url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/12/22/2023/signed-into-law-annual-defense-bill-with-key-hassan-backed-provisions,SIGNED INTO LAW: Annual Defense Bill with Key Hassan-Backed Provisions,2023-12-22,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – President Biden signed into law the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024, which includes key national security provisions that Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) secured and supported. The bill includes a 5.2 percent pay raise for U.S. service members and specifically includes bipartisan measures that Senator Hassan authored to provide parental leave parity for Reserve and National Guard members and prepare for emerging national security threats posed by quantum technology. “We must do everything that we can to support our service members and their mission to protect our national security,” said Senator Hassan. “I am glad to see this bipartisan bill signed into law, which includes measures to get our service members the pay and benefits they deserve, invests in New Hampshire’s military institutions, and will help keep our country safe, secure, and free.” “I am also pleased that as part of the annual defense bill, we passed into law my bipartisan bill to provide paid leave parity for those in the National Guard and Reserves, as well as my bipartisan bill to better prepare for threats posed by our adversaries’ development of quantum technology,” said Senator Hassan. “Parental leave should be available to all new parents, and service members in the Reserves and the National Guard should have the same access to parental leave as those serving on active duty – this bill will ensure that is the case. Additionally, quantum technology has major national security implications, including the potential for our adversaries to use it to decrypt encrypted messages and data, and my bipartisan bill will expand our country’s efforts to stay ahead of our adversaries and respond to these threats while taking advantage of the opportunities presented by quantum technology.” Key measures that Senator Hassan supported that are included in the NDAA and have now passed into law: Senator Hassan’s bipartisan bill introduced with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) to expand parental leave eligibility for Reserve and National Guard members to cover all new parents. The legislation included in the NDAA ensures that beginning October 2024, drilling members of the National Guard and Reserves can take the equivalent of up to 12 weeks of parental leave when adopting or fostering children, or when their spouse has a child, just as birth mothers and those serving on active duty are able to. Senator Hassan and Senator John Thune (R-SD)’s bipartisan measures to prepare for national security threats posed by emerging quantum technology. The provisions will: Expand existing public-private talent exchange programs in the Defense Department to include private sector entities working on quantum technology research & applications Authorize a fellowship program in the Defense Department for students focusing on quantum information science and technology research Support for military spouses by allowing executive agencies to appoint spouses of service members to remote work positions, legislation that Senator Hassan cosponsored Strengthening of our nation’s security posture by working more closely with allies and partners, including in the Indo-Pacific region, a priority of Senator Hassan’s Improvements of addiction care resources for those serving in the military, including efforts to help expand access to naloxone and expanding research into alternatives to opioids for pain management Prohibitions on military contracts with entities who have fossil fuel operations in Russia Increased overtime pay rates for members of the U.S. Border Patrol Support for NH priorities that are included in the NDAA: Authorizing the procurement of additional F-35 Joint Strike Fighters, which the Granite State plays a key role in building Authorizing multiyear procurement for the next block of Virginia-class submarines, which are maintained at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Support for the Multi-Mission Dry Dock Expansion at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Multiple provisions to address PFAS contamination in military communities and continue studies into the health effects of PFAS Support for the New Hampshire National Guard’s wellness center in Concord and a vehicle maintenance addition in Littleton ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-applauds-more-than-46-million-in-funds-heading-to-greensource-fabrication-in-charlestown-to-boost-defense-industrial-base,Shaheen Applauds More Than $46 Million in Funds Heading to GreenSource Fabrication in Charlestown to Boost Defense Industrial Base,2023-12-22,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, applauded $46.2 million in federal funds awarded to GreenSource Fabrication, LLC., through the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)’s Defense Production Act Investment (DPAI) Program. These funds will enhance existing production capabilities for GreenSource Fabrication and promote supply chain security for semiconductors, which are used by all major U.S. defense systems. Ensuring the United States has domestic capabilities in microelectronics will enable America to stay on the cutting-edge of manufacturing defense articles and provide a technical advantage ahead of its adversaries. “New Hampshire plays a critical role in our nation’s defense industrial base and these federal funds will help enhance production and manufacturing capabilities at GreenSource Fabrication,” said Senator Shaheen. “These funds will broaden access to advanced hardware that – until recently – could only be procured from foreign sources, helping strengthen our supply chain and military readiness and solidifying New Hampshire’s role as a leader in domestic defense manufacturing.” GreenSource Fabrication operates a state-of-the-art facility in Charlestown, New Hampshire that manufactures High-Density Interconnect Printed Circuit Boards and High Density Build-up organic substrates, used in nearly all electronic products. The award will enable GreenSource to scale up engineering, tooling and manufacturing operations to establish a dedicated building for integrated circuit substrate fabrication, crucial parts in the fabrication of semiconductor devices. These domestic production capabilities for semiconductors are critical enabling technologies for sixth-generation defense systems and applications, including for radar, electronic warfare, information processing and communications. Senator Shaheen is a leader in the U.S. Senate to bolster the domestic defense industrial base to ensure U.S. troops have the cutting-edge equipment they need to defend the nation and deter adversaries. In August, Shaheen toured GreenSource Fabrication, where she met with engineers and employees and discussed the impact of the CHIPS Act on New Hampshire’s manufacturing sector. Shaheen also sent a letter in support of GreenSource’s funding proposal for the DoD’s DPA Title III Program. In early June, Shaheen toured three New Hampshire defense manufacturing facilities and met with the companies’ leadership ahead of a bipartisan congressional delegation visit to the Paris Air Show. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/following-calls-from-nh-delegation-pay-boosted-for-granite-staters-working-at-the-va-white-mountain-national-forest-and-other-federal-offices-in-nh,"Following Calls from NH Delegation, Pay Boosted for Granite Staters Working at the VA, White Mountain National Forest, and Other Federal Offices in NH",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Following a push from the New Hampshire and Vermont Congressional Delegations, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is increasing pay for federal employees in New Hampshire and Vermont, who support Granite Staters through their work at places like the White River Junction VA Medical Center, White Mountain National Forest, and the Army’s Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory. It applies to workers in Carroll, Cheshire, Grafton, and Sullivan Counties in New Hampshire, as well as in Vermont, who will now receive the same locality pay as those in most counties in New Hampshire and in the Greater Boston area. The classification changes in New Hampshire and Vermont will mean that more than 1,000 federal employees will now receive more competitive pay rates. The announcement comes after the New Hampshire and Vermont Congressional Delegationsurged OPM to take this action, and will help increase efforts to hire and retain federal employees for critical efforts, including implementation of thePACT Act, which the delegation passed into law last year to help get veterans exposed to toxic substances the VA health care and benefits that they need. “Ensuring our federal workers’ pay keeps pace with our changing economy is common sense,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “This change will give our dedicated federal workers the raise they deserve and ensure our federal agencies can continue to attract qualified employees.” “Granite Staters deserve a fully staffed, well-qualified federal workforce in order to best serve them,” said Senator Maggie Hassan. “This important pay increase will help recruit and retain the talented public servants who help Granite Staters – including our veterans – get the support that they need.” “This long-overdue pay raise for the hard-working federal employees in Carroll, Cheshire, Grafton and Sullivan Counties is a great way to end the year,” said Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “I’m proud to have worked with the New Hampshire delegation to get this done so folks are paid what they deserve for the work they do.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/following-devastating-floods-nh-delegation-urges-fema-to-be-on-standby-to-provide-disaster-assistance-funds,"Following Devastating Floods, NH Delegation Urges FEMA to be on Standby to Provide Disaster Assistance Funds",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today the New Hampshire delegation sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell in support of New Hampshire communities following severe flooding and wind damage. The letter urges FEMA, in the event the state asks, to work with affected counties and the state government to respond to severe flooding and wind damage and if the state asks for a disaster declaration, to make assistance available quickly. “The effect of the heavy rainfall and flooding were felt throughout the state with numerous road closures due to rising water and full roadway washouts. In addition to transportation infrastructure being damaged, there are reports of homes being destroyed in northern New Hampshire and some residents having to be rescued by National Guard helicopter. The full extent of the damages throughout the state won’t be known until the waters recede,” the Delegation wrote. On December 18, 2023, a massive storm system swept across New England, bringing rain and winds with speeds approaching Category 1 hurricane force. Many places in New Hampshire recorded rainfall of 1.5 to 3 inches, with at least one community experiencing much as six inches. This heavy rainfall was exacerbated by unseasonably warm temperatures that melted snow, which increased the water level in streams and rivers. Flash flood warnings were in effect over broad swaths of the state. “State officials have said that much of the current damage is to infrastructure, and there is a concern that snow could soon fall and cover the damage, making a true accounting of the damage more difficult. Given the extensive flooding and wind damage, we call on FEMA to stand ready to participate in a Preliminary Damage Assessment with state and local officials, should the state request it,” the Delegation continued.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/12/28/2023/senator-hassan-nominates-new-hampshire-students-for-united-states-service-academies,Senator Hassan Nominates New Hampshire Students for United States Service Academies,2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan announced that she has nominated 42 New Hampshire students to attend United States Service Academies - the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. “I am grateful for the young Granite Staters who are stepping forward to serve our country in uniform and keep us safe, secure, and free,” said Senator Hassan. “It is an honor to nominate these New Hampshire students to attend our United States Service Academies, and I look forward to seeing all that these students accomplish in the years to come. For more information on the nomination process for interested applicants, click here. See below for the full list of Senator Hassan’s nominees: NAVAL ACADEMY Rathank Chea, Hampton Stephen Cleveland, Lincoln Caitlyn Koutalidis, Hampton Max Durkin, Greenland Aaron Jee, Bedford Patrick Gandini, Gilford Nolan Matuszak, Hampstead Anderson Seals, Exeter Mackenzie Poplawski, Hampton Kyle Ashley, Newport AIR FORCE ACADEMY Sky Willer, Epsom Dalton Cox, Hollis Naomi Nunez, Littleton Aislyn Reed, Bow Peter Evans, Barrington Martina Pike, Loudon Michael Nemeth, Hudson Colin Atkinson, Amherst Trey Baker, Hampstead Justin Blanchard, Portsmouth Taylor Anderton, Hampton Falls Adam Connelly, Hollis Thomas Johnson, Nashua Wyatt Lake, Etna Talia Parmalee, Exeter Charlotte Smith, Center Barnstead Rayna Thompson, Brentwood Alec Simoneau, Amherst Brandon Adamson, Londonderry Nicholas Engert, Grantham MILITARY ACADEMY Jackson Bairstow, Dover Annie Christina, Brentwood Thomas Lacroix, Auburn Thaddeus Maughan, Hopkinton Regan McIntire, Gilford Thanida Thomas, Thornton Tatiana Stockbower, Dover Harley Twofoot, Merrimack Declan MacDougall, Somersworth Victoria Kelly, Northfield MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY Derek Leedberg, Stratham Meghan Shippos, Bow Trey Baker, Hampstead Victoria Kelly, Northfield Nolan Matuszak, Hampstead ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/following-calls-from-nh-delegation-pay-boosted-for-granite-staters-working-at-the-va-white-mountain-national-forest-and-other-federal-offices-in-nh,"Following Calls from NH Delegation, Pay Boosted for Granite Staters Working at the VA, White Mountain National Forest, and Other Federal Offices in NH",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Following a push from the New Hampshire and Vermont Congressional Delegations, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is increasing pay for federal employees in New Hampshire and Vermont, who support Granite Staters through their work at places like the White River Junction VA Medical Center, White Mountain National Forest, and the Army’s Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory. It applies to workers in Carroll, Cheshire, Grafton, and Sullivan Counties in New Hampshire, as well as in Vermont, who will now receive the same locality pay as those in most counties in New Hampshire and in the Greater Boston area. The classification changes in New Hampshire and Vermont will mean that more than 1,000 federal employees will now receive more competitive pay rates. The announcement comes after the New Hampshire and Vermont Congressional Delegations urged OPM to take this action, and will help increase efforts to hire and retain federal employees for critical efforts, including implementation of the PACT Act, which Senator Hassan and colleagues developed and passed into law last year to help get veterans exposed to toxic substances the VA health care and benefits that they need. “Granite Staters deserve a fully staffed, well-qualified federal workforce in order to best serve them,” said Senator Maggie Hassan. “This important pay increase will help recruit and retain the talented public servants who help Granite Staters – including our veterans – get the support that they need.” “This long-overdue pay raise for the hard-working federal employees in Carroll, Cheshire, Grafton and Sullivan Counties is a great way to end the year,” said Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “I’m proud to have worked with the New Hampshire delegation to get this done so folks are paid what they deserve for the work they do.” “Hardworking New Hampshire families deserve to be fairly compensated for their work,” said Congresswoman Annie Kuster. “I’m pleased to see this change that the New Hampshire Delegation advocated for take effect – I will always fight for our New Hampshire workforce.” “Ensuring our federal workers’ pay keeps pace with our changing economy is common sense,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “This change will give our dedicated federal workers the raise they deserve and ensure our federal agencies can continue to attract qualified employees.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/following-devastating-floods-shaheen-leads-nh-congressional-delegation-letter-to-fema-requesting-the-agency-standby-to-provide-disaster-assistance-funds,"Following Devastating Floods, Shaheen Leads NH Congressional Delegation Letter to FEMA Requesting the Agency Standby to Provide Disaster Assistance Funds",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), along with U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01), sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell in support of New Hampshire communities following severe flooding and wind damage. The letter urges FEMA, in the event the state asks, to work with affected counties and the state government to respond to severe flooding and wind damage and if the state asks for a disaster declaration, to make assistance available quickly. “The effect of the heavy rainfall and flooding were felt throughout the state with numerous road closures due to rising water and full roadway washouts. In addition to transportation infrastructure being damaged, there are reports of homes being destroyed in northern New Hampshire and some residents having to be rescued by National Guard helicopter. The full extent of the damages throughout the state won’t be known until the waters recede,” the Delegation wrote. On December 18, 2023, a massive storm system swept across New England, bringing rain and winds with speeds approaching Category 1 hurricane force. Many places in New Hampshire recorded rainfall of 1.5 to 3 inches, with at least one community experiencing much as six inches. This heavy rainfall was exacerbated by unseasonably warm temperatures that melted snow, which increased the water level in streams and rivers. Flash flood warnings were in effect over broad swaths of the state. “State officials have said that much of the current damage is to infrastructure, and there is a concern that snow could soon fall and cover the damage, making a true accounting of the damage more difficult. Given the extensive flooding and wind damage, we call on FEMA to stand ready to participate in a Preliminary Damage Assessment with state and local officials, should the state request it,” the Delegation continued. Full text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/following-devastating-floods-shaheen-leads-nh-congressional-delegation-letter-to-fema-requesting-the-agency-standby-to-provide-disaster-assistance-funds,"Following Devastating Floods, Shaheen Leads NH Congressional Delegation Letter to FEMA Requesting the Agency Standby to Provide Disaster Assistance Funds",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), along with U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01), sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell in support of New Hampshire communities following severe flooding and wind damage. The letter urges FEMA, in the event the state asks, to work with affected counties and the state government to respond to severe flooding and wind damage and if the state asks for a disaster declaration, to make assistance available quickly. “The effect of the heavy rainfall and flooding were felt throughout the state with numerous road closures due to rising water and full roadway washouts. In addition to transportation infrastructure being damaged, there are reports of homes being destroyed in northern New Hampshire and some residents having to be rescued by National Guard helicopter. The full extent of the damages throughout the state won’t be known until the waters recede,” the Delegation wrote. On December 18, 2023, a massive storm system swept across New England, bringing rain and winds with speeds approaching Category 1 hurricane force. Many places in New Hampshire recorded rainfall of 1.5 to 3 inches, with at least one community experiencing much as six inches. This heavy rainfall was exacerbated by unseasonably warm temperatures that melted snow, which increased the water level in streams and rivers. Flash flood warnings were in effect over broad swaths of the state. “State officials have said that much of the current damage is to infrastructure, and there is a concern that snow could soon fall and cover the damage, making a true accounting of the damage more difficult. Given the extensive flooding and wind damage, we call on FEMA to stand ready to participate in a Preliminary Damage Assessment with state and local officials, should the state request it,” the Delegation continued. Full text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-recognizes-paige-youschak-thompson-of-laconia-as-decembers-granite-stater-of-the-month,Senator Hassan Recognizes Paige Youschak-Thompson of Laconia as December’s Granite Stater of the Month,2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan recognized Paige Youschak-Thompson of Laconia as December’s Granite Stater of the Month. Paige is known around the Lakes Region for her dedication to volunteer work and bettering the community. She began regularly volunteering while her daughter was in school and now that her daughter is an adult, Paige volunteers five days a week, putting in more than 40 hours a week. Being able to help the community brings Paige great joy, and she plans to continue volunteering for as long as she can. Paige showcases the Granite State spirit of giving every day of the year. Senator Hassan launched the “Granite Stater of the Month” initiative in 2017 to recognize outstanding New Hampshire citizens who go above and beyond to help their neighbors and make their communities stronger. To read Senator Hassan’s statement for the Congressional Record, see below. I am honored to recognize Paige Youschak-Thompson of Laconia as December’s Granite Stater of the Month. Paige is known throughout the Lakes Region for her service to different organizations. Although she has always volunteered, she became more active when her daughter was in school, and now, with her daughter an adult, volunteering has become the equivalent of a full-time job. Paige volunteers five days a week for more than 40 hours a week. Paige will never say no when someone asks for her help. Although she does not have a favorite cause or organization, The Saint Vincent de Paul Society, a local thrift shop, has a special place in her heart since it is where she first started to consistently volunteer. In addition, Paige is especially fond of helping kids in the community, and believes in giving all children a chance, regardless of their income level. She worked with a local boutique to help provide free prom dresses to girls who may otherwise not be able to have one. Paige is also the chair of the community engagement committee for the Greater Lakes Region Children’s Auction, which helps local children and families in need – it has distributed more than $8 million over the last 40 years to the community. Paige’s strong pull towards volunteer work stems from her deep and lifelong desire to be a person who helps out and holds space for others. Paige makes other people happy in any way that she can. Being able to help the community brings her great joy, and she plans to continue volunteering for as long as she can. Paige showcases the Granite State spirit of giving every day of the year, and I am honored to name her Granite Stater of the Month. Especially as we enter the holiday season, I hope that we can all aspire to give our time and support to our community as freely as Paige does. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/shaheen-hassan-join-warren-group-of-democratic-senators-to-introduce-resolution-affirming-support-for-fdas-scientific-judgment-that-medication-abortion-is-safe-and-effective,"Shaheen, Hassan Join Warren, Group of Democratic Senators to Introduce Resolution Affirming Support for FDA’s Scientific Judgment That Medication Abortion Is Safe and Effective",2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) joined a group of Democratic U.S. Senators led by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) to introduce a resolution in support of equitable, science-based policies governing access to medication abortion. This action comes as Americans continue to grapple with the reversal of Roe v. Wade and follows last week’s announcement that the Supreme Court will hear a challenge to medication abortion access. “Limiting access to mifepristone would deal yet another blow to women’s reproductive freedom and bodily autonomy. The opinions of GOP lawmakers and extreme jurists have no place in dictating women’s ability to access the reproductive care they need,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to join this resolution that emphasizes the importance of maintaining and protecting women’s fundamental right to make decisions about their own reproductive health care.” “Across the country, women are grappling with the very personal impacts of the attacks on a woman’s fundamental freedom by anti-choice extremists,” said Senator Hassan. “Science has shown that mifepristone is safe and effective, and I am proud to join my colleagues in standing up for a woman’s fundamental freedom and making clear that access to this often life-saving medication must remain available.” Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, reproductive rights have been increasingly under attack, with more than a dozen states banning or restricting access to abortion care, and anti-abortion extremists attempting to ban medication abortion nationwide. Medication abortion is currently used for over half of all abortions. “I am fed up with extremists trying to turn back the clock and deny women reproductive health care – especially after decades of science that show that medication abortion is safe and effective. Any threat to the accessibility of this drug would be devastating to both health care providers and patients across the country, and Senate Democrats are demonstrating with this resolution that we're determined to fight back,” said Senator Warren. This resolution expresses the sense of Congress that the scientific judgment of the FDA that mifepristone is safe and effective should be respected and that law and policy governing access to lifesaving, time-sensitive medication abortion care in the United States should be equitable and based on science. The resolution affirms that mifepristone is safe and effective, while acknowledging the significant harm that would be posed to both health care providers and patients across the nation if mifepristone were sharply curtailed. Full text of the resolution is available here. The resolution was also co-sponsored by U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Angus King (I-ME), Ron Wyden (D-WY), John Fetterman (D-PA), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Tom Carper (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NM), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tina Smith (D-MN), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Cory Booker (D-NJ). The resolution has been endorsed by Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Power to Decide, National Council of Jewish Women, The Century Foundation’s Health Equity and Reform Team, National Partnership for Women and Families, Guttmacher Institute, Center for Reproductive Rights, Reproductive Freedom for All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, and the EMAA Project. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/icymi-senators-shaheen-collins-discuss-bipartisan-efforts-to-lower-the-cost-of-insulin,"ICYMI: Senators Shaheen, Collins Discuss Bipartisan Efforts to Lower the Cost of Insulin",2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) –U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) spoke with the Washington Post’s Health 202 Newsletter to discuss their bipartisan INSULIN Act as part of their recent efforts to lower the cost of insulin. As co-chairs of the Senate Diabetes Caucus, Shaheen and Collins have led action in the U.S. Senate to advance priorities that will lower the costs of insulin, invest in treatment and prioritize diabetes research. Recently, the Senators penned a joint op-ed about the importance of lowering the cost of insulin. The Senators have worked to increase awareness of the threats posed by diabetes, invest in research and improve access to treatment options. They have consistently held insulin manufacturers, insurers and pharmacy benefit managers accountable for the skyrocketing cost of life-saving insulin. Earlier this year, Shaheen and Collins commended drug manufacturers Lilly, Novo Nordisk and Sanofi’s actions to lower their list prices for their insulin products. Full text of the story can be found here and below: Sens. Shaheen and Collins explain their work on insulin affordability A growing share of the more than 7 million Americans with diabetes is enjoying lower out-of-pocket costs for insulin as states, Medicare and drug companies have moved to cap prices. But some senators are pushing to address sky-high insulin costs for patients who continue to fall through the cracks. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) introduced legislation earlier this year alongside Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), who plans to tout it at today’s Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee hearing on the diabetes epidemic. Among other provisions, their bill would extend Medicare’s $35-per-month cap on insulin prices to individuals with private insurance, rein in the business practices of prescription drug middlemen and make it easier for new generic and biosimilar drugs to enter the market. I caught up with the longtime co-chairs of the Senate Diabetes Caucus over the phone yesterday about their approach. This interview has been edited and condensed for length and clarity. H202: There have been several steps in the public and private sector to lower insulin costs in recent years. Why is federal reform necessary at this point in time? Collins: First of all, there’s no guarantee that the manufacturers keep their prices low, and we still have real problems in the marketplace. What we have done, in my view, is a much more comprehensive approach. We’ve looked at why prices have gone up so much and we’ve looked at the role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). Our whole intent is to reduce the perverse incentives in the insulin market that encouraged these high list prices. That includes mandating that the PBMs pass 100 percent of the insulin rebates that they negotiate to the plan sponsors. Shaheen: As for why now, we’ve seen a PBM reform bill pass the House overwhelmingly. There’s also PBM reform that I think is very likely to get to the floor of the Senate. But we can’t address the high cost of health care unless we address the cost of insulin, and getting at that underlying list price is about the PBMs. It’s also about allowing biosimilar insulin to get to the market. Collins: That’s a really important point. What we found is, a couple of years ago when a biosimilar was launched on the market at a very low, affordable price, PBMs would not choose it to be on the formularies for insurance plans because they didn’t get a big enough cut of the price because it was so low. So what did the company do? It relaunched the biosimilar at a higher price, and then it was chosen for the formulary. I can’t think of a better example of a broken marketplace than that. H202: Republicans jettisoned a proposed $35 insulin cap on private insurance from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. Sen. Collins, do you think enough members of your party would support the Insulin Act of 2023 to pass? Collins: I think that there is support for a $35 cap, but a lot of people realize that there’s something wrong with the underlying insulin market and that we need to fix that. Shaheen: We have seven Republican co-sponsors on the bill, and we’re talking to a number of other people who have expressed an interest, so we’re hoping to get more than that. And if you combine that with those people who voted to address insulin costs [previously], I think if this bill comes to the floor we will have a majority of senators supporting it. H202: Other lawmakers have introduced legislation on this issue, including Sens. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) and John Kennedy (R-La.), who proposed a $35-per-month cost-sharing limit for insured and uninsured people. Can you comment on that effort? Shaheen: We’ve met with Kennedy and Warnock to see if we could make sure we include all the provisions in both bills, and those discussions are still ongoing. It’s been something that the HELP Committee has also expressed an interest in. So I’m hopeful that we’re going to have something that everybody will support taking to the floor. H202: We’re in a divided Congress, and for many Americans, Democrats and Republicans have never seemed so far apart. Why is bipartisanship important for lawmaking? Collins: I’ve probably worked with Sen. Shaheen on more issues, and a wider range of issues, than any other senator, and frankly, I think that’s why we’ve been so effective in being able to get things done. Shaheen: Two heads are better than one. Working together allows us to both pick up on any kinds of oversights that one person might have, but also to bring different perspectives to the issue. Here in Congress that’s important because very little really gets done without having bipartisan support. A piece of that is being able to trust the people you’re negotiating with, and I think that is a really important aspect of my relationship with Sen. Collins. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-hassan-join-warren-group-of-democratic-senators-to-introduce-resolution-affirming-support-for-fdas-scientific-judgment-that-medication-abortion-is-safe-and-effective,"Shaheen, Hassan Join Warren, Group of Democratic Senators to Introduce Resolution Affirming Support for FDA’s Scientific Judgment That Medication Abortion Is Safe and Effective",2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) joined a group of Democratic U.S. Senators led by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) to introduce a resolution in support of equitable, science-based policies governing access to medication abortion. This action comes as Americans continue to grapple with the reversal of Roe v. Wade and follows last week’s announcement that the Supreme Court will hear a challenge to medication abortion access. “Limiting access to mifepristone would deal yet another blow to women’s reproductive freedom and bodily autonomy. The opinions of GOP lawmakers and extreme jurists have no place in dictating women’s ability to access the reproductive care they need,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to join this resolution that emphasizes the importance of maintaining and protecting women’s fundamental right to make decisions about their own reproductive health care.” “Across the country, women are grappling with the very personal impacts of the attacks on a woman’s fundamental freedom by anti-choice extremists,” said Senator Hassan. “Science has shown that mifepristone is safe and effective, and I am proud to join my colleagues in standing up for a woman’s fundamental freedom and making clear that access to this often life-saving medication must remain available.” Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, reproductive rights have been increasingly under attack, with more than a dozen states banning or restricting access to abortion care, and anti-abortion extremists attempting to ban medication abortion nationwide. Medication abortion is currently used for over half of all abortions. “I am fed up with extremists trying to turn back the clock and deny women reproductive health care – especially after decades of science that show that medication abortion is safe and effective. Any threat to the accessibility of this drug would be devastating to both health care providers and patients across the country, and Senate Democrats are demonstrating with this resolution that we're determined to fight back,” said Senator Warren. This resolution expresses the sense of Congress that the scientific judgment of the FDA that mifepristone is safe and effective should be respected and that law and policy governing access to lifesaving, time-sensitive medication abortion care in the United States should be equitable and based on science. The resolution affirms that mifepristone is safe and effective, while acknowledging the significant harm that would be posed to both health care providers and patients across the nation if mifepristone were sharply curtailed. Full text of the resolution is available here. The resolution was also co-sponsored by U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Angus King (I-ME), Ron Wyden (D-WY), John Fetterman (D-PA), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Tom Carper (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NM), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tina Smith (D-MN), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Cory Booker (D-NJ). The resolution has been endorsed by Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Power to Decide, National Council of Jewish Women, The Century Foundation’s Health Equity and Reform Team, National Partnership for Women and Families, Guttmacher Institute, Center for Reproductive Rights, Reproductive Freedom for All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, and the EMAA Project. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-urges-department-of-agriculture-and-us-trade-representative-to-address-sugar-shortages-trade-and-supply-chain-issues-to-lower-costs-for-americans,"Shaheen Urges Department of Agriculture and U.S. Trade Representative to Address Sugar Shortages, Trade and Supply Chain Issues to Lower Costs for Americans",2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, sent a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to urge the agency to swiftly implement recommendations made by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in its recent report, Sugar Program: Alternative Methods for Implementing Import Restrictions Could Increase Effectiveness. In part, Senator Shaheen wrote: “According to GAO, the U.S. sugar program is creating sugar supply shortages for domestic food production and contributing to higher costs for manufacturers, workers and American families, disproportionately affecting low-income households. […] It’s clear that the U.S. sugar program administration and the lack of any modernization—despite decades of change and growth in the America economy—is leading to sugar supply chain bottlenecks for food manufacturers and contributing to high food costs incurred by all Americans.” In its report, GAO found research suggesting the U.S. sugar program costs American consumers, on estimate, $2.5 billion to $3.5 billion each year. GAO further found significant opportunities for the U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Trade Representative to reduce inefficiencies in administration of the U.S. sugar program and to make the program more effective. Shaheen concluded: “Swift implementation of these practical reforms to trade policy present a powerful opportunity to provide relief to families at the grocery store, increase domestic manufacturing, strengthen critical supply chains and continue to safeguard domestic sugar production. These are worthy and achievable goals, and I appreciate that GAO acknowledges that there are commonsense ways to move forward on this issue with broadly shared benefits for the American economy.” The letter can be read in its entirety here. Shaheen leads action in the U.S. Senate to make overdue sugar policy reform. Sugar was the only commodity whose federal support program was not reformed in five-year reauthorizations of agricultural programs, neither in the 2014 nor the 2018 Farm Bills. Senator Shaheen has a history of working across the aisle to fight for reform to the sugar program, both through previous amendments to the Farm Bill and through bipartisan legislation with former U.S. Senator Toomey (R-PA) to roll back these unnecessary provisions that unfairly benefit a small group of sugar producers and processors at the expense of consumers and other businesses. Additionally, she has for years pushed the Administration to increase domestic access to imported sugar. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-baldwin-booker-push-to-keep-anti-lgbtq-and-anti-abortion-provisions-out-of-critical-government-funding-bills,"Merkley, Baldwin, Booker Push to Keep Anti-LGBTQ+ and Anti-Abortion Provisions Out of Critical Government Funding Bills",2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley—along with U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Cory Booker (D-NJ)—led 45 Senators in a letter to Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) urging them to reject any new poison pill policy riders in the fiscal year 2024 appropriations bills, including the anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-abortion policy provisions that House Republicans inserted into their appropriations bills. “The Senate has had tremendous success both passing bipartisan bills in committee and on the Senate floor because these bills are free of new poison pill riders. Unfortunately, the House appropriations bills are filled with new highly partisan provisions, including anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+ riders, that should be removed from any final appropriations bills,” write the Senators. These poison pill policy riders aim to make changes to laws that would fail to withstand scrutiny of congressional debate by attaching them to “must-pass” measures like appropriation bills. “Our country is facing a reproductive health care crisis, one that has been accelerated by the Supreme Court’s extremist decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization,” the Senators write. “House Republicans have proposed several new anti-abortion policy riders. These riders include a provision to force back in place medically unnecessary restrictions on medication abortion, a measure to stop the implementation of the Biden administration’s executive orders to protect access to abortion care, and a measure that would jeopardize access to essential postgraduate medical training in abortion care,” their letter continues. Not only are there anti-abortion poison pills included in the House bills, there are attacks on the LGBTQ+ community as well. “House Republicans have used the appropriations process to push extremist anti-LGBTQ+ measures, which threaten to disrupt the lives and fundamental dignity of the LGBTQ+ community,” the letter states. “Against this backdrop, House Republicans have introduced more than 50 anti-LGBTQ+ provisions across all 12 appropriations bills. These provisions include those allowing the government to discriminate against married same-sex couples as well as language to prevent the administration from enforcing laws to protect LGBTQ+ people from discrimination. Seven of the House’s twelve appropriations bills also contain dangerous riders that ban access to gender-affirming care, which would deprive transgender people of medically necessary and often life-saving healthcare,” the Senators note. These extreme, poison pill provisions riddled throughout the House appropriations bills threaten Congress’ ability to pass bipartisan funding bills that are needed to keep the government open and working for the American people. Hyper-partisan agenda items have no place in critical spending bills that require broad, bipartisan consensus to pass and keep the government open. Joining Merkley, Baldwin, and Booker on this letter are Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tom Carper (D-DE), Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Luján (D-NM), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The Senators’ letter is endorsed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Guttmacher Institute, Human Rights Campaign, National Center for Transgender Equality, National Council of Jewish Women, National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, National Women’s Law Center, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Reproductive Freedom for All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), Whitman-Walker Institute. Full text of the letter can be found here and follows below: Dear Chair Murray and Vice Chair Collins: We write to urge you to keep the FY24 appropriations bills free of any new poison pill policy riders. Partisan, discriminatory, and harmful policy riders have no place in appropriations bills. The Senate has had tremendous success both passing bipartisan bills in committee and on the Senate floor because these bills are free of new poison pill riders. Unfortunately, the House appropriations bills are filled with new highly partisan provisions, including anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+ riders, that should be removed from any final appropriations bills. Our country is facing a reproductive health care crisis, one that has been accelerated by the Supreme Court’s extremist decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. As of November 7, 2023, 14 states are enforcing abortion bans at any point in pregnancy and seven states have imposed abortion bans with limits that range from six to 18 weeks. These bans leave 1 in 3 women, as well as transgender and nonbinary people, without access to abortion and disproportionately impact people of color, people with disabilities, young people, people living in rural areas, and people with low incomes. Yet in the midst of this crisis, House Republicans have proposed several new anti-abortion policy riders. These riders include a provision to force back in place medically unnecessary restrictions on medication abortion, a measure to stop the implementation of the Biden administration’s executive orders to protect access to abortion care, and a measure that would jeopardize access to essential postgraduate medical training in abortion care. If adopted, these provisions would seriously undermine pregnant people’s ability to make decisions about their bodies and providers’ ability to provide necessary care. At the same time, House Republicans have used the appropriations process to push extremist anti-LGBTQ+ measures, which threaten to disrupt the lives and fundamental dignity of the LGBTQ+ community. Anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is already on the rise; in 2023 alone, more than 575 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced across 41 state legislatures, and more than 80 of those bills have been signed into law. Against this backdrop, House Republicans have introduced more than 50 anti-LGBTQ+ provisions across all 12 appropriations bills. These provisions include those allowing the government to discriminate against married same-sex couples as well as language to prevent the administration from enforcing laws to protect LGBTQ+ people from discrimination. Seven of the House’s twelve appropriations bills also contain dangerous riders that ban access to gender-affirming care, which would deprive transgender people of medically necessary and often life-saving healthcare. Controversial poison pill provisions like those riddled throughout the House appropriations bills will severely undermine Congress’ ability to push forward must-pass funding measures to keep the government open and working for the American people. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-ricketts-respond-to-reports-that-recent-elections-in-serbia-were-not-free-nor-fair,"Shaheen, Ricketts Respond to Reports that Recent Elections in Serbia Were Not Free nor Fair",2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) and Chair of the Europe and Regional Security Cooperation Subcommittee, and U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee, today released a joint statement in response to reports that the recent elections in Serbia were not fair nor free: “The national elections in Serbia over the weekend were an opportunity for the country to demonstrate its continued commitment to democracy and free and fair elections. However, we are disappointed to learn that, according to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the elections were technically well administered but there were numerous irregularities which indicate that the elections were neither free nor fair. “In particular, we were concerned by reports that voters were bused into Serbia to support the ruling party, in addition to reports of vote buying and ballot box stuffing. The Serbian people deserve a true democracy and an electoral process that fully represents the will of the people. “Right now, Serbia is at a crossroads and in order to advance its European Union membership aspirations, it must align itself with all competences outlined by the EU, which includes free and fair elections. We strongly urge all relevant institutions to take immediate action to consider whether these recent elections should be repeated in specific regions of the country to ensure that the results accurately reflect the wishes of its citizens. The Serbian government must also address the deficiencies and address all irregularities outlined in the OSCE’s preliminary report and in the final report when it becomes available,” the Senators concluded. Since her election into the Senate in 2009, Senator Shaheen has prioritized her leadership on the Western Balkans and has led numerous congressional delegations to the region. In April 2022, Shaheen led a bipartisan congressional delegation to Serbia as part of a broader trip to the Western Balkans with Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Chris Murphy (D-CT). In February 2022, Senator Shaheen chaired a subcommittee hearing in the Western Balkans with Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs and Special Representative to the Western Balkans. In February, at the urging of Shaheen, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee held a hearing on the Western Balkans. In May, she also re-introduced her bipartisan legislation with Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS), The Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act, which would codify executive orders to address corrupt and anti-Dayton behavior in the Western Balkans and authorize various measures to promote greater economic ties to the region. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-urges-faa-administrator-whitaker-to-conduct-a-thorough-assessment-of-safety-measures-to-better-protect-air-traffic-controllers,Shaheen Urges FAA Administrator Whitaker to Conduct a Thorough Assessment of Safety Measures to Better Protect Air Traffic Controllers,2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) - Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) sent a letter to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Michael Whitaker urging the FAA to conduct a thorough assessment of potential measures to mitigate stressful work conditions for air traffic controllers. A New York Times investigation, as well as a report issued by the National Airspace Safety Review Team (SRT) last month, found that long hours and irregular work schedules contribute to fatigue, deteriorated mental health and increased substance misuse among these vital workers. In part, Senator Shaheen wrote: “In particular, it is critical that the FAA implement recommendations included in the report to address understaffing of certified professional controllers. As the SRT reports, current staffing levels have led to historic overtime rates – leading to increased fatigue and mental health concerns that have resulted in preventable human errors.” Shaheen continued: “In addition to the assessment conducted by the SRT, I urge the FAA to thoroughly review measures in place to address controller fatigue, burnout and general physical and mental wellbeing. The personal accounts reported by the New York Times reflect a dire level of occupational stress that imperils the health of every controller employed by the FAA and jeopardizes the safety of America’s traveling public. These accounts must be treated seriously and met with a focused effort to address unsustainable controller workload and increase mental health resources and support.” The letter can be read in its entirety here. Earlier this year, Shaheen wrote former FAA Acting Administrator Billy Nolen about the issue of workforce shortages as airports across the country faced multiple runway incursion incidents. In June, Shaheen introduced legislation to address air traffic controller staffing and increase transparency in their hiring process. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-helps-introduce-pfas-action-act,Pappas Helps Introduce PFAS Action Act,2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Last week, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) helped introduce the PFAS Action Act alongside Representatives Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Pat Ryan (NY-18). The PFAS Action Act is comprehensive, bipartisan legislation that would protect Americans and our environment from forever chemicals by establishing a national drinking water standard for select PFAS chemicals, accelerating the designation of PFOA and PFOS chemicals as hazardous substances, limiting industrial discharge, and providing communities with resources to support water utilities and wastewater treatment, among other provisions. Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) is also an original cosponsor of this legislation. Notably, the PFAS Action Act contains Congressman Pappas’s Clean Water Standards for PFAS Act. Pappas’s legislation, and his provisions included in this legislation, would regulate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) chemicals under the Clean Water Act to curb the ability for manufacturers and other polluters to contaminate our nation’s waterways with toxic levels of PFAS. “Toxic forever chemicals such as PFAS continue to pose health risks to communities across New Hampshire and the entire country,” said Congressman Pappas. “I’m proud to help introduce the bipartisan PFAS Action Act to stop PFAS from polluting our water, land, and air while cleaning up contamination in the environment. I’m committed to continuing to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle until no one worries that their water is unsafe or that PFAS contamination will harm their family.” The PFAS Action Act would do the following to protect our air, land, and water from harmful PFAS contamination: Require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a national drinking water standard for PFOA, PFOS and four other PFAS chemicals that protects public health, including the health of vulnerable subpopulations. This provision aligns with EPA’s recent national drinking water standard proposal. Accelerate designation of PFOA and PFOS chemicals as hazardous substances, which EPA has recently proposed, and requires EPA to determine whether to list other PFAS within five years. The bill reaffirms that EPA has existing authority to use their discretion regarding liability under CERCLA and rejects liability exemptions for specific industries in line with the introduced bill last Congress. Designate PFOA and PFOS as hazardous air pollutants within 180 days and require EPA to determine whether to list other PFAS within five years. Require EPA to place discharge limits on industrial releases of PFAS and provides $200 million annually for wastewater treatment. Prohibit unsafe incineration of PFAS wastes and place a moratorium on the introduction of new PFAS into commerce. Require comprehensive PFAS health testing. Create a voluntary label for PFAS in cookware. Assist schools and childcare facilities with addressing PFAS contamination in drinking water. Require manufacturers to provide reference standards for PFAS in order to help the agency accurately identify and act faster to mitigate the impact of dangerous forever chemicals.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-introduces-legislation-to-help-rural-communities-benefit-from-investments-in-clean-energy-and-energy-efficiency,Shaheen Introduces Legislation to Help Rural Communities Benefit from Investments in Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency,2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced The Energy Circuit Riders Act, legislation to help ensure communities in rural America can take advantage of historic investments in energy efficiency and clean energy. Shaheen’s bill would establish a new grant program within USDA Rural Development to help eligible entities hire local, on-the-ground experts that travel to rural communities and provide assistance on projects that can help save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. “From the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to the Inflation Reduction Act, we’ve made historic investments in energy efficiency and clean energy and it’s critical that rural communities take advantage of these resources to the fullest extent,” said Senator Shaheen. “We’ve seen what these programs can do in the Granite State to lower costs for families and protect our environment—it's time we make sure all of our communities benefit.” These Energy Circuit Riders would work with multiple local governments in rural areas to provide assistance, such as energy planning, energy audits, grant writing, identifying federal, state, local and utility-based energy incentives and more. The legislation is modeled after a successful Energy Circuit Rider program in New Hampshire run by Clean Energy NH, a nonprofit based in Concord, New Hampshire. “The IIJA and IRA are transformative investments in America's transition to zero carbon technologies, but if we want communities with fewer resources to receive these funds, they need help. Energy Circuit Riders can provide unbiased advice to communities, assist them in accessing federal grants and rebates, and deploy clean energy in local communities.” said Sam Evans Brown, Executive Director of Clean Energy New Hampshire. Shaheen’s legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators, Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Peter Welch (D-VT) and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The legislation is also endorsed by the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO) and American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE). Shaheen leads legislative action in the U.S. Senate to support energy efficiency projects and initiatives. Recently, Shaheen visited Exeter's Town Office to highlight a federal energy efficiency grant from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), commonly called the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, coming to Exeter and how it is leveraging efficiency and weatherization funding from NHSaves. In addition, Shaheen successfully included critical provisions of her energy efficiency bill – the Energy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act (ESIC) – with Senator Rob Portman (R-OH) in the IIJA. Shaheen was also a key supporter of the Inflation Reduction Act, which included provisions for clean energy and climate investments in New Hampshire. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-murkowski-reintroduce-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-girls-access-to-education-around-the-world,"Shaheen, Murkowski Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Girls’ Access to Education Around the World",2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"**Today, 120 million girls around the world are not regularly enrolled in school** **Girls in crisis and conflict settings are nearly 2.5 times more likely to be out of school than those living in countries not in crisis** (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, reintroduced her legislation with U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) to address the unique barriers young girls in developing countries face in accessing a complete education. “Keeping girls in school is fundamental to ensuring they have the opportunity to grow and thrive—and when girls are empowered with access to quality education, their communities and countries are better able to achieve gender equality and economic development,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to once again join with Senator Murkowski to reintroduce bipartisan legislation to address the systemic and persistent barriers impeding girls’ education worldwide and reiterate our nation’s moral obligation and foreign policy priority to act now to protect and educate girls around the world.” “Access to education is critical to a nation’s development and health—and yet we still see that around the world too many girls and women are denied the opportunity to go to school,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski. “I’m proud to join Senator Shaheen on this effort to reduce the many barriers girls face in accessing quality education—including forced marriages, unsafe or violent environments, and more. Our bill works to empower millions of young girls across the world who will go on to play a crucial role in driving economic development in their communities. Everyone deserves access to an education—and I am proud to fight for this opportunity for young girls around the world.” According to data from the Malala Fund, 120 million girls around the world are not in school. The Keeping Girls in School Act would direct the U.S. government to leverage its resources and partnerships with private institutions, NGOs and federal agencies to create solutions that address the obstacles facing adolescent girls. The bill would also require the development of a U.S. Global Strategy to Empower Adolescent Girls to ensure that the United States remains committed to adolescent girls as a critical demographic in the growth of every country, especially in developing countries. Specifically, the Keeping Girls in School Act would: Authorize USAID to enter into innovative, results-based and traditional grant programs designed to reduce the barriers that adolescent girls face to receiving an education. Outline and bring attention to 15 barriers that girls face in their pursuit of secondary education. Require the review and update of the U.S. Global Strategy to Empower Adolescent Girls in consultation with other departments and agencies in the federal government and civil society, to be reviewed and updated every 5 years. 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 and pursue gender equality, such as opposing efforts to roll back women’s reproductive rights, fighting for the rights of sexual assault survivors, advocating on behalf of family planning and women’s global health, spearheading efforts to end violence against women and securing women leadership roles in conflict resolution and peace negotiations. Shaheen is also an outspoken advocate for Afghan women and girls. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cornyn-hassan-tillis-bennet-introduce-bill-to-ensure-veterans-access-to-quality-mental-health-care,"Cornyn, Hassan, Tillis, Bennet Introduce Bill to Ensure Veterans’ Access to Quality Mental Health Care",2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Michael Bennet (D-CO) today introduced the Veterans Mental Health and Addiction Therapy Quality of Care Act, which would require an independent organization outside of the government to conduct a study to assess the quality of care veterans receive for mental and addiction health treatment from providers within and outside the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): ""The brave men and women who served our nation should never be denied access to the high-quality care they deserve,"" said Sen. Cornyn. ""This legislation recognizes the unique mental health challenges our veterans face and aims to improve the VA system by providing for an independent evaluation of the quality of life we’re providing for our nation’s bravest."" “Veterans who are living with mental health challenges deserve easy access to trained health care providers to get the support that they need,” said Sen. Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation will help veterans make informed choices about whether to seek mental health care through the VA or community providers, and provide guidance on how to improve outcomes for veterans who receive mental health care. I will continue working to make sure that Granite State veterans, whose great sacrifices have kept us free, receive the health care that they need.” ""It is critical the VA provides the highest quality mental health services to our veterans through implementing the best treatment practices available,"" said Sen. Tillis. ""This legislation enables the VA to improve its mental health services by studying best practices’ administered by non-VA providers. Veterans deserve the best care possible, and I am proud to cosponsor this legislation on behalf of the more than 600,000 veterans who call North Carolina home.” “We owe our veterans a huge debt of gratitude, and Congress must do everything we can to ensure those who have sacrificed so much for our country get the care and support they deserve,” said Sen. Bennet. “This bill is an important step toward understanding the barriers they face and improving access to high-quality substance abuse and mental health services for veterans across the country.” Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Representatives Pat Fallon (TX-04) and Sanford Bishop (GA-02). Background: The Department of Veterans Affairs is home to the nation’s largest integrated health care system that provides comprehensive health services to U.S. military veterans who are enrolled. However, recent estimates indicate that as many as 70% of VA-eligible veterans received their care from external providers. Given the high rate of veteran suicide due to mental and addiction health conditions, a study is needed to better understand if current practices provide our veterans with the best mental and addiction quality of care. The Veterans Mental Health and Addiction Therapy Quality of Care Act would require an independent and objective organization outside of the VA to conduct a study to: Analyze the results of comparable instances of addiction and mental health care between inside and outside providers using objective criteria such as symptom scores and suicide risk; Ascertain to what extent outside providers are using evidence-based practices in the treatment of addiction and mental health issues; Identify potential gaps in coordination between internal and external providers in responding to individuals seeking addiction or mental health care; Evaluate the availability of coordinated care for veterans who have separate or related conditions which may be impacting their mental health; Assess providers’ military cultural competency; Gauge the ease and flexibility of sharing medical records with a veteran’s health care team; Consider to what extent providers are conducting outcome monitoring throughout a veteran’s treatment to track progress or lack thereof; And measure overall patient satisfaction. The legislation is supported by the Disabled American Veterans Association, the American Psychological Association, and the Veteran Health Care Policy Initiative. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/grassley-colleagues-reignite-effort-to-improve-reporting-of-attacks-on-law-enforcement,"Grassley, Colleagues Reignite Effort to Improve Reporting of Attacks on Law Enforcement",2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, led bipartisan colleagues in reintroducing legislation to enhance information-gathering on attacks targeting law enforcement. The Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act (S.3522) would help fill identified gaps in reporting requirements for ambush-attacks against officers by increasing our understanding of these crimes and how they arise. The bill is cosponsored by Sens. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.). “Attacks on law enforcement officers are tragic and disgusting assaults on justice,” Grassley said. “We ought to do all we can to ensure the physical and mental well-being of the courageous officers who serve us. I’m proud to introduce this legislation to back the blue and learn how we can better protect those in uniform.” “Members of law enforcement help keep our communities safe and should be able to do their jobs without fear of being attacked. Through this legislation, the federal government will collect data on attacks and help us better understand motives and prevent them from happening. This is a critical effort to maintain positive relationships between law enforcement and those they serve,” Luján said. “Attacks on our law enforcement officers are abhorrent and we must get a clear picture on when they occur. I’m proud to co-introduce this bipartisan legislation so we can improve reporting and continue supporting the men and women in blue to prevent these disgusting acts,” Tillis said. “We must work together to reduce attacks on law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe,” Hassan said. “I am glad to help reintroduce this bipartisan legislation so that we can better protect these brave men and women and also improve public safety as a whole.” “Protecting law enforcement officers’ physical and mental health needs to be a priority,” Cassidy said. “They support us, we must support them. This legislation gives us the tools to better protect officers’ lives.” Background Tragically, 60 police officers were feloniously killed in the line of duty in 2022. Nearly 30 percent of police officer killings were the result of an unprovoked attack or ambush. While the government collects basic information on these attacks, such as when the attack occurred and what types of weapons were used, more information is needed to help law enforcement officers prepare for, identify and prevent future anti-police activity. The Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act would: Increase the categories of information that can be voluntarily reported regarding anti-police attacks, including the intention and coordination of perpetrators; Direct the Justice Department to explore adding escalatory aggression to its reports; and Shed light on the mental health and stress-related impacts of aggressive activity or trauma on law enforcement; and Explore the availability and extent to which mental health resources for officers are used. The bill is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Association of Police Officers, the Peace Officers Research Association of California, Sergeants Benevolent Association of the NYPD, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association and Major Counties Sheriffs of America.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/warren-baldwin-and-38-democratic-senators-introduce-resolution-affirming-support-for-fdas-scientific-judgment-that-medication-abortion-is-safe-and-effective,"Warren, Baldwin, and 38 Democratic Senators Introduce Resolution Affirming Support for FDA’s Scientific Judgment That Medication Abortion Is Safe and Effective",2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.) led 38 other lawmakers in introducing a resolution in support of equitable, science-based policies governing access to medication abortion. Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, reproductive rights have been increasingly under attack, with more than a dozen states banning or restricting access to abortion care, and anti-abortion extremists attempting to ban medication abortion nationwide. Medication abortion is currently used for over half of all abortions. This resolution expresses the sense of Congress that the scientific judgment of the FDA that mifepristone is safe and effective should be respected, and that law and policy governing access to life-saving, time-sensitive medication abortion care in the United States should be equitable and based on science. The resolution affirms that mifepristone is safe and effective, while acknowledging the significant harm that would be posed to both health care providers and patients across the nation if mifepristone were sharply curtailed. This action comes as Americans continue to grapple with the reversal of Roe v. Wade, and follows this week’s announcement that the Supreme Court will hear a challenge to medication abortion access. “I am fed up with extremists trying to turn back the clock and deny women reproductive health care – especially after decades of science that show that medication abortion is safe and effective. Any threat to the accessibility of this drug would be devastating to both health care providers and patients across the country, and Senate Democrats are demonstrating with this resolution that we're determined to fight back,” said Senator Warren. “In Wisconsin and across the country, the right to comprehensive health care is under attack. We need to fight on all fronts to restore and protect the freedom of every American to make their own health care decisions, and that includes protecting access to medication abortion. Mifepristone is a safe, effective, and sometimes lifesaving medication, and it’s high time politicians and judges leave women alone and allow Americans to make their own decisions about their health, families, and future,” said Senator Baldwin. “MAGA Republicans have been clear they’ll stop at nothing to enact a national abortion plan – even questioning the scientific expertise of FDA. Make no mistake, Mifepristone is safe and effective. And Congress gave FDA the authority to evaluate and ensure the safety and efficacy of drugs. Democrats will never stop fighting for women’s health,” said Senate Majority Leader Schumer. “In a post-Roe world, we must follow the science and maintain access to lifesaving abortion medication,” said Senator Butler. “Generations of women are watching their rights get stripped away in real-time, and this resolution underscores the need to protect their reproductive freedom. The Supreme Court must preserve access to essential reproductive health care and the right to bodily autonomy.” “Health care decisions should be made between women and their doctors, and we must protect women’s access to all FDA-approved treatments, including Mifepristone,” said Senator Carper. “This resolution reaffirms that access to lifesaving, time-sensitive medication should be equitable and based on science.” “As many women across America continue to be understandably afraid that the far-right Supreme Court—one that already threw out 50 years of constitutional rights by overturning Roe—will soon weigh in on the future of Mifepristone and might limit their right to access reproductive care even further, I’m proud to join my Senate Democratic colleagues to send an important message that we will do everything we can to protect reproductive freedom for every woman in every state,” said Senator Duckworth. “More than two decades ago, the FDA determined mifepristone to be safe and effective. Since then, this medication has been widely and safely used by women to end early stage pregnancies and help manage miscarriages,” said Senator Durbin. “If the Supreme Court upholds the Fifth Circuit’s decision, which ignored science and the law in turning back the clock on mifepristone regulations, it would upend the FDA review process, jeopardize access to a host of critically important medications, and impose new restrictions on abortions even in states where the procedure remains legal. This Resolution restates the obvious: that the FDA, not politically-motivated organizations, should be trusted to make determinations about what drugs are safe and effective. And that, ultimately, reproductive health care decisions ought to be made between women and their doctors, not politicians or judges.” “A woman’s right to make decisions about abortion must include access to medication proven to be effective and safe,” said Senator Kelly. “Limiting access to mifepristone is not based in science and would take our country further backwards. We must protect the right to reproductive health care in Arizona and across the country.” “It’s plain and simple: abortion is health care, and health care is a human right,” said Senator Markey. “Pregnant people and their health care providers are facing escalating attacks on their care including the criminalization of abortions. Our government has a moral obligation to protect not only the right but also the ability to access abortion medication — safe and effective medication that is backed by science. Let’s keep medical decisions between patients and doctors—not between patients and the GOP.” “Mifepristone is a safe, effective drug approved by the FDA more than 20 years ago that millions of women rely on, so it should come as no surprise it’s been chosen as the right wing’s next target. Cutting off access to medication abortion would bring us one step closer to a national abortion ban. I will keep fighting to keep government out of women’s health care,” said Senator Murphy. “Reproductive freedom is a fundamental right, and we must stand resolute in affirming access to lifesaving abortion care,” said Senator Padilla. “With the Supreme Court and MAGA Republicans constantly threatening longstanding, essential reproductive freedoms, it’s imperative that safe, science-based drugs like mifepristone are equitably accessible and protected to the fullest extent under the rule of law.” “Women in Nevada and across the country have safely used Mifepristone for decades,” said Senator Rosen. “Extreme anti-choice politicians’ lawsuit to ban it is the latest attempt by anti-choice extremists to ban abortion and tell women what to do with their own bodies. I’m joining my colleagues in a resolution to make clear that banning this safe medication will have dire consequences for women across our country.” “It’s a slippery slope when politicians and judges start making medical decisions about the safety of drugs. These decisions should rightly be determined by doctors and scientists,” said Senator Stabenow. “Individuals’ health care decisions should be grounded in science and made along with their doctors – not left to the whims of far-right judges and politicians. As Trump-appointed judges and Republican lawmakers continue their ruthless attacks on reproductive freedoms – and the health care providers and resources that support them – we will keep fighting to ensure scientifically tested, safe, and effective options remain accessible to everyone who needs them,” said Senator Van Hollen. The resolution was also co-sponored by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ron Wyden (D-Wyo.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-N.M.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Kyrsten Sinema (Ariz.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.). The resolution has been endorsed by Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Power to Decide, National Council of Jewish Women, The Century Foundation’s Health Equity and Reform Team, National Partnership for Women and Families, Guttmacher Institute, Center for Reproductive Rights, Reproductive Freedom for All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, and the EMAA Project. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-votes-for-military-pay-raise-and-key-national-defense-priorities,Pappas Votes for Military Pay Raise and Key National Defense Priorities,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC - Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) voted to pass the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024. The legislation, passed on a bipartisan basis, authorizes key national defense priorities and provides for a 5.2% pay raise for U.S. service members, bolsters national security, and strengthens U.S. supply chains by investing in domestic manufacturing. ""At a time when America faces many challenges across the globe, passing the National Defense Authorization Act is essential to ensuring the safety and security of the American people and standing firm with our allies abroad,"" said Congressman Pappas. ""This authorization includes the pay raise our troops deserve, will strengthen America's national security, and invest in key New Hampshire priorities, including addressing PFAS contamination and bolstering the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. I urge President Biden to sign this legislation into law at once, and I remain committed to making the safety and security of Americans my top priority in Congress."" The 2024 National Defense Authorization Act includes several provisions Pappas fought for, including:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/12/14/2023/passed-the-senate-annual-defense-bill-with-key-hassan-backed-provisions,PASSED THE SENATE: Annual Defense Bill with Key Hassan-Backed Provisions,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate passed the final bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024, which includes key national security provisions that Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) secured and supported. The bill includes a 5.2 percent pay raise for U.S. service members and specifically includes bipartisan measures that Senator Hassan authored to provide parental leave parity for Reserve and National Guard members and prepare for emerging national security threats posed by quantum technology. “We must do everything that we can to support our service members and their mission to protect our national security,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan bill includes measures to get our service members the pay and benefits they deserve, invests in New Hampshire’s military institutions, and will help keep our country safe, secure, and free.” “I am also pleased that the final version of this year’s defense bill includes my bipartisan bill to provide paid leave parity for those in the National Guard and Reserves, as well as my bipartisan bill to prepare for threats posed by quantum technology,” said Senator Hassan. “Parental leave should be available to all new parents, and service members in the Reserves and the National Guard should have the same access to parental leave as those serving on active duty – this bill will ensure that is the case. Additionally, quantum technology has major national security implications, including the potential for our adversaries to use it to decrypt encrypted messages and data, and my bipartisan bill will expand our country’s efforts to stay ahead of our adversaries and respond to these threats while taking advantage of the opportunities presented by quantum technology.” Key measures that Senator Hassan supported that are included in the NDAA: Senator Hassan’s bipartisan bill introduced with Senator Lisa Murkowski to expand parental leave eligibility for Reserve and National Guard members to cover all new parents. The legislation included in the NDAA ensures that beginning October 2024, drilling members of the National Guard and Reserves can take the equivalent of up to 12 weeks of parental leave when adopting or fostering children, or when their spouse has a child, just as birth mothers and those serving on active duty are able to. Senator Hassan and Senator John Thune (R-SD)’s bipartisan measures to prepare for national security threats posed by emerging quantum technology. The provisions will: Expand existing public-private talent exchange programs in the Defense Department to include private sector entities working on quantum technology research & applications Authorize a fellowship program in the Defense Department for students focusing on quantum information science and technology research Support for military spouses by allowing executive agencies to appoint spouses of service members to remote work positions, legislation that Senator Hassan cosponsored Strengthening of our nation’s security posture by working more closely with allies and partners, including in the Indo-Pacific region, a priority of Senator Hassan’s Improvements of addiction care resources for those serving in the military, including efforts to help expand access to naloxone and expanding research into alternatives to opioids for pain management Prohibitions on military contracts with entities who have fossil fuel operations in Russia Increased overtime pay rates for members of the U.S. Border Patrol Support for NH priorities that are included in the NDAA: Authorizing multiyear procurement for the next block of Virginia-class submarines, which are maintained at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Support for the Multi-Mission Dry Dock Expansion at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Multiple provisions to address PFAS contamination in military communities and continue studies into the health effects of PFAS ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-leads-bipartisan-resolution-condemning-hamas-use-of-sexual-violence-during-october-7th-terrorist-attack-on-israel,Shaheen Leads Bipartisan Resolution Condemning Hamas’ Use of Sexual Violence During October 7th Terrorist Attack on Israel,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, is leading a bipartisan resolution with U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-AL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Deb Fischer (R-NE) to condemn Hamas for using sexual and gender-based violence as a weapon of war against Israelis during the October 7th terrorist attack. U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Bob Casey (D-PA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Angus King (I-ME), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Mark Warner (D-VA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Michael Bennet (D-CO) joined Shaheen, Britt, Gillibrand and Fischer on the resolution. “The deliberate use of rape and sexual violence as a weapon of war by Hamas terrorists against the people of Israel is atrocious,” said Senator Shaheen. “Footage and first-hand accounts of the horrors that happened to Israeli women, men and children on October 7th demonstrate that these actions – which are war crimes under international convention – were intended to torture, humiliate and oppress the victims. I’m proud to join with my colleagues, including Senator Britt, to introduce a bipartisan resolution that strongly condemns the barbaric attacks of October 7th and the sexual and gender-based violence carried out by Hamas against the people of Israel. The international community must continue to stand against rape as a weapon of war in all conflict settings.” “When I visited Israel with a bipartisan group of my colleagues in the wake of October 7, we were shown the footage of the atrocities committed by Hamas terrorists. As a mother, as a daughter, as a sister, and as an American, I was absolutely horrified by the acts of pure evil carried out against innocent Israeli women and young girls. These reprehensible, barbaric acts of sexual violence have no place in our world and must be unequivocally and universally condemned. I am proud to stand alongside Senator Shaheen and our Senate colleagues in condemning Hamas’ evil and making it clear that the United States of America will not stand for these atrocities anywhere,” said Senator Britt. “I condemn in the strongest terms possible the horrific and barbaric acts of rape and sexual violence committed on October 7th by Hamas. For centuries, rape, sexual mutilation, sexual violence have played a grotesque role in the subjugation and suppression of the Jewish people. Rape has been used as a weapon of war for centuries — a deliberate form of torture that serves to dehumanize and terrorize not just women, but the entire community. This bipartisan resolution tells the world that Congress will not stay silent in the face of these atrocities. Rather, we will denounce them and will not rest until there is accountability for these evil crimes against humanity,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Some events are so evil they cannot be ignored or explained away—they should unite us in condemnation, speaking in one, human voice,” said Senator Fischer. “And yet, in the wake of mass rape on October 7th, human rights activists became terror apologists, while women’s groups turned their backs on thousands of Israeli women. Every organization that has denied or ignored Hamas’s war crimes must speak out and help bring justice to the perpetrators.” Full text of the resolution can be found here. Shaheen has long championed the rights of women and girls to live free of violence. She lead the re-introduction of the International Violence Against Women Act last year and leads the bipartisan introduction of the International Women’s Day resolution in the U.S. Senate each year. Shaheen is the author of the Women, Peace and Security Act, which was signed into law in 2017 and ensures women’s leadership roles in conflict resolution and peace negotiations. She has also led bipartisan efforts to address the unique barriers faced by young girls in developing countries in accessing a full education. Additionally, Shaheen is a strong supporter of Israel, having swiftly condemned Hamas on October 7th and calling for enduring support for Israel. She also joined letters calling for the release of the American hostages in Gaza, support for a strong humanitarian response in Gaza and a safe pathway to safety for Americans stuck in Gaza. She has urged the Biden administration to encourage Israel to provide more detailed information on its strategy to defeat Hamas while protecting innocent civilians in Gaza. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-welcomes-over-16-million-in-dod-funds-headed-to-dartmouth-college-and-unh,NH Delegation Welcomes Over $1.6 Million in DoD Funds Headed to Dartmouth College and UNH,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation announced that a total of $1,641,032 in Department of Defense (DoD) federal funds are going to Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire (UNH). These funds were awarded through the DoD’s Defense University Research Instrumentation Program (DURIP) and will be used for advanced research and development of new technology supporting defense and workforce enhancements across the country. “Our universities across New Hampshire continue to accomplish groundbreaking work that strengthens our national security and supports our armed forces,” said Congressman Pappas. “This funding from the Department of Defense will help facilitate innovative research by New Hampshire universities, furthering our technological advancements as well as studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.” “I’m proud that New Hampshire’s advanced innovation is being recognized by new investments in research and projects that will bolster our national security and promote economic development,” said Senator Shaheen, senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee. “These awards headed to Dartmouth and UNH will play a crucial role in supporting new technological developments that will help keep New Hampshire at the cutting edge of defense manufacturing for generations to come.” “I am excited to see federal funding heading to Dartmouth and UNH to grow their research capabilities. New Hampshire is a leader in innovation, and I’m glad that these Granite State institutions will be able to advance their cutting-edge research to help keep our country safe, secure, and free,” said Senator Hassan. “New Hampshire universities, researchers, and students are leading our country and the world forward through their work and innovation,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “I’m thrilled to see this significant funding heading to Dartmouth and the University of New Hampshire to take their research to the next level. I will always fight to strengthen our STEM workforce and programs.” The awards are as follows: $829,373 to the University of New Hampshire to support the research and development of a high-speed camera system for observing the streamer to leader transitions in lightning; $588,609 to Dartmouth College to support their project: SuperDARN Digital Imaging Enhancement to Resolve Smaller Scales and Enable Multi-Mode Operation; $223,050 to Dartmouth College to support the Kurt Lesker PVD 75 System for screening and prototyping long carrier lifetime infrared semiconductors. Through DURIP, DoD supports purchases of major research equipment to augment current and develop new capabilities. This investment enables universities to perform state-of-the-art research that boosts the nation’s technological advantage, while ensuring that our future science, technology, engineering, and mathematics workforce remains second to none.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-applauds-pact-act-milestone-urges-nh-veterans-to-file-claim,"Pappas Applauds PACT Act Milestone, Urges NH Veterans to File Claim",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, celebrated the news that five million veterans have been screened for toxic exposure since the PACT Act became law. Pappas continues to urge New Hampshire veterans to contact his office, VA, or a VA-recognized VSO to learn more about how to file a claim under the PACT Act and get screened. “The PACT Act finally recognizes toxic exposure as a cost of war and addresses its impacts on service members, and I was proud to fight for this legislation that expands eligibility for 3.5 million veterans,"" said Congressman Chris Pappas. “To date, thousands of New Hampshire veterans have filed PACT Act-related claims and have enrolled in VA care for the first time. Our service members already faced numerous threats to life and limb during their time in uniform, and they shouldn’t have to fight another battle when their service ends to get the care they have earned. This is an important milestone, but we know there is more work to do until every toxic-exposed veteran gets the care they need. I continue to urge New Hampshire veterans to file a claim as soon as possible and encourage anyone with questions to contact our office for assistance.” Background: Congressman Pappas was an original cosponsor of the Honoring our PACT Act, which included Pappas’s VA Workforce Investment and Expansion Act, which expands VA workforce by enhancing hiring practices and incentives to recruit and retain health care professionals. It was signed into law in August 2022. Pappas has led the fight in Congress to ensure the PACT Act is implemented quickly and effectively. Earlier this year, Pappas helped lead a subcommittee hearing that focused on the implementation of the PACT Act. In March, he questioned Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough on several key issues facing Granite State veterans, including PACT implementation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-help-caregivers-save-for-retirement,Pappas Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Help Caregivers Save for Retirement,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) introduced the Expanding Access to Retirement Savings for Caregivers Act with Rep. Debbie Lesko (AZ-08). The bill would allow individuals that took at least one year out of the workforce without receiving an earned income, for the purposes of caring for a family member, to make catch-up contributions in years prior to age 50 to their 401(k) plans, individual retirement accounts (IRAs), and other eligible retirement accounts. “Individuals who leave the workforce to provide care for a loved one should not be penalized on their retirement and forced to do more with less later in life,"" said Congressman Pappas. ""This bipartisan legislation will allow caregivers to make catch-up payments to their 401Ks, IRAs, and other accounts so they don’t lose out on valuable retirement savings as a result of the time they took to help a family member in need."" “Many individuals across the country take time away from work to care for a loved one, which can result in missed opportunities to save for retirement,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Those who make such a difficult sacrifice should not be unfairly penalized. Our bipartisan bill would allow caregivers to put their families first without having to miss out on valuable retirement contributions. This would help us move away from a system that disadvantages caregivers and instead offer additional tools for them to contribute to their retirement savings.” Background: Under current law, only employees aged 50 and older are eligible to utilize catch-up contributions to make additional deposits to their 401(k) plans, individual retirement accounts (IRAs), and other eligible retirement accounts. Although using catch-up contributions can be an important mechanism for many Americans to expand their retirement savings, it can still not be enough for individuals that take time out of the workforce to care for family members. These individuals often miss opportunities to save for their retirement for multiple years. This disparity predominantly impacts women, since women are more likely to take more time to act as family caregivers full-time. The Expanding Access to Retirement Savings for Family Caregivers Act would remedy this element of the retirement system that penalizes caregivers, and introduce new tools for them to contribute to their retirement savings.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-leads-bipartisan-letter-calling-for-army-to-protect-green-to-gold-program-participants-benefits,Pappas Leads Bipartisan Letter Calling for Army to Protect Green to Gold Program Participants’ Benefits,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congressman James Moylan (GU-AL), sent a bipartisan letter to the Army expressing concerns about its new policy to no longer recognize servicemembers participation in the Army’s Green-to-Gold (G2G) Active Duty Option Program toward Time in Service (TIS), which determines future pay and retirement benefits. These changes, published in April 2023, have raised significant issues for the most recent class, many of whom applied with the expectation that they would continue to accrue TIS during their participation in the G2G Program as has historically been allowed. “When I first heard about the impact of these changes from one of my constituents in the First District, I knew something needed to be done to ensure these committed soldiers accrue the Time in Service they expected upon entering the Green to Gold program,” said Congressman Pappas. “Soldiers who participate in this program have already dedicated themselves to serving our country, and commit to remaining on Active Duty while enrolled. To change the expectations for this year’s class after they have already enrolled in the program is unfair, and the Army ought to reverse course.” “Green to Gold soldiers have already faithfully served their nation and continue to demonstrate devotion to the Army extending their service to become Army Officers. Having served myself as an Army Officer, I know the value that these soldiers bring to the force, and they should be afforded the 21 months time they were promised when they enrolled in the program,” said Congressman Moylan. “I am committed to our armed forces, and I ask Cadet Command to reconsider the regulation that impacts the lives of deserving soldiers.” The G2G Active Duty Program offers eligible enlisted active duty Army soldiers the opportunity to pursue a degree and become commissioned Army officers upon the attainment of their degree. The Army has traditionally counted soldier time enrolled in university as part of TIS for both pay and retirement purposes, making the program a popular pathway to advancement within the Army while also enabling servicemembers to obtain a degree. On April 28, 2023, the U.S. Army Cadet Command revised its ROTC Program policies, including the G2G Active Duty Option Program. This marks a stark departure from the Army’s prior application of its authority under the law regarding TIS accrual during program participation. The letter can be read here and below: Dear Secretary Wormuth, I write to express my concerns about recent regulatory changes to the Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) policy regarding Time in Service (TIS) recognition for servicemembers participating in the Green-to-Gold (G2G) Active Duty Option Program. These changes, published in April 2023, have raised significant issues for the most recent class, many of whom applied with the expectation that they would continue to accrue TIS during their participation in the G2G Program as has historically been allowed. Accordingly, I strongly urge you to grant an exception for the most recent class of the G2G Active Duty Option Program and exclude them from the impact of the new TIS policy. The G2G Active Duty Program offers eligible enlisted active duty Army soldiers the opportunity to pursue a degree and subsequently become commissioned Army officers upon the attainment of their degree. Upon acceptance into the program, soldiers enroll at a university for 21 months to complete their degree while concurrently fulfilling the final four semesters of the university’s ROTC program, all while remaining on Active Duty orders. The Army has traditionally counted the 21 months as part of TIS for both pay and retirement purposes, making the program one of the most attractive pathways to advancement within the Army while also enabling servicemembers to obtain a degree. However, on April 28, 2023, the U.S. Army Cadet Command released Army Regulation (AR) 145-1, revising ROTC Program policies, including the G2G Active Duty Option Program. The publication explicitly states that current law prohibits the inclusion of “any accrued time period” as a participant in the ROTC program for the purpose of “20-year retirement eligibility/benefits.” Furthermore, it stipulates that “the time spent…may not be used to compute either time in service for pay purposes, or in computing years of service for retirement.” While federal law provides the Army such discretionary authority concerning the inclusion of a servicemember’s time in the program, this policy revision marks a stark departure from the Army’s prior application of its authority under the law regarding TIS accrual during program participation. This change poses substantial impacts for the most recent class of participants, who were selected prior to the policy revision and had applied with the expectation that their TIS would continue to accumulate during their time in the program as it had for previous classes. Participation in the G2G Active Duty Program will no longer count toward eligibility for both pay and retirement benefits, significantly affecting their careers and financial security. They are now unfairly facing threats to their future pay and retirement benefits, with withdrawal from this popular and prestigious program as their sole alternative. For example, an individual selected for the program must now serve a minimum of 22 years to qualify for the same retirement benefits that their counterparts receive at 20 years. Additionally, it will adversely impact their pay rates. For instance, if a prior enlisted servicemember has a TIS of four years and one day at the time of commissioning, they are entitled to a base pay rate according to the O1-E scale, a separate pay scale that accounts for prior service time. However, if the 21 months spent in the program are not considered in TIS calculations, servicemembers may miss qualifying for that pay scale, potentially depriving them of an additional $1,000 per month in pay. According to AR 145-1, the Deputy Chief of Staff “has the authority to approve exceptions or waivers to this regulation.” While the Army has the right to enact policy revisions and exercise its authority under existing law, these changes should apply only to individuals selected after the publication of the revised policy. This approach would enable prospective applicants to make fully informed decisions based on the new policy. In light of these considerations, I strongly urge the Department of the Army to grant an exception for the most recent class of the G2G Active Duty Option Program and exempt them from the adverse consequences of the new TIS policy. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I appreciate your dedication to our servicemembers and your commitment to ensuring fairness within the military. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/gillibrand-cassidy-houlahan-bice-lead-bipartisan-bicameral-paid-leave-working-group-to-request-input-on-paid-leave-proposal,"GILLIBRAND, CASSIDY, HOULAHAN, BICE LEAD BIPARTISAN, BICAMERAL PAID LEAVE WORKING GROUP TO REQUEST INPUT ON PAID LEAVE PROPOSAL",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Stephanie Bice (R-OK) led a strong bipartisan, bicameral group to request information from experts, researchers, organizations and others on a bipartisan paid leave proposal. Gillibrand and Cassidy were joined by Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) and Todd Young (R-IN) and Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Stephanie Bice (R-OK) and Representatives Colin Allred (D-TX), Julia Letlow (R-LA), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) and Haley Stevens (D-MI). The lawmakers sent the letter to a wide range of individuals, organizations, researchers, policy experts, and others to request suggestions for expanding access to paid parental, caregiving, and personal medical leave in a bipartisan, fiscally responsible and sustainable way. “The United States is the only industrialized nation without any form of national paid leave and it hurts our families, our health and our economy,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The overwhelming majority of Americans support paid leave and believe it’s good for families as well as for business. I am proud to partner with this strong group of bipartisan lawmakers and I look forward to using input from a wide range of experts to shape our proposal.” “Americans often face the impossible choice between caring for a newborn child and returning to work to make a living,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We want to hear from parents, experts, and business leaders to help form a solution that works for families without placing a burden on businesses. This request is an important step in that direction.” “The lack of paid family leave continues to impact our workforce and economy,” said Rep. Stephanie Bice, Co-Chair of the House Paid Family Leave Working Group. “Finding solutions that work for both individuals and businesses is critical. Today’s RFI will guarantee that we are considering the vast complexities needed to ensure that any paid leave policy promoted in Washington works as intended. I appreciate the support of my colleagues both in the House and Senate and look forward to continuing to work to find solutions.” ""I was a young Lieutenant in the Air Force when I first became a mom,"" said Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, Co-Chair of the House Paid Family Leave Working Group. ""I didn't have access to comprehensive paid family leave, and that stress, combined with child care issues on base, is a large part of what led me to separate from active duty. For our service members and all Americans, we must do better. Whether taking care of an elderly parent, or bonding with a newborn, support for paid family leave is at historic levels across the nation and across both chambers of Congress. It is that momentum that helped lead us here today. This bicameral, bipartisan RFI is a first-of-its-kind effort and a great next step as we advocate for and pass enduring policy solutions."" “No one should have to choose between caring for their family or earning a paycheck – but this is sadly the reality for so many, especially women,” said Senator Hassan. “I am glad to be part of this working group to examine a diverse, bipartisan array of options for expanding paid leave and ensuring that all Americans are able to have the support that they need for their families.” “As a father, grandfather, and former caregiver to my grandmother who suffered from Alzheimer’s, I know first-hand the value of family and medical leave, and the positive impact it has on individuals and workforce development” said Senator Tillis. “Parents, families, and economic productivity thrive when employees don’t have to choose between taking care of their family and participating in the workforce. I’m proud to work on a bipartisan basis to pursue family and medical leave policies that will support millions of families across North Carolina and the country.” “Hardworking Arizonans deserve access to paid leave when caring for themselves or a loved one. We are working on fiscally-responsible and sustainable solutions supporting hardworking Arizonans, their families, and employers,” said Senator Sinema. “Employers across our nation are struggling to fill open positions, and it is imperative that we evaluate how a paid family leave solution can help address this challenge. I have long supported opportunities for the federal government to partner with states and employers to provide greater flexibility for working parents. I look forward to joining with this group to develop a bipartisan, fiscally responsible solution that supports Hoosier families,” said Senator Todd Young. “As the first member of Congress to take paternity leave, I know that access to paid family leave is invaluable and that it’s past time every American had the ability to be with their new baby or care for a loved one in need,” said Congressman Allred (TX-32). “This shouldn’t be a partisan issue, and I’m proud to join my colleagues from both sides of the aisle and in both chambers to learn more about how we can best deliver for the American people on this critical issue.” “On an issue as important as paid family leave, I’m grateful to be working with my colleagues in a bipartisan effort to receive diverse input from stakeholders for our working families and businesses,” said Rep. Letlow (R-LA) “Paid leave fosters a healthier, more engaged workforce, supports business growth and stability, and contributes to the overall prosperity of the American economy” said Representative Miller-Meeks (R-IA). “This bipartisan, bicameral request for information will help identify ways in which we can implement federal policy to improve paid family leave for employers and small businesses nationwide.” “Paid leave is essential to ensuring that American families have the support they need and our economy retains a competitive edge in the 21st century,” said Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI). “Without paid leave, families struggle to welcome new children, recover from child birth, or care for loved ones at the end of life. It means we lose knowledgeable, skilled workers, particularly women, that could help move our economy forward. I welcome this request for information and look forward to incorporating these recommendations into our bipartisan recommended paid leave policy.” The full letter can be found here and below. December 13, 2023 To Whom It May Concern: As members of the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional working group exploring solutions to expand access to paid leave for all Americans, we write with strong interest in hearing diverse stakeholder input. To inform our efforts, we invite individuals, organizations, researchers, policy experts, and others, to share your suggestions for expanding access to paid parental, caregiving, and personal medical leave in a bipartisan, fiscally responsible and sustainable way. We will closely review submissions to help inform ongoing bipartisan efforts, and individual submissions will be kept confidential. Please note, trustworthy data and research with proper citations will be appreciated. We invite your response to the following: What should the federal role be, if any, in providing, promoting, and/or incentivizing paid leave? And how should this interact with the role of state government programs, and/or employer programs? What types of leave should a potential federal program cover, at what length, and why? How should different types of leave be prioritized? Should different types of leave be treated differently or does doing so create adverse effects? Please describe your recommended framework/s, focusing on what you believe could be a bipartisan and passable solution/s to expanding paid leave nationally? Please describe alternative ways any proposed framework can be financed, including possible payfors. What financial mechanisms should be considered to expand paid leave? How can proposed paid leave frameworks avoid creating unintended distortions, such as marriage penalties, reductions of private sector paid leave coverage, etc.? Should government support for paid leave be focused only on the most vulnerable individuals in our society, or on all Americans regardless of means or need? What supports do small and mid-sized businesses need from the federal government to provide paid leave to workers? What does research say about the impact of providing paid leave on worker health, job satisfaction, economic mobility, child development, breastfeeding rates and related health outcomes, fertility rate, infant mortality, elderly health, public assistance levels, family income, and recruitment and retention efforts? What lessons should the federal government learn from successful or failed attempts at expanding paid leave in U.S. states or other countries? What other information would you like us to consider as we attempt to chart a bipartisan path forward? ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/nh-delegation-welcomes-over-16-million-in-dod-funds-headed-to-dartmouth-college-and-unh,NH Delegation Welcomes Over $1.6 Million in DoD Funds Headed to Dartmouth College and UNH,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), along with U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01), are announcing that a total of $1,641,032 in Department of Defense (DoD) federal funds are going to Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire (UNH). These funds were awarded through the DoD’s Defense University Research Instrumentation Program (DURIP) and will be used for advanced research and development of new technology supporting defense and workforce enhancements across the country. “I’m proud that New Hampshire’s advanced innovation is being recognized by new investments in research and projects that will bolster our national security and promote economic development,” said Senator Shaheen, senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee. “These awards headed to Dartmouth and UNH will play a crucial role in supporting new technological developments that will help keep New Hampshire at the cutting edge of defense manufacturing for generations to come.” “I am excited to see federal funding heading to Dartmouth and UNH to grow their research capabilities. New Hampshire is a leader in innovation, and I’m glad that these Granite State institutions will be able to advance their cutting-edge research to help keep our country safe, secure, and free,” said Senator Hassan. “New Hampshire universities, researchers, and students are leading our country and the world forward through their work and innovation,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “I’m thrilled to see this significant funding heading to Dartmouth and the University of New Hampshire to take their research to the next level. I will always fight to strengthen our STEM workforce and programs.” “Our universities across New Hampshire continue to accomplish groundbreaking work that strengthens our national security and supports our armed forces,” said Congressman Pappas. “This funding from the Department of Defense will help facilitate innovative research by New Hampshire universities, furthering our technological advancements as well as studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.” The awards are as follows: $829,373 to the University of New Hampshire to support the research and development of a high-speed camera system for observing the streamer to leader transitions in lightning; $588,609 to Dartmouth College to support their project: SuperDARN Digital Imaging Enhancement to Resolve Smaller Scales and Enable Multi-Mode Operation; $223,050 to Dartmouth Collegeto support the Kurt Lesker PVD 75 System for screening and prototyping long carrier lifetime infrared semiconductors. Through DURIP, DoD supports purchases of major research equipment to augment current and develop new capabilities. This investment enables universities to perform state-of-the-art research that boosts the nation’s technological advantage, while ensuring that our future science, technology, engineering, and mathematics workforce remains second to none. Senator Shaheen is a leader in the U.S. Senate to bolster the domestic defense industrial base to ensure U.S. troops have the cutting-edge equipment they need to defend the nation and deter adversaries. In early June,?Shaheen toured three New Hampshire defense manufacturing facilities?and met with the companies’ leadership ahead of a bipartisan congressional delegation visit to the Paris Air Show. Earlier this week, Senators Shaheen and Hassan, as well as Rep. Pappas, visited BAE Systems to highlight how $35 million in funds allocated through the?CHIPS and Science Act?is helping to produce technology essential to the defense industry and critical to national security. ?? ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/following-shaheen-advocacy-uspto-establishes-northern-new-england-community-outreach-office-in-new-hampshire,"Following Shaheen Advocacy, USPTO Establishes Northern New England Community Outreach Office in New Hampshire",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, applauded the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)’s decision to establish the Northern New England Community Outreach Office (NNECOO) in Strafford County, New Hampshire. This announcement comes after Shaheen sent a letter to USPTO Director Kathi Vidal advocating for the office’s establishment in New Hampshire. “The Granite State has a fast growing innovation ecosystem and the establishment of this Northern New England Community Outreach Office in New Hampshire is going to help accelerate efforts to develop and diversify that ecosystem,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m grateful that Director Vidal and the USPTO leadership heeded my calls to select New Hampshire as this hub for entrepreneurs and innovators across New England, and I look forward to seeing how this helps spur more economic development here and across the region.” This announcement comes as part of the Unleashing American Innovators Act of 2022, which directed the USPTO to establish a community outreach office in the northern New England region within five years of enactment. Community outreach offices “partner with community organizations, institutions of higher education, research institutions, and businesses to create community-based programs that provide education regarding the patent system” and “promote career benefits of innovation and entrepreneurship.” The decision on the location for the Northern New England community outreach office was based on the following criteria: Located in an area with at least one public and one private institution of higher education; In a jurisdiction with 15 or fewer registered patent attorneys; In a jurisdiction where women, minorities, and veteran-owned businesses comprise less than 45% of total business ownership. The area of Strafford County, New Hampshire was selected for its diversity in business ownership and number of private and public higher education institutions near the area. The new office will join the current USPTO offices in Alexandria, Dallas, Denver, Detroit and San Jose. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/nh-delegation-welcomes-over-16-million-in-dod-funds-headed-to-dartmouth-college-and-unh,NH Delegation Welcomes Over $1.6 Million in DoD Funds Headed to Dartmouth College and UNH,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), along with U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01), are announcing that a total of $1,641,032 in Department of Defense (DoD) federal funds are going to Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire (UNH). These funds were awarded through the DoD’s Defense University Research Instrumentation Program (DURIP) and will be used for advanced research and development of new technology supporting defense and workforce enhancements across the country. “I’m proud that New Hampshire’s advanced innovation is being recognized by new investments in research and projects that will bolster our national security and promote economic development,” said Senator Shaheen, senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee. “These awards headed to Dartmouth and UNH will play a crucial role in supporting new technological developments that will help keep New Hampshire at the cutting edge of defense manufacturing for generations to come.” “I am excited to see federal funding heading to Dartmouth and UNH to grow their research capabilities. New Hampshire is a leader in innovation, and I’m glad that these Granite State institutions will be able to advance their cutting-edge research to help keep our country safe, secure, and free,” said Senator Hassan. “New Hampshire universities, researchers, and students are leading our country and the world forward through their work and innovation,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “I’m thrilled to see this significant funding heading to Dartmouth and the University of New Hampshire to take their research to the next level. I will always fight to strengthen our STEM workforce and programs.” “Our universities across New Hampshire continue to accomplish groundbreaking work that strengthens our national security and supports our armed forces,” said Congressman Pappas. “This funding from the Department of Defense will help facilitate innovative research by New Hampshire universities, furthering our technological advancements as well as studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.” The awards are as follows: $829,373 to the University of New Hampshire to support the research and development of a high-speed camera system for observing the streamer to leader transitions in lightning; $588,609 to Dartmouth College to support their project: SuperDARN Digital Imaging Enhancement to Resolve Smaller Scales and Enable Multi-Mode Operation; $223,050 to Dartmouth Collegeto support the Kurt Lesker PVD 75 System for screening and prototyping long carrier lifetime infrared semiconductors. Through DURIP, DoD supports purchases of major research equipment to augment current and develop new capabilities. This investment enables universities to perform state-of-the-art research that boosts the nation’s technological advantage, while ensuring that our future science, technology, engineering, and mathematics workforce remains second to none. Senator Shaheen is a leader in the U.S. Senate to bolster the domestic defense industrial base to ensure U.S. troops have the cutting-edge equipment they need to defend the nation and deter adversaries. In early June,?Shaheen toured three New Hampshire defense manufacturing facilities?and met with the companies’ leadership ahead of a bipartisan congressional delegation visit to the Paris Air Show. Earlier this week, Senators Shaheen and Hassan, as well as Rep. Pappas, visited BAE Systems to highlight how $35 million in funds allocated through the?CHIPS and Science Act?is helping to produce technology essential to the defense industry and critical to national security. ?? ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-applauds-senate-passage-of-fy-2024-defense-bill-highlights-key-wins-for-new-hampshire,"Shaheen Applauds Senate Passage of FY 2024 Defense Bill, Highlights Key Wins for New Hampshire",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) — U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year (FY) 2024. Through her leadership, Shaheen secured several key priorities that respond directly to issues facing New Hampshire as well as top national security concerns for the United States. “The annual defense bill is an opportunity to advance our country’s national security goals and address issues facing Granite State families. In this bill, I’m proud to have secured funding and policies that will solidify New Hampshire’s important role in supporting our national defense, including completing important construction projects at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and investing in the Granite State’s defense industrial base,” said Senator Shaheen. “The bill also better equips our country to respond to evolving challenges overseas—from supporting Ukraine to strengthening our leadership in the Indo-Pacific. I look forward to swift passage by the House of Representatives to send this important bill to the President’s desk.” After passing the Senate, the bill will be considered by the House before being sent to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Below is a summary of top New Hampshire and national security priorities secured by Shaheen in the FY 2024 NDAA. Summary of Key Shaheen Priorities Supporting the New Hampshire Defense Industry Senator Shaheen worked to authorize $10.0 billion for the procurement of 83 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters. Shaheen has been a steadfast supporter of the F-35 program, which enhances U.S. national security and invests in New Hampshire’s economy and role in support of our national defense. New Hampshire has 58 first-tier suppliers for the program. In addition, Shaheen secured $2.8 billion for the procurement of 15 KC-46A Pegasus refueling tankers, which are flown at Pease Air National Guard Base in New Hampshire. Most recently, Pease hosted airmen and aircraft for training ahead of the 2024 NATO Air Defender Exercises. The 157th Air Refueling Wing, based at Pease, provided support throughout June to the NATO training exercises.? Investing in Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Senator Shaheen built on her long legacy of securing the authorization and funding necessary to complete the Multi-Mission Dry Dock Expansion. The FY 2024 NDAA includes $544.8 million to support the project at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. This is an increase over the FY 2023 levels and the funding required to keep the project on schedule. The Multi-Mission Dry Dock project will construct a?superflood?basin and extend portal crane rails for Dry Dock #1 at the Shipyard. The project expands the capacity of the Shipyard to accommodate an additional submarine, as well as ensure it is equipped with the modern equipment needed to maintain America’s fast-attack submarine fleet into the future. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator?Shaheen?helped secure this funding beginning in the fiscal year 2019 funding legislation, which she’s continued in ensuing years.?? Additionally, Shaheen successfully worked to authorize the procurement of two new Virginia-class submarines—which are repaired and maintained at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard—as well as the authorization of $3.2 billion in advanced procurement. Senator Shaheen has long been a steadfast supporter of the Virginia-class and is a fierce advocate for Shipyard priorities. Shaheen also worked to include authorization for the Navy to enter into one or more multi-year contracts for the procurement of up to 13 Virginia class submarines, and this authorization provides stability for the submarine industrial base and cost-savings for the Navy. Expanding Shaheen’s Historic PFAS Health Impact Study & Confronting Full Scope of Challenges Posed by ‘Forever Chemicals’ Senator Shaheen included $5 million to continue and expand the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) PFAS health impact study that she established four years ago. Senator Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to PFAS contamination. Because of her efforts, Pease is serving as a model site for the nationwide study. This builds on her work in the FY 2023 NDAA, in which Shaheen added an amendment to prohibit the Department of Defense (DOD) from purchasing PFAS-laden firefighting turnout gear after October 1, 2026. This followed?Shaheen-led efforts?to expand blood testing and treatment for firefighters exposed to PFAS and a similar amendment she secured to ban the use of PFAS-laden firefighting foam in the?FY 2020 NDAA. As a lead negotiator of water provisions in the bipartisan infrastructure law, Shaheen secured record-level funding to upgrade drinking water and wastewater infrastructure and address PFAS contamination. In this year’s bill, Shaheen also secured language urging the Department of Defense to utilize safe, on-site PFAS destruction technologies. She also fought to successfully include a number of amendments focused on increasing transparency related to the Department’s PFAS testing and remediation efforts. In addition, Shaheen included several new efforts that focus on transparency and accountability with PFAS-impacted communities. Shaheen secured provisions to ensure the Department of Defense better shares how they intend to restore PFAS testing data with state regulators and impacted communities, like at Pease. Following a letter Shaheen led last year to the Department to express frustration with planning and budgeting for PFAS-related activities, she successfully secured an amendment that will require the Department to submit a separate budget justification to Congress to ensure investments in PFAS testing and remediation are used efficiently and effectively, as well as directing recurring reports on DOD’s PFAS-related activities to increase oversight. Finally, Shaheen secured two amendments to increase engagement with PFAS-impacted communities, including language emphasizing the importance of establishing a senior official at the Department to lead DOD efforts. This role would also help build institutional frameworks for community engagement and authorities for DOD to provide technical assistance to PFAS-impacted communities to empower them to make more informed decisions about their health and futures. These provisions are consistent with key pieces of Shaheen’s PFAS Community Engagement and Transparency Act. Increasing Information to Congress on Activity of Cartels & Transnational Criminal Organizations Trafficking Illicit Substances Senator Shaheen supported the inclusion of a requirement for the Department of Defense to brief Congress on the impact of cartel and transnational criminal organizations (TCO) activities on the U.S. and the region. The Senate-passed bill also has a provision requiring the development of a strategy to counter fentanyl trafficking efforts. In April, Shaheen participated in a bipartisan congressional delegation visit to Latin America to address a number of pressing issues, including interdicting illicit substances from crossing the U.S. border. Senator Shaheen, as Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Department of Justice, has led efforts in the Senate to address the substance use disorder epidemic, which has hit New Hampshire communities hard. Her bipartisan FENTANYL Results Act, signed into law as part of the fiscal year FY 2023 NDAA, increases global cooperation in the fight against synthetic drug trafficking. Shaheen also co-leads the Cooper Davis Act, a bipartisan bill to hold social media companies accountable for reporting to law enforcement all illicit fentanyl activity occurring on their platforms. In March, Shaheen and Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) hosted Dr. Rahul Gupta, Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, for a discussion on the federal government’s ongoing response to the substance use disorder epidemic. In the FY 2023 government funding legislation, Shaheen secured $608 million in federal grants to help communities and first responders across the nation to respond to the substance misuse crisis. Extending Shaheen-led Pilot Program to Incentivize Employee Ownership in Defense Contracting Senator Shaheen added a provision to extend a five-year employee stock ownership (ESOP) pilot program, which she originally established in the FY 2021 NDAA, by an additional three years. The extension also makes additional adjustments to the pilot program to ensure it effectively captures utilization of employee-owned businesses. In addition to securing this provision, Shaheen successfully fought to remove the limitation to the program that restricted companies from only receiving one ESOP pilot program related contract extension. ESOP programs allow employees to own shares in the company and empower them within their role and at the company. New Hampshire is a hub for manufacturing and Granite State firms play a critical role in support of our national defense, where they have historically secured contracts through the Department of Defense.?? Pay Raise for Our Troops Senator Shaheen supported the inclusion of a 5.2 percent pay raise for service members and civilians to ensure military families receive the pay and benefits they deserve. Summary of National Security Priorities in FY 2024 Committee-Passed NDAA Defending Against Adversary Recruitment Efforts (DAARE) Act Shaheen successfully included her bipartisan legislation with Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) that would prohibit former American service members from working for the government national security apparatus of China, Russia, North Korea, Syria, Cuba and Iran to protect our national security interests and ensure those countries do not gain a competitive advantage over the United States and our partners and allies. In addition, to ensure the United States is prepared to meet tomorrow’s threats, Shaheen successfully included language to ensure the DOD delivers a critically needed strategy and posture review regarding operations in the information space. Standing by our Ukrainian Partners Shaheen helped secure a provision in the FY 2024 NDAA that authorizes $300 million in security assistance for Ukraine amid Vladimir Putin’s unprovoked invasion. Shaheen has consistently worked to ensure the delivery of military, humanitarian and economic assistance to Ukraine. Senator Shaheen leads action in the U.S. Senate in support of Ukraine in response to Vladimir Putin’s unprovoked aggression, which also threatens the stability and security of Eastern Europe and NATO allies. Shaheen has led multiple bipartisan congressional delegation visits to Ukraine, met with President Zelenskyy on multiple occasions and leads legislation in the U.S. Senate to address a U.S. strategy toward key political regions in Europe to bolster European security and transatlantic unity. As chair of the Senate NATO Observer Group and Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations subcommittee that oversees U.S. policy towards Europe, Shaheen is a leading policymaker on efforts in support of Ukraine and in defense of democracies around the globe amid Putin’s war that threatens Ukraine’s sovereignty and security throughout the continent. Addressing Syrian Humanitarian and Security Crises Senator Shaheen successfully included her bipartisan Syria Detainee and Displaced Persons Act to designate a senior coordinator at the State Department to lead U.S. government efforts to address the humanitarian and security crises at ISIS detainee and displaced persons camps in northeastern Syria. The provision also directs the administration to develop an interagency strategy to address the threats posed by the camps, with the goal of ultimately repatriating all inhabitants and closing the camps. Finally, the provision increases interagency cooperation and transparency by mandating an annual report to Congress that details progress toward closing the camps. Senator Shaheen has long led efforts to address the national security and humanitarian crises caused by the rise and subsequent fall of ISIS. Shaheen created?the Syria Study Group to complete a comprehensive assessment of the conflict in Syria and ways to address the consequence of the violence. One of the Study Group’s recommendations included the establishment of the ISIS Detainee Coordinator position Shaheen created in the FY 2020 National Defense Authorization Act. In 2018, she led a delegation with Senator Graham to Syria and Iraq, where she visited the detainee and displaced persons camps and met with officials on ways to address security and humanitarian needs.?In the FY 2020 National Defense Authorization Act, Shaheen included language to establish an ISIS Detainee Coordinator at the State Department to oversee U.S. government efforts to address the camps and detention facilities. That position was ultimately filled by the Coordinator of the Counterterrorism Bureau, however the position’s statutory mandate subsequently expired at the end of 2021. Advancing an Interagency Strategy toward the Black Sea Region Senator Shaheen secured the inclusion of her bipartisan legislation, the Black Sea Security Act, which would require the Biden administration to develop an interagency strategy toward the Black Sea region. Following Putin’s decision to withdraw from the Black Sea Grain Initiative, it has become increasingly clear that the economic and security implications of instability within the Black Sea region have global ramifications for food security. The Black Sea is also of strategic importance to Ukraine amid Russia’s unprovoked invasion. Shaheen’s legislation would require a strategy to increase military assistance and coordination, deepen economic ties, strengthen democracy and economic security and enhance security assistance with Black Sea countries. Senator Shaheen has been a leader on U.S. policy toward the Black Sea region for years, stemming back to her participation as an election monitor in Georgia with Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) in 2012. Senator Shaheen was successful in securing limited language in the FY 2023 government funding bill and the FY2023 national defense bill to underscore the importance of the Black Sea region and to require a strategy from the Department of State toward the Black Sea region. Shaheen has also been vocal in the U.S. Senate about the urgency of prioritizing the region following Vladimir Putin’s unprovoked further invasion of Ukraine. Supporting Americans Affected by?Directed Energy Attacks Senator Shaheen built on her progress to ensure that all U.S. personnel and their loved ones suffering from anomalous health incidents (AHIs) – also known as “Havana Syndrome” or directed-energy attacks – get the medical attention they deserve. Shaheen successfully secured support for the AHI Cross Functional Team (CFT) to investigate and mitigate AHIs and to provide care for those impacted. Shaheen supported the establishment of the AHI Cross Functional Team in the FY2022 NDAA and worked to authorize $10 million in funding to support its efforts in the FY2023 NDAA that was signed into law. In addition, Shaheen also successfully included a provision that expands the CFT’s mandate to also pertain to “emerging directed energy capabilities” to prepare for future threats. Senator Shaheen has been a leader in supporting American public servants who have incurred AHIs. In October 2021, President Biden?signed legislation Shaheen helped lead, the Helping American Victims Afflicted by Neurological Attacks (HAVANA Act), into law. The law authorizes financial support to ensure medical care for those living with AHIs. In the?FY2021 NDAA?that became law,?Shaheen?successfully included language?to expand a provision in law?that she?previously?wrote?to provide long-term, emergency care benefits to all U.S. Government employees and their dependents who were mysteriously injured while working in China and?Cuba. Also, in the FY2022 NDAA, Shaheen included a provision based on her standalone legislation?to require the President to designate a senior national security official – now filled by Maher Bitar – to organize a whole-of-government response and direct the heads of relevant agencies to designate senior officials to lead their agency’s response to AHIs.?The FY2022 law also included a measure?Shaheen?supported?to ensure wounded officers and their families have immediate access to specialized facilities at Walter Reed. In FY2022 government funding legislation that was signed into law,?Shaheen added language to allow the Department of Commerce and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to address the medical needs of their employees or dependents who are likely victims of these attacks. Absent this language, neither the Department of Commerce nor the FBI would be permitted to provide funding to assist their employees who are AHI victims. Addressing the Security Situation in the Balkans Senator Shaheen helped secure a provision that would extend an existing authority for the Department of Defense to train Eastern European partner military forces as part of multilateral exercises and expand that authority to allow for the participation of Kosovo military forces. Shaheen’s efforts are particularly important and timely amid deteriorating security conditions in northern Kosovo. Shaheen recently led a bipartisan group of lawmakers in a joint statement urging calm between Kosovo and Serbia amid concerning security conditions between the two nations. The statement came on the heels of a phone call between Prime Minister Kurti and Senators Shaheen, Murphy and Ricketts. Last month, Senators Shaheen and Ricketts issued a statement calling for calm. In March, the Senators issued a joint statement on the interim agreement reached between Serbia and Kosovo. Shaheen visited Kosovo and Serbia last April as part of a congressional delegation visit to the Balkans, which also included a stop in Bosnia and Herzegovina. At the urging of Shaheen, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee held a hearing on the Western Balkans last month, which came on the heels of Shaheen’s renewed bipartisan push to advance her legislation that would promote cooperation between the U.S. and the Western Balkans. Bolstering AUKUS and U.S. Public Shipyards Senator Shaheen supported the inclusion of a provision that directs the Department of Defense to designate a senior official to be responsible for DOD’s engagement as part of the efforts to implement the AUKUS agreement, which will help improve interagency coordination on the pivotal tri-lateral pact between the United States, Australia and the United Kingdom. Shaheen also successfully secured language emphasizing the role that U.S. public shipyards like Portsmouth Naval Shipyard will play in the future by helping the Australian Navy to establish the industrial base required to maintain future fleets of Virginia-class and AUKUS-class nuclear powered submarines. Increasing Exportability Planning for U.S. Defense Capabilities Senator Shaheen supported the addition of a provision that contains a number of elements intended to improve foreign purchasing of U.S. defense articles. The provision also establishes combatant command needs for exportability to ensure they are able to prioritize the systems most valuable in their region. Shaheen also supported a provision to update program guidance at the Department of Defense to better integrate planning for exportability in future major defense acquisition programs and middle tier acquisition programs, which will streamline the exportability process for defense articles and provide the defense industrial base with clear guidance on exportability requirements. This builds on Shaheen’s leadership through her bipartisan legislation with Senator Fischer (R-NE), the Defense Export Promotion of Relevant Technology and Supplies Act (Defense EXPORTS Act). The Senators’ bipartisan legislation would help level the playing field for smaller defense manufacturing companies by funding exportability and interoperability during development of hardware to expedite the timeline for getting urgently needed capabilities into the hands of U.S. allies and partners. Replenishing U.S. Defense Stockpiles Senator Shaheen successfully fought to include a measure based on her standalone legislation with Senator Cornyn (R-TX) that would give the Department of Defense enhanced procurement authorities to quickly replenish American defense stockpiles after the President provides aid to an ally or partner attacked by a foreign adversary, including backfilling America’s stockpiles after lethal aid was sent to Ukraine for defense against Russia. Shaheen and Cornyn previously worked together on the Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act, which was signed into law, and establishes a military lend-lease program to enhance security assistance to Ukraine. Shaheen also leads the Promoting Readiness for Overseas Contingencies and Unexpected Responses to Exigencies (PROCURE) Act with Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), which would establish a Critical Munitions Acquisition Fund (CMAF) to allow the Secretary of Defense to better manage industry production lines and sustain particular munitions lines that are critical to U.S. national security interests. Supporting a Free and Democratic Belarus Shaheen secured language that would codify the role of Special Envoy to Belarus, ensuring the U.S. maintains diplomatic relations with the pro-democracy movement inside the country. This initiative would ensure that the State Department will recommit senior-level attention to the pro-democracy Belarussian movement. Most recently, Shaheen introduced bipartisan legislation with Senator Wicker (R-MS)—the Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2023—that condemns the Lukashenka regime’s support for Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and calls for a return to free and fair elections and for observer status for the Belarus democracy movement at international institutions, among additional support for the Belarus democracy movement including provisions to ensure access to independent media inside Belarus. In 2021, Shaheen, alongside Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) launched the bipartisan Free Belarus Caucus following the Senators’ meeting with Tsikhanouskaya. Shaheen and Wicker also led a bipartisan resolution that reaffirms U.S. support for the Belarusian pro-democracy movement, which unanimously cleared the Senate last year. Strengthening U.S.-EU Trade Ties Shaheen also secured language that would regular briefings from the Biden Administration on the deliverables and policy initiatives from the United States-European Union Trade and Technology Council (TTC), which contributes to enhanced coordination on trade and technology policy between the U.S. and EU. In June, Shaheen chaired for the Europe and Regional Security Cooperation Subcommittee on China's growing economic and security presence in Europe which highlighted the importance of the TTC meetings to continue close coordination on key trade and technology policy interests. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-bipartisan-bill-to-address-overdose-crisis-including-pappas-provision-to-crack-down-on-deadly-xylazine,"House Passes Bipartisan Bill to Address Overdose Crisis, Including Pappas Provision to Crack Down on Deadly Xylazine",2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), a member of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force, helped pass the bipartisan Support for Patients and Communities Reauthorization (SUPPORT) Act in the House. This bill includes Pappas’s provision to classify xylazine as a schedule III controlled substance from his bipartisan Combating Illicit Xylazine Act. The SUPPORT Act, which was led by Rep. Annie Kuster (NH-02), will help communities better address the overdose crisis by expanding access to substance use disorder treatment, support first responders and mental health workers, and more. The Combating Illicit Xylazine Act will crack down on the manufacture and sale of xylazine, which can be legally used as an animal tranquilizer, by listing it as a controlled substance and better coordinating federal agencies to ensure law enforcement has the resources needed to crack down on illegal drug traffickers. Pappas introduced this bill earlier this year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/committee-advances-major-bill-to-address-fentanyl-crisis-with-critical-bipartisan-measures-authored-by-senator-hassan,Committee Advances Major Bill to Address Fentanyl Crisis with Critical Bipartisan Measures Authored by Senator Hassan,2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions (HELP) Committee today voted to advance a bill to reauthorize the bipartisan SUPPORT Act – a landmark investment in addiction prevention, treatment, recovery, and law enforcement efforts that Senator Hassan and colleagues worked to pass into law in 2018. Senator Hassan has been pushing for the reauthorization of the SUPPORT Act, and the updated legislation includes bipartisan provisions that Senator Hassan authored. Watch Senator Hassan’s remarks at the markup here. “As the fentanyl epidemic continues to devastate families in the Granite State, I was glad to advance bipartisan legislation that builds upon our addiction care infrastructure and provides essential prevention, treatment, and recovery resources,"" said Senator Hassan. ""I worked with my colleagues across the aisle to extend critical programs that are already making a difference in New Hampshire, ensuring that there are stable and predictable resources for the recovery community so that providers and advocates can focus on their patients and help save lives."" The package advanced today incorporates a number of bipartisan bills that Senator Hassan helped introduce to address the fentanyl crisis, including: Senator Hassan’s bipartisan bill with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) to reauthorize and double the Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery Loan Repayment Program, which provides student loan repayment for health care workers who focus on addiction treatment and recovery in underserved areas Senator Hassan’s bipartisan bill with Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) to help expand access to fentanyl and xylazine test strips, a critical tool to help lower overdose deaths Senator Hassan’s bipartisan bill with Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) to ensure that first responders and other essential community members have access to training on how to use life-saving overdose reversal drugs, like naloxone Senator Hassan’s bipartisan bill with Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) to enhance patient safety and deter fraud by requiring electronic prescriptions for all Schedule II-IV controlled substances, including opioids. These medications have a higher potential for misuse – and electronic prescriptions can prevent fraudulent prescribing as well as doctor shopping, a practice in which people get duplicative prescriptions either for their own use or to sell on the black market Provisions of Senator Hassan’s bipartisan bill with Senator Murkowski and colleagues to bolster federal prevention and education efforts surrounding the dangers of fentanyl The HELP Committee also voted today to advance the Modernizing Opioid Treatment Access Act, bipartisan legislation Senator Hassan helped introduce to improve access to medication-assisted treatment for addiction care by allowing more addiction specialists to prescribe methadone. Additionally, HELP Committee voted to advance the Advancing Research in Education Act, which supports states, schools, and educators with research and technical assistance to improve student performance. The bipartisan bill includes key provisions that Senator Hassan advocated for to support math and science education and support students with disabilities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/passed-the-house-key-provisions-of-senator-hassan-and-brauns-site-neutral-bill-to-lower-health-care-costs-and-save-taxpayer-dollars,PASSED THE HOUSE: Key Provisions of Senator Hassan and Braun’s Site-Neutral Bill to Lower Health Care Costs & Save Taxpayer Dollars,2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The U.S. House of Representatives yesterday passed the bipartisan Lower Costs, More Transparency Act, which includes key measures from Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Mike Braun (R-IN)’s Site-based Invoicing and Transparency Enhancement (SITE) Act. Their bill would help to prevent hospital systems from charging hospital facility fees for care received at outpatient facilities located away from the hospital – like a primary care office. It could also save taxpayers close to $40 billion over the next decade and would reinvest those savings to strengthen the health care workforce. “Patients shouldn’t be on the hook for unfair hospital fees, just because a hospital bought their regular doctor’s practice,” said Senators Hassan and Braun. “We continue to work together to end unfair hospital facility fees, which in turn will bring down costs for Americans and save taxpayer dollars. We are pleased that the House of Representatives passed key parts of our bill – and we will keep working across the aisle and with our colleagues in the Senate and House to get this done.” The House-passed bill includes the following provisions from Senator Hassan and Braun’s legislation: Require that health systems establish and bill using a unique National Provider Identifier number for each and every off-campus outpatient department, which increases transparency and oversight of hospital facility fees Establishes site-neutral payments for drug administration services under Medicare when provided in a place other than a hospital, for instance if someone goes to a cancer clinic for chemotherapy or to a doctor’s office for an injection In addition to the SITE Act, the House of Representatives’ bill also includes Senator Hassan’s bipartisan bill that previously passed the HELP Committee to get generics to market more quickly, which will help lower prescription drug prices and saves taxpayers nearly a billion dollars over 10 years. Currently, the FDA requires certain generic drug manufacturers to demonstrate that they have the same active and inactive ingredients in the same concentration as the reference brand name drug. However, when a generic drug contains the wrong amount of inactive ingredient, the FDA cannot disclose the exact error, forcing manufacturers to engage in an often lengthy guessing game to reach the right balance. This legislation would require the FDA to more clearly identify the specific differences between the generic and brand name drug, thereby streamlining the approval process, helping more generics reach the market faster, and lowering prescription drug prices overall. Representative Kuster is leading the effort to pass this bipartisan bill in the House. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/rosen-ernst-gillibrand-collins-cardin-lead-bipartisan-push-condemning-united-nations-inaction-on-hamass-sexual-violence-against-women,"Rosen, Ernst, Gillibrand, Collins, Cardin Lead Bipartisan Push Condemning United Nations’ Inaction on Hamas’s Sexual Violence Against Women",2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ben Cardin (D-MD) led a bipartisan group of 28 colleagues in a letter condemning the inaction of the United Nations (UN) regarding Hamas’s widespread sexual violence, including mass rape and mutilation, against women in Israel on October 7, 2023. The Senators urged UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to open an independent investigation into Hamas’s acts of sexual violence and to hold the UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) -- the organization dedicated to ending gender-based violence -- accountable for its failure to immediately and unequivocally condemn Hamas’s atrocities against women. Senators Rosen, Ernst, Gillibrand, Collins, and Cardin were joined by Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), Katie Britt (R-AL), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), James Risch (R-ID), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Bob Casey (D-PA), Mike Crapo (R-ID), John Fetterman (D-PA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Joe Manchin (D-WV), James Lankford (R-OK), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Rick Scott (R-FL), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN). “We write to express our profound disappointment with the United Nations’ (UN) response to Hamas’s widespread sexual violence, including rape and mutilation, as a weapon of war against women in Israel on October 7, 2023,” wrote the senators. “A growing body of evidence including the testimonies of survivors, witnesses, and first responders makes clear that as part of Hamas’s terrorist attack that killed 1,200 men, women, and children on October 7, the terrorist organization intentionally used rape and sexual assault as weapons of war.” “Sexual violence, particularly on this scale and of this level of brutality, must be condemned unequivocally and without qualification, which is why we were shocked that it took UN Women nearly two months to speak out against these atrocities,” the senators also wrote. “... we urge you to move swiftly to seek the establishment of an independent fact-finding effort through a separate mechanism, tasked with collecting testimonies from survivors and witnesses of Hamas’s sexual violence. An independent investigation is a necessary step to hold perpetrators accountable, support survivors, and provide justice for victims.” The full text of the letter can be found HERE. Following Hamas’s terrorist attack on Israel, Senator Rosen has called for holding Hamas accountable and for immediate U.S. action to support Israel. Last week, she took to the Senate floor to strongly urge her colleagues to pass unconditional aid to Israel to defend themselves against Hamas. Senator Rosen also recently co-sponsored a bipartisan resolution, which passed the Senate unanimously, standing with Israel against Hamas terrorism. Additionally, she introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning Hamas for its terrorist attack and demanding the immediate release of the hostages Hamas is holding, which also passed the U.S. Senate. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-nominates-granite-state-students-for-united-states-service-academies,Shaheen Nominates Granite State Students for United States Service Academies,2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) is announcing the nominations of 44 New Hampshire students for acceptance to the United States Service Academies. The nominees will now be considered by the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy for appointment to the Class of 2028. “I’m proud to nominate these extraordinary young Granite Staters to represent New Hampshire at our nation’s Service Academies,” said Shaheen. “These young men and women have an outstanding academic record and I commend them for their dedication to our nation. I have no doubt that they will make the Granite State proud.” The full list of students nominated by Senator Shaheen is below. More information on the nomination process for interested applicants can be found here. U.S. Military Academy (USMA) Jackson Bairstow, Dover Annie Christiana, Brentwood Connor Guibord, Bedford Decland MacDougall, Somersworth Thaddeus Maughan, Hopkinton Reagan McIntire, Gilford Hayden Rowland, Jaffrey Tatiana Stockbower, Dover Thanida Thomas, Plymouth Harley Twofoot, Merrimack U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) Kyle Ashley, Newport Carson Boardman, Lebanon Logan Carter, Windham Rathanak Chea, Hampton Stephen Cleveland, Lincoln Max Durkin, Greenland Patrick Gandini, Gilford Sadie Higgins, Hanover Aaron Jee, Bedford Brennan Johnson, Plymouth Dylan Killie, Windham Caitlyn Koutalidis, Hampton Thomas Lacroix, Auburn Baidyn Lewis, Canterbury Owen McCarthy, Windham Talia Parmelee, Exeter Mckenzie Poplawski, Hampton Anderson Seals, Exeter Calvin Sweeney, Holderness Jonathan Tudor, Newmarket U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) Taylor Anderton, Hampton Falls Colin Atkinson, Amherst Dalton Cox, Stoddard Benjamin Holton, Manchester Wyatt Lake, Etna Michael Nemeth, Hudson Naomi Nunez, Littleton Aislyn Reed, Bow Alec Simoneau, Amherst Sky Willer, Epsom U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) Isaac Davis, Dover Derek Leedberg, Stratham Meghan Shippos, Bow Charlotte Smith, Center Barnstead ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-shaheen-hassan-join-commerce-secretary-raimondo-in-nashua-to-announce-35-million-in-chips-funding-headed-to-bae-systems,"Pappas, Shaheen, Hassan Join Commerce Secretary Raimondo in Nashua to Announce $35 Million in CHIPS Funding Headed to BAE Systems",2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Senator Jeanne Shaheen (NH) and Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) joined U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to announce that $35 million in federal funds are heading to BAE Systems to increase defense manufacturing and improve our national security. The funds will help modernize its Microelectronics Center in Nashua, New Hampshire, which is designated as a Trusted Foundry by the U.S. Department of Defense and ensures the U.S. Government has access to leading microelectronics technologies. Today’s investment is allocated through the CHIPS for America program, part of the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act that the delegation supported. “I’m thrilled BAE Systems has received this grant to modernize their microelectronics facility,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “On-shoring our production of semiconductors and new investments in technology development strengthen our national defense, all while creating good paying jobs in New Hampshire’s growing tech industry. I remain committed to supporting our local manufacturers and workforce so that New Hampshire remains a great place to live and work.” “This critical funding from the CHIPS and Science Act—which I was proud to help pass—will help BAE Systems’ Microelectronics Center in Nashua modernize their facility and improve our national security by helping ensure our military continues to have access to American-made semiconductor technology,” said Senator Shaheen, chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Department of Commerce. “These modernization efforts will strengthen New Hampshire’s integral role in the nation’s defense manufacturing industry for years to come.” “New Hampshire is a hub for innovation-based businesses and entrepreneurs,” said Senator Hassan. “We worked to pass the CHIPS and Science Act to build a stronger economy and protect our national security, and the agreement announced today on modernizing BAE Systems' Microelectronics Center in Nashua is a yet another way this law will ensure that the United States remains a global leader in advanced technology.” “I’m thrilled to see these resources from the CHIPS and Science Act heading to BAE Systems in Nashua,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “When we passed this legislation in 2022, this is exactly the kind of project we envisioned. I look forward to seeing the modernized microelectronics center and the positive impact it will have on our state, our economy, and our national security.” “We have been clear since day one that the CHIPS for America Program is about advancing our national security and strengthening domestic supply chains, all while creating good jobs supporting long-term U.S. economic growth. As national security becomes as much about the chips inside of our weapons systems as the weapons systems themselves, this first CHIPS announcement shows how central semiconductors are to our national defense,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we have reached preliminary terms to make a substantial investment in New Hampshire’s expanding defense industrial base, which will help make our country and supply chains more secure and bolster the economy of the Granite State.” This announcement comes approximately one year after President Biden signed the CHIPS and Science Act into law. The CHIPS for America program works to bolster the United States’ economic and national security interests through investments in the U.S. workforce to forward domestic chip and semiconductor production and eliminate reliance on international manufacturers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-shaheen-and-hassan-representative-pappas-join-commerce-secretary-raimondo-in-nashua-to-announce-35-million-in-chips-funding-headed-to-bae-systems,"Senators Shaheen and Hassan, Representative Pappas Join Commerce Secretary Raimondo in Nashua to Announce $35 Million in CHIPS Funding Headed to BAE Systems",2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Department of Commerce, and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), alongside U.S. Representative Chris Pappas (NH-01), joined U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to announce that $35 million in federal funds are heading to BAE Systems to increase defense manufacturing and improve our national security. The funds will help modernize its Microelectronics Center in Nashua, New Hampshire, which is designated as a Trusted Foundry by the U.S. Department of Defense and ensures the U.S. Government has access to leading microelectronics technologies. Today’s investment is allocated through CHIPS for America program, part of the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act that Senators Shaheen and Hassan developed and helped get signed into law. A photo from today’s event can be found here. “This critical funding from the CHIPS and Science Act—which I was proud to help pass—will help BAE Systems’ Microelectronics Center in Nashua modernize their facility and improve our national security by helping ensure our military continues to have access to American-made semiconductor technology,” said Senator Shaheen, chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Department of Commerce. “These modernization efforts will strengthen New Hampshire’s integral role in the nation’s defense manufacturing industry for years to come.” “New Hampshire is a hub for innovation-based businesses and entrepreneurs,” said Senator Hassan. “We worked to pass the CHIPS and Science Act to build a stronger economy and protect our national security, and the agreement announced today on modernizing BAE Systems' Microelectronics Center in Nashua is a yet another way this law will ensure that the United States remains a global leader in advanced technology.” “I’m thrilled to see these resources from the CHIPS and Science Act heading to BAE Systems in Nashua,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “When we passed this legislation in 2022, this is exactly the kind of project we envisioned. I look forward to seeing the modernized microelectronics center and the positive impact it will have on our state, our economy, and our national security.” “I’m thrilled BAE Systems has received this grant to modernize their microelectronics facility,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “On-shoring our production of semiconductors and new investments in technology development strengthen our national defense, all while creating good paying jobs in New Hampshire’s growing tech industry. I remain committed to supporting our local manufacturers and workforce so that New Hampshire remains a great place to live and work.” “We have been clear since day one that the CHIPS for America Program is about advancing our national security and strengthening domestic supply chains, all while creating good jobs supporting long-term U.S. economic growth. As national security becomes as much about the chips inside of our weapons systems as the weapons systems themselves, this first CHIPS announcement shows how central semiconductors are to our national defense,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we have reached preliminary terms to make a substantial investment in New Hampshire’s expanding defense industrial base, which will help make our country and supply chains more secure and bolster the economy of the Granite State.” This announcement comes approximately one year after President Biden signed the CHIPS and Science Act into law. The CHIPS for America program works to bolster the Unites States’ economic and national security interests through investments in the U.S. workforce to forward domestic chip and semiconductor production and eliminate reliance on international manufacturers. In addition to modernization efforts, BAE Systems plans to utilize this funding in part to work alongside Nashua Community College (NCC) to create and implement a workforce training program. Senator Shaheen is a leader in the U.S. Senate to bolster the domestic defense industrial base to ensure U.S. troops have the cutting-edge equipment they need to defend the nation and deter adversaries. In August, Shaheen visited BAE Systems to highlight how she is working to secure additional funding for New Hampshire’s defense industrial base, as well as discuss how the CHIPS and Science Act is helping produce microchips, an essential part of the defense industry and critical to national security. Senator Hassan has worked to invest in American research and manufacturing, and helped lead efforts to draft and pass the CHIPS and Science Act that will strengthen supply chains, lower costs and outcompete countries like China by investing in American research and manufacturing, especially for semiconductors. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/senator-shaheen-joins-lujan-cornyn-kaine-durbin-to-introduce-legislation-to-boost-substance-use-recovery-resources-and-services,"Senator Shaheen Joins Luján, Cornyn, Kaine, Durbin to Introduce Legislation to Boost Substance Use Recovery Resources and Services",2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) — U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) joined U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) along with U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Dick Durbin (D-IL), to introduce the Strengthening Communities of Recovery Act, which would reauthorize and expand resources for individuals experiencing substance use disorder. As the United States faces a severe behavioral health crisis, exacerbated by an epidemic of substance use disorders (SUD), individuals in recovery are often struggling to reintegrate into society due to stigma, lack of support, and limited access to resources that address their complex needs. “The substance use disorder crisis continues to plague communities across the country, and far too often, those impacted lack access to comprehensive recovery services,” said Senator Shaheen, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies. “Just last year, overdose deaths increased 11 percent in New Hampshire. We can’t allow this to continue, which is why I’m proud to support the Strengthening Communities of Recovery Act that would provide vital funding for recovery support programs, including several in the Granite State.” “The road to recovery after battling a substance use disorder is challenging. From integrating back into society, to navigating limited resources available, and overcoming the stigma attached – people do recover and we have to make it easier,” said Senator Luján. “The Strengthening Communities of Recovery Act addresses these challenges by providing funding to expand recovery resources for individuals experiencing substance use disorder. This funding will help local organizations develop more robust support systems that include advocacy, education, job assistance, and family outreach, ensuring our communities have accessible pathways to recovery.” SUD represents a significant public health challenge in the United States. In 2021, over 37.3 million Americans aged 12 and older were currently using illicit drugs, with 59.2 million or 21.4% having used illegal drugs or misused prescription drugs within the last year. Despite the high prevalence of substance use, the availability of recovery services is not keeping pace. Of the more than 46 million Americans with a substance use disorder in 2021, which represents 16.5% of the population, only 6% received treatment. For those individuals who battled their SUD, and worked hard to reach the other side, access to recovery services is tragically limited. To assist recovery and help reintegrate into society, the Strengthening Communities of Recovery Act reauthorizes this grant program for five years and increases funding from $5 million a year to $16 million a year to address the need for recovery services. The grant program allows organizations to develop and enhance peer recovery and general recovery support, while also fostering collaboration with other harm reduction entities. The funding will also enable these organizations to offer a number of services, including advocacy, education, employment assistance, and outreach to families and communities. Full text of the bill is available HERE. One pager is available HERE. Senator Shaheen has led efforts in the Senate to address the substance use disorder epidemic and support recovery services. Her bipartisan FENTANYL Results Act, signed into law as part of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), increases global cooperation in the fight against synthetic drug trafficking. Shaheen and Senator Marshall lead the Cooper Davis Act, which is a bipartisan bill to hold social media companies accountable for reporting to law enforcement all illicit fentanyl activity occurring on their platforms. In the FY 2023 government funding legislation, Shaheen secured $608 million in federal grants to help communities and first responders across the nation to respond to the substance misuse crisis. Shaheen also included in the FY 2023 government funding bill language to authorize increased funding for the State Opioid Response grant program, which gives local communities resources to better combat the opioid and substance use disorder epidemic. In August, Shaheen visited Hope on Haven Hill’s Center for Hope and Wellness and Abi’s Place in Rochester to discuss their work to combat the substance use disorder crisis in New Hampshire by providing supportive housing and resources for women on their road to recovery. In September, Shaheen delivered remarks at the White House’s National Recovery Month Summit. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/senators-shaheen-and-hassan-representative-pappas-join-commerce-secretary-raimondo-in-nashua-to-announce-35-million-in-chips-funding-headed-to-bae-systems,"Senators Shaheen and Hassan, Representative Pappas Join Commerce Secretary Raimondo in Nashua to Announce $35 Million in CHIPS Funding Headed to BAE Systems",2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"“This critical funding from the CHIPS and Science Act—which I was proud to help pass—will help BAE Systems’ Microelectronics Center in Nashua modernize their facility and improve our national security by helping ensure our military continues to have access to American-made semiconductor technology,” said Senator Shaheen, chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Department of Commerce. “These modernization efforts will strengthen New Hampshire’s integral role in the nation’s defense manufacturing industry for years to come.” “New Hampshire is a hub for innovation-based businesses and entrepreneurs,” said Senator Hassan. “We worked to pass the CHIPS and Science Act to build a stronger economy and protect our national security, and the agreement announced today on modernizing BAE Systems' Microelectronics Center in Nashua is a yet another way this law will ensure that the United States remains a global leader in advanced technology.” “I’m thrilled to see these resources from the CHIPS and Science Act heading to BAE Systems in Nashua,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “When we passed this legislation in 2022, this is exactly the kind of project we envisioned. I look forward to seeing the modernized microelectronics center and the positive impact it will have on our state, our economy, and our national security.” “I’m thrilled BAE Systems has received this grant to modernize their microelectronics facility,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “On-shoring our production of semiconductors and new investments in technology development strengthen our national defense, all while creating good paying jobs in New Hampshire’s growing tech industry. I remain committed to supporting our local manufacturers and workforce so that New Hampshire remains a great place to live and work.” “We have been clear since day one that the CHIPS for America Program is about advancing our national security and strengthening domestic supply chains, all while creating good jobs supporting long-term U.S. economic growth. As national security becomes as much about the chips inside of our weapons systems as the weapons systems themselves, this first CHIPS announcement shows how central semiconductors are to our national defense,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we have reached preliminary terms to make a substantial investment in New Hampshire’s expanding defense industrial base, which will help make our country and supply chains more secure and bolster the economy of the Granite State.” This announcement comes approximately one year after President Biden signed the CHIPS and Science Act into law. The CHIPS for America program works to bolster the Unites States’ economic and national security interests through investments in the U.S. workforce to forward domestic chip and semiconductor production and eliminate reliance on international manufacturers. In addition to modernization efforts, BAE Systems plans to utilize this funding in part to work alongside Nashua Community College (NCC) to create and implement a workforce training program. Senator Shaheen is a leader in the U.S. Senate to bolster the domestic defense industrial base to ensure U.S. troops have the cutting-edge equipment they need to defend the nation and deter adversaries. In August, Shaheen visited BAE Systems to highlight how she is working to secure additional funding for New Hampshire’s defense industrial base, as well as discuss how the CHIPS and Science Act is helping produce microchips, an essential part of the defense industry and critical to national security. Senator Hassan has worked to invest in American research and manufacturing, and helped lead efforts to draft and pass the CHIPS and Science Act that will strengthen supply chains, lower costs and outcompete countries like China by investing in American research and manufacturing, especially for semiconductors. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-tillis-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-to-encourage-nato-members-to-fulfill-commitment-on-defense-spending,"Shaheen, Tillis Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Encourage NATO Members to Fulfill Commitment on Defense Spending",2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) - U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), Co-Chairs of the U.S. Senate NATO Observer Group, recently introduced a bipartisan resolution to help bolster the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and increase burden sharing amongst members of the Alliance. The resolution commends Allies for adopting the regional family of plans during the 2023 NATO Summit in Vilnius, recognizes that Allies have substantially increased defense spending for nine consecutive years, and calls on Allies who have not yet met the 2 percent commitment to make plans to do so. “NATO Allies have stepped up alongside the United States with unwavering support for Ukraine in its fight for freedom against Russia’s unprovoked invasion,” said Shaheen. “NATO is world’s preeminent Alliance and it’s stronger now than ever before. I commend the Allies who have fulfilled the commitment to spend 2 percent of GDP on defense and this bipartisan resolution will urge other nations to make concrete plans to do so.” “As the NATO Alliance faces continued aggression from Russia in Ukraine, provocation from China, and other rising threats, it is more important than ever that the partner nations commit to reaching the two percent goals with the United States so we can continue to bolster and strengthen the Alliance,” said Tillis. “Russia’s aggression has unified our allies and partners against the threat to democracy, and as co-chair of the Senate NATO Observer Group, I am proud to work with Senator Shaheen and my colleagues to show the Senate’s commitment to that effort.” Along with Shaheen and Tillis, U.S. Senators Van Hollen (D-MD), Coons (D-DE), King (I-ME), Merkley (D-OR), Rounds (R-SD), Rosen (D-NV), Barrasso (R-WY), Ricketts (R-NE) and Booker (D-NJ) also signed on as cosponsors. In 2006, NATO Defense Ministers agreed to commit a minimum of 2 percent of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to defense spending to ensure the Alliance's military readiness. The resolution highlights the existing burden sharing across the Alliance while urging Allies who are working to meet the 2 percent defense spending commitment to do so. The bipartisan resolution also stipulates that the next Secretary General of NATO should be from a country already meeting the 2 percent commitment, or with concrete plans to do so soon, and calls for Türkiye and Hungary to ratify Sweden’s accession to NATO without further delay. The Senate NATO Observer Group, re-established by co-chairs Shaheen and Tillis in 2018, has an expanded mission to closely monitor and inform Senators outside of national security committees about defense spending commitments of Alliance members, the process of upgrading military capabilities, the Alliance’s counter-terrorism capability, NATO enlargement and the ability of NATO member states to address unconventional warfare threats. Shaheen is a leading voice in U.S.-European relations as well as American foreign policy in the Black Sea region. Shaheen and Tillis recently met with the Turkish delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly to commend Türkiye’s contributions to NATO and European security and call on Türkiye’s to swiftly approve NATO accession protocols for Sweden. Earlier this year, Shaheen and Tillis also led a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers in a joint statement of support and a letter to President Biden calling for Finland and Sweden’s swift accession into NATO in response to the respective nations announcing their intent to join the transatlantic Alliance. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/nh-delegation-celebrates-over-27-million-in-funding-for-new-england-rail,NH Delegation Celebrates Over $27 Million in Funding for New England Rail,2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The New Hampshire delegation announced that the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority is being awarded $27,492,000 in federal funding. It will be used for track-related improvements on Amtrak’s Downeaster route, which stops in Exeter, Durham, and Dover. The funding comes from the bipartisan infrastructure law which the delegation supported and provides the largest investment in public transit ever. “Passenger rail is good for our local economy and quality of life, and I’m pleased to see the funds being put to work for New Hampshire,” said Congressman Pappas. “This investment in our rail infrastructure will improve safety, reliability, and efficiency for commuters and tourists across the region, and I will continue working to secure resources that help modernize old infrastructure and boost our economy.” “We worked across the aisle to negotiate and pass into law the bipartisan infrastructure law to get New Hampshire the significant funding needed to modernize and strengthen every part of our infrastructure,” said Senator Hassan. “I’m glad to see new funding to strengthen rail service in New Hampshire, which provides Granite Staters more transportation options, boosts tourism, and lowers emissions. I look forward to seeing how investments from the bipartisan infrastructure law continue to support our communities and strengthen our economy.” “Investing in infrastructure projects that enhance Granite State transportation systems, especially our railways, are critical to promoting economic growth and development across our state,” said Senator Shaheen. “These federal funds will facilitate important safety and service improvements, helping to improve passenger rail services in New Hampshire for years to come.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/nh-delegation-celebrates-over-27-million-in-funding-for-new-england-rail,NH Delegation Celebrates Over $27 Million in Funding for New England Rail,2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan and Jeanne Shaheen and Representatives Annie Kuster and Chris Pappas today announced that the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority is being awarded $27,492,000 in federal funding. It will be used for track-related improvements on Amtrak’s Downeaster route, which stops in Exeter, Durham, and Dover. The funding comes from the Hassan and Shaheen-negotiated bipartisan infrastructure law, which provides the largest investment in public transit ever. Senator Hassan was a member of the bipartisan group negotiating transit funding in the bipartisan infrastructure law. “We worked across the aisle to negotiate and pass into law the bipartisan infrastructure law to get New Hampshire the significant funding needed to modernize and strengthen every part of our infrastructure,” said Senator Hassan. “I’m glad to see new funding to strengthen rail service in New Hampshire, which provides Granite Staters more transportation options, boosts tourism, and lowers emissions. I look forward to seeing how investments from the bipartisan infrastructure law continue to support our communities and strengthen our economy.” “Investing in infrastructure projects that enhance Granite State transportation systems, especially our railways, are critical to promoting economic growth and development across our state,” said Senator Shaheen. “These federal funds will facilitate important safety and service improvements, helping to improve passenger rail services in New Hampshire for years to come.” “Improving our passenger rail infrastructure is an important investment in the economic competitiveness of New Hampshire and the region,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “These federal resources going to the Downeaster Corridor Track Improvement Project will help increase service reliability, improve safety, and reduce transit times. I will continue to advocate for expanded passenger rail services in New Hampshire and beyond!” “Passenger rail is good for our local economy and quality of life, and I’m pleased to see the funds being put to work for New Hampshire,” said Congressman Pappas. “This investment in our rail infrastructure will improve safety, reliability, and efficiency for commuters and tourists across the region, and I will continue working to secure resources that help modernize old infrastructure and boost our economy.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/two-hassan-bills-recognized-by-national-taxpayers-union-on-2023-no-brainer-bills-congress-should-pass,Two Hassan Bills Recognized by National Taxpayers Union on 2023 “No-Brainer” Bills Congress Should Pass,2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The National Taxpayers Union, a nonpartisan national taxpayer advocacy and pro-economic growth organization, named bipartisan bills that Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) introduced on its annual list of ten commonsense, “no-brainer” legislation that Congress should pass. The list includes the Site-based Invoicing and Transparency Enhancement (SITE) Act, which Senator Hassan helped introduce with Senator Mike Braun (R-IN), to prevent hospital systems from charging unfair hospital facility fees for care received at outpatient facilities located away from the hospital – like a primary care office – as well as the Identifying and Eliminating Wasteful Programs Act, which Senator Hassan also introduced with Senator Braun, to require federal agencies to identify wasteful programs and assist Congress with developing legislation to eliminate those programs. “Our democracy works best when we are able to work together and find common ground, and I am glad to see bipartisan bills I introduced recognized as the commonsense solutions that they are,” said Senator Hassan. “I urge my colleagues to support these bills and I will continue to work to pass bipartisan legislation that will help the country thrive.” NTU’s 13th Annual “No Brainers” List: 2023's Top 10 Bipartisan Bills for Taxpayers National Taxpayers Union (NTU) is happy to present its 13th annual “No Brainers” list that can unite lawmakers across the political spectrum. Each bill would be a welcome gift for taxpayers and must meet three key criteria: 1) it has support from both Democrats and Republicans, 2) it has not appeared on a previous NTU “No Brainers” list, and 3) it is a sensible way to address a real problem that taxpayers face. Each bill below shows that there can be wide agreement on effective solutions to various issues when partisan politics are set aside in the spirit of the holiday season. […] Identifying and Eliminating Wasteful Programs Act Bill Number(s): S. 666 / H.R. 1390 Lead Sponsors/Cosponsors: Senator Hassan (D-NH), Senator Braun (R-IN), Rep. Cuellar (D-TX), Rep. Mace (R-SC) Why It’s a No-Brainer: This legislation would compel agencies to compile lists of unnecessary or duplicative programs that hurt taxpayers by wasting limited tax dollars. They also hurt the individuals, businesses, and organizations that federal programs are supposed to help. This good governance legislation would require federal agencies to work with Congress on eliminating or consolidating unnecessary or duplicative federal programs. […] SITE Act Bill Number(s): S. 1869 Lead Sponsors/Cosponsors: Senator Mike Braun (R-IN), Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) Why It’s a No-Brainer: This legislation, the Site-based Invoicing and Transparency Enhancement Act (SITE Act), would eliminate the exception for payments to off campus providers which is artificially boosting Medicare spending. The problem is that higher rates are provided for services at hospital outpatient care facilities than for similar services provided by physicians. This legislation would provide a number of fixes to this issue, including by directing the Department of Health and Human Services to consider the off campus departments as part of the same entity, and ending the grandfathering exception to current site neutral payment policy. This legislation would save taxpayers billions in spending by preventing a market distortion that doesn’t benefit patients. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-bilirakis-lead-bipartisan-call-urging-continued-progress-on-negotiations-to-return-parthenon-marbles-to-greece,"Pappas, Bilirakis Lead Bipartisan Call Urging Continued Progress on Negotiations to Return Parthenon Marbles to Greece",2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressmen Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus, led a letter calling on Great Britain to return to the negotiation table in discussions about returning the Parthenon Marbles to Greece. “Today we write to you as members of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus, urging British officials to return to earnest discussions with Greece over the reunification of the Parthenon Sculptures. The return to their historic and natural setting would be lauded and celebrated worldwide, and we call for the resumption of robust negotiations to that end,” wrote the lawmakers. They continued, “... it is past time that they return home to be reunified with the rest of the sculptures from which they were ripped apart. This will allow visitors to view and appreciate them in totality as part of a greater whole in their natural and rightful environment.” Background: The Marbles were created in Athens by Pheidias and were part of a frieze that wrapped around the Temple of Athena. More than 200 years ago the Marbles were removed from Greece by Thomas Bruce, seventh Earl of Elgin and transported to Great Britain. In 1816, the British Parliament voted to purchase the Marbles and they now reside in the British Museum. Despite years of efforts by the Greek Government to retain the Marbles, it has been unable to negotiate an agreement with its British counterparts to return the Marbles to Greece. In recent weeks, negotiations between Greece and the United Kingdom on this important cultural matter have deteriorated.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-joins-call-for-increased-home-heating-assistance,Pappas Joins Call for Increased Home Heating Assistance,2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joined 115 House members in requesting increased funding for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). “As you know, LIHEAP helps families who are at risk of being unable to afford to heat their homes in the winter or cool them in the summer. Last year, more than six million households across the country relied on critical assistance from the LIHEAP program,” the lawmakers wrote. “For the families who receive LIHEAP, it is a critical lifeline that prevents them from making the impossible choice between staying warm and having enough food or paying for their medications.” New Hampshire was recently awarded a total of $27,690,278 in LIHEAP funding for this winter, including $26,926,592 in formula funding and an additional $763,686 from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Despite the significant federal investment, LIHEAP continues to be underfunded, with just 20 percent of eligible households currently receiving assistance through the program. To assist households seeking to determine their eligibility for LIHEAP funding, HHS recentlyreleased a tool in English, Spanish, traditional Chinese, and simplified Chinese for households to quickly determine their eligibility.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-tillis-issue-joint-statement-recognizing-turkiyes-contributions-to-nato-and-urging-swift-approval-of-swedens-nato-accession-protocols,"Shaheen, Tillis Issue Joint Statement Recognizing Türkiye’s Contributions to NATO and Urging Swift Approval of Sweden’s NATO Accession Protocols",2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), Co-Chairs of the U.S. Senate NATO Observer Group, issued the following joint statement after meeting with the Turkish delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly to commend Türkiye’s contributions to NATO and European security and calling on Türkiye’s to swiftly approve NATO accession protocols for Sweden: “Türkiye is an important NATO Ally and we appreciate its meaningful contributions to the Alliance as well as their steadfast diplomatic and humanitarian support for Ukraine,” the Senators said. “That said, we are concerned by the Turkish Parliament’s decision to delay a vote to ratify Sweden’s NATO accession bid. Despite Sweden having fulfilled its side of its agreement with Türkiye and despite twenty-eight out of thirty NATO members ratifying its bid, Türkiye’s timeline for ratification keeps slipping. It’s beyond time for the Türkiye to advance accession protocols without further delay.” The Senators continued, “Sweden will bring unique capabilities to the Alliance that will better enable us to meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s threats. It’s also critical that Sweden be included in the upcoming NATO Summit in Washington. NATO has stood resolutely in support of Ukraine as Vladimir Putin continues to wage his unprovoked, illegal war. By welcoming a new member that shares a commitment to democracy and peace in Europe, the Alliance will remain united in holding Putin accountable. We should be ringing in the new year with 32 NATO Allies and a toast to Sweden as our newest member. Hungary and Turkiye should move without delay to make Sweden’s membership a reality.” Shaheen and Tillis met on December 7 with a delegation of Turkish representatives to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly including Türkiye’s Head of Delegation and former Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavu?o?lu. As co-chairs of the Senate NATO Observer Group, which they re-started together in 2018, the Senators lead bipartisan efforts in the Senate in support of the transatlantic Alliance and as Sweden seeks accession into NATO. In February 2023 Senators Shaheen and Tillis led a letter to the Biden Administration making clear that the Senate will not consider Türkiye’s request for F-16 aircraft until Türkiye ratifies Sweden’s NATO accession. Photos from this meeting can be found here. As co-chairs of the Senate NATO Observer Group, Shaheen and Tillis led a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers in a joint statement of support and a letter to President Biden calling for Finland and Sweden’s swift accession into NATO in response to the respective nations announcing their intent to join the transatlantic Alliance. The Senate NATO Observer Group, re-established by Shaheen and Tillis in 2018, has an expanded mission to closely monitor and inform Senators outside of national security committees about defense spending commitments of Alliance members, the process of upgrading military capabilities, the Alliance’s counter-terrorism capability, NATO enlargement and the ability of NATO member states to address unconventional warfare threats. Shaheen is a leading voice in U.S.-European relations as well as American foreign policy in the Black Sea region. In October, Shaheen and Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), chaired a subcommittee hearing on implementation of the Department of State’s strategy on security in the Black Sea region. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-introduces-bipartisan-belarus-democracy-human-rights-and-sovereignty-act-of-2023,"Shaheen Introduces Bipartisan Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2023",2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"**Shaheen’s legislation comes on the heels of her meeting with the Democratic Leader of Belarus, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who is in Washington for the Strategic Dialogue between the U.S. Department of State and Belarusian Democracy Movement** (Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee and co-chair and founder of the Free Belarus Caucus, introduced the bipartisan Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2023. The legislation comes as Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, leader of the pro-democracy movement in Belarus, visits Washington to participate in a Strategic Dialogue between the Belarus democracy movement and the U.S. Department of State. The legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-MS), co-chair of the Free Belarus Caucus, and Dick Durbin (D-IL). “Lukashenka’s autocratic government operates as a puppet for the Kremlin, allowing Belarus’s sovereign territory to be used to further Putin’s agenda as he wages an illegal and barbaric war in Ukraine,” said Senator Shaheen. “Despite this, brave Belarusians continue to fight back against the illegitimate Lukashenka regime, which also commits human rights abuses against the Belarusian people. Lukashenka is not the future – the people of Belarus are, and I have full faith they will prevail. We must continue to support them in their fight for freedom and democracy.” “No government that tramples its own citizens can prosper,” said Senator Wicker. “Lukashenko’s regime is an accomplice to Russia’s war of terror in Ukraine and must be treated as such. This legislation is a crucial step toward a better future for our friends in Belarus.” “The Belarusian people have had enough of Lukashenka’s oppression and cowardly sellout to Putin to use their country to attack Ukraine,” said Senator Durbin. “With today’s bipartisan bill, we are reiterating that the United States Senate fully supports the aspirations of Belarusians to live in a democratic, sovereign, independent country, and we stand in solidarity with Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, and the Belarusian people, who continues to strive for a free Belarus.” Shaheen’s bill condemns the Lukashenka regime’s support for Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and recognizes Sviatlana Tsikanouskaya as the Democratic Leader of Belarus. It calls for a return to free and fair elections and for observer status for the Belarus democracy movement at international institutions. The legislation also includes provisions to support a free and independent media environment in Belarus and investigations into the Lukashenka regime’s conduct of and support for war crimes and the crime of aggression against Ukraine. The bill includes a Shaheen-authored provision to establish a Special Envoy for Belarus and mandates an annual Strategic Dialogue session between the State Department and the Belarus democracy movement until free and fair elections take place again in Belarus. A previous iteration of the bill, the Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2020, passed the House of Representatives in the 116th Congress. In 2021, Shaheen and Wicker launched the bipartisan Free Belarus Caucus following the Senators’ meeting with Tsikhanouskaya. Shaheen and Wicker have been urging the administration to appoint a U.S. Special Envoy to Belarus since August. Shaheen and Wicker also led a bipartisan resolution that reaffirms U.S. support for the Belarusian pro-democracy movement, which unanimously cleared the Senate last year. In July, Senator Shaheen led a bipartisan Congressional delegation to the NATO Summit in Vilnius, Lithuania where the delegation met with Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya to discuss a return to democracy in Belarus and the Kremlin’s illegal war in Ukraine. The Democractic Leader of Belarus has been based in Vilnius since fleeing the Lukashenka regime, who tried her in absentia earlier this year and sentenced her to 15 years in prison. Senator Shaheen previously led a bipartisan Congressional delegation to Eastern Europe, which included stops in Ukraine and Lithuania, where she met with Ms. Tsikhanouskaya to discuss Alyaksandr Lukashenka’s regime increasing human rights abuses against political opposition. Shaheen previously questioned Tsikhanouskaya during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on U.S. policy in Belarus. Senator Shaheen penned an op-ed in USA Today on why the West must come together to address the political situation in Belarus. Last year, Shaheen joined a congressional delegation visit to Poland to discuss Russian aggression against Ukraine and met with former U.S. Special Envoy for Belarus, Ambassador Julie Fisher, and members from the Belarusian pro-democracy movement. Shaheen leads a bipartisan resolution in the Senate recognizing political repression in Belarus. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-statement-on-failure-to-pass-national-security-supplemental-to-support-our-allies-and-partners-and-address-border,Shaheen Statement on Failure to Pass National Security Supplemental to Support Our Allies and Partners and Address Border,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies and a senior member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, released the following statement after the Senate failed to pass the national security supplemental funding bill: “Failure to pass a national security package only serves to embolden adversaries like Russia, Iran, the Chinese Communist Party and North Korea and shows them that the United States is not up to the task of protecting democracy. Failure to get this done would show dictators that America is not willing to stand by our friends and allies. “At a time when we face multiple crises around the world, I remain committed to working across the aisle to find common ground to support our allies and partners, secure our borders and stop the flow of illicit drugs into our country. I urge Republicans to work with us to find a bipartisan compromise—we have little time left to get this done, and failure is not an option.” Shaheen has consistently spoken out in support of the national security supplemental funding request, including on the Senate floor last month. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases/pappas-helps-pass-two-bills-to-improve-va-services-for-homeless-and-aging-veterans,Pappas Helps Pass Two Bills to Improve VA Services for Homeless and Aging Veterans,2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NH,Chris Pappas,P000614,pappas.house.gov,pappas,https://pappas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Ranking Member of the Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA), helped pass two bills focused on improving U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) services for vulnerable veteran populations, homeless and aging, in the House today. These two bills are the Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act andthe Housing our Military Veterans Effectively (HOME) Act of 2023. “There is no more sacred promise than the one we make to our service members and veterans for their service to our country,” said Congressman Pappas. “We must ensure VA services are meeting the needs of all veterans and that those who have dedicated themselves to supporting our veterans have the flexibility and resources to accomplish their mission. I’m pleased to see these bills, which will help improve VA services and resources for homeless and aging veterans, two of our most vulnerable veteran populations, pass the House today. I’ll continue working with my colleagues and VA to ensure veterans are being provided with the highest possible level of care.” Background: The Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act would improve VA programs for aging veterans. This bipartisan bill requires VA to establish agreements with outside providers to furnish medical and social services to veterans who are not in VA nursing homes, requires the VA to improve in-home assistance and support for caregivers of veterans, raises the limit on expenses for nursing home care provided outside of VA facilities, and requires several studies related to medical and health services for elderly veterans. Text of the bill is here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-hassan-and-rubio-press-department-of-defense-on-purchase-of-russian-oil,Senators Hassan and Rubio Press Department of Defense on Purchase of Russian Oil,2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) are pressing the Department of Defense on its apparent purchase of sanctioned Russian oil as revealed by recent reporting. As the Senators write, the Department of Defense has paid Motor Oil Hellas, a Greek refinery, more than $1.1 billion since 2019 – even though a majority of Motor Oil Hellas’s fuel oil comes from a Turkish shipping terminal which receives a significant portion of its oil from Russia. “The United States has led efforts to impose significant economic sanctions on Vladimir Putin and his Russian supporters that provide funding for Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine,” the Senators wrote. “While the DoD does not bear the responsibility of enforcing U.S. sanctions, it has a responsibility to make the best effort possible to prevent sanctioned goods from entering its supply chain.” “Therefore, we are very concerned about reports that the DoD is procuring various types of oil from a Greek refinery that has been receiving masked Russian oil via Turkey,” the Senators continued. “The maze-like path of the oil from terminals in Russia to the U.S. fleet is almost certainly done intentionally by Russia to evade sanctions. However, it is incumbent upon the DoD to take clear steps to ensure that it is not contributing to the Kremlin’s war in Ukraine.” This new push comes as Senators Hassan and Rubio’s legislation to strengthen sanctions on Iranian oil and hold the regime’s enablers accountable recently passed the House of Representatives. The full letter is available HERE and below: Dear Secretary Austin: We write in response to recent reports that the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) unknowingly bought oil that ultimately came from Russia – even though the U.S. has banned the import of Russian oil and sanctioned purchases of Russian oil above the $60 per barrel price cap agreed with other G7 countries. The United States has led efforts to impose significant economic sanctions on Vladimir Putin and his Russian supporters that provide funding for Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine. Even as U.S. and partner nations work to increase enforcement of sanctions, Russian entities are exploiting loopholes and workarounds, to not only bring gas and oil to market, but in some cases surreptitiously sell fuel to the DoD. While the DoD does not bear the responsibility of enforcing U.S. sanctions, it has a responsibility to make the best effort possible to prevent sanctioned goods from entering its supply chain. This is especially important considering that the DoD is one of the largest commercial purchasers of fuel oil in the world. Therefore, we are very concerned about reports that the DoD is procuring various types of oil from a Greek refinery that has been receiving masked Russian oil via Turkey. Both the Washington Post and the Project On Government Oversight presented data showing that since 2019, the DoD has paid Motor Oil Hellas, a Greek refinery, more than $1.1 billion, which includes a $479 million purchase agreement that was finalized this past May. In 2023, more than 50 percent of the fuel oil it has received and refined into usable forms came from the Dortyol Shipping Terminal in Turkey. That facility has received more than 60 percent of its fuel oil from Russia this year. The maze-like path of the oil from terminals in Russia to the U.S. fleet is almost certainly done intentionally by Russia to evade sanctions. However, it is incumbent upon the DoD to take clear steps to ensure that it is not contributing to the Kremlin’s war in Ukraine. Previously, Congress has highlighted the risk of Russia’s attempt to evade sanctions via the use of third nation shipping and to encourage the DoD to collaborate with other government agencies to ensure that sanctions are upheld. However, given the continued threat of Russian sanctions evasion, and the DoD’s unwitting involvement, we write to ask some additional questions: How is the DoD documenting the origin of procured goods – including oil – to ensure that they are not subject to sanctions? What steps are the DoD taking to ensure that sanctioned oil is not entering the DoD’s supply chain through third countries? What is the DoD doing to adjust its procurement process considering this reporting regarding the purchase of Russian oil? Did any Federal Agency warn the DoD that they may be purchasing sanctioned oil and fuels from Motor Oil Hellas or any other foreign vendor? Did any foreign entity warn the DoD that they may be purchasing oil and fuels from Motor Oil Hellas or any other foreign vendor that could be subject to sanctions? Will the DoD continue its planned procurement of oil and fuels from Motor Oil Hellas? Please respond to these questions in writing or contact our offices to schedule a briefing with staff no later than January 9, 2024. We look forward to working with you on this critical matter and to ensure that Russia continues to be held responsible and pays a high price for their unprovoked aggression. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/shaheen-nh-delegation-announce-over-15-million-in-cops-grants-headed-to-new-hampshire,"Shaheen, NH Delegation Announce Over $1.5 Million in COPS Grants Headed to New Hampshire",2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, which funds the Department of Justice (DOJ), along with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01), announced $1,563,304 allocated to New Hampshire through DOJ’s Community Oriented Policing (COPS) grant funding. “Providing law enforcement with needed resources is critical to keeping our communities safe,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to have helped secure these grants that will support hiring and training efforts, as well as strengthen school security in our state. I’ll keep working to increase investments for COPS programs that benefit New Hampshire’s law enforcement officers.” “This federal funding will help New Hampshire communities hire more police officers, as well as expand community policing and school security programs, providing law enforcement officials with the resources that they need to continue to keep our state safe,” said Senator Hassan. “New Hampshire police sacrifice every day to protect and serve our communities, and I will continue working to support Granite State police.” “New Hampshire’s law enforcement officers go above and beyond the call of duty every day to protect our communities – we must ensure they have the resources to do their jobs safely,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “I’m pleased to see these resources heading to our state to help hire more police officers, strengthen accreditation programs, train crisis intervention teams, and prevent violence in our schools. Thank you to our law enforcement community and officers for all they do to keep us safe.” “Each and every day, New Hampshire law enforcement is on the frontlines in our communities, responding to emergencies and keeping Granite Staters safe. That is why it is critical that they have the workforce and resources they need to do their jobs,” said Congressman Pappas. “These grants will help our local police departments recruit and retain officers, strengthen community policing, support mental health crisis training, and improve security at our schools. I’ll continue working to secure resources that support our local enforcement and the important work they do.” The awards are as follows: $460,320 to the Concord School District through the COPS School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) to improve security at schools and on school grounds; $302,984 to the University System of New Hampshire Implementing Crisis Intervention Teams through the COPS Community Policing Development (CPD) program; $300,000 to the New Hampshire Department of Justice Office of the Attorney General Enhancing Existing Law Enforcement Accreditation Entities through the COPS CPD program; $250,000 to Belmont Police Department, $125,000 to Allenstown Police Department; and $125,000 to Hopkinton Police Department through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP). Through her role on the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen helped allocate $324 million for Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring in federal government funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2023, an increase of $78 million from the FY 2022 level. This program supports state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies’ ability to hire, preserve and/or rehire law enforcement officers and increases community policing efforts, and will place over 1,800 more police officers on the streets of our communities. Additionally, Senator Shaheen worked to include $231 million for Office of Justice Programs and COPS Office grant programs to support efforts that improve police-community relations. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/senator-shaheen-statement-on-the-new-hampshire-public-utilities-commission-approval-of-the-triennial-energy-efficiency-plan,Senator Shaheen Statement on the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission Approval of the Triennial Energy Efficiency Plan,2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement on the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission's (NH PUC) approval of the 2024-2026 Triennial Energy Efficiency Plan. This plan outlines ratepayer-funded energy efficiency program offerings through the NHSaves program. ""I'm thrilled to see the new Triennial Energy Efficiency Plan approved, which will allow NHSaves to help more families, towns and businesses reduce their energy use and lower their utility payments,"" said Senator Shaheen. ""NHSaves enables New Hampshire to make the most out of the transformative investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act.” NHSaves is a collaboration of New Hampshire's electric and natural gas utilities, including Eversource, Liberty, New Hampshire Electric Co-op and Unitil. The program provides New Hampshire customers with information, rebates and other incentives, as well as energy audits and further support designed to save energy, reduce costs and protect the environment. Shaheen leads legislative action in the U.S. Senate to support energy efficiency projects and initiatives. Recently, Shaheen visited Exeter's Town Office to highlight a federal energy efficiency grant from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), commonly called the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, coming to Exeter and how it is leveraging efficiency and weatherization funding from NHSaves. In addition, Shaheen successfully included critical provisions of her energy efficiency bill – the Energy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act (ESIC) – with Senator Rob Portman (R-OH) in the IIJA. Shaheen was also a key supporter of the Inflation Reduction Act, which included provisions for clean energy and climate investments in New Hampshire. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-delivers-remarks-at-the-new-england-councils-washington-update,Shaheen Delivers Remarks at the New England Council’s Washington Update,2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"** Later, Shaheen hosts roundtable discussion urging Granite Staters to enroll in Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Coverage** Left: Senator Shaheen speaks at the New England Council’s Washington Update forum Right: Senator Shaheen hosts a discussion about mental health and Affordable Care Act Open Enrollment at Elliot at River’s Edge (Manchester, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) delivered remarks on her recent legislative accomplishments for New Hampshire and previewed her priorities for the upcoming year at the New England Council’s Washington Update forum. “I was glad to join the New England Council today to discuss how critical domestic policy wins are making a positive impact on our New Hampshire communities,” said Senator Shaheen. “I look forward to continuing to work with members of the New England Council and other local stakeholders to advance legislation that benefits all Granite Staters.” In her remarks, Shaheen discussed the need to address the housing and childcare shortages in NH, current events impacting national security, the status of government funding bills and the impact of events around the world. Shaheen also took questions from members of the Council, which is largely made up of local business leaders. Founded in 1925, The New England Council is the nation’s oldest regional business organization comprised of businesses, academic and health institutions and public and private organizations throughout the region. Later in the morning, Senator Shaheen hosted a discussion about mental health and the Affordable Care Act at Elliot at River’s Edge in Manchester to encourage Granite Staters to enroll in health insurance coverage via the ACA Marketplace ahead of the deadline on January 16, 2024. “It is thrilling to see that Granite Staters are ahead of pace from last year in enrolling in health coverage through the marketplace. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, so many Granite Staters are able to access cost effective health care plans,” said Senator Shaheen. “Today’s discussion with providers and stakeholders highlighted key benefits of enrolling in health insurance through the Affordable Care Act as well as shed light on ways to improve access to care in the future. Quality care should be within reach for all Granite Staters, and I encourage those that need health insurance to enroll in marketplace at Healthcare.gov before December 15 for coverage starting January 1 or before open enrollment ends on January 16.” Participating in the roundtable were Elevance, Ambetter and Harvard Pilgrim, the three insurance providers that participate in New Hampshire ACA Marketplace, as well asbehavioral health stakeholders to discuss obtaining coverage that supports mental health needs. Senator Shaheen also heard from Elliot Hospital leadership on their plans to expand behavioral health services by opening a 144 bed mental health hospital in New Hampshire using American Rescue Plan Act funding. Shaheen has spearheaded efforts to lower premiums to make health insurance more affordable for patients through her signature legislation, the Improving Health Insurance Affordability Act. Shaheen successfully secured premium tax credit enhancement provisions in the American Rescue Plan. This expansion of premium tax credits marked the biggest improvement to the ACA since it became law over a decade ago. When the tax credits were set to expire at the end of last year, Shaheen successfully extended their authorization through the Inflation Reduction Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-nh-delegation-announce-over-15-million-in-cops-grants-headed-to-new-hampshire,"Shaheen, NH Delegation Announce Over $1.5 Million in COPS Grants Headed to New Hampshire",2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, which funds the Department of Justice (DOJ), along with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01), announced $1,563,304 allocated to New Hampshire through DOJ’s Community Oriented Policing (COPS) grant funding. “Providing law enforcement with needed resources is critical to keeping our communities safe,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to have helped secure these grants that will support hiring and training efforts, as well as strengthen school security in our state. I’ll keep working to increase investments for COPS programs that benefit New Hampshire’s law enforcement officers.” “This federal funding will help New Hampshire communities hire more police officers, as well as expand community policing and school security programs, providing law enforcement officials with the resources that they need to continue to keep our state safe,” said Senator Hassan. “New Hampshire police sacrifice every day to protect and serve our communities, and I will continue working to support Granite State police.” “New Hampshire’s law enforcement officers go above and beyond the call of duty every day to protect our communities – we must ensure they have the resources to do their jobs safely,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “I’m pleased to see these resources heading to our state to help hire more police officers, strengthen accreditation programs, train crisis intervention teams, and prevent violence in our schools. Thank you to our law enforcement community and officers for all they do to keep us safe.” “Each and every day, New Hampshire law enforcement is on the frontlines in our communities, responding to emergencies and keeping Granite Staters safe. That is why it is critical that they have the workforce and resources they need to do their jobs,” said Congressman Pappas. “These grants will help our local police departments recruit and retain officers, strengthen community policing, support mental health crisis training, and improve security at our schools. I’ll continue working to secure resources that support our local enforcement and the important work they do.” The awards are as follows: $460,320 to the Concord School District through the COPS School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) to improve security at schools and on school grounds; $302,984 to the University System of New Hampshire Implementing Crisis Intervention Teams through the COPS Community Policing Development (CPD) program; $300,000 to the New Hampshire Department of Justice Office of the Attorney General Enhancing Existing Law Enforcement Accreditation Entities through the COPS CPD program; $250,000 to Belmont Police Department, $125,000 to Allenstown Police Department; and $125,000 to Hopkinton Police Department through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP). Through her role on the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen helped allocate $324 million for Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring in federal government funding legislation for fiscal year (FY) 2023, an increase of $78 million from the FY 2022 level. This program supports state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies’ ability to hire, preserve and/or rehire law enforcement officers and increases community policing efforts, and will place over 1,800 more police officers on the streets of our communities. Additionally, Senator Shaheen worked to include $231 million for Office of Justice Programs and COPS Office grant programs to support efforts that improve police-community relations. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/shaheen-hassan-applaud-us-senate-judiciary-committee-advancement-of-seth-aframes-nomination-to-the-first-circuit-us-court-of-appeals,"Shaheen, Hassan Applaud U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Advancement of Seth Aframe’s Nomination to the First Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals",2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) issued the following statement applauding the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee for advancing the nomination of Seth Robert Aframe of Hopkinton, New Hampshire, to serve as the next judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. Aframe’s nomination will be considered by the full Senate. “Seth Aframe is extremely qualified to serve as the next judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit and we have been proud to support his nomination. Mr. Aframe’s experience speaks for itself, and his dedication and commitment to justice has been commendable,” said U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan. “His extensive appellate litigation experience make him well suited to serve in this role. We thank our colleagues on the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee for their support of his nomination and urge swift action on the Senate floor to confirm him to this position.” Seth Robert Aframe was given a unanimous rating of Well Qualified by the American Bar Association, and the Committee received numerous letters of support from the New Hampshire legal community. Aframe is an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire in Concord, New Hampshire. He has served as the Chief of the Criminal Division since earlier this year, and as Appellate Chief since 2010. From 2022 to 2023, Aframe served as the Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division. Aframe joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2007, first serving in the Civil Division, then moving to the Criminal Division in 2010. From 2003 to 2007, Aframe served as a law clerk to the Honorable Jeffrey R. Howard, the First Circuit judge whom he would succeed, in Concord, New Hampshire. From 2000 to 2003, Aframe worked as an associate at Choate Hall & Stewart in Boston, Massachusetts. From 1999 to 2000, he served as a law clerk to the Honorable Judith A. Cowin, Justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, in Boston. Since 2008, Aframe has taught as an adjunct law professor at the University of New Hampshire’s Franklin Pierce School of Law in Concord. Aframe graduated from Tufts University in 1996 and Georgetown University Law Center in 1999.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-hassan-applaud-us-senate-judiciary-committee-advancement-of-seth-aframes-nomination-to-the-first-circuit-us-court-of-appeals,"Shaheen, Hassan Applaud U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Advancement of Seth Aframe’s Nomination to the First Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals",2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) issued the following statement applauding the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee for advancing the nomination of Seth Robert Aframe of Hopkinton, New Hampshire, to serve as the next judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. Aframe’s nomination will be considered by the full Senate. “Seth Aframe is extremely qualified to serve as the next judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit and we have been proud to support his nomination. Mr. Aframe’s experience speaks for itself, and his dedication and commitment to justice has been commendable,” said U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan. “His extensive appellate litigation experience make him well suited to serve in this role. We thank our colleagues on the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee for their support of his nomination and urge swift action on the Senate floor to confirm him to this position.” Seth Robert Aframe was given a unanimous rating of Well Qualified by the American Bar Association, and the Committee received numerous letters of support from the New Hampshire legal community. Aframe is an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire in Concord, New Hampshire. He has served as the Chief of the Criminal Division since earlier this year, and as Appellate Chief since 2010. From 2022 to 2023, Aframe served as the Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division. Aframe joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2007, first serving in the Civil Division, then moving to the Criminal Division in 2010. From 2003 to 2007, Aframe served as a law clerk to the Honorable Jeffrey R. Howard, the First Circuit judge whom he would succeed, in Concord, New Hampshire. From 2000 to 2003, Aframe worked as an associate at Choate Hall & Stewart in Boston, Massachusetts. From 1999 to 2000, he served as a law clerk to the Honorable Judith A. Cowin, Justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, in Boston. Since 2008, Aframe has taught as an adjunct law professor at the University of New Hampshire’s Franklin Pierce School of Law in Concord. Aframe graduated from Tufts University in 1996 and Georgetown University Law Center in 1999.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:33:57Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-leads-bipartisan-letter-urging-president-biden-to-invite-romanian-president-to-washington,Shaheen Leads Bipartisan Letter Urging President Biden to Invite Romanian President to Washington,2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) and Chair of the Europe and Regional Security Cooperation Subcommittee, led a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators in a letter today urging President Biden to invite Klaus Iohannis, President of Romania, to Washington or to consider a visit to Romania ahead of the 2024 NATO Summit. Joining Shaheen on this letter were U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Richard J. Durbin (D-IL), Gary Peters (D-MI), Peter Welch (D-VT), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Thom Tillis (R-NC). In part, the Senators wrote: “Since joining NATO in 2004, Romania has built deep partnerships with the transatlantic Alliance and strengthened the U.S.-Romania relationship on issues ranging from military cooperation to countering Russian malign influence and disinformation. […] In response to Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine last year, Romania has been a vital partner to both Ukraine and NATO. Romania has provided over $1 billion humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and welcomed more than 6 million Ukrainian refugees.” They continued: “Most critical to the enduring success of the NATO Alliance, President Iohannis announced the country’s decision to increase its defense spending to 2.5% of its GDP, making Romania a leading contributor to NATO. […] A visit by the Romanian President or a visit to Romania will enhance our strategic relationship and cooperation on regional security engagement and reaffirm our friendship to the Romanian people.” Text of the letter can be found here. Senator Shaheen is a leading voice in U.S.-European relations. In October, Shaheen and Ricketts chaired a subcommittee hearing on implementation of the Department of State’s strategy on security in the Black Sea region. Shaheen also led a congressional delegation to Romania and Georgia in February with Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) to discuss the importance of Romania’s leadership in the Black Sea region. As chair of the Senate NATO Observer Group and Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee that oversees U.S. policy towards Europe, Shaheen is a leading policymaker on efforts in defense of democracies around the globe amid Putin’s efforts to destabilize the continent. Shaheen also led on the Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act, which was signed into law, and establishes a military lend-lease program to enhance security assistance to Ukraine.?? ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-colleagues-reintroduce-legislation-to-crack-down-on-illegal-robocalls,"Senator Hassan, Colleagues Reintroduce Legislation to Crack Down on Illegal Robocalls",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan joined colleagues to reintroduce the Deter Obnoxious, Nefarious, and Outrageous Telephone (DO NOT) Call Act, which cracks down on illegal robocalls and robotexts. In 2022, Americans received 78 billion robocalls and 225 billion robotexts, and lost $65 billion to robocalls and $20 billion to robotexts. “Granite Staters are tired of the manipulative and annoying robocalls and robotexts that they receive day and night,” said Senator Hassan. “In addition to being irritating and time consuming, these calls and texts are often aimed at scamming recipients out of their hard-earned money. I’ll continue to work with my colleagues to put an end to these illegal robocalls and robotexts.” The DO NOT Call Act would improve enforcement and enhance penalties for robocallers who violate the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). The bill would create stiffer penalties for scammers who willfully and knowingly violate the TCPA, including steeper fines and a specific penalty for robocallers of a prison sentence of up to one year, with a three-year sentence penalty for scam robocallers. The bill also increases the maximum penalty for falsifying Caller ID and creates longer prison sentences for scammers involved in repeat offenses. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-applauds-senate-passage-of-armenian-protection-act,Shaheen Applauds Senate Passage of Armenian Protection Act,2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee Chair on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation and a senior member of the Armed Services Committee, applauded unanimous Senate passage of bipartisan legislation – the Armenian Protection Act – which was led by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) and would prevent the U.S. from providing security assistance to Azerbaijan for two years. This legislation was introduced in response to the Azerbaijani government’s attacks on ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh in September. “The Azerbaijani government’s appalling assault on the ethnic Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh, a centuries-old indigenous population, has led to the displacement of over 100,000 civilians, which requires strong action today to prevent further catastrophe,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud the Senate has passed the Armenian Protection Act to show the world that we stand with the Armenian people and fully condemn Azerbaijan’s ethnic cleansing of Nagorno-Karabakh.” The Armenian Protection Act would end U.S. assistance to the Azerbaijani government that is currently allowed under a waiver to Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act. Although the Freedom Support Act generally prohibits most bilateral assistance to Azerbaijan, following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, waiver authority was added to Section 907 granting additional discretion to the President to provide aid to Azerbaijan. The waiver authority has been invoked annually by Presidents of both parties since 2002. In September, following Azerbaijan’s attack on Nagorno-Karabakh, Senator Shaheen led a bipartisan joint statement calling on the Administration to urgently take steps to deter any Azerbaijani military action against Armenia. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-speaks-out-on-senate-floor-in-support-of-child-care-stabilization-grants-in-supplemental-funding-request,Shaheen Speaks Out on Senate Floor in Support of Child Care Stabilization Grants in Supplemental Funding Request,2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"Watch Shaheen’s remarks in full here. (Washington, DC) — Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) spoke on the Senate floor urging Congress to pass President Biden’s request for $16 billion to support child care stabilization grants in the domestic supplemental funding request. In 2021, Senator Shaheen led the effort to deliver $77 million in child care relief funding to the State of New Hampshire through the American Rescue Plan. Since then, she has worked to hold the State accountable for delays in distributing some of those federal funds and helped deliver grants throughout the state, especially in communities that lack access to child care facilities. The Administration’s domestic supplemental request includes $16 billion for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for child care stabilization grants, which would effectively extend the American Rescue Plan’s child care stabilization program for one additional year to provide more families with access to child care. Key Quotes: “Across the country, working families are facing impossible choices created by the lack of access to child care. Even before the COVID pandemic, families in my home state of New Hampshire and elsewhere have struggled to access affordable child care and they were often faced with shortages of available child care slots.” “I’ve visited child care centers across my state—from Littleton to Rochester and Manchester to Keene—and have seen closed classrooms and strained facilities in every corner of the Granite State. […] [Democrats] worked to deliver more than $50 billion dollars in federal funding for child care during the pandemic. […] Now with that relief funding running out, child care providers are again facing an existential crisis.” “I'm disappointed to say that in my state of New Hampshire, they delayed the distribution of that long-term funding stream, which made the last two years unnecessarily burdensome for families and child care providers across New Hampshire. In fact, I’m hearing from providers who are in desperate need of additional support to avoid closing classrooms.” “I'm really pleased that the President included $16 billion for support for child care in his domestic supplemental appropriations request to Congress, and we need to act as soon as possible to provide this critical funding.” “It’s vital for our economy as a whole. Right now, the repercussions of the child care crisis are being felt across every sector of our economy. I’ve heard from every industry across New Hampshire, including manufacturing, health care, nonprofits and tourism, that the child care crisis has hamstrung their ability to continue growing their operations.” “Families across America are relying on us to help child care providers stay open and provide affordable care options. This federal funding would improve their lives while boosting our economy by helping parents keep their jobs or return to work.” Remarks as prepared can be found below. I rise today to join my colleagues in calling on Congress to provide urgently needed resources to address the current child care crisis. Across the country, working families are facing impossible choices created by the lack of access to child care. Even before the COVID pandemic, families in my home state of New Hampshire and elsewhere struggled to access affordable child care and were often faced with shortages of available child care slots. The pandemic exacerbated these challenges—causing child care centers across the Granite State to close and forcing countless families to scramble for alternatives. The closure of a child care provider can result in higher costs for families or require a parent to leave the workforce altogether. This crisis over the past several years has underscored just how vital child care is to our workforce, families and the overall economic success of our communities. Since 2019, New Hampshire has lost nearly 1,500 child care slots as dozens of child care centers have closed their doors, straining countless families and communities. I’ve visited child care centers across my state—from Littleton to Rochester and Manchester to Keene—and have seen closed classrooms and strained facilities in every corner of the Granite State. In October 2020, New Hampshire had only half the licensed capacity necessary to serve children under the age of six in need of care. Only half. And in just one county—Coos County in the North Country—three child care centers were forced to close since January of this year. This is why I fought to deliver more than $50 billion dollars in federal funding for child care during the pandemic. This funding was critical for allowing providers to keep their doors open, improving child care affordability, expanding access to high-quality child care, increasing wages for child care workers and building the supply of child care in states like mine. And now, with that relief funding running out, child care providers are again facing an existential crisis. Congress intentionally designed child care relief to accomplish two goals: Number one: provide direct relief to providers to stabilize the sector… And number two: to provide states with the resources to make long-term investments. Disappointingly, the state of New Hampshire delayed the distribution of the long-term funding streams, which made the last two years unnecessarily burdensome for families and child care providers across the state. In fact, I’m hearing from providers in New Hampshire who are in desperate need of additional support to avoid closing classrooms. I am glad that the President included $16 billion for support for child care in his domestic supplemental appropriations request to Congress. We need to act as soon as possible to provide this critical funding. Getting this relief to providers is particularly important given the appalling delays we have seen in New Hampshire over the distribution of other child care funds. We must act swiftly to stabilize the child care industry that our families, workforce, communities and economies rely on. The value of securing access to affordable, high quality child care goes beyond the value to each individual American family: it’s vital for our economy as a whole. Right now, the repercussions of the child care crisis are being felt across every sector of our economy. I’ve heard from every industry across New Hampshire, including manufacturing, health care, nonprofits and tourism, that the child care crisis has hamstrung their ability to continue growing their operations. The lack of accessible child care options often keeps parents out of the workforce and further strains family budgets, at a time when many have faced serious economic pressures. Over the summer, I traveled up to Coos County and I heard from Michael, whose son’s child care center had recently closed. At the time of the closure, the nearest center with open slots was more than an hour away, leaving Michael and his wife, like many families across the state, to do their best to keep their jobs without local and reliable child care. Their community and local economy can’t afford for Michael or his wife, who is a critical health care worker, to leave the workforce. Women disproportionately shoulder child care responsibilities and failing to leverage these critical federal child care resources will only further force women to leave the workforce. However, there is some good news here: I’m pleased to share that my office was able to connect Michael’s family with local providers and advocates and they now have child care. But it shouldn’t be this hard. And it shouldn’t take the involvement of a U.S. Senator to make sure that family has reliable, local child care. New Hampshire’s families should have not to choose between their children and their jobs, and New Hampshire’s businesses should not have to face additional struggles in finding qualified workers. This is why Congress must act quickly to provide President Biden’s request for $16 billion for child care stabilization grants. Families across America are relying on us to help child care providers stay open and provide affordable care options. This federal funding would improve their lives while boosting our economy by helping parents keep their jobs or return to work. I appreciate my colleagues who are joining me today to speak out about the importance of providing this funding as soon as possible. I hope we can count on the Senate to pass this critical relief funding soon. Senator Shaheen has been a leader in advocating for more accessible and affordable child care. Recently, she helped introduce the Child Care Stabilization Act to provide additional federal child care stabilization funding—which was provided in the American Rescue Plan—and ensure that child care providers can keep their doors open and continue serving children and families in every part of the country. Shaheen joined Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) to introduce the Child Care for Working Families Act, which would provide affordable child care for all working families, expand access to preschool programs and increase wages for early childhood workers. She also joined U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) in reintroducing the Childcare Workforce and Facilities Act to address the national shortage of affordable, quality child care, especially in rural communities. In the government funding bill for fiscal year (FY) 2023, Senator Shaheen worked to include a $1.86 billion increase to $8.02 billion for Childcare and Development Block Grants to states, as well as a $960 million increase to Head Start, funding the program at nearly $12 billion for FY 2023. The law additionally includes an increase of $25 million to $315 million for Preschool Development Grants. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/new-hampshire-delegation-applauds-nearly-300000-from-usda-to-support-rural-development,"New Hampshire Delegation Applauds Nearly $300,000 from USDA to Support Rural Development",2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Concord, N.H. – Today, the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation applauded $297,000 heading to the state from USDA Rural Development. Specifically, $47,000 was awarded to the Merrimack County Conservation District to help develop and market Brookford Farms and $250,000 to Robie Farm in Grafton to support expansion and development. “Rural businesses, producers, and farmers play a critical role in growing our economy, and we must work to ensure they have the support they need to thrive,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “From record rainfall and flooding to devastating cold snaps, this has been a challenging year and underscores the importance of supporting local agriculture and our farmers. I’m pleased to see these resources going to some of our New Hampshire farmers to help their businesses expand operations, serve more customers directly, and improve access to sustainably sourced food.” “New Hampshire’s farmers have faced many obstacles this year, from floods to cold snaps, and they deserve the support necessary to continue growing food and creating jobs in rural communities,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m thrilled to see these federal dollars go to Brookford Farms and Robie Farm to help expand their operations in Merrimack and Grafton Counties.” “I’m excited that this federal funding will support two burgeoning New Hampshire farms,” said Senator Hassan. “Investing in sustainable agriculture businesses helps strengthen our communities, our economy, and our way of life.” “Thriving rural small businesses are good for our local economies, communities, and supply chains,” said Congressman Pappas. “I’m pleased to see this funding headed to rural small businesses in New Hampshire to ensure they can continue to grow and succeed. I remain committed to listening to the needs of small businesses and local farmers and working to ensure they have the resources and support they need.” “With today’s announcement, we celebrate the innovation and hard work of farmers, food producers, and our local supply chain,” said Sarah Waring, State Director for USDA Rural Development in Vermont and New Hampshire. “Rural Development’s business programs support this supply chain to be more efficient and more carbon neutral, while reducing costs to rebuild our local economies. Because of the Biden-Harris Administration’s demonstrated commitment to agricultural producers and entrepreneurs, our rural communities are becoming healthier and more resilient by the day.” More details on this funding are available below: $47,000 for Merrimack County Conservation District in Concord, NH This Rural Business Development Grant will improve the marketing of wholesale and retail vegetable, meat, and value-added dairy products for Brookford Farms. The project includes business development and training, creating an e-commerce site, and setting up automated marketing. This will help increase business profitability and sustainability. It will create three jobs and save approximately 20 jobs. $250,000 for Robie Farm LLC in Grafton, NH This Value Added Producer Grant will be used to provide working capital necessary to fuel the expansion of a small farm. Robie Farm LLC has continued to grow and recently opened a store in Hooksett, New Hampshire, specializing in swine. A vigorous new marketing campaign to increase direct-to-consumer sales and establish an e-commerce platform is anticipated to increase customers by 80 percent over the grant period. While still an important part of its business, reliance on high-volume wholesale customers will be diminished, improving profit margins. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-recognizes-connor-nicol-of-hampton-as-novembers-granite-stater-of-the-month,Senator Hassan Recognizes Connor Nicol of Hampton as November’s Granite Stater of the Month,2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan recognized Connor Nicol of Hampton as November’s Granite Stater of the Month. Over the past three years, 15-year-old Connor has made more than 50,000 dog tags to encourage people to remember service members who died in wars overseas. Connor was inspired to create military identification tags, commonly called “dog tags,” when he was 12 years old and watched a movie about World War II. He was struck by how young many of the service members were and he decided to take action to make sure that their names and sacrifice would be remembered. Using information from the National Archives, Connor has made dog tags for 40,000 service members who died in the Korean War and has recently expanded the project to create tags for those who died serving in the Vietnam War. It is important to Connor that the tags go to someone who actively wants it and is dedicated to honoring the name and memory of the service member. The tags have been distributed across the country, including to Veterans Service Organizations, church groups, Scout Troops, and schools. Connor’s goal is to create and distribute dog tags for those who died in additional overseas conflicts. Senator Hassan launched the “Granite Stater of the Month” initiative in 2017 to recognize outstanding New Hampshire citizens who go above and beyond to help their neighbors and make their communities stronger. To nominate a New Hampshire citizen to be a “Granite Stater of the Month,” constituents can complete the nomination form here. To read Senator Hassan’s statement for the Congressional Record, see below. I am honored to recognize Connor Nicol of Hampton as November’s Granite Stater of the Month. For the last three years, 15-year-old Connor has helped to ensure that service members who died overseas are remembered. Connor creates dog tags for people to carry, or place somewhere prominent, so that service members’ names and sacrifice will never be forgotten. Connor was inspired to create the military identification tags, commonly called “dog tags,” while watching a movie about World War II, and he was struck by how young the service members were. Knowing that many service members never came home, he wanted to make sure that those who died overseas are always remembered. Using information from the National Archives, Connor has now made dog tags for 40,000 service members who died in the Korean War, and he has recently expanded the project to create tags for those who died serving in the Vietnam War. The tags have been distributed across the country, including to Veterans Service Organizations, church groups, Scout Troops, and schools. Connor works to ensure that the tag goes to someone who actively wants it and is dedicated to honoring the name of the service member. In addition to keeping the name and memory of the fallen service member alive, the tag also serves to remind the person carrying it of the sacrifice these men and women made in service to our country. Connor’s goal is to create and distribute dog tags for those who died in additional overseas conflicts, including World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Global War on Terror. If you would like to request a tag, you can do so through his website, www.wewillremember.us. Connor’s dedication to respecting and commemorating military service is a strong reflection of the Granite State spirit of patriotism. In New Hampshire, we honor those who keep our country safe, secure, and free. I thank Connor for his work to make sure that those who died in service to our country will never be forgotten. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-hassan-and-cassidy-urge-the-social-security-administration-to-stop-overpayments-and-protect-vulnerable-social-security-recipients,Senators Hassan and Cassidy Urge the Social Security Administration to Stop Overpayments and Protect Vulnerable Social Security Recipients,2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan and Bill Cassidy, members of the Senate Finance Committee, are urging the Social Security Administration (SSA) to reduce overpayments and prevent undue harm to the most vulnerable Social Security recipients when recovering overpayments. The Senators wrote, “With more than $20 billion in outstanding overpayments, it is more important than ever that the SSA develop a plan to mitigate the impact overpayment collections have on beneficiaries and put in place better quality controls to ensure that improper payments do not occur in the future.” “We have been deeply concerned by stories from our constituents and recent reports of the extreme financial hardship placed upon beneficiaries who are asked to quickly repay in full or whose payments are halted, reduced, or reclaimed as the agency attempts to correct improper payments, many of which occurred due to agency error,” the Senators continued. The Senators’ bipartisan letter comes after a recent Senate Finance Committee hearing where Senator Hassan raised the issue of Social Security overpayments with SSA Commissioner nominee Martin O’Malley. The full letter is available HERE and below: Dear Acting Commissioner Kijakazi, We write to you today urging the Social Security Administration (SSA) to take additional action to reduce overpayments and prevent undue harm on the most vulnerable Social Security recipients when recovering overpayments. With more than $20 billion in outstanding overpayments, it is more important than ever that the SSA develop a plan to mitigate the impact overpayment collections have on beneficiaries and put in place better quality controls to ensure that improper payments do not occur in the future. As you know, Social Security benefits are a lifeline for millions of Americans, from retirees and older adults to individuals experiencing disabilities, delivering $1.4 trillion in essential benefits to more than 71 million people each year. That is why we have been deeply concerned by stories from our constituents and recent reports of the extreme financial hardship placed upon beneficiaries who are asked to quickly repay in full or whose payments are halted, reduced, or reclaimed as the agency attempts to correct improper payments, many of which occurred due to agency error. Improper payments – including both over- and underpayments – are the result of a number of issues, some of which the SSA can start addressing now and others that require Congressional action or more in-depth reforms. For example, the agency’s Fiscal Year 2022 financial statement audit revealed that the Supplemental Security Insurance program (SSI) – the program with the largest rate of overpayments – needs internal control improvements to limit the risk of improper payments and improve the financial integrity of the program. And SSA faces constraints such as low staffing levels and high staff turnover, which can contribute to improper payments. We recognize improvements will not happen overnight but will take time, resources, and committed leadership by the agency to rectify long-time system deficits and fortify the program for the future – but you must prioritize these efforts. As you work to prevent improper payments, we request that you limit harm to vulnerable beneficiaries and work collaboratively with beneficiaries to develop reasonable repayment plans in instances where overpayment has occurred. While we were encouraged to see SSA’s announcement last month that you will launch a renewed effort to prevent overpayments, including the creation of a team to review overpayment policies and procedures, more work needs to be done to address the challenges of overpayments. In light of your efforts and these ongoing challenges we request timely answers to the following: What efforts is SSA undertaking to reduce the occurrence of overpayments? For years, SSA has worked – at Congressional direction – to streamline the benefit determination process to cut back on improper payments. Can you describe what efforts have been most successful and where there is still room for improvement? How can Congress continue to help support these efforts to improve payment accuracy? What manual services and processes can be automated in order to reduce the likelihood of human error in making improper payments? How can Congress work with SSA to make it easier to automate its processes? When overpayments do occur, how are you working to prevent harm to program beneficiaries when you work to recoup the overpayment? When SSA is at fault for an overpayment, how are you working to reduce the administrative burden for beneficiaries to appeal or waive recoupment? How does the team that you announced earlier this month to review overpayment policies and procedures differ from the existing Improper Payment Prevention Team established at SSA in FY2019? Will you commit to reporting the findings of the recently established review team to Congress? When do you expect the review team’s work to be complete? Thank you in advance for your consideration. We look forward to partnering with you to reduce overpayments and the harmful impact they have on beneficiaries. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-collins-applaud-passage-of-senate-resolution-recognizing-american-diabetes-month,"Shaheen, Collins Applaud Passage of Senate Resolution Recognizing American Diabetes Month",2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME), co-chairs of the Senate Diabetes Caucus, applauded the Senate passage of their bipartisan resolution recognizing November as American Diabetes Month. The resolution supports the goals and ideals of American Diabetes Month, including public awareness of prevention and treatment options and enhancing education of the risks of developing diabetes. It also recognizes the importance of decreasing the incidences of type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes through research, treatment and prevention. “During American Diabetes Month, we think of the millions of diabetic Americans, many of whom rely on insulin to survive. We owe it to them to take overdue action in Congress to lower insulin costs so this lifesaving medication is never out of reach for those in need,” said Senator Shaheen. “Senator Collins and I will continue to advocate on behalf of Senate action towards comprehensive, meaningful changes to our laws to reduce skyrocketing insulin prices.” ""While raising awareness about the burden of diabetes, this bipartisan resolution also recognizes the progress we have made in improving the lives of millions of Americans living with diabetes,"" said Senator Collins. ""Through continued federal investment in biomedical research and by passing bipartisan legislation to address the high costs of insulin, like the INSULIN Act, we can build on this progress. As the founder and co-chair of the Senate Diabetes Caucus, I look forward to continuing to work with Senator Shaheen to support federal policies that will help to better treat, prevent, and ultimately cure this disease.” The resolution can be read in full here. As co-chairs of the Senate Diabetes Caucus, Shaheen and Collins have led action in the U.S. Senate to advance priorities that will lower the costs of insulin, invest in treatment and prioritize diabetes research. Recently, the Senators penned a joint op-ed about the importance of lowering the cost of insulin. The Senators have worked to increase awareness of the threats posed by diabetes, invest in research and improve access to treatment options. They have consistently held insulin manufacturers, insurers and pharmacy benefit managers accountable for the skyrocketing cost of life-saving insulin. Earlier this year, Shaheen and Collins commended drug manufacturers Lilly, Novo Nordisk and Sanofi’s actions to lower their list prices for their insulin products. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-statement-on-deal-to-release-50-hostages-from-gaza,Shaheen Statement on Deal to Release 50 Hostages from Gaza,2023-11-22,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees, issued the following statement after the U.S. helped broker a deal between Israel and Hamas for the release of 50 hostages, all of them women and children and potentially three Americans, that have been held in Gaza since the brutal Hamas terrorist attack on October 7th that killed more than 1,200 civilians and took more than 240 people hostage, which reportedly includes as many as 13 American citizens. “I welcome the announcement that 50 hostages will be released and allowed to return to their families. This hard-won agreement is the result of tireless negotiations and diplomacy, but it is not the end—more than one hundred innocent civilians are still being held hostage by Hamas in the aftermath of the savage terrorist attack on October 7. Having worked on numerous hostage cases, I know the agony and anguish that families experience as they face the unimaginable pain and uncertainty of being separated from their loved ones. Every effort must be made to secure the freedom of the remaining hostages and we must pull on every lever to get all Americans back home immediately,” said Shaheen. “As part of this deal, there will be a temporary pause in fighting. During that time, I hope humanitarian aid, including water, food and fuel, can be delivered quickly to directly support life-sustaining services for civilians in Gaza,” Shaheen continued. Shaheen is a strong supporter of Israel and has utilized her leadership on the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations, Armed Services and Appropriations Committees to bolster support for Israel and its people. She voted to confirm Jack Lew to the position of U.S. Ambassador to Israel. In response to the horrific terror attack on October 7, Shaheen swiftly condemned Hamas and called for enduring support for Israel. She also joined letters calling for the release of the American hostages in Gaza, support for a strong humanitarian response in Gaza and a safe pathway to safety for Americans stuck in Gaza. She has urged the Biden administration to encourage Israel to provide more detailed information on its strategy to defeat Hamas while protecting innocent civilians in Gaza. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/new-hampshire-congressional-delegation-attends-toys-for-tots-kickoff-harbor-care-thanksgiving-meal,"New Hampshire Congressional Delegation Attends Toys for Tots Kickoff, Harbor Care Thanksgiving Meal",2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"(Manchester, NH) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), alongside U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01), attended the 38th Annual Toys for Tots Campaign Kickoff at the Mall of New Hampshire. This event marks the start of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation’s drive for the upcoming holiday season, which is sponsored by the Bravo Co., 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment based in Londonderry. Photos from today’s events can be found here. ""The annual Toys for Tots Campaign Kickoff captures the true spirit of the holiday season and helps ensure that children in New Hampshire feel included in holiday celebrations,” said Shaheen. “I’m grateful for the U.S. Marine Corps and local retail community that make this drive possible by contributing their time and energy into this wonderful program.” “I am consistently impressed by the all-hands-on-deck spirit of the people of New Hampshire, something that is exemplified by all of those who are supporting Toys for Tots this holiday season,” said Hassan. “Every child deserves to feel loved and cared for, and one way we can do that is by providing a gift to children who might otherwise go without. It was great to join today’s kickoff of this important annual tradition.” “Every child deserves to have a happy holiday, and Toys for Tots is a shining example of the New Hampshire way of bringing people together to support our friends and neighbors,” said Kuster. “I want to extend my thanks to everyone involved in organizing this wonderful tradition – from the United States Marine Corps and the Mall of New Hampshire to the generous Granite Staters who contributed donations – these gifts mean so much and bring cheer to families who need our support, especially during the holidays.” “Toys for Tots helps ensure kids from all across New Hampshire have a happy holiday season,” said Pappas. “I’m glad to support their work and kick off their annual toy drive at New Hampshire’s largest donation site this morning.” Later in Nashua, the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation attended the 20th annual Thanksgiving Community Celebration at Harbor Care. This annual event welcomes more than 300 individuals and families, providing them with a meal for the Thanksgiving holiday and access to needed resources. The delegation was joined by Nashua Mayor Jim Donchess and Alex Ray, owner of the Common Man restaurants, which donated all of the food for the day’s event. “I was glad to attend Harbor Care’s annual Thanksgiving Community Celebration today to applaud the important work Harbor Care does on behalf of the community as well as assist in serving meals to those in need,” said Shaheen. “During the holiday season and beyond, it's important we work to ensure those impacted by homelessness and housing insecurity have access to the resources they need.” “I’m grateful for all that Harbor Care does for veterans and Granite Staters in need, including health care, housing, employment support,” said Hassan. “The turnout of volunteers we saw at Harbor Homes, today and at similar events across the Granite State, embodies the New Hampshire spirit of giving back to our communities, and I’m glad that I was able to take part in today’s event.” “Harbor Care is a lifeline for so many people in our community, especially during the holidays,” said Kuster. “It was an honor to join their 20th annual Thanksgiving Community Celebration and help serve holiday meals. Thank you to the dedicated staff and volunteers who go out of their way every day to ensure all of our neighbors have the support they need to thrive and a safe place to enjoy a meal over the holidays.” “I was honored to join Harbor Care to serve Thanksgiving dinner this afternoon and support the work they do to help Granite Staters experiencing homelessness,” said Pappas. “Harbor Care’s efforts to ensure individuals and families in need can access supportive services are critically important to the well-being of our communities.” Harbor Care is a Nashua-based non-profit organization that assists individuals and families in need by providing stable housing, medical and mental health care, substance misuse treatment and other vital services. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-digitize-veterans-service-records-and-address-backlog,Senator Hassan Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Digitize Veterans’ Service Records and Address Backlog,2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and James Lankford (R-OK) earlier this month introduced the bipartisan Increasing Access to Military Service Records Act, which would address the backlog of hundreds of thousands of service records requests from veterans and modernize the way in which veterans access their service records. Without access to military service records, veterans and their families cannot access service-related benefits including medical treatment, unemployment assistance, home loans, and student loans. This legislation would require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a portal for maintaining digital records of former members of the Armed Forces and to establish an advisory committee regarding the maintenance of those records. “Veterans should not be blocked from receiving benefits because of paperwork backlogs at the Defense Department, VA, or other government agencies,” said Senator Hassan. “We need to ensure that veterans are receiving the benefits that they have earned and deserve. This commonsense, bipartisan bill would modernize the system so that backlogs like this don’t happen again.” The bipartisan legislation is part of Senator Hassan’s ongoing efforts to help veterans access their service records more easily. Her office has directly helped Granite State veterans obtain their records, and previously, Senator Hassan helped pass into law bipartisan legislation that requires the U.S. Archivist to develop a strategy to eliminate the veteran record backlog. The bill that Senators Hassan and Lankford introduced builds upon that law by requiring the VA to create one easy online portal for veterans to use, so that digital records can be accessed more easily. Senator Hassan also helped develop and pass into law the PACT Act, which fundamentally reforms and improves how veterans exposed to toxic substances receive health care and benefits from the VA. Last fall, President Biden also signed into law bipartisan legislation introduced by Senator Hassan to strengthen the Solid Start program, through which VA employees contact every veteran three times by phone in the first year after veterans leave active duty service to check in and help connect these new veterans to VA programs and benefits. Additionally, Senator Hassan’s bipartisan bill directing the VA to designate one week per year as “Buddy Check Week” to organize outreach events and educate veterans on how to conduct peer wellness checks was signed into law last year, and it was held October 16th to 20th for the first time this year. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/new-hampshire-congressional-delegation-attends-toys-for-tots-kickoff-harbor-care-thanksgiving-meal,"New Hampshire Congressional Delegation Attends Toys for Tots Kickoff, Harbor Care Thanksgiving Meal",2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Manchester, NH) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), alongside U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01), attended the 38th Annual Toys for Tots Campaign Kickoff at the Mall of New Hampshire. This event marks the start of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation’s drive for the upcoming holiday season, which is sponsored by the Bravo Co., 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment based in Londonderry. Photos from today’s events can be found here. ""The annual Toys for Tots Campaign Kickoff captures the true spirit of the holiday season and helps ensure that children in New Hampshire feel included in holiday celebrations,” said Shaheen. “I’m grateful for the U.S. Marine Corps and local retail community that make this drive possible by contributing their time and energy into this wonderful program.” “I am consistently impressed by the all-hands-on-deck spirit of the people of New Hampshire, something that is exemplified by all of those who are supporting Toys for Tots this holiday season,” said Hassan. “Every child deserves to feel loved and cared for, and one way we can do that is by providing a gift to children who might otherwise go without. It was great to join today’s kickoff of this important annual tradition.” “Every child deserves to have a happy holiday, and Toys for Tots is a shining example of the New Hampshire way of bringing people together to support our friends and neighbors,” said Kuster. “I want to extend my thanks to everyone involved in organizing this wonderful tradition – from the United States Marine Corps and the Mall of New Hampshire to the generous Granite Staters who contributed donations – these gifts mean so much and bring cheer to families who need our support, especially during the holidays.” “Toys for Tots helps ensure kids from all across New Hampshire have a happy holiday season,” said Pappas. “I’m glad to support their work and kick off their annual toy drive at New Hampshire’s largest donation site this morning.” Later in Nashua, the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation attended the 20th annual Thanksgiving Community Celebration at Harbor Care. This annual event welcomes more than 300 individuals and families, providing them with a meal for the Thanksgiving holiday and access to needed resources. The delegation was joined by Nashua Mayor Jim Donchess and Alex Ray, owner of the Common Man restaurants, which donated all of the food for the day’s event. “I was glad to attend Harbor Care’s annual Thanksgiving Community Celebration today to applaud the important work Harbor Care does on behalf of the community as well as assist in serving meals to those in need,” said Shaheen. “During the holiday season and beyond, it's important we work to ensure those impacted by homelessness and housing insecurity have access to the resources they need.” “I’m grateful for all that Harbor Care does for veterans and Granite Staters in need, including health care, housing, employment support,” said Hassan. “The turnout of volunteers we saw at Harbor Homes, today and at similar events across the Granite State, embodies the New Hampshire spirit of giving back to our communities, and I’m glad that I was able to take part in today’s event.” “Harbor Care is a lifeline for so many people in our community, especially during the holidays,” said Kuster. “It was an honor to join their 20th annual Thanksgiving Community Celebration and help serve holiday meals. Thank you to the dedicated staff and volunteers who go out of their way every day to ensure all of our neighbors have the support they need to thrive and a safe place to enjoy a meal over the holidays.” “I was honored to join Harbor Care to serve Thanksgiving dinner this afternoon and support the work they do to help Granite Staters experiencing homelessness,” said Pappas. “Harbor Care’s efforts to ensure individuals and families in need can access supportive services are critically important to the well-being of our communities.” Harbor Care is a Nashua-based non-profit organization that assists individuals and families in need by providing stable housing, medical and mental health care, substance misuse treatment and other vital services. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/young-hassan-lead-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-workforce-training-employee-retention-tools,"Young, Hassan Lead Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Workforce Training, Employee Retention Tools",2023-11-17,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) reintroduced the Upskilling and Retraining Assistance Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen workforce development and ensure job providers have the necessary tools to hire and retrain workers. This legislation would increase the amount of tax-free educational assistance employees can receive from their employers and would cover expenses for education-relation tools, technology, and equipment. “With artificial intelligence influencing every sector of the economy, it’s crucial that our workforce is prepared not just for the jobs of today, but for the AI-driven jobs of tomorrow,” said Senator Young. “Our bipartisan bill would boost an important tax provision to improve workforce development opportunities and provide job creators with the necessary tools to attract and retain a workforce skilled in AI and other emerging technologies. This legislation is a win-win for both workers and employers in the digital era.” “New Hampshire is one of many states experiencing workforce challenges, including employee recruitment and retention. Investing in upskilling and retraining helps businesses and employees alike by increasing the number of qualified workers and opening up better-paying opportunities for these workers,” said Senator Hassan. The rapid pace of AI and other technological advancements underscores the importance of upskilling and training for workers across various sectors. Many businesses currently offer educational and training programs to support their workforce in adapting to these changes. However, the current tax code only allows employers to cover up to $5,250 in educational programs for their workers before workers are required to pay taxes on these benefits. This current limit, which has not been changed since 1986, is far below the cost of most higher education programs and does not cover the costs of the tools and technology required to complete educational programs. The Upskilling and Retraining Assistance Act would update the tax code by expanding the tax exclusion from $5,250 to $12,000 for the next two years. It would also expand the tax exclusion to include the cost of education-related tools and technology, including hand tools, computers and software, internet access, licensure fees, and other items deemed necessary to complete the educational programs. In addition to Senators Young and Hassan, Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) were also original cosponsors. Full legislative text can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-statement-on-us-china-fentanyl-agreement,Senator Hassan Statement on U.S.-China Fentanyl Agreement,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – President Biden and Chinese President Xi yesterday announced an agreement in which China will take additional steps to combat fentanyl trafficking. Last month, Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and a bipartisan group of Senators visited China and pushed President Xi to take this action. Senator Hassan issued the following statement on the newly announced U.S.-China fentanyl agreement: “This new agreement is one important step forward in preventing transnational criminal organizations from producing the fentanyl that is devastating communities in my state of New Hampshire and across the country. During our bipartisan delegation’s trip to China, we repeatedly stressed the need for China to take more aggressive action to crack down on the precursor chemicals used to produce fentanyl, and I am glad that our advocacy seems to have had an impact. The work now continues to keep up the pressure on China to ensure that this deal is fully enforced.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-collins-announce-additional-bipartisan-cosponsors-for-insulin-act-would-cut-insulin-costs-for-millions-more-americans,"Shaheen, Collins Announce Additional Bipartisan Cosponsors for INSULIN Act, Would Cut Insulin Costs for Millions More Americans",2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"**Shaheen and Collins are co-chairs the Senate Diabetes Caucus and have led legislation to address insulin costs and invest in diabetes research for more than a decade** (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME), co-chairs of the U.S. Senate Diabetes Caucus, today announced the addition of twelve bipartisan cosponsors for their Improving Needed Safeguards for Users of Lifesaving Insulin Now (INSULIN) Act of 2023, which would comprehensively address the skyrocketing costs of insulin, removing barriers to care and making insulin more accessible for millions of Americans. Joining Shaheen and Collins on this bill are U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Katie Britt (R-AL), Jon Tester (D-MT), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Angus King (I-ME), Mike Braun (R-IN), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA). “Access to insulin is a financial burden for many Americans who rely on it to survive. Keeping this medication within their reach is literally a matter of life and death, which is why we’ve long led action in the U.S. Senate to cut costs and why we’re redoubling our efforts through the INSULIN Act to comprehensively address the scope of this problem,” said Shaheen and Collins. “We are pleased that so many of our colleagues—on both sides of the aisle—agree and are joining us on this effort. Americans living with diabetes and the ones who love them cannot wait any longer for Congress to act – the time is now.” The Senators continued, “We are encouraged by the proactive steps taken by private companies, but that is a drop in the bucket on action that is needed to lower prices across the board and keep them there. Our legislation would address structural issues in the insulin market, create policies to foster more competition and expand access to insulin medications. This bill is the product of continued negotiations, with input from advocates, lawmakers and experts.” The INSULIN Act would directly address the root problems in the insulin market causing high list prices, while simultaneously extending vital patient protections, fostering competition, and broadening access to needed insulin products. Bill text of the INSULIN Act is available here. A new report from the American Diabetes Association that shows the cost of diabetes in America, including the cost of insulin, continues to skyrocket for patients and the federal government. More than 37 million Americans live with diabetes, including an estimated one in every three seniors. The disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, claiming over 100,000 lives in 2021. It is also the most expensive chronic condition in the nation, costing Americans a combined total of $412.9 billion per year. The rising cost of insulin presents a barrier to care for a growing number of Americans living with diabetes; 1 in 4 individuals report reducing insulin use due to cost. The INSULIN Act of 2023 would: Limit out-of-pocket costs for patients with diabetes by ensuring that group and individual market health plans must waive any deductible and limit cost-sharing to no more than $35 or 25% of list price per month for at least one insulin of each type and dosage form. Pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) would be prohibited from placing utilization management tools – prior authorization, step therapy, etc. – on products with capped out-of-pocket costs. Mandate PBMs pass through 100% of insulin rebates and other discounts received from manufacturers to plan sponsors, reducing perverse incentives in the insulin market that encourage high list prices and helping patients in the form of reduced premiums. Promote generic and biosimilar competition to lower costs to patients by: Creating a new expedited FDA approval pathway for biologic drugs lacking biosimilar competition, similar to FDA’s current Competitive Generic Therapies pathway; This will improve the timeliness of resolving regulatory barriers slowing down market entry of lower cost products; Ensuring adequate oversight of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) citizen petition process, easing approval of generic and biosimilar drugs; Allowing Medicare Part D plans to place biosimilar drugs on formulary immediately after entering the market, identical to other generic drugs; and, Requiring the Department of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and FDA, to issue a report to Congress on issues and market dynamics delaying or restricting biosimilar insulin competition.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-introduces-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-commemorate-250-years-of-the-nations-independence,"Shaheen Introduces Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Commemorate 250 Years of the Nation's Independence",2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – This week, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act, which would authorize the Architect of the Capitol to create a time capsule as part of the nation’s planned Semiquincentennial celebration and have it buried on the west lawn of the Capitol, to remain sealed until July 4, 2276, the nation’s 500th Anniversary. Cosponsors of the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act are U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Bob Casey (D-PA) and Mike Rounds (R-SD). “As we reflect on the democratic ideals our nation was built upon ahead of its 250th Anniversary celebration, it’s important we consider the impact our present-day actions have on shaping our American democracy and society in the future,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m honored to help introduce this legislation, which will preserve the rich culture and ideas of this historical moment in the United States for generations to come.” The contents of the time capsule will be determined by the offices of the Speaker of the House, the Office of the Minority Leader of the House, and the Offices of the Majority and Minority Leaders of the Senate. They will include items that represent important legislation or institutional milestones of Congress, a message from the Congress to the future Congress, and other items that reflect our history at the time of its burial in 2026. “History teaches us invaluable lessons. It’s our responsibility to learn from the people and events that came before us, and to preserve those accounts for future generations,” Senator Grassley said. “Burying a time capsule on the anniversary of the day the Founding Fathers adopted the Declaration of Independence would honor their mark on our nation and serve as a way to document the milestones still to come.” “I am proud to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of our country’s founding by being a cosponsor of this resolution to establish a congressional time capsule to share with future generations,” said Senator Tillis. “This time capsule will be opened upon our nation’s 500th Anniversary, and I look forward to ensuring we provide future Americans with key insights into our enduring principles and values as Americans.” “George Washington’s first wish was to see the whole world in peace, and the inhabitants of it as one band of brothers, striving who should contribute most to the happiness of mankind,” said Senator Rounds. “As we prepare for our nation’s 250th birthday celebration in 2026, that wish remains the same. The celebration of America’s semiquincentennial is a special time in our nation’s history, and I am pleased to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan legislation to symbolize important institutional milestones.” “As we approach the 250th anniversary of our great democratic experiment, we have an obligation to honor our history while also looking towards the future. The Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act helps to preserve this moment in history for future Americans to reflect on,” said Senator Casey. “As the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence, Philadelphia played an instrumental part in our Nation’s history, and I look forward to celebrating this historic occasion, especially Pennsylvania’s role in the founding of our Nation.” “The 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding is a time of reflection and celebration. As we near this momentous milestone, I’m proud to join my America250 Congressional Caucus colleagues in cosponsoring the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act to enable the preservation of items and messages from our to the future Congress,” said Senator Blumenthal. A companion bill has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12). Cosponsors in the House include Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Don Davis (NC-01), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07), Mike Lawler (NY-17), Lisa McClain (MI-09), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15), Dina Titus (NV-01), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Lori Trahan (MA-03) and Robert Wittman (VA-01). Full bill text is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-address-targeted-recruitment-of-service-members-by-china,Shaheen Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Address Targeted Recruitment of Service Members by China,2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, along with U.S. Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ), introduced the Defending Against Adversary Recruitment Efforts (DAARE) Act, bipartisan legislation that would prohibit former American service members from working for the national security apparatus of the governments of China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and Cuba. This important legislation comes amid reports that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China has sought to recruit U.S. and NATO-allied service members, including pilots with knowledge of stealth and advanced systems, to enhance the PLA’s military capabilities. Shaheen’s legislation will create the necessary protections to defend our national security interests and ensure our adversaries do not gain a competitive advantage over the United States or our partners and allies. “This targeted recruitment campaign led by the Chinese Communist Party is meant to undermine American national security and imperil our service members overseas,” said Senator Shaheen. “This legislation sends a clear message to our adversaries that American service members are not for sale.” “The Chinese Communist Party is doing everything it can to steal American military secrets—including targeting former military service members for their knowledge and skills,” said Senator Cotton. “Congress and the Department of Defense need to work together to ensure this doesn’t happen. This bill will prohibit current and former members of our military from working for America’s adversaries.” “As a 25-year Navy combat veteran, I know firsthand the might of our military power and how hard our foreign adversaries work to get access to it,” said Senator Kelly. “By addressing recruitment efforts of current and former American service members by China, this bill ensures that our military remains the best in the world while protecting our national security.” Earlier this year, Senator Shaheen included her DAARE Act legislation in the Senate-passed Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act. In October, Shaheen led a bipartisan letter with Senators Cotton and Kelly to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urging the Department of Defense to take immediate action to deter the targeted recruitment of separating service members being conducted by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and backed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The senators sent the letter in response to a recent Air Force memo detailing PLA efforts to recruit service members separating from the military in order to learn the sensitive military tactics, techniques and procedures used by the U.S. military. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-statement-on-passage-of-the-continuing-resolution-to-keep-government-open,Shaheen Statement on Passage of the Continuing Resolution to Keep Government Open,2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee and Chair of the Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, today issued the following statement after Congress passed a continuing resolution that will keep the government open into the new year: “On behalf of Granite Staters and all Americans, I’m relieved this bill was passed to keep the government open and prevent significant harm to families and small businesses in New Hampshire,” said Shaheen. “While this continuing resolution will ensure federal workers and service members get their paychecks and families can continue to access critical services, I’m deeply disappointed this stop-gap bill does not include any additional support for our allies and partners abroad who are facing down terrorists and autocrats. I will keep working with my colleagues to ensure we pass a supplemental funding package that covers the breadth of our national security interests, which includes support for Ukraine, Israel and our Indo-Pacific partners.” The Senator continued, “Stop-gap funding bills create inefficiencies within government that only serve to waste American taxpayer dollars and sow uncertainty in the economy. In the Senate, I’ve been proud to work alongside my colleagues to craft strong, bipartisan funding bills—having recently passed three of them out of the Senate. In the New Year, it’s my hope that House Republicans will choose to act responsibly, hold to the bipartisan deal they made with President Biden in May and work with Democrats to pass full-year appropriations bills.” Earlier this month, Shaheen voted for Senate-passage of funding legislation that includes numerous priorities she championed that will benefit New Hampshire. Over the past few weeks, Shaheen has spoken out in support of a full, comprehensive supplemental funding package that would recognize the breadth of our national security interests, including humanitarian aid and support for Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/ahead-of-asia-pacific-economic-cooperation-forum-shaheen-leads-bipartisan-efforts-to-address-chinas-malign-influence-in-latin-america-and-globally,"Ahead of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum, Shaheen Leads Bipartisan Efforts to Address China’s Malign Influence in Latin America and Globally",2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees (SFRC), and U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced a pair of resolutions aimed at countering the malign influence of the People's Republic of China (PRC) in Latin America and internationally. The resolutions come ahead of this week’s Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum in San Francisco where President Joe Biden is expected to meet with PRC President Xi Jinping. “To better counter China’s attempts to disrupt international norms and spread its malign influence, including by engaging in coercive economic practices that stymie economic growth and democratic governance, we must work to deepen our economic and diplomatic ties with our Allies and partners in Latin America and around the world,” said Senator Shaheen. “These bipartisan resolutions would make clear that the United States can and must make additional economic, security and political investments to remain the partner of choice internationally.” “As we traveled to South America on a bipartisan CODEL earlier this year, it became crystal clear that China’s influence in the region is growing and undermining our national interest. It must be the policy of the U.S. government to counter this influence, maintain the dominance of the dollar, and keep our nation as the go-to resource for trade and resources in South America,” said Senator Budd. Shaheen and Budd’s first bipartisan resolution works to support the United States dollar as the reserve currency of the world, which would combat the PRC from gaining an economic foothold as they work to create a competing reserve currency to compete with and undermine the United States’ economic influence across the world. The resolution is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Marco Rubio (R-FL). In 1999, the U.S. dollar accounted for approximately 71% of official global currency reserves and has since declined to 59% in 2023. Simultaneously, the PRC is now the largest official creditor and provider of export subsidies in the world, leading to an increased reliance on capital from the PRC amongst developing nations. The PRC uses this leverage to saddle these nations with unsustainable debt while refusing to disclose their lending practices or engage in debt restructuring. Recently, South America’s two largest economies, Brazil and Argentina, have taken steps to deepen their ties with the PRC. The second bipartisan resolution from Shaheen and Budd urges additional U.S. investment in Latin America, including by expanding opportunities for private sector investment in critical infrastructure projects and by developing and promoting new public-private partnerships to strengthen the economic engagement of the United States and advance democratic governance in the region. It also encourages the President and the Secretary of State to work with the Senate to expeditiously nominate and confirm Ambassadors to the region to ensure continued engagement with partner governments in Latin America. The resolution also condemns the coercive economic practices of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the CCP’s attempts to conduct malign information operations in Latin America that sow distrust in public institutions. The resolution is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Peter Welch (D-VT). Earlier this year, Shaheen participated in a bipartisan CODEL to Latin America with Senator Budd, highlighting efforts to counter malign Chinese influence in the region and interdict drug trafficking. Shaheen is a leader in the Senate in the push against an increasingly competitive and aggressive Xi regime. Shaheen is Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, and secured important provisions in the historic Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act of 2022, which was signed into law last year. The historic legislation develops U.S. policy to address strategic, economic and diplomatic tools for a global strategy that will allow the United States to confront the challenges that China poses to the United States. Earlier this year, Shaheen introduced the Protecting American Capital Act, bipartisan legislation that would require the U.S. Department of Treasury to annually report to Congress on the United States’ financial exposure to China. Shaheen also co-sponsored bipartisan legislation which passed the Senate earlier this year, the Increasing American Jobs through Greater Exports to Africa Act, to improve U.S. competitiveness in Africa and Latin America and the Caribbean. Shaheen previously led the Transatlantic Telecommunication Security Act (TTSA), which would strengthen European telecommunications infrastructure and counter China’s influence by helping key allies in the region build 5G networks. Shaheen serves as an honorary co-chair of the Global Tech Security Commission, which seeks to develop a global tech security strategy that safeguards freedom through the adoption of trusted technology. Shaheen also joined bipartisan legislation, the China Grand Strategy Commission, which would create a China Grand Strategy Commission to hold China accountable for its attempts to undermine international norms.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-joins-cortez-masto-to-introduce-bicameral-bill-to-keep-manufactured-housing-costs-down,Shaheen Joins Cortez Masto to Introduce Bicameral Bill to Keep Manufactured Housing Costs Down,2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) joined U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), along with U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-MN) and Jon Tester (D-MT) and U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) to introduce bicameral legislation that would help preserve and revitalize manufactured housing communities. There are over 140 resident-owned manufactured housing communities in New Hampshire. “Granite State families shouldn’t have to worry about losing the roof over their heads, but unfortunately, that’s a reality that many face every day,” said Senator Shaheen. “New Hampshire has more than 140 resident-owned manufactured housing communities (ROCs), and this crucial legislation would provide resources to those manufactured housing communities to make much-needed water and infrastructure upgrades and will keep working class families in affordable homes.” Democrats created the Preservation and Reinvestment Initiative for Community Enhancement (PRICE) grant program in 2022 to help preserve and revitalize manufactured housing in eligible communities. This bill would make the PRICE program permanent, providing funding for home improvements and neighborhood upgrades for thousands of Americans each year. “Manufactured homes are critical for many families, and my legislation would help communities keep lot rents affordable and make vital infrastructure improvements,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I’ll keep working with my colleagues to address the affordable housing crisis and keep families in their homes.” “We have a severe shortage of housing across the country, and it’s important to maintain and preserve the affordable options we have. Manufactured homes are often more affordable than other housing, but many manufactured housing communities do not have funds to upgrade and repair basic infrastructure such as water and sewer systems, and homeowners typically do not own the land beneath their homes,” said Representative Bonamici. “I’m pleased to work with Senators Cortez Masto and Shaheen to introduce the PRICE Act, which will make the PRICE grant program permanent and protect a crucial source of funding for preserving manufactured housing.” Senator Shaheen is a leader in the Senate working to combat homelessness and help ensure Granite Staters have the resources they need to thrive. In April, she led the New Hampshire congressional delegation in announcing over $9 million in Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) funds for the state. The funds were authorized by congressional Democrats’ American Rescue Plan Act and signed into law by President Biden, which included nearly $50 billion for housing, including support for vulnerable renters and homeowners. This is in addition to the $25 billion in emergency rental assistance included in the December 2020 emergency COVID-19 relief legislation, which Shaheen helped lead as part of the “908 Coalition.” Shaheen has also led legislation to ensure that thousands of low-income tenants in rural areas are able to maintain access to safe and affordable housing. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/icymi-shaheen-ricketts-spoke-at-atlantic-council-about-ongoing-war-in-ukraine-regional-dynamics-across-central-europe,"ICYMI: Shaheen, Ricketts Spoke at Atlantic Council About Ongoing War in Ukraine, Regional Dynamics Across Central Europe",2023-11-13,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) — U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) and Chair of the Europe and Regional Security Cooperation Subcommittee, and U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee, participated in a conversation, “Leadership and Resilience on Europe’s Frontlines,” as part of the Atlantic Council’s 2023 Central Europe Week. During the event, which was moderated by Fred Kempe, President and CEO of the Atlantic Council, the Senators discussed the United States’ continued support to Ukraine as well as additional national security issues impacting Central Europe, such as the war in Gaza and the impact of Russia and China’s malign influence across Central Europe. You can watch the event here. “Central Europe has really stepped up, like the United States and all of our NATO allies, to support Ukraine against this brutal war against Russia,” said Shaheen. “[Winning the war] is not just about Putin. Our other adversaries are watching very closely what we do here. You can bet President Xi in China is watching what the United States and our allies do.” The Atlantic Council is a nonpartisan organization that urges U.S. leadership and engagement in the world to shape solutions to global challenges, along with allies and partners. Senator Shaheen is a leading voice in U.S.-European relations. Shaheen has led multiple bipartisan delegations to Ukraine and met with President Zelenskyy and members of his Cabinet. In October, Senator Shaheen led a congressional delegation with Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) to the Western Balkans to engage with partners amid continued Russian interference and to convey support for their Euro-Atlantic aspirations. Shaheen leads legislation in the U.S. Senate to address a U.S. strategy toward key political regions in Europe to bolster European security and transatlantic unity. In October, Shaheen and Ricketts chaired a subcommittee hearing on implementation of the Department of State’s strategy on security in the Black Sea region. As chair of the Senate NATO Observer Group and Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee that oversees U.S. policy towards Europe, Shaheen is a leading policymaker on efforts in defense of democracies around the globe amid Putin’s efforts to destabilize the continent. Shaheen also led on the Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act, which was signed into law, and establishes a military lend-lease program to enhance security assistance to Ukraine. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/11/15/2023/senator-hassan-statement-ahead-of-veterans-day,Senator Hassan Statement Ahead of Veterans Day,2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Senator Maggie Hassan released the following statement ahead of Veterans Day: “On this Veterans Day, we resolve to honor those who confronted great dangers and bore great burdens to keep us safe and free. Our security and liberty are not won without sacrifice, and history, as well as Hamas’s attack on Israel and Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, have taught us that evil is not easily defeated. “Those of us who haven’t served cannot fully imagine the sacrifices and trials experienced by veterans; the long and painful absences from home and family, and the wounds – both visible and invisible — that can last a lifetime. While we can never fully repay the debt that we owe our nation’s veterans and their families, we can commit to being the kind of country that will honor and do right by them. And work to make our country ever worthy of their service.” To mark Veterans Day, Senator Hassan will deliver remarks at the Veterans Day Ceremony at the New Hampshire Veterans Home in Tilton tomorrow as well as the Manchester Veterans Day parade on Saturday morning. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/finance-committee-advances-bipartisan-package-with-multiple-hassan-bills-to-lower-prescription-drug-costs-and-strengthen-mental-health-care-and-addiction-treatment,Finance Committee Advances Bipartisan Package with Multiple Hassan Bills to Lower Prescription Drug Costs and Strengthen Mental Health Care and Addiction Treatment,2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) voted in the Senate Finance Committee to advance bipartisan legislation to lower prescription drug costs and expand access to mental health care, including her bipartisan bill to expand Medicare coverage of occupational therapy to improve mental health and addiction treatment and her bipartisan bill to expand access to short-term inpatient treatment at addiction treatment facilities. “This bipartisan legislation takes important steps to lower prescription drug costs for seniors while also expanding access to mental health care and lifesaving care for those struggling with opioid addiction,” said Senator Hassan. “Last year, we took on Big Pharma by giving Medicare the ability to negotiate for lower drug prices. The legislation that we advanced takes important additional steps forward to help all Americans access and afford the care that they need.” The Better Mental Health Care, Lower-Cost Drugs, and Extenders Act, which advanced from the Senate Finance Committee, expands coverage of mental health care in Medicare and lowers prescription drug prices for those on Medicare Part D. The bill also includes multiple bills that Senator Hassan has led on, including: 1. The Occupational Therapy Mental Health Parity Act that Senator Hassan and Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) introduced to expand access to occupational therapy for patients being treated for mental health and substance use disorders 2. The Securing Advances and a Variety of Evidence-Based (SAVE) Institutions for Mental Disease (IMD) Options Act that Senator John Thune (R-SD) and Senator Hassan introduced to remove barriers for individuals on Medicaid to access short-term residential stays for substance use disorder treatment Senator Hassan’s push is part of her ongoing efforts to lower health care and prescription drug costs for Americans. Senator Hassan recently introduced a bipartisan bill to prevent hospital systems from charging hospital facility fees for care received at outpatient facilities located away from the hospital. Senator Hassan led successful bipartisan efforts to help eliminate surprise medical billing, which has prevented at least 9 million surprise bills. Last year’s government funding bill, which is now law, also included three bipartisan measures backed by Senator Hassan to increase access to generic and biosimilar medications. Additionally, the Inflation Reduction Act included a number of key provisions that Senator Hassan pushed for to take on Big Pharma and address the skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs, including allowing Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices – which will bring down the cost of prescription drugs for Medicare beneficiaries and help drive down prices across the board. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-joins-van-hollen-democrat-colleagues-in-letter-to-president-biden-requesting-more-information-on-strategy-to-defeat-hamas-protect-civilians-in-gaza,"Shaheen Joins Van Hollen, Democrat Colleagues in Letter to President Biden Requesting More Information On Strategy to Defeat Hamas, Protect Civilians in Gaza",2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), joined a group of Senators, led by U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Jack Reed (D-RI), in a letter to President Biden that strongly condemns the brutal attack by Hamas on innocent Israelis on October 7 and urges the United States to work with the Government of Israel to ensure an effective strategy to degrade and defeat Hamas while ensuring the safe return of hostages and continued responsiveness to the needs of civilians in Gaza. Shaheen continues to support immediate funding to replenish Israel’s defensive systems so it can defeat Hamas and counter broader regional threats to its long-term security and stability. In part, the Senators wrote: “We have joined you in condemning the brutal terror attacks that Hamas conducted against Israel and agree with you that Israel has the right to defend itself and hold Hamas accountable. […] The attacks of October 7th brought back chilling memories of the United States’ own confrontation with terror twenty-two years ago. In light of our own experience, we want to underscore how critical it is that Israel: (1) learn from the mistakes the United States made in our fight against terrorism by focusing on realistic and achievable military goals; and (2) abide by the laws of war, including the protection of civilians.” The Senators raise a series of concerns about the ongoing conflict and request an assessment from the Biden Administration regarding Israel’s military strategy in Gaza, the release of hostages held by Hamas and plans for governance in Gaza once the military operation ends. They also request an assessment on Israel’s military rules of engagement and they ask the Administration to seek immediate public assurances from Prime Minister Netanyahu that his coalition government will immediately stop the escalating extremist settler violence directed against Palestinians in the West Bank, as well as assurances from President Abbas that his government take steps to quell any violence against Israelis. In closing, they wrote: “We support additional assistance to Israel that: 1) aligns with an Israeli strategy that you believe will effectively degrade and defeat the threat from Hamas; 2) prioritizes the release of hostages; 3) advances a viable and achievable military plan that supports a long-term vision for peace, security and Palestinian self-determination in the form of a two-state solution; 4) abides by U.S. and international law, including the protection of civilians; and 5) advances efforts to provide desperately needed humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza.” Along with Shaheen, Van Hollen, Murphy, Schatz and Reed, the U.S. Senators were joined by: Peter Welch (D-VT), Angus King (I-ME), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tina Smith (D-MN), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Richard Durbin (D-IL), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tom Carper (D-DE), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Ed Markey (D-MA), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Tim Kaine (D-VA). Shaheen is a strong supporter of Israel and has continually utilized her leadership on SFRC as well as the Senate Armed Services and Appropriations Committees to bolster Israel and its people. In response to the horrific terror attack on October 7, Shaheen swiftly condemned Hamas and called for enduring support for Israel while reaffirming d Israels’ right to defend itself and its people. She also joined letters calling for the release of the American hostages in Gaza, support for a strong humanitarian response in Gaza and a safe pathway to safety for Americans stuck in Gaza. She has joined efforts to call for strategic and tactical pauses—led by Israel and regional leaders—in the fighting in Gaza to get people out and humanitarian aid in. She has reiterated that, for this to work, Israel must be able to pursue their security objectives in line with international laws and norms. Shaheen also believes that safely securing the release of all the hostages is paramount. During Jack Lew’s confirmation hearing, she posed questions to him and later voted to confirm him as U.S. Ambassador to Israel. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/11/15/2023/passed-the-house-senators-hassan-and-rubios-bipartisan-bill-to-establish-additional-sanctions-on-iranian-regime,PASSED THE HOUSE: Senators Hassan and Rubio’s Bipartisan Bill to Establish Additional Sanctions on Iranian Regime,2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – As Iranian oil sales to China continue to help fund Iran’s dangerous regime – which also finances Hamas and Hezbollah – the U.S. House of Representatives recently passed Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL)’s bipartisan Stop Harboring Iranian Petroleum (SHIP) Act, which would take additional steps to sanction illicit purchases of Iranian oil and hold the regime’s enablers accountable. “Especially as Israel continues to defend against terrorists that Iran helps fund, we must do all that we can to cut off Iran’s key revenue streams,” said Senator Hassan. “I am glad to see the House pass this bipartisan legislation to sanction those who enable purchases of Iranian oil, and I urge my colleagues in the Senate to support this bill so that we can get it to President Biden’s desk.” “Our nation’s foreign adversaries must know they will face consequences for empowering other regimes that are anti-democratic and anti-American. We must enact and then rigorously enforce this bill so that those who are enriching themselves through the sale of sanctioned oil, or linked with its illicit trade, are held accountable,” said Senator Rubio. Joining Senators Hassan and Rubio in cosponsoring this legislation were Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), John Hoeven (R-ND), Rick Scott (R-FL), John Barrasso (R-WY), Katie Boyd Britt (R-AL), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Josh Hawley (R-MO), John Boozman (R-AR), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Susan Collins (R-ME), Mike Braun (R-IN), John Thune (R-SD), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Roger Marshall (R-KS), John Cornyn (R-TX), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Tedd Budd (R-NC), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), and John Kennedy (R-LA). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-secures-commitment-from-dhs-secretary-mayorkas-on-northern-border-data-during-appropriations-hearing,Shaheen Secures Commitment from DHS Secretary Mayorkas on Northern Border Data During Appropriations Hearing,2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"** Watch the Senator’s opening remarks and questioning here.** (Washington, DC) — Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, secured a commitment from U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Mayorkas to work with her on the New Hampshire-specific migrant encounter data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that Shaheen has been requesting for months. During her remarks, Shaheen also raised the ongoing telecommunications infrastructure gaps facing local law enforcement along the Northern border, and Secretary Mayorkas committed to working with Senator Shaheen to address these telecommunications issues as well. Watch the Senator’s opening remarks and questioning here. “Most of the discussion about our borders has to do with the Southern border. But in fact, what we’re seeing is increased encounters across our Northern border as well. […] We need accurate information, so we know how to address law enforcement issues, communication issues at our Northern border just as we do at the Southern border,” said Shaheen. Last week, Shaheen sent a letter to Secretary Mayorkas urging for the release of New Hampshire-specific border encounter data. In the letter, Shaheen calls on CBP to release this data, which has not been made available despite the Senator’s request. Her letter also requests an expansion of telecommunications infrastructure and attention to other resources to assist law enforcement in the region. The Senator’s letter comes as the number of migrant encounters on the Northern border rose compared to last year’s data. Senator Shaheen has long advocated for and worked to enhance protections at our Northern border. In addition to the above letter that Senator Shaheen sent last week to Secretary Mayorkas about the importance of protecting New Hampshire’s border, in September, Shaheen visited officials in Pittsburg, New Hampshire, to receive a briefing on immigration enforcement efforts and ongoing communications challenges due to the remoteness of the area and lack of technology infrastructure. During the current appropriations cycle, Senator Shaheen continues to advocate for funding for the Northern border. When she was the top Democrat on the U.S. Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, she oversaw increased funding for CBP and included direction to DHS to focus on the Northern border. As Governor, and in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, she worked on a bipartisan basis with the New Hampshire State Legislature to increase security at the border and ports of entry. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-hosts-nh-photographers-ukraine-photo-exhibit-in-washington,Shaheen Hosts NH Photographer’s Ukraine Photo Exhibit in Washington,2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"** Oksana Markarova, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States also attended** (Washington, DC)— Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chair of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation, hosted Patrick Patterson, a documentary photographer from Newington, New Hampshire, in Washington to exhibit photos Patterson took during his 14 months living in Ukraine. The photos document life during the war for Ukrainians resisting Putin’s aggression and in some cases, shows Ukrainians’ experiences living under Russian occupation. Oksana Markarova, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States, was also in attendance. Photos from the exhibit can be found here. “I was glad to host Newington’s Patrick Patterson’s exhibit in the Senate today to showcase the heart-wrenching photos that demonstrate the bravery, resilience and daily challenges of the Ukrainian people during Putin’s ongoing war,” said Senator Shaheen, senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees. “This exhibit serves as an important reminder of the atrocities endured by the Ukrainian people and underscores the importance of continued support for Ukraine in their fight for freedom and democracy.” “Izyum—where I spent much of my time when I was living in Ukraine—symbolizes Russia’s wickedness. When Russian soldiers retreated from Izyum, they not only left behind the dead; they left behind the living witnesses who share stories of rape, torture, and murder. When the narrative shifts from the business of war and starts showing Russian atrocities, the response to Russia’s aggression might be different. When the world saw images of murdered civilians lying next to bikes on the roads of Bucha, they responded. I am grateful to U.S. Senator Shaheen for helping amplify the voices of Ukraine and honored to have Ambassador Oksana Markarova at the U.S. Capitol today,” said Patrick Patterson. “I am thankful to photographer Patrick Patterson and Senator Jeanne Shaheen for supporting this important exhibit at the Russell Rotunda. These photographs are true windows into the stories of those who have experienced Russian occupation, oppression and war crimes. They carry powerful messages of our collective national resilience and courage and as such create change, reminding international audiences about what is at stake in this war,” said Oksana Markarova, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States. Patrick Patterson is a New Hampshire-based freelance photographer. During his 14 months in Ukraine, Patterson experienced artillery, drone and missile attacks firsthand and connected with Ukrainian citizens directly impacted by Putin’s war. Patterson’s photographs will be on display in the Russell Rotunda through Thursday, November 9, 2023. A member of the U.S. Senate Ukraine Caucus, Shaheen has led action in the Senate to support Ukraine in response to Putin’s barbaric war. Shaheen spoke on the Senate floor in favor of continued support to Ukraine through a supplemental funding request. Shaheen has led multiple bipartisan delegations to Ukraine and met with President Zelenskyy and members of his Cabinet. Shaheen leads legislation in the U.S. Senate to address a U.S. strategy toward key political regions in Europe to bolster European security and transatlantic unity. As chair of the Senate NATO Observer Group and Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations subcommittee that oversees U.S. policy towards Europe, Shaheen is a leading policymaker on efforts in defense of democracies around the globe amid Putin’s efforts to destabilize the continent. Shaheen led on the Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act, which was signed into law, and establishes a military lend-lease program to enhance security assistance to Ukraine. Shaheen also leads the Promoting Readiness for Overseas Contingencies and Unexpected Responses to Exigencies (PROCURE) Act with Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), which would establish a Critical Munitions Acquisition Fund (CMAF) to allow the Secretary of Defense to better manage industry production lines and sustain particular munitions lines that are critical to U.S. national security interests. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-rounds-lead-bipartisan-letter-urging-the-dod-to-increase-funding-to-address-pfas-contamination,"Shaheen, Rounds Lead Bipartisan Letter Urging the DoD to Increase Funding to Address PFAS Contamination",2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC)— U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Mike Rounds (R-SD), senior members of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, sent a bipartisan letter to Department of Defense (DoD) Secretary Lloyd Austin urging the DoD to increase funding necessary to accelerate testing and remediation for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination related to military installations in fiscal year (FY) 2025. The Senators wrote, in part, “The Department has historically struggled to execute increased funding levels Congress has been willing to authorize for PFAS remediation, resulting in a growing backlog of contaminated sites across the country that threaten the health and safety of communities, including those who live on or near military installations.” “We urge you to provide the funding necessary to fully implement the Department’s recently announced policy on ‘interim actions’ for sites contaminated by PFAS. While we welcome the announcement of this new policy, we note the importance of ensuring implementation be fully funded to capitalize on opportunities for accelerated action,” the Senators continued. The Senators asked for a detailed update on implementation progress by December 30, 2023. Their letter can be read in full here. In addition to Shaheen and Rounds, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Hassan (D-NH), King (I-ME), Brown (D-OH), Warren (D-MA), Peters (D-MI), Gillibrand (D-NY), Fetterman (D-PA), Durbin (D-IL), Kaine (D-VA), Whitehouse (D-RI), Booker (D-NJ), Warnock (D-GA), Padilla (D-CA), Casey (D-PA), Duckworth (D-IL), Heinrich (D-NM), Kelly (D-AZ), Cantwell (D-WA), Ossoff (D-GA), Stabenow (D-MI), Schatz (D-HI), Hirono (D-HI), Hickenlooper (D-CO), Sanders (I-VT) and Welch (D-VT). Senator Shaheen leads efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to PFAS contamination, respond to the chemical exposure and remediate polluted sites. In the Senate-passed fiscal year (FY) 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Senator Shaheen included numerous PFAS provisions, including $5 million to continue and expand the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) PFAS health impact study that she established four years ago. Senator Shaheen has led efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to PFAS contamination. Because of her efforts, Pease is serving as a model site for the nationwide study. This builds on her work in the FY2023 NDAA signed into law last year, in which Shaheen added an amendment to prohibit the Department of Defense (DOD) from purchasing PFAS-laden firefighting turnout gear after October 1, 2026. This followed Shaheen-led efforts to expand blood testing and treatment for firefighters exposed to PFAS and a similar amendment she secured to ban the use of PFAS-laden firefighting foam in the FY 2020 NDAA. As a lead negotiator of water provisions in the bipartisan infrastructure law, Shaheen secured record-level funding to upgrade drinking water and wastewater infrastructure and address PFAS contamination. In this year’s Committee-passed bill, Shaheen also secured language urging the Department of Defense to utilize safe, on-site PFAS destruction technologies. She also fought to successfully include a number of amendments to the Committee-passed bill focused on increasing transparency related to the Department’s PFAS testing and remediation efforts. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-speaks-on-senate-floor-to-urge-colleagues-to-support-full-national-security-supplemental-for-israel-ukraine-and-indo-pacific-partners,"Shaheen Speaks on Senate Floor to Urge Colleagues to Support Full National Security Supplemental for Israel, Ukraine and Indo-Pacific Partners",2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), chair of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation and a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, today went to the Senate floor to urge her colleagues to support a comprehensive supplemental funding package that recognizes the breadth of our national security interests, which includes Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific. You can watch the Senator’s remarks here. Key quotes: “I join my colleagues in opposition to Senator Marshall’s proposal and in support of a supplemental funding request that recognizes the breadth of our national security interests, which should include both Ukraine, Israel and emerging challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.” “What some of my colleagues overlook in their singular campaign in support of Israel is just how closely the fate of Ukraine and Israel are tied together. And there is one country which links both countries together: that country is Iran. Iran has been complicit in Russia’s actions in Ukraine, exporting weapons and drones which inflict further bloodshed and harm on the Ukrainian people. And Iran is backing Hamas, which is waging war on the State of Israel.” “Our adversaries want the United States to fall short in standing up for our allies. They want us to be divided. We need to show them that we are united.” Remarks as delivered: I join my colleagues in opposition to Senator Marshall’s proposal and in support of a supplemental funding request that recognizes the breadth of our national security interests, which should include both Ukraine, Israel and emerging challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. In Ukraine, as we know, Russia’s brutal campaign of aggression is threatening the country’s freedom and sovereignty. And the horrific events of October 7—one month ago today—have forced Israel to defend itself in response to the worst terrorist attack that they have encountered. Both nations face a similar threat against adversaries that seek to destroy them. Hamas wants to wipe Israel off the map. Putin wants to absorb Ukraine into Russia to recreate the Soviet Union. Now, our allies and partners have already contributed a total of $94 billion to support Ukraine's war and recovery effort. And we – alongside our international partners – recognize that the Ukrainian people are not only defending their land and freedom; they are fighting for the preservation of liberal democracies around the world. What some of my colleagues overlook in their singular campaign in support of Israel is just how closely the fate of Ukraine and Israel are tied together. And there is one country which links both countries together. That country is Iran. Iran has been complicit in Russia’s actions in Ukraine, exporting weapons and drones which inflict further bloodshed and harm on the Ukrainian people. And Iran is backing Hamas, which is waging war on the State of Israel. And what’s especially egregious is the blatant display of their malign partnership. Two weeks ago, Putin hosted Hamas and Iranian leadership and Hamas expressed appreciation for Russia’s criticism of Israeli sanctions. This bill that Senator Marshall is proposing would also cost the federal government $27 billion, almost double what it provides to support Israel. It also strips out essential funding we need to address the pacing threat from China in the Indo-Pacific. It ignores the humanitarian needs for both Ukraine and Israel. But most important, we cannot pick and choose when the United States stands on the side of freedom and democracy. Do we really want to give a green light to Vladimir Putin to continue his revisionist crusade across Europe? Do we really want to give the impression to our allies and adversaries that the United States can’t be depended on as a trusted partner? Do we really want to sow doubt in President Xi’s mind that the United States will stand up for a free and open Indo-Pacific? Our adversaries want the United States to fall short in standing up for our allies. They want us to be divided. We need to show them that we are united. And I'm very pleased that Leader McConnell and Appropriations Vice Chair Collins, and so many of our Republican colleagues, are in full support of a holistic supplemental funding package. It’s important that we fund this holistic response to address both Israel and Ukraine’s needs, which includes humanitarian support for both Israel and Ukraine. Thank you. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/new-hampshire-congressional-delegation-asks-us-air-force-national-guard-to-provide-pease-air-national-guard-base-with-new-fire-and-rescue-vehicles,"New Hampshire Congressional Delegation Asks U.S. Air Force, National Guard to Provide Pease Air National Guard Base with New Fire and Rescue Vehicles",2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) sent a letter, along with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) to Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall and Chief of the National Guard Bureau General Daniel Hokanson regarding the recent temporary halt of operations at Pease Air National Guard Base (ANGB) and Pease International Airport. The halt in operations was due to mechanical breakdowns of the NH Air National Guard’s Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting trucks required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The letter outlines the importance of ensuring Pease has reliable firefighting assets so it can continue to serve and protect the community and ensure military readiness is not impeded. The letter asks for an expedited delivery of a truck currently scheduled to arrive in February 2025 along with the expedited replacement, or recapitalization, of obsolete truck models. The lawmakers wrote, in part, “When Pease is forced to rely on an aging fleet of fire trucks, the safety of airport employees and the [New Hampshire Air National Guard’s] 157th Air Refueling Wing (ARW) is put at risk; and the nation loses strategically vital resources at a time in which we are confronted with numerous global threats.” In early October, Portsmouth International Airport and Pease ANGB were recently forced to halt operations after the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) trucks required to meet minimal service for both FAA and military services became unavailable due to mechanical breakdowns. Several of the 157th ARW trucks have been declared unserviceable for well over two years, forcing Pease to borrow equally dilapidated and aging ARFF trucks, some of which also became unexpectedly unserviceable. Subsequently, 157th ARW was forced to locate, secure, and locally pay for a civilian rental truck to resume safe operations at the airport. The lawmakers continued, “Given the systemic problems of recapitalizing fire trucks at Pease, we respectfully request that you accelerate the delivery of the fire truck scheduled to arrive in February 2025, expedite recapitalization of the obsolete P-34 model truck with a new P-19 truck, and use all available authorities to ensure that Pease has a sufficient number of fire trucks at all times to sustain safe and secure operations.” The letter can be read in full here. As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services and Appropriations Committees, Senator Shaheen has long supported Pease ANGB and the 157th ARW. In August, Shaheen hosted Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall at Pease ANGB and announced the signing of a new Department of Defense (DOD) policy to increase the transparency of PFAS clean-up efforts at the former Pease Air Force Base as well as other sites around the country. In the fiscal year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Shaheen included $2.9 billion for the procurement of 15 KC-46A Pegasus refueling tankers, like the ones flown at Pease ANGB. Earlier this year, the New Hampshire delegation announced $7 million for Portsmouth International Airport at Pease to support a terminal arrivals area expansion project. The federal funds were made available through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) – the bipartisan infrastructure law – that was signed into law in 2021. In the Senate-passed FY24 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill, Shaheen secured $4 million to replace outdated fuel service equipment at Pease ANGB. Weeks before the shutdown at Pease due to the lack of emergency vehicles, Congressman Pappas raised concerns about this issue in a letter to the National Guard Bureau. In that letter, Pappas outlined concerns shared with him by members of the 157 FES and urged officials to address the funding, staffing, and equipment shortages hampering the mission of the 157th Air Refueling Wing Fire and Emergency Services at Pease Air National Guard Base. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-hassan-and-murkowski-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-grow-addiction-care-workforce-through-student-loan-debt-relief-program,Senators Hassan and Murkowski Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Grow Addiction Care Workforce Through Student Loan Debt Relief Program,2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) introduced bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and double the Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery Loan Repayment Program, which provides student loan repayment for health care workers who focus on addiction treatment and recovery in underserved areas. This program, which Senators Hassan and Murkowski helped create, is a key part of helping recruit a strong health care workforce of physicians, nurses, social workers, and mental health workers to combat the opioid epidemic, but authorization for the program expired on September 30. This legislation would reauthorize the program, double its authorization from $25 to $50 million, and also make the loan payments tax exempt, bringing it in line with similar programs like the National Health Service Corps and the Perkins Loan programs. “Responding to the opioid epidemic requires building a robust health care workforce, and this bipartisan legislation will help recruit more doctors, nurses, and social workers to help get Granite Staters struggling with addiction the treatment that they need,” said Senator Hassan. “This program has made a significant impact in our ability to recruit and retain the professionals needed to combat this crisis, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill.” “We see healthcare workforce shortages across the board, especially for substance use disorder treatment specialists,” said Senator Murkowski. “This isn’t just an issue in our rural communities – Alaskans in urban centers are experiencing challenges in accessing care as well, requiring travel out of state for treatment or prolonged time spent in emergency rooms due to the lack of providers. When people in crisis are ready to seek help, services need to be available. This legislation will reduce barriers to training and education, and help bolster our treatment and recovery services in the fight against the opioid epidemic.” The STAR Loan Repayment Reauthorization Act of 2023 would reauthorize and expand a program that was first created through the SUPPORT Act – a landmark investment into substance misuse prevention, treatment, recovery, and law enforcement efforts that Senator Hassan worked to pass into law in 2018. Projections from last year showed that there will be a shortage of 24,060 behavioral health providers by 2030. Senator Hassan has worked on bipartisan efforts to combat the opioid epidemic and continues to work to reauthorize the SUPPORT Act. Recently, Senator Hassan introduced bipartisan legislation to permanently expand coverage for medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorder under Medicaid as well as bipartisan legislation that expands access to short-term inpatient treatment at addiction treatment facilities, both of which could also be part of the SUPPORT Act reauthorization. Since 2017, Senator Hassan has successfully worked to secure a nine-fold increase in funding to New Hampshire to address the substance use disorder epidemic. Senator Hassan successfully passed into law her bipartisan Mainstreaming Addiction Treatment (MAT) Act, to increase the number of medical professionals authorized to prescribe the gold standard of opioid treatment. Senator Hassan also worked with her colleagues to pass into law the bipartisan INTERDICT Act, which has provided critical tools to Customs and Border Protection to help detect and intercept fentanyl and other illegal synthetic opioids. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/new-hampshire-congressional-delegation-asks-us-air-force-national-guard-to-provide-pease-air-national-guard-base-with-new-fire-and-rescue-vehicles,"New Hampshire Congressional Delegation Asks U.S. Air Force, National Guard to Provide Pease Air National Guard Base with New Fire and Rescue Vehicles",2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) sent a letter, along with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) to Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall and Chief of the National Guard Bureau General Daniel Hokanson regarding the recent temporary halt of operations at Pease Air National Guard Base (ANGB) and Pease International Airport. The halt in operations was due to mechanical breakdowns of the NH Air National Guard’s Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting trucks required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The letter outlines the importance of ensuring Pease has reliable firefighting assets so it can continue to serve and protect the community and ensure military readiness is not impeded. The letter asks for an expedited delivery of a truck currently scheduled to arrive in February 2025 along with the expedited replacement, or recapitalization, of obsolete truck models. The lawmakers wrote, in part, “When Pease is forced to rely on an aging fleet of fire trucks, the safety of airport employees and the [New Hampshire Air National Guard’s] 157th Air Refueling Wing (ARW) is put at risk; and the nation loses strategically vital resources at a time in which we are confronted with numerous global threats.” In early October, Portsmouth International Airport and Pease ANGB were recently forced to halt operations after the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) trucks required to meet minimal service for both FAA and military services became unavailable due to mechanical breakdowns. Several of the 157th ARW trucks have been declared unserviceable for well over two years, forcing Pease to borrow equally dilapidated and aging ARFF trucks, some of which also became unexpectedly unserviceable. Subsequently, 157th ARW was forced to locate, secure, and locally pay for a civilian rental truck to resume safe operations at the airport. The lawmakers continued, “Given the systemic problems of recapitalizing fire trucks at Pease, we respectfully request that you accelerate the delivery of the fire truck scheduled to arrive in February 2025, expedite recapitalization of the obsolete P-34 model truck with a new P-19 truck, and use all available authorities to ensure that Pease has a sufficient number of fire trucks at all times to sustain safe and secure operations.” The letter can be read in full here. As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services and Appropriations Committees, Senator Shaheen has long supported Pease ANGB and the 157th ARW. In August, Shaheen hosted Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall at Pease ANGB and announced the signing of a new Department of Defense (DOD) policy to increase the transparency of PFAS clean-up efforts at the former Pease Air Force Base as well as other sites around the country. In the fiscal year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Shaheen included $2.9 billion for the procurement of 15 KC-46A Pegasus refueling tankers, like the ones flown at Pease ANGB. Earlier this year, the New Hampshire delegation announced $7 million for Portsmouth International Airport at Pease to support a terminal arrivals area expansion project. The federal funds were made available through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) – the bipartisan infrastructure law – that was signed into law in 2021. In the Senate-passed FY24 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill, Shaheen secured $4 million to replace outdated fuel service equipment at Pease ANGB. Weeks before the shutdown at Pease due to the lack of emergency vehicles, Congressman Pappas raised concerns about this issue in a letter to the National Guard Bureau. In that letter, Pappas outlined concerns shared with him by members of the 157 FES and urged officials to address the funding, staffing, and equipment shortages hampering the mission of the 157th Air Refueling Wing Fire and Emergency Services at Pease Air National Guard Base. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-discusses-situation-in-israel-additional-support-for-ukraine-legislative-priorities-and-more-on-wmurs-closeup,"Shaheen Discusses Situation in Israel, Additional Support for Ukraine, Legislative Priorities and More on WMUR’s CloseUp",2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"Watch the discussion in full here. (Washington, DC) – On Sunday, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) joined Adam Sexton on WMUR’s CloseUp, to discuss current events, like the developing situation in Israel and Gaza and the war in Ukraine, as well as Shaheen’s legislative priorities, including lowering the cost of insulin and continuing to support common-sense gun safety efforts. Key quotes from Senator Shaheen below: Israel's response to Hamas’ attack and situation in Gaza: “Hamas really unleashed a brutal and barbarous attack that killed 1,400 Israelis on October the seventh. This is a response to what the Hamas has done. And very sadly, the Palestinians who occupied Gaza are being used as pawns in this war. […] Continued support of Ukraine: “It is in America's interest to support Ukraine in the fight against Vladimir Putin, who is a vicious dictator. In Ukraine, he's killing civilians indiscriminately, he's undermining their infrastructure and make no mistake: Our allies throughout Eastern Europe, NATO allies, the Baltic states who are our NATO allies, they are very worried about what happens if we don't stop Putin in Ukraine.” Importance of passing gun safety legislation following the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine: “Last year, we did pass the first gun safety legislation in 30 years, which addresses mental health. There's significant funding available to help address mental health issues, put into background checks, particularly for younger citizens to prevent them from getting hands on guns when they're not of age. But clearly there are still huge holes in the system, as we saw the shooting in Maine, where people did seem to identify the shooter as a problem that still didn't address getting him the help he needed to prevent those awful killings.” “But to do nothing, and to continue to do nothing when we've had over 500 mass shootings this year, alone—and it's not even the end of the year—It's just not acceptable.” Cutting the cost of Insulin: “We kept out of pocket expenses for people on Medicare at $35 a month last year [with the Inflation Reduction Act], but Senator Collins and I have legislation that would do that for more Americans.” “What we saw from the American Diabetes Association's report that came out last week is that the cost of insulin has tripled in the last 10 years. And we have 37 million people who have diabetes in this country; we’ve got to do something to address those costs.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-urges-air-force-to-award-honorary-posthumous-promotion-to-lieutenant-colonel-sean-michael-judge-of-new-hampshire,Senator Hassan Urges Air Force to Award Honorary Posthumous Promotion to Lieutenant Colonel Sean Michael Judge of New Hampshire,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan is urging the Air Force to award an honorary, posthumous promotion to Lieutenant Colonel Sean Michael Judge of Kingston, New Hampshire. “Sean had an exemplary career as an airman and a scholar. Recognizing his service and commitment to the Air Force by posthumously awarding him an honorary promotion to Colonel would be in keeping with the traditions of the Air Force and the intent of the law,” wrote Senator Hassan. Lieutenant Colonel Sean Judge’s mother, Mary Conant, shared with Senator Hassan that Lt. Col. Judge was being considered for promotion before he passed away, and she asked Senator Hassan to request a posthumous promotion in honor of her son, under 10 U.S.C. 1563, which allows Members of Congress to request promotions like these. “I’d like to thank Senator Maggie Hassan for assisting me in looking into having my son, LTC Sean M. Judge, posthumously promoted to Colonel,” said Mary Conant. “I believe the last few years of his life he was not assigned to a squadron due to the fact that he was chosen by his superiors to attend the U. S. Air Force War College to obtain two master’s degrees and a doctorate. During this time, he was assigned to AFIT rather than attached to a squadron. His next assignment would have been to Germany as a military advisor to a four-star general. He was very much looking forward to this assignment when he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. Besides his parents, he is also survived by his wife and three children.” Lieutenant Colonel Sean M. Judge, Ph.D. began his military career at the United States Air Force Academy in 1989, after receiving a nomination from the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation. After graduating, Lt. Col. Judge earned his pilot wings and flew C-130s, earning his status as a Command Pilot upon accumulating more than 3,000 flight hours. He served in the Bosnian conflict as well as Operation Enduring Freedom, among multiple other domestic and international deployments, and obtained master’s degrees at the Air Command and Staff College and Ohio State University. In 2011, Lt. Col. Judge was diagnosed with a very rare form of cancer and passed away the next year, having served almost 20 years in the Air Force, before he could be promoted to the next rank. To read Senator Hassan’s letter to the Secretary of the Air Force, click here or read below: Dear Secretary Kendall: I write to you today to request that, under the provisions of 10 U.S. Code 1563, you award an honorary promotion to Colonel for Lieutenant Colonel Sean Michael Judge, who passed away in 2012 from a rare form of cancer before he could be promoted to the next rank. Sean had an exemplary career as an airman and a scholar. Recognizing his service and commitment to the Air Force by posthumously awarding him an honorary promotion to Colonel would be in keeping with the traditions of the Air Force and the intent of the law. Lieutenant Colonel Sean M. Judge, Ph.D. began his military career at the United States Air Force Academy in the summer of 1989, after receiving a nomination from the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation. Sean knew that he wanted to attend the Air Force Academy at the age of six, hoping to become a pilot and study military history. After graduating in 1993, Sean earned his pilot wings in 1994 and flew C-130s, earning his status as a Command Pilot upon accumulating more than 3,000 flight hours. He served in the Bosnian conflict as well as Operation Enduring Freedom, among multiple other domestic and international deployments. Sean also was an instructor pilot on the T-34 aircraft in a joint venture with the U.S. Navy. In 2006, Sean was selected to attend the Air Command and Staff College, where he obtained a master’s degree in military history and received the Dean’s Research Award for his thesis, Slovakia, The Forgotten Uprising. He was then chosen to continue on with another master’s degree, this time in Air Power Art & Science, where he again received an award for his thesis. In 2008, Sean was afforded the opportunity to obtain his Ph.D. in military history at The Ohio State University, which he completed in three years, finishing with a dissertation examining the role of strategic initiative in turning the tide for Allied forces in the Pacific theater of World War II. In 2011, Sean was diagnosed with a very rare form of cancer shortly before he and his family were scheduled to move to Germany, where he had been selected to serve as a military advisor to a four-star general. Unfortunately, Sean lost his battle with cancer and passed away on July 14, 2012, having served almost 20 years in the Air Force. He was laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery and is survived by his parents Mary Conant and Daniel Judge, his wife Carmen, and their three children, Ryan, Seth, and Amelia, along with many other relatives and friends. During his military career, Sean received numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Air Medal, the Aerial Achievement Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with valor and two oak leaf clusters. In light of Sean’s exemplary service record, I ask you to consider awarding Sean an honorary promotion to the rank of Colonel. I make this request pursuant to the provisions in Title 10, U.S. Code, Section 1563, which states that “[u]pon request of a Member of Congress, the Secretary concerned shall review a proposal for the honorary promotion (whether or not posthumous) of a former member or retired member of the armed forces that is not otherwise authorized by law.” I therefore ask you to review Lieutenant Colonel Sean Judge’s record of honorable and dedicated military service, in consideration of a posthumous promotion to Colonel. To assist you in this review, I am enclosing Sean’s Record of Performance, which his mother shared with my office. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-hassan-shaheen-stand-up-to-big-oils-anti-competitive-proposed-mergers,"Senators Hassan, Shaheen Stand Up to Big Oil’s Anti-Competitive Proposed Mergers",2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Margaret Wood Hassan,H001076,www.hassan.senate.gov,hassan,https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan and Jeanne Shaheen joined Senate colleagues in urging the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to closely evaluate two massive, newly announced proposed mergers by the top-two biggest oil companies in the United States, Exxon and Chevron. ExxonMobil’s proposed $60 billion acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources and Chevron’s proposed $53 billion acquisition of Hess Corporation are two of the largest petroleum deals in American history and two of the biggest petroleum deals of the 21st century. These proposed acquisitions could be disastrous for Americans consumers – greatly reducing competition and driving up gas prices at the pump. The Senators wrote, “Exxon’s and Chevron’s operations downstream would enable them to redirect Pioneer’s and Hess’s crude supply to themselves, away from (and possibly to the detriment of) their midstream competitors. These new market dynamics could result in price hikes for midstream customers, and such added costs are often passed downstream to retail customers, including drivers at gas stations.” “In our view, the FTC should not have approved the ExxonMobil merger in 1999, which created the largest corporate successor of Standard Oil’s original illegal monopoly, or the merger between Chevron and Texaco in 2001,” the Senators said. “Lax enforcement during that period resulted in market manipulation, unstable supply, and price hikes for Americans. We must avoid similar mistakes going forward. It is incumbent upon the FTC to closely review the Exxon-Pioneer and Chevron-Hess acquisitions and take appropriate action should such reviews uncover any possible anticompetitive effects enabled by the acquisitions.” Full text of the letter is below and available here. *** Dear Chair Khan: We write regarding our concerns about two blockbuster oil-and-gas deals announced in October: ExxonMobil’s (Exxon) proposed $60 billion acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources (Pioneer) and Chevron’s proposed $53 billion acquisition of Hess Corporation (Hess) – two of the largest oil-and-gas deals of the 21st century. By allowing Exxon and Chevron to further integrate their extensive operations into important oil-and-gas fields, these deals are likely to harm competition, risking increased consumer prices and reduced output throughout the United States. At the regional level, the deals threaten to harm small operators and suppress wages. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) must carefully consider all of the possible anticompetitive harms that these acquisitions present. Should the FTC determine that these mergers would violate antitrust law, we urge you to oppose them. This Industry Is Already Too Concentrated, and Americans Are Already Paying the Price. In the 1990s, over 2,600 mergers occurred throughout all segments of the U.S. petroleum industry. Between 1990 and 2001, the number of major U.S. energy companies plunged by more than half, dropping from 19 to 9, due to merger activity. Most notably, Exxon merged with Mobil in 1999; Chevron merged with Texaco in 2001 (after Chevron had already acquired Gulf Oil and Texaco had already bought Getty Oil in the 1980s). Such consolidation enabled better industry coordination, and the remaining firms were well aware that they were members of an oligopoly with a “small number of companies involved, all of whom share[d] a motivation to recoup costs and not undermine the market.” For example, according to internal Mobil and BP documents, the majors understood that “[f]looding the market and depressing margins on the base volume” they marketed was unprofitable. Likewise, they knew that directing their individual supplies into, or away from, particular regions of the country enabled them to achieve “price uplift scenarios” and to “leverage up” prices. The Government Accountability Office found that five specific mergers from that time period – Marathon-Ashland, Shell-Texaco I (Equilon), BP-Amoco, MAP-UDS, and Exxon-Mobil – led to wholesale gasoline price increases ranging from 0.39 to 5.00 cents per gallon. Of those five, the price increase due to the Exxon-Mobil merger was the greatest. After these huge mergers took place, the majors’ upstream operations were skewed to the detriment of consumers. Studies at the time demonstrated that spending on drilling for new oil supplies by the merged giants fell significantly compared to the drilling budgets before their mergers. Strangely enough, the majors cut back on upstream production at a time when crude prices were sky high and exploration costs had fallen by more than half, “one of the biggest potential disconnects between supply and demand in the 150-year history of the oil business.” These anticompetitive tactics resulted in a fragile supply for the nation where isolated mishaps at refineries or broken pipelines caused enormous price spikes for consumers (as took place in 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2005) – all of which financially benefited the oligopolists, providing them no incentive to stabilize national supply. Consolidation in midstream operations hurt Americans consumers, as well. In 1993, the largest five oil refiners had a collective share of about one-third of the American market, and the largest ten controlled 55.6 percent. By 2005, due to the wave of mergers, the top five controlled 55 percent of the market, and the largest ten had 81.4 percent. This increase in concentration enabled the largest players to manipulate the industry by withholding supply in order to drive up prices, and since most of the firms were also vertically integrated, they benefited from higher prices at the retail level, as well. Similar market dynamics exist today. The oil-and-gas industry is still dominated by a handful of corporate giants, led by the top-two players Exxon and Chevron. Any further consolidation could harm American consumers. This is especially true given the inelastic demand for gas products; those who drive to work rarely have substitutes for gas, so as prices rise, people do not purchase less gas. In April 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic began, retail gasoline prices averaged $1.84. Prices steadily rose for two years, hitting a historic height of $4.93 in June 2022, and remain relatively high today at $3.84. Meanwhile, Exxon and Chevron posted their own historic heights in 2022: $56 billion in profits for Exxon and $36.5 billion for Chevron. They were not alone; Big Oil corporations collectively earned an industry high of nearly $200 billion last year. President Biden rightfully called for the FTC to investigate the oil industry for price gouging since such surges cannot be explained away by increased production costs from the pandemic or inflation, especially in light of these firms’ astronomical profits. The Deals Could Harm Competition and Lead to Even Higher Prices for Americans. Exxon is the largest oil-and-gas corporation in the United States, operating up and down the supply chain and across the entire industry. Its acquisition target, Pioneer, is an upstream petroleum operator drilling in Texas’s Permian Basin. Pioneer owns more drilling acreage than any other producer in the Permian where Exxon is also a top producer. A merged Exxon-Pioneer could produce a staggering 1.2 million barrels per day – more than twice the amount of the next competitor. Accordingly, this deal would enable the new Exxon to dominate the Permian – the most prolific oil-and-gas field in the world and America’s most important. Chevron is America’s 2nd largest oil-and-gas firm with integrated operations rivaling Exxon’s. Hess is one of the largest producers in North Dakota’s Bakken Shale, the deepwater Gulf of Mexico, and offshore Guyana. Supporters of the deals have argued that the global market for oil and gas is so enormous that dominant firms in the relevant basins would not have enough supply to restrict capacity or raise prices in any meaningful way. Focusing only on the global market is improper. Even if these energy firms represent a small fraction of the global petroleum market, the question before the FTC is whether these proposed transactions are likely to harm American consumers. Thus, the FTC must consider how Exxon’s or Chevron’s vertically integrated operations may harm American competition in spite of the global market. For example, Exxon owns extensive midstream operations in the Permian Basin, meaning Exxon controls storage, refining, and transportation for a significant amount of capacity in the region where it will acquire Pioneer’s drilling operations. Exxon has an extensive pipeline system that transfers crude supply from the Permian to the Texas Gulf Coast. Recently, Exxon expanded its refinery operations on the Texas Gulf Coast by an additional capacity of 250,000 barrels per day and announced plans to ramp up its exporting operations on the Texas Gulf Coast, suggesting that Exxon-Pioneer intends to move significantly more oil and gas out of the United States than the two companies exported separately. Exxon’s CEO Darren Woods put it more bluntly in 2020: “These projects are export machines, generating products that high-growth nations need to support larger populations with higher standards of living. Those overseas markets are the motivation behind our investments. The supply is here; the demand is there. We want to keep connecting those dots.” This export strategy – in the nation’s most important oil-and-gas field, no less – could reduce the amount of their capacity ultimately available to American consumers and thereby increase prices throughout the energy supply chain, including at the gas pump. Furthermore, as we described above, the major energy firms already have a history of artificially reducing supply and increasing prices following rounds of consolidation. If this “consolidation trend in the US” continues accelerating, competing exploration-and-production companies will find it increasingly difficult to operate without Exxon’s and Chevron’s networks, which creates new abilities and incentives for Exxon and Chevron to engage in anticompetitive tactics. Exxon’s and Chevron’s operations downstream would enable them to redirect Pioneer’s and Hess’s crude supply to themselves, away from (and possibly to the detriment of) their midstream competitors. These new market dynamics could result in price hikes for midstream customers, and such added costs are often passed downstream to retail customers, including drivers at gas stations. We also urge you to investigate how an Exxon-Pioneer merger might impact local operators in the Permian as well as oilfield employees such as geologists and engineers. Potential anticompetitive harms at any level of the supply chain and in any market merit consideration by the FTC. The FTC Must Protect Americans from Big Oil. These deals also demonstrate how corporate consolidation can frustrate self-governing democracy. At a time when Americans overwhelmingly support governmental efforts to clean up the environment and protect our nation from climate disasters, Exxon and Chevron are doubling down on fossil-fuel production. The proposed transactions would augment these corporations’ outsized political power, further enabling them to spend millions on lobbyists against climate legislation, litigation to slash environmental rules, and misinformation disputing scientific facts about climate change. Under President Biden, the FTC has been willing to stand up to Big Oil. Just last year, the FTC required an energy private-equity fund to divest its entire crude-oil business in Utah before allowing a similar transaction to close, expressing concerns that the deal would lead to higher prices for refiners and consumers at the pump. The fight against Big Oil is not new. When the Justice Department took on Standard Oil in the early twentieth century, the Supreme Court protected competition by breaking up Standard Oil into 43 different firms. Eventually, the global industry reorganized into seven dominant global players, including five prominent American companies – three of which (Standard Oil of California, Gulf Oil, and Texaco) combined into today’s Chevron, and two of which were Standard Oil of New Jersey (now known as Exxon) and Standard Oil of New York (now known as Mobil). In our view, the FTC should not have approved the ExxonMobil merger in 1999, which created the largest corporate successor of Standard Oil’s original illegal monopoly, or the merger between Chevron and Texaco in 2001. Lax enforcement during that period resulted in market manipulation, unstable supply, and price hikes for Americans. We must avoid similar mistakes going forward. It is incumbent upon the FTC to closely review the Exxon-Pioneer and Chevron-Hess acquisitions and take appropriate action should such reviews uncover any possible anticompetitive effects enabled by the acquisitions. If anything, the FTC should be investigating the past anticompetitive mergers of Big Oil conglomerates like ExxonMobil and Chevron to determine whether these energy giants should be broken up once again. We appreciate your attention to these serious matters. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/11/07/2023/senator-shaheen-presents-military-medals-to-vietnam-war-veteran-george-andosca,Senator Shaheen Presents Military Medals to Vietnam War Veteran George Andosca,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"Shaheen with the Andosca family at the military medal presentation ceremony. (Nashua, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, presented military medals to Vietnam War veteran Specialist 5 (SP5) George Andosca. Through his dedicated service, SP5 Andosca earned the Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, Valorous Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with “60” Device and Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm Device. Shaheen and her staff worked closely with the Andosca family to ensure he received the recognition he deserves. “I was honored to take part in today’s ceremony recognizing the service of Specialist 5 (SP5) George Andosca, who served in the Vietnam War as an aviation mechanic in the 219th Aviation Company,” said Senator Shaheen. “It’s a privilege for me to play a role in securing this much-deserved and long-overdue recognition of Mr. Andosca’s service in Vietnam. Thank you to George, Mary-Louise, the entire Andosca family and everyone else involved in this effort.” Shaheen and the Andosca family were joined at the ceremony by Jim Donchess, Mayor of Nashua, and Colonel Erik Fessenden, Director of Joint Staff for the New Hampshire National Guard. George Andosca was born in Winthrop, MA. George attended East Coast Aero Tech in Bedford, MA, and received a certificate in aircraft maintenance. In 1963, George joined the U.S. Army. He attended aircraft maintenance school at Fort Rucker in Alabama and air traffic controller (ATC) school at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi. He subsequently received orders to go to Pleiku Air Base in Vietnam. There, George worked as an aircraft mechanic, maintaining two aircrafts and flew on 25 missions as an observer. For that, he received the U.S. Army Air Medal. He was discharged from the Army as a Specialist 5. SP5 Andosca then married Mary-Louise Brennan, and together they raised two children. He was hired by the FAA as an ATC and worked at the Boston Center in Nashua, NH for 30 years until his retirement. Senator Shaheen has worked across the aisle to honor and pay tribute to fallen American heroes and veterans. Senator Shaheen worked with a bipartisan group of Senators to introduce the Access for Veterans to Records Act to help more veterans access their service records. In addition, Shaheen has spearheaded efforts in the Senate in support of veterans’ and military families’ health. Shaheen worked to include provisions and helped pass the historic PACT Act, which expands health care services for post-9/11 combat veterans. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/11/07/2023/shaheen-lauds-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-bill-to-fight-rape-kit-backlog,Shaheen Lauds Senate Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Fight Rape Kit Backlog,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) lauded Senate passage of bipartisan legislation she helped introduce to reauthorize the Debbie Smith Act, legislation that would provide state and local law enforcement agencies with resources to complete forensic analyses of crime scenes and untested rape kits. The legislation was introduced in February by U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), the late Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). “The ongoing backlog of testing DNA evidence is unacceptable—it delays crimes from being solved and robs survivors of the justice they deserve,” said Shaheen. “This bipartisan legislation would help law enforcement process the evidence they need to bring justice for survivors of sexual violence. I’m pleased it passed the Senate this week and urge my House colleagues to quickly take it up so we can renew this important law.” The Debbie Smith Act was originally signed into law in 2004 to provide local and state crime laboratories resources to end the backlog of untested DNA evidence from unsolved crimes, analyze DNA samples and increase the capacity to process DNA in order to guard against future backlogs. Since it became law, more than 860,000 DNA cases have been processed. In addition to crime scene evidence, Debbie Smith funds are also utilized to process offender DNA samples to ensure evidence from unsolved crimes can be matched against a database of known offenders, similar to criminal fingerprint databases. In the fiscal year (FY) 2023 federal government legislation, Shaheen secured $130 million for grants under the Debbie Smith DNA Backlog Reduction program, which was $18 million more than the Department of Justice requested. In the FY 2024 Commerce-Justice-Science Appropriations bill reported out of committee, this program is again provided $130 million even though the DOJ again asked for $112 million. The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Kennedy (R-LA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Chris Coons (D-DE), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and the late Dianne Feinstein (D-CA). This legislation is endorsed by Debbie Smith, the Fraternal Order of Police, Major Cities Chiefs, Major County Sheriffs of America, National District Attorneys Association, Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations, Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), and Joyful Heart Foundation. As Chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), Shaheen has worked for years to spearhead efforts to protect survivors and help them seek justice. Shaheen’s bipartisan legislation with U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) – the Survivors’ Bill of Rights in the States Act – was signed into law as part of the fiscal year (FY) 2023 national defense authorization legislation. The FY 2023 federal government funding legislation provided $10 million to launch the program under OVW. For the sixth year in a row, Shaheen successfully secured the highest funding level ever for the DOJ-administered VAWA grants programs, totaling $700 million for the OVW. This amount is a 22 percent increase from last year’s funding level and will support training officials, rape prevention programs, processing rape kits, domestic violence hotlines, women’s shelters and transitional housing support services. Last year, Senator Shaheen’s bipartisan POWER 2.0 Act with Senator Sullivan (R-AK) to reauthorize legislation that expands pro bono legal resources for victims and survivors was signed into law. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/11/07/2023/shaheen-statement-on-the-unanimous-authorization-of-the-eufor-althea-mandate,Shaheen Statement on the Unanimous Authorization of the EUFOR Althea Mandate,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), chair of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation and a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement following the United Nations Security Council’s unanimous authorization of the EUFOR Althea mandate, a peacekeeping mission which has contributed to the security and stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina. “I welcome the unanimous authorization of the EUFOR Althea mandate in Bosnia and Herzegovina by the United Nations Security Council. Recently, some political actors in the country have engaged in corrupt and anti-democratic behavior that often violates the Bosnian constitution and threatens to engulf the country and region in a serious conflict reminiscent of the violence that occurred in the 1990s. As a peace stabilization force, EUFOR Althea plays a critical role in supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European future and keeping those bad actors in check. We support the EU’s efforts to ensure a safe and secure environment on Bosnia and Herzegovina. Last month, Senator Shaheen led a congressional delegation with Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) to the Western Balkans to engage with partners amid continued Russian interference and to convey support for their Euro-Atlantic aspirations. Last year, Senator Shaheen led bipartisan legislation in the U.S. Senate to strengthen U.S.-Balkan ties with Senator Wicker (R-MS). In the fall of 2022, Shaheen led a bipartisan letter with Senators Tillis (R-NC), Murphy (D-CT) and Wicker to the Biden administration on the importance of the EUFOR mandate and urged the development of a comprehensive strategy towards Bosnia and Herzegovina. Shaheen traveled to the Western Balkans to serve as an election monitor for the Bosnia and Herzegovina elections, which followed a separate trip to the region with both Senators Murphy and Tillis. Shaheen shared her experience as an election monitor on ‘Balkans Debrief’ with Ilva Tare. In 2015, Senators Shaheen and Wicker traveled to Srebrenica to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the genocide. Shaheen has condemned democratic backsliding in Bosnia and Herzegovina and has worked to Bolster their Euro-Atlantic Aspirations. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/senator-shaheen-presents-military-medals-to-vietnam-war-veteran-george-andosca,Senator Shaheen Presents Military Medals to Vietnam War Veteran George Andosca,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"Shaheen with the Andosca family at the military medal presentation ceremony. (Nashua, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, presented military medals to Vietnam War veteran Specialist 5 (SP5) George Andosca. Through his dedicated service, SP5 Andosca earned the Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, Valorous Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with “60” Device and Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm Device. Shaheen and her staff worked closely with the Andosca family to ensure he received the recognition he deserves. “I was honored to take part in today’s ceremony recognizing the service of Specialist 5 (SP5) George Andosca, who served in the Vietnam War as an aviation mechanic in the 219th Aviation Company,” said Senator Shaheen. “It’s a privilege for me to play a role in securing this much-deserved and long-overdue recognition of Mr. Andosca’s service in Vietnam. Thank you to George, Mary-Louise, the entire Andosca family and everyone else involved in this effort.” Shaheen and the Andosca family were joined at the ceremony by Jim Donchess, Mayor of Nashua, and Colonel Erik Fessenden, Director of Joint Staff for the New Hampshire National Guard. George Andosca was born in Winthrop, MA. George attended East Coast Aero Tech in Bedford, MA, and received a certificate in aircraft maintenance. In 1963, George joined the U.S. Army. He attended aircraft maintenance school at Fort Rucker in Alabama and air traffic controller (ATC) school at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi. He subsequently received orders to go to Pleiku Air Base in Vietnam. There, George worked as an aircraft mechanic, maintaining two aircrafts and flew on 25 missions as an observer. For that, he received the U.S. Army Air Medal. He was discharged from the Army as a Specialist 5. SP5 Andosca then married Mary-Louise Brennan, and together they raised two children. He was hired by the FAA as an ATC and worked at the Boston Center in Nashua, NH for 30 years until his retirement. Senator Shaheen has worked across the aisle to honor and pay tribute to fallen American heroes and veterans. Senator Shaheen worked with a bipartisan group of Senators to introduce the Access for Veterans to Records Act to help more veterans access their service records. In addition, Shaheen has spearheaded efforts in the Senate in support of veterans’ and military families’ health. Shaheen worked to include provisions and helped pass the historic PACT Act, which expands health care services for post-9/11 combat veterans. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-lauds-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-bill-to-fight-rape-kit-backlog,Shaheen Lauds Senate Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Fight Rape Kit Backlog,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NH,Jeanne Shaheen,S001181,www.shaheen.senate.gov,shaheen,https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press,scraper,"(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) lauded Senate passage of bipartisan legislation she helped introduce to reauthorize the Debbie Smith Act, legislation that would provide state and local law enforcement agencies with resources to complete forensic analyses of crime scenes and untested rape kits. The legislation was introduced in February by U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), the late Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). “The ongoing backlog of testing DNA evidence is unacceptable—it delays crimes from being solved and robs survivors of the justice they deserve,” said Shaheen. “This bipartisan legislation would help law enforcement process the evidence they need to bring justice for survivors of sexual violence. I’m pleased it passed the Senate this week and urge my House colleagues to quickly take it up so we can renew this important law.” The Debbie Smith Act was originally signed into law in 2004 to provide local and state crime laboratories resources to end the backlog of untested DNA evidence from unsolved crimes, analyze DNA samples and increase the capacity to process DNA in order to guard against future backlogs. Since it became law, more than 860,000 DNA cases have been processed. In addition to crime scene evidence, Debbie Smith funds are also utilized to process offender DNA samples to ensure evidence from unsolved crimes can be matched against a database of known offenders, similar to criminal fingerprint databases. In the fiscal year (FY) 2023 federal government legislation, Shaheen secured $130 million for grants under the Debbie Smith DNA Backlog Reduction program, which was $18 million more than the Department of Justice requested. In the FY 2024 Commerce-Justice-Science Appropriations bill reported out of committee, this program is again provided $130 million even though the DOJ again asked for $112 million. The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Kennedy (R-LA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Chris Coons (D-DE), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and the late Dianne Feinstein (D-CA). This legislation is endorsed by Debbie Smith, the Fraternal Order of Police, Major Cities Chiefs, Major County Sheriffs of America, National District Attorneys Association, Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations, Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), and Joyful Heart Foundation. As Chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), Shaheen has worked for years to spearhead efforts to protect survivors and help them seek justice. Shaheen’s bipartisan legislation with U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) – the Survivors’ Bill of Rights in the States Act – was signed into law as part of the fiscal year (FY) 2023 national defense authorization legislation. The FY 2023 federal government funding legislation provided $10 million to launch the program under OVW. For the sixth year in a row, Shaheen successfully secured the highest funding level ever for the DOJ-administered VAWA grants programs, totaling $700 million for the OVW. This amount is a 22 percent increase from last year’s funding level and will support training officials, rape prevention programs, processing rape kits, domestic violence hotlines, women’s shelters and transitional housing support services. Last year, Senator Shaheen’s bipartisan POWER 2.0 Act with Senator Sullivan (R-AK) to reauthorize legislation that expands pro bono legal resources for victims and survivors was signed into law. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z