the RESPOND Now Act, which she introduced in May with Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), who serves as co-chair alongside Kuster on the Bipartisan Opioid Task Force. We've made progress in our efforts to combat the opioid epidemic, but we still have a lot of work to do to curb this ongoing crisis, said Kuster. This amendment will help ensure states, cities, towns, and communities that are on the frontlines have the resources and support they need to help people who are struggling with or impacted by addiction, including more vulnerable populations like children. I'm thrilled these funds will be included in this critical legislation named after my late dear friend, Representative Elijah Cummings, and I look forward to voting in favor of this measure today. The Bipartisan Opioid Task Force has been a driver of Congressional action to take on the opioid epidemic. The Task Force successfully pushed for the inclusion of $1 billion in funding as part of the 21st Century Cures Act to address the opioid epidemic and helped pass 14 bills which were signed into law as part of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA). Several pieces of the Task Force'slegislative agenda for 2018have been signed into law including theVA Prescription Data Accountability Actand theINTERDICT Act; other provisions of the agenda were included in bipartisan comprehensive opioid legislation,the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act (H.R. 6), which was signed into law. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-historic-legislation-to-lower-the-price-of,Kuster Statement on Historic Legislation to Lower the Price of Prescription Drugs,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement on House passage of H.R. 3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act. Rep. Kuster, who is the co-chair of the Bipartisan Opioid Task Force, successfully secured the creation of an Opioid Epidemic Response Fund and the inclusion of $10 billion in funding in H.R. 3 to fight the opioid epidemic over the next five years. This legislation will help bring down the cost of prescription drugs and level the playing field for American patients by giving Medicare the power to negotiate directly with drug companies. No one should have to choose between the prescriptions they need and other essentials like food or rent. Today, we took a historic step to lower the price of prescription drugs and give Americans peace of mind in being able to afford their medications. I was proud to secure funding for the creation of an Opioid Epidemic Response Fund to provide those on the frontlines of the opioid crisis with the resources they need. I urge the Senate to swiftly bring this commonsense legislation to a vote so we can provide the American people with much-needed relief at the pharmacy counter. See Rep. Kuster speak in support of H.R. 3 on the floor here, or read below: Thank you, Mister Chair. I have long called for Congress to take meaningful action to lower prescription drug costs by allowing the direct negotiation of prescription drug prices by Medicare. I am proud to cosponsor H.R. 3, the Lower Drug Costs Now Act and I am pleased to see it includes my legislation, the Respond Now Act, as the basis for much-needed funding to combat the opioid epidemic. H.R. 3 provides $10 billion in direct funding, including investments directly into our communities who are on the frontlines of this epidemic. I am also grateful to see H.R.3 include funding to support children impacted by this crisis, so that they can access trauma-informed practices in schools. Thank you, Mister Speaker, for the inclusion of this critical funding to help Granite State families and communities across the country. I urge my colleagues to vote YES on this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-votes-lower-prescription-drug-prices-granite-staters-passage-hr3,Pappas Votes to Lower Prescription Drug Prices for Granite Staters with Passage of H.R.3,2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Click here to watch Rep. Pappas speak on the House floor in support of this legislation WASHINGTON, DC Today,Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01)voted to pass H.R.3, theElijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act, which will help lower the cost of prescription drugs for Granite Staters and people across the country and level the playing field for people dealing with the skyrocketing costs of their medications. This bill gives Medicare the power to negotiate directly with drug companies, and the lower prices negotiated by Medicare will be transparent so that private insurance companies can make the same prices available to their consumers. It also creates a new $2000 out-of-pocket limit on prescription drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries. Pappas's provision, theAdvancing Enrollment and Reducing Drug Costs Act of 2019, will expand low-income seniors' access to prescription drugs under the Medicare prescription drug benefit program, also known as Medicare Part D. This bill would automatically enroll this population so that they have access to the drugs that they need and supports some of our most vulnerable seniors. This will cut red tape and streamline bureaucracy while making it easier for low-income seniors to access lifesaving prescription drugs. When I travel around New Hampshire asking constituents what's on their minds, there's no topic more urgent or more personal than combating the skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs,said Congressman Pappas.I've heard from a senior who is unable to retire because his life is dependent on drugs that cost $3,000 a month out of pocket.I've heard from a mother who shares a painful chronic condition with her daughter, and has to decide every month whose prescription to fill because she can't fill both on her fixed income. Americans can no longer afford Big Pharma's runaway costs. It is time to deliver transformational change and pass H.R. 3 to ensure the health and well-being of the American people. I am proud to support this historic legislation to drive down costs while expanding and strengthening Medicare. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to take action and pass a bill we can send to President Trump's desk for his signature. America is counting on us. Congressman Pappas has held regulareventsandtown hallsin the First District since taking office specially dealing with the issue of prescription drug costs. While serving as a member of New Hampshire's Executive Council, Chris worked to develop and provided the key vote to implement the Medicaid expansion, which insured more than 53,000 Granite Staters. BACKGROUND: In NH-01, there are 94,270 people enrolled in a Medicare Part D plan and 514,858 people enrolled in private health insurance all of whom stand to benefit from H.R.3. For example, those living with cancer, arthritis, asthma, HIV/AIDS, and multiple sclerosis are expected to experience significant savings as a result of H.R.3: Patients living with breast cancer: In 2019, an estimated 1,330 women in New Hampshire will be diagnosed with breast cancer. H.R.3 can lower the average total cost of the breast cancer medication Ibrance by 65%. Patients living with leukemia: In 2019, an estimated 260 people in NH will be diagnosed with leukemia. H.R.3 can lower the average total cost of the leukemia medication Tasigna by 71% Patients living with prostate cancer: In 2019, an estimated 1,030 people in New Hampshire will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. H.R.3 can lower the average total cost of the prostate cancer medication Zytiga by 66%. Patients with arthritis: 23% of New Hampshire residents have arthritis, and H.R.3 can lower their total costs on most arthritis drugs from about $40,000 to $10,000 per year. Patients with asthma: About 142,205 residents of New Hampshire live with asthma, and H.R.3 can lower their total costs on most asthma drugs from about $1,400 to $270 per year. Patients with HIV/AIDS : In 2015, 34 New Hampshire residents were diagnosed with HIV, and H.R.3 can lower their total costs on most HIV drugs from about $15,000 to $6,000 per year. Patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS): One million people are living with MS in the United States, and H.R.3 can lower their total costs on most MS drugs from about $40,000 to $13,000 per year. In addition to lowering prescription drug prices, H.R.3 also reinvests savings into expanding Medicare coverage for dental, vision, and hearing services for constituents in NH-01: About 99% of beneficiaries or 142,000 people stand to gain from adding a dental benefit. About 93% of beneficiaries or 132,700 people stand to gain from adding a vision benefit. About 95% of beneficiaries or 135,900 people stand to gain from adding a hearing benefit.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/following-house-vote-shaheen-calls-on-leader-mcconnell-to-end-the-foot-dragging-on-addressing-prescription-drug-costs-and-allow-senate-to-vote,"Following House Vote, Shaheen Calls on Leader McConnell to End the Foot Dragging on Addressing Prescription Drug Costs and Allow Senate to Vote",2019-12-12,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Following House Vote, Shaheen Calls on Leader McConnell to End the Foot Dragging on Addressing Prescription Drug Costs and Allow Senate to Vote December 12, 2019 **This sweeping legislation also authorizes $10 billion in funding to address the opioid epidemic** (Washington, DC)U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed broad legislation to address prescription drug costs: The dramatic rise in prescription drug costs is a full blown crisis and it's long past time for the Senate to act, said Shaheen. As Americans have painfully learned, the greed of Big Pharma knows no limits which is why it's necessary for Congress to make sure that the public can afford the prescriptions they need to remain healthy and active. In New Hampshire and all across the country, patients are dangerously rationing their medications and having to choose between prescriptions and other needs like buying groceries and paying utility bills. The legislation the House has passed takes common sense steps to reduce costs for patients, including allowing Medicare to negotiate lower prices for prescriptions, including for insulin, just as the VA does, and establishes a new cap on seniors' out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs. It also provides much needed funding to help address the substance use disorder epidemic that is killing hundreds of Granite Staters every year. The foot dragging to address prescription drug costs has gone on long enough Mitch McConnell must commit to bringing this bill up for a vote. Senator Shaheen is leading efforts in the Senate to reduce the cost of prescription drugs. She is spearheading a bipartisan effort to roll back over a decade of insulin price hikes through her Insulin Price Reduction Act. Senator Shaheen has also advocated for legislation that would allow for Medicare to negotiate drug prices on behalf of seniors, and continues to support bipartisan efforts to help reduce the costs of prescription drugs by allowing individuals to safely import FDA-approved prescription drugs from Canada. She introduced theBiologic Transparency Act of 2019,bipartisan legislation to encourage competition in the prescription drug marketplace and put an end to the harmful patent strategies that block new drugs from coming to market. She also introduced theEnd Taxpayer Subsidies for Drugs Ads Act of 2019to eliminate tax deductions that pharmaceutical companies use to pay for drug advertising, which ultimately increases consumer demand and gives companies leverage to increase their drug prices. Shaheen's bill would ensure taxpayer dollars are not used to subsidize drug advertisements. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-helps-introduce-bicameral-bipartisan-bill-to-fight-back-against,"Kuster Helps Introduce Bicameral, Bipartisan Bill to Fight Back Against Growing Online Child Exploitation Crisis",2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON A bicameral, bipartisan group of lawmakers are taking action this week following a disturbing New York Times investigative report on the growing prevalence of online child exploitation in communities across the nation. U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (D-NH), Anthony Gonzalez (R-OH), Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) and Lucy McBath (D-GA), with U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) introduced the Eliminate Network Distribution of Child Exploitation Act, or END Child Exploitation Act, to extend the period of time that technology companies are required to preserve information about child sexual abuse images they report to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). This legislative move would address an important policy flaw highlighted in the September New York Times report. Nothing is more important than the safety of our children, said Rep. Kuster. I am proud to help introduce this common sense, bipartisan legislation that will help law enforcement and technology companies respond to child sexual abuse images and protect our children. It is the unfortunate truth that this crisis is local for every single Congressional district and state across the country, said Rep. Gonzalez. The number one concern I hear from law enforcement and non-profits, nationally and in Northeast Ohio, is that there are insufficient resources to adequately address the growing problem. This bill gives our law enforcement more time to work with data being gathered by technology companies to better protect our children and keep our communities safe. Crimes that once occurred solely in the physical space are now dominating the virtual world. Technology companies that are a hub for youth social interactions should recognize the need to assist law enforcement in their information gathering efforts, said Sen. Blackburn. The END Child Exploitation Act brings anti-trafficking efforts into the 21st century so that perpetrators may be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. I've spent my career, both as Attorney General of Nevada and as a United States Senator, working to protect vulnerable children from exploitation and trafficking, said Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto. That's why I'm proud to join Senator Blackburn in introducing this legislation, which will preserve crucial evidence in cases of online child exploitation for longer, giving law enforcement more time to go after criminals. We need to make sure that we're doing everything we can to prosecute predators and keep them from threatening our children. I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing the bipartisan END Child Exploitation Act so we can better protect children from sexual abuse, said Rep. Reschenthaler. In 2018, online content of children being sexually abused more than doubled from the previous year. Given this deeply troubling increase, it is critical we give law enforcement more time to identify and hold perpetrators of these heinous crimes accountable. I look forward to working with my colleagues to get this bill across the finish line so we can end the online sexual exploitation of our nation's children. It's our duty as lawmakers to do all we can to protect our children and give parents and families peace of mind. The report released earlier this year showed troubling evidence that we are not doing enough to protect them from risks online, said Rep. McBath. I'm glad to join my colleagues in the House and Senate on this bill and make more resources available to law enforcement to stop abuse and exploitation, hold perpetrators accountable, and protect families in Georgia and across the country. The New York Times investigative report released in September 2019 found technology companies have reported 45 million images and videos depicting abuse over the past year. Currently, these companies are required to retain information on these images for 90 days after reporting the material to NCMEC, however, this time is often not enough for habitually under-resourced law enforcement to conduct the necessary investigative process. The END Child Exploitation Act doubles this time frame to 180 days and ensures these companies are legally able to retain the material longer if needed to prevent the proliferation or spread of child exploitation material. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-house-passage-of-national-defense-authorization-act,Kuster Statement on House Passage of National Defense Authorization Act for FY2020,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement on the House passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes key provisions led and advocated for by Kuster. The legislation also includes a 3.1% pay increase for our nation's servicemembers, the largest in a decade. From securing the largest pay raise for our servicemembers in a decade, providing support for survivors of partner and domestic violence, to implementing 12 weeks of paid parental leave for all civilian federal employees, I am glad to see this critical legislation pass the House, said Kuster. I am excited to see a number of provisions I led and cosponsored included in the final legislation as part of our nation's defense priorities. Provisions advocated for by Kuster in the final legislation that was passed by the House include: Paid parental leave Implement 12 weeks of paid parental leave to all civilian federal employees. Repeal of the Widows Tax Repeal the Widows Tax to allow families of fallen servicemembers to continue receiving vital benefits. This provision repeals the dollar for dollar offset surviving military spouses get for the Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Program (DIC) & the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP). Eliminate wasteful DOD spending Department of Defense-wide best practices to improve the collection of real property information to cut down on wasteful spending. Protect and support survivors of intimate partner and domestic violence Registration of all civilian protection orders on military installations to keep servicemembers and their families safe from intimate partner and domestic violence. Trauma informed training and consolation with trauma experts for Discharge Review Boards and Boards for the Correction of Military Records to ensure victims of domestic and intimate partner violence are not unfairly denied veterans benefits because of discharges related to sexual violence they experienced while serving. Protection from Carbon Monoxide poisoning Require DOD to install carbon monoxide alarms in all military housing to protect servicemembers and their families. Empower servicemembers to fight medical malpractice Create a pathway for servicemembers to file claims for themselves or a family member in the case of medical malpractice. Gender integration in Marine Corps boot camps Establish a timeline and require the Marine Corps to gender integrate basic training programs at Parris Island and San Diego Recruit Depots. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/nh-delegation-announces-more-than-575k-in-federal-funding-for-renewable,NH Delegation Announces More Than $575K in Federal Funding for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Projects in Rural NH,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, announced today with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) that rural communities throughout the state will receive $577,276 in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Office of Rural Development in support of renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. The funding will be awarded through the Rural Energy for American Program (REAP) to the small businesses and farms listed below: Port City Air, Inc. Portsmouth, NH $171,633 Sponge-Jet, Inc. Newington, NH $99,820 Froling LLC Keene, NH $82,903 Holt Brothers Orchard Partnership Lyndeborough, NH $49,999 McKenzie's Farm Milton, NH $49,188 NE Solar Charlestown, NH $39,846 DCDawson, Inc. Laconia, NH $28,577 Meridan Hill Maple Farm, LLC Colombia, NH $27,700 Solis, Inc., LLC Berlin, NH $27,610 REAP helps farmers and small business owners in rural communities improve their energy efficiency or purchase renewable energy systems. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen advocated for funding for USDA energy programs to committee leadership and voted in support of the bipartisan spending bill that passed the Senate earlier this year, which would significantly boost the program's funding level from $334.5 million in FY2019 to $706 million for FY2020. This federal funding will help our farmers and small business owners from Keene to Berlin to the Seacoast make important investments to reduce energy use and costs, underscoring the importance of federal programs like REAP, said Senator Shaheen. Promoting renewable energy sources and energy efficiency are key to building a cleaner, more affordable energy future for communities throughout New Hampshire and across the country. Supporting programs such as REAP that boost these efforts will continue to be a priority for me in the Senate. Small businesses and farms are part of the lifeblood of communities across New Hampshire, and by helping them reduce their energy costs, these grants will help them thrive, said Senator Hassan. In the Senate, I've prioritized working across the aisle to strengthen renewable energy, and I will continue to fight for programs like these that spur our economy and move us towards a clean energy economy. Utilizing renewable energy is a win-win for our environment, our economy, and the health of Granite Staters, and it's key to combating climate change, said Congresswoman Kuster. I'm pleased to announce these grants, which are an investment in our collective future. I'll continue working to ensure all Granite State communities have the support and resources they need to make critical energy efficiency improvements to infrastructure. Energy costs pose a tremendous burden to businesses across our state, and we must support projects and initiatives that will help ease it,said Congressman Chris Pappas. These federal funds will facilitate renewable energy and efficiency projects that will allow businesses to save money and reduce their carbon footprint. This is a win for our economy and environment, and I'm pleased REAP is able to assist so many farms and businesses with these grants. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pappas-issues-statement-usmca,Congressman Pappas Issues Statement on USMCA,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC -Congressman Chris Pappas issued the following statement after the announcement of a new, bipartisan U.S., Mexico, Canada Trade Agreement: Trade with Canada and Mexico is critical to the success of New Hampshire's economy, and I am pleased that after months of negotiations the U.S. Trade Representative and Congressional leaders have reached an agreement that will support our workers and continue to move our country forward,said Congressman Pappas. The revised USMCA fundamentally strengthens labor enforcement and will allow us to improve access to lower-cost prescription drugs for Americans. This agreement provides our businesses with the certainty and predictability they need, and I am pleased the measure will now come to Congress for a vote. Earlier this year Congressman Pappas sent several letters in addition to meeting with Ambassador Robert Lighthizer and his team urging them to resolve significant concerns about the agreement as written in relation to the exclusivity for biologic drugs as well as environmental and labor provisions.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pappas-statement-ndaa-conference-committee-report,CONGRESSMAN PAPPAS STATEMENT ON NDAA CONFERENCE COMMITTEE REPORT,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01)released the following statement after reviewing the final National Defense Authorization Act of 2019 Conference Committee Report: First District voters sent me to Congress to help change how Washington works and get things done,said Congressman Chris Pappas.PFAScontamination is a real threat to families in my district, and I'm disappointed certain provisions to protect public health and our environment were abandoned by negotiators of both parties. We need action now, and I will continue to work with colleagues to pass legislation that will bring about a stronger federal response. I worked alongside my colleagues for months to help craft an NDAA that supplies much-needed funding to our military, keeps our country safe, and corrects a long-standing inequity for our federal workers at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. I am also proud that severalPFAS-related provisions did make it into the final legislation, but Congress should have seized the opportunity to go much further in protecting families and communities from these forever chemicals.' Ultimately I willvote to approve the 2019 Defense Authorization Actso that our military receives the support it needs, and I will not stop in pursuing stronger action on PFAScontamination. BACKGROUND: In September 2019, Congressman Chris Pappas was appointed by his colleagues to serve as a Conferee to help negotiate the FY20 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The Conference Committee, made up of a select group of House and Senate members, was charged with merging the House and Senate versions of the bill into a final version. The Houses-passed National Defense Authorization Act includedseveral provisions Congressman Pappas introduced and cosponsored to protect the health of our servicemembersand the communities that support them by holding polluters of toxicPFASchemicals accountable,creating a clearinghouse of information, and banning the DOD's use ofPFASby2024. Additionally, the final authorization includeslanguage that Congressman Pappas championedto correct a long-standing inequity for our federal workers at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, and other shipyards, who were left without the promotion and pay there were promised due to the suspension of a longstanding program. The NDAA includes provisions that would: Create an online clearinghouse for PFAS information Phase out military use of PFAS in firefighting foam by 2024. End the use of PFAS firefighting foams in training exercises, and allow blood tests for fire fighters exposed to PFAS Require development of interagency federal research strategy to deal with emerging containments Require EPA to finalize significant new use rule to require notifications before industry plans to begin new manufacturing processes using this family of PFAS Requires EPA to add PFOS and PFOA to Toxic Substances Control Act, which requires industry to report amounts they are releasing into the environment. Allows National Guard to access Defense Environmental Remediation Account funds, for five years to address PFOS and PFOA exposure and contamination.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/final-ndaa-2020-includes-shaheen-cruz-bill-to-stop-russias-nord-stream-2-pipeline,"Final NDAA 2020 Includes Shaheen, Cruz Bill to Stop Russia’s Nord Stream 2 Pipeline",2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Final NDAA 2020 Includes Shaheen, Cruz Bill to Stop Russia's Nord Stream 2 Pipeline December 11, 2019 (Washington,DC) Tonight, the Senate and House Armed Services Committees released the conference report for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2020, which includes U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Ted Cruz's (R-TX)bipartisan billimposing devastating, targeted sanctions on those involved in installing Russia's Nord Stream 2. If completed, this natural gas pipeline wouldvastly strengthen President Vladimir Putin at the expense of the rest of the free world. The House and Senate are expected to vote on the NDAA later this month. This provision sends an unmistakable, bipartisan message from Congress to Vladimir Putin that the United States will not sit idly by while the Kremlin seeks to further spread its malign influence, said Senator Shaheen. The Nord Stream 2 project threatens Ukraine, Europe's energy independence and gives Russia an opening to exploit our allies. I appreciate Senator Cruz's partnership in advancing legislation that will impose highly-targeted sanctions on the pipe-laying ships involved in Russia's Nord Stream 2 project. I urge Congress to pass this legislation as soon as possible and reaffirm the importance of our European alliances. Including my legislation with Sen. Shaheen in the NDAA highlights the bipartisan, bicameral consensus in Congress and throughout the government that the U.S. must stop Russia's Nord Stream 2, said Senator Cruz. In the coming days, Congress will pass and the president will sign into law targeted sanctions that will do exactly that, specifically penalizing the companies involved in installing the pipeline. In doing so, we will have protected Europe's energy security and prevented Putin from leveraging billions of dollars that could be used to fuel Russian aggression. I appreciate Sen. Shaheen's leadership on this issue, and I will be working with my fellow lawmakers, and with Secretaries Pompeo and Mnuchin, to make sure these sanctions are fully implemented and any violators are tracked and duly designated. TheProtecting Europe's Energy Security Act of 2019(S. 1441) is cosponsored by Sens. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), and Cory Gardner (R-Colo.). The bill passed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in November with anoverwhelming majority, and would impose devastating, targeted sanctions on vessels that Russian President Vladimir Putin needs to complete the pipeline. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/house-passes-national-defense-bill-with-key-shaheen-authored-provisions_president-says-he-will-sign-into-law-quickly,House Passes National Defense Bill with Key Shaheen-Authored Provisions – President Says He Will Sign Into Law Quickly,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"House Passes National Defense Bill with Key Shaheen-Authored Provisions President Says He Will Sign Into Law Quickly December 11, 2019 **Defense bill includes ban on PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam, continued funding for health impact study and Shaheen's bipartisan legislation to expedite analysis of water contaminants including PFAS** **Bill provides a pay raise to service members, eliminates the Widow's Tax and Shaheen's bipartisan legislation to provide support to military spouses** **Bill prioritizes role of Pease and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard** **Bill includes Shaheen'slegislation to crack down on fentanyl coming from China & Mexico** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee which authors the annual defense bill, issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the fiscal year (FY) 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), annual defense legislation that authorizes national defense programs and priorities for the year. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Shaheen helps write the defense bill every year and successfully included a number of her provisions in this year's bill that prioritizes New Hampshire and a strong national defense. I worked across the aisle to help write a defense bill that prioritizes New Hampshire, our service members, their families and a strong national defense, said Shaheen. I'm very pleased that members on both sides of the aisle agreed and that this bill is moving swiftly through Congress. Now that the House has approved this step, I urge an expeditious vote in the Senate so that we can send this bill to the President who has stated that he will quickly sign this legislation into law. Regarding the PFAS provisions in the legislation, Shaheen added: This bill ensures the health impact study at Pease will continue to move forward and addresses occupational exposure, which impacts our firefighters and military members at a higher rate. For years, New Hampshire residents have rightly fought for more information, and greater transparency and accountability, in response to their exposure to PFAS chemicals in drinking water. I also fought to include a phase out of the use of PFAS firefighting foam and a transition to a PFAS-free alternative. I look forward to seeing these important provisions becoming law and will continue to fight for additional steps that need to be taken that weren't included in this bill. Read more about Senator Shaheen's priorities that were included in the FY 2020 NDAA: Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/nh-delegation-announces-more-than-575k-in-federal-funding-for-renewable-energy-and-energy-efficiency-projects-in-rural-nh,NH Delegation Announces More Than $575K in Federal Funding for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Projects in Rural NH,2019-12-11,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"NH Delegation Announces More Than $575K in Federal Funding for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Projects in Rural NH December 11, 2019 (Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, announced today with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) that rural communities throughout the state will receive $577,276 in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Office of Rural Development in support of renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. The funding will be awarded through the Rural Energy for American Program (REAP) to the small businesses and farms listed below: Port City Air, Inc. Portsmouth, NH $171,633 Sponge-Jet, Inc. Newington, NH $99,820 Froling LLC Keene, NH $82,903 Holt Brothers Orchard Partnership Lyndeborough, NH $49,999 McKenzie's Farm Milton, NH $49,188 NE Solar Charlestown, NH $39,846 DCDawson, Inc. Laconia, NH $28,577 Meridan Hill Maple Farm, LLC Colombia, NH $27,700 Solis, Inc., LLC Berlin, NH $27,610 REAP helps farmers and small business owners in rural communities improve their energy efficiency or purchase renewable energy systems. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen advocated for funding for USDA energy programs to committee leadership and voted in support of the bipartisan spending bill that passed the Senate earlier this year, which would significantly boost the program's funding level from $334.5 million in FY2019 to $706 million for FY2020. This federal funding will help our farmers and small business owners from Keene to Berlin to the Seacoast make important investments to reduce energy use and costs, underscoring the importance of federal programs like REAP, said Senator Shaheen. Promoting renewable energy sources and energy efficiency are key to building a cleaner, more affordable energy future for communities throughout New Hampshire and across the country. Supporting programs such as REAP that boost these efforts will continue to be a priority for me in the Senate. Small businesses and farms are part of the lifeblood of communities across New Hampshire, and by helping them reduce their energy costs, these grants will help them thrive, said Senator Hassan. In the Senate, I've prioritized working across the aisle to strengthen renewable energy, and I will continue to fight for programs like these that spur our economy and move us towards a clean energy economy. Utilizing renewable energy is a win-win for our environment, our economy, and the health of Granite Staters, and it's key to combating climate change, said Congresswoman Kuster. I'm pleased to announce these grants, which are an investment in our collective future. I'll continue working to ensure all Granite State communities have the support and resources they need to make critical energy efficiency improvements to infrastructure. Energy costs pose a tremendous burden to businesses across our state, and we must support projects and initiatives that will help ease it,said Congressman Chris Pappas. These federal funds will facilitate renewable energy and efficiency projects that will allow businesses to save money and reduce their carbon footprint. This is a win for our economy and environment, and I'm pleased REAP is able to assist so many farms and businesses with these grants. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-secures-key-provisions-in-national-defense-authorization-act-for,Kuster Secures Key Provisions in National Defense Authorization Act for FY2020,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. This week, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) applauded the advancement of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included several key provisions led and advocated for by Kuster. The legislation also includes a 3.1% pay increase for our nation's servicemembers, the largest in a decade. From securing the largest pay raise for our servicemembers in a decade, providing support for survivors of partner and domestic violence, to implementing 12 weeks of paid parental leave for all civilian federal employees - I am glad to see this vital legislation move forward, said Kuster. I am excited to see a number of provisions I led and cosponsored included in the final piece of legislation as part of our nation's defense priorities. Provisions advocated for by Kuster in the final legislation include: Paid parental leave Implement 12 weeks of paid parental leave to all civilian federal employees. Repeal of the Widows Tax Repeal the Widows Tax to allow families of fallen servicemembers to continue receiving vital benefits. This provision repeals the dollar for dollar offset surviving military spouses get for the Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Program (DIC) & the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP). Eliminate wasteful DOD spending Department of Defense-wide best practices to improve the collection of real property information to cut down on wasteful spending. Protect and support survivors of intimate partner and domestic violence Registration of all civilian protection orders on military instillations to keep service members and their families safe from intimate partner and domestic violence. Trauma informed training and consolation with trauma experts for Discharge Review Boards and Boards for the Correction of Military Records to ensure victims of domestic and intimate partner violence are not unfairly denied veterans benefits because of discharges related to sexual violence they experienced while serving. Protection from Carbon Monoxide poisoning Require DOD to install carbon monoxide alarms in all military housing to protect servicemembers and their families. Prohibit unauthorized use of military force Prohibit the unauthorized use of military force against Iran to prevent President Trump from dragging the United States into an unnecessary war. Empower service members to fight medical malpractice Create a pathway for service members to file claims for themselves or a family member in the case of medical malpractice. Gender integration in Marine Corps boot camps Establish a timeline and require the Marine Corps to gender integrate basic training programs at Parris Island and San Diego Recruit Depots. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-us-mexico-canada-agreement,Kuster Statement on U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"I am pleased that a tentative agreement on USMCA has been reached between House Democrats and the White House. Trade supports nearly 20,000 jobs in New Hampshire, and I have supported strengthening and modernizing our trade agreements to reflect our advanced 21st Century economy. The agreement that was presented to Congress needed to be improved to ensure USMCA is fully enforceable, protects workers and our environment and preserves Congress's ability to lower prescription drug costs. I am pleased to hear these improvements are reflected in the agreement. I look forward to reviewing the full contents of the agreement and working in a bipartisan manner to advance USMCA through the House. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kuster-statement-on-articles-of-impeachment,Rep. Kuster Statement on Articles of Impeachment,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Watch Rep. Kuster's statement HERE. (Washington, DC) - Read Congresswoman Kuster's statement below: What a week in Congress! Here's an update from the House: This week, we are voting to pass historic legislation to lower the cost of prescription drugs, including my bill to fund 7.5 billion dollars to tackle the opioid epidemic by increasing access to treatment. Today, we announced a path forward with a bipartisan deal on the U.S. Mexico, Canada Trade Agreement; and we will be voting soon to fund the government and approve the National Defense Authorization Act, which gives our troops a much-needed pay raise, and provides 12 weeks of paid parental leave for all federal employees. And in addition, earlier today, the House Judiciary Committee took the formal step of announcing articles of impeachment. After detailed hearings in the House Intelligence and Judiciary Committees, the facts are clear and uncontested: President Trump has abused the power of the Presidency for his own personal gain, at the expense of our national security and the integrity of the 2020 election. President Trump continues to solicit foreign interference in our upcoming election, which is a direct threat to our democracy and the sanctity of every American's vote. I believe the President has violated his oath of office, and his actions represent a clear and present danger that he will continue to abuse his power for his own political gain. If there is information that clears President Trump of wrongdoing, he should provide it to Congress and the American people. Instead, he continues to block witnesses from testifying and stonewall the investigation in order to cover up his misconduct. Unfortunately, President Trump has left us no choice. As Members of Congress, we took an oath to protect our Constitution, and we must ensure that no one is above the law, not even the President of the United States. Watch Rep. Kuster's statement here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/as-un-convention-on-climate-change-in-europe-is-underway-shaheen-leads-group-of-senators-in-letter-to-trump-urging-reconsideration-of-paris-climate-accord-withdrawal,"As UN Convention on Climate Change in Europe is Underway, Shaheen Leads Group of Senators in Letter to Trump Urging Reconsideration of Paris Climate Accord Withdrawal",2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"As UN Convention on Climate Change in Europe is Underway, Shaheen Leads Group of Senators in Letter to Trump Urging Reconsideration of Paris Climate Accord Withdrawal December 10, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) led a group of 26 Senators in a letter to President Donald Trump, urging him to reconsider his decision to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement. In their letter, the Senators sound the alarm on the crisis of climate change and the damage that will be inflicted on Americans for future generations unless immediate action is taken. The Senators warned the President against ceding U.S. leadership on this issue, and admonished him for failing to honor his commitment to work with Democrats to renegotiate the Paris Climate Accord or to craft a new deal. The letter comes as the 25th United Nations Climate Change conference takes place in Madrid this week. The Senators wrote, As the second largest global emitter of greenhouse gases, and the largest historical emitter, it is imperative that the United States assume our rightful place as a global leader in the fight to combat climate change, yet with this action you are ceding American leadership to other nations at great political and economic costs. The letter also emphasized the national security implications related to the President's withdrawal, underscoring the damage done to the United States' reputation by reneging on an international commitment. The Senators' letter further illustrates the outcry from Americans across various sectors, including the business community, citing more than 2,200 U.S. businesses including major companies such as Google. The Senators conclude their letter by reminding the President of the overwhelming number of Americans who believe the United States should participate in the Paris Climate Agreement three out of every four registered voters or 77 percent. The letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chris Coons (D-DE), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tom Udall (D-NM), Angus King (I-ME), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Bob Casey (D-PA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV). The letter can be read in full here. Senator Shaheen has led efforts in the Senate to combat climate change. Shaheenintroduced bipartisan legislation theInternational Climate Change Accountability Act- that would prevent the President from using funds to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accord. As a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Shaheentraveled to Paris to participatein high-level discussions at the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference that led to the international Paris Climate Accord. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen has historically helped secure increased funding for several energy efficiency and renewable energyprogramsat the Department of Energy. Shaheen has alsoconsistently spoken outin opposition to the President's anti-environment agenda, and hasfought his continued effortsto invalidate scientific evidence of climate change. This week, Shaheen also led a bipartisan group of Senators in a letter to Executive Secretary Patricia Espinosa at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, in support of the 25th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 25) and their commitment to global efforts to thwart climate change. That letter can be read here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-cassidy-jones-moran-introduce-bill-to-allow-health-savings-accounts-to-be-spent-on-direct-primary-care,"Shaheen, Cassidy, Jones, Moran Introduce Bill to Allow Health Savings Accounts to Be Spent on Direct Primary Care",2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Cassidy, Jones, Moran Introduce Bill to Allow Health Savings Accounts to Be Spent on Direct Primary Care December 10, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Doug Jones (D-AL) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) today introduced bipartisan legislation to lower the cost of health care and expand patients' access to their primary care providers. The Direct Primary Care (DPC) model encourages patients to develop personal relationships with their primary care physician, including extending access to care beyond office visits and business hours and through telemedicine. It focuses on prevention and primary care, relying less on specialist and hospital referrals. It is a growing model used by more than 1,000 practices across 48 states and the District of Columbia. DPC models replace copays and deductibles with flat, affordable monthly fees. Current law makes DPC incompatible with health savings accounts (HSAs) paired with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs). The Senators' bill, the Primary Care Enhancement Act, clarifies federal law to provide that individuals who are enrolled in a DPC will retain eligibility to make HSA contributions. The bill also clarifies that pre-tax HSA funds may be used to pay DPC fees. Congress needs to work across the aisle to expand access to affordable, quality health care. This bill is a reflection of that effort and demonstrates the common ground we share and the progress we can make by working together,said Senator Shaheen. The Primary Care Enhancement Act expands access to high quality primary care by allowing individuals to enroll in Direct Primary Care Arrangements in addition to comprehensive health plans, without having to forfeit eligibility for making Health Savings Account contributions. This is common sense, bipartisan legislation to improve health care and I urge Leader McConnell to hold a vote on this bill as soon as possible. Senator Shaheen has led efforts in the Senate to stabilize the health insurance markets and make health care affordable and accessible for all Americans. She introducedtheMarketing and Outreach Restoration to Empower (MORE) Health Education Act of 2019with Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Gary Peters (D-MI) to counteract Trump administration sabotage efforts that have slashed funding for health care enrollment advertising and marketing by 90 percent since the President took office. She also introduced theProtecting Americans with Pre-existing Conditions Actwith Senators Mark Warner (D-VA), Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) to prevent the Trump administration from using federal premium tax credits topromote and incentivize enrollment in junk plans that do not provide coverage of pre-existing conditions or essential health benefits.In October, Shaheen, Baldwin and Warner calledon the Trump administration to do more to prevent third-party web brokers from steering individuals toward these junk health insurance plans. And earlier this year, Shaheen unveiled ahealth care affordability packagethat includes three pieces of legislation to reduce health care costs for patients and expand access to critical medical services. Together,theMarketplace Certainty Act,Improving Health Insurance Affordability ActandReducing Costs for Out-of-Network Services Actwould make essential reforms to the health care law that would help stabilize the marketplace, lower premiums for middle-class families and combat escalating out-of-pocket health care costs. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-leads-bipartisan-group-of-senators-on-letter-to-un-convention-in-support-of-global-efforts-to-combat-climate-change,Shaheen Leads Bipartisan Group of Senators on Letter to UN Convention in Support of Global Efforts to Combat Climate Change,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Leads Bipartisan Group of Senators on Letter to UN Convention in Support of Global Efforts to Combat Climate Change December 10, 2019 **Letter Comes Same Day as Shaheen Calls on Trump to Reconsider Withdrawal from Paris Climate Agreement** **Senators: In a moment where the commitment of the United States to address climate change seems threadbare, we, the undersigned, assure you that we are working diligently to respond to this global threat and we support your efforts in Madrid.** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) led a bipartisan group of Senators in a letter to Patricia Espinosa, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), in support of its global efforts to thwart climate change. The 25th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 25) is underway in Madrid to convene a meeting on the historic Paris Climate Agreement. Shaheen also led a group of Senators in calling on President Trump to once again reconsider his decision to withdraw the United States from the historic accord. The Senators wrote, Failing to address the worsening crisis of climate change will wreak damages on all Americans for centuries into the future. Now more than ever, the American people are demanding action on climate change from our federal government and our international partners. In their letter, the Senators urged the UNFCCC and all international participants in the convention to explore all solutions and paths forward to combat the effects of climate change. In closing, the Senators reiterated that though the administration is not prioritizing this existential crisis, there is bipartisan support in Congress to take action. The Senators concluded, In a moment where the commitment of the United States to address climate change seems threadbare, we, the undersigned, assure you that we are working diligently to respond to this global threat and we support your efforts in Madrid."" The letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Susan Collins (R-ME), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chris Coons (D-DE), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tom Udall (D-NM), Angus King (I-ME), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Bob Casey (D-PA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Joe Manchin (D-WV). Senator Shaheen has led efforts in the Senate to combat climate change. Shaheenintroduced bipartisan legislation theInternational Climate Change Accountability Act- that would prevent the President from using funds to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accord. As a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Shaheentraveled to Paris to participatein high-level discussions at the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference that led to the international Paris Climate Accord. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen has historically helped secure increased funding for several energy efficiency and renewable energyprogramsat the Department of Energy. Shaheen has alsoconsistently spoken outin opposition to the President's anti-environment agenda, and hasfought his continued effortsto invalidate scientific evidence of climate change. The letter can be read in full here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-statement-on-bipartisan-usmca-trade-agreement-reached,Shaheen Statement on Bipartisan USMCA Trade Agreement Reached,2019-12-10,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Statement on Bipartisan USMCA Trade Agreement Reached December 10, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement on the agreement between Democratic leadership in the House of Representatives and the Trump administration to move forward on consideration of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA): Trade plays a critical role in our New Hampshire economy, supporting job creation, expanding markets and creating growth for our small businesses. I am pleased to hear bipartisan progress is being made on negotiations between the United States, Mexico and Canada. Since I was Governor and led the first New Hampshire trade delegation outside of North America, I have long been supportive of trade agreements that increase opportunities and growth for Granite State businesses while also supporting the American worker and protecting our environment. I look forward to seeing the details of today's agreement. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-olson-moore-mcmorris-rodgers-speier-lead-bipartisan-letter-urging,"Kuster, Olson, Moore, McMorris Rodgers, Speier Lead Bipartisan Letter Urging Funding that Addresses and Prevents Sexual Violence",2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. On Friday, Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02), Pete Olson (TX-22), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), and Jackie Speier (CA-14) led a bipartisan group of 58 Members of Congress in sending a letter to House conferees negotiating government spending levels for Fiscal Year 2020. The letter calls for robust funding of the programs operating under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), Family Violence Prevention Services Act (FVPSA), and Victims of Crime Act (VOCA). These programs are the pillars of federal efforts to prevent sexual and domestic violence, educate youth about abuse and violent behavior, and provide resources as survivors seek safety and begin to rebuild their lives. The letter specifically asks House Appropriators to: 1.) Fund FVPSA, the first and only dedicated funding source for domestic violence services, at the House-set level of $175 million, an increase of more than $10 million from Fiscal Year 2019. The Senate has not yet set a funding level for FVPSA. 2.) Fund VAWA, groundbreaking legislation that supports survivors -- including marginalized communities and those who live in rural, remote areas, at $590.5 million. This figure is over $90 million higher than what the Senate has proposed. 3.) Set the cap for VOCA, which directly serves victims of many types of crime at no cost to taxpayers, at an average of the last three years' deposits into the Crime Victims Fund. This fund is sourced by federal seizures of collateral profits made as the result of crime, fines paid by criminals, forfeited bonds, and other such sources. Providing early response, support services, and prevention programs to reduce domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking helps to reduce these costs and save large amounts of public dollars, wrote the members. Otherwise, funding will be spent responding to these crimes through law enforcement, health care, and homeless services, among other services. All three of these programs are essential and need to be funded at the House-passed funding levels. As the largest network of domestic and sexual violence service providers proudly serving over 2.5 million women per year, YWCA understands the importance of maintaining robust funding to address and prevent sexual violence, particularly through VAWA, FVPSA, and VOCA, said Alejandra Y. Castillo, CEO, YWCA USA. At this critical juncture, we must work together to take steps to prevent sexual and domestic violence, educate youth about abuse and violent behavior, and provide resources for survivors and their families to ensure safety and rebuild their lives. The members reiterate their continued determination to prevent such horrific acts of violence, and support those who have already been affected. Representatives Kuster and Speier are founders and co-chairs of the Bipartisan Task Force to End Sexual Violence, of which Representative McMorris Rodgers is also a member. The Task Force works to raise awareness and propose solutions to the challenges posed by sexual violence, and areas of its focus include: K-12 education, campus sexual violence, the rape kit backlog, military sexual trauma, improved data and collection, online harassment, and law enforcement training. Representative Olson co-chairs the Congressional Victims' Rights Caucus, a bipartisan caucus that represents the interests of victims of crime, generates awareness about violent and sexual crime in our country and works to increase resources available to law enforcement to combat the problem. Representative Moore is a founder and co-chair of the Bipartisan Working Group to End Domestic Violence, a caucus bringing together members of Congress and key stakeholders dedicated to ending domestic violence, creating innovative prevention strategies, and strengthening resources for survivors and their children. In addition to these members, the letter was signed by: Colin Z. Allred (TX-32), Donald S. Beyer Jr. (VA-08), Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE-AL), Mike Bost (IL-12), Susan W. Brooks (IN-05), Anthony G. Brown (MD-04), Tony Crdenas (CA-29), Andr Carson (IN-07), Judy Chu (CA-27), Wm. Lacy Clay (MO-01) Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Rodney Davis (IL-13), Peter A. DeFazio (OR-04), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Bill Foster (IL-11), Ruben Gallego (AZ-07), Anthony Gonzalez (OH-16), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Deb A. Haaland (NM-01), John Katko (NY-24), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Daniel T. Kildee (MI-05), Adam Kinzinger (IL-16), Darin LaHood (IL-18), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Al Lawson, Jr. (FL-05), Susie Lee (NV-03), Ted W. Lieu (CA-33), Daniel W. Lipinski (IL-03), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Michael T. McCaul (TX-10), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Tom O'Halleran (AZ-01), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Scott H. Peters (CA-52) Bobby L. Rush (IL-01), Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (MP-AL), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Albio Sires (NJ-08), Adam Smith (WA-09), Darren Soto (FL-09), Steve Stivers (OH-15), Eric Swalwell (CA-15), Michael R. Turner (OH-10), Jeff Van Drew (NJ-02), Peter Welch (VT-AL), Jennifer Wexton (VA-10), and Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24). The full text of the letter is available here and below: December 6, 2019 The Honorable Jose Serrano The Honorable Robert Aderholt Chair Ranking Member Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Science, and Related Agencies House Committee on Appropriations House Committee on Appropriations Washington, DC 20515 Washington, DC 20515 The Honorable Rosa DeLauro The Honorable Tom Cole Chair Ranking Member Subcommittee on Labor, Health, and Subcommittee on Labor, Health, and Human Services and Education Human Services and Education House Committee on Appropriations House Committee on Appropriations Washington, DC 20515 Washington, DC 20515 Dear Chairman Serrano, Chairwoman DeLauro, Ranking Member Aderholt and Ranking Member Cole: As final negotiations on FY 2020 appropriations are underway, we thank you and encourage you to maintain the House-passed funding levels for vital programs that address domestic and sexual violence, in particular the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA), and the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA). These key federal funding streams are the cornerstones to ending gender-based violence. Violence against women is contrary to our values and we have a responsibility to prevent and address it. However, there is also an economic case for funding these key programs. Each year, intimate partner violence generates more than $9.05 billion in costs for victims, private companies, and states, including $1.34 billion (8 million days) lost from work. Sexual violence is also very costly. Recent estimates put the cost of rape at $122,461 per victim, including medical costs, lost productivity, criminal justice activities, and other costs. Providing early response, support services, and prevention programs to reduce domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking helps to reduce these costs and save large amounts of public dollars. Otherwise, funding will be spent responding to these crimes through law enforcement, health care, and homeless services, among other services. All three of these programs are essential and need to be funded at the House-passed funding levels. They all serve related but different purposes and fund different activities: Administered by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Family Violence Prevention and Services Act is the first and only dedicated funding source for domestic violence services, and funds emergency shelters, crisis lines, counseling, victim assistance, and other vital services including specialized services for children exposed to domestic violence. We are grateful that the House voted to fully fund FVPSA at $175 million for an increase of $10.5 million over FY 2019. The Senate Appropriations Committee has not yet reported its Labor-HHS bill. Each Violence Against Women Act program helps ensure that victims are safe, offenders are held accountable, and communities are secure. The House funded VAWA at $590.50 million and the Senate funded VAWA at $500 million. We urge you to push for the higher numbers. For example, the Rural Services program helps women living in rural and isolated areas receive services, with over 25% of these victims living more than 40 miles from the closest service provider. In order to address this disparity, the House approved $50 million for the Rural program, while the Senate has approved $43.5 million. Another program that received higher funding in the House was the Consolidated Youth and Prevention Program which helps children exposed to violence and abuse, prevents teen dating violence, and engages men and boys in an effort to combat violence against women and girls. To support these efforts, the House approved $20 million for the Consolidated Youth program, while the Senate has approved $11 million. The need can be made for every VAWA program from the largest programs such as STOP Grants that go out to states, the Sexual Assault Services Program, or the Transitional Housing Program. There is also a great need for more resources to the smallest programs such as services for disabled, elderly, and specific populations such as American Indian and Alaska Native victims. VAWA also funds resource centers such as the Workplace Resource Center to help employers address and prevent violence and abuse, including harassment in the workplace, and critically important public health programs at HHS such as the Rape Prevention and Education Program and Violence Against Women Health State Partnership Initiative. Finally, VOCA uses non-taxpayer money from the Crime Victims Fund for programs that directly serve victims of all types of crimes, including by providing domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, and child abuse treatment programs for victims of domestic violence. We urge you to set the VOCA cap at an average of the past three years' deposits into the VOCA account,maintain a tribal funding stream in VOCA not to transfer funds from VOCA to fund other programs. Again, we are grateful the leadership you have exhibited in securing such strong funding to address and prevent this type of violence and abuse, and we ask that you do all in your power to maintain the House funding levels in the final appropriations legislation for FY 2020. Please let us know how we can be of assistance. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/final-defense-legislation-includes-critical-nh-priorities-secured-by-shaheen,Final Defense Legislation Includes Critical NH Priorities Secured by Shaheen,2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Final Defense Legislation Includes Critical NH Priorities Secured by Shaheen December 09, 2019 **Legislation Procures Additional KC-46 Pegasus Refueling Tankers, the Same Aircraft Replacing KC-135s at Pease Air National Guard Base** **Bill Authorizes Two Virginia-class Submarineswhich are Maintained and Repaired at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard to Help Avert Projected Submarine Shortfall** **Bill Includes Shaheen'sLegislation to Crack Down on Fentanyl Coming from China & Mexico** **Defense Bill Includes BipartisanShaheen-Portman Legislation to Boost EPA Response to PFAS Contamination** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator JeanneShaheen(D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement afterSenate and House conferees released the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)for fiscal year (FY) 2020.The annual legislation authorizes national defense objectives for the fiscal year. TheFY20 NDAAwill next be consideredby both chambers of Congress before it is sent to the President's desk to be signed into law.TheNew Hampshire and national defensepriorities supported byShaheeninclude: Ban on per- andpolyfluoroalkylsubstances (PFAS) from firefighting foam, PFAS blood testing for military firefighters and authorization of an additional $10 million to continue the PFAS health impact study?Shaheen established in the 2018 NDAA; Authorization of 12 KC-46 Pegasus refueling tankers, aircraft that will replace the Air Force's 1950's-era aerial refueling fleet of KC-135s at the New Hampshire Air National Guard base at Pease, which will be a main operating base; Procurement of 2 Virginia-class submarines which are maintained and repaired at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and the authorization of funds for advanced procurement to mitigate an attack submarine shortfall; Provides 12 weeks of paid parental leave for federal employees; 3.1% pay raise for service members which represents the largest such increase in a decade; Eliminates the military Widow's Tax that prevents as many as 65,000 surviving military spouses nationwide from receiving their full Department of Defense (DOD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) survivor benefits; and Bipartisan legislation to crack down on fentanyl coming from China and Mexico. The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is the largest employer in the Seacoast and bolsters New Hampshire's role in support of our national defense, which is why I'm very pleased by the priorities secured in this defense bill that will ensure the Shipyard is empowered with the resources it needs to complete its missions,saidShaheen. This legislation also invests in the future of our airoperations at Pease and providesa well-deservedpay raise to our service members. I appreciate the bipartisan efforts thatwentinto crafting this bill to respond to our defense priorities in New Hampshire andacross the country, and I look forward to seeing this legislation through Congress and to the President's desk. SHAHEEN'S NEW HAMPSHIRE PRIORITIES INCLUDED IN THE FY 2020 NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT: Military Readiness Priorities for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard: Shaheenworked to authorize the procurement of two new Virginia-class submarineswhich are repaired and maintained at Portsmouth Naval Shipyardas well as the authorization of funds foradvanced procurement to mitigate an attack submarine shortfall. SenatorShaheenhas long been a steadfast supporter of the Virginia-class, and a fierce advocate for Shipyard priorities. Last month,Shaheenannouncedwith Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) that a $158 million contractwas awardedto aNew England company to construct asuperfloodbasin and extend portal crane rails for Dry Dock #1 at the Shipyard. Thesuperfloodbasin, similar to a navigational lock, will enable Los Angeles-class and Virginia-class submarines to dock without the use of buoyancy assist tanks.?Asa memberof the Senate Appropriations Committee, SenatorShaheenhelpedsecure this funding in the fiscal year 2019funding legislation. Shaheen recently participated in a groundbreaking ceremonyat the Shipyard for the new Paint, Blast and Rubber facilityand the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Consolidated Warehouse.SenatorShaheenfought tirelessly to secure funding?for these two specific projects.?Shewasalsoinstrumentalinsuccessfully defendingShipyard construction projects including this the Paint, Blast and Rubber Facility against the President's threats to divert potential Shipyard funding towards the border wall.? Due in part to SenatorShaheen'ssuccessful opposition, the defense bill does not include a new round of Base Realignment and Closing (BRAC), which could endanger national security and potentially damage New Hampshire's economy by threatening jobs at the PortsmouthNaval Shipyard. Investments at Pease Air National Guard Base: SenatorShaheenfought to procure 12 KC-46 Pegasus refueling tankers. Thanks to strong advocacy by SenatorShaheenand the New Hampshire National Guard, Peasewas selectedas the Air Force's first Air National Guard KC-46 main operating base, an economic benefit to Pease and the surrounding community.The KC-46 replaces the Air Force's 1950's-era aerial refueling fleet of KC-135s and will serve as the backbone of American air operations for decades to come.The last KC-135?departed Pease?in March to make way for the KC-46.Shaheen?participated?in the arrival event for the first KC-46 to Pease in August. Ban on PFAS Chemicals in Firefighting Foam,ShaheenLegislationto Bolster EPA Response to PFAS& Boost in Funding for PFAS Health Impact Study: SenatorShaheenhas spearheaded efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to PFAS contamination, respond to the chemical exposure and remediate polluted sites.The defense billreleased todayincludesa provisionsecured byShaheenthat would phase out the use of PFAS in DOD firefighting foams and prohibit its use in the military after October 1, 2024.? The provision also requires the military to publish a new firefighting foam military specification by January 1, 2023 and ensure it is available for use by October 1, 2023. Additionally,Shaheensuccessfully authorized $10 million to continue the PFAS health impact study?she established in the FY2018 NDAA.Shaheenhas repeatedly securedthe?necessary authorization and funding?to implement the study. For years, New Hampshire residents have rightly fought for more information, and greater transparency and accountability, in response to their exposure to PFAS chemicals in drinking water. The provisions included in this annual defense bill will help answer those long overdue questions and concerns,saidShaheen. This bill ensures that the health impact study at Pease will continue to move forward without delay and addresses occupational exposure, which impacts our firefighters and military members at a higher rate.While this legislation takes important steps forward, I'm disappointed that some PFAS provisions, which have garnered overwhelming bipartisan support, were substantially weakened. Our work must not end here remediating polluted sites, investing in research and development to find alternatives to PFAS and understanding the full health implications related to PFAS exposure must remain top congressional priorities. I will continue to raise these issues with the administration, reach across the aisle on legislation to confront these problems head on, and work with our local partners to ensure New Hampshire voices are heard and represented every step of the way.?? The defense billalsoincludes a significant package of legislation, cosponsored by Shaheen, aimed at combating PFAS exposure. This PFAS package includesShaheen'sbipartisan legislation with Senator Rob Portman (R-OH), theSafe Drinking Water Assistance Act, which would expedite analysis of water contaminants like PFAS and provide support and resources to states dealing with the health challengesposed by these potentially harmful materials.In addition to theShaheenbill, the NDAA requires federal facilities, including military and National Guard installations, to expedite cooperative agreements with states to address PFAS contamination and add PFAS chemicals to the Toxics Release Inventory, requiring certain manufacturers and producers of PFAS to publicly report their use of the chemicals to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The PFAS package would also require the U.S. Geological Survey to develop advanced testing methods to detect PFAS in the environment and conduct nationwide sampling to test surface and groundwater sources for PFAS. Also included in the defense bill is Shaheen'slegislation with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) that would confront occupational exposure to PFAS the?Protecting Military Firefighters from PFAS Act. The bipartisan bill would require the Department of Defense to include blood testing for PFAS as part of routine physicals for military firefighters.Shaheenand Murkowski?previously called on federal health agencies?to prioritize studies on the health effects of firefighters exposed to PFAS. Support for Military Spouse Occupational Licensing: SenatorShaheenworked to include her?bipartisan legislation?with Senator Cotton (R-AR) that would improve thetransferabilityof occupational licenses from state to state for military spouses, and would also help alleviate the burden spouses endure if they're small business owners from having to constantly re-register their businesses. At a press conference with Senator Cotton and Second Lady Karen Penceearlier this year,Shaheenhighlighted the story of Andrea Krull, whose husband is a Granite Stater, and her personal experience of having to continuously re-establish her business as a consultant with every move. Our military families make enormous sacrifices on behalf of our country, so if we have the opportunity to help make things a little easier for them we need to seize it,saidShaheen. Military spouses face serious challenges starting over in new communities, which are exacerbated when they have to jump through hoops to re-establish their professions.This bipartisan legislation is a commonsense fix to a bureaucratic problem that hinders military spouses from practicing their professions or restarting their businesses as they move with their families throughout the country. I appreciate the bipartisan support this effort received to be included in the defense bill. I look forward to seeing this legislation move through Congress and swiftly signed into law. Sanctions Legislation to Crack Down on Fentanyl Coming from China & Mexico: Shaheensuccessfully included her targeted fentanyl sanctions legislation the?Fentanyl Sanctions Act? to the defense bill. The bipartisan sanctions legislation applies pressure on the Chinese governmentto strictly enforcetheir commitment to make all fentanyl illegal and provides the United States with more tools and resources to target illicit traffickers in China, Mexico and other nations. Shaheen's legislation was originally introduced with Democratic Leader Schumer and Senators Cotton (R-AR), Brown (D-OH), Rubio (R-FL), Menendez (D-NJ) and Toomey (R-PA). Shaheen?met with New Hampshire law enforcement officials?earlier thisyearto discuss the?Fentanyl Sanctions Act, as well as continued efforts to help stem the opioid crisis in New Hampshire. SenatorShaheenis a leader in the Senate on tackling the opioid epidemic. As a senior member on the Senate Appropriations Committee, she helped negotiate the bipartisan agreement in 2018 that outlined two years of opioid response spending totaling $6 billion to address the opioid crisis. This included the?set-aside funding for states with the highest mortality rates, like New Hampshire. This critical additional funding, whichShaheenhelped broker, has been?included by Congress?over the last two fiscal years.As a resultof the Congressional Delegation's efforts, New Hampshire?received?a more than seven-fold increase in annual grant award funding provided through the State Opioid Response Grant program. Concord National Guard Readiness Center: SenatorShaheensupported the authorization of $5.95 million in federal funding for a new National Guard Readiness Center in Concord. This effort builds onShaheen'spriorities in the?FY2019 NDAA, where she successfully authorized funding to build the Pembroke Readiness Center, which supports administrative and logistical requirements for the New Hampshire Army National Guard. ADDITIONAL SHAHEEN DEFENSE PRIORITIES INCLUDED IN FY 2020 NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT: Prohibits F-35 Aircraft to Turkey & States Congress' Intentions Regarding Sanctions Against Turkey's Purchase of the S-400 Air Defense System: SenatorShaheen'sprovision prohibits funds authorized by the NDAA to be used for the transfer of F-35 joint strike fighters to Turkey ifTurkey continues to move forward withthe Russian S-400 air defense system. This prohibition also applies to equipment, intellectual property and technical data necessary for the F-35, and to construct facilities to store the F-35 in Turkey.Shaheen, on a bipartisan basis, was the first to push to ensure that F-35 planes would not be transferred to Turkey as long as a threat to those aircraft and the corresponding technology existed. Since that time, Russia has delivered components of the S-400 system to Turkey and the Department of Defense has implemented this ban. This NDAA provision would codify the ban so it cannot be easily reversed. In addition to the F-35 prohibition,Shaheensuccessfullyincluded an amendment with Senator Lankford (R-OK) to clarify congressional intent regarding sanctions against Turkey'sleadership for its purchase of the RussianS-400 air defensesystem under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).Shaheenplayed a?leading role in negotiations?of CAATSA Russian sanctions legislation. TheShaheen-Lankford amendment specifically expresses the sense of Congress that Turkey's acquisition of Russia's S-400 air defense system undermines the security interests of the United States, weakens the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and is incompatible with Turkey's own security interests. These measures are based onShaheen's?standalone legislation, which she introduced in March withSenatorsLankford, Tillis (R-NC) and VanHollen(D-MD). Last year,Shaheen, Lankford and Tillis?introduced a similar bill?to restrict the transfer of fighter aircraft to Turkey by directing the Secretary of Defense to submit a plan to Congress to remove Turkey from participation in the F-35 program. That bill was ultimately?included in the FY2019 NDAA.Shaheen, Lankford and Tillis also teamed up to raise the case and free Pastor Andrew Brunson, who was unjustly held by the Turkish government.?Pastor Brunson was released?in October 2018 after being detained for two years. Require Secretary of State to Comply with Law & Prioritize Afghan Women's Inclusion in Peace Negotiations: SenatorShaheenadded her provision requiring the Secretary of State to comply with the?Women, Peace and Security Act?which she authored?with Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV)to prioritize Afghan women's inclusion in peace negotiations. The?Women, Peace and Security Act?bolsters women's roles in peace negotiations and conflict resolution around the world.Shaheenhas?led efforts in Congress?pushing the Trump administration to prioritize Afghan women's inclusion in peace negotiations. In February,Shaheen?led a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, urging the administration to prioritize women's inclusion in peace negotiations between the United States and the Taliban in Afghanistan, and to protect the United States' investment in the rights of women and girls. During a Senate Foreign Relations hearing in April,Shaheenrepeatedly asked Secretary of State Pompeo to commit to making Afghan women's inclusion in negotiations a foreign policy priority, to which he refused. Earlier this year,?Shaheen met with women leaders?in Afghanistan about the urgency and importance of their representation in the peace talks. New Senior Coordinator Position to Address ISIS Detainee Issues: Shaheensuccessfully added a provision to establish a senior coordinator position within the Executive Branch for all ISIS detainee issues. This position would lead all diplomatic engagements and planning regarding the future of ISIS detainees. The provision mandates an annual report to Congress on the status of the repatriation, detention and prosecution of high-value ISIS detainees, including detainees associated with the notorious British ISIS cell known as the Beatles, as well as efforts to inform family members of U.S. victims about the status of detainees responsible for crimes against Americans. The creation of this role was originally a recommendation of the Syria Study Group's (SSG)?interim report, but it has since taken on additional importance given the President's abrupt decision to withdraw U.S. troops from northeastern Syria where a majority of ISIS detainees were held.Shaheen?established the Syria Study Group?in the Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill that was signed into lawlastOctober. The Syria Study Group is a bipartisan panel created with the purpose of completing a comprehensive strategic review of America's policy in Syria.Shaheen?has worked closely with the family of James Foley, an American journalist and Granite Stater who was viciously murdered by ISIS jihadists.Shaheenhas fought to ensure that ISIS terrorists culpable in Foley's murder, as well as other U.S. citizens, are brought to trial in the United States. Reauthorizes Afghan SIV Program & 4,000 Visas: As the lead in the Senate for the continuation of the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program, SenatorShaheensuccessfully saw to the reauthorization of the program, as well as 4,000 Afghan SIVs. Shaheen?has led bipartisan efforts?in Congress to reauthorize additional Afghan SIVs, and historically partnered with Senator John McCain (R-AZ) on this priority. In May,?Shaheen introduced new bipartisan legislation?that would reauthorize 4,000 Afghan SIVs for FY 2020. Her provision to reauthorize this critical programwas includedin the FY2020State Department and Foreign Operations Appropriations billthat passed the committee. Targeted Sanctionsto Stop Russian Efforts that Exploit Europe's Energy Dependence: SenatorShaheensuccessfully included a provision based on herstandalone legislationwith Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) to imposehighly-targetedsanctions on the pipe-laying ships involved in Russia's Nord Stream 2 project. Thetargetedvesselsare beingused to construct deep sea pipelines for Russian energy export projects, including Nord Stream 2. This measure also reasserts the importance of the U.S.-Germany alliance and includes several provisions to encourage Germany to alleviate the harm to Ukraine and Europe's energy independence that will likely result from the Nord Stream 2 project. Expand TRICARE Coverage for Life-Improving & Cost-Saving Technology for Diabetes Treatment: SenatorShaheen, co-chair of the Diabetes Caucus, added an amendment that would update TRICARE criteria for the use of continuous glucose monitors and direct the Secretary of Defense to provide an update on its progress no later than 90 days after the defense legislationis enacted. Shaheen has historically partnered with fellow Diabetes Caucus co-chair Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) to expand coverage for continuous glucose monitors, which are critical in helping diabetic patients manage the chronic disease. Tracking Toxic Exposure in Iraq and Afghanistan: SenatorShaheensupported a provision that would require the Secretary of Defense to include an evaluation to determine whether a member of the Armed Forceshas been exposedto open burn pits or toxic airborne chemicals during periodic health assessments, physical examinations and in separation history. Members of the Armed Forces whohave been exposed to toxic airborne chemicals or stationed near an open burn pitwould be automatically enrolled in the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry, unless they opt out, to ensure their records are easily accessible should health complications arise from their exposure. Open burn pitshave been usedextensively in Iraq and Afghanistan and have been linked to a number of illnesses. SenatorShaheenpreviously cosponsored the legislation offered as an amendment as a standalone bill introduced by Senator Klobuchar. Elimination of the Military Widow's Tax: The defense bill includes legislation cosponsored by Senator Shaheen that eliminates the unfair Widow's Tax law that prevents as many as 65,000 surviving military spouses nationwide from receiving their full Department of Defense (DOD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) survivor benefits. The last thing that military spouses should have to deal with after losing a loved one is an unjust reduction in income,said Shaheen. This bipartisan reform finally provides the surviving spouses of our servicemen and women with the full benefits and financial assistance to which they're entitled. I'm glad we were able to work across the aisle to take this important step on behalf of military families. Under current law, the surviving spouse of a retired member who dies of a service-connected cause, or a service member killed on active duty, is entitled to what is known as Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) from the VA. If the military retiree was also enrolled in the Survivors Benefits Plan (SBP), the surviving spouse's SBP benefits are reduced by the amount of DIC. This leaves many widows and widowers with far less per month than they had expected to receive to support their families after their loved one's passing. Each case varies depending on rank and the year of service-related death, but the average DIC offset to SBP pay is $925 per month.Theprovision included in the defense bill repeals this required offset and authorizes payment of both SBP and DIC in the case of a service-connected death.In August, Senator Shaheen sent a letter with her colleagues to the chairs and ranking members of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees urging them to include this provision in the final NDAA. Robust Military Housing Reform in Support of Service Members' Families: The defense bill contains robust military housing privatization reform in support of service members and their families, including a Tenant Bill of Rights. This provision specifically includes a number of legislative fixes thatare addressed?in a standalone bill?SenatorShaheencosponsored with Senators Feinstein (D-CA),Kaine(D-VA), Warner (D-VA) and Harris (D-CA). In April,?Shaheen sent a letter with fellow cosponsors of the bill? the Ensuring Safe Housing for Our Military Act to the Senate Armed Services Committee leadership, requesting that the bill be included in the FY2020 NDAA. The NDAA also requires the Department of Defense to consider any performance history of alandlordalong with the recommendation of the installation commander when renewing or starting a new agreement. This effort builds off the unacceptable reports of sub-standard conditions in various military housing installations. These provisions are necessary to ensure that contractors are responsive to service members' concerns, that military housing officials are exercising proper oversight and that service members are empowered to leave any home that is unsafe for their family without fear of incurring a financial penalty. Paid Parental Leave for Federal Employees: The defense bill includes a provision to provide federal employees with 12 weeks of paid parental leave. The federal government is the nation's largest employer, but federal workers currently have no guaranteed access to paid family or medical leave. Senator Shaheen voted in favor of a motion to instruct Senate conferees to include this provision in the defense bill and has historically been a proponent of paid family leave. Shaheen is also cosponsor of the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Act or FAMILY Act, legislation to create a universal, gender-neutral paid family and medical leave program to support caregivers in the workforce. Establishment of Tech Fellowship for Students: SenatorShaheensupported a provision that would create a one-year technology fellowship for the Department of Defense and Congress. This would place civilians in the Department of Defense or congressional offices with the goal of increasing the number of national security professionals with science, technology, engineering and mathematics credentials employed by DOD and Congress. Help FAA Hire More Air Traffic Controllers and Prioritize Hiring of Veterans & Graduates of FAA Certified Schools: SenatorShaheen'sbipartisan billwith Senator JohnHoeven(R-ND) to help improve the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) hiring process for air traffic controllers was included in the FY2020 NDAA. Their bill theATC Hiring Reform Act would ensure the agency is able to prioritize the hiring of veterans and graduates of FAA Certified Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) schools candidates who have a statistically lower attrition rate during qualification training at the FAA Academy.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-cotton-announce-bipartisan-bill-to-support-military-spouses-included-in-newly-released-defense-legislation,"Shaheen, Cotton Announce Bipartisan Bill to Support Military Spouses Included in Newly Released Defense Legislation",2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Cotton Announce Bipartisan Bill to Support Military Spouses Included in Newly Released Defense Legislation December 09, 2019 **Shaheen and CottonIntroduced the Bill in Maywith Support from Second Lady Karen Pence** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators JeanneShaheen(D-NH) and Tom Cotton(R-AR), both members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statements after successfully including their bipartisan legislation in the final version of the fiscal year (FY) 2020National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).Their bipartisan effort willimprove thetransferabilityofmilitary spouses'occupational licenses, and also help alleviate the burden spouses endure if they're small business owners from having to constantly re-register their businesses as they movefrom state to statewith their families.Senate and House conferees unveiled the FY2020 NDAA annual defense legislation this evening. Our military families make enormous sacrifices on behalf of our country, so if we have the opportunity to help make things a little easier for them we need to seize it,saidShaheen. Military spouses face serious challenges starting over in new communities, which are exacerbated when they have to jump through hoops to re-establish their professions.This bipartisan legislation is a commonsense fix to a bureaucratic problem that hinders military spouses from practicing their professions or restarting their businesses as they move with their families throughout the country. I appreciate the bipartisan support this effort received to be included in the defense bill. I look forward to seeing this legislation move through Congress and swiftly signed into law. Military families already shoulder heavy loads for our country, so they shouldn't also have to worry about state regulations that prevent wives or husbands from working in their own profession, said Cotton. Our bipartisan bill will ensure those spouses can pursue their careers uninterrupted, even while they're moving their family from state to state and base to base. And now that our bill has been included in this year's defense bill, I urge Congress to swiftly pass our legislation for the spouses of servicemembers across the United States. Shaheen and Cotton'slegislation would allow the Department of Defense (DoD) to use defense dollars to help states come up with uniform standards foroccupationallicenses.The bill wouldalso help alleviate the burden military?spouses endure when having to re-register a small business in a new state each time a service member gets relocated to a new military installation.Resolving the issue of military?spouse?licensing is a national security concern, helping alleviate the choice for service members between their career and the career of their?spouses.?? Shaheenand Cottonintroduced the standalone legislation earlier thisyearat a press conference with Second Lady Karen Pence.Shaheen highlighted the story of AndreaKrull, whose husband is a Granite Stater, and her personal experience of having to continuously re-establish her business as a consultant with every move.Incommittee-approved funding legislation,Senator Shaheen secured $4 million to implementthe legislation. Background: Over 34% of military?spouses work in fields that require a state license in order to practice. These?spouses are often required to recertify and pay to recertify this license every time they move between states with their?spouse. Re-certification has become too long, expensive, detrimental to the careers of?spouses, and prohibitive financiallytomilitary families who could benefit from two household incomes instead of one. This process often effects a service member's desire to stay in the military long-term.?? This legislation wouldimpact?spouses working in fields such as health-related occupations and education. 56 percent of licensed military?spouses in health-related occupations and 29 percent in education respectively. The fields which could potentially benefit from this legislation include, but are not limited to, the following: teachers, advance practice nurses, physician's assistants, occupational therapists, dentists, dental hygienists, nutritionists, counselors, social workers, veterinarians, cosmetologists and realtors.? Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-helps-secure-elimination-of-military-widows-tax-in-final-national-defense-authorization-act,Shaheen Helps Secure Elimination of Military “Widow’s Tax” in Final National Defense Authorization Act,2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Helps Secure Elimination of Military Widow's Tax in Final National Defense Authorization Act December 09, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement after Senate and House conferees released the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year (FY) 2020. The annual legislation authorizes national defense objectives for the fiscal year. Among the numerous New Hampshire and national defense priorities supported by Senator Shaheen is legislation she cosponsored to eliminate the unfair Widow's Tax law that prevents as many as 65,000 surviving military spouses nationwide from receiving their full Department of Defense (DOD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) survivor benefits. The last thing that military spouses should have to deal with after losing a loved one is an unjust reduction in income,said Shaheen. This bipartisan reform finally provides the surviving spouses of our servicemen and women with the full benefits and financial assistance to which they're entitled. I'm glad we were able to work across the aisle to take this important step on behalf of military families. Under current law, the surviving spouse of a retired member who dies of a service-connected cause, or a service member killed on active duty, is entitled to what is known as Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) from the VA. If the military retiree was also enrolled in the Survivors Benefits Plan (SBP), the surviving spouse's SBP benefits are reduced by the amount of DIC. This leaves many widows and widowers with far less per month than they had expected to receive to support their families after their loved one's passing. Each case varies depending on rank and the year of service-related death, but the average DIC offset to SBP pay is $925 per month.Theprovision included in the defense bill repeals this required offset and authorizes payment of both SBP and DIC in the case of a service-connected death.In August, Senator Shaheen sent a letter with her colleagues to the chairs and ranking members of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees urging them to include this provision in the final NDAA. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-secures-ban-of-pfas-chemicals-in-firefighting-foam-continued-funding-for-health-impact-study-and-blood-tests-for-military-firefighters-in-national-defense-bill,"Shaheen Secures Ban of PFAS Chemicals in Firefighting Foam, Continued Funding for Health Impact Study & Blood Tests for Military Firefighters in National Defense Bill",2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Secures Ban of PFAS Chemicals in Firefighting Foam, Continued Funding for Health Impact Study & Blood Tests for Military Firefighters in National Defense Bill December 09, 2019 **Shaheen?Established the PFAS Health Impact Study?in the Fiscal Year 2018 Annual Defense Bill** **Shaheen Fought for Pease?to Serve as a Model Site for Nationwide PFAS Health Impact Study** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator JeanneShaheen(D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement after Senate and House conferees released the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year (FY) 2020.The annual legislationauthorizes national defense objectives for the fiscal year.Amongthe numerous New Hampshire and national defense priorities secured byShaheenareseveralmeasures that respond to per-andpolyfluoroalkylsubstances (PFAS)exposure,which has been a serious issue in New Hampshirecommunities. For years, New Hampshire residents have rightly fought for more information, and greater transparency and accountability, in response to their exposure to PFAS chemicals in drinking water. The provisions included in this annual defense bill will help answer those long overdue questions and concerns,saidShaheen. This bill ensures that the health impact study at Pease will continue to move forward without delay and addresses occupational exposure, which impacts our firefighters and military members at a higher rate.While this legislation takes important steps forward, I'm disappointed that some PFAS provisions, which have garnered overwhelming bipartisan support, were substantially weakened. Our work must not end here remediating polluted sites, investing in research and development to find alternatives to PFAS and understanding the full health implications related to PFAS exposure must remain top congressional priorities. I will continue to raise these issues with the administration, reach across the aisle on legislation to confront these problems head on, and work with our local partners to ensure New Hampshire voices are heard and represented every step of the way.?? SenatorShaheenhas spearheaded efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to PFAS contamination, respond to the chemical exposure and remediate polluted sites.The defense billreleased todayincludesa provisionsecured byShaheenthat would phase out the use of PFAS in Department of Defense firefighting foams and prohibit its use in the military after October 1, 2024.? The provision also requires the military to publish a new firefighting foam military specification by January 1, 2023 and ensure it is available for use by October 1, 2023. Additionally,Shaheensuccessfully authorized $10 million to continue the PFAS health impact study?she established in the FY2018 NDAA.Shaheenhas repeatedly securedthe?necessary authorization and funding?to implement the study. The defense billalsoincludes a significant package of legislation, cosponsored by Shaheen, aimed at combating PFAS exposure. This PFAS package includesShaheen'sbipartisan legislation with Senator Rob Portman (R-OH), theSafe Drinking Water Assistance Act, which would expedite analysis of water contaminants like PFAS and provide support and resources to states dealing with the health challengesposed by these potentially harmful materials.In addition to theShaheenbill, the NDAA requires federal facilities, including military and National Guard installations, to expedite cooperative agreements with states to address PFAS contamination and add PFAS chemicals to the Toxics Release Inventory, requiring certain manufacturers and producers of PFAS to publicly report their use of the chemicals to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The PFAS package would also require the U.S. Geological Survey to develop advanced testing methods to detect PFAS in the environment and conduct nationwide sampling to test surface and groundwater sources for PFAS. Also included in the defense bill is Shaheen'slegislation with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) that would confront occupational exposure to PFAS the?Protecting Military Firefighters from PFAS Act. The bipartisan bill would require the Department of Defense to include blood testing for PFAS as part of routine physicals for military firefighters.Shaheenand Murkowski?previously called on federal health agencies?to prioritize studies on the health effects of firefighters exposed to PFAS. TheFY20 NDAAwill next be consideredby both chambers of Congress before it is sent to the President's desk to be signed into law. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-statement-on-bipartisan-compromise-to-end-surprise-medical-billing-lower-health-care-costs,"Shaheen Statement on Bipartisan Compromise to End Surprise Medical Billing, Lower Health Care Costs",2019-12-09,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Statement on Bipartisan Compromise to End Surprise Medical Billing, Lower Health Care Costs December 09, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement in response to the bipartisan, bicameral agreement reached by Senate and House committee leadership to reduce health care costs, which includes an effort to end surprise medical billing, lower prescription drug costs and fund Community Health Centers for five years: I'm very encouraged by the bipartisan agreement reached to clamp down on surprise medical bills and urge leadership to hold a vote on surprise billing legislation as soon as possible, said Shaheen. These surprise bills often cost thousands of dollars which can easily put a family budget in the red.Congress must overcome special interest opposition to addressing this issue so that we can rein in health care costs and deliver much-needed savings for Granite State families and Americans across the country. Senator Shaheen has fought to end surprise medical billing, and because of her efforts, was targeted by a dark money ad campaign that sought to thwart bipartisan work on this issue. On the Senate floor earlier this year, Shaheen called out these underhanded tactics and reaffirmed her commitment to work across the aisle to end the scourge of surprise medical billing. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/congress-in-your-corner/catching-up-with-annie/at-work-for-you,At work for you,2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend, Remembering Our Troops During the Holidays With Laura Landerman-Garber For 16 years, Laura Landerman-Garber of Hollis has been collecting holiday letters and cards from children all over the country and sending them to American troops serving abroad. It's always wonderful to meet with Laura, sign cards, and talk about her commitment to making the holidays brighter for our service men and women. Laura, keep up the great work you make New Hampshire proud! Combating Illegal Robocalls All Americans know what it's like to receive countless robocalls often multiple times a day. I was glad to vote in favor of bipartisan legislation the Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act this week to help put the American consumer back in control and reduce the frequency of these incessant, disruptive calls. I'm pleased the House and Senate came together in a bipartisan way to pass this commonsense and much-needed bill, and I urge the President to swiftly sign it into law. Standing Up for Critical Nutrition Assistance The Trump Administration's announcement that it will end nutrition assistance for approximately 700,000 Americans demonstrates a clear lack of care and concern for people who are struggling to put food on the table. Both Democrats and Republicans in Congress rejected these cuts to the SNAP program last year. The Administration's rule recklessly casts people from the program without considering what economic, geographic, health, and other factors may contribute to their needing food assistance. I hope that the President will re-think this unnecessary and cruel decision. Getting PFAS Chemicals Out of Cosmetics It was great to join my Energy and Commerce Committee colleagues on Wednesday to hear from administration officials, cosmetic industry professionals, and environmental experts to explore how we can empower the Food and Drug Administration to ensure all cosmetic and personal care products are safe. Despite our progress in New Hampshire to get PFAS chemicals out of our backyards, PFAS is present in many cosmetic and personal care products. From makeup to shampoo, Americans deserve products free from these harmful chemicals. I look forward to the work ahead to protect communities in the Granite State and across the nation from PFAS. Speaking out against PFAS chemicals in cosmetics. Watch here. Ensuring New Hampshire Workers are Treated Fairly While it's encouraging the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has heeded my request to return to the bargaining table and have a fair and open discussion with American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) union representatives, the EPA should have come to this decision sooner. These union representatives are following in the footsteps of previous generations of union members who fought tirelessly for basic fairness and justice on the job, and they deserve a fair negotiation process. I'll be monitoring this situation in the hopes that an acceptable contract will be agreed upon in a timely manner. I will continue to stand up for the hard-working men and women in New Hampshire and I'll keep working to ensure that workers nationwide are treated fairly and with respect. Building a Clean Economy The Granite State is home to some of our nation's most pristine, breathtaking lands, and we must act to protect them for future generations. I was proud to join my colleagues in introducing the 100% Clean Economy Act a critical step to combat climate change, improve public health, and strengthen our economy with green jobs. The time to act on climate is now. I look forward to my continued work to protect all that makes New Hampshire such a special place to call home. A Somber but Necessary Step This week, Speaker Pelosi announced that the House will begin to draft articles of impeachment. I believe this is a somber but necessary moment for our democracy and to protect our national security. We are taking this one step at a time, and when the House Judiciary Committee advances articles of impeachment, I will evaluate each on its individual merits and content. The House Intelligence Committee's report on the impeachment inquiry uncovered substantial and uncontested evidence that President Trump abused the power of the presidency to solicit foreign interference in our election for his own political gain. Every American should have an opportunity to assess the facts and draw conclusions from the evidence. I encourage you to examine the evidence and reach out to my office with your thoughts. Giving Back to the Community It was wonderful to join my husband Brad, members of my staff and local volunteers to serve lunch at The Friendly Kitchen in Concord on Monday- thank you Chef Carl and Val for hosting us! Giving back to others is what the holiday season is all about. Honoring Bill Luti a Granite State Role Model Like so many Granite Staters, I am looking back fondly on the life of Bill Luti, who passed away last week at the age of 98. Bill coached cross country and track for decades at Concord High School and inspired countless young people to challenge themselves and live up to their potential. He was also a role model for young women, having started Concord High's girls' track and field program in the 1970s, when girls' participation in sports was not taken as seriously as it is today. My thoughts are with Bill's family and friends at this time his kind and generous spirit will be long remembered. Here for You I encourage you to continue reaching out to me with any questions, concerns or ideas you have I love hearing from Granite Staters! You can contact my Concord office at 603-226-1002 or my Washington, DC office at 202-225-5206. Thank you for your wonderful contributions to our great state I hope you enjoy your weekend! Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/epa-heeds-kuster-request-to-renegotiate-union-contract-with-new,EPA Heeds Kuster Request to Renegotiate Union Contract with New Hampshire Workers,2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) released the following statement on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) announcement that it will return to the bargaining table with the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) to discuss the ongoing labor dispute. Under the terms of the settlement, EPA and AFGE will resume negotiations on a new contract within 30 days. The EPA's decision to return to the table comes after Kuster joined Representative Paul Tonko and Energy & Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone last month in leading a bipartisan group of 228 Members of Congress calling on the EPA to negotiate in good faith with union representatives on behalf of hundreds of Granite State AFGE members and workers nationwide. It's encouraging the EPA has heeded my request to have a fair and open discussion with union representatives, though I wish the agency came to this decision sooner, said Kuster. These union representatives are following in the footsteps of previous generations of union members who fought tirelessly for basic fairness and justice on the job, and they deserve a fair negotiation process. I'll be monitoring this situation in the hopes that an acceptable contract will be agreed upon in a timely manner. I will continue to stand up for the hard-working men and women in New Hampshire and I'll keep working to ensure that workers nationwide are treated fairly and with respect. In June 2019, EPA imposed a unilateral management directive that impacts more than 14,000 EPA employees in place of a negotiated collective bargaining agreement. This directive reduced telework options for EPA employees, eliminated important due process rights for workers and removed union members from their membership without their consent. The directive violates the rights and protections that Congress specifically guaranteed to public-sector employees. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/heeding-bipartisan-calls-spearheaded-by-shaheen-dod-agrees-to-expand-coverage-of-lifesaving-breast-cancer-screenings,"Heeding Bipartisan Calls Spearheaded by Shaheen, DOD Agrees to Expand Coverage of Lifesaving Breast Cancer Screenings",2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Heeding Bipartisan Calls Spearheaded by Shaheen, DOD Agrees to Expand Coverage of Lifesaving Breast Cancer Screenings December 06, 2019 (Washington, DC) Heeding bipartisan calls in Congress led by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Martha McSally (R-AZ), both members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, the Department of Defense (DoD) agreed to expand TRICARE coverage for improved breast cancer screening options for female service members and veterans starting next month. In September, the Senators led a bipartisan letter to Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs Thomas McCaffery, requesting that DoD expand TRICARE's coverage to include Digital Breast Tomosynthesis, also known as DBT or 3D mammography. In his response to Shaheen, Assistant Secretary McCaffery confirmed that TRICARE would add coverage for 3D mammography. This change will become effective on January 1, 2020, ensuring that women who have served or currently serve in the armed forces have access to the newest medical and technological advancements that have the best possible chance of detecting breast cancer early. Before DoD's confirmation, TRICARE was the only national payer to not offer preventative screening with 3D mammography, creating a lower standard of care for women serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. In addition to her letter sent to DoD, Shaheen recently introduced bipartisan legislation with McSally, the Better and Robust Screening Today Act, to require DoD to cover 3D mammograms as an option for preventive breast cancer screening. Shaheen has consistently fought to improve health care for service members and expand access to lifesaving screenings. In June, she introduced a bipartisan bill, the Protecting Access to Lifesaving Screenings (PALS) Act of 2019, to increase access to breast cancer screenings for women. Specifically, the bill would postpone recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) that would limit access to breast cancer screenings for women in their 40s.It would continue the moratorium on the USPSTF recommendations, which Congress has extended several times. Our female service members and veterans deserve access to the latest and most effective cancer screening options, full stop, said Shaheen. Our servicewomen should never be subjected to a lower standard of care than those they're sworn to protect, so I'm very relieved the Department of Defense heeded our bipartisan call to ensure TRICARE expands coverage to include these lifesaving breast cancer screenings. I'll continue to fight on behalf of our servicewomen and their families to ensure they receive the best care possible to put their personal health and well-being first. The Senators' original request can be read here, and the letter from DOD can be read here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/senate-clears-bill-cosponsored-by-shaheen-and-hassan-to-award-congressional-gold-medal-to-wwii-us-army-special-operators,Senate Clears Bill Cosponsored by Shaheen & Hassan to Award Congressional Gold Medal to WWII U.S. Army Special Operators,2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senate Clears Bill Cosponsored by Shaheen & Hassan to Award Congressional Gold Medal to WWII U.S. Army Special Operators December 06, 2019 (Washington, DC) Bipartisan legislation backed by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the U.S. Army's 5307th Composite Unit, more commonly known as Merrill's Marauder's, unanimously passed the Senate last night. The Unit became known as Merrill's Marauder's in reference to its leader, Brigadier General Frank Merrill, who later served as New Hampshire's Highway Commissioner. The Merrill's Marauder's Congressional Gold Medal Act recognizes the extraordinary service of nearly 3,000 U.S. Army Special Forces volunteers whose successful efforts to drive a much larger Japanese force out of Myanmar, then called Burma, in World War II proved critical to Allied success in the theater. Merrill's Marauder's fought in some of the most intense jungle combat operations of World War II and were critical to Allied success in the region, said Senator Shaheen. Their service and sacrifice embodies the highest tenets of our service members throughout history. This bipartisan bill awards the highest honor Congress can bestow to a unit of courageous volunteers, who are so deserving of such recognition. Our nation is forever in their debt. As U.S. service members fought for our country in World War II, President Roosevelt asked for volunteers to join a special operations unit and brave men stepped up to serve, training in the Himalayan mountains and fighting five major battles in just over five months in some of the most dangerous circumstances. These members of Merrill's Marauders' exemplify the best of what it means to serve, putting your life on the line to keep our country safe, secure, and free, said Senator Hassan. Merrill's Marauders' is named for its first commander, Brigadier General Frank Merrill, who went on to become the New Hampshire Highway Commissioner after he retired from the military. I am particularly proud to honor General Merrill's legacy and all who served with him, and I urge our colleagues in the House to pass this bill and send it to the President's desk without delay. The 5307th Composite Unit was formed in August 1943 after President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Allied leaders proposed the creation of a ground unit of the Armed Forces to engage in a long-range penetration mission in Japanese-occupied Burma to cut off Japanese communications and supply lines and to capture critical points held by Japanese forces. Despite intense secrecy surrounding the mission, approximately 3,000 American soldiers volunteered to join the force, not knowing where the mission would take them or whether they would return. By August of the following year, the Unit successfully completed their mission with only 130 of the original force remaining fit for duty. The Unit's legacy is honored by the U.S. Army through the modern day 75th Ranger Regiment, which traces its lineage directly to the 5307th Composite Unit. Text of the legislation is available here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-murkowski-unveil-bipartisan-fix-to-tax-bill-to-provide-relief-to-communities-and-companies-unfairly-taxed-on-critical-water-infrastructure-investments,"Shaheen, Murkowski Unveil Bipartisan Fix to Tax Bill to Provide Relief to Communities & Companies Unfairly Taxed on Critical Water Infrastructure Investments",2019-12-06,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Murkowski Unveil Bipartisan Fix to Tax Bill to Provide Relief to Communities & Companies Unfairly Taxed on Critical Water Infrastructure Investments December 06, 2019 **Under Current Tax Law, Local Infrastructure Projectsare Unfairly Taxed, Creating a Disincentive to Important Investments ** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) unveiled new, bipartisan legislation that would fix an unfair measure in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA), which has led to exorbitant taxes on critical water infrastructure investments in New Hampshire, Alaska, and across the nation. Senator Hassan (D-NH) is also a cosponsor of the bill. The TCJA made adjustments to the Contribution In Aid of Construction (CIAC) tax.Previously, water and wastewater utilities were exempted from this tax; however, the TCJA reinstated the CIAC tax on these entities, which will either have to be covered by state and local governments or passed along to the ratepayers and property taxpayers. These changes have already resulted in$1.15 million in new federal taxes for water infrastructure projects in Southern New Hampshire and will serve in the future as a strong disincentive against investments in water infrastructure and community development. Water infrastructure is vital to economic development and fundamental to delivering clean drinking water. Communities across New Hampshire have been planning projects for years that are now threatened by this new tax, said Shaheen. Congress should be encouraging infrastructure development which is why we need to fix this tax bill that was rushed through Congress. I appreciate Senator Murkowski's support on this bipartisan, common-sense effort and I urge more members to join us so our communities can make urgently needed investments in clean and safe drinking water. I am pleased to join Senator Shaheen in introducing a bill to restore tax-exempt status of contributions in aid of construction received by water utilities. Many water and sewer utilities in Alaska rely on contributions of homebuilders and others interested in expansion of service to offset the cost of service build-out. In the absence of this, the cost gets passed on to customers in the form of higher bills. I have said from the start that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act had room for improvement, and this legislation is a positive step towards fine-tuning the tax reform bill to bring relief to those who already struggle to face the high costs of basic water and sewer service in a state like Alaska, said Murkowski. The U.S. tax code has long provided favorable tax treatment for what are known as Contributions in Aid of Construction (CIAC), as well as for certain grants made by governmental or civic entities, to help companies and communities make investments in projects that benefit the public. Since 1996, the U.S. tax code has included a specific provision that excludes these contributions made to water and sewer utilities from their taxable income. Unfortunately, the TCJA eliminated this tax exemption. The TCJA also made an additional change that eliminated the tax-free treatment of capital contributions if made by governmental entities or civic groups. These changes could impact the Drinking Water and Groundwater Trust Fund in New Hampshire, as well as municipal governments that make investments in water or other infrastructure. Specifically, Shaheen and Murkowski's bill would reverse these two harmful changes to the U.S. tax code and revert these specific provisions to pre-TCJA status. Bill text of the legislation can be found here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-statement-on-trump-administration-cuts-to-snap-benefits-for,"Kuster Statement on Trump Administration Cuts to SNAP Benefits for Approximately 700,000 Americans",2019-12-04,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) issued the following statement on the Trump Administration's announcement today to end nutrition assistance benefits for approximately 700,000 Americans. The Administration's plan includes a new regulation that makes it more difficult for states to obtain waivers from a requirement that beneficiaries work or take part in a vocational training program. Approximately 74,000 New Hampshire residents received Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in November 2019. In the Granite State, the average SNAP benefit per recipient, per meal is a modest $1.11. Nearly 700,000 Americans will be at risk of going hungry as a result of the Trump Administration's decision to make devastating cuts to the SNAP program, said Rep. Kuster. These cuts demonstrate a clear lack of care and concern for Americans who are struggling to put food on the table. This is especially true for workers in low-wage, undependable jobs or those in rural areas where gainful employment opportunities may be more limited. Both Democrats and Republicans in Congress rejected these cuts to the SNAP program last year now, the Administration is using this rule to ignore the judgement of Congress. The rule recklessly casts people from the program without considering what economic, geographic, health, and other factors may contribute to their needing help putting food on the table. I hope that the President will re-think this unnecessary and cruel decision. Current law requires that most able-bodied adults with or without children must register for work, with waivers being granted to people under 18, elderly adults 60 and older, and those who are pregnant, disabled or in a caretaking role. According to a Brookings Institution study published last year, more stringent work requirements are likely to negatively impact people who are already working but have more sporadic, unreliable employment. Kuster, who served on the House Agriculture Committee for six years and was a Conferee on the House Farm Bill Conference Committee, has been a vocal advocate for SNAP. Last year, she highlighted the importance of working across the aisle to protect the integrity of the program, and decried the partisan Farm Bill advanced a few months prior that included over $23 billion in cuts to SNAP. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-votes-to-pass-bipartisan-legislation-to-combat-illegal-robocalls,Kuster Votes to Pass Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Illegal Robocalls,2019-12-04,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02) voted in favor of the Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act, which passed the House this afternoon. This bipartisan legislation protects American consumers from robocalls, fraud, and abuse. All Americans know what it's like to receive countless unwanted and bothersome robocalls, often multiple times a day, said Kuster. This legislation will help put the American consumer back in control and reduce the frequency of these incessant, disruptive calls. I'm pleased the House and Senate came together in a bipartisan way to pass this commonsense and much-needed bill, and I urge the President to swiftly sign it into law. The legislation would help combat illegal robocalls by creating significant penalties for violations of the ban on certain robocalls. This legislation also requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to institute a rule to help protect a subscriber from receiving unwanted calls or texts from an unauthenticated number. The TRACED Act was led by Senator John Thune (R-SD) and Chairman Frank Pallone (D-NJ). The legislation will now head to President Trump's desk for his signature. Kuster voted in favor of similar legislation, the Stopping Bad Robocalls Act (H.R.3375), in July. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-praise-house-approval-of-bipartisan-anti-robocall-bill-and-call-for-a-final-vote-in-the-senate,"Shaheen, Hassan Praise House-Approval of Bipartisan Anti-Robocall Bill & Call for a Final Vote in the Senate",2019-12-04,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan Praise House-Approval of Bipartisan Anti-Robocall Bill & Call for a Final Vote in the Senate December 04, 2019 **Both Shaheen and Hassan are Co-sponsors of the Legislation** SHAHEEN: As we approach the holidays, one of the best gifts this Congress could give the American people is relief from the scourge of robocalls HASSAN: Unless the unknown caller is Mr. Claus himself, no one wants to be barraged with unsolicited phone calls during the holidays, or any time of the year"" **136 Million Robocalls have been Placed to New Hampshire Phone Numbers So Far This Year** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) issued the following statements after the House of Representatives passed bipartisan legislation to crack down on robocalls. The legislation improves the federal government's ability to find scammers, increases penalties on those caught, and requires call authentication and blocking technology to be made available free of charge to consumers. The bill also brings relevant federal agencies and state attorneys general together to evaluate policies and resources needed to better prosecute and deter illegal robocalls, among other provisions. Both the Senate and House passed versions of the bill earlier this year. Shaheen and Hassan are cosponsors of the bill that passed the Senate in May. Lawmakers from both chambers conferenced on the bills and unveiled negotiated legislation last week. Now that this legislation has passed the House, it will next go before the Senate for consideration before it is sent to the President to be signed into law. As we approach the holidays, one of the best gifts this Congress could give the American people is relief from the scourge of robocalls, said Senator Shaheen. Granite Staters are absolutely fed up with these illegal calls and it's past time for Congress to act to deliver accountability to those responsible. I'm very relieved that we've been able to make progress on a bipartisan basis, and I urge Leader McConnell to bring this bill up for a final vote in the Senate quickly so that this measure can be signed into law by the President. Unless the unknown caller is Mr. Claus himself, no one wants to be barraged with unsolicited phone calls during the holidays, or any time of the year, said Senator Hassan. Congressional action to stem the tide of these obnoxious, illegal calls and hold scammers accountable is long overdue. I urge Majority Leader McConnell to take the critical step of bringing this commonsense, bipartisan legislation up for a vote in the Senate without delay so that it can be signed into law before the end of the year. So far this year, Americans have received 54 billion robocalls and more than 136 million were placed to New Hampshire numbers. In June, Shaheen held a press conference in Concord with the New Hampshire Department of Justice, AARP New Hampshire, the Public Utilities Commission and other Granite State stakeholders to discuss the work underway in Congress to combat the bombardment of robocalls. The legislation would do the following to clamp down on robocalls: Broadens the authority of the FCC to immediately levy civil penalties of up to $10,000 per call on those who intentionally flout telemarketing restrictions; Extends the window for the FCC to catch and take civil enforcement action against intentional violations from one to four years after a robocall is placed; Requires service providers to implement call authentication and blocking technologies free of charge for consumers and small businesses; Brings together relevant federal agencies as well as state attorneys general and other non-federal entities to identify and report to Congress on improving deterrence and criminal prosecution of robocall scams at the federal and state levels; Directs the FCC to initiate a rulemaking process to help protect subscribers from receiving unwanted calls or texts from callers using unauthenticated numbers; Requires the FCC to establish partnerships to better inform efforts to protect consumers, including an advisory committee to develop best practices to combat unlawful robocalls made to hospitals, and a consortium to trace the origins of illegal robocalls; Directs the FCC to protect consumers from one-ring scams, in which callers ring once and then hang up, attempting to trick the consumer into calling back and incurring hefty charges; and Requires the FCC to report to Congress on enforcement and compliance progress. Full text of the legislation is available here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-receives-assurance-of-plans-for-dry-dock-at-pnsy-,Shaheen Receives Assurance of Plans for Dry Dock at PNSY,2019-12-04,2019,2019-12,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Receives Assurance of Plans for Dry Dock at PNSY December 04, 2019 **Following a report from the Government Accountability Office on the need for improvements at our nation's shipyards, Shaheen also spoke of the need to expand the industrial supply base that builds new vessels and provides replacement parts** Shaheen questions senior defense officials on the U.S. Navy's Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Plan during today's Senate Armed Services Committee hearing. Watch the Clip of Senator Shaheen's Questioning Here. (Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) questioned senior defense officials in a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on maintaining and optimizing the nation's ship and submarine fleet. Shaheen asked U.S. Navy Vice Admiral Thomas Moore if the Multi-Mission Dry Dock project atthe Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY), is still on track to be submitted in the Trump administration's FY21 budget request. Vice Admiral Moore confirmed that it was, stating that the project is a key component of our overall strategy. During the hearing and following a report from the Government Accountability Office on the need for improvements at our nation's shipyards, including PNSY, Shaheen spoke of the need to expand the industrial supply base that builds new vessels and provides replacement parts, noting that during the Cold War, the U.S. submarine fleet had over 17,000 suppliers, now we have about 3,500 active suppliers. Shaheen questioned senior defense officials on the U.S. Navy's status on implementing its Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Plan, which is vital to rebuild and maintain critical shipyard infrastructure where the nation's submarines and aircraft carriers are constructed and repaired. Shaheen also referenced her recent visit to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard to celebrate the groundbreaking for a Paint, Blast and Rubber Facility and Defense Logistics Agency warehouse, which are a part of the optimization plan, noting that the projects are critical pieces if we are going to continue making the Shipyard more efficient. The Paint, Blast and Rubber facility had been previously threatened by President Trump's emergency declaration, which has diverted funds set aside by Congress for U.S. troops and military projects to fund a border wall on the southern border. In concluding her questioning, Shaheen thanked Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development, and Acquisition James Geurts for attending the USS Thresher Memorial Dedication Ceremony in September, which honored the 129 men of the Thresher who lost their lives when the submarine tragically sank 56 years ago, saying, to finally get that memorial meant so much to the families and to be able to recognize the SUBSAFE program that grew out of that tragedy and the difference that that's made in keeping our sailors safe is really important. Thank you very much. Senator Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, hasfought tirelessly to secure fundingfor the Shipyard. She was alsoinstrumentalin defending Shipyard construction projects against the President's threats to divert potential Shipyard funding towards the border wall.Since the President first announced his emergency declaration and projects at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard were initially listed as potential targets to lose funding, including the Paint, Blast and Rubber facility, Senator Shaheen hassuccessfully defendedthe funding secured by Congress. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shaheen-hassan-kuster-announce-more-than-300000-in-federal-funds-for,"Shaheen, Hassan & Kuster Announce More than $300,000 in Federal Funds for Rural Development Projects in Cheshire and Coos Counties",2019-11-27,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced today with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded more than $300,000 in federal grants for a variety of projects throughout Cheshire and Coos Counties that invest in rural community development. Specifically, the Northern Forest Center in Concord will receive $188,547 to expand broadband access and digital literacy in Lancaster, New Hampshire. The funding will also benefit communities in Maine and Vermont that are underserved by broadband. The Town of Lancaster will also receive $17,500 to purchase a new vehicle for the Police Department to more safely and efficiently respond to emergencies in the White Mountains area. The Town of Northumberland will receive $50,000 for the Groveton ambulance department to purchase improved defibrillator technology that will help first responders better discern symptoms related to heart attacks or drug overdoses. The advanced equipment includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology, allowing the receiving hospital to monitor the patient's current medical status while in transport. The Southwestern Community Services in Keene will receive $60,000 to help low-income residents make safety and energy efficiency improvements to their homes. This grant is facilitated by the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), a federal program Shaheen has long-championed. These federal grants are important investments in New Hampshire's rural communities from expanding access to broadband, to investing in our first responders' equipment and resources to keep our residents safe, to helping our low-income families make critical improvements to lower their household costs this federal funding will go a long way, said Senator Shaheen. Securing the funding for programs like this that invest in the economic vitality and safety of our rural communities will always be top of my list during the appropriations process. These rural development grants will provide critical support for families, law enforcement, and businesses across our state, said Senator Hassan. I will continue to advocate strongly for projects like these that advance the health, safety, and economic prosperity of all Granite Staters, in all parts of our state. These grants will enable our rural New Hampshire communities to expand access to broadband, upgrade equipment utilized by law enforcement and emergency personnel, and make important repairs to disadvantaged homes, said Congresswoman Kuster. I will continue to work with my colleagues to secure funding for meaningful investments in our economy and the health and wellbeing of Granite Staters. A senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Shaheen has fought to secure funding that invests in rural development projects. In funding legislation recently passed by the Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen successfully secured $303.5 million for the Weatherization Assistance Program, an increase of $46.5 million over last year's funding levels. In the same funding legislation, Shaheen worked to establish the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) State Capacity Building Grant Program, to increase the region's capacity for business retention and expansion, increase access to high-speed broadband, and other critical infrastructure. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pappas-nhdot-commissioner-sheehan-mayor-craig-discuss-bipartisan,"Congressman Pappas, NHDOT Commissioner Sheehan, Mayor Craig Discuss Bipartisan Effort to Protect NH Highway Funding",2019-11-27,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"MANCHESTER, NH - Today in Manchester, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) was joined by New Hampshire Department of Transportation Commissioner Victoria Sheehan, Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig, and other transportation officials and stakeholders to discuss the bipartisan effort he led in the House to protect nearly $40 million in federal highway infrastructure funding from being rescinded from New Hampshire. Earlier this month, Congressman Pappas and Congressman Don Young (R-AK) sent a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, signed by 107 House colleagues, that lead to the repeal of the FAST Act rescission. This repeal, included in the Continuing Resolution signed by President Trump on Thursday, protected states from a $7.6 billion loss in highway funding, including $37.8 million in New Hampshire. This amounts to 20 percent of the state's annual infrastructure funding that could have been lost. Federal-state partnerships play a critical role in maintaining and rebuilding our infrastructure, said Congressman Chris Pappas. Immediate action was necessary to safeguard these funds. I am proud to see that our bipartisan effort encouraged leaders to work together to ensure states like New Hampshire get the resources that were allocated to rebuild our nation and support good jobs. From city blocks to state highways, the loss of these funds would have been felt throughout our state and economy. I'm committed to working with Republicans and Democrats, as well as our local and state leaders, to continue to invest in modern infrastructure to support our future needs. Ensuing that New Hampshire will still receive nearly $40 million in transportation funding is critical to projects in and around Manchester, said Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig. If this funding had been taken away, vital work on the I-293 Exit 6 and 7 reconfiguration projects, rehabilitation of the Amoskeag and Queen City bridges, improvements at I-293 Exit 1 and so many more would have been delayed or not have been able to be completed. Protecting this funding means that these important safety projects can go forward. As millions of Americans get ready to travel for Thanksgiving week, I want to reiterate my thanks to Congressman Pappas and all who advocated to ensure that New Hampshire received this funding that supports our residents, businesses, and visitors. The repeal of this rescission is something that we as a Department, our Governor, and our delegation have been advocating for and we are extremely appreciative that Congressman Pappas was able to work with his colleagues to make this repeal a reality so that we don't lose that vital federal funding to advance projects that are important to our communities, said New Hampshire Department of Transportation Commissioner Victoria Sheehan. At risk specifically were many of our municipal projects. If the rescission had taken effect, it is those projects that matter to communities, our intersection improvements, our sidewalk improvements, our connection to rail trails that would have been delayed. So we are extremely pleased to see this rescission repeal supported by the Congress and the Department is now ready to work to make sure that those dollars go to the projects that truly matter to those local regions. Section 1438 of the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act would have rescinded $7.6 billion in unobligated federal-aid highway contract authority on July 1, 2020. This provision was included as a budget offset in the last highway bill, although some have characterized it as a gimmick, the real-world impacts on states' budgets are drastic. Congressmen Pappas and Young wrote to House leadership to request that they address the upcoming rescission of $7.6 billion from the last highway bill as soon as possible. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, states have approximately $5.4 billion in unobligated contract authority. The funding rescission would have removed all of this authority with the shortfall coming out of next year's amounts. Across the board, states like New Hampshire would have lost precious dollars needed for investment in infrastructure projects. Every state would have lost millions in contract authority, with 37 states losing over $50 million. New Hampshire stood to lose nearly $40 million. AAA projects that this year will see the second-highest Thanksgiving travel volume in nearly two decades, underscoring the need for strong federal investment in our highways and why Congressman Pappas has been fighting to secure every available dollar for New Hampshire. Background: Text of Pappas/Young Letter to House leadership:https://pappas.house.gov/sites/pappas.house.gov/files/LTR_HighwayRescission10-15-2019FinalText.pdf Announcement of letter sent to House leadership: https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-pappas-helps-prevent-loss-76-billion-highway-funding-states House votes on CR including Pappas-led rescission repeal:https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-and-young-lead-bipartisan-letter-protect-states-loss-76-billion-highway ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-and-kuster-announce-more-than-300000-in-federal-funds-for-rural-development-projects-in-cheshire-and-coos-counties,"Shaheen, Hassan & Kuster Announce More than $300,000 in Federal Funds for Rural Development Projects in Cheshire and Coos Counties",2019-11-27,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan & Kuster Announce More than $300,000 in Federal Funds for Rural Development Projects in Cheshire and Coos Counties November 27, 2019 **Funding Will be Used in a Variety of Ways to Expand Broadband Access in Northern NH, Enhance First Responder Equipment and Resources & Help Low-income Homeowners Make Safety and Energy Efficiency Improvements** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced today with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded more than $300,000 in federal grants for a variety of projects throughout Cheshire and Coos Counties that invest in rural community development. Specifically, the Northern Forest Center in Concord will receive $188,547 to expand broadband access and digital literacy in Lancaster, New Hampshire. The funding will also benefit communities in Maine and Vermont that are underserved by broadband. The Town of Lancaster will also receive $17,500 to purchase a new vehicle for the Police Department to more safely and efficiently respond to emergencies in the White Mountains area. The Town of Northumberland will receive $50,000 for the Groveton ambulance department to purchase improved defibrillator technology that will help first responders better discern symptoms related to heart attacks or drug overdoses. The advanced equipment includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology, allowing the receiving hospital to monitor the patient's current medical status while in transport. The Southwestern Community Services in Keene will receive $60,000 to help low-income residents make safety and energy efficiency improvements to their homes. This grant is facilitated by the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), a federal program Shaheen has long-championed. These federal grants are important investments in New Hampshire's rural communities from expanding access to broadband, to investing in our first responders' equipment and resources to keep our residents safe, to helping our low-income families make critical improvements to lower their household costs this federal funding will go a long way, said Senator Shaheen. Securing the funding for programs like this that invest in the economic vitality and safety of our rural communities will always be top of my list during the appropriations process. These rural development grants will provide critical support for families, law enforcement, and businesses across our state, said Senator Hassan. I will continue to advocate strongly for projects like these that advance the health, safety, and economic prosperity of all Granite Staters, in all parts of our state. These grants will enable our rural New Hampshire communities to expand access to broadband, upgrade equipment utilized by law enforcement and emergency personnel, and make important repairs to disadvantaged homes, said Congresswoman Kuster. I will continue to work with my colleagues to secure funding for meaningful investments in our economy and the health and wellbeing of Granite Staters. A senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Shaheen has fought to secure funding that invests in rural development projects. In funding legislation recently passed by the Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen successfully secured $303.5 million for the Weatherization Assistance Program, an increase of $46.5 million over last year's funding levels. In the same funding legislation, Shaheen worked to establish the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) State Capacity Building Grant Program, to increase the region's capacity for business retention and expansion, increase access to high-speed broadband, and other critical infrastructure. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/landmark-animal-cruelty-bill-signed-into-law,Landmark Animal Cruelty Bill Signed Into Law,2019-11-26,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON President Trump yesterday signed into law landmark legislation cosponsored by the New Hampshire Congressional delegation to make animal cruelty a federal crime. The bipartisan Prevent Animal Cruelty and Torture (PACT) Act outlaws individuals from intentionally crushing, burning, drowning, suffocating, impaling or otherwise causing serious bodily injury to animals. While existing federal law prohibits animal fighting and the distribution of so-called animal crushing videos, there had been no federal ban against animal cruelty and torture. Callous cruelty towards animals is abhorrent, and it's time for the punishment to reflect the seriousness of the crime, Senator Jeanne Shaheen said. I'm glad to see this bipartisan legislation signed into law so that those who needlessly harm animals are held accountable. This new law is vital not only to help prevent the horrific crime of animal torture, but also because such cruelty against animals can often be a precursor to violent crimes against humans, Senator Maggie Hassan said. I'm grateful to my colleagues from both parties, and the President, for coming together to support this landmark measure. This legislation officially recognizes and punishes animal cruelty for the appalling crime it is, said Congresswoman Annie Kuster. In addition to protecting animals and holding people who abuse them accountable, the PACT Act will also keep Americans safe, as committing animal cruelty is often a warning sign that someone may commit crimes against people as well. I'm pleased my colleagues on both sides of the aisle came together in support of this much-needed legislation, and I'm glad it has been signed into law. Animals play a foundational role in the lives of Granite Staters and people across the country,said Congressman Chris Pappas.Whether they are used for service and support, security, farming and agriculture, or simply a beloved household pet, animals should never be subjected to torture and cruelty and the people who commit such crimes should be punished. I am pleased that President Trump signed this legislation that fills needed gaps in existing state laws and safeguards the wellbeing of animals across jurisdictions. The U.S. Senate passed the PACT Act unanimously on November 5th, 2019, and the U.S. House of Representatives passed it on October 23rd, 2019. Despite taking steps in 2010 to ban the sale of videos depicting animal crushing, Congress had failed to make the underlying act of crushing a federal crime. This meant that even when there is overwhelming evidence that torture is taking place federal law enforcement had been unable to protect animals from abuse or even arrest known abusers. The PACT Act is the first federal legislation of its kind and would ensure that individuals found guilty of torturing animals face felony charges, fines, and up to seven years in prison. The PACT Act is endorsed by the Humane Society of the United States, Animal Wellness Action, National Sheriffs' Association, Fraternal Order of Police, and the Association of Prosecuting Attorneys. Animal abuse can often be the precursor to other violent crimes; one study found that nearly 40 percent of animal abusers had committed violent crimes against humans. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/landmark-animal-cruelty-bill-signed-into-law,Landmark Animal Cruelty Bill Signed Into Law,2019-11-26,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Landmark Animal Cruelty Bill Signed Into Law November 26, 2019 Senators Shaheen, Hassan and Representatives Kuster, Pappas Cosponsored Bipartisan Prevent Animal Cruelty and Torture (PACT) Act (Washington, DC) President Trump yesterday signed into law landmark legislation cosponsored by the New Hampshire Congressional delegation to make animal cruelty a federal crime. The bipartisan Prevent Animal Cruelty and Torture (PACT) Act outlaws individuals from intentionally crushing, burning, drowning, suffocating, impaling or otherwise causing serious bodily injury to animals. While existing federal law prohibits animal fighting and the distribution of so-called animal crushing videos, there had been no federal ban against animal cruelty and torture. Callous cruelty towards animals is abhorrent, and it's time for the punishment to reflect the seriousness of the crime, said Senator Jeanne Shaheen. I'm glad to see this bipartisan legislation signed into law so that those who needlessly harm animals are held accountable. This new law is vital not only to help prevent the horrific crime of animal torture, but also because such cruelty against animals can often be a precursor to violent crimes against humans, said Senator Maggie Hassan. I'm grateful to my colleagues from both parties, and the President, for coming together to support this landmark measure. This legislation officially recognizes and punishes animal cruelty for the appalling crime it is, said Congresswoman Annie Kuster. In addition to protecting animals and holding people who abuse them accountable, the PACT Act will also keep Americans safe, as committing animal cruelty is often a warning sign that someone may commit crimes against people as well. I'm pleased my colleagues on both sides of the aisle came together in support of this much-needed legislation, and I'm glad it has been signed into law. Animals play a foundational role in the lives of Granite Staters and people across the country,said Congressman Chris Pappas.Whether they are used for service and support, security, farming and agriculture, or simply a beloved household pet, animals should never be subjected to torture and cruelty and the people who commit such crimes should be punished. I am pleased that President Trump signed this legislation that fills needed gaps in existing state laws and safeguards the wellbeing of animals across jurisdictions. The U.S. Senate passed the PACT Act unanimously on November 5th, 2019, and the U.S. House of Representatives passed it on October 23rd, 2019. Despite taking steps in 2010 to ban the sale of videos depicting animal crushing, Congress had failed to make the underlying act of crushing a federal crime. This meant that even when there is overwhelming evidence that torture is taking place federal law enforcement had been unable to protect animals from abuse or even arrest known abusers. The PACT Act is the first federal legislation of its kind and would ensure that individuals found guilty of torturing animals face felony charges, fines, and up to seven years in prison. The PACT Act is endorsed by the Humane Society of the United States, Animal Wellness Action, National Sheriffs' Association, Fraternal Order of Police, and the Association of Prosecuting Attorneys. Animal abuse can often be the precursor to other violent crimes; one study found that nearly 40 percent of animal abusers had committed violent crimes against humans. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-and-booker-introduce-legislation-to-help-nh_nj-finance-transportation-infrastructure-projects,Shaheen & Booker Introduce Legislation to Help NH & NJ Finance Transportation Infrastructure Projects,2019-11-26,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen & Booker Introduce Legislation to Help NH & NJ Finance Transportation Infrastructure Projects November 26, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced the Toll Credit Marketplace Act, legislation that would establish a program to help states increase resources for highway and transit projects. The bill directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish a marketplace for the sale and purchase of toll credits, which are accrued when states use toll revenues to invest in transportation projects that benefit the interstate system. While toll credits lack cash value, states can utilize these credits to cover the local match on federally funded highway and transit projects. However, given the limited amount of federal dollars that states can dedicate their toll credits to, many states find themselves left with more credits than they can use. According to the New Hampshire Department of Transportation, New Hampshire currently has a balance of more than $200 million in toll credits. This bill would allow states like New Hampshire and New Jersey to sell their excess toll credits to other states on this marketplace to bring in new revenue. These funds could be used for other transportation needs in these states. Shaheen first introduced this legislation in the 115th Congress. States like New Hampshire have many transportation infrastructure needs and an abundance of federal toll credits that can't be fully utilized. These credits represent dollars being left on the table that could be used to fix roads, bridges and transit infrastructure. My bill would give states an opportunity to sell these credits and invest in projects that will enhance our economy and contribute to public safety, said Shaheen. The President and members of Congress from both parties have spoken about the need to rehabilitate our aging infrastructure, but partisan gridlock has prevented legislation from advancing. My bill presents an innovative path forward for Congress to support states' investments in critical transportation infrastructure projects to make our roads safer and our economy stronger. New Jersey is in desperate need of a substantial increase in dedicated federal investment to rebuild our aging transportation infrastructure,said Booker. Allowing states like New Jersey to sell its available toll credits in order to raise revenue to invest in our roads, bridges, and rail systems is an innovative way to gather more resources while boosting transportation investment around the country. The New Hampshire Department of Transportation would welcome the opportunity to maximize the utility of toll credits through such a program and believe it would be a win win proposition, said William Cass, Assistant Commissioner and Chief Engineer for the New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT). Background: A state receives credits from the federal government when it uses toll revenues to fund projects that benefit the interstate system or interstate commerce. States can then use those toll credits as part of their required matching share on federally funded highway and mass transit projects. The credits are not cash and cannot be used for any purpose other than as state matching funds. Despite lacking a cash value, toll credits provide states with significant savings because they free up state money that would need to be used to meet the federal matching requirement. A number of states have successfully used toll credits to cover the local match on federal highway and transit projects. However, due to the limited amount of federal dollars that states can dedicate their toll credits to, many states find themselves left with more credits than they can use. In this case, surplus toll credits are left on the table, even while costly and necessary projects are waitlisted. Meanwhile, many states that do not use tolls miss out on this valuable investment tool unless they establish new, expensive tolling systems. In addition to creating a marketplace for states to buy and sell toll credits, the Toll Credit Marketplace would also: Require participating states to report on the transactions and the intended uses for the proceeds and toll credits; Direct the Secretary of Transportation to report to Congress on the progress of the marketplace each year after establishment and to follow up on the completion of the pilot program with a report outlining the viability of continuing the marketplace; and Direct the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study of the program's results after one year to evaluate the effectiveness of the toll credit marketplace. Shaheen has long fought to bring federal dollars back to New Hampshire to invest in critical transportation and infrastructure projects to fix Granite State roads, rail, bridges and ports. In June, Shaheen reintroduced legislation, theStrengthen and Fortify Existing (SAFE) Bridges Act to begin to address the more than 47,000 structurally deficient bridges across the country. A senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen has historically secured federal funding for the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant program formerly known as the TIGER Grant program. In governmentfunding legislation that recently passed the Senate, Shaheen helped boost funding for the BUILD Grant program by $100 million, totaling $1 billion for fiscal year (FY) 2020.Earlier this month, Shaheen announced a $12 million BUILD grant for a NHDOT bridge project on the Connecticut River. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-cosponsors-legislation-to-transition-us-to-a-100-percent-clean,Kuster Cosponsors Legislation to Transition U.S. to a 100 Percent Clean Energy Economy,2019-11-25,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Last week, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) joined her colleagues to co-sponsor the 100% Clean Economy Act of 2019, which would set a nationwide goal of achieving a 100 percent clean energy economy by 2050, meaning net-zero climate pollution across all sectors of our nation's economy. Specifically, the legislation directs federal agencies to use all existing authorities to put the United States on a path toward meeting a 100 percent clean energy economy while remaining technology neutral. Building a clean energy economy is a critical part of combating climate change, which is one of the most daunting challenges of our time, said Rep. Kuster. This legislation will put our country on the path towards a sustainable future, improve public health, and strengthen our economy while creating green jobs. The time to act on climate change is now, and I'm pleased to help introduce this measure that will usher in much-needed change. The legislation aims to: Improve public health, especially for low-income and rural communities, communities of color, Tribal communities, and other vulnerable populations; Enhance job creation and ensure an equitable transition for workers in industries and communities affected by changes in the economy; Provide benefits for consumers, small businesses, and rural communities; and Prepare communities for the impacts and risks of climate change. Congresswoman Kuster joined the Energy and Commerce Committee in January, and is a member of the Subcommittee on Energy. She is alsoaco-sponsor of theClimate Action Now Act, which would require the Trump Administration to remain in the Paris Climate Accord and to establish a plan for how the United States will meet its commitment to reduce pollution. Kuster has been vocal about the need to address climate change and has pushed back against thedecision by President Trump to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accord. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bipartisan-solutions-to-the-opioid-epidemic,Bipartisan solutions to the opioid epidemic,2019-11-22,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dear Friend, Finding Bipartisan Solutions to Curb the Opioid Epidemic I was pleased to holda roundtable discussion with my Bipartisan Opioid Task Force co-chair Rep. Fitzpatrick on Tuesday as we sat down with the top White House official for drug policy, Office of National Drug Control Policy Director Jim Carroll; N.H. Department of Corrections Commissioner Helen Hanks, and administration and law enforcement officials. We discussed our criminal justice system and how Congress and law enforcement can work together to curb the opioid epidemic in Granite State communities. Discussions like this are crucial to creating commonsense policy solutions that will help our communities thrive. I look forward to our task force's continued work to fight this crisis. You can watch our full discussion here. At the Opioid Task Force Roundtable. Watch here. Removing Barriers to Substance Use Disorder Treatment Yesterday, I reintroduced the Road to Recovery Act with Representative Brian Fitzpatrick, my co-chair on the Bipartisan Opioid Task Force, and Representative Stephanie Murphy. It is unacceptable that some of our most vulnerable Americans including children, people with disabilities and those with limited incomes who are enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP are not able to access the substance use disorder treatment they need. This legislation aims to remove the barriers that are in place and help ensure those who are struggling with addiction have access to the care they need, benefiting the health of our communities and the economic wellbeing of our state. Protecting New Hampshire Communities from PFAS Chemicals On Wednesday, my legislation, the Protecting Communities from New PFAS Act, passed in the House Energy and Commerce Committee. The wellbeing of Granite Staters and families nationwide is at risk due to the proliferation of PFAS chemicals. This legislation is an important step towards reducing the number of PFAS chemicals entering our environment and ensuring people in New Hampshire and across the country have access to clean, safe drinking water. I'm pleased the committee also passed legislation that will help protect communities from gas explosions like the September 2018 Merrimack Valley tragedy just across our border. This comprehensive bill advances numerous pipeline safety measures and reinstitutes important gas leak prevention provisions that will improve air quality and public health. Speaking in support of my PFAS Legislation. Watch here. Building a Clean Energy Economy Yesterday, I joined my colleagues to co-sponsor the 100% Clean Energy Economy Act of 2019, which would set a nationwide goal of achieving a 100 percent clean energy economy by 2050. Building a clean energy economy is a critical part of combating climate change, which is one of the most daunting challenges of our time. This legislation will put our country on the path towards a sustainable future, improve public health, and strengthen our economy while creating green jobs. The time to act on climate change is now, and I'm pleased to help introduce this measure that will usher in much-needed change. Raising Pay for Our Troops On Tuesday, I voted in favor of a continuing resolution (CR) introduced by House Democrats to extend government funding through December 20th. The House has passed nearly all our FY 2020 appropriations bills and it's unacceptable that Mitch McConnell and Senate Republicans have failed to act on our funding measures. While the process is clearly broken, I am encouraged that we were able to make good on the promise to our men and women in uniform by including a pay raise for those who defend our nation. We also prevented a devastating cut to highway funding which is critical to maintaining and improving our aging infrastructure. I urge the Senate to act on this legislation swiftly. Protecting Employees at EPA I joined Energy & Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone and Representative Paul D. Tonko in leading a bipartisan group of 228 Members of Congress calling on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to negotiate in good faith with union representatives at the EPA during the ongoing labor dispute. In our letter, we raised concerns about reports of unfair labor practices and other troubling efforts to undermine career civil servants and union representatives. My colleagues and I strongly urge EPA's management to return to the bargaining table with union representatives, and we request timely and continuous updates regarding ongoing negotiations. Improving Maternal Health Care in Rural Communities I was proud to kick off Rural Health Day yesterday by voicing my support for the Maternal Health Quality Improvement Act. Far too often, mothers and moms-to-be in rural communities across New Hampshire struggle to access the care they need to raise a healthy family. This bill would help ease this burden by improving maternal health care delivery for families across rural America. I was pleased to join my colleagues to pass this vital legislation through the Energy and Commerce Committee this week in an important step toward improving the lives of Granite State parents and parents nationwide. Speaking in favor of the Maternal Health Quality Improvement Act. Watch here. Here for You Please continue to reach out to my office with any questions, concerns or thoughts you want to share with me - I love hearing from you! Thank you for everything you do to make New Hampshire such a wonderful place to call home. Have a great weekend! Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/in-salem-kuster-discusses-importance-of-export-import-bank,"In Salem, Kuster Discusses Importance of Export-Import Bank",2019-11-22,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Salem, NH Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) visited Foxx Life Sciences in Salem to tour the space and discuss with company leadership the importance of the Export Import Bank (Ex-Im). Ex-Im provides financing support to New Hampshire small businesses so they can sell their goods in overseas markets. Earlier this month, Kuster voted in favor of House-passed bipartisan legislation to reauthorize Ex-Im and raise the annual limit on outstanding export financing.In the month of October, Ex-Im financed $342,538.64 in exports from New Hampshire's Second Congressional District. It's wonderful to be at Foxx Life Sciences and see how businesses in New Hampshire are engaging with our global marketplace and benefiting from Ex-Im, said Rep. Kuster. Ex-Im enables companies to reach customers abroad and foster economic growth in their communities, and it is critical that Congress remove politics from the equation when it comes toEx-Im's reauthorization. I look forward to sharing the insights I've heard today with my colleagues as we continue our efforts to expand economic opportunity for all. Foxx Life Sciences would like to thank Congresswoman Kuster for taking interest in one of New Hampshire's small business success stories and engaging with us to assist the company's continued success, said Tom Taylor, President and CEO of Foxx Life Sciences. The Ex-Im program is invaluable to Foxx Life Sciences as it allows us to have access to short-term working capital that would otherwise be unavailable. These funds are essential for growing the New Hampshire economy and more importantly New Hampshire jobs. The House-passed legislation Kuster voted on earlier this month to reauthorize Ex-Im would reauthorize the bank for ten years and raise the annual limit on outstanding export financing from $135 billion to $175 billion by fiscal year 2026. The bill also establishes alternative procedures to ensure the agency can continue to approve transactions in the absence of a quorum. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-fitzpatrick-introduce-bipartisan-extend-act,"Kuster, Fitzpatrick Introduce Bipartisan Extend Act",2019-11-22,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONThis week, Representatives Annie Kuster (D-NH) and Fitzpatrick (R-PA), the Co-Chairs of the Bipartisan Opioid Taskforce, introduced the Extend Act a bipartisan bill that will help the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) continue to treat fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I substances. Currently this provision is set to expire in February of 2020. This legislation will extend that deadline until February of 2022. At this week's Bipartisan Opioid Taskforce Roundtable, DEA cited that their top legislative priority was extending the February 2020 deadline. Synthetic opioids are extremely potent and new formulations continue to be more and more lethal fentanyl and other illicit compounds have caused substantial harm in communities in New Hampshire and across the country, said Rep. Kuster. This legislation will help ensure the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has the tools it needs to address the increasing prevalence of dangerous synthetics that pose a threat to public health and safety. I'm proud to join my colleagues to introduce this commonsense bill and I will continue working to secure critical resources and funding to help combat the opioid epidemic. Fentanyl is a manufactured opioid which, especially in its illicit versions is extremely dangerous and illegal imports of these synthetic opioids has spiked in the past three years. Our nation's drug epidemic is a complicated issue and our response must be multi-faceted, said Rep. Fitzpatrick. The DEA needs to keep fighting these substances on the frontlines and the Extend Act will maintain a valuable tool for them to utilize. According to the DEA, fentanyl-related substances are 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times stronger than heroin, making it harder to detect since it can be distributed in smaller amounts. In February 2018, the DEA placed all fentanyl-related substances under Schedule I on a temporary basis for a two-year period. This action includes all fentanyl analogues as part of that class of drugs. Fentanyl analogues have additions or substitutions to the core molecule as described under the DEA temporary scheduling of fentanyl-related substances. Due to the large number of possible variations to the fentanyl molecule, there is a wide variance in potency. The bipartisan Extend Act would provide an additional 2 years for Congress and our federal agencies to work together to come up with a solution that permanently prevents fentanyl-like substances from falling out of law enforcement's control. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shaheen-hassan-and-kuster-announce-3-million-in-federal-funding-for,"Shaheen, Hassan and Kuster Announce $3 Million in Federal Funding for Claremont Municipal Airport",2019-11-22,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02), that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded Claremont Municipal airport a $3 million federal grant. The federal funding was awarded under the agency's Airport Improvement Program (AIP). Shaheen helped craft the omnibus funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2019 that included an additional $500 million for AIP projects. While a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, Senator Hassan helped advance the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, which included important New Hampshire priorities. The law included $3.35 billion in mandatory funding for AIP, and instructs the FAA to prioritize small or medium-sized airports located outside of metropolitan areas, like Claremont Municipal, for airport improvement funding. New Hampshire's regional airports serve as economic and transportation hubs for surrounding communities, which is why federal grants like this are useful tools that can help our cities and towns make necessary improvements to enhance our local infrastructure system, said Senator Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. This runway reconstruction project is an important investment in the economic development, safety and efficiency of Claremont Municipal Airport. Ensuring New Hampshire infrastructure projects like this have the federal assistance they need will always be a top priority for me in the Senate. This $3 million runway reconstruction grant is vital to the future of Claremont Municipal Airport, which is an important part of the local economy, Senator Hassan said. I will continue fighting to ensure that other important projects across New Hampshire receive the federal funding that is necessary to strengthen and modernize our state's transportation infrastructure. This funding for Claremont Municipal Airport will help improve the airport's efficiency and invest in the economic vitality of the Claremont region and our entire state, said Kuster. I'm excited to help announce this grant and I will continue working to secure the funding and resources needed to upgrade New Hampshire's infrastructure and strengthen our communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-pappas-and-rose-introduce-legislation-protect-veterans-va,Representatives Pappas and Rose Introduce Legislation to Protect Veterans from VA Errors,2019-11-22,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), who serves as the Chair of Oversight and Investigations for the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, introduced legislation with Congressman Max Rose (NY-11), a combat veteran, to reform the VA's debt collection process. The introduction of this bill follows an alarming hearing revealing the gross inefficiencies in the VA and the financial hardship such issues have created for veterans. This hearing found the VA overpayment system generated and then collected $1.6 billion in debt from veterans in the last fiscal year. These overpayments are a result of mistakes in disability payouts, changes in eligibility, or simple accounting errors which have resulted in financial difficulties for hundreds of thousands of veterans, especially for those living on fixed incomes. The Stopping Harm and Implementing Enhanced Lead-time for Debts for Veterans Act, or SHIELD for Veterans Act seeks to remedy these alarming findings. Many veterans rely on their earned benefits to make ends meet,said Chairman Pappas. It is unacceptable that the VA's mistakes or inefficiencies are hurting the men and women they are supposed to serve. I am proud to introduce the SHIELD for Veterans Act which takes critical steps to reform the VA and ensure we are making good on the promises we have made to our veterans. When the VA fails, veterans shouldn't be the ones having to pick up the tab and pay lawyers to fight for what they're owed, said Rose, an Army combat veteran. I'm proud that we've had individual successes on behalf of constituents who have experienced this, but the fact is it shouldn't take a Member of Congress stepping in to make this right. It's time we fix this once and for all. The SHIELD for Veterans Act would: Prevent VA from collecting any overpayment that was a result of a delay in processing by VA; Require that VA provide notice of any overpayment and its plan to recollect such payment at least 90 days in advance of beginning collection; Require VA to notify veterans of their right to dispute overpayment or to request a waiver of the debt; Prohibit VA from charging interest or administrative costs on debts relating to disability compensation, pensions, or educational assistance; Require VA to submit a report to Congress by May 2020 detailing its plan to improve the notification of overpayments and communication with veterans who receive overpayment. Immediately following the September hearing, Congressmen Pappas and Rose also sent a letter to the VA calling on them to take immediate action to change the VA overpayment system. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/senators-shaheen-collins-announce-nearly-158-million-contract-awarded-to-modernize-dry-dock-1-at-portsmouth-naval-shipyard,"Senators Shaheen, Collins Announce Nearly $158 Million Contract Awarded to Modernize Dry Dock #1 at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard",2019-11-22,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senators Shaheen, Collins Announce Nearly $158 Million Contract Awarded to Modernize Dry Dock #1 at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard November 22, 2019 Washington, D.C.U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) announced that a $157,949,610 contract was awarded to Cianbro Corp. of Pittsfield, Maine, for construction of a super flood basin and extending portal crane rails for Dry Dock #1 at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY). As members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senators Shaheen and Collins secured this funding in the fiscal year 2019 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. It's very encouraging to see this project that is so important to our national security moving forward, especially since this funding was once under threat from the administration, said Senator Shaheen. I've fought tirelessly to secure and protect these resources as a member of both the Appropriations and Armed Services committees. Increasing dry dock capacity helps ensure that the Shipyard remains indispensable to the maintenance of our submarine fleet long into the future and I look forward to seeing this project completed. As a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, I championed this important investment at PNSY, which will begin the process of modernizing Dry Dock #1 and allow the shipyard to meet the future needs of our Navy, said Senator Collins. PNSY is the gold standard for all public shipyards, and this project will help the highly skilled employees continue to carry out their mission of ensuring that our submarines are always ready to answer the call of duty. The project will renovate Dry Dock #1 by constructing a superflood basin at the dry dock entrance. The superflood basin, similar to a navigational lock, will enable Los Angeles-class and Virginia-class submarines to dock without the use of buoyancy assist tanks. Currently, Dry Dock #1 can only accommodate Los Angeles-class submarines, which means it will be rendered obsolete when LA-class submarines are removed from service in the 2030s. Additionally, without this project, Dry Dock #1 would not be able to support operations beyond 2021 due to the decertification of the current air filled buoyancy assist system, which is more than 40 years old. The project also includes a separately authorized project to construct a new portal crane rail and modernizes the existing one to support a new high-capacity portal crane for reactor servicing requirements at Dry Dock #1. The Navy's Los Angeles-class Service Life Extension Program requires a new high-capacity portal crane with crane rail infrastructure to provide heavy-lift access to the Dry Dock #1 reactor servicing complex, utility upgrades and modifications, and railroad modifications to perform refueling of Los-Angeles-class submarines. Senators Shaheen and Collins worked to secure funding for this project in the fiscal year 2019 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill that was signed into law last year.Work is expected to be completed by March 2022. Senator Shaheen, also a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, hasfought tirelessly to secure fundingfor the Shipyard. She was also instrumental in defending Shipyard construction projects against the President's threats to divert potential Shipyard funding towards the border wall.Since the President first announced his emergency declaration and projects at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard were initially listed as potential targets to lose funding, including the Paint, Blast and Rubber facility, Senator Shaheen has successfully defended the funding secured by Congress.Today, Shaheenalong with Senators Hassan and Collinswill attend the groundbreaking for the new Paint, Blast and Rubber facility. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-hassan-and-kuster-announce-3-million-in-federal-funding-for-claremont-municipal-airport,"Shaheen, Hassan and Kuster Announce $3 Million in Federal Funding for Claremont Municipal Airport",2019-11-22,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Hassan and Kuster Announce $3 Million in Federal Funding for Claremont Municipal Airport November 22, 2019 (Washington, DC) Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02), that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded Claremont Municipal airport a $3 million federal grant. The federal funding was awarded under the agency's Airport Improvement Program (AIP). Shaheen helped craft the omnibus funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2019 that included an additional $500 million for AIP projects. While a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, Senator Hassan helped advance the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, which included important New Hampshire priorities. The law included $3.35 billion in mandatory funding for AIP, and instructs the FAA to prioritize small or medium-sized airports located outside of metropolitan areas, like Claremont Municipal, for airport improvement funding. New Hampshire's regional airports serve as economic and transportation hubs for surrounding communities, which is why federal grants like this are useful tools that can help our cities and towns make necessary improvements to enhance our local infrastructure system, said Senator Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. This runway reconstruction project is an important investment in the economic development, safety and efficiency of Claremont Municipal Airport. Ensuring New Hampshire infrastructure projects like this have the federal assistance they need will always be a top priority for me in the Senate. This $3 million runway reconstruction grant is vital to the future of Claremont Municipal Airport, which is an important part of the local economy, Senator Hassan said. I will continue fighting to ensure that other important projects across New Hampshire receive the federal funding that is necessary to strengthen and modernize our state's transportation infrastructure. This funding for Claremont Municipal Airport will help improve the airport's efficiency and invest in the economic vitality of the Claremont region and our entire state, said Kuster. I'm excited to help announce this grant and I will continue working to secure the funding and resources needed to upgrade New Hampshire's infrastructure and strengthen our communities. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-introduces-legislation-to-expand-veterans-access-to-non-opioid-alternative-to-chronic-pain-treatment,Shaheen Introduces Legislation to Expand Veteran’s Access to Non-Opioid Alternative to Chronic Pain Treatment,2019-11-22,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen Introduces Legislation to Expand Veteran's Access to Non-Opioid Alternative to Chronic Pain Treatment November 22, 2019 (Washington, DC) Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Armed Services Committee and a leader in the Senate on efforts to respond to the substance misuse epidemic, introduced the Acupuncture for our Heroes Act to expand access to acupuncturist services for veterans enrolled in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system. According to a report by the Veterans Health Administration, 80 percent of VA providers identified acupuncture as one of the top three services most often requested by veterans. Currently, only 60 percent of VA health centers provide often limited acupuncture services on site, and 14 percent do not provide acupuncture services at all. We need to make sure alternatives to opioids are being made available when it comes to pain treatment, particularly for our veterans, many of whom suffer from chronic pain because of their service, said Shaheen. Acupuncture has proven to be an effective pain treatment for many patients and is in high demand by veterans. However, access to acupuncture through the VA remains limited in many areas of the country, including in New Hampshire. This bill would make sure veterans have increased access to this treatment option, and avoid the risks associated with opioid painkillers. This is a common sense proposal that improves the health care options available to our heroes who put everything on the line to defend our country. Specifically, the Acupuncture for Our Heroes Act would: Establish a program to expand acupuncturist services to veterans enrolled in the VA health care system; Direct the VA Secretary to carry out the program in at least one facility of the VA in each Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN), of which there are 23; If the VISN includes a state without a full-service VA medical facility, then the VA Secretary is directed to carry out the program in that state. Ensure veterans could seek acupuncture services from licensed acupuncturists to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, cancer pain, joint pain, stress management, mental health conditions, substance abuse and symptoms relating to traumatic brain injury and PTSD; Require the VA to provide materials to healthcare providers that explain the benefits of acupuncture services and establishes an Acupuncture Advisory Committee at the VA; and Instruct the committee to review and evaluate the ability of veterans to access acupuncturists at VA facilities. Senator Shaheenhas fought tirelessly to ensure that Granite State communities have the resources they needto battle the substance use disorder epidemic. She helped negotiate the bipartisan agreement in 2018 that outlined the two years of opioid response spending totaling $6 billion to respond to the opioid crisis, which included a critical $142 million set-aside for hardest-hit states like New Hampshire. Shaheen recently unveiled sweeping new substance use disorder legislation, theTurn the Tide Act, to help tackle the substance use epidemic and provide resources for Granite Staters struggling with substance misuse. TheTurn the Tide Actprovides $63 billion in funding over ten yearsto deliver flexible treatment funding to providers, establish proven prevention programs and address the substantial workforce challengesin the treatment field. Yesterday, Senator Shaheen introduced bipartisan legislation with Senator Martha McSally (R-AZ) to provide female U.S. servicemembers and veterans with improved breast screening options. Earlier this year, the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act bipartisan legislation backed by Shaheen to ensure Blue Water Navy veterans get the disability and health care benefits they deserve as a result of exposure to Agent Orange was signed into law. The full text of the legislation is available here. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-mcsally-introduce-bill-to-improve-breast-cancer-screening-options-for-us-service-members-and-their-families,"Shaheen, McSally Introduce Bill to Improve Breast Cancer Screening Options for U.S. Service members and their Families",2019-11-22,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, McSally Introduce Bill to Improve Breast Cancer Screening Options for U.S. Service members and their Families November 22, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Martha McSally (R-AZ), both members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, introduced bipartisan legislation to provide female U.S. service members and their families with improved breast cancer screenings. Representative Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. TheBetter and Robust Screening Today Actrequires the Department of Defense (DoD) to cover the most effective breast cancer screening option: Digital Breast Tomosynthesis, also known as DBT or 3D mammography. DBT is already covered by the Department of Veterans Affairs and almost all other traditional health care plans. Currently,DoD only covers DBT as a secondary option, after there is an issue with the first, traditional scan. Expanding access to the latest advances in preventive cancer screenings could mean the difference between life and death for some Americans. Improving this access for our service members is a no brainer and I'm proud to stand with Senator McSally in this bipartisan effort,said Shaheen. This legislation would provide an important fix to our health care system by requiring the Department of Defense to cover 3D mammography as an option for preventive breast cancer screening. 3D mammography can provide superior detection of breast cancer, which is critical to beating this devastating disease. This bill is an important way to help ensure our servicewomen have coverage to seek the preventive screenings they need. ""Servicemembers and their families sacrifice so much and deserve the best health care and technology available,said McSally.There is simply no good reason to deny DBT screening, the latest breast cancer imaging technology, to Tricare patients. As a female veteran myself, I am proud to lead thisbicameral, bipartisan bill to expand Tricare coverage for our heroes and their families."" The number of women in the Armed Forces continues to grow at a rapid pace. In 1973, at the end of the draft, women represented a mere 2 percent of the enlisted forces and 8 percent of the officer corps. Today, those numbers have significantly increased to 16 percent and 18 percent respectively. U.S. Senators Kyrsten Sinema(D-AZ), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN),Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV),Susan Collins (R-ME),Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Kamala D. Harris (D-CA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) are co-sponsors of the bill. Bill text of theBetter and Robust Screening Today Act is available here. OnSeptember 30th, Shaheen and McSally led a bipartisan letter urging DoD to expand and improve breast cancer screening coverage options for female service members and their families. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-rubio-urge-swift-committee-action-on-their-bipartisan-tsp-act,"Shaheen, Rubio Urge Swift Committee Action on their Bipartisan TSP Act",2019-11-22,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Rubio Urge Swift Committee Action on their Bipartisan TSP Act November 22, 2019 (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) urged Ron Johnson (R-WI) and Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, to expediently consider and approve their bipartisan Taxpayers and Savers Protection (TSP) Act. The TSP Act would prevent the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB) from moving forward next year on its short-sighted and foolish decision to steer federal retirement savings to opaque Chinese firms engaged in human rights abuses and a wide range of military-related activities. The TSP Act would ensure that the retirement savings of federal employees and members of the Armed Forces are not used to fund the Chinese government and Communist Party's efforts to undermine U.S. economic and national security. While the FRTIB may not see itself as a policymaking institution, Congress most certainly is. Taking up the TSP Act will allow lawmakers to protect federal employees from investing their hard-earned retirement savings in AVIC's AviChina Industry & Technology, Hikvision, ZTE, and other Chinese companies that are engaged in activities counter to American interests, the Senators wrote. The full text of the letter is available here. Senators Shaheen and Rubio haveled the chargein Congress urging the TSP board to reverse its decision that would steer federal retirement savings to China. Theyfirst called on the board to change coursein August andagain in Octoberahead of a planned board meeting on the dangerous policy. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-bill-to-block-new-pfas-chemicals-passes-energy-and-commerce,Kuster Bill to Block New PFAS Chemicals Passes Energy and Commerce Committee,2019-11-21,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"Watch Rep. Kuster speaking in support of her PFAS legislation HERE. Watch Rep. Kuster speaking in support of the SAFER Pipelines Act HERE. Washington, DC Last night, Rep. Annie Kuster's (NH-02) legislation, the Protecting Communities from New PFAS Act, passed in the House Energy and Commerce Committee. This legislation would prevent new PFAS chemicals from being approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and help to ensure Granite Staters have access to clean water. The bill would close the door on new PFAS chemicals from entering the public and commercial markets. In September, Kuster spoke on the House floor to call on Congress to address PFAS proliferation in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2019 (NDAA). The wellbeing of Granite Staters and families nationwide is at risk due to the proliferation of PFAS chemicals, said Kuster, member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the Bipartisan PFAS Task Force. We need to turn off the tap of these forever chemicals that pose a significant danger to the health of American families. This legislation is an important step towards reducing the number of PFAS chemicals entering our environment and ensuring people in New Hampshire and across the country have access to clean, safe drinking water. I'm pleased the committee also passed legislation that will help protect communities from gas explosions like the September 2018 Merrimack Valley tragedy just across our border, said Kuster. This comprehensive bill advances numerous pipeline safety measures and reinstitutes important gas leak prevention provisions that will improve air quality and public health. The Committee also advanced the SAFER Pipelines Act and the Maternal Health Quality Improvement Act, both of which were backed by Kuster in committee. The SAFER Pipelines Act would reauthorize the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) through 2023 and would require natural gas pipeline operators to install automatic or remote-controlled shutoff valves to prevent explosions in high-risk areas. The bill also includes provisions to reduce gas leaks and pollution that are harmful to public health. The Maternal Health Quality Improvement Act would amend the Public Health Service Act to help ensure that pregnant women and new mothers can access the care they need to stay healthy and raise happy families. Kuster joined the Energy and Commerce Committee in January, where she has had an opportunity to lead the effort to pass legislation to improve health care, lower prescription drug prices, and address PFAS contamination. In August, she joined with Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) toconvene Granite Staterswhose communities have been affected by PFAS exposure and heard from experts on how to best move forward in addressing the proliferation of these chemicals in New Hampshire. Kusterquestioned Susan Bodine, the Assistant Administrator for EPA's Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance (OECA) about the EPA's PFAS action planand expressed her concern about the EPA's response to this crisis. She has joined with the New Hampshire delegation to call for more research into the connectionbetween pediatric cancer and PFAS exposure. Last year's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) increased funding for thestudy of PFAS as requested by Kuster. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-fitzpatrick-murphy-reintroduce-bipartisan-road-to-recovery-act,"Kuster, Fitzpatrick, Murphy Reintroduce Bipartisan Road to Recovery Act",2019-11-21,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONToday, Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02), Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), the Co-Chairs of the Bipartisan Opioid Taskforce, and Rep. Stephanie Murphy (FL-07) re-introduced the Road to Recovery Act bipartisan legislation that would remove barriers to substance use disorder treatment services under Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). This bill will specifically end Medicaid's Institutions for Mental Disease (IMD) exclusion for substance use disorder and helps to increase access for inpatient treatment for Medicaid and CHIP enrollees. The IMD exclusion is a long-standing policy that prohibits the federal Medicaid matching funds to states for services rendered to Medicaid-eligible individuals who are patients for SUD and mental health treatment. Some states including Pennsylvania - have used an in lieu of services provision allowing for inpatient treatment, but with limitations on patient population, facility size, and length of stay. These limitations disproportionately affect Medicaid beneficiaries. It is unacceptable that some of our most vulnerable Americans including children, people with disabilities and those with limited incomes who are enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP are not able to access the substance use disorder treatment they need, said Rep. Kuster, the founder and co-chair of the Bipartisan Opioid Task Force. This legislation aims to remove the barriers that are in place and help ensure those who are struggling with addiction have access to the care they need, benefiting the health of our communities and the economic wellbeing of our state. I'm pleased to introduce this much-needed, bipartisan measure alongside my colleagues and I'll continue my efforts to combat the substance use epidemic plaguing communities across the country. I am proud to re-introduce the Road to Recovery Act with Reps. Kuster and Murphy. This bipartisan, commonsense legislation would remove the IMD exclusion for substance use disorder and help states expand access to inpatient addiction services for Medicaid enrollees in a fiscally responsible manner while not intruding on a state's flexibility to implement care. The IMD exclusion' blocks access for the most vulnerable in our society, said Rep. Fitzpatrick. Pennsylvania has been overwhelmed by the opioid epidemic, and an important part of combatting this epidemic is by ensuring that more Americans can receive life-saving care. Our constituents need treatment for addiction, and they need it now. ""Opioids have destroyed lives, families and communities throughout central Florida and this country,"" said Rep. Murphy. ""Congress must pursue bipartisan solutions to end the opioid epidemic, which is why I'm proud to partner with Reps. Fitzpatrick and Kuster to introduce legislation to help ensure that men and women addicted to opioids can obtain the high-quality treatment they need and deserve."" The opioid crisis is responsible for 67,000 overdose deaths in the United States in 2018. This bill makes the road to recovery more accessible through clearing the pathway to treatment services. According the US Department of Health and Human Services, substance abuse costs the country over $600 billion annually and based on conservative estimates, each dollar invested in addiction treatment programs yields a return of between $4 and $7 in reduced drug-related crime, criminal justice costs, and theft. When the return on investment is applied to healthcare costs, the total savings can exceed a ratio of 12:1. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-kuster-trone-thompson-and-guthrie-introduce-bipartisan-legislation,"Reps. Kuster, Trone, Thompson, and Guthrie Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Mothers and their Infants Affected by the Opioid Epidemic",2019-11-21,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Representatives Annie Kuster (D-NH), David Trone (D-MD), Glenn GT Thompson (R-PA), and Brett Guthrie (R-KY) introduced the bipartisan Supporting Healthy Outcomes for Mothers and Infants Act of 2019 to support mothers and their infants who are born with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). This legislation improves the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to better respond to the devastating effect the opioid epidemic has had on women and newborns. Since 2002, the incidence of NAS, which includes a number of symptoms babies experience when they undergo withdrawal from opioids in the days after birth, increased five-fold. As the opioid epidemic continues to devastate communities across New Hampshire and our nation, there has never been a greater need to give families the tools they need to move past substance use disorder and lead healthy lives, said Rep. Kuster (D-NH). I am proud to help introduce this bipartisan legislation to help mothers and children affected by opioid addiction work toward a bright and healthy future. I look forward to the Bipartisan Opioid Task Force's continued work to help communities affected by this crisis succeed. The most tragic victims of the opioid epidemic are the newborn babies who go through withdrawal days after birth, said Rep. Trone, founder of the Freshmen Working Group on Addiction. This legislation supports our most vulnerable population by providing evidence-based support and education to mothers and caregivers.The bill will also help tackle the stigma that is associated with addiction. I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for coming together to support those impacted by the opioid epidemic. The opioid epidemic does not discriminate, it impacts every community and expectant mothers and children are particularly vulnerable, said Rep. Glenn GT Thompson (R-PA). I'm proud to support the bipartisan Supporting Healthy Mothers and Infants Act, which will help destigmatize addiction, rightfully treating it as an illness, and creates more opportunities for education and prevention. Sadly, every fifteen minutes, a baby is born in the United States suffering from opioid withdrawal, and my home state of Kentucky has been hit especially hard by our nation's ongoing opioid crisis, said Rep. Guthrie (R-KY). We need to do all we can to help pregnant women and new moms who are at risk for substance use disorders and babies affected by prenatal substance exposure or neonatal abstinence syndrome. I was proud to join Reps. Trone, Thompson, and Kuster to introduce the Supporting Healthy Mothers and Infants Act of 2019. The opioid epidemic is a public health emergency. Affected WIC families and WIC clinic staff know this first hand, said Rev. Douglas Greenaway, President and CEO of the National WIC Association (NWA). Opioid use during pregnancy can inhibit infant growth, with some infants demonstrating symptoms of withdrawal upon birth. WIC clinics screen for signs of withdrawal and counsel participants on appropriate breastfeeding and nutrition strategies to mitigate the effects of opioid use on infant development. They work to support pregnant women and new mothers with appropriate education and referrals. This bipartisan legislation is an important step in strengthening WIC's work to meet the unique nutritional needs of families affected by opioid use. Specifically, the Supporting Healthy Outcomes for Mothers and Infants Act of 2019 : Removes stigmatizing language in the Child Nutrition Act related to substance use disorder Instructs the Secretary of Health and Human Services and Secretary of Agriculture to collaborate in the development of evidence-based nutrition education materials for WIC-eligible pregnant women and caregivers to infants impacted by NAS Ensures WIC conducts outreach to those who may be eligible for the program and are impacted by substance use disorder Makes any nutrition education and training materials developed available to state agencies through an online clearinghouse You can read the text of the bill here. You can read more about the bill here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-condemns-hhs-rule-allowing-foster-care-and-adoption-discrimination,Pappas Condemns HHS Rule Allowing Foster Care and Adoption Discrimination,2019-11-21,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington D.C. Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH), who serves as a Co-Chair of the Equality Caucus, issued the following statement after the Department of Health and Human Services published its rule allowing taxpayer-funded foster care and adoption agencies to discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, and marital status. The Trump Administration's decision to allow taxpayer-funded discrimination against loving parents because of who they are or how they identify is a backward policy founded on ignorance and hate,said Congressman Pappas.The Department of Health and Human Services should remain focused on placing kids in safe, loving homes and not on enacting discriminatory policies. HHS administers more than $500 billion in grants for foster care, Head Start, HIV prevention, community health care centers, and energy assistance. This ruling strips protections previously put in place to ensure no one gets turned away, denied services, or treated differently based on their sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-mcsally-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-veteran-survivors-of-domestic-and-sexual-violence,"Shaheen, McSally Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Veteran Survivors of Domestic & Sexual Violence",2019-11-21,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, McSally Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Veteran Survivors of Domestic & Sexual Violence November 21, 2019 **Bipartisan billwould help ensure no veteran attempting to leave an abusive situation is turned away for assistance due to a lack of resources** **Legislation would improve coordination between the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and State Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Centers** (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Martha McSally (R-AZ), both members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, reintroduced legislation today to improve services for veterans experiencing domestic or sexual violence. The Senators' bill the Supporting Veteran Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence Act would connect veterans exposed to domestic or sexual violence with resources from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and improve coordination between the VA and local domestic violence and sexual assault crisis centers. Connecting survivors of domestic or sexual violence with VA resources not only serves veterans, but also helps preserve limited crisis center and shelter resources. Shaheen first introduced this legislation in the 114thCongress. According to the VA, approximately one third of women veterans experience intimate partner violence a type of domestic violence at some point in their lifetime. Earlier this year, the Department of Defense released its annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military, which showed a startling 50 percent increase in assaults against servicewomen since their last report in 2016. And according to a New York Times report, Pentagon figures confirm that approximately 10,000 servicemen are sexually assaulted in the military every year. As a result of their military service, veterans are potentially eligible for a range of benefits that could be helpful in removing a family from an abusive situation including housing assistance, disability payments, medical care including for certain dependents, mental health services and peer support. However, often, veterans seeking assistance may not be aware of the entirety of their benefits. Domestic and sexual violence is a persistent problem in our society, and it's particularly pervasive among our military and veteran populations. It threatens the health, safety and well-being of women and their families, and it demands action from Congress. Help should never be out of reach for survivors when they need it, said Shaheen. This bipartisan bill would improve coordination between the VA and help ensure our rape crisis centers and domestic violence shelters have the resources they need to provide a safe haven to all those seeking assistance. Improving the efficiency of federal agencies to respond to the needs of survivors and bolstering support for our local and state partners who provide this help will continue to be my top priorities in Congress. Domestic and sexual violence has no place inour society or in our military. I fought to have several provisions from my bill to combat military sexual assault incorporated into the annual defense bill, but we must take a holistic view of how we solve this issue, said McSally. Congress must do more to support our servicemen and women as they overcome traumaand seek support and safety outside of their homes.Our legislation willensure the needs of servicemembers and veterans are met with ample resources and assistance. Specifically, the Supporting Veteran Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence Act would: Direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a program of coordination with local domestic, intimate partner and sexual violence service providers; Establish local domestic, intimate partner and sexual violence outreach coordinators at VA hospitals to serve as liaisons to communities; Codify the current, informal VA Task Force on Domestic Violence, and direct it to create a comprehensive national program to address intimate partner violence prevention, response and treatment; Direct the task force to study and report on the feasibility of specific proposals to improve VA services for victims, including an expedited review of temporary housing and other assistance requests, provide additional direct services (particularly in rural areas), and support counseling and peer network services for domestic violence; Direct the VA to complete a national baseline study on the prevalence and causes of domestic violence among veterans; And require the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans to conduct an assessment of the effects of intimate partner violence on women veterans. Senator Shaheen has led efforts in the Senate on legislation to establish basic rights and protections for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Her bill, the Survivors' Bill of Rights Act, was signed into law in 2016 and created the first federally codified rights specifically for sexual assault survivors and for the first time allowed survivors the opportunity to enforce those rights in federal court. Earlier this month, Shaheen introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Survivors' Bill of Rights in the States Act to build on the Survivors' Bill of Rights Act by incentivizing states to pass legislation that guarantees the survivors rights included in the federal legislation. Bill text of the Supporting Veteran Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence Act can be found here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov//news/press/shaheen-stabenow-and-democratic-senators-call-out-trump-admin-efforts-to-promote-junk-plan-coverage-under-questionable-legal-authority,"Shaheen, Stabenow & Democratic Senators Call Out Trump Admin Efforts to Promote Junk Plan Coverage Under Questionable Legal Authority",2019-11-21,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Shaheen, Stabenow & Democratic Senators Call Out Trump Admin Efforts to Promote Junk Plan Coverage Under Questionable Legal Authority November 21, 2019 The Senators' letter comes in response to links on the HealthCare.gov website that re-direct customers to third-party online brokers that sell junk plans on their websites. Shaheen, Stabenow & Casey underscored the danger of these misleading, and potentially illegal, efforts during a press conference this afternoon. (Washington, DC) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) led a group of 23 Senators in sending a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), requesting that the agencies answer for the Trump administration's efforts to promote junk plans to the American public during the Open Enrollment period for health insurance coverage. The Senators draw attention to the fact that the Trump administration-operated HealthCare.gov website is now directing consumers during the ongoing Open Enrollment period to junk plans through third-party brokers, with little to no information about the lack of coverage provided by these so-called short-term plans. The Senators question whether these actions by the Trump administration violate legal requirements established under the Affordable Care Act. One of the Trump administration's most fervent efforts to undermine and unravel the Affordable Care Act is through the expansion of these junk health insurance plans that lack protections for people with pre-existing conditions. Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to block the administration's expansion of junk plans, which would increase costs for millions of Americans. Senators Baldwin (D-WI), Tester (D-MT), Smith (D-MN), Cardin (D-MD), Merkley (D-OR), Murphy (D-CT), Casey (D-PA), Udall (D-NM), Feinstein (D-CA), Hassan (D-NH), Murray (D-WA), Schatz (D-HI), Hirono (D-HI), Warren (D-MA), Whitehouse (D-RI), King (I-ME), Wyden (D-OR), Klobuchar (D-MN), Blumenthal (D-CT), Schumer (D-NY) and Harris (D-CA) also signed the letter. The Senators write, in part, We are extremely concerned that the increased availability of junk plans and lack of oversight by CMS will cause consumers who believe they are purchasing ACA-compliant health plans to inadvertently sign-up for junk plan coverage that is less comprehensive and could expose them to higher out-of-pocket costs. Americans who purchase these junk plans risk being denied coverage for pre-existing conditions and left vulnerable to unexpected gaps in coverage and massive medical bills in the case of health care emergencies. The letter continues, Insurance brokers are now aggressively marketing junk plans to consumersincluding consumers who come to the HealthCare.gov portal seeking comprehensive coverage and then click on links that re-direct them to web brokers and phone-based broker services. The Senators point to the provision in the ACA that prohibits the health care exchange from making plans available that don't meet the ACA's coverage standards and wrote, It is also unclear what statutory authority CMS relies upon to authorize the re-direction of HealthCare.gov customers toward third-party broker entities that sell ACA-compliant coverage and junk plan coverage on the same platforms. The Senators underscore that junk plans were never intended to be an alternative to comprehensive health coverage and pose dangerous risks for consumers. The administration's persistent efforts to expand junk plans, which includes extending the duration from 90 days to 364 days and encouraging states to apply for waivers from the ACA that would allow ACA premium tax credits to be used to subsidize junk plan coverage, risk confusing Americans into thinking these plans offer the same coverage as those that meet the ACA's standards. In closing, the Senators wrote, We are calling on HHS and CMS to take action to limit the availability of junk plans and take steps to ensure that consumers using HealthCare.gov are being offered comprehensive health insurance, receiving premium tax credits, and being enrolled in Medicaid, if eligible. Furthermore, CMS should take action to hold insurance brokers accountable when they mislead HealthCare.gov customers and misrepresent junk plans as safe alternatives to ACA-complaint health insurance coverage. During this year's Open Enrollment period, it is essential that you act fast in order to protect consumers. A PDF of the letter is available here. Shaheen has led efforts in the Senate opposing the Trump administration's push to expand junk plans. Just last month, Shaheensent a letterto HHS and CMS, calling on the agencies to do more to prevent third-party web brokers from steering individuals towards junk health insurance plans. Shaheen has cosponsored and introduced theNo Junk Plans Actand theProtecting Americans with Pre-existing Conditions Act,legislation that would overturn President Trump's expansion of junk plans that do not have to protect health care coverage for Granite Staters and Americans with pre-existing conditions. Last year, Shaheenvotedto overturn the Trump administration's expansion of junk plans and helpedlead a group of 40 Senatorsin calling for the Trump administration to withdraw regulatory changes making it easier for states to promote junk plans and use taxpayer dollars to subsidize junk plans. In April, Shaheen alsoled all 47 Senate Democratson a Senateresolutionthat would reverse the Department of Justice's (DOJ) recentdecisionto side with U.S. District Court Judge Reed O'Connor'srulingto strike down the ACA's health care protections that are enjoyed by millions of Americans. Shaheen has alsoled efforts to restore fundingfor Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment advertising and outreach activities that the Trump administration cut by 90 percent in 2017. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kuster-tonko-pallone-lead-220-members-calling-on-epa-to-negotiate-in,"Kuster, Tonko, Pallone lead 220+ Members Calling on EPA to Negotiate in Good Faith",2019-11-20,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (D-NH), Paul D. Tonko (D-NY), and Energy & Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone (D-NJ) led a bipartisan group of 228 total Members of Congress calling on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to negotiate in good faith with union representatives at the EPA during the ongoing labor dispute. The members' letter raises particular concerns about reports of unfair labor practices and other troubling efforts to undermine career civil servants and union representatives taking place at the agency. We are concerned about potential unfair labor practices and refusal to bargain in good faith with union representatives at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the authors write. We strongly urge EPA's management to return to the bargaining table with union representatives and negotiate in good faith. In addition, we request timely and continuous updates regarding ongoing negotiations. AFGE National Secretary-Treasurer Everett Kelley added, ""What is happening at the EPA is part of a larger mission by the Trump administration to decimate federal employee unions and leave employees with no voice to challenge mismanagement, workplace retaliation, and other abuses. We thank all the members of Congress in both the House and Senate who are calling on EPA to return to the table and negotiate with the union in good faith over a contract that will allow EPA employees to continue doing their jobs on behalf of the American people."" In June 2019, EPA imposed a unilateral, anti-worker management directive in place of a negotiated collective bargaining agreement. The directive violates the rights and protections that Congress specifically guaranteed to public-sector employees. EPA refusing to bargain in good faith with the union jeopardizes the agency's mission, public health, and the environment, consistent with a pattern of similar behavior at other agencies intended to undercut workers. This directive impacts more than 14,000 EPA employees, some of whom handle mission-critical cases, including emergency and long-term hazardous waste cleanup, prosecution of environmental crimes, enforcement of clean air and clean water laws, and cleanup of oil spills and toxic substances. This directive endangers that agency's mission to protect human health and environment and every dedicated EPA employee's voice on the job. Full Letter Text Dear Administrator Wheeler: We are concerned about potential unfair labor practices and refusal to bargain in good faith with union representatives at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). We understand that you have undertaken efforts to negotiate with union representatives; however, more must be done. The negotiations seem to have broken down when EPA adopted proposals that are similar to certain provisions of Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. It is our understanding that in June 2019, EPA unilaterally imposed a new contract on its employees. This imposed contract: eliminates the grievance procedure, stripping workers of important due process and depriving employees of a way to hold managers accountable; removes union members from their voluntary union membership without their consent; evicts union representatives from office space and severely restricts the amount of time they can devote to meetings with employees and management to eliminate problems or obstacles in the workplace; and reduces workplace schedules and telework options, and makes other work schedule changes, hurting EPA employees who commute long distances because they cannot afford to live close to their offices. We strongly urge EPA's management to return to the bargaining table with union representatives and negotiate in good faith. In addition, we request timely and continuous updates regarding ongoing negotiations. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, [228 Signatories] ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://kuster.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shaheen-hassan-kuster-announce-77-million-in-federal-grants-for-nh-water,"Shaheen, Hassan & Kuster Announce $7.7 Million in Federal Grants for NH Water Infrastructure Projects",2019-11-20,2019,2019-11,Democrat,House,NH,Ann Kuster,K000382,kuster.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, DC) U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced today with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded more than $7 million in federal grants to the town of Bristol and the Forest Park Tenants' Association Cooperative in Jaffrey to invest in water and wastewater infrastructure projects. The grants were awarded by the Rural Water and Wastewater Loans and Grants Program at the USDA. The USDA also allocated the towns more than $12 million in federal loans to assist with the water projects. Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has historically worked to protect funding for this federal program during the yearly budget process. Specifically, the Town of Bristol will receive a $6,233,000 federal grant and a $10,567,000 federal loan to invest in the town's sewer system. The Forest Park Tenants' Association Cooperative will receive a $1,469,000 federal grant and a $2,044,000 federal loan for water, wastewater and storm water improvements across 25 acres of land in Jaffrey, which includes manufactured housing. This is a very substantial and important investment in water infrastructure for Bristol and Jaffrey, said Senator Shaheen. These federal funds will help deliver clean water to local residents and manage wastewater and storm water. These projects are fundamental to economic development and the well-being of residents, which is why I continue to fight for substantial investments in infrastructure for New Hampshire. This federal funding will allow the Town of Bristol and the Forest Park Tenants' Association Cooperative to make much-needed updates to their water and sewage systems, said Senator Hassan. These important projects will both improve the quality of life for New Hampshire families and protect our environment. I will continue working with my colleagues in our congressional delegation to invest in infrastructure that promotes the health and safety of all Granite Staters. Investing in our water infrastructure is an investment in the wellbeing of Granite Staters and our economy, said Congresswoman Kuster. These funds will help ensure people can access clean and safe water, and will assist towns in managing waste water and storm water. I will continue advocating for funding and resources to support communities throughout New Hampshire. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z