url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
http://lobiondo.house.gov/event/martin-luther-king-day-federal-offices-closed,Martin Luther King Day - Federal Offices Closed,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Frank LoBiondo,L000554,lobiondo.house.gov,,,legacy,"Martin Luther King Day - Federal Offices Closed
Start:
January 18, 2016
End:
January 18, 2016
Dec 30, 2015",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lobiondo.house.gov/event/presidents-day-federal-offices-closed-0,President's Day - Federal Offices Closed,2015-12-30,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Frank LoBiondo,L000554,lobiondo.house.gov,,,legacy,"President's Day - Federal Offices Closed
Start:
February 15, 2016
End:
February 15, 2016
Dec 30, 2015",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-secures-over-600000-6th-district-constituents-year,"Pallone Secures Over $600,000 for 6th District Constituents this Year",2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"LONG BRANCH, NJ Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that he helped secure $636,002 in 2015 for constituents seeking assistance through his district office. His work on behalf of constituents includes help with Veterans Affairs claims, tax return issues with the Internal Revenue Service, Sandyrelated FEMA grants and claims, SBA loans, Social Security payments, and more. Over the past year, Congressman Pallones constituent outreach representatives have made it possible for constituents to cut through red tape in order to receive money that is rightfully owed to them.
I want all of my constituents know that were here to help, said Congressman Pallone. I am grateful so many residents of the 6th District turned to us for assistance this year. Whether my constituents need assistance navigating the federal bureaucracy or are concerned about a federal policy, I encourage them to stay in touch and hope that they continue to use my office as a resource.
The funds secured by Congressman Pallone and his staff are part of a long list of constituent services that his district offices offer. For example, constituents who have issues with their Social Security benefits, federal pensions, Medicare eligibility, and U.S. citizenship are eligible for help. Additionally, Pallone and his staff frequently assist veterans obtain back pay, GI Bill benefits, VA disability claims, as well as assistance to widows who are eligible to receive pensions. Staff can also be helpful in locating low-income housing options, energy assistance and other benefits or resources that may be helpful to residents of the 6th District.
For help on any of these services or other issues, constituents should not hesitate to contact either of Congressman Pallones district offices:
New Brunswick Office -67/69 Church Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, Phone: (732) 249-8892
Long Branch Office -504 Broadway, Long Branch, NJ 07740, Phone: (732) 571-1140",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://frelinghuysen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=2&itemid=1144,Frelinghuysen marks the Centennial of the National Park Service,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Rodney Frelinghuysen,F000372,frelinghuysen.house.gov,,,legacy,"On August 25, 2016, the National Park Service will turn 100 years old! In addition to some of the local sites mentioned below, the National Park Foundation and the National Park Service initiated the Find Your Park movement to encourage people to enjoy and support America's national parks. For more information, visit here:http://findyourpark.com/. New Jersey's 11th Congressional District: Morristown National Historical Park New Jerseys 11thdistrict is fortunate to be the home of our nations oldest and most historic National Park, Morristown National Historical Park. Working with the Park Service and the Washington Association, Congressman Frelinghuysen has been leading the effort to secure dollars for the Park and to help renovate the museum. For more information on Morristown National Historical Park, please visit:http://www.nps.gov/morr/index.htm. Thomas Edison National Historical Park Located in West Orange, Thomas Edison National Historical Park includes Edisons former home and laboratory. The museum collection at the Park, the largest single body of Edison-related material, is estimated to number over 300,000 items, while the archives contain approximately five million documents. For more information, visit their webpage:http://www.nps.gov/edis/index.htm. The Crossroads of the American Revolution Two hundred and thirty years ago New Jersey was at the crossroads of America's Revolutionary War. Today, there are nearly 300 sites in New Jersey with direct ties to the American Revolution. Among the landmarks areWashingtons Headquarters inMorristown, Jockey Hollow, the Old Trenton Barracks,the Dey Mansion inWayne,the Princeton, Monmouth, and Red Bank battlefields, andthe Great Falls of the Passaic. Congressman Frelinghuysen introduced H.R. 87, legislation to recognize the critical role our state played in the American Revolution. This legislation was included in the National Heritage Areas Act of 2005, which was signed into law on October 12, 2006. The Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area Act will raise the profile of New Jersey's historical importance. For more information regarding the Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area, please visitwww.revolutionarynj.org/.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/mourning-loss-valued-member-local-law-enforcement,Mourning the Loss of a Valued Member of Local Law Enforcement,2015-12-29,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"Cherry Hill, NJ-Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today mourns the loss of Camden County Police Department K9 officer Zero, a decorated service dog that died last night at age 12.
Zero was a distinguished member of South Jersey law enforcement. He faithfully served and protected the people of Camden County for years. He was also a wonderful ambassador for the Police Department & the City of Camden and he will be missed, said Rep. Norcross.Congressman Norcross expressed his condolences to Zeros partner, Camden County Police Lt. Zsakhiem James and the officers family in a telephone call this afternoon.
I know how painful it is to lose a dog. But Zero represents so much more than just a pet. He was a trusted member of Lt. James' family and his long-time partner on the job. I know the loss of Zero will be felt for a long time to come, added Rep. Norcross.
Zero, a German Shepherd, was Camdens oldest police dog, joining the police force in 2007 to become highly skilled in bomb detection. Sgt. James and Zero were honored in 2014 by then New Jersey State Senator Donald Norcross for setting a New Jersey record for the most suspect apprehensions by a K9 officer.
Congressman Donald Norcross is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Budget Committee, and serves as Assistant Whip in the 114th Congress.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-decries-noaa%E2%80%99s-restrictive-summer-flounder-quota,Pallone Decries NOAAs Restrictive Summer Flounder Quota,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) decried the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations (NOAA) final rule on 2016 summer flounder catch limits released today. Under the rule, the summer flounder acceptable catch limit is being reduced by 30 percent, from 23 million pounds to 16 million pounds.
I am most disappointed in the restrictive rule for our commercial and recreational fishermen in New Jersey. They depend on a sufficient summer flounder quota and without one, New Jerseys economy faces a threat as it continues to rebound from Superstorm Sandy, said Congressman Pallone. I am fully committed to working with my New Jersey colleagues and pressing NOAA for more favorable catch limits in the future.
Earlier this year, Pallone submitted a letter to the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC), which reviews the quota process prior to NOAA. In his letter, which was signed by Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Cory Booker (D-NJ), Pallone requested less restrictive quota limits for summer flounder stock. The letter is available HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/president-signs-pallone%E2%80%99s-bill-ban-microbeads-cosmetics,President Signs Pallones Bill to Ban Microbeads in Cosmetics,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, announced that President Obama today signed into law Pallones Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015. The legislation will prohibit the manufacture and sale of personal care products that contain plastic microbeads. These small bits of plastic, used as exfoliants in personal care products, like face wash and toothpaste, can slip through water treatment systems after they are washed down the drain. As a result, these microbeads often end up in local streams, rivers and larger bodies of water. The law will ban themanufacturing of personal care products containing plastic microbeads effective July 1, 2017. Pallone introduced the bill earlier this year with Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI-06).
The Presidents signature on this legislation is a major victory for U.S. waterways and the environment, said Congressman Pallone. Without the ban, an estimated eight trillion plastic microbeads pollute U.S. waterways each day, threatening the environment and ultimately our health. My bill is a commonsense, bipartisan solution to this little-known but serious problem.
Scientists have found evidence of microbeads in numerous bodies of water in the United States, including increasingly in the Great Lakes, the worlds largest source of freshwater. In addition to contributing to the buildup of plastic pollution in waterways, microbeads can be mistaken by fish and other organisms as food. If consumed by fish, the chemicals found in synthetic plastic microbeads can then be passed on to other wildlife and humans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pascrell-south-korea-japan-deal-marks-progress,Rep. Pascrell: South Korea-Japan Deal Marks Progress,2015-12-28,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bill Pascrell,P000096,pascrell.house.gov,,,legacy,"PATERSON, N.J. Today, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09) issued a statement on the historic accord reached between South Korea and Japan regarding so-called 'comfort women' who were held in sexual slavery by Japans Imperial Army during World War II.
""I want to applaud the governments of both South Korea and Japan for completing this historic joint announcement, a giant step forward for relations between two key allies across the Pacific,"" Rep. Pascrell said. ""While not an end to the suffering that these women endured, with the formal apology from Japan, the historical truth of this atrocity can no longer be denied or forgotten. That is at the heart of the progress made today.""
Pascrell represents the Borough of Palisades Park, which is home to the first monument dedicated to the comfort women in the United States. He is also a former member of the Congressional Human Rights Caucus and has been critical of Japan's recognition of the issue over the years.
Pascrell proudly cosponsored the comfort women resolution, H. Res. 121, which called for the Japanese government to acknowledge and apologize for their Imperial militarys coercion of young women into sexual slavery during the 1930s and 1940s. This resolution was passed by voice vote on July 30, 2007.
Pascrell was also one of only a few members of Congress that spoke at a reception in Washington hosted by Japanese American Rep. Mike Honda (D-CA-17) and Korean American Civic Empowerment (KACE) commemorating the fifth anniversary of H.R. 121.
Last June, Pascrell and 17 colleagues sent a bipartisan letter to the Ambassador of Japan to the United States calling the timing and contents of a Japanese government report on the Kono Statement about the sexual enslavement of over 200,000 women by the Japanese Army during World War II regrettable and unfortunate. The Kono Statement, issued by the Japanese government in 1993, acknowledged the Japanese Armys sexual enslavement of women, but did not offer a formal apology. The 2014 report investigated the circumstances of the crafting of that statement.
""I will continue my work with my colleagues in Congress to strengthen our relationships with South Korea and Japan and to work for the cause of human rights around the world,"" Pascrell said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lance.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lance-christmas-greeting,Lance Christmas Greeting,2015-12-24,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Leonard Lance,L000567,lance.house.gov,,,legacy,"FLEMINGTON, N.J. --- Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-07) today released the following Christmas greeting:
May the birth of the Savior remind all peoples of the true meaning of Christmas:Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. May God be with our men and women in the military, especially those who are in distant lands, this holiday season.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398636,"Asbury Park Press article'WWII veteran finally receives his medals'",2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"BY DAN RADEL, ASBURY PARK PRESS STAFF WRITER At 90 years old, Alfred Caponigro has received many gifts -- but this year, his familygavehim one of the greatest presentsthey could his long-lostservice medals.
The World War IIveteran is battling cancerbut no one couldtell that from the joy on his face when he wassurrounded in hishome by his family members Tuesday night -- and his long-delayed gift.
""I think there's27 grandchildren and 25 great-great children, or it's the other way,"" jokedhis daughter Elena Mazza, about their very large Italian-American family.
The medals arrived byspecial delivery fromRep.Chris Smith (R-N.J.) who came bearingtheeight medals and ribbons thatCaponigro earned but never collected for hisservice to the country.
""It is witha sincere gesture of gratitude that I give you these. You earned them. You are the greatest generation,"" Smith said, sitting next toCaponigro in hisliving room, the two gentlemen clasped in a handshake.
For a short moment the veteran was teary eyed.
Caponigro was born in Montclair on June 21,1925,a first-generation Italian-American. His parents came to the United States fromLacedonia, Italy when they were teenagers.
When he was 17 he joined the U.S. Navy with the help of his parent's signature because he was too young to enlist without their consent.
""I thought it was the right thing to do,"" he said.
He was a part of the D-Day invasion,what Smith called the ""decisive battle ofWorld War II."" He lost his hearing during the battle and suffered another injury to his hand went he got hit byshrapnel. For the rest of his life he wore hearing aids.
""The sky was blacked out from the planes,"" Caponigro recalled of the D-Day.
It did not stop him from raising seven children or making a career at DuMont Laboratories, before taking a job at Fort Monmouth for the U.S. Department of Defense.
""My grandmother who passed away a couple of years ago started the exercise of trying to retrieve medals and accommodations he might have earned as a result of his service,"" said his grandson Robert Williams. ""My grandfather didn't ask for any of this. If you ask him what his legacy is, itwould be his children,his grand-children and his great grandchildren.""
One of the medals Caponigro received was the French Legion of Honor,the highest honor France bestows on non-French citizens Smith said.
Caponigro was also awarded the World War II Victory Medal, the American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Honorable Service Ribbon, Navy Honorable Discharge Label, and the N.J. Distinguished Service Medal.
Even Caponigro's great grandchildren understood the importance of the medals he finally received.
""Poppy is a good man. He helps others. During the war there was a big bomb and he lost his hearing.One time he was at our school because it was Veteran's Day,"" offered his 7-year old great granddaughter Marissa Williams. This article originally ran on Dec. 23, 2015 on Page one of the Asbury Park Press., and can be could online at:
http://www.app.com/story/news/local/eatontown-asbury-park/2015/12/22/wwii-vet-receives-medals-death-bed-chris-smith/77749008/",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398637,"***Ocean Twp. vet, 90, never received medals after the war***Monmouth Co. World War II Vet Presented Medals for Service",2015-12-23,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04) presented long-overdue medals to Alfred Caponigro of Ocean Township, Monmouth County, on Dec. 22, nearly 73 years to the day after the veteran enlisted in the U.S. Navy.
Mr. Caponigro enlisted Dec. 28, 1942, and fought in the Battle of Normandy on D-Day and the days afterward off Utah Beach on the coastal patrol vessel PC 1176, the sister ship of which was sunk during the battle. During his service, he became deaf and was discharged with a 100 percent disability rating by the Navy. In front of many of the veterans seven children, 25 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren and other friends and family at the veterans home, Smith presented Mr. Caponigro with:
World War II Victory Medal
American Campaign Medal
European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal
Combat Action Ribbon
Honorable Service Lapel
Navy Honorable Discharge Lapel
NJ State Distinguished Service Medal
Smith also presented him with the French Legion of Honor, the highest honor France bestows on non-French citizens. Smith asked the French Consulate in New York to expedite the medal. Smith sent a letter to the National Archives National Person Records Center requesting the medals be issued. The Navy approved the medals and Smith received the medals in November.
It is witha sincere gesture of gratitude that I give you these, said Smith, who was the chairman of the Veterans Committee in the House of Representatives for four years. You earned them. You are the greatest generation.
A humble man, Mr. Caponigro said he would not accept medals after the war because of all of the other Americans who didnt make it back, or who lost limbs and other injuries. His family, in particular his grandson Bob Williams, encouraged him to seek the medals for the familys history, and he contacted Smiths office in September for assistance.
Smith has written 13 bills that have been enacted into law to assist veterans.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-kicks-final-phase-beach-replenishment-project,Pallone Kicks Off Final Phase of Beach Replenishment Project,2015-12-22,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"DEAL, NJ Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-6) kicked off the start of the final phase of a federally funded beach replenishment project from Sea Bright to Manasquan. He was joined at the press conference by Col. David Caldwell, Commander of the New York District of the Army Corps of Engineers. This final phase will cover the area stretching from Lake Takanassee in Elberon to Philips Avenue in Deal. The $86,722,210 in funding for this project is part of the Sandy aid package that Congressman Pallone fought for in Congress.
The completion of this project will not only replenish, protect and maintain our beaches, it will be an encouraging marker of our ongoing efforts to rebuild our coastline stronger and more resilient than before Sandy hit, said Congressman Pallone. We waged a hard fight in Congress for Sandy relief funding, and I am glad that significant and well-deserved funds have come home to help our beaches a fundamental part of life for residents and the tourist economy.
The project will cover the placement of 3 million cubic yards of sand for reconstruction of the shoreline. It also includes lengthening 10 existing stormwater outfalls, and notching a groin at Phillips Avenue.
Earlier this year, the first phase of the replenishment project from Philips Avenue in Deal to Loch Arbour began and is now being completed. Originally, the Army Corps had planned to notch six groins, also known as jetties, between Elberon and Loch Arbour. However, after meeting with Congressman Pallone and concerned citizens, including fishermen, surfers and recreational users in the area, the Army Corps agreed to only notch three groins within the project area. In addition to the groin that will be notched at Phillips Avenue, two groins, one at Deal Casino and the other at Marine Place, were notched as a part of the southern Deal to Loch Arbour contract.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-menendez-booker-deliver-holiday-gift-nj-transit-riders-tax-breaks-money-back,"Payne, Menendez, Booker Deliver Holiday Gift for NJ Transit Riders: Tax Breaks, Money Back in Their Pockets",2015-12-22,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"MONTCLAIR, NJ Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) joined U.S. Senator Bob Menendez and U.S. Senator Cory Booker at New Jersey Transits (NJT) Walnut Station in Montclair to urge transit commuters to take advantage of new federal tax benefits to help pay the cost of rising bus and train fares.
The federal spending and tax package, approved by Congress and signed into law last week, included a provision co-authored by Sen. Menendez that increases the maximum monthly commuter tax benefit for transit riders, and brings it permanently in line with the benefit enjoyed by those who drive to work. Beginning Jan. 1, those who rely on public transportation can set aside up to $255 per month in pre-tax earnings to pay their commuting expenses, amounting to an estimated annual savings of over $1,000 for transit riders who recently were forced to absorb a 9% NJT fare hike.
Mass transit is a lifeline for so many people in my district who depend on it every single day to go about their lives, said Rep. Payne, Jr. So expanding and making permanent the transit tax break is a huge victory for commuters in our state. They deserve, and can now rightfully benefit from, the same tax break as people who drive. By making transit and parking benefits equal, we will not only encourage more commuters to take public transportation, we will no longer penalize people for choosing mass transit over driving.
Transit parity is real, substantive tax relief for middle and working class Americans. It is real money back in the pockets of cash-strapped transit riders, said Sen. Menendez, the ranking member of the Senate Banking mass transit subcommittee and a member of the Senate Finance Committee that handles federal tax policy. Incentivizing mass transit is the right thing to do, especially in such a densely populated state like New Jersey. It gets people out of their cars and off our roads. It reduces traffic congestion and air pollution, and it improves the overall quality of life for residents.
As transit users are forced to bear the brunt of fare hikes, this transit tax credit could put more than $1000 back in commuters pockets annually while finally providing some much-needed parity with those who drive to work, said Sen. Booker, the top-ranking Democrat on the Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, which has jurisdiction over passenger rail in the U.S. While this bill is far from perfect, I am pleased to see it include provisions that save New Jersey commuters hard-earned dollars while increasing investments in our regions crumbling infrastructure. Continued robust funding like this for the New Starts program bodes well for critical infrastructure projects like Gateway that will provide much-needed relief for commuters and help boost our economy.
With the monthly maximum transit benefit increased to $255 in 2016, it will cover 100% of a $210 monthly rail pass between Montclair and New York Penn Station, and similarly will cover 100% of a $254 monthly pass from Metropark to Princeton. Had parity not been restored, these percentages would have been 62% and 51% respectively. It will also cover 100% of a $181 monthly bus pass between Glassboro and Philadelphia, compared to just 72% without parity.
Until now, commuters who drive to work have traditionally received disproportionately greater tax relief than their counterparts who take public transportation. This year, motorists were able to set aside up to $250 monthly in pre-tax earnings to cover their commuting expenses, compared to just $130 a month for bus, train and ferry riders.
Annual Tax Savings for a Worker Making $50,000
Without Commuter Benefits
With Commuter Benefits
Salary
$50,000
$50,000
Commuting Costs
$3,060
$3,060
Taxable Income
$50,000
$46,940
Federal Taxes Paid(25% bracket)
$12,500
$11,735
Payroll tax
$3,825
$3,591
Take Home Pay
$33,675
$34,674
Savings
$0
$999
Sen. Menendez has co-sponsored the Commuter Benefits Equity Act in the last four Congresses to permanently correct the disparity between the transit and parking tax benefit, and successfully introduced it with Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) as a provision of the final federal spending and tax package.
We thank our tri-state federal delegation for pushing to create permanent parity to the commuter tax benefit for transit riders. Providing the same tax benefit to transit riders that drivers receive with a parking benefit is balanced and progressive fiscal policy. It also provides another monetary incentive to use buses, subways and rails. This makes sense for our environment and economy, said Veronica Vanterpool, executive director Tri-State Transportation Campaign.
The federal lawmakers also touted several other provisions contained in the so-called omnibus legislation to improve New Jerseys and the nations transportation infrastructure:
New Starts Transit Program Provides $2.2 billion, a $57 million increase over current funding levels to fund the design and construction of new transit lines, or extensions of existing lines. NJT could apply for this funding in the coming months to fund the planned Hudson-Bergen Light Rail West Side extension in Jersey City, and its a program that could be a significant source of funding for the Gateway Hudson River rail tunnel project once it receives design and environmental clearances.
Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Grants Provides $500 million for TIGER grants, which go to our nation's infrastructure projects that make communities more livable and sustainable. The U.S. Dept. of Transportation (USDOT) this year awarded $16 million towards constructing the 105-year-old Portal Bridge replacement.
Airport Improvement GrantsProvides $3.35 billion for the Airport Improvement Grant program, which distributes grants to airports across the state, such as Newark, Teterboro Airport, and Atlantic City International Airport, for critically-needed infrastructure projects to enhance capacity and reduce congestion, as well as to improve safety and reduce aircraft noise and emissions. These airport projects also support thousands of contractor jobs in the state.
Amtrak Provides $1.39 billion for Amtrak, which is chosen by 78 percent of passengers traveling between New York and Washington, D.C. over air travel.
FAST Act Fully funds highway and transit programs at levels provided for in the recent transportation billincluding $600 million next year in guaranteed transit funding for New Jersey, and $1 billion in guaranteed highway funding.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=350,"Booker, Bipartisan Coalition of Senators Hail Senate Passage of Historic Chemical Safety Law",2015-12-22,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Cory Booker,B001288,www.booker.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 22, 2015
WASHINGTON Today, Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined a bipartisan coalition of senators, led by U.S. Sens. Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and David Vitter (R-La.), to celebrate the Senate's historic passage of the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act, a chemical safety reform bill to overhaul the nation's broken Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 (TSCA). The bill passed the Senate last night by a unanimous voice vote and now has 61 bipartisan cosponsors.
The 39-year-old TSCA is the last of the major environmental laws passed in the 1960s and '70s that has not yet been modernized. The bill must now be reconciled with the U.S. House of Representatives-passed legislation on the same issue.
Passage of the bill was thanks to hard work from many senators. At a news conference this morning, Udall and Vitter thanked several partners who have worked hard to make the bill stronger and more bipartisan: Environment and Public Works Committee Chairman James Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Sens. Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).
Booker said: Frank Lautenberg would be proud of the Senates unanimous vote to approve the bill that bears his name, which brings us a step closer to the end of a long journey he started to strengthen the laws that help keep Americans safe from toxic chemicals. These changes are already decades overdue. The Senate and House need to now work together to quickly get this bill to the Presidents desk to be signed into law.
Udall said: ""After years of negotiations, collaboration and working with stakeholders across the country, we have made tremendous progress toward historic, bipartisan environmental reform. I want to thank Senator Vitter and our partners in the Senate who rolled up their sleeves and worked to make this day possible: Chairman Inhofe and Senator Carper; Senators Booker, Merkley and Whitehouse; and Senators Durbin and Markey; and Senator Coons. Everyone put partisanship aside in order to address the substance and make this bill better. As many as 1,500 new chemicals come on the market each year, but there is no cop on the beat making sure they're safe for consumers or our environment. This bill will require the EPA to test all of them, make sure theyre safe and put the focus where it ought to be on how these chemicals affect the most vulnerable in New Mexico and across the country. TSCA has been broken from the beginning. Thirty-nine years is too long to go without strong protections for Americans' health and safety. I look forward to working with members of the House on a final product that the president will sign so we can finally protect our children from dangerous chemicals.""
Vitter said: Senator Tom Udall and I, along with our Democrat and Republican colleagues and countless stakeholders, have spent years at the negotiating table to arrive at the best possible compromise to reform our nations outdated chemical legislation and allow our industries to remain innovative leaders. Our work is not yet done, however. Im eager to continue the legislative process with our House colleagues early next year so that we can sign chemical safety reform into law.
The bill is available HERE and a detailed summary is available HERE.
The bill is named after the late Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.), who worked for many years to reform the broken and outdated TSCA. It overhauls the law by requiring for the first time that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) review new and existing chemicals and regulate them based on the impact they would have on those individuals most at risk: infants, pregnant women, the elderly and chemical industry workers. The bill ensures chemical companies can no longer hide information on their products from public view, and it requires chemical companies to contribute significantly to the cost of regulation and ensure the EPA has the funds to do its job.
In the 39 years since TSCA was enacted, the EPA has been able to restrict just five chemicals, and it has prevented only four chemicals from going to market out of the more than 23,000 new chemicals manufactured since 1976.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-leads-bicameral-letter-urging-sec-action-on-corporate-political-spending-disclosure,Menendez Leads Bicameral Letter Urging SEC Action on Corporate Political Spending Disclosure,2015-12-22,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez Leads Bicameral Letter Urging SEC Action on Corporate Political Spending Disclosure
Menendez Leads Bicameral Letter Urging SEC Action on Corporate Political Spending Disclosure
Lawmakers: Provision in Omnibus Should Not Prevent Action
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ), a senior member on the Senate Banking Committee, today led a bicameral letter signed by 95 members of Congress to U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Mary Jo White urging swift action be taken to require publicly-held companies disclose their political spending to shareholders. In light of House Republicans inclusion of an anti-transparency provision to protect unregulated corporate political contributions in the must-pass omnibus funding package, the letter outlines current SEC authority and stresses the urgency to move forward on requiring full disclosure of political spending by publicly traded corporations.
The case for disclosure is clear and convincingpurely as a matter of corporate governance and investor protection, wrote the Members of Congress. We believe the SEC retains the authority to take important steps to prepare for a rulemaking on this issue As such, we expect the SEC to move forward with such plans.
In addition to Sen. Menendez, the letter is signed by Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Christopher Murphy (D-Conn.), Christopher Coons (D-Del.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.) Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.). The letter in the House of Representatives was led by Representatives Michael Capuano (Mass.-7), Chris Van Hollen (Md.-8) and signed by Representatives Adam Schiff (Calif.-28), Adam Smith (Wash.-9), Al Green (Texas-9), Alan Grayson (Fla.-9), Alan Lowenthal (Calif.-47), Alcee L. Hastings (Fla.-20), Ami Bera, M.D. (Calif.-7), Ann McLane Kuster (N.H.-2), Anna Eshoo (Calif.-18), Bill Keating (Mass.-9), Cedric Richmond (La.-2), Charles Rangel (N.Y.-13), Dan Kildee (Mich.-5), David Price (N.C.-4), Derek Kilmer (Wash.-6), Don Beyer (Va.-8), Donald M. Payne, Jr. (N.J.-10), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D.C.), Elijah E. Cummings (Md.-7), Elizabeth Esty (Conn.-5), Frank Pallone (N.J.-6), Gerald E. Connolly (Va.-11), Joe Crowley (NY-14) Gregory W. Meeks (N.Y.-5) , Gwen Moore (Wisc.-4), Hank Johnson (Ga.-4), James P. McGovern (Mass.-2), Jan Schakowsky (Ill.-9), Jerrold Nadler (N.Y.-10), Jerry McNerney (Calif.-9), John B. Larson (Conn.-1), John Lewis (Ga.-5), John Sarbanes (Md.-3), Juan Vargas (Calif.-51), Judy Chu, PhD (Calif.-32), Julia Brownley (Calif.-26), Katherine Clark (Mass.-5), Kathy Castor (Fla.-14), Keith Ellison (Minn.-4), Lois Capps (Calif.-24), Lucille Roybal-Allard (Calif.-40), Marcy Kaptur (Ohio-9), Mark DeSaulnier (Calif.-11), Mark Pocan (Wisc.-2), Michelle Lujan Grisham (N.M.-1), Niki Tsongas (Mass.-3), Norma Torres (Calif.-35), Patrick E. Murphy (Fla.-18), Peter DeFazio (Ore.-4), Peter Welch (Vt.-AL), Raul M. Grijalva (Ariz.-3), Rick Larsen (Wash.-2), Rick Nolan (Minn.-8), Robert A. Brady (Pa.-1), Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn.-3), Scott Peters (Calif.-52), Stephen Lynch (Mass.-8), Steve Cohen (Tenn.-9), Tammy Duckworth (Ill.-8), Ted W. Lieu (Calif.-33), Tim Ryan (Ohio-13), Tulsi Gabbard (Hawaii-2), Xavier Becerra (Calif.-34) and Yvette D. Clarke (N.Y.-9). Menendez is a steadfast champion for corporate political spending disclosure. He is the lead sponsor of the Shareholder Protection Act that would require public companies to disclose their political campaign spending to their shareholders and seek approval from a majority of shareholders before spending money from the companys general treasury on political activities. This August, Menendez was part of a group of 44 U.S. Senators pressing the SEC to complete their rulemaking and, in October, urged the newly-named nominees for the SEC to support corporate political spending disclosure. Full text of the letter follows and can be downloaded here.
The Honorable Mary Jo White Chair United States Securities and Exchange Commission 100 F Street, NE Washington, DC 20549 Dear Chair White: As you know, the President signed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016 into law on December 18, 2015. Section 707 of Division E, Title VII of the law prohibits the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from utilizing fiscal year 2016 funds to finalize, issue, or implement a rule, regulation, or order regarding corporate political spending disclosures. However, we believe the SEC retains the authority to take important steps to prepare for a rulemaking on this issue. Specifically, this provision does not bar the SEC from discussing, planning, investigating, or developing plans or possible proposals for a rule or regulation relating to the disclosure of political contributions. As such, we expect the SEC to move forward with such plans including, but not limited to, a public roundtable, and other actions to prepare a rule on the disclosure of political contributions. Per that expectation, we will periodically ask for updates on this issue. We believe that disclosure of corporate political spending has immense value for investors and should be a top priority for the Commission. The ability of corporate executives to spend company resources for political purposes without shareholders knowledge raises significant investor protection and corporate governance concerns. Without transparency or disclosure, executives are free to spend funds invested by shareholders without accountability or monitoring. The Supreme Courts 2010 Citizens United v. FEC decision fundamentally changed our nations campaign finance laws, ruling that corporations should be treated as persons under the First Amendment and thus enabling corporate executives to make unlimited expenditures from company treasuries to influence election campaigns. Even before Citizens United, shareholders of many companies sought greater transparency into how executives were using corporate resources for political purposes. Since Citizens United, investor demand has greatlyand justifiablyintensified, as the magnitude of the problem and the potential for abuse has skyrocketed. Some companies have agreed to voluntarily disclose their political spending, illustrating its feasibility, but many others continue to conceal their political spending from their shareholders and the public. Shareholders of these companies should not be kept in the dark, and their rights must be protected. To date, more than 1.2 million securities experts, institutional and individual investors, and members of the public have pressed the SEC for a rule requiring public companies to disclose their political spending. Furthermore, in May of this year, two former SEC Chairs urged the Commission to take action, noting that a rule on corporate political spending disclosures fits squarely within the primary mission of the SEC, which is the protection of investors. The case for disclosure is clear and convincingpurely as a matter of corporate governance and investor protection. This information is material to how shareholders decide where to invest their money and how to vote in corporate elections. Unfortunately, the SEC has thus far failed to act to promote transparency in the amount of shareholder money public companies are spending to influence elections and government policy. Until the SEC moves forward with this rulemaking, investors will continue to be left in the dark with no way of knowing whether executives are spending funds on political causes or campaigns that may be directly adverse to shareholders interests. We expect the SEC to weigh seriously the importance of this issue and use its resources, within the confines of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016, to prepare for a rulemaking requiring public companies to disclose their political spending to shareholders. We appreciate your attention to this matter. Sincerely,
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398635,"Smiths Stem Cell Bill Now LawMeasure will provide $265 million over five years for cord blood, bone marrow transplant programs",2015-12-21,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Chris Smiths Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act (H.R. 2820) is now law, and authorizes $265 million for cord blood and stem cell research and treatment over the next five years.
Smith and lead co-sponsor Rep. Doris Matsui shepherded the bill through the House last summer. It passed the Senate and House earlier this month and was signed into law by the President over the weekend.
As adopted by both houses of Congress, H.R. 2820 now ensures that the two collaborative programs that support treatment and therapies derived from adult stem cell lines will continue to receive funding through 2020. Under the legislation, the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program will be authorized for five years at $30 million annually, while the National Cord Blood Inventory (NCBI) is authorized at $23 million annually for a five-year period.Smith authored the original law (The Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act of 2005P.L. 109-129) that created the national cord blood program and expanded the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program.
It is incredibly timely to reauthorize this life-giving program during this gift-giving time of year, Smith said. Americans willing to give the gift of life to others are at the heart of the success of this program. In reauthorizing it we are grateful for the adult donors willing to provide bone marrow or peripheral blood stem cells, as well as mothers who donate their childs cord blood through public cord blood banks.
First passed in 2005, the original legislation established a nationwide integrated bone marrow and cord blood stem cell transplantation program. Stem cells derived from cord blood and bone marrow have been used successfully to treat tens of thousands of patients with such diseases as leukemia, sickle cell anemia and genetic disorders. The enactment of H.R. 2820 will continue to build these donor networks, thus enabling more people to have access to these lifesaving treatments.
It remains one of the best kept secrets in America that umbilical cord blood stem cells and adult stem cells in general are curing people of a myriad of terrible conditions and diseases in adults as well as children. Cord blood, what was once seen as medical waste, is now making miracles, Smith said.
There are 13 public banks contracted through NCBI, including the New Jersey Cord Blood Bank which collects cord blood from five participating hospitals. The New Jersey Cord Blood Bank, part of Community Blood Services in Montvale, has approximately 7,000 cord blood units in storage and has shipped 300 units to transplant centers for treatment.
The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) estimates that every year about 12,600 people depend on the programs made available by this law to find an unrelated adult marrow donor or cord blood unit for treatment.
Today, Americans have access to more than 12 million adult volunteer donors and 209,000 cord blood units through the national registry, known as Be The Match. Transplants involving these adult stem cells are often the only hope for patients battling fatal blood cancers and other bone marrow disorders and conditions. Since the inception of the registry, the Program has successfully facilitated 68,000 transplants.
Importantly, during consideration in the Senate HELP Committee, language was added to direct the relevant agencies to study the state of science using adult stem cells and birthing tissues to develop new therapies for patients. Smith said Last year I visited Celgene Corporation of Summit, New Jersey to learn of its extraordinary efforts to use cord blood to heal diabetic foot ulcers and how their researchers have turned amniotic membranean old placentainto wound management that has now advanced past stage three clinical trials to the approval and regulatory filings stage.
Breathtaking scientific breakthroughs have turned medical wastepost birth placentas and umbilical cord bloodinto medical miracles treating more than 70 diseases including leukemia, lymphoma and sickle cell anemia, said Smith. Not only has God in His wisdom and goodness created a placenta and umbilical cord to nurture and protect the precious life of an unborn child, but now we know that another gift awaits us immediately after birth. Something very special is left behindcord blood that is teeming with lifesaving stem cells.
The measure had the support of Reps. David Jolly (R-FL) and Chaka Fattah (D-PA), and in the Senate the bill was championed by Senators Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Richard Burr (R-NC) and Al Franken (D-MN), making helpful modifications and sending it back to the House for one final vote of approval Dec. 16.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/zadroga-911-health-act-passes-pallone-rallies-first-responders-and-speaks-nj-patients,"Zadroga 9/11 Health Act Passes, Pallone Rallies with First Responders and Speaks with NJ Patients",2015-12-21,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"PISCATAWAY, NJ Following a long-sought victory for 9/11 first responders passage of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06)held a press conference with first responders and spoke with patients at the World Trade Center Health Program clinic at Rutgers. The Zadroga Act was permanently reauthorized as part of the omnibus spending bill, which passedon Friday.As an original co-sponsor of the bill and as the lead Democrat on the committee of jurisdiction, Pallone has been integral in advancing the bill and was responsible for negotiating the final language for permanent reauthorization within the omnibus spending bill.The reauthorization will ensure responders and survivors of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center continue to receive the monitoring and care they need.
There is nowhere more important or relevant to be than World Trade Center Health Program in Piscataway to commemorate and highlight the passage of the Zadroga 9/11 Health Act,said Congressman Pallone. I thank and congratulate our 9/11 first responders for their years of tireless work, which has culminated in victory. I am proud to have waged this fight with them. With our first responders at Ground Zero, in the halls of Congress and in the shadow of the Capitol we let the world know that when heroes answer the call for help when we need them most, our country must have their back.
The World Trade Center Health Program at Rutgers Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI) in Piscataway is treating over 4,800 responders or survivors. It would have expired in 2016 if Congress did not reauthorize the program.
Pallone was joined by first responders and Dr. Iris Udasin, Medical Director, EOHSI Clinical Center.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-payne-deliver-holiday-gift-for-nj-transit-riders-tax-breaks-money-back-in-their-pockets_-,"Menendez, Booker, Payne Deliver Holiday Gift for NJ Transit Riders: Tax Breaks, Money Back in Their Pockets",2015-12-21,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez, Booker, Payne Deliver Holiday Gift for NJ Transit Riders: Tax Breaks, Money Back in Their Pockets
Menendez, Booker, Payne Deliver Holiday Gift for NJ Transit Riders: Tax Breaks, Money Back in Their Pockets
Monday, December 21, 2015
MONTCLAIR, NJ U.S. Senator Bob Menendez today joined U.S. Senator Cory Booker and Congressman Donald Payne, Jr. (NJ-10), at New Jersey Transits (NJT) Walnut Station in Montclair to urge transit commuters to take advantage of new federal tax benefits to help pay the cost of rising bus and train fares.
The federal spending and tax package, approved by Congress and signed into law last week, included a provision co-authored by Sen. Menendez that increases the maximum monthly commuter tax benefit for transit riders, and brings it permanently in line with the benefit enjoyed by those who drive to work. Beginning Jan. 1, those who rely on public transportation can set aside up to $255 per month in pre-tax earnings to pay their commuting expenses, amounting to an estimated annual savings of over $1,000 for transit riders who recently were forced to absorb a 9% NJT fare hike.
Transit parity is real, substantive tax relief for middle and working class Americans. It is real money back in the pockets of cash-strapped transit riders, said Sen. Menendez, the ranking member of the Senate Banking mass transit subcommittee and a member of the Senate Finance Committee that handles federal tax policy. Incentivizing mass transit is the right thing to do, especially in such a densely populated state like New Jersey. It gets people out of their cars and off our roads. It reduces traffic congestion and air pollution, and it improves the overall quality of life for residents.
As transit users are forced to bear the brunt of fare hikes, this transit tax credit could put more than $1000 back in commuters pockets annually while finally providing some much-needed parity with those who drive to work, said Sen. Booker, the top-ranking Democrat on the Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, which has jurisdiction over passenger rail in the U.S. While this bill is far from perfect, I am pleased to see it include provisions that save New Jersey commuters hard-earned dollars while increasing investments in our regions crumbling infrastructure. Continued robust funding like this for the New Starts program bodes well for critical infrastructure projects like Gateway that will provide much-needed relief for commuters and help boost our economy.
Mass transit is a lifeline for so many people in my district who depend on it every single day to go about their lives, said Rep. Payne, Jr. So expanding and making permanent the transit tax break is a huge victory for commuters in our state. They deserve, and can now rightfully benefit from, the same tax break as people who drive. By making transit and parking benefits equal, we will not only encourage more commuters to take public transportation, we will no longer penalize people for choosing mass transit over driving.
With the monthly maximum transit benefit increased to $255 in 2016, it will cover 100% of a $210 monthly rail pass between Montclair and New York Penn Station, and similarly will cover 100% of a $254 monthly pass from Metropark to Princeton. Had parity not been restored, these percentages would have been 62% and 51% respectively. It will also cover 100% of a $181 monthly bus pass between Glassboro and Philadelphia, compared to just 72% without parity.
Until now, commuters who drive to work have traditionally received disproportionately greater tax relief than their counterparts who take public transportation. This year, motorists were able to set aside up to $250 monthly in pre-tax earnings to cover their commuting expenses, compared to just $130 a month for bus, train and ferry riders.
Annual Tax Savings for a Worker Making $50,000
Without Commuter Benefits
With Commuter Benefits
Salary
$50,000
$50,000
Commuting Costs
$3,060
$3,060
Taxable Income
$50,000
$46,940
Federal Taxes Paid (25% bracket)
$12,500
$11,735
Payroll tax
$3,825
$3,591
Take Home Pay
$33,675
$34,674
Savings
$0
$999
Sen. Menendez has co-sponsored the Commuter Benefits Equity Act in the last four Congresses to permanently correct the disparity between the transit and parking tax benefit, and successfully introduced it with Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) as a provision of the final federal spending and tax package.
We thank our tri-state federal delegation for pushing to create permanent parity to the commuter tax benefit for transit riders. Providing the same tax benefit to transit riders that drivers receive with a parking benefit is balanced and progressive fiscal policy. It also provides another monetary incentive to use buses, subways and rails. This makes sense for our environment and economy, said Veronica Vanterpool, executive director Tri-State Transportation Campaign.
The federal lawmakers also touted several other provisions contained in the so-called omnibus legislation to improve New Jerseys and the nations transportation infrastructure:
New Starts Transit Program Provides $2.2 billion, a $57 million increase over current funding levels to fund the design and construction of new transit lines, or extensions of existing lines. NJT could apply for this funding in the coming months to fund the planned Hudson-Bergen Light Rail West Side extension in Jersey City, and its a program that could be a significant source of funding for the Gateway Hudson River rail tunnel project once it receives design and environmental clearances.
Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Grants Provides $500 million for TIGER grants, which go to our nation's infrastructure projects that make communities more livable and sustainable. The U.S. Dept. of Transportation (USDOT) this year awarded $16 million towards constructing the 105-year-old Portal Bridge replacement.
Airport Improvement Grants Provides $3.35 billion for the Airport Improvement Grant program, which distributes grants to airports across the state, such as Newark, Teterboro Airport, and Atlantic City International Airport, for critically-needed infrastructure projects to enhance capacity and reduce congestion, as well as to improve safety and reduce aircraft noise and emissions. These airport projects also support thousands of contractor jobs in the state.
Amtrak Provides $1.39 billion for Amtrak, which is chosen by 78 percent of passengers traveling between New York and Washington, D.C. over air travel.
FAST Act Fully funds highway and transit programs at levels provided for in the recent transportation billincluding $600 million next year in guaranteed transit funding for New Jersey, and $1 billion in guaranteed highway funding.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-lets-use-momentum-to-strengthen-the-endangered-species-act,Menendez: Let’s Use Momentum to Strengthen the Endangered Species Act,2015-12-21,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez: Lets Use Momentum to Strengthen the Endangered Species Act
Menendez: Lets Use Momentum to Strengthen the Endangered Species Act
Administration Announcement Follows Request From Senators, Finalizes US Fish and Wildlife Rule
Monday, December 21, 2015
NEWARK, NJ U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) today applauded the Obama Administrations action to place lions in Africa and India under the protection of the Endangered Species Act, a measure that Menendez and colleagues called for in August. Menendez also urged Congress to take this first step and expand upon it by passing the Conserving Ecosystems by Ceasing the Importation of Large (CECIL) Animal Trophies Act to curb the sport killing of species that are proposed to be listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
Menendez CECIL Animal Trophies Act is named after an African lion who was allegedly lured outside of Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe in July, shot with an arrow, and tracked for 40 hours while injured before being shot.
The Administration rightfully took a step to help these majestic animals avoid extinction and prevent cruel and inhumane maiming, and I encourage Congress to take the next step to protect other potentially endangered species, said Sen. Menendez. Cecils death was a preventable tragedy that highlighted the need to extend and strengthen the protections of the Endangered Species Act. Lets send a clear message to the international community that the United States is committed to protecting the most vulnerable species in our own country and around the world.
The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) proposed listing the African Lion as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in October 2014, and Sen. Menendez, along with Sens. Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Edward Markey (D-Mass.) wrote U.S. Secretary of Interior Sally Jewell to expedite the review and completion of a rule to help protect the African lion in August.
Menendez CECIL Animal Trophies Act is co-sponsored by Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Barbara Mikulski (D-MD), Edward Markey (D-MA), Gary Peters, (D-MI), and Mark Kirk (R-IL). Full text of the CECIL Animal Trophies Act can bedownloaded here.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398634,Smith Demands Release of Vietnam Human Rights Advocate Nguyen Van Dai,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Co-Chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Vietnam RepresentativesChris Smith (NJ-04), Zoe Lofgren (CA-19), and Loretta Sanchez (CA-46), join today to appeal to the Prime Minster of Vietnam appealing for the immediate and unconditional release of Mr. Nguyen Van Dai. Mr. Dai is a respected human rights defender and founder of the Brotherhood for Democracy, an online group of formerly jailed political prisoners.
Smith, Lofgren, and Sanchez, write in the letter [h]is arrest is the latest example in a series of aggressive state-sponsored actions taken against him, including a severe beating by plain clothes security officials earlier this month and a four year prison term that started almost immediately after Vietnam joined the World Trade Organization with the support of the United States. They add [t]he crime he has been charged withconducting propaganda against the Socialist Republic of Vietnam does not equate with his actions, which have been peaceful political expression, advocating for universally-recognized human rights, and providing legal assistance. Click here to read the letter.
Congressman Smith has met Nguyen Van Dai and most of Vietnams prominent human rights and religious advocates, including Father Nguyen Van Ly and the Venerable Thich Quang Do, both of whom remain in some form of detention in Vietnam. Among the nations in Southeast Asia, Vietnam has the highest number of political prisoners.
To support the causes of human rights and democracy in Vietnam, Congressman Smith introduced the bipartisan Vietnam Human Rights Act of 2015. The bill stipulates that the Administration cannot increase funds to promote trade and some defense programs in Vietnam until the President certifies that the Government of Vietnam has made substantial progress in establishing human rights protections. (Bill can be found here)
The Vietnam Human Rights Act would not prevent funding for certain types of humanitarian assistance, efforts to account for POWs/MIAs, food aid, programs to clean up Agent Orange and unexploded ordinances,or programs to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS, and combating human trafficking.
The Administration has promised Vietnam lucrative trade benefits as part of the Trans-Pacific Partnership and new security cooperation, Smith said. The American people should not have to subsidize torture or underwrite the jailing of journalists, religious leaders, labor activists, or advocates of democracy or Internet freedom. The bipartisan Vietnam Human Rights Act will restore the right priorities to U.S. policy toward Vietnam. The Communist Party is not Vietnams future, that future lies with Nguyen Van Dai and the many other advocates of political reform and human rights who seek our freedoms more than our trade. U.S. policy must send the unmistakable message to the Government of Vietnam that human rights improvements are fundamental to better relations, critically linked to our mutual economic and security interests, and will not be ignored or bargained away.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lance.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lance-statement-on-passage-of-the-year-end-spending-bill,Lance Statement on Passage of the Year-End Spending Bill,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Leonard Lance,L000567,lance.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-07) today released the following statement after the U.S. House passed the year-end omnibus spending bill, formally known as the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2016:
I opposed the year-end spending agreement passed by the House today.
The measure does contain a number of provisions I support such as lifting the ban on crude oil exports, closing dangerous loopholes in the federal visa waiver program, providing critical healthcare benefits for 9/11 first responders and blocking several Obamacare provisions including my legislation stopping the taxpayer bailout of insurance companies through the Obamacare risk corridor program.
Most concerning to me is this legislation will reverse the hard-fought cuts in spending enacted by Congress in 2011 the first real cuts the federal government has seen in decades. If Congress is serious about reducing our Nations crippling deficits and debt then we must abide by these reasonable budget restraints.
Passage of the omnibus spending bill is a missed opportunity to repeal excessive regulations and replace misguided executive actions with common-sense conservative reforms that the American People support.
Finally, the annual congressional appropriations process is in a state of collapse. Americans are tired of Washingtons budget dysfunction and end-of-the-year fiscal scrambles where 2,000 page bills are cobbled together with only a few days to review. We must and can do better. We must have the courage to fix our broken budget process, return to regular order in 2016 and pass 12 separate appropriations bills one bill at a time.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lobiondo.house.gov/event/2nd-session-114th-congress-begins,2nd Session of 114th Congress Begins,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Frank LoBiondo,L000554,lobiondo.house.gov,,,legacy,"2nd Session of 114th Congress Begins
Start:
January 5, 2016
End:
January 5, 2016
Dec 18, 2015",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-bill-ban-microbeads-cosmetics-passes-senate-advances-president%E2%80%99s-desk,"Pallone Bill to Ban Microbeads in Cosmetics Passes Senate, Advances to Presidents Desk",2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation Will Protect Nations Waterways
WASHINGTON, DC In a major victory for U.S. waterways and the environment, the Senate today unanimously passed Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr.s (D-NJ-06) Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015, sending the legislation to the President for his signature. Pallone, the Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, introduced the bill earlier this year with Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI-06). It would prohibit the manufacture and sale of personal care products that contain plastic microbeads. These small bits of plastic, used as exfoliants in personal care products like face wash, soap, and toothpaste, can slip through water treatment systems after they are washed down the drain. As a result, these microbeads often end up in local streams, rivers and larger bodies of water. The bill would ban themanufacturing of personal care products containing plastic microbeads effective July 1, 2017.
At a time when gaining widespread bipartisan consensus is anything but easy, I am especially glad my bill to protect U.S. waterways is going to the Presidents desk, said Congressman Pallone. It is a commonsense solution to this little-known but serious problem of plastic microbeads seeping into waterways and threatening the environment and ultimately our health. The ban will spur an important transition from plastic microbeads to non-synthetic alternatives in personal care products.
Scientists have found evidence of microbeads in numerous bodies of water in the United States, including increasingly in the Great Lakes, the worlds largest source of freshwater. In addition to contributing to the buildup of plastic pollution in waterways, microbeads can be mistaken by fish and other organisms as food. If consumed by fish, the chemicals found in synthetic plastic microbeads can then be passed on to other wildlife and humans.
Earlier this year, New Jersey passed a state law to ban the sale of cosmetics containing microbeads.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-statement-senate-passage-tsca-reform-legislation,Pallone Statement on Senate Passage of TSCA Reform Legislation,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, made the following statement on Senate passage today of legislation to reform the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
Im pleased that the Senate has acted on its version of legislation to reform TSCA, said Congressman Pallone. Todays action brings us one step closer to a goal that both I and my friend the late Senator Frank R. Lautenberg shared: effectively removing toxic chemicals from the products millions of American families use every day. However, we still have a long way to go to reconcile the Senate language with the House bill that passed overwhelmingly earlier this year. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in the House and Senate so that this legislation can be signed into law and Americans can be confident that the products they are using are safe.
On June 23, 2015,the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 2576, the TSCA Modernization Act, with an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 398 to 1. The House version of the billwas authored by Pallone, along with Environment and the Economy Subcommittee Chairman John Shimkus (R-IL), Subcommittee Ranking Member Paul Tonko (D-NY) and Full Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI).
Signed into law in 1976, the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) has failed to keep up with the risks presented by existing chemicals used in U.S. manufacturing. Todays marketplace, with industry advancements and increased interstate commerce, has demonstrated the need for modernizing the law to facilitate U.S. manufacturing and improve protections for public health and the environment.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/crossing-safety-system-activated-in-elmwood-park,Crossing Safety System Activated in Elmwood Park,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bill Pascrell,P000096,pascrell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ) and the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) announced the activation of a new crossing signal system at Midland Avenue railroad crossing in Elmwood Park.
In February, Rep. Pascrell urged NJDOT to make safety improvements at the crossing after the New York Times reported it was listed as one of the most dangerous in the nation. Since then, NJDOT has worked closely with NJ Transit, Bergen County, local officials and Congressman Pascrells office to improve safety at this crossing.
Based on what this intersection looked like before the upgrades, this federal investment in Elmwood Park may save lives. This crossing was a major source of trouble, Rep. Pascrell said. We have been continuously trying to improve transportation safety and this is just one example of our hard work paying off. I want to thank the New Jersey Department of Transportation and NJ TRANSIT for their efforts.""
The project included a new queue cutter traffic signal, a new crossing surface, and a new DO NOT BLOCK THE BOX surface treatment. The queue cutter system, which was activated yesterday, uses new signals that are programmed to help prevent cars from stopping on the tracks. The queue cutter system is a first of its kind in the Northeast and the new surface treatment is only the second in the nation. A similar striping pattern was used in Florida that saw incidents reduced by 40 percent.
The safety of motorists and pedestrians is the Departments top priority and one that we take very seriously, Acting NJDOT Commissioner Richard Hammer said. The completion of this project will significantly improve the safety at Midland Crossing by using innovative techniques that have proven successful at other crossings around the country.
We have no greater responsibility as transportation professionals than to ensure the safe travel of those who use our system, NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Veronique Ronnie Hakim said. Through the utilization of innovative and effective measures to improve this grade crossing we have been able to make further progress toward protecting the traveling public. It is important to remember that this is a partnershipone that requires motorists and pedestrians adhere to the protective measures in place and to realize they are there for a reason, and that one risk-taking move could be a final one.
This project cost approximately $800,000, with $300,000 coming from federal funds and $500,000 paid for by the state.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pascrell-endorses-omnibus-appropriations-bill,Rep. Pascrell Endorses Omnibus Appropriations Bill,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bill Pascrell,P000096,pascrell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09), a member of the House Budget and Ways & Means Committees, voted in favor or a measure to fund the government. The House adopted the $1.1 trillion Omnibus Appropriations bill for fiscal year 2016 by a vote of 316 to 113, and with Senate passage, the bill goes to the President for signature.
While not everything we wanted, I am pleased that this budget ensures stable funding and government operations and, most importantly, it helps families in New Jersey by putting more money in their pockets. It invests in our schools, our police departments, our firehouses, Rep. Pascrell said. With this vote today, Congress has made a down payment on our future. This is a hard-fought victory for all of us who have working families at the top of our priorities list.
We fought against poison pills that would have limited health care options and chiseled away at water and air protections. We installed tax credits for renewable energy and made investments in education, defense, and research. These things hit home and we werent going to let up, concluded Pascrell.
Among the notable provisions of the bill were:
Traumatic Brain Injury funding
As co-chair and co-founder of the Congressional Brain Injury Task Force, Rep. Pascrell has long advocated for investments in the research, prevention, and treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI). He was successful in ensuring those investments in the omnibus. Programs for TBI prevention and resources for states and TBI survivors through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the TBI Act, which Rep. Pascrell passed into law, were fully funded. Brain research through the BRAIN Initiative will be provided with an additional $85 million under this bill. Additionally, Rep. Pascrell successfully restored $25 million that House Republicans cut from the Department of Defenses Defense Health Program on TBI and Psychological Health through an amendment earlier this year.
The House considered cutting $25 million and made requirements of other funds, but I kept on it at every turn, said Pascrell. The funding was restored and the requirements were met. This issue is still being understood and its consequences calibrated. We need to do more, not less.
Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation
Rep. Pascrell has been a champion of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act since its inception. The omnibus includes a long-term extension and funding for the 9/11 Health Program and the Victims Compensation Fund to ensure that these heroes have access to the health care they need and families have adequate financial support.
We have an obligation to care for the first emergency responders, the firefighters, and the police that worked on our nations behalf after we were attacked on 9/11, said Pascrell, who represents North Arlington, the hometown of James Zadroga. It is the job of the U.S. Government to protect those who protect us. Renewing the program that provides these heroes and their families with the health care and financial support they need should have been a no-brainer, not a bargaining chip. Nevertheless, I am pleased that we will have a long term extension of the Zadroga Act programs to care for and support those who answered the call of duty at Ground Zero.
Teterboro Size and Weight Amendment
Rep. Pascrell backed an amendment, along with New Jersey Senators, successfully added to annual transportation funding bill drafts this year preventing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) from advancing any proposal to lift the 100,000 pound weight limit at Teterboro Airport.
Our amendment was included to continue safeguarding the region from the dangers and disruption caused by larger jets by prohibiting the FAA from overriding decision making on air traffic by the states of New Jersey and New York, Pascrell said. This must be a local decision.
Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program
Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program is funded at $2.332 billion, an increase from $2.318 billion in FY15.
The government at one time turned its back on this grave health issue, Pascrell said. He has been the lead signatory of the House letter to the Appropriations Committee every year requesting funding for this program. Not on my watch.
Non-Profit Security Grant Program
The Non-Profit Security Grant Program is funded at $20 million (the highest level since FY07). This is an increase from $13 million in FY15.
In my district weve seen that community centers, places of worship, medical centers, and other gathering places need increased security, said Pascrell, who co-led a letter to the Appropriations Committee requesting $25 million in funding. With this funding, they can make the necessary upgrades so that the people of North Jersey feel safer.
Public Safety
As the co-chair of the Law Enforcement Caucus, Rep. Pascrell has worked on a bipartisan basis to preserve federal funding for two crucial law enforcement programs, the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne JAG) program and the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program. Through those efforts he was successful in bolstering funding for the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Grant: $187 million, up from $180 million in FY15 and $187 million above the House GOP bill, which had eliminated the hiring grants. Additionally, Rep. Pascrell successfully ensured the Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grants (JAG) received adequate funding to help local police departments across the nation meet their hiring needs: $476 million, up from $376 in FY15, with the increase dedicated to security for the Republican and Democratic National Conventions.
Its our duty to ensure our law enforcement officers have the resources they need to keep our streets safe. As police departments across the country continue to face budget constraints, these federal funds will allow our police departments to put cops on the street, where they can work with our communities to build partnerships built on trust. As our first line of defense we must continue support the brave men and women who protect us every day, said Pascrell, who took the lead on an amendment to the subcommittee appropriations bill that increased Byrne JAG by $100 million to fund police hiring.
As chairman of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus and author of the Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement (FIRE) Act, which established the firefighter assistance grants, Rep. Pascrell has fought to protect these federal assistance programs that have a positive impact in our communities during these difficult economic times. Earlier this year Rep. Pascrell co-led a letter to the Appropriations Committee requesting $810 million to be equally split between Assistance to Firefighters Grants and SAFER Grants. Those efforts were successful in securing $690 million for these programs; $345 million for Assistance to Firefighters Grants (helps purchase equipment, protective gear, and vehicles) and $345 million for SAFER (helps fund firefighter hiring), up from $680 million in FY15.
As a former mayor, I know the positive impact that federal assistance has in our local municipalities, said Pascrell. The equipment, training and additional hiring made available by these funds will ensure that our firefighters are best prepared to respond to emergencies and protect our communities. This is a worthy federal investment that will improve public safety.
Refugee Funding
Pascrell co-led a letter to the Appropriations Committee requesting increased funding for the refugee accounts. All funding levels were increased or remained level, but the reductions were avoided. Specifically, the U.S. Agency for International Developments International Disaster Assistance received $874.763 million in FY16, up from $560 million in FY15, the Department HHS Office of Refugee Resettlements Refugee and Entrant Assistance received $1.674 billion in FY16, up from $1.559 billion in FY15, and the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, for the Refugee, Asylum and International Operations Directorate received $259.350 million in FY16, up from $239.065 million in FY15.
So many of our families came from places where freedom was not an option. Our ancestors voted with their feet, which is exactly what these refugees are doing, said Pascrell, who has been extremely active in helping to ensure that Syrian refugees have the ability to take refuge in the U.S. America has always been the bulwark against tyranny. Nothing should change that now.
Appropriations Riders
Rep. Pascrell expressed concern about the inclusion of harmful appropriations riders in the omnibus. He signed a letter to House Leadership requesting that no harmful riders be included, including those on funding health care for women. In particular, the congressman was pleased that the bill did not include a provision which would have made it more difficult for or completely banned Syrian refugees from coming to the United States.
These people are running from the terror, not invoking it, said Pascrell, who co-led a letter to House Leadership urging them not to include any riders on Syrian refugees. We are America, a place of refuge in the worst of times and it is the worst of times for these people. This was an important point of principle for me.
Tax Provisions
Renewable Energy: Provides a major boost to renewable energy by extending the wind Production Tax Credit for five years (through 2019), and extending the solar Investment Tax Credit for five years (through 2021), while phasing both credits down somewhat over time. Extending the solar tax credit is estimated to create 61,000 jobs in 2017 alone. It is also estimated that the wind industry will grow to over 100,000 jobs over four years with the renewed wind tax credit.
Delays the so-called Cadillac tax, a tax on employer-provided health plans worth over a certain threshold, for two years from 2018 to 2020. Rep. Pascrell is cosponsor of legislation to repeal the tax.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pascrell-on-tax-relief-bill-far-from-perfect,Rep. Pascrell on Tax Relief Bill: Far from Perfect,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bill Pascrell,P000096,pascrell.house.gov,,,legacy,"PATERSON, NJ U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement following Congress passage of tax extender legislation. The bill, the Protecting Americans From Tax Hikes Act of 2015, passed in the House today by a vote of 318-109. Rep. Pascrell was co-lead on several pieces of the bill, including the Teacher Tax Credit and the Work Opportunity Tax Credit.
The bill is far from perfect, Pascrell said, but there are provisions that support mass transit commuters, small businesses, low-income housing, families paying for college, economic development. The Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit are our biggest forces against poverty in this country, in this nation. I can't say enough about the significance of making these enhanced credits permanent.
When faced with the choice between these important priorities for families, for teachers, for public safety officers, I simply can't in good conscience vote against them to prove a point that not everything is in there, including the kitchen sink, Pascrell said.
Rep. Pascrell spoke on the floor today regarding the bill. His floor speech can be found here: https://cs.pn/1mqcaSu.
Among the positive outcomes of the bill:
Work Opportunity Tax Credit: Extended through 2019 and modified to apply to employers who hire long-term unemployed (unemployed more than 27 weeks or more). Increases the credit for those employers to 40% of the first $6,000 of wages. Rep. Pascrell co-lead legislation with Rep. Tom Reed (R-NY) to expand the credit to include the hiring of long-term unemployed.
Teacher tax credit made permanent: Extends above-the-line deduction up to $250 for expenses incurred by elementary and secondary school teachers, modified to include professional development expenses, and indexed to inflation. Rep. Pascrell co-lead legislation with Rep. Dave Reichert (R-WA) to make this credit permanent.
Thrift Savings Plan age eligibility for public safety officers: Allows public safety officers to access their TSPs before the age of 50 without incurring a tax penalty. This provision, led by Rep. Pascrell and Rep. Reichart, previously passed into law but did not include certain federal officers due to the way they are defined in federal law. This provision would expand the definition of public safety officers who can access their TSP to include nuclear materials couriers, U.S. Capitol Police, Supreme Court Police, and diplomatic security special agents.
EITC Expansion: This bill made permanent the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC) enhancements enacted in 2009. Introduced in 2007, the Strengthen the Earned Income Tax Credit Act was the first tax reform proposal put forth by Rep. Pascrell as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. The bill reduced the EITCs marriage penalty, increased the return for families with three or more children, expanded the credit for individuals with no children, and permanently extended the provision that allows members of the armed forces to include combat pay as income in EITC calculations. The bill was folded in as a part of the $275 billion in tax cuts passed in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. With todays vote, these provisions will become permanent.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-jr-votes-support-omnibus,"Payne, Jr. Votes in Support of the Omnibus",2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) released the following statement after voting in support of the FY 2016 Omnibus Appropriations Act, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 316 to 113:
The omnibus bill is a product of bipartisan compromise that will prevent a harmful government shutdown. New Jerseyans want Congress to work together to create opportunities for economic prosperity. This bill makes crucial investments in key priorities of my district, including early learning, public health, and infrastructureinvestments that will create jobs, grow our economy, and enhance our competitive edge. The bill also reauthorizes the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, ensuring that first responders and survivors dealing with health consequences from the September 11th terrorist attacks continue to have access to the health care they need. Congress should build on this progress and pass additional legislation to enhance the quality of life for hard-working families.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sires-votes-for-omnibus-appropriations-bill-that-will-create,Congressman Sires Votes for Omnibus Appropriations Bill That Will Create Jobs and Grow the Economy with Key Investments in Americas Priorities,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) - Today, Congressman Sires voted to adopt the fiscal year (FY) 2016 Omnibus Appropriations bill. This measure funds the government for FY 2016 and was passed in the House of Representatives by a vote of 316 to 113.
""This funding measure represents significant progress for hard-working American families,""stated Congressman Sires. ""I voted in favor of the omnibus because it will bring much needed stability to middle class families across New Jersey. I am also pleased that the omnibus included reauthorization for the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, giving victims and families of 9/11 access to the services they deserve.""
The bill's investment priorities include $500 million for TIGER grants, $187 million for COPS hiring grants, and a $2 billion increase for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This bill also reauthorizes the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, making the World Trade Center Health Program permanent and reauthorizing the Victims Compensation Fund for five years. In addition, it increases funding for critical programs that assist American families, including the Child Care Development Block Grant and Head Start.
""While not perfect, this bill's passage ends the risk of another unnecessary and damaging government shutdown. Congress has the ability to incite investment, create jobs, and provide stability, but as we have seen, passing measures deadline-to-deadline is not a responsible way to govern. It is my hope that Republicans and Democrats continue to work together in the New Year to pass legislation under regular order rather than passing emergency measures at the last minute,""expressed Congressman Sires.
The legislation was later passed by the Senate and now awaits President Obama's signature.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sires-resolution-on-providing-oversight-on-usaid-unanimously-passes,Sires Resolution on Providing Oversight on USAID Unanimously Passes House of Representatives,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) -Today, H.R. 2241, the Global Health Innovation Act, introduced by Congressman Albio Sires, passed the House of Representatives by voice vote.
Infectious diseases and other health conditions still claim the lives of nearly 9 million people each year. To improve the United States'leadership in global health care, Rep. Albio Sires and Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) introduced legislation to promote the development of health products that are affordable, culturally appropriate, and easy to use in low-resource health systems.
""U.S. investments in global health research are central components of our foreign policy and help increase national security, strengthen U.S. relations around the world, and reduce infectious diseases. The U.S. has a legacy of leadership in global health research over the years and USAID's work has helped for advancements towards an HIV and AIDS free generation, preventable maternal and childhood deaths, and preventable infectious diseases,""stated Congressman Sires. ""I am proud to sponsor this legislation with Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, and grateful for the support of my colleagues in passing this bill. I look forward to H.R. 2241 now being brought before the Senate for consideration.""
Specifically, H.R. 2241 will provide the oversight needed to gain a clearer picture of the United States Agency for International Development's (USAID) global health research and development. Over the years, research and development projects have greatly expanded at USAID, searching for advancements towards an HIV and AIDS free generation, preventable maternal and childhood deaths, and preventable infectious diseases. H.R. 2241 directs the USAID Administrator to report to Congress on the development and use of global health innovations in USAID programs, projects, and activities, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are being spent in the most efficient and effective ways possible.
Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) stated, ""As the number of fatal infectious disease and other health conditions continue to be a global concern, USAID's role is critical. The research and development of health products will help combat these diseases, especially in areas lacking access to health care. I want to thank Congressman Sires for his leadership in the fight against these fatal diseases. I look forward to continue working with him and our congressional colleagues on this issue.""
H.R. 2241 currently awaits action in the Senate.
Text of H.R. 2241 can be seen here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://sires.house.gov/media-center/washington-reviews/washington-review-december-18-2015,"Washington Review, December 18, 2015",2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"This week in Washington, I voted on important legislation including the fiscal year (FY) 2016 Omnibus Appropriations bill to fund the government.
Featured Legislation
This week, H.Res. 536, a resolution I introduced condemning attacks on freedom of the press in the Western Hemisphere, passed in the House of Representatives by a vote of 399 to 2. This bipartisan resolution calls attention to the increasing deterioration of press freedoms in Latin America and the Caribbean. It condemns violence against journalists, bloggers, and individuals exercising their right to freedom of speech. H.Res. 536 urges countries in the region to implement the recommendations made by the Organization of American States, Office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression, and urges the United States Agency for International Development and the Department of State to assist the media in closed societies to promote an open and free press. I am eager to continue working with my colleagues to preserve values that are key foundations of any democracy as we continue to engage with our neighbors in the Western Hemisphere.
Legislation I introduced earlier this year, H.R. 2241, the Global Innovation Act, was unanimously passed in the House of Representatives by a voice vote. Every year, millions of people in developing countries die from preventable causes such as infectious disease, malnutrition, and complications of pregnancy and childbirth. This legislation seeks to improve the United States leadership in global health by promoting the development of health products that are affordable, culturally appropriate, and easy to use in low-resource health systems. The Global Health Innovation Act directs the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to submit a report on the development and use of global health innovations to Congress. This report will help ensure that taxpayer dollars are being used efficiently and effectively in USAID programs, projects, and research by providing the oversight needed to clarify USAIDs health research and development program. I am proud to sponsor this bipartisan legislation and look forward to H.R. 2241 being brought before the Senate for consideration.
Funding the Government
Finally, I joined my colleagues in the House of Representatives and voted to adopt the fiscal year (FY) 2016 Omnibus Appropriations bill which passed by a vote of 316 to 113. It was later passed by the Senate and now awaits President Obamas signature. While imperfect, this bill will bring stability to middle class families and prevent another unnecessary and costly government shutdown. I am particularly pleased that the omnibus reauthorizes the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, providing services and support for the victims and families of 9/11. Furthermore, the bill increases funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and programs that many American families benefit from, including the Child Care Development Block Grant and Head Start. As we enter into the New Year I hope that Republicans and Democrats can continue working together to pass timely legislation that provides stability and benefits our economy.
Thank you for reading the Washington Review. For regular updates, you may stay in touch by leaving comments on my Facebook, Twitter, and website.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://frelinghuysen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=2&itemid=1140,Frelinghuysen praises House approval of 9/11 First Responders Health Bill,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Rodney Frelinghuysen,F000372,frelinghuysen.house.gov,,,legacy,"Frelinghuysen praises House Approval of 9/11 First Responders Health Bill New Jersey Responders Benefit WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (NJ-11) today praised inclusion of the Zadroga Act into the must-pass Consolidated Appropriations Act approved by the House today. The Zadroga Act provides a long-term extension of the health care program for 9/11 first responders, including many from New Jersey, and others suffering from long-term health problems due to their work in Lower Manhattan in 2001 and 2002. Along with NYFD and other New York personnel, dozens of New Jerseys first responders worked in the recovery zone at Ground Zero that horrible day and thereafter, including the New Jersey Task Force One search and rescue team, said Frelinghuysen. The reauthorization of this long-term health program is very good news for our 9/11 heroes and their families. They deserve the very best medical care if they get sick. In 2010 Congress created, with Frelinghuysens support, the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) and the Victim Compensation Fund (VCF), two critical programs that provide medical monitoring, treatment, and compensation to first responders and survivors that have been found to have a higher incidence of certain illnesses and cancers due to exposure to toxins at Ground Zero. Today, the House of Representatives passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act. This bipartisan legislation reauthorizes the WTCHP for the next 75 years and the VCF through 2020, ensuring that New Jersey's bravest, who answered the call on that horrible day, continue to receive lifesaving medical treatment, said Frelinghuysen, the Vice-Chairman of the House Homeland Security Appropriations Committee. James Zadroga was a New York City Police Department(NYPD) officer who died of a respiratory diseasethat has been attributed to his participation in rescue and recovery operations in the rubble of the World Trade Center. He was the first NYPD officer whose death was attributed to exposure to his contact with toxic chemicals at Ground Zero. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://frelinghuysen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=2&itemid=1141,Frelinghuysen Hails House Passage of Omnibus Appropriations Act,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Rodney Frelinghuysen,F000372,frelinghuysen.house.gov,,,legacy,"Frelinghuysen Hails House Passage of Omnibus Appropriations Act Support for Armed Force, Intel Community Comprises Largest Funding Category WASHINGTON, D.C. Calling it absolutely critical for the national security of the United States, U.S. Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen today hailed passage of H.R. 2029, the Consolidated Appropriations Act for Fiscal 2016. The American people are justifiably concerned about their security, said Frelinghuysen, the chairman of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. The defense section of this Omnibus Appropriations Act funds our troops, improves their readiness, allows our Armed Forces to conduct operations overseas and cares for military families and the wounded. It is a major component of the effort to keep America and Americans safe. The Omnibus legislation contains the fiscal year 2016 Defense Appropriations bill for the range of military activities which protect American interests around the globe. The bill includes funds to combat the real-world threat of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), al Qaeda and other terrorist organizations, to continue operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, and to combat other current and emerging threats to national security from Iran, Russia, North Korea and China. In total, the Defense portion of the Omnibus contains $514.1 billion in base discretionary funding, $23.9 billion above the fiscal year 2015 level. This bill also includes $58.6 billion in Global War on Terror/Overseas Contingency Operations (GWOT) funding. This level reflects the increased defense discretionary funding provided by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015, which was enacted on November 2. +++++++++++++++ Ongoing Military Operations The bill contains $58.6 billion in GWOT/OCO funding for ongoing military operations abroad. This funding level will provide needed resources and training for our troops to conduct successful operations and fight our enemies around the globe. This includes funds to combat the threat presented by ISIL, train our Iraqi allies, continue combat operations in Afghanistan, reinforce European countries facing Russian aggression, support allies in the Middle East and Africa, and increase intelligence and surveillance capabilities. Military Personnel and Pay The legislation includes $129.2 billion to provide pay for 1,308,915 active-duty troops and 811,000 reserves. This funding level is $1.2 billion above the fiscal year 2015 enacted level. The bill fully funds the one percent pay raise for the military and provides $300 million above the request to address the housing allowance shortfall ensuring secure housing for all eligible troops and their families. Defense Health and Military Family Programs The bill contains $32.3 billion for the Defense Health Program to provide care for our troops, military families, and retirees. This is $260 million above the fiscal year 2015 enacted level, and includes a $1.1 billion increase above the Presidents request for important research on traumatic brain injury and psychological health, cancer, and suicide prevention outreach programs, among others. Operation and Maintenance The legislation includes $167.5 billion for operation and maintenance $5.8 billion above the fiscal year 2015 enacted level. Within this amount, priority is placed on key areas such as essential readiness programs to prepare our troops for combat and peacetime missions, flying hours, tank miles, steaming days, equipment and depot maintenance, and base operations. Of the funds provided by the bill for operation and maintenance, $609 million above the Presidents request is included to address shortfalls in military readiness, training, and depot maintenance ensuring that our troops are well prepared and supported to meet all current and emerging threats. The bill also includes $263.3 million for Sexual Assault Prevention and Response programs, and an additional $25 million to continue the expansion of the Sexual Assault Victims Counsel program to all military services. Research and Development The bill contains $69.8 billion for research, development, testing, and evaluation of new defense technologies, such as the Ohio Class Submarine replacement and the Long-Range Strike bomber. These efforts will help to advance the safety and success of current military operations and prepare our nation to meet a broad range of security threats in the future. Equipment Procurement The legislation provides a total of $111 billion for new equipment and upgrades. This funding is necessary to ensure our nations military readiness, and will provide the platforms, weapons, and other equipment our forces need to train, maintain our force, and to conduct successful operations. Some of these equipment purchases will include: 68 F-35 Joint-Strike Fighters 102 Blackhawk Helicopters 64 Remanufactured Apache Helicopters Three Littoral Combat Ships Two Attack Submarines Two DDG-51 Guided Missile Destroyers Seven EA-18G Growlers and five F-18E/F Super Hornets 12 KC-46 Tankers Guantanamo Bay The legislation prohibits funding for transfers of Guantanamo detainees to the U.S. or its territories, prohibits funding to modify or acquire any facility in the U.S. to house detainees, and places conditions on the release of detainees to other countries. These provisions are similar to the 2016 National Defense Authorization Act.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://frelinghuysen.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=2&itemid=1143,House Approves Funding for Highlands Conservation Act,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Rodney Frelinghuysen,F000372,frelinghuysen.house.gov,,,legacy,"House Approves Funding for Highlands Conservation Act Washington, DC Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (NJ-11) praised the House of Representatives for including his request for funding for the Highlands Conservation Act as part of the Fiscal Year 2016Omnibus Appropriations Bill. Frelinghuysen, a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, stated that $10 million for land acquisition, from willing sellers, in the Highlands region is included in the bill that was passed by the House today. To date, this is the highest number appropriated in any single year. Preserving the New Jersey Highlands should always be a federal priority. A major source of drinking water and in the most densely populated metropolitan area in the country, the Highlands is a critical area in need of protection. This appropriation shows just how well the Highlands Conservation Act has been working. The Act requires that every federal dollar be matched 100 percent by non-federal dollars. Over $17 million that has been previously appropriated has leveraged state, local, and private funds at a better than two-to-one ratio protecting more than 5,000 acres in the 4-state Highlands Region, said Frelinghuysen. The Highlands Conservation Act, which Frelinghuysen sponsored, was signed into law in 2004. This legislation directs critical funding to the Highlands region of New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Connecticut. It is one of the last open space treasures in the most densely populated area of the United States. Overall, the region provides and protects drinking water supplies for 3.5 million New Jerseyans. Stressing local responsibility and public/private partnerships, the Highlands Conservation Act requires state and local governments from New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut to identify willing sellers and prioritize land acquisition projects. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-donald-norcross-supports-bipartisan-appropriations-bill,Congressman Donald Norcross Supports Bipartisan Appropriations Bill,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC -Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today voted for the bipartisan omnibus appropriations bill that keeps the Federal government open, protects critical programs at South Jerseys Joint Base, delays the so-called Cadillac tax on health care plans for working families, and funds health care programs for heroic 9/11 First Responders.
Im proud to have worked across party lines to pass this bill that protects one of South Jerseys largest employers and one of our nations most strategic military assets, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, said Rep. Norcross. In addition, for months Ive spoken out about the impending tax increase on health care plans for working families, and today Congress acted to stop that tax from impacting families next year. And thankfully, the bill provides funding for the health care needs of the heroic first responders that risked their lives on 9/11.
In addition, the Omnibus bill funds critical priorities for New Jersey and America, including investments and increased funding for:
A 1.3% pay raise for military personnel and enhanced programs for veterans;
Energy efficiency and renewable energy projects;
Environmental cleanup activities;
Medical research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH);
National infrastructure investments through the TIGER program and additional railroad safety grants
State and local community programs to help hire law enforcement personnel and train them to prevent and respond to potential terror attacks; and
Violence against women prevention and prosecution programs.
This critical funding will strengthen families and grow America by investing in national security, jobs opportunities, education, and innovation. These are key investments in our families and our future, said Rep. Norcross.
Yesterday Norcross voted to extend the Perkins Loan Program and the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) that help make college affordable for middle class students. The bipartisan bill also included tax relief for families, students, workers, and businesses that will provide predictability and affordability for hard working Americans and help grow our economy, notably through the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC).
Following that vote, Norcross said The American Opportunity Tax Credit helps make college affordable for middle class students and parents, and New Jersey families rely on the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit to help make ends meet. Today Congress acted on behalf of Americas families, helping them provide for today and plan for the future.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=348,Booker Statement on Passage of Omnibus Funding Package,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Cory Booker,B001288,www.booker.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 18, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) today issued the following statement after the Senate voted on and passed a year-long, $1.1 trillion omnibus funding bill.Booker voted in favor of the bill.
This bill gets a passing grade. Its not ideal, but it is a bipartisan compromise I can accept that extends tax relief for low-income and middle class Americans, permanently renews the health care program for 9/11 first responders and survivors, and averts a number of unnecessary policy riders that would have set our country back.
""I am proud of the wins I was able to secure in this package, including an additional $500 million to the New Starts account to help with the Gateway project and several funding boosts to critical programs to keep streets safer, hire police officers, and reduce recidivism. Im also pleased the tax package adheres to the permanent for permanent principle Ive advocated to make tax relief apply to both businesses and working families.
""While there are some meaningful environmental provisions included, it is disappointing and frustrating to see a repeal of the oil export ban included in this bill, especially without a more robust set of clean energy investments. The ban should not be lifted without being offset by transformative investments in clean energy programs that aim to end our dependence on fossil fuels. This provision should have been negotiated independently from this funding bill.
""Im hopeful Congress can build on this measure with a more reliable appropriations process next year, free from toxic policy riders, tokeep our country moving forward.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=349,Congresses passes Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Cory Booker,B001288,www.booker.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Lawmakers & 9/11 First Responders hail permanent extension of World Trade Center Health Program, full compensation through September 11 Victim Compensation Fund
December 18, 2015
Washington The United States Congress has voted to extend the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act as part of a major spending bill that now heads to the Presidents desk to be signed into law. The bill will extend the World Trade Center Health Program to 2090, and provide full compensation to survivors and first responders through the September 11 Victim Compensation Fund.
The two programs were in the process of shutting down after Congress missed a September 30 reauthorization deadline. In the end, 68 Senators, and 272 House Members backed the bill.
Our courageous first responders stepped up when our country needed them the most. During the September 11thattacks, thousands of brave first responders sacrificed their safety for the good of our country and as a result have been forced to battle serious health issues, said U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ). In New Jersey, over 5,000 survivors and first responders still require medical treatment because of their exposure in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. The permanent extension of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act will enable us to give these courageous Americans the respect and care they rightly deserve.
As someone who first introduced the Zadroga Act and had to fight to pass it that first time, I am thrilled that we are fulfilling our moral obligation as a grateful nation to support our first responders and send a powerful message to all future first responders that we will have their backs as they do ours, said U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ). This should have been obvious from the start. Our first-responders are always here for us and we must be here for them. It would have been unconscionable to go home to celebrate the holidays with our families without finally telling our first responders -- in the name of New Jerseys Jim Zadroga that we will never forget what they did for our fellow citizens and this nation on that day that changed the world.
After months of tireless work by our 9/11 first responders, these brave men and women can finally feel secure that they will have healthcare for the rest of their lives. This victory belongs to them, said U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. And while this should have been an easy moral question for Congress with an obvious answer, our first responders were more than ready to stand up and fight for what they deserve, and today they won. This is an extraordinary group of men and women, and I am honored to represent them.
I thank and congratulate our 9/11 first responders for their tireless efforts, which culminated in victory today. I am proud to have waged this fight with them, said Congressman Pallone (D-NJ). With our first responders at Ground Zero, in the halls of Congress and in the shadow of the Capitol we let the world know that when heroes answer the call for help when we need them most, our country must have their back.
BACKGROUND:
As the nation recovered from the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, a public health disaster was just beginning to unfold. After 9/11, Americans from all 50 states rushed to Ground Zero to assist with the rescue and recovery effort. Thousands of brave men and women risked their lives to help others, working in extremely hazardous conditions often without proper protective equipment while the federal government assured them that the air was safe. Many were injured in the course of this work.
Rescue and recovery workers breathed in a toxic stew of chemicals, asbestos, pulverized cement, and other hazardous substances released into the air when the towers fell, and as the site smoldered for months. The dust cloud that rolled through lower Manhattan after the attacks settled in homes, offices, and buildings exposing tens of thousands more residents, students, and area workers to the same toxins.
Today, more than 33,000 9/11 responders and survivors are struggling with illnesses or injuries caused by the attacks. They live in every state and 433 out of 435 Congressional districts nationwide. Many are disabled and can no longer work. They are suffering from a host of chronic diseases: asthma, obstructive pulmonary disease, and gastroesophageal reflux disease, to name but a few. Medical research has identified more than 50 types of cancer caused by 9/11 toxins. At least 4,166 people have been diagnosed with cancers caused or made worse by 9/11 a number that is sure to grow in the years to come.
To date, over 94 NYPD police officers have reportedly died from their 9/11 injuries since 9/11 more than were killed on 9/11 and more than 110 FDNY firefighters have also died with in the years since, with more deaths expected among all the responders and survivors.
Summary of the Final James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization that was included in the Omnibus
World Trade Center Health Program Section (score $3.5 billion):
Extends the Health Program to 2090 with only minor revisions
Adds a requirement that the Administrator provide for an independent peer review of the scientific and technical evidence prior to adding a condition to the List of WTC-Related Health Conditions.
Changes the deadline for the Administrator to act on petitions to add health conditions to within 90 days.
Sets yearly caps for funding for the health program for the first 10 years and then ties future increases to the Consumer Price Index for all urban consumers.
Allows any unexpended funding in each year to be available for use in future years.
Requires a GAO report every 5 years to ensure program integrity.
Other technical changes
Victim Compensation Fund Section (score $4.6 billion)
Extends the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund for an additional 5 years and adds an additional $4.6 billion to pay claims. Revisions:
All applicants that received an award determination letter before the day of enactment will receive the full amount of their award.
The following caps and limits will apply to any applicant that has not received an award letter by the day of enactment:
Codification of the legal definition for the exposure area the area will be the same as that used by the current VCF program but would take an act of Congress to expand the area in the future.
Non-economic loss awards for cancer claims capped at $250,000.
Non-economic loss awards for non-cancer claims capped at $90,000.
The yearly salary maximum for the calculation of economic awards capped at $200,000/year.
Minimum payments will no longer be provided.
The Special Master is required to re-evaluate the policies once a year to ensure that spending and award determinations prioritize those suffering from the most debilitating conditions.
Other technical changes.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-applauds-budget-provisions-to-jumpstart-nj-economy-improve-infrastructure-create-good-jobs,"Menendez Applauds Budget Provisions to Jumpstart NJ Economy, Improve Infrastructure, Create Good Jobs",2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez Applauds Budget Provisions to Jumpstart NJ Economy, Improve Infrastructure, Create Good Jobs
Menendez Applauds Budget Provisions to Jumpstart NJ Economy, Improve Infrastructure, Create Good Jobs
Friday, December 18, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Bob Menendez today applauded provisions included in the year-end federal budget that help grow New Jerseys economy, allow for critical infrastructure improvements, and spur job creation.
This funding agreement will create new jobs and put New Jerseyans to work by strengthening our communities, upgrading our infrastructure, and investing in underserved and distressed neighborhoods,said Sen. Menendez.Our state and economy are stronger when we expand research and development, support private investment, and incentivize local revitalization projects.
The omnibus legislation being voted on by Congress this week includes the following provisions:
Army Corps Projects Provides$30 million for Army Corps projects in New Jersey, including $500,000 for Rahway River Basin Study, $982,000 for Passaic River Main Stem Re-evaluation and $7.5 million for Green Brook Sub-Basin (construction).
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) Provides $3 billion for the CDBG program.The CDBG program provides annual grants to states and local communities to develop viable urban communities by offering decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons.
Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Provides $125 million for the Choice Neighborhood Initiative, which is a $45 million increase from last year. The Choice Neighborhoods Initiative supports locally-driven strategies to address struggling neighborhoods with distressed public or assisted housing through a comprehensive approach to neighborhood transformation.The program is designed to catalyze critical improvements in neighborhood assets, including vacant property, housing, services, and schools.
Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund Provides $233.5 million for community development in economically distressed urban and rural areas by investing in mission-driven CDFIs. The CDFI Fund administers a range of innovative programs designed to strengthen the ability of CDFIs to provide financial products and services in underserved communities. Additionally, the CDFI Bond Guarantee program is extended next year and will have up to $750 million in bonding authority in order to provide access to long term, low cost capital that can be used for economic growth in economically disadvantaged areas.
Disaster Assistance Provides $300 million in disaster relief to help rebuild communities devastated by floods in 2015. This level of funding is expected to assist approximately 4,000 households composed of homeowners with flood damage and no flood insurance, and very low- to extremely low-income renters with flood damage.
HOME Investment Partnerships Program Provides $950 million, which is a $50 million increase from last year. The HOME program helps states and local governments increase housing affordability through the building, buying, or rehabilitation of affordable housing. This funding level will result in the production of more than 35,000 affordable housing units in 2016.
Teterboro Airport Prevents larger planes from flying into Teterboro Airport, which will improve the quality-of-life for area residents who have been disturbed by increased noise pollution.
New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) Program Keeps the New Market Tax Credit in place for five more years. This federal credit helps increase the flow of capital to businesses and low income communities by providing tax incentives to private investors.
Research and DevelopmentTax Extenders Permanently extends and expands the Research and Development Tax Credit which gives certainty to businesses and provides $113 billion in tax relief to over ten years to incentivize innovation in New Jersey and around the country.
Amtrak Provides $1.39 billion for Amtrak, which is chosen by seventy-eight percent of passengers traveling between New York and Washington, D.C. over air travel.
Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Grants Provides $500 million for TIGER grants, which go to our nation's infrastructure projects that make communities more livable and sustainable.
New Starts Transit Provides $2.2 billion for transit New Starts, which is above current funding levels. The New Starts program provides funding for designing and building new transit lines or extensions of existing lines.
Airport Improvement GrantsProvides $3.35 billion for the Airport Improvement Grant program, which distributes grants to airports across the state, such as Newark, Teterboro Airport, and Atlantic City International Airport, for critically-needed infrastructure projects to enhance capacity and reduce congestion, as well as to improve safety and reduce aircraft noise and emissions. These airport projects also support thousands of contractor jobs in the state.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-on-1st-anniversary-of-cuba-engagement-announcement,Menendez on 1st Anniversary of Cuba Engagement Announcement,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez on 1st Anniversary of Cuba Engagement Announcement
Menendez on 1st Anniversary of Cuba Engagement Announcement
The Cuban path to liberty is undoubtedly farther away today than 365 days ago.
Friday, December 18, 2015
Washington D.C. U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) issued the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the Obama Administrations Cuba engagement policy announcement.
One year ago the President announced sweeping changes to Americas strategic approach to the Castro Regime. In broad strokes, we learned of the forthcoming reestablishment of diplomatic relations an exchange of symbols with the American flag flying over a United States Embassy in Havana and the Cuban flag flying over a Cuban Embassy in Washington; we learned about a general outline of the process by which Cubas designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism would be lifted; and, we learned about the forthcoming transformative effects of a unilateral easing of sanctions to increase travel, commerce, currency, and the flow of information to and from that beautiful island.
For those of us who understand this regime, we cautioned for nuance, and against those broad strokes. At least require the Castros to make certain concessions, which would be as good for U.S. national interests as for U.S.-Cuban relations: Push for changes that put Cubans in control of their own political processes, economic incubators, civil society and governance. Push for changes that honor Americas legacy as a champion for human rights. Push for changes that would ultimately bring Cuba into the community of nations, contributing to rather than detracting from a more prosperous hemisphere.
But, most importantly, remember that it is a lack of resources not a change of heart that has slowed the Castros adventurism and instability-inducing support for those who would pose threats to our national interests. Think strategically.
Instead, we traded strategy for tactics. Opening channels of communication means nothing unless we are going to communicate our values, champion the material changes that the Cuban people seek, and speak in the language that the Castros understand the communist revolution has failed miserably, its time to step down. The Castros know it, but its the antiquated hallmark of the revolution and the iron-fisted rule that came from it that keeps them in power. And, until thats truly challenged, we can expect to witness the weakening of our leverage.
Indeed, the regime is already breathing new life into its repressive state systems: Since the Presidents announcement one year ago, Cubans have been beaten, arrested, and repressed at higher rates than ever before; U.S. fugitives and members of foreign terrorist organizations still enjoy safe harbor on the island; not a penny of the $6 billion in outstanding claims by American citizens and businesses for properties confiscated by the Castros has been repaid; unrelenting censorship and oppression of Cuban journalists continues unscathed; and the Cubanpath to liberty is undoubtedly farther away today than 365 days ago.
As predicted, this one-sided deal was a win for the Cuban regime and a loss for the Cuban people. We have witnessed how the regulatory changes announced last year not only circumvented the intent and spirit of U.S. law, they financially emboldened the Cuban government. To date, the Obama administration has spared no generosity in commuting the jail sentences of Cuban spies, easing travel and trade bans, removing Cuba from the states sponsors of terrorism list, indefensibly upgrading its ranking in the trafficking-in-persons report despite its continued slave labor and human trafficking practices, and even acquiescing to shun dissidents from attending the U.S. Embassy's flag-raising ceremony in Havana.
All of this against a backdrop of continued deceit, repression, and violence and not a single iota of reciprocity by Raul Castro towards the restoration of democracy in Cuba.
I stand with thousands of Cubas civil society leaders, dissidents, journalists, and everyday men and women who long for the day when the freedom we enjoy in our great country extends to theirs. As long as I have a voice, they will have an ally to speak truth to power against this dictatorship, and against any effort to legitimize it or reward it.We must realize the nature of the Castro regime won't be altered by capitulating on our demands for basic human and civil rights. The trajectory of our policy is unacceptable and I continue to urge President Obama to correct its course. If the United States is to give away its leverage, it should be in exchange for one thing, and one thing only, a true transition in Cuba.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/video-menendez-celebrates-passage-of-zadroga-9/11-health-and-compensation-extension,Menendez Celebrates Passage of Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Extension,2015-12-18,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez Celebrates Passage of Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Extension
Menendez Celebrates Passage of Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Extension
Joins 9/11 First Responders to hail permanent extension of World Trade Center Health Program, full compensation through September 11 Victim Compensation Fund
Friday, December 18, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) today joined lawmakers and 9/11 responders at a press conference after the United States Congress voted to extend the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act as part of an end-of year spending bill that now heads to the Presidents desk to be signed into law. The bill will extend the World Trade Center Health Program to 2090, and provide full compensation to survivors and first responders through the September 11 Victim Compensation Fund.
As someone who first introduced the Zadroga Act and had to fight to pass it that first time, I am thrilled that we are fulfilling our moral obligation as a grateful nation to support our first responders and send a powerful message to all future first responders that we will have their backs as they do ours, said U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ). This should have been obvious from the start. Our first-responders are always here for us and we must be here for them. It would have been unconscionable to go home to celebrate the holidays with our families without finally telling our first responders -- in the name of New Jerseys Jim Zadroga that we will never forget what they did for our fellow citizens and this nation on that day that changed the world.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398632,"Reauthorization of the Zadroga Act included in Omnibus LegislationSmith, cosponsor of House bill, says 9/11 1st Responders Deserve Maximum, Continued Support",2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"The 2016 Omnibus resolution that will be voted on in the House Friday includes a critical provision to extend much-needed health care coverage for the brave men and women who participated in the rescue, recovery and clean-up of Ground Zero.
The men and women who responded to the horrific attacks did so with unparalleled courage and without hesitationconcerned only for the welfare of individuals in and around the World Trade Center, not for the potential that they may become sick years later, said Smith, an early and active supporter of establishing the program who has cosponsored the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act (HR 1786) to permanently extend it. Enactment of this provision will solidify the commitment that we as a nation made to honor and remember the victims, their families, and first responders by ensuring they receive the care and treatment they need and have earned.
The World Trade Center Health Program, which expired at the end of September provides medical monitoring and healthcare coverage for the firefighters, police officers, and emergency response personnel from New York, New Jersey and around the country who responded to the 9/11 attacks. As a result of exposure to toxins and other hazards at the site, many have since experienced respiratory injuries and illnesses.
During one of the darkest times in our countrys history, our emergency responders reminded all Americans that when challenged, everyday men and women become heroes, Smith said. This reauthorization continues the tangible benefits now aiding them through their battles with these serious, and unfortunately often fatal, illnesses.
The legislation is named after James Zadroga, a New Jersey native who responded on 9/11 as a member of the New York City Police Department (NYPD). He died from a respiratory disease in 2006 at age 34 in his parents home in Little Egg Harbor Township in Ocean County.
The Omnibus bill also includes an extension of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF, as expanded by the Zadroga Act) which provides compensation for economic losses experienced by responders who suffered physical illness or injury.
Smiths support for the Zadroga Act is one of the many actions he has taken as a consistent and effective supporter of programs and benefits for those who survived 9/11 as well as the thousands of family members who lost a loved one killed in the attack. He helped lead on several legislative initiatives including a timely tax relief package and the creation of the Victims Compensation Fund.He was the lead Republican in the effort to establish the independent investigation known as the 9/11 Commission and he chaired several hearings himself investigating what can and should be done to make America safer.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lance.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lance-passage-of-the-path-act-will-bring-stability-and-certainty-to-our,Lance: Passage of the PATH Act Will Bring Stability and Certainty to our Economy,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Leonard Lance,L000567,lance.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. --- Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-07) today released the following statement after passage of H.R. 2029, theProtecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015:
The PATH Act delivers important taxrelief to millions of workingfamilies, small businesses and manufacturers by making a number of temporary taxprovisions permanent. Thelegislation would, among other things, postpone the onerous medical device tax for two years under Obamacare and make permanent thecritical research and development tax credittwo key victories for New Jerseys vibrant life sciences sector thatemploys thousands of Garden State residents and delivers billions of dollars to our state economy. Thebill also contains important bipartisan reforms to rein in the IRS and protect taxpayers from being targeted unfairly. Passage of the PATH Act will bring stability and certainty to our economy and lays the groundwork for enacting comprehensive tax reform in 2016.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-beach-act-funded-omnibus-spending-bill,Pallone Announces BEACH Act Funded in Omnibus Spending Bill,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the BEACH Act is funded at $9.549 million in the omnibus spending bill, a victory for New Jersey beach goers and the states tourist economy. Earlier this year, Pallone led a letter to the Appropriations Committee calling for the funding of the program, despite the Presidents fiscal year 2016 budget proposal zeroing out funding for the program. The program, which was established by legislation authored by Pallone and late-Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ), sets national water quality standards and provides states with grants to test water quality and notify the public when conditions are unsafe. In addition to calling for funding of the program, Pallone and Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) recently introduced the BEACH Act of 2015 to update the existing law.
New Jerseys beaches are a tremendous resource for those who come here to enjoy them, and a huge economic engine for our state, said Congressman Pallone. I am very pleased that our call for funding of the BEACH Act was heard. It is not only a victory for our beachgoers and economy, the recognition of the need to fund this program adds momentum to my bill with Senator Menendez to reauthorize and strengthen the existing law.
Our members of Congress have ensured it is safe to splash in the ocean again this summer by reinstating funding for the BEACH act, which tests the waters off our beaches, said Cindy Zipf, Executive Director of Clean Ocean Action. Our thanks to Congressman Pallone and other members of Congress who defended this important program. In the future, we look forward to the passage of the reauthorization of the new BEACH Act, which will bring the program into the 21st century and provide more secure funding.
Under the BEACH Act, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is required to work with states to ensure they use the latest science to sample and test beach waters to protect the public's health.If tests come back positive for contaminants, the state is required to close the beach until it is clean.The law also helps states set up and operate comprehensive monitoring and notification programs in order to provide up-to-date information on the condition of all public beaches.
According to the Natural Resources Defense Councils annual analysis of water quality data, 10 percent of all samples exceeded EPAs benchmark for assessing swimmer safety. Furthermore, EPA has estimated that up to 3.5 million people become sick from contact with raw sewage from sanitary sewer overflows each year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://sires.house.gov/media-center/did-you-know/wright-brothers-take-the-first-flight,Wright Brothers Make First Flight,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"On December 17, 1903, at 10:53 AM, Orville and Wilbur Wright launched the first airplane flight, on their new innovation, The Flyer. The two brothers travelled from their hometown Dayton, Ohio to Kitty Hawk, North Carolina in order to test their invention. The first flight lasted 12 seconds. A coin toss decided that Wilbur Wright would be the first to fly their new creation. The Wright Brothers are commemorated for their ingenuity that propelled them to do something once believed to be unimaginable. Transportation travelled to new heights on this historic day and the industry was changed forever.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://macarthur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/macarthur-leads-letter-president-iran-s-nuclear-program,MacArthur Leads Letter to President on Irans Nuclear Program,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Tom MacArthur,M001193,macarthur.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congressman Tom MacArthur today urged President Barack Obama to immediately restore all relevant sanctions on Irans nuclear program. MacArthur was joined by 14 House colleagues in this request.
Recently, Vladimir Putin announced that Russia has begun to deliver S-300 surface-to-air missiles to Iran in direct violation of the five year ban of offensive weapon sales included in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) agreed to in July. These missiles will expand Irans current capabilities and have the potential to shoot down an American, Israeli, or allied bombers.
In July, MacArthur opposed the JCPOA calling it a threat to the security of America, Israel and our allies in the Middle-East which does not end Irans nuclear program, but actually results in reduced pressure and less protection.
President Obama is ignoring another Iranian provocation and further endangering the US and our allies, said Congressman Tom MacArthur. We can never underestimate the resolve of a state sponsor of terror. The ink is barely dry on the agreement and Iran is already seeking to rearm. We must put an end to this before any harm comes to the United States, Israel and our allies in the Middle East.
###
Full text of the letter here",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-donald-norcross-supports-bipartisan-tax-relief-families,"Congressman Donald Norcross Supports Bipartisan Tax Relief for Families, Students, Workers and Businesses",2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC -Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today voted for tax breaks for families, students, workers, and businesses that will provide predictability and affordability for hard working Americans and help grow our economy.
Among the tax credits in todays bipartisan legislative package are the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit (CTC), and American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) that directly benefit working families and students.
This is the tax break working families need. New Jersey families rely on the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit to help make ends meet. Meanwhile the American Opportunity Tax Credit helps make college affordable for middle class students and parents, said Rep. Norcross. Today Congress acted on behalf of Americas families, helping them provide for today and plan for the future.
According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, 599,000 New Jersey households received the EITC and 448,000 received the low-income CTC in 2012, the most-recent year covered by their report. More than 222,000 New Jerseyeans, including 114,000 children, were lifted out of poverty by the EITC and CTC programs that same year. The EITC alone injected $1.3 billion into the states economy. The AOTC allowed more than 300,000 students and families in New Jersey to receive an estimated $700 million each year to help with education expenses.
The bill also prioritizes education by extending a tax credit for out-of-pocket costs incurred by teachers for school expenses. Furthermore, small business spending, research and development spending, and charitable giving are all incentivized by todays vote. Finally, the bill suspends the medical device tax that threatened to slow manufacturing and innovation in that industry.
Im working across party lines to grow America by investing in education, business innovation, and tax deductions for charitable giving. These are key investments in our families and our future that Im proud to support, said Rep. Norcross.
The Earned Income Tax Credit provides tax benefits to qualified low and middle-income workers and their families. The amount of the credit varies depending on annual income, marital status and number of children. The Child Tax Credit allows qualified individuals to reduce their tax liability by $1,000 per qualifying child under 17. The American Opportunity Tax Credit allows up to $2,500 per year for tuition and related expenses.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watson-coleman-denounces-republican-tax-giveaways,Watson Coleman Denounces Republican Tax Giveaways,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bonnie Watson Coleman,W000822,watsoncoleman.house.gov,watsoncoleman,https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"For Immediate Release:
Washington, DC (December 17, 2015) — Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) voted against a Republican tax extender package projected to increase the federal deficit by $622 billion over the next ten years by making a host of tax cuts permanent without any viable plan to cover the cost of those cuts. Watson Coleman issued the following statement on the bill, which will now move to the Senate:
“I am dumbfounded by the capacity of Republicans in this Congress to pay lip service to the need to find solid fiscal footing, and then hand over a silver platter of unfunded tax breaks to corporations and special interests. What’s more, I’m disgusted by their willingness to line the pockets of big business while refusing to support an ailing middle class and countless struggling Americans.
“While they are vital to so many families and policies that I vehemently support, even the inclusion of the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Care Tax Credit doesn’t make up for the destruction this bill will cause down the line. The GOP majority seems determined to widen the gap between average American workers and CEOs making millions; this goes against everything our nation has ever stood for. This irresponsible legislation is just another example of their willingness to prop up the highest earners on the backs of the hardest workers.”
The package considered by the House today will make 22 different tax provisions permanent, extend four provisions over a five-year period, and extend several more until 2017. In the process, the bill risks undermining government revenue and places discretionary spending on programs that help build and repair infrastructure, strengthen national security, and support working families at greater risk. 60 percent of the tax cuts in the bill will support large companies, resulting in a handout of nearly $350 billion.
House Democrats, including Watson Coleman, have consistently called for the consideration of permanent business tax provisions in the context of broader tax reform, offsetting their costs by closing special-interest tax loopholes.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T20:33:33Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-government-budget-bill-supports-nj-middle-class-working-families_-,"Menendez, Booker: Government Budget Bill Supports NJ Middle Class, Working Families",2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez, Booker: Government Budget Bill Supports NJ Middle Class, Working Families
Menendez, Booker: Government Budget Bill Supports NJ Middle Class, Working Families
Thursday, December 17, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Bob Menendez and Cory Booker today said the year-end federal budget bill which will be voted on by the full Senate tomorrow invests in several priorities that support New Jerseys middle class and working families. Specifically, the bill makes the increased tax benefit for transit commuters permanent, provides mortgage debt relief for underwater homeowners, makes expansions to the Earned Income and Child Tax Credits permanent, dedicates funds for Alzheimers research, protects and invests in womens health care, Head Start and student loans to help pay for college.
Im incredibly pleased this funding bill includes several important provisions Ive long championed that invest and protect our middle class and working families, said Sen. Menendez. It will put real money back in the pockets of transit riders in the face of rising fares, give a lifeline to struggling homeowners, ensure women have access to quality health services, and help our young people afford to go to college. It also makes permanent the earned income and child tax credits, which together help pull families out of poverty and into the middle class.
This is a balanced deal that will help both working families and New Jersey businesses. Ive been fighting for parity since negotiations began if we make business credits permanent, lets also make permanent important improvements to the EITC and Child Tax Credit in order to do whats right for working families in New Jersey and across the nation, said Sen. Booker. When I was Mayor of Newark, my Administration made access to these tax credits a priority through the creation of a free tax preparation center in city hall and the promotion of free VITA sites across the city. Now Im proud to help make these tax credits stronger.""
The omnibus legislation being voted on by Congress this week includes the following provisions:
Transit Parity Increases the maximum monthly commuter tax benefit for transit riders to be equivalent to the current parking benefit, and makes this parity permanent. This amounts to an estimated annual savings of over $1,000 for New Jerseyans who rely on mass transit.
Mortgage Debt Relief Excludes from taxation, the amount of a mortgage debt forgiven through loan modification, short sale, or other cancellation such as a government buyout, which would otherwise be treated as taxable income. Not only does this tax relief help Sandy victims struggling with mortgage debt, it also helps homeowners whose home values declined during the financial crisis and whose mortgages are still underwater because home prices havent sufficiently rebounded in their neighborhood.
Earned Income Tax Credit The bill makes expansions to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) permanent for low-income working families. In the 2013 tax year, over 27 million working families and individuals received the EITC with an average benefit of $3,074 for a family with children (boosting wages by about $256 a month). The EITC has been widely credited by economists as one of the most effective tools to combat poverty, particularly childhood poverty.
Child Tax Credit The bill makes expansions to the Child Tax Credit (CTC) permanent . It is worth up to $1,000 per eligible child (under age 17 at the end of the tax year).When filing taxes for 2015 working families can receive a refund equal to 15 percent of their earnings above $3,000, up to the credits full $1,000-per-child value. For example, a single mother with two children who earns $14,000 in 2015 could receive 15 percent of $11,000, or $1,650, as a refund.
Teachers The bill restores funding for Teacher Quality State Grants, which had been cut by $668.3 million in the House bill and $103.4 million in the Senate version. These grants provide funding for schools to increase academic achievement by improving teacher and principle quality. It also expands and makes the $250 Educator Expense Deduction for school supplies purchased permanent.
Alzheimers Research The bill increases funding for the National Institutes of Health by $2 billion for a total of $32 billion, including $350 million dedicated to Alzheimers research.
Womens Health The bill includes $286.5 million for the Title X program, which provides comprehensive family planning and preventive health services to more than 4 million men and women in 2014, including more than 780,000 Pap tests, 1.3 million breast exams, 3 million STD tests and 1 million confidential HIV tests. This appropriation is $29 million more than in the Senate Republican proposal and $286 million more than House version, which eliminated the program.
Head Start/Education The bill provides over $68 billion in funding for education programs, including $14.9 billion for Title I funding ($350 million more than the Senate Republican bill, and $500 million more than FY15) and $9.17 billion for Head Start ($470 million more than the Senate Republican bill, and $570 million more than FY15). Title I grants support more than 80 percent of the 14,000 school districts across the nation and more than 23 million students. The Head Start funding total includes a cost-of-living increase for grantees that will restore enrollment to the 2014 level of 927,000 funded slots. The omnibus also restores $250 million of funding for Preschool Development Grants, which had been zeroed out in both the House and Senate bills, and increases funding for Child Care Development Block Grants by $326 million from FY15 levels.
Pell Grants -- The bill provides $22.475 billion for the Pell Grant program to maintain the max discretionary award at $4,860 for the 2016-2017 school year. Combined with mandatory funding, the total max award is estimated to increase by $140 to $5,915. There will be about 8.4 million Pell Grant recipients during the 2016-2017 school year, an increase of more than 100,000 students compared to the current year. The funding level is $300 million more than both House and Senate Republican committee proposals.
Substance Abuse/Opioids The bill includes $3.8 billion for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), which is $319 million more than the Senate Republican committee proposal. The total includes $47 million directed to addressing the burgeoning epidemic of prescription drug and heroin overdose: $25 million - an increase of $13 million - for medication assisted treatment in high-risk states, $12 million for naloxone distribution in 10 states; and $10 million for prevention efforts in up to 20 states that will build awareness of prescription drugs.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-tout-budget-provisions-to-assist-nj-first-responders-ensure-readiness-in-face-of-increased-terror-threat-,"Menendez, Booker Tout Budget Provisions to Assist NJ First Responders, Ensure Readiness in Face of Increased Terror Threat",2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez, Booker Tout Budget Provisions to Assist NJ First Responders, Ensure Readiness in Face of Increased Terror Threat
Menendez, Booker Tout Budget Provisions to Assist NJ First Responders, Ensure Readiness in Face of Increased Terror Threat
Extends Zadroga Act, contains funding for police, firefighters
Thursday, December 17, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker today lauded provisions included in the year-end federal budget that support New Jersey first responders, honor our 9/11 heroes, and ensure N.J. Air National Guard readiness at a time of heightened national security.
As someone who first introduced the Zadroga Act and fought hard to pass it the first time, I am thrilled that we are fulfilling our moral obligation as a grateful nation to support our first responders and send a powerful message to all future first responders that we will have their backs as they do ours, said Sen. Menendez. This budget also includes critical funding to help ensure our first responders are properly equipped, staffed and ready to answer the call when emergencies strike.
Our brave first responders stepped up when our country needed it most, and now Congress has now finally stepped up for them, said Sen. Booker. We must not forget the selfless sacrifice of these brave men and women, many of whom still suffer serious health issues long after the debris was cleared from the World Trade Center site. By prioritizing programs like the James Zadroga Act, AFG and COPS, we are demonstrating our commitment to our first responders and letting them know that they will never stand alone.
The omnibus legislation being voted on by Congress this week includes the following provisions:
Zadroga Act Extends permanently the 9/11 health and compensation law named after New Jerseyan James Zadroga, the New York City Police detective who became the first World Trade Center first responder to die from the health effects of exposure to toxins at Ground Zero, until 2090.
Sen. Menendez, who wrote language in the Zadroga Act to create the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund, called for a permanent extension during Senate floor speeches on Dec. 9 and Sept. 29. He and Sen. Booker joined comedian Jon Stewart and other federal lawmakers on Capitol Hill in September to urge Congress to reauthorize the bill, and last month, they led a rally in Elizabeth with N.J. first responders and other delegation members.
Fire Dept. Grants Increases funding to hire more firefighters and improve safety and operations in local fire departments across New Jersey. Provides $345 million for Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program and $345 million for the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Act grants. Both programs increased by $5 million from FY15 levels.
Since the programs were established in 2001 and 2003, New Jersey has received $159.1 million in AFG funding to enhance response capabilities, and more than $202 million in SAFER grants to hire firefighters.
Police Dept. Grants Restores $187 million for Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grants, zeroed-out in the original House Republican budget, to hire more local police officers.
New Jersey received $5,187,015 in COPS funding in fiscal year 2015 to hire 39 police officers statewide. In March, both Senators led a letter signed by 33 Senators urging the highest possible funding in fiscal year 2016.
177th Fighter Wing Provides $10.2 million to the 177th Fighter Wing of the N.J. Air National Guard for a Fuel Cell and Corrosion Hangar at the Atlantic City Airport.
The Fuel Cell Maintenance Dock provides covered, protected areas for fuel systems maintenance. Proper heating, electrical, plumbing, compressed air systems, mechanical ventilation, fume sensing/alarm systems, fire extinguishing and wash-down drains are required in this facility. The Corrosion Control Hangar provides an environmentally controlled area to wash aircraft as well as hangar space for corrosion treatment and repair.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-presses-admin-about-irans-violations-of-ballistic-missile-ban-at-hearing,Menendez Presses Admin About Iran’s Violations of Ballistic Missile Ban at Hearing,2015-12-17,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez Presses Admin About Irans Violations of Ballistic Missile Ban at Hearing
Menendez Presses Admin About Irans Violations of Ballistic Missile Ban at Hearing
Is the Admin ready to act so that Iran understands the consequences of violating the international order?
Thursday, December 17, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) today asked U.S. State Department officials pointed questions about Irans repeated violations of the U.N. Security Councils (UNSC) ballistic missile ban at a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing titled The Status of JCPOA Implementation and Related Issues.""
Menendez said: I have a very clear sense and I hope Im wrong that what we have here is a permissive environment What we got really was a process in the JCPOA that gave Iran the easy out by really just simply answering questions as they wanted to without really fully coming clean.
Menendez spoke about recent reports of Irans ballistic missile ban violations and his concerns that the UNSC would not take action because of Russia and China. He then asked: Is the Admin ready to act and find its own set of actions so that Iran understands the consequences of violating the international order?
The full question-and-answer exchange can be viewed below:
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398630,Smiths Bipartisan Stem Cell Bill Heads to the Presidents Desk,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"With a unanimous show of support, U.S. Rep. Chris Smiths legislation, the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act (H.R. 2820), cleared its final hurdle and is on its way to the President for signature and enactment.
Smith and lead co-sponsor Rep. Doris Matsui shepherded the bill through the House last summer with the support of Reps. David Jolly (R-FL) and Chaka Fattah (D-PA), and worked with Senators Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Richard Burr (R-NC) and Al Franken (D-MN) who championed the bill in the Senate, making helpful modifications and sending it back to the House for one final vote of approval.
As adopted by both chambers, H.R. 2820 now ensures that two collaborative programs that support treatment and therapies derived from adult stem cell lines will continue to receive funding through 2020. Under the legislation, the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program will be authorized for five years at $30 million annually, while the National Cord Blood Inventory (NCBI) is authorized at $23 million annually for a 5 year period.Smith authored the original law (The Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act of 2005P.L. 109-129) that created the national cord blood program and expanded the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program.
It is incredibly timely to reauthorize this life-giving program during this gift-giving time of year, Smith said. Americans willing to give the gift of life to others are at the heart of the success of this program. In reauthorizing it we are grateful for the adult donors willing to provide bone marrow or peripheral blood stem cells, as well as mothers who donate their childs cord blood through public cord blood banks.
Passage of the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act provides hope to the thousands of Americans and their families who suffer from painful and potentially life-threatening blood cancer or other bone marrow disorders, said Congresswoman Matsui. The Be the Match National Registry makes possible life-saving transplants by connecting patients with donors, and funding the services and research needed to eradicate these devastating diseases.
First passed in 2005, the original legislation established a nationwide integrated bone marrow and cord blood stem cell transplantation program. Stem cells derived from cord blood and bone marrow have been used successfully to treat tens of thousands of patients with such diseases as leukemia, sickle cell anemia and genetic disorders. The enactment of H.R. 2820 will continue to build these donor networks, thus enabling more people to have access to these lifesaving treatments.
""It remains one of the best kept secrets in America that umbilical cord blood stem cells and adult stem cells in general are curing people of a myriad of terrible conditions and diseases in adults as well as children. Cord blood, what was once seen as medical waste, is now making miracles, Smith said.
There are 13 public banks contracted through NCBI, including the New Jersey Cord Blood Bank which collects cord blood from five participating hospitals. The New Jersey Cord Blood Bank, part of Community Blood Services in Montvale, has approximately 7,000 cord blood units in storage and has shipped 300 units to transplant centers for treatment.
The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) estimates that every year about 12,600 people depend on the programs made available by this law to find an unrelated adult marrow donor or cord blood unit for treatment.
Today, Americans have access to more than 12 million adult volunteer donors and 209,000 cord blood units through the national registry, known as Be The Match. Transplants involving these adult stem cells are often the only hope for patients battling fatal blood cancers and other bone marrow disorders and conditions. Since the inception of the registry, the Program has successfully facilitated 68,000 transplants.
Importantly, during consideration in the Senate HELP Committee, language was added to direct the relevant agencies to study the state of science using adult stem cells and birthing tissues to develop new therapies for patients. Smith said Last year I visited Celgene Corporation of Summit, New Jersey to learn of their extraordinary efforts to use cord blood to heal diabetic foot ulcers and how theyve turned amniotic membranean old placentainto wound management that has now advanced past stage three clinical trials to the approval and regulatory filings stage.
Breathtaking scientific breakthroughs have turned medical wastepost birth placentas and umbilical cord bloodinto medical miracles treating more than 70 diseases including leukemia, lymphoma and sickle cell anemia, said Smith. Not only has God in His wisdom and goodness created a placenta and umbilical cord to nurture and protect the precious life of an unborn child, but now we know that another gift awaits us immediately after birth. Something very special is left behindcord blood that is teeming with lifesaving stem cells.
Original House cosponsors David Jolly (R-FL) and Chaka Fattah also joined in celebration of the bills passage. Representative Jolly said, I applaud my colleagues in the House and Senate for approving this bipartisan legislation that reauthorizes the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation program and the National Cord Blood Inventory through fiscal year 2020. These programs have saved tens of thousands of lives and continue to make key advances in marrow and cord blood transplantations that increase survival rates and expand the number of diseases for which marrow transplantation is a cure.I urge the President to sign this important, life-saving measure right away.
Representative Fattah said, Evolving research tells us that bone marrow and cord blood transplants continue to be effective treatments for a number of diseases and disorders, but in order for this to be truly successful, we must ensure that access to the national registry is expanded and there are readily available donor databases for those patients in need. The passage of this legislation will now ensure these steps happen and will ultimately save lives as a result. This issue has been a longstanding priority for me, and I am proud Congress has voted overwhelmingly to reauthorize the critical funding for these two programs.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-fight-911-heroes%E2%80%99-health-care-close-victory,Pallone: Fight for 9/11 Heroes Health Care Close to Victory,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, with the release of the omnibus spending bill, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, applauded the inclusion of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act. As an original co-sponsor of the bill and as the lead Democrat on the Committee of jurisdiction, Pallone has been integral in advancing the bill and was responsible for negotiating the final language for permanent reauthorization within the omnibus spending bill. Reauthorization of the legislation will ensure that first responders and survivors of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center continue to receive the monitoring and care they need. Due to the Zadroga Act, over 4,800 responders or survivors are getting treatment in New Jersey through the WTC Health Program at Rutgers Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences Institute in Piscataway. Without reauthorization, the health of thousands of 9/11 first responders would be at risk.
The tireless efforts of 9/11 first responders on Capitol Hill, in New Jersey, New York and around the country, is nearing a victory at the finish line. I am so proud to have waged this fight with them, said Congressman Pallone. For far too long, the lives of first responders were caught up in the internal politics of the Republican Caucus. But, together, with our first responders at Ground Zero, in the halls of Congress and in the shadow of the Capitol we let the world know that when heroes answer the call for help when we need them most, our country must have their back.
In 2011, the bipartisanJames Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010was signed into law, establishing the WTC Health Program and the Nationwide Provider Network and reopened the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). The programs provide the thousands of 9/11 responders and their survivors with medical treatment for 9/11-related health conditions and economic compensation for losses resulting from the attack. Without reauthorization, the WTC Health Program and the VCF will expire in 2016.
In addition to providing for health care services, the legislation directs the Department of Health and Human Services to conduct and support research into new conditions that may be related to the attacks and to evaluate emerging methods of diagnosis and treatment. The program builds on the expertise of the Centers of Excellence, which are currently providing high-quality care to thousands of responders and ensuring ongoing data collection and analysis to evaluate health risks.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pascrell-king-laud-increased-funding-for-nonprofit-security-grant,"Pascrell, King Laud Increased Funding for Nonprofit Security Grant Program",2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bill Pascrell,P000096,pascrell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ) and Rep. Peter T. King (R-NY) announced increased funding for the U.S. Department of Homeland Securitys (DHS) Nonprofit Security Grant Program has been included in the Congressional spending deal.
At a time when our communities are seeing an increased threat of a terrorist attack, this funding will go directly toward making nonprofit organizations safer, said Rep. Pascrell, an original member of the House Committee on Homeland Security. No one should feel unsafe in a place of worship or a community center, which is why Rep. King and I fought hard for an increase in the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. This increase in funding will enable more nonprofit organizations across the country to acquire and install equipment that will secure themselves against a potential attack.
Unfortunately too many recent incidents have reinforced the need for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program said Rep. King. Organizations who are at risk of a potential terrorist attack need to have the necessary equipment and security measures in place. I am proud to have worked with Rep. Pascrell in making sure this critical program receives an increase in funding.
The DHS Nonprofit Security Grant Program funding is part of the Congressional omnibus bill being considered today. The program funding is increased to $20 million in the FY2015 bill, the highest is has been since FY2007. The program saw an increase from $10 million for FY2013 to $13 million for FY2014.
Rob Goldberg, Senior Director of Legislative Affairs at The Jewish Federations of North America, states: We are grateful that Congress, in large part due to Congressmen Pascrell and King, has appropriated additional resources to the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) at a time of heightened concerns for Jewish security. In recent years, New York City and Northern New Jersey have experienced some of the highest incidents of anti-Semitism and threats to the Jewish community from violent, homegrown extremists. Thanks to the leadership of Representatives Pascrell and King, this high-risk region, and communities throughout the United States, will be in a better position to protect their nonprofit institutions. We commend these members for not only being vocal proponents of the NSGP this year, but also for partnering with the Jewish community to ensure security needs have been met in past funding cycles.
In March, Pascrell and King teamed up by leading a letter signed by 39 of their bipartisan House colleagues urging the co-chairs of the House Appropriations Committee Subcommittee on Homeland Security to fund the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program at $25 million in the FY2015 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill. Reported attacks at houses of worship in the district over the past few years underscore the need for additional and continued security funding.
The full text of the letter follows:
March 20, 2015
The Honorable John Carter
Chairman
Subcommittee on Homeland Security
House Appropriations Committee
Washington, DC 20515
The Honorable Lucille Roybal-Allard
Ranking Member
Subcommittee on Homeland Security
House Appropriations Committee
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Carter and Ranking Member Roybal-Allard:
Thank you for your service in ensuring that adequate resources are available to protect our communities from threats and disasters. As you consider programs that deserve additional funding, we respectfully ask you to fund the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) Non-Profit Security Grant Program (NSGP) at $25 million in the FY2016 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill. This program is vital to the security of vulnerable non-profit facilities.
As you know, the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, provides critical support for physical security enhancements to nonprofit organization at high risk of a terrorist attack.
Several recent events illustrate the vulnerability of non-profits such as houses of worship to terrorism and hate crimes. In April of last year, a pair of shootings committed by a lone gunman occurred at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Kansas City and Village Shalom, a Jewish retirement community, killing three people. Less than three years ago, a gunman killed six people and wounded four others in a tragic mass shooting at a Sikh temple in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. In 2011, a string of anti-Semitic hate crimes targeting synagogues in Northern New Jersey culminated in arson when an incendiary device was thrown through the window of an Orthodox temple, that was the home of a Rabbi, his wife, five children and father. Six years ago, two synagogues in New York City were targeted by domestic terrorists, and a security guard was killed at the Holocaust Museum in Washington, DC in 2009. During a 2006 incident, an attacker shot six women at a Jewish community center in Seattle, killing one of them. In addition, preparation for high profile gatherings, like those that will take place during Pope Francis visit to the United States later this year, illustrate the need for this funding.
Credible threats against non-profit institutions across the country continue to be a problem. These incidents highlight the continuing need for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which was designed precisely so that at-risk nonprofit organizations that serve as community centers can acquire and install equipment to secure themselves against a potential terrorist attack. These capital improvements include upgraded security measures, such as installing cameras, physical barriers, or controlled entry systems.
We strongly urge you to provide $25 million for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program in the FY2015 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill. Thank you for your consideration of this request.
Sincerely,
(Signatories include Reps. Joyce Beatty, Susan Brooks, Andre Carson, Matt Cartwright, David N. Cicilline , Yvete Clarke, Emanuel Cleaver, Danny K. Davis, Tammy Duckworth, Donna F. Edwards, Eliot Engel, Elizabeth H. Esty, Chaka Fattah , Stephen Fincher, Mike Fitzpatrick, Marcia Fudge, Joe Heck, Chris Van Hollen, William Keating, Peter King, Barbara Lee, Carolyn B. Maloney, Sean Patrick Maloney, Grace Meng, Gwen Moore, Jerrold Nadler, Donald Norcross, Bill Pascrell, Jr., Donald M. Payne, Jr., Scott Peters, Charles Rangel, Loretta Sanchez, John Sarbanes, Jan Schakowsky, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, David Scott, Albio Sires, Dina Titus, Marc Veasey and Lee Zeldin.)",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/pascrell-statement-regarding-federal-interest-rate-hike,Pascrell Statement Regarding Federal Interest Rate Hike,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bill Pascrell,P000096,pascrell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ), a member of the House Budget and Ways and Means Committees, released the following statement regarding the Federal Reserves first increase of interest rates in nearly a decade:
""Todays rate announcement by the Federal Reserve reflects growing confidence in the American economy. Our nation added 211,000 jobs in November. Home prices have risen steadily; unemployment is down to 5 percent; and we have stronger consumer confidence and stronger wage growth. Clearly, we are on the road to recovery. It is my hope that this action will benefit savers with higher returns on their investments. I remain concerned that this recovery will reach all Americans, and will continue to push the Congress to that end. For instance, my bipartisan proposal to extend a business tax credit to employers hiring long-term unemployed workers was included in the just-released tax and budget deal, which we hope will create jobs for those seeking to get back in the workforce. More work remains, and I hope the Federal Reserve will be sure to consider all Americans before making any future announcements.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-jr-introduces-gun-buyback-legislation,"Payne, Jr. Introduces Gun Buyback Legislation",2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) today introduced the Safer Neighborhoods Gun Buyback Act of 2015, a bill that increases incentives to sell back guns around the country, provides a stimulus to the economy, and recycles the sold guns into environmentally-friendly objects.
The Safer Neighborhoods Gun Buyback Act provides a two-year, $360 million grant that allows the U.S. Department of Justices Director of Bureau of Justice Assistance to distribute smart debit cards to state and local governments, as well as gun dealers, who can then distribute the cards to gun owners in exchange for firearms.
We owe it to the communities we have sworn to protect to pursue every opportunity to reduce gun violence in our neighborhoods, said Congressman Payne, Jr. Although no one piece of legislation will eliminate all gun violence, this bill will get guns off the streets and keep them out of the hands of people who wish to cause harm. If we can get one gun off the street, if we can save one life, then we have to take action.
The programs debit cards will provide gun owners with funds 25 percent above the market value of the guns traded in, based on an assessment conducted by the Director of Bureau of Justice Assistance, and will be valid for two years. Sales on individual firearms are expected to range in price anywhere between $40 and $400 depending on alterations, condition, age, and model of the firearm. Consumers can then spend the money on their debit cards and help stimulate the local economy.
However, the debit cards cannot be used to purchase firearms or ammunition and cannot be redeemed for cash. The cards will automatically notify dealers that a purchaser is attempting to use the cards to buy guns. If they violate this provision of the law, both the purchaser and the dealer will be responsible for repaying the government in the amount of the gun sale or will be imprisoned for not more than 2 years, or both.
Finally, the Safer Neighborhoods Gun Buyback Act is unique in that it is environmentally friendly, as it will designate 10 percent of the grant money toward recycling of the guns traded in.
Click here for a PDF of the bill.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sires-and-ros-lehtinen-resolution-condemning-attacks-on-press-freedoms,Sires and Ros-Lehtinen Resolution Condemning Attacks on Press Freedoms in the Western Hemisphere Passes the House of Representatives,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) - Yesterday, H.Res. 536, a resolution condemning attacks on press freedoms in the Western Hemisphere, introduced by Congressman Albio Sires, successfully passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 399 to 2. H. Res. 536 was introduced with bipartisan support, with Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) serving as the lead Republican cosponsor.
""Growing up in Cuba, I saw how the Castro brothers took over the island by ruthlessly silencing anyone that dared to speak out against their undemocratic and unfair tactics. Since then, I have strongly believed that freedom of speech is a fundamental right. Preserving freedom of speech and holding accountable the people and governments who seek to quiet their dissenters should be a top priority when engaging both in our region, and around the globe,""stated Congressman Sires.
H.Res. 536 supports a free press in Latin America and the Caribbean by condemning violations of press freedom and violence against journalists, bloggers, and individuals exercising their right to freedom of speech. It also urges countries in the region to implement the recommendations to Member States made by the Organization of American States Office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression. Lastly, this resolution urges the United States Agency for International Development and the Department of State to assist the media in closed societies to promote a free press.
""I am proud to sponsor this legislation and grateful for the support of my colleagues in passing this resolution. I look forward to working with my colleagues as we continue to engage with our neighbors in the Hemisphere and work to raise up the voices of those who are fighting for free speech,"" said Rep. Sires.
Text of H.Res. 536 can be seen here.
Click here to watch the video.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://macarthur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/macarthur-amendments-prohibiting-base-closures-and-retirement-kc-10,MacArthur Amendments Prohibiting Base Closures and Retirement of the KC-10 Included in 2016 Government Funding Bill,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Tom MacArthur,M001193,macarthur.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congressman MacArthurs amendments prohibiting base closures and the retirement of the KC-10 were today included in the 2016 government funding bill.
""The KC-10 is critically important not only to our military's air mobility and readiness, but to the survival of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and the 40,000 New Jersey residents employed there,"" said Congressman MacArthur. ""Our fight for the KC-10 and the Joint Base began in January, and Im so pleased our hard work has paid off with written protections preventing a future base closure as well as the retirement of the KC-10 in our nations defense bill and the 2016 government funding bill.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://macarthur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/macarthur-applauds-protections-911-first-responders,MacArthur Applauds Protections for 9/11 First Responders,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Tom MacArthur,M001193,macarthur.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congressman MacArthur applauds protections for 9/11 first responders included in the 2016 government funding bill.
Congressman MacArthur was working in New York City at the time of the terrorist attacks and saw first-hand what first responders sacrificed in the line of duty.
The 2016 government funding bill includes a five-year extension of 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund (VCF) and reauthorization of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act through 2090.
When we said never forget, we meant it, said Congressman MacArthur. The heroes of 9/11 risked their lives and offered care in our nations time of need and they must not be forgotten. The James L. Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act will provide medical monitoring and treatment for 9/11 first responders and victims. Across the country, 9/11 responders and survivors are suffering from conditions caused by their exposure at Ground Zero and they deserve a program that delivers results our heroes will not be forgotten.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://macarthur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/macarthur-honors-women-s-suffrage-alice-paul-congressional-gold-medal,MacArthur Honors Womens Suffrage with Alice Paul Congressional Gold Medal Act,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Tom MacArthur,M001193,macarthur.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congressman Tom MacArthur today announced that he had introduced H.R. 4204, the Alice Paul Congressional Gold Medal Act, to posthumously award a Congressional gold medal to Alice Paul, in recognition of her role in the womens suffrage movement and in advancing equal rights for women.
Alice Paul was born on January, 11, 1885, in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, and died on July 9, 1977. Alice Paul dedicated her life to securing suffrage and equal rights for all women and, as founder of the National Womans Party, she was instrumental in the passage of the 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution.
Few residents of South Jersey have had a greater impact on American history than Alice Paul, said Congressman Tom MacArthur. Alice Pauls tireless dedication and courage paved the way for future generations guaranteeing all American women the right to vote. Alice Paul is an example to all Americans of what one individual can do to make a difference for millions of people. I am proud to recognize her tireless efforts to give a voice to women in our democracy and abroad.
Alice Paul was a courageous suffragist who dedicated her life to advancing womens rights in nearly every aspect of American society, said Representative Kathleen Rice. Im proud to join Representative MacArthur in cosponsoring this bipartisan bill honoring a hero from our region who championed efforts to secure womens right to vote and legal protections against gender-based discrimination.
""On behalf of Sewall-Belmont, I'm very proud that this legislation has been introduced to honor a true American hero,"" said Page Harrington the museum's Executive Director. ""Too often women's history is forgotten, and the women who contributed to further perfecting our democracy are left out of the history books. I believe this Congressional Medal will help us to elevate the status of Alice Paul, the National Woman's Party, and the tireless work of so many women who contributed to womens suffrage and equal rights progress, returning her memory and that of others back into the public conversation.""
Lucienne Beard, Executive Director of the Alice Paul Institute which is based at Pauls birthplace in New Jersey, remarked, HR 4204, the Alice Paul Congressional Gold Medal Act, is a fitting tribute to Alice Pauls lifelong work for legal equality for all Americans. She is truly a champion of the rights expressed in our Constitution.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=346,Booker Statement on Senate Confirmation of Tony Coscia to Amtrak Board of Directors,2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Cory Booker,B001288,www.booker.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 16, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement after the Senate voted to confirm Tony Coscia, a New Jerseyan, to serve another term on the Amtrak Board of Directors. Booker is a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, which oversees passenger rail, including Amtrak. Booker is also the highest-ranking Democrat on the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security, the panel responsible for overseeing Amtrak.
I am extremely pleased the Senate has voted to confirm Tony Coscia to another term on the Amtrak Board of Directors. Amtrak has been well-served by Tonys leadership and will continue to be as it embarks on the Gateway project alongside state and federal partners. Countless New Jerseyans depend on safe, reliable, and efficient Amtrak service each year. Its good to have a New Jerseyan serving in this critical role, particularly one with such deep qualifications and expertise.
In 2010, Tony Coscia was confirmed to serve on the Amtrak board for a five year term expiring in 2015. He was elected chairman of the Amtrak board in 2013. He previously served as Chairman of the Port Authority of New York/New Jersey and is currently a partner at the New Jersey law firm Windels, Marx. He is a graduate of Georgetown University and Rutgers University School of Law.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=347,"Booker, Cruz Emergency Broadcasting Bill Passes Out of House, Heads to President's Desk",2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Cory Booker,B001288,www.booker.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Public broadcast stations provide critical information when a disaster strikes
December 16, 2015
WASHINGTON U.S. Sens. Cory Booker, (D-N.J.) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) issued the following statements after the House of Representatives passed their bill, the bipartisan Emergency Information Improvement Act of 2015. The legislation designates non-profit public broadcasting stations as eligible for federal assistance when damaged by storms and other disasters. The bill, which passed today, now heads to the Presidents desk.
As we experienced during Superstorm Sandy, public radio and broadcast stations are an essential source of information when a disaster strikes. It is absolutely critical that we enable entities with broad communications reach to relay real-time information to the public during an emergency, Sen. Booker said. The Emergency Information Improvement Act ensures that locally licensed stations are eligible for disaster relief funding in the event their facilities are impacted by a natural disaster. Its passage out of the House today marks a meaningful step forward in keeping communities prepared for the worst. New Jerseyans and Americans who have endured severe weather disasters know all too well that access to emergency information can be a matter of life or death and Im pleased this legislation will move forward to provide a source of relief for these stations.
When disaster strikes, it is critical that the American people have access to real-time emergency information that can save lives.Texas understands the seriousness of these threats more than most states as it has made 90 major disaster declarations since 1953 and routinely prepares for tornadoes, floods, wildfires, and hurricanes. Public radio and broadcast stations can play a significant role providing critical information during and after natural disasters and terrorist attacks. The Emergency Information Improvement Act will help eliminate any ambiguity in current law by allowing critical service communications facilities to quickly make necessary repairs and prepare for the next disaster, Sen. Cruz said.I commend my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and in both chambers for passing this legislation,and look forward to sending this bill tothe Presidents desk.
Approximately 98 percent of the American population has access to a public radio or TV signal. Current federal emergency response and relief statutes are ambiguous on whether local public broadcasting stations are eligible for emergency financial assistance when damaged by storms and other disasters. This legislation designates public broadcasting stations as one of several nonprofits eligible for federal assistance in the event of a disaster, which will allow the stations to keep operating to provide key information to local communities.
The Emergency Information Improvement Act was introduced in April with Sen. Ted Cruz. The legislation was passed by the Senate in September. The bill text can be viewed here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-applaud-rebates-of-785k-for-cleaner-school-buses-in-nj,"Menendez, Booker Applaud Rebates of $785K for Cleaner School Buses in NJ",2015-12-16,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez, Booker Applaud Rebates of $785K for Cleaner School Buses in NJ
Menendez, Booker Applaud Rebates of $785K for Cleaner School Buses in NJ
Buses Will be Retrofitted in Southampton, Wall, Thorofare, Secaucus and Vineland
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-NJ) today applauded the awarding of $785,000 in rebates from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to replace or retrofit 42 older diesel school buses in New Jersey. The new and retrofitted buses will reduce pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter that are linked to numerous health problems, including asthma and lung damage, and will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, thereby helping address climate change.
Retrofitting old, dirty school buses is a win for our air, our health, our economy and the quality of life of all New Jerseyans, said Sen. Menendez. I always welcome announcements like this because we have a moral obligation to do all we can to combat climate change and keep our children, our schools and our communities healthy and safe. I am relieved students in the Garden State will be riding school buses that emit less pollutants and I look forward to living in a cleaner, greener New Jersey.
This federal investment in clean diesel technology marks a significant step in ensuring the health and well-being of our children and the quality of the air we breathe, said Sen. Booker. Common sense programs like this help strengthen our economy while reinforcing our commitment to a clean and healthy environment, which is why I will continue to stand in support of it.
Schools and other organizations that install clean diesel technology are doing more than just saving money --- theyre creating cleaner, healthier air for children and all community residents, said Christopher Grundler, director of EPAs Office of Transportation and Air Quality. This program continues to help thousands of children breathe easier and lead safer lives year after year.
Nine percent of New Jerseyans suffer from asthma and, additionally, our most-rapidly growing minority populations are incredibly vulnerable with over 3.6 million Latinos in the U.S. living with asthma, including ten percent of Latino children.
In addition to the daily public health risks caused by pollution, it also drives longer-term risks in the form of rising seas levels and more unpredictable weather.The Northeast has seen the largest increases in extreme precipitation in the United States, including dealing with Superstorm Sandy, and reducing dirty diesel emissions can help curb that trend.
The EPA has implemented standards to make newer diesel engines more than 90 percent cleaner, but many older diesel school buses remain in operation and pre-date these standards. Nearly 17,000 of our countrys schools are located within steps of a heavily-traveled road, potentially exposing more than six million children to traffic-related pollution at a time when their developing lungs are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of air pollution.
These New Jersey rebates are part of the EPAs Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) programs third round of funding. Sens. Menendez and Booker signed a letter to the Senate Appropriations Committee in March urging them to increase DERA funding by $10 million in FY 2016. More than $7 million in rebates to replace or retrofit 400 older diesel school buses were just announced around the country. Since 2008, the DERA program has funded more than 650 clean diesel projects across the country, reducing emissions in more than 60,000 engines. Click here for more information about this rebate program.
New Jersey Rebate Details:
Southhampton$365,00020 school busesRebate goes to Garden State Transport, Inc.
Secaucus$160,0009 school busesRebate goes to the Secaucus Board of Education
Thorofare$100,0005 school busesRebate goes to H.A. DeHart Transportation Co.
Wall$100,0005 school busesRebate goes to the Wall Board of Education
Vineland$60,0003 school busesRebate goes to Vineland Public Schools
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-federal-funding-rutgers-studies-impact-climate-change-fisheries,Pallone Announces Federal Funding to Rutgers for Studies on Impact of Climate Change on Fisheries,2015-12-15,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that Rutgers University will be the recipient of significant federal grant funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for a study on the impacts of climate change on fish stocks and fisheries. Rutgers will lead or be involved with three of the seven projects, which will receive a total of $5 million.
Commercial and recreational fisheries are integral to the New Jersey economy, and support millions of jobs and close to two-hundred billion dollars to the U.S. economy each year. Yet, the impacts of climate change, including warming oceans and sea level rise, can impact fisheries and fish stocks, and the businesses and communities that depend on them, said Congressman Pallone. The grant will not only provide research to better understand this critical component of New Jerseys economy, it will help Rutgers University continue to be a leader, on the cutting edge of climate research and science.
The three projects supported by the grant, in which Rutgers will lead or be involved, follow.
Rutgers University and NOAA Earth Systems Research Laboratory will conduct A high-resolution physical-biological study of the Northeast U.S. shelf: Past variability and future change. Dr. Enrique Curchitser of Rutgers University will be a Lead Principal Investigator for the study.
The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council study Climate velocity of the 21st century and its implications for fisheries management in the Northeast U.S. will be led by Dr. Malin Pinsky of Rutgers University.
Rutgers University will team with NOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center, University of Delaware MARACOOS, and University of Rhode Island to conduct a study on Indicators of habitat Indicators of habitat change affecting three key commercial species of the U.S. Northeast Shelf: A design to facilitate proactive management in the face of climate change. Dr. Grace Saba of Rutgers University will be a Lead Principal Investigator for the study.
These projects and three others will support research to understand and respond to climate impacts on fish and fisheries in the Northeast Shelf Large Marine Ecosystem. The seventh will support a workshop focused on ecosystem tipping points in the North Pacific.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-on-iaea-board-vote-to-close-investigation-into-iran-nuclear-weapons-activities-,Menendez on IAEA Board Vote to Close Investigation into Iran Nuclear Weapons Activities,2015-12-15,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez on IAEA Board Vote to Close Investigation into Iran Nuclear Weapons Activities
Menendez on IAEA Board Vote to Close Investigation into Iran Nuclear Weapons Activities
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ), author of the Iran Sanctions Relief Oversight Act of 2015 to extend the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 for ten more years, issued the following statement in reaction to the vote by the International Atomic Energy Agencys 35-nation Board of Governors to close the investigation into Irans past and present nuclear weapons activities.
I dont accept that the IAEA report competently or fully addresses the true nature of Irans past weapons of mass destruction program. The report was a whitewash. And it certainly doesnt give us any more insight into Irans past activities or future intentions. The U.S. should not have agreed to shut the door on further investigating the possible military dimensions of Irans nuclear weapon programs based on a diluted, inconclusive investigation.
This sets a terrible precedent for the IAEA with respect to investigations in other countries and more importantly, does not provide the United States with full information on the scope and progress of Irans nuclear weapons program information that is critical to guide the IAEAs inspection and verification regime under the JCPOA.
It is also a green light for Irans regime, which is watching closely, and which will continue to test the limits of the JCPOA and the international community. If ever there is a time to send a strong message, the time is now. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to join me in extending the Iran Sanctions Act beyond its 2016 sunset.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-legislation-make-polluters-pay-superfund-cleanup-not-taxpayers,"Pallone Announces Legislation to Make Polluters Pay for Superfund Cleanup, Not Taxpayers",2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Calls for Passage of Bill with Senators Menendez and Booker, Rep. Pascrell and EPA
Garfield, NJ Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced legislation he introduced to help the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cleanup sites listed on the Superfunds National Priority List. The Superfund Polluter Pays Act would reinstate the Superfund tax to ensure polluters, not taxpayers, pay for the cleanup of Superfund sites. Pallone was joined by Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) who will introduce a Senate version of the legislation this week along with Congressman Bill Pascrell (NJ-09) and EPA Region 2 Administrator Judith Enck.
The American taxpayer should not be paying for the mistakes of corporate polluters,"" said Congressman Pallone. There are Superfund sites that threaten public and environmental health in New Jersey and across the country that EPA would be able to clean up if not for the inadequate funding. The Superfund Polluter Pays Act will replenish the necessary funds by holding corporations accountable for their mistakes and environmental degradation. Congress must pass this legislation to protect the American taxpayer and ensure that the industries polluting our land and water are responsible for the cleanup of these sites.
Roughly 50 percent of New Jerseys population lives within 3 miles of a Superfund site the largest percentage of any state in the country. Superfund sites are contaminated with toxic substances that can make their way into drinking water wells, creeks and rivers, backyards, playgrounds and streets. Communities impacted by these sites can face restrictions on water use and recreational activities as well as economic losses as property values decline due to contaminated land. In the worst cases, residents of these communities can face health problems such as cardiac impacts, infertility, low birth weight, birth defects, leukemia, and respiratory difficulties.
Our state has the most work to do, and the most to gain by increasing funding for this critical program, continued Pallone. I have always been a champion of cleaning up New Jerseys toxic sites so they can be redeveloped to benefit local communities, and I will continue the fight for this much-needed legislation.
In 1995, despite opposition from Pallone and other Democrats, a Republican Congress allowed the Superfund tax to expire. Before its expiration, the collected taxes were placed into a Superfund Trust Fund that was used for the clean-up of so-called ""orphaned sites,"" where the party responsible for the pollution either no longer existed or could not afford the cost of the cleanup. Without those revenues, Superfund cleanups have been delayed, the backlog of sites needing cleanup has grown, and the costs have shifted to the taxpayers. Pallones legislation would reinstate this vital tax.
Todays announcement was made at the Garfield Groundwater Superfund Site. There are also several Superfund sites in need of cleanup or monitoring within Pallones Congressional District in Monmouth and Middlesex Counties. Examples follow.
Horseshoe Road site in Sayreville is the former location of a chemical processing facility. Its operations contaminated soil and groundwater, as well as the adjacent Raritan River.
The Chemical Insecticide Corp. site in Edison Township is the former location of the corporations industrial facility. Its operations contaminated the area and caused migration of contaminants off site.
The Imperial Oil site in Marlboro Township includes a plant and surrounding contaminated properties. From 1969 to 2007, Imperial Oil Company operated a facility on site, and previously, other companies operated the site, including a chemical processing plant. These operations contaminated soil and groundwater.
The Conell-Dubilier Electronics site is located in South Plainfield. Due to smelter operations and the construction of structures using these wastes, extensive areas of soil, sand and sediment are contaminated by lead.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pascrell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-pascrell-calls-on-espn-to-combat-concussion-stigma-and-admonish,Rep. Pascrell Calls on ESPN to Combat Concussion Stigma and Admonish Analyst Comments,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Bill Pascrell,P000096,pascrell.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09), co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Brain Injury Task Force, sent the following letter to John Skipper, President of ESPN, regarding recent comments ESPN analysts have made about concussions.
As an organization that employs many retired college and NFL athletes, I would hope that you recognize the influence that your network and its employees have, Pascrell wrote in a letter to Skipper. When your employees make comments that belittle protocols and measures that aim to make sports safer and discount the seriousness of head injury, your organization has a responsibility to admonish them.
The full text of the letter follows:
Dear Mr. Skipper,
I am writing to express my concern about recent comments made by ESPN analysts about concussions. As the co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Brain Injury Task Force, I urge you to help ensure that the individuals that your organization employs treat head injuries with the gravity that they deserve.
In the U.S. Congress, the Congressional Brain Injury Task Force works to increase awareness of brain injury in the United States, supports research initiatives for rehabilitation and potential cures, and strives to address the effects such injuries have on families, children, education, and the workforce.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as many as 3.8 million sports- and recreation-related traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are estimated to occur in the United States each year, ranging from relatively mild concussions to fatal head injuries. Though symptoms may appear minor, the injury can have life-long effects on an individuals memory, behavior, learning, and/or emotions.
I appreciate the work that ESPN reporters have done to highlight the dangers of concussions, as well as quality programming that educates sports fans and raises awareness about the issue. For this reason, I find it surprising that your organization would fail to comment or discipline employees who make statements that significantly downplay the risks that football players and other athletes face as a result of head injuries.
In response to a New York Times op-ed by Dr. Bennet Omalu, the doctor who first discovered chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which raised questions about children playing contact sports due to concerns about brain injury, ESPN college football analyst Danny Kanell tweeted that the war on football is real and that concussion alarmists are loving it.
During an interview with Charlie Rose in October, ESPN analyst Ray Lewis dismissed concerns about concussions and accused the National Football League (NFL) and those pushing for improved health and safety measures of diluting the game. Additionally, he called new rules prohibiting targeting when a player takes intentional aim at his opponent, especially his head or neck disgusting.
One of the greatest challenges we face in combatting the concussion epidemic is changing peoples perceptions about the gravity of these injuries. We have made great strides in raising awareness and educating the public about the dangers of head injuries. However, unfortunately, a stigma still remains and athletes of all ages sometimes attempt to hide symptoms of concussions and continue playing out of fear that they will be viewed as weak or inferior. This is especially concerning in youth athletes.
In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued a report, ""Concussion at Play: Opportunities to Reshape the Culture Around Concussion,"" which provides recommendations on building a culture in sports that helps encourage athletes to help lower their chances of sustaining a concussion, as well as take necessary steps and time to recover in the event of a concussion. Many of the strategies may seem simple, but they can be extremely impactful and rely on the adults in childrens lives to set a good example. Changing the way coaches and parents talk about head injuries and react to young people reporting concussion symptoms is the first step to changing a culture that can be downright dangerous for athletes. The CDC found that young athletes who are ridiculed or insulted by their coaches or their parents for expressing concerns about a concussion are more likely to continue playing despite a possible head injury. Additionally, when youth athletes are not encouraged to report concussion symptoms, it becomes easy for them to view concussions as non-serious, which is not the case.
Professional athletes and sports media networks must play a role as well. As an organization that employs many retired college and NFL athletes, I would hope that you recognize the influence that your network and its employees have. When your employees make comments that belittle protocols and measures that aim to make sports safer and discount the seriousness of head injury, your organization has a responsibility to admonish them.
Thank you in advance for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response. Please feel free to contact Alyssa Penna in my office at Alyssa.Penna@mail.house.gov or (202)225-5751.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-jr-announces-10th-district-participation-congressional-app-challenge,"Payne, Jr. Announces 10th District Participation in Congressional App Challenge",2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Newark, N.J. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) announced that New Jerseys 10th Congressional District will participate in the 2015 Congressional App Challenge (CAC), a nationwide event that gives high school students an opportunity to build software applications, or apps, for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice.
This competition showcases the innovation and technical skills of our students, the tech leaders of tomorrow, said Congressman Payne, Jr. I encourage students to take advantage of this tremendous opportunity to demonstrate and hone their skills in a competitive but fun competition designed to enhance youth engagement in STEM.
The Challenge submission period will run until January 15, 2016. Winners will be selected by a panel of local judges, and honored by the Congressman. Their apps will be featured on a display in the Capitol building.
The CAC was created because Congress recognized that STEM skills are essential for economic growth and innovation, and that the U.S. has been falling behind on these fronts. To maintain American competitiveness, it is crucial that the United States invests in our youth now, and helps them acquire these necessary STEM-based skills. The CAC highlights and encourages students to pursue those skills.
Students can find additional information on the Congressional App Challenge at https://payne.house.gov/serving-you/congressional-app-challenge.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-jr-statement-3rd-anniversary-sandy-hook-tragedy,"Payne, Jr. Statement on 3rd Anniversary of Sandy Hook Tragedy",2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Payne,P000604,payne.house.gov,,,legacy,"Newark, N.J. Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10), a member of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, today released the following statement marking the 3rd anniversary of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting:
On the 3rd anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy, we remember the 26 children and educators massacred while going about their daily lives. As we reflect on that day, we must acknowledge that we, as a nation, have failed to do enough to prevent gun violence and reduce the likelihood of future tragedies.
The epidemic of gun violence in this country chips away at the foundations of our society, taking from us family members, friends, and loved ones. Its an epidemic of mass shootings, but also of broader and routine gun violence in our communities. The time to act is now. We have a responsibility to the communities we have sworn to protect to implement meaningful, common-sense legislation to reduce gun violence and save lives.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://norcross.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congress-must-act-keep-weapons-away-terrorists,Congress Must Act to Keep Weapons Away from Terrorists,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Donald Norcross,N000188,norcross.house.gov,,,legacy,"Cherry Hill, NJ -Rep. Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today joined members of South Jerseys law enforcement community in calling for immediate action to close the so-called terrorist background check loophole.
The loophole in federal gun laws allows those on the governments terror watch list to legally obtain deadly firearms. The bipartisan Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act, introduced by Rep. Peter King (NY-02), would close that loophole.
This is about keeping deadly weapons out of the hands of those who are intent on harming innocent Americans. This is an urgent national security matter, said Rep. Norcross.
A recent GAO report found that over 2,000 suspected terrorists successfully purchased guns in the past decade. Congressman Norcross was joined by Sheriffs and Police Chiefs from South Jersey who also expressed outrage and disbelief that this loophole exists on the federal level. While serving in the New Jersey Legislature, Norcross joined a similar bipartisan effort to deny weapons to terrorists that was enacted into state law.
How can someone pledge their allegiance to ISIS and still be allowed to legally buy a firearm in this country? Thats outrageous. We have no greater duty than to protect the people of the United States. We can never be totally certain when or where terror will strike. But we must take common-sense steps to reduce our risks. Taking action to close this loophole is another reasonable step to protect Americans, said Rep. Norcross.
This week Congressman Norcross will formally petition House Speaker Paul Ryan to delay adjourning Congress and keep representatives in Washington until this urgent national security concern is addressed. Last week Norcross joined over 170 members of Congress who signed a discharge petition in the House of Representatives that would force the terror loophole bill to the floor for a vote if signed by the majority of the members.
A member of the House Armed Services Committee and Emerging Threats Subcommittee, Congressman Norcross traveled last month to the Middle East where he received classified national security briefings from military and intelligence leaders.
Following his trip, Rep. Norcross said, My recent trips to Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt have confirmed the grave nature of the threats posed by ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and a host of other extremist organizations intent on committing murder throughout the world. My first responsibility is to ensure the safety and security of the American people, and we must take prudent, focused steps to do just that.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=344,"Booker, Menendez, Pascrell, Pallone Announce Legislation to Hold Polluters Responsible for Cleanup of Superfund Sites",2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Cory Booker,B001288,www.booker.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Bill reinstates the excise tax on polluting industries to pay for the cleanup of New Jerseys most contaminated sites
December 14, 2015
GARFIELD, NJ - Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-NJ) and U.S. Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Bill Pascrell, Jr. (NJ-09) were joined by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 2 Administrator Judith Enck at the Garfield Ground Water Superfund Site to announce the reintroduction of legislation in the Senate and House that would force industries responsible for contamination of Superfund sites to pay for their clean-up.
""Far too many New Jerseyans are forced to suffer the health impacts and financial burdens of living in close proximity to severely contaminated sites,"" said Sen. Booker. ""It's simply unacceptable that communities like Garfield have to languish in uncertainty while Congress fails to address the shortfalls in the Superfund cleanup program. We must remain committed to continuing Senator Lautenberg's legacy of advocating for the well-being of every single New Jerseyan and their right to live in a safe and healthy environment.This bill corrects an inexcusable injustice and places the onus on polluting industries to restore Superfund sites back to safe, healthy areas that can attract investment and economic development.""
""You make the mess, you clean it up. It's as simple as that,"" said Sen. Menendez. ""If you profited from polluting the environment then you should pay to clean up the mess you leave behind. It's time to restore the Superfund Trust Fund, make it solvent, make it effective, and hold polluting companies accountable for the damage they do to our environment. It's time to clean-up New Jersey's 113 Superfund sites, including the one here in Garfield, return the land back to the community, protect the health and safety of surrounding residents, and create jobs and economic development for New Jerseyans in the process.""
""Dealing with this contaminated plume has been long and arduous for the residents of Garfield. Remediating this orphan site must be a top priority, and the federal government must dedicate resources to continue the work,"" said Rep. Pascrell. ""I am committed to the Superfund Polluter Pays Act to make sure taxpayers don't have to pick up the check for polluters - it should be their cost to bear.""
""The American taxpayer should not be paying for the mistakes of corporate polluters,"" said Congressman Pallone, the House sponsor of the companion bill. ""There are Superfund sites in New Jersey and across the country that EPA would be able to clean up if not for the inadequate funding. The Superfund Polluter Pays Act will replenish the necessary funds by holding corporations accountable for their mistakes and environmental degradation. Congress must pass this legislation to protect the American taxpayer and ensure that the industries polluting our land and water are responsible for the cleanup of these sites.""
""The federal Superfund is running on fumes, which has real implications for the people of New Jersey. It is important to reinstate the lapsed Superfund fees as soon as possible,"" said Judith A. Enck, Regional Administrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The Superfund Polluter Pays Restoration Act of 2014 reinstates the excise tax on polluting industries to pay for the cleanup of Superfund sites, relieving taxpayers of the expense. It also expands the definition of crude oil in order to make oil from tar sands and shale subject to the excise tax. Additionally, it makes funds available to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on an ongoing basis, not subject to annual appropriations.
Last year, as the Chairman of the Oversight Subcommittee on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, Sen. Booker chaired a hearing on the need for increased funding for EPA's Superfund program. Then-Garfield Mayor and current Councilman Joseph Delaney testified at the hearing to discuss the urgent need for increased federal funding to cleanup Superfund sites in communities like Garfield.
Following the hearing, Sen. Booker and Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) requested a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on the downward funding trend and its impact on the effectiveness of the program. The report, released this fall, shows that while the number of Superfund sites increased between 1999 (1,054) and 2013 (1,158), funding for cleanups has continued to decline.
New Jersey has 113 Superfund sites on the National Priority List - more than any other state. These sites are the most heavily contaminated properties in the country, and are the areas that pose the greatest potential risk to public health and the environment. These sites are poisoning nearby residents, endangering the health of children, and thwarting economic development in communities across the country.
The Garfield Groundwater Contamination site consists of groundwater contamination from chromium originating from the E.C. Electroplating, Inc. property. EPA initiated removal action of tanks and soil contaminants in fall 2011 and it continued to May 2014. EPA has funding for the site through 2017, but not enough for remedial action to be completed.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=345,"Booker, Menendez, Pascrell, Pallone Announce Legislation to Hold Polluters Responsible for Cleanup of Superfund Sites",2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Cory Booker,B001288,www.booker.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Bill reinstates the excise tax on polluting industries to pay for the cleanup of New Jerseys most contaminated sites
December 14, 2015
GARFIELD, NJ Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-NJ) and U.S. Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Bill Pascrell, Jr. (NJ-09) were joined by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 2 Administrator Judith Enck at the Garfield Ground Water Superfund Site to announce the reintroduction of legislation in the Senate and House that would force industries responsible for contamination of Superfund sites to pay for their clean-up.
Far too many New Jerseyans are forced to suffer the health impacts and financial burdens of living in close proximity to severely contaminated sites, said Sen. Booker. Its simply unacceptable that communities like Garfield have to languish in uncertainty while Congress fails to address the shortfalls in the Superfund cleanup program. We must remain committed to continuing Senator Lautenbergs legacy of advocating for the well-being of every single New Jerseyan and their right to live in a safe and healthy environment. This bill corrects an inexcusable injustice and places the onus on polluting industries to restore Superfund sites back to safe, healthy areas that can attract investment and economic development.
You make the mess, you clean it up. Its as simple as that, said Sen. Menendez. If you profited from polluting the environment then you should pay to clean up the mess you leave behind. Its time to restore the Superfund Trust Fund, make it solvent, make it effective, and hold polluting companies accountable for the damage they do to our environment. Its time to clean-up New Jerseys 113 Superfund sites, including the one here in Garfield, return the land back to the community, protect the health and safety of surrounding residents, and create jobs and economic development for New Jerseyans in the process.
Dealing with this contaminated plume has been long and arduous for the residents of Garfield. Remediating this orphan site must be a top priority, and the federal government must dedicate resources to continue the work,"" said Rep. Pascrell. ""I am committed to the Superfund Polluter Pays Act to make sure taxpayers dont have to pick up the check for polluters - it should be their cost to bear.""
The American taxpayer should not be paying for the mistakes of corporate polluters,"" said Congressman Pallone, the House sponsor of the companion bill. There are Superfund sites in New Jersey and across the country that EPA would be able to clean up if not for the inadequate funding. The Superfund Polluter Pays Act will replenish the necessary funds by holding corporations accountable for their mistakes and environmental degradation. Congress must pass this legislation to protect the American taxpayer and ensure that the industries polluting our land and water are responsible for the cleanup of these sites.
The federal Superfund is running on fumes, which has real implications for the people of New Jersey. It is important to reinstate the lapsed Superfund fees as soon as possible, said Judith A. Enck, Regional Administrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The Superfund Polluter Pays Restoration Act of 2014 reinstates the excise tax on polluting industries to pay for the cleanup of Superfund sites, relieving taxpayers of the expense. It also expands the definition of crude oil in order to make oil from tar sands and shale subject to the excise tax. Additionally, it makes funds available to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on an ongoing basis, not subject to annual appropriations.
Last year, as the Chairman of the Oversight Subcommittee on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, Sen. Booker chaired a hearing on the need for increased funding for EPAs Superfund program. Then-Garfield Mayor and current Councilman Joseph Delaney testified at the hearing to discuss the urgent need for increased federal funding to clean up Superfund sites in communities like Garfield.
Following the hearing, Sen. Booker and Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) requested a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on the downward funding trend and its impact on the effectiveness of the program. The report, released this fall, shows that while the number of Superfund sites increased between 1999 (1,054) and 2013 (1,158), funding for cleanups has continued to decline.
New Jersey has 113 Superfund sites on the National Priority List more than any other state. These sites are the most heavily contaminated properties in the country, and are the areas that pose the greatest potential risk to public health and the environment. These sites are poisoning nearby residents, endangering the health of children, and thwarting economic development in communities across the country.
The Garfield Groundwater Contamination site consists of groundwater contamination from chromium originating from the E.C. Electroplating, Inc. property. EPA initiated removal action of tanks and soil contaminants in fall 2011 and it continued to May 2014. EPA has funding for the site through 2017, but not enough for remedial action to be completed.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/in-the-news/bill-by-nj-senators-would-require-contaminating-industries-to-pay-for-cleanup-of-superfunds,Bill By NJ Senators Would Require Contaminating Industries To Pay For Cleanup Of Superfunds,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Bill By NJ Senators Would Require Contaminating Industries To Pay For Cleanup Of Superfunds
Bill By NJ Senators Would Require Contaminating Industries To Pay For Cleanup Of Superfunds
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Monday, December 14, 2015
New Jerseys U.S. senators say theyre introducing legislation that would again force industriesresponsible for contamination to pay for the cleanup at those sites.
New Jersey has about 114 superfund sites, and 50 percent of residents live within 3 miles of one, WCBS 880s Kelly Waldron reported. That percentage is higher than any other state in the nation, according to Sen. Bob Menendez, who says the problem is that the cost for cleanup is often falling on the taxpayers.
It just seems to me fundamentally wrong, Menendez said during Mondays announcement at a groundwater contamination site in Garfield where cleanup was never completed.
...Continue reading article here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/in-the-news/bills-seek-revived-superfund-tax-to-pay-for-polluted-sites,Bills seek revived Superfund tax to pay for polluted sites,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Bills seek revived Superfund tax to pay for polluted sites
Bills seek revived Superfund tax to pay for polluted sites
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Monday, December 14, 2015
Some New Jersey congressmen want to revive a tax to pay for cleaning up polluted sites.
Sens. Cory Booker and Bob Menendez and Reps. Frank Pallone Jr. and Bill Pascrell spoke Monday at a former industrial site in Garfield.
The Democrats have proposed legislation in the House and Senate they say will ensure polluting companies and not taxpayers foot the bill for cleaning up polluted sites.
New Jersey has more than 100 such Superfund sites, the most of any state in the nation.
...Continue reading article here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/in-the-news/lawmakers-call-for-fully-funded-superfund-program,Lawmakers Call for Fully Funded ‘Superfund’ Program,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Lawmakers Call for Fully Funded Superfund Program
Lawmakers Call for Fully Funded Superfund Program
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Monday, December 14, 2015
By:
David Cruz
Democratic lawmakers gathered at the site of the old E.C. Electroplating factory in Garfield to A. celebrate the successful start to remediation of this superfund site and B. call for a more stable funding source for the federal program to cover so-called orphan sites, like this one.
When the Superfund program was created back in 1980, funding for the orphaned sites came from a diverse array of sources, including, and importantly, taxes collected on crude oil and certain chemicals, noted Sen. Cory Booker. However, the tax program for the superfund site expired 20 years ago in 1995.
Meaning that the cost for cleanup of sites like this one E C went out of business more than decade ago falls to taxpayers. So Booker and Senator Bob Menendez, along with House members Bill Pascrell and Frank Pallone will introduce The Superfund Polluter Pays Restoration Act, which would reinstate the excize tax on polluting industries and give the EPA ongoing funding no subject to annual appropriations.
It just seems to me fundamentally wrong that the taxpayers have to pay for the companies that polluted and left a legacy of failure behind for everybody else to clean up, added Sen. Bob Menendez, and everybody else to pay, instead of those who created the pollution in the first pace.
...Continue reading article here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/in-the-news/nj-legislators-push-to-restore-superfund-money,N.J. legislators push to restore Superfund money,2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"N.J. legislators push to restore Superfund money
N.J. legislators push to restore Superfund money
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Monday, December 14, 2015
By:
Myles Ma
Cancer-causing chromium has been leaching into the soil near the site of the former E.C. Electroplating plant on Clark Street since 1983. The plant stopped operating in 2009. The federal Environmental Protection Agency started removing tanks and soil in 2011, but doesn't have the money to finish the job.
Some New Jersey legislators hope to change that. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez, as well as Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. and Bill Pascrell, Jr. , announced Monday they would reintroduce legislation that would restore a tax on polluters to pay for the cleanup of Superfund sites like the E.C. Electroplating plant.
...Continue reading article here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/in-the-news/nj-senators-congressmen-push-superfund-site-cleanup,"NJ Senators, Congressmen Push Superfund Site Cleanup",2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"NJ Senators, Congressmen Push Superfund Site Cleanup
NJ Senators, Congressmen Push Superfund Site Cleanup
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Monday, December 14, 2015
By:
Alyana Alfaro
What is now a nondescript paved lot on Clark Street in Garfield was once the site of the E.C. Electroplating plant. In 1983, a chemical storage tank failure dumped three tons of carcinogenic chromium into the ground, leaving some residents unable to enter their basements even to this day. While the site has made significant progressthe building was torn down and 14 feet of contaminated soil was replaced with clean soil and then paved overthe fight still isnt over as the EPA fights to resolve groundwater issues caused by the more than 30-year-old spill and subsequent environmental damage.
Funding for cleanup at the Garfield Groundwater Contamination site is only secured until 2017. Remediation will not be completed unless an alternate funding source can be secured.
On Monday, Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez, Congressmen Bill Pascrell (D-8) and Frank Pallone (D-6) and local administrators gathered at the site to announce the reintroduction of legislation in both the Senate and the House that would require the industries that contaminated Superfund sites to fund cleanup.
You make the mess, you clean in up. Its as simple as that, Menendez said from within the gated area that blocks the hundreds of homes in the neighborhood from the former site of E.C. Electroplating. If you profited from polluting the environment then you should pay to clean up the mess you leave behind.
...Continue reading article here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-pascrell-pallone-announce-legislation-to-hold-polluters-responsible-for-cleanup-of-superfund-sites,"Menendez, Booker, Pascrell, Pallone Announce Legislation to Hold Polluters Responsible for Cleanup of Superfund Sites",2015-12-14,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez, Booker, Pascrell, Pallone Announce Legislation to Hold Polluters Responsible for Cleanup of Superfund Sites
Menendez, Booker, Pascrell, Pallone Announce Legislation to Hold Polluters Responsible for Cleanup of Superfund Sites
Bill reinstates the excise tax on polluting industries to pay for the cleanup of New Jerseys most contaminated sites
Monday, December 14, 2015
GARFIELD, NJ Today, U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-NJ) and U.S. Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Bill Pascrell, Jr. (NJ-09) were joined by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 2 Administrator Judith Enck at the Garfield Ground Water Superfund Site to announce the reintroduction of legislation in the Senate and House that would force industries responsible for contamination of Superfund sites to pay for their clean-up.
You make the mess, you clean it up. Its as simple as that, said Sen. Menendez. If you profited from polluting the environment then you should pay to clean up the mess you leave behind. Its time to restore the Superfund Trust Fund, make it solvent, make it effective, and hold polluting companies accountable for the damage they do to our environment. Its time to clean-up New Jerseys 113 Superfund sites, including the one here in Garfield, return the land back to the community, protect the health and safety of surrounding residents, and create jobs and economic development for New Jerseyans in the process.
Far too many New Jerseyans are forced to suffer the health impacts and financial burdens of living in close proximity to severely contaminated sites, said Sen. Booker. Its simply unacceptable that communities like Garfield have to languish in uncertainty while Congress fails to address the shortfalls in the Superfund cleanup program. We must remain committed to continuing Senator Lautenbergs legacy of advocating for the well-being of every single New Jerseyan and their right to live in a safe and healthy environment. This bill corrects an inexcusable injustice and places the onus on polluting industries to restore Superfund sites back to safe, healthy areas that can attract investment and economic development.
Dealing with this contaminated plume has been long and arduous for the residents of Garfield. Remediating this orphan site must be a top priority, and the federal government must dedicate resources to continue the work,"" said Rep. Pascrell. ""I am committed to the Superfund Polluter Pays Act to make sure taxpayers dont have to pick up the check for polluters - it should be their cost to bear.""
The American taxpayer should not be paying for the mistakes of corporate polluters,"" said Congressman Pallone, the House sponsor of the companion bill. There are Superfund sites in New Jersey and across the country that EPA would be able to clean up if not for the inadequate funding. The Superfund Polluter Pays Act will replenish the necessary funds by holding corporations accountable for their mistakes and environmental degradation. Congress must pass this legislation to protect the American taxpayer and ensure that the industries polluting our land and water are responsible for the cleanup of these sites.
The federal Superfund is running on fumes, which has real implications for the people of New Jersey. It is important to reinstate the lapsed Superfund fees as soon as possible, said Judith A. Enck, Regional Administrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The Superfund Polluter Pays Restoration Act of 2014 reinstates the excise tax on polluting industries to pay for the cleanup of Superfund sites, relieving taxpayers of the expense. It also expands the definition of crude oil in order to make oil from tar sands and shale subject to the excise tax. Additionally, it makes funds available to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on an ongoing basis, not subject to annual appropriations.
Last year, as the Chairman of the Oversight Subcommittee on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, Sen. Booker chaired a hearing on the need for increased funding for EPAs Superfund program. Then-Garfield Mayor and current Councilman Joseph Delaney testified at the hearing to discuss the urgent need for increased federal funding to clean up Superfund sites in communities like Garfield.
Following the hearing, Sen. Booker and Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) requested a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on the downward funding trend and its impact on the effectiveness of the program. The report, released this fall, shows that while the number of Superfund sites increased between 1999 (1,054) and 2013 (1,158), funding for cleanups has continued to decline.
New Jersey has 113 Superfund sites on the National Priority List more than any other state. These sites are the most heavily contaminated properties in the country, and are the areas that pose the greatest potential risk to public health and the environment. These sites are poisoning nearby residents, endangering the health of children, and thwarting economic development in communities across the country.
The Garfield Groundwater Contamination site consists of groundwater contamination from chromium originating from the E.C. Electroplating, Inc. property. EPA initiated removal action of tanks and soil contaminants in fall 2011 and it continued to May 2014. EPA has funding for the site through 2017, but not enough for remedial action to be completed.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lance.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lance-knocks-out-internet-access-tax,Lance Knocks Out Internet Access Tax,2015-12-11,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Leonard Lance,L000567,lance.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.--- Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-07), member of the Energy and Commerce Communications & Technology Subcommittee, today joined a strong bipartisan House majority in passing a permanent extension of the Internet Tax Freedom Act forever forbidding states and localities from taxing customers for access to the Internet.
Taxing Internet access punishes the student working on an assignment, the job seeker posting a resume and everyday people accessing e-mail and other online activity, said Lance. Taxing access to the Internet will needlessly stifle economic activity. The heavy hand of government does not tax customers for window shopping and visiting stores. Enactment of a permanent moratorium on Internet access taxes will allow American consumersand small businesses to continue to thrive in the digital economy.
The Permanent Internet Tax Freedom Act passed as part of H.R. 644, the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act, and permanently renews the ban on Internet access taxes. If not renewed, consumers could see Internet access taxes imposed by many jurisdictions eager to raise revenue from the lapsed statute.
A tax on internet access would burden the millions of Americans who rely on the Internet every day. Americans must be assured they will never be taxed just for going online, concluded Lance.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://sires.house.gov/media-center/washington-reviews/washington-review-december-11-2015,"Washington Review, December 11, 2015",2015-12-11,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"Representing the 8th District in Washington this week, I had several meetings, worked on important legislation, and attended a Western Hemisphere Subcommittee hearing.
Meetings
I had several meetings this week on issues concerning my work on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Emanuel Gonzalez-Revilla, the Ambassador of Panama, visited my office to discuss how we can further security and commercial relations between Panama and the United States. We spoke about continued cooperation between our countries on policies targeting drug-trafficking in the United States and Central America.
I also met with members of CAMTEX, a coalition of trade associations representing the Central American-Dominican Republic textile industry. We discussed textile industry concerns regarding the impact the Trans-Pacific Partnership would have on existing trade relationships with the United States.
Additionally, I joined with some of my fellow Members of Congress to meet with Danilo Maldonado Machado, known as El Sexto. He is a Cuban artist, activist, and recently released political prisoner. El Sexto was incarcerated for 10 months without trial for artwork that criticized the Castro Regime. We were able to speak about his experiences in Cuba and the United States and view some of his art.
Legislation
Last month, I introduced H.Res. 536, condemning attacks on press freedoms in the Western Hemisphere. This week, the House Foreign Affairs Committee unanimously passed H.Res. 536. This resolution is a tool to spread awareness about the violations of freedom of expression that occur much too frequently in the region. It also urges the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Department of State to work with journalists in closed societies to promote a free press. It is important to recognize that democratic values cannot be achieved while opposing opinions are being censored and free speech is being stifled. Freedom of expression is the keystone of any democracy and a quality that sets our nation apart from others who do not tolerate diverse views or criticism. I am proud to sponsor this bipartisan legislation and look forward to working with my colleagues on bringing it for a vote on the Floor of the House of Representatives.
Western Hemisphere Subcommittee
This week, I attended the Subcommittee on the Western Hemispheres year in review hearing: U.S. Policy Toward a Changing Western Hemisphere. Multiple elections have been held in the region and the results are affecting real change as opposition parties were elected in a number of countries including Venezuela and Argentina. These elections could be part of a shift away from oppressive policies towards a more progressive and open society. While all governments in the Western Hemisphere, with the exception of Cuba, are formally elected democracies, there are still considerable challenges to true democratic rule. Several countries have been affected by corruption scandals, instability, social turmoil, and economic crisis. Drug trafficking and mass migration, as people flee violence and oppressive regimes, continue to strain the resources of countries that do not have the infrastructure to resolve these regional issues. We must remain committed to addressing these problems and improving relations with our neighbors in the Western Hemisphere.
Superstorm Sandy Relief
Recently, Congress unanimously passed H.R. 208, the RISE After Disaster Act of 2015, to help victims of Superstorm Sandy rebuild their homes and businesses. As required by H.R. 208, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has reopened the application period for victims seeking financial assistance in the form of a low-interest disaster loan. Homeowners can receive loans of up to $40,000 to replace damaged or lost items, and as much as $200,000 to rebuild and repair their homes. Nonprofits and business owners can receive up to $2 million to repair or replace assets. Applications are due by December 1, 2016 and are available online using the Electronic Loan Application on SBAs website at: https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. For more information contact the SBA Customer Service Center at (800)659-2955 or via email at: disastercustomerservice@sba.gov .
Thank you for reading the Washington Review. For regular updates, you may stay in touch by leaving comments on my Facebook, Twitter, and website.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398628,"***On Human Rights Day***Smith Urges Visa Ban Targeting Chinese Officials Complicit in Forced Abortions",2015-12-10,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04) and Senator Marco Rubio (FL), the Chair and Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), sent a letter today to President Obama asking him to enforce existing U.S. law and implement visa bans against Chinese officials complicit in the brutal enforcement of forced abortions or forced sterilizations.
Smith and Rubio said that there has been a glaring lack of implementation of visa ban legislation and requested that the President provide a roadmap to ensure that [the] law is faithfully implemented.Click here to read the letter.
President Obama has not once spoken out against Chinas coercive population control policies, though it would have been widely applauded by the Chinese people who deeply hate the policy, said Smith. This issue is not one of pro-life vs. pro-choice, but of violence carried out against women and couples by officials of Chinas Family Planning Commission and sanctioned by Chinese government policy.For more than three decades, Chinese officials have carried out massive crimes against humanity, condemning millions of Chinese woman and girls to abortion, infanticide, abandonment, or human trafficking.Not using existing law is a gross failure of the Obama administration.
Congressman Smith authored the Admiral Nance and Meg Donovan Foreign Relations Authorization Act of 2000 and 2001 (Public Law 106-113) which gave both the Obama and Bush administrations the power to deny U.S. entry visas to Chinese officials complicit in forced abortion, forced sterilization, and extensive intrusions into family life. This authority has rarely been used.
At a CECC hearing held last week, Members of Congress learned that police state population control efforts continued, despite the October 2015 announcements by the Communist Party that married Chinese couples may be allowed to have two children.One witness recounted how her husbands government job was threatened unless she underwent an abortion, saying such threats remain commonplace in China.She is currently living in hiding until her child is born.Another witness testified to an extensive system of monitoring and control by Chinas Family Planning Commission which still coercively enforces birth restrictions.
After the hearing, Smith and Rubio sent a letter to Secretary of State John Kerry asking for information about the State Departments implementation of the Girls Count Act, which was passed in Congress with broad bipartisan support and signed into law by President Obama on June 12, 2015. The law would make the protection of children a priority, particularly the regarding the marginalization and exploitation of girls, by assisting China with birth registries and a variety of programs intended to raise the legal and financial status of girls in order to help address the cultural and financial rationale for sex-selective abortionsa massive problem in China, where an estimated 40 million girls are missing from the population because birth restriction policies lead Chinese families to abort the girl child. Click here to read the letter to Secretary Kerry.
On Human Rights Day we must remember our responsibility to protect the most vulnerable. There is existing U.S. law that can help protect Chinese woman and children from the violence of Chinas draconian population control policies, but the law is not being implemented by the Obama Administration, said Smith.Sanctioning Chinese officials who brutally carry out Chinas population control policies will send a clear signal that the international community condemns forced abortion and sterilizations and that no one responsible for these horrific practices will ever benefit from access to the United States.
The bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC) chaired by Smith and co-chaired by Senator Rubio recently released its 2015 Annual Report, which shows that Chinese provincial governments continued to coercively enforce birth restrictions and monitor family size in the past year. The report also showed that population control policies created a sex ratio imbalance resulting in the birth of significantly more males, millions of whom will be unable to find wives.The severe imbalance drives regional human trafficking throughout Asia for the purposes of forced marriage and sexual exploitation. The CECC Annual Report can be found at www.cecc.gov.
The CECC consists of nine bi-partisan Senators, eight bi-partisan Members of the House of Representatives, and five senior Administration officials appointed by the President. The Annual Report was approved unanimously by all of the CECCs members.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lance.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lance-letter-to-the-president-postpone-any-iran-sanction-relief,Lance To President: Tehrans Ballistic Missile Tests Violates Nuke Deal,2015-12-10,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Leonard Lance,L000567,lance.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. --- Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-07) sent aletterto President Barack Obama today calling for postponement of any sanction relief by the United States following reports that Iran carried out another test of a new medium range ballistic missile capable of delivering a nuclear warhead. Lance called on the United Nations to investigate these incidences and for the Joint Comprehensive Plan ofAction (JCPOA) to be put on hold until the world community knows the facts behind the missile launches.
Moving forward with the implementation of the JCPOA and failing to hold Iran accountable to its global obligations will only invite more violations from Tehran and potentially endanger the national security of United States and its allies, wrote Lance in his letter.
Lance, who co-chairs the House Republican Israel Caucus, voted against the nuclear deal with Iran known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) citing Irans long history of antagonism, human rights abuses and ties to global terrorism. Lance also raised concerns about secret side agreements worked outside of public scrutiny and billions of dollars in sanction relief before Iran meets a single obligation. These ballistic missile tests only further question Irans sincerity to the deal negotiated by the Obama Administration.
In light of these blatant Iranian transgressions I urge you to delay further implementation of the JCPOA and postpone any sanction relief until the United Nations investigates these violations, Lance emphasized.
Letter text:
December 10, 2015
The Honorable Barack Obama
President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
On November 21, 2015 Iran reportedly carried out a test of a new medium range ballistic missile capable of delivering a nuclear warhead. This launch comes more than a month after a well-publicized firsttest of a ballistic missile on October 10, 2015.
These actions are in clear violation of United Nations Security Council-passed resolutions 2231 and 1929 that compel Iran to refrain from any work on ballistic missiles foreight years and ban the Islamic Republic from conducting all ballistic missile tests. They also come on the heels of a recent report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that found Iran had been working on nuclear weapons technology until at least 2009.
Irans behavior is not only in direct contravention of two UN resolutions but also Measure #28 of the Joint Comprehensive Plan ofAction (JCPOA), which states clearly that Iran and the E3/EU+3 will commit toimplementing the JCPOA ingood faith and in a constructive atmosphere, based on mutual respect, and to refrain from any action inconsistent with the letter, spirit and intent of this JCPOAthat would undermine its successful implementation.
In light of these blatant Iranian transgressions I urge you to delay further implementation of the JCPOA and postpone any sanction relief until the United Nations investigates these violations.
Moving forward with the implementation of the JCPOA and failing to hold Iran accountable to its global obligations will only invite more violations from Tehran and potentially endanger the national security of United States and its allies.
Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
Leonard Lance
Member of Congress
Seventh District, New Jersey",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://sires.house.gov/media-center/did-you-know/sandy-disaster-loans,U.S. Small Business Administration Reopens Application Period for Superstorm Sandy Victims Seeking Financial Assistance,2015-12-10,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"Did you know that victims of Superstorm Sandy who need more cash to rebuild their home or business can now apply for a low-interest disaster loan? Due to a recently passed law, which was passed unanimously by Congress, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has reopened the application period for Superstorm Sandy victims seeking financial assistance. Homeowners can receive loans of up to $200,000 to repair or rebuild their homes, and as much as $40,000 more to replace damaged or lost items. Nonprofit organizations and business owners can get up to $2 million to repair or replace assets. The filing deadline to submit applications is December 1, 2016.
Applications are available online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBAs secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Additional details on the locations of recovery centers and the loan application process can be obtained by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or by sending an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
Victims may also visit a New Jersey SBAcenterto apply for SBA low-interest disaster loan. No appointment is necessary.
Bergen County
Bergen Co. Office of Emergency Management
285 Campgaw Road
Mahwah, NJ 07430
Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday Friday
Essex County
Essex County Hall of Records
Business Resource Center, Room 447
465 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd
Newark, NJ 07102
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday Friday
Hudson County
Hudson County Plaza Building
Hudson Co. Minority & Women Business Enterprise
257 Cornelison Avenue, Room 2106
Jersey City, NJ 07302
Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday Friday
Union County
Union County Administration Building
2nd Floor, Department of Human Services Suite
10 Elizabethtown Plaza
Elizabeth, NJ 07202
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday - Friday",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=342,"BOOKER, BOXER PRAISE FBI ANNOUNCEMENT OF REFORMS TO DATA COLLECTION SYSTEM",2015-12-10,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Cory Booker,B001288,www.booker.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Senators Also Urge FBI to Ensure that Local Law Enforcement Reports Complete and Accurate Data on Violent Encounters Between Police and Members of the Public
December 10, 2015
Washington, D.C. - U.S. Sens. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Barbara Boxer (D-CA) today sent a letter to FBI Director James Comey praising the announcement this week that the FBI will reform its data collection system to better track violent encounters between police and members of the public.
""The first step toward fixing a problem is to understand the full extent of it - and we know that improving data collection will strengthen accountability and help save lives,"" Senators Booker and Boxer wrote in the letter. ""Moreover, it will aid our nation's leaders in crafting new policy to improve community-police relations.""
The Senators wrote that they were ""very encouraged"" that the agency plans to expand its data collection to go beyond fatal shootings and begin to track other incidents in which members of the public are killed or seriously injured in encounters with law enforcement, including through the use of stun guns, pepper spray and bodily force. According to the Washington Post, the FBI is also likely to begin tracking the race and gender of officers and suspects involved, the level of threat or danger the officer faced, and the types of weapons wielded by either party.
""This is a critical first step toward restoring public trust in our criminal justice system,"" the Senators wrote.
In June 2015, Senators Booker and Boxer introduced the Police Reporting of Information, Data and Evidence Act, or PRIDE Act - legislation that would require states to report to the U.S. Justice Department all incidents in which a police officer is involved in a shooting or where use of force by or against an officer results in serious bodily harm or death. Under the bill, the reports must include, at a minimum: the gender, race, ethnicity, and age of each individual who was shot, injured, or killed; the date, time, and location of the incident; the number of officers and number of civilians involved in the incident; whether the civilian was armed with a weapon; and the type of force used against the officer, the civilian, or both, including the types of weapons used.
Currently, there is no comprehensive database tracking police shootings and no mandated reporting of use-of-force incidents by or against an officer that results in serious bodily harm or death.The PRIDE Act would correct this gaping hole in our national data collection systems, giving government officials, stakeholders, and the public the reliable information needed to develop best practices and improve accountability and transparency.
The Senators wrote, ""As you move forward with these reforms, we also urge you to ensure that local law enforcement agencies report complete and accurate data so that the public and policymakers know the full extent of these tragic incidents.""
The full text of the letter to Director Comey is below:
December 10, 2015
Director James B. ComeyFederal Bureau of Investigation935 Pennsylvania Avenue, NWWashington, D.C. 20535
Dear Director Comey:
We are very encouraged by your recent announcement that the FBI will reform its data collection system to better track violent encounters between police and members of the public.This is a critical first step toward restoring public trust in our criminal justice system.
As you have acknowledged previously, the current lack of accurate information about police-involved shootings and other incidents causing harm or death is unacceptable. The first step toward fixing a problem is to understand the full extent of it-and we know that improving data collection will strengthen accountability and help save lives. Moreover, it will aid our nation's leaders in crafting new policy to improve community-police relations.
As you know, we have authored legislation-the Police Reporting of Information, Data and Evidence Act, or PRIDE Act-that would require law enforcement agencies nationwide to report to the United States Department of Justice all incidents in which an officer is involved in a shooting or where use of force by or against an officer results in serious bodily harm or death.
As you move forward with these reforms, we also urge you to ensure that local law enforcement agencies report complete and accurate data so that the public and policymakers know the full extent of these tragic incidents.
Justice and accountability go hand in hand, but they both depend upon reliable data. We thank you for your commitment to shining a much-needed spotlight on this critical issue so that we can prevent these tragedies in the future.
Sincerely,
Senator Cory A. BookerUnited States Senator
Senator Barbara BoxerUnited States Senator
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/in-the-news/9/11-health-bill-held-up-over-price-tag,9/11 health bill held up over price tag,2015-12-10,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"9/11 health bill held up over price tag
9/11 health bill held up over price tag
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Thursday, December 10, 2015
By:
Stephanie Condon
After facing intense public pressure from comedian Jon Stewart, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Kentucky, promised earlier this week to fully fund health care benefits for 9/11 first responders. The legislation, however, is still held up over lawmakers' disagreement over whether the bill needs to be paid for.
""The men and women who put their lives on the line... are waiting for Congress to act because we supposedly have to pay for the way in which we take care of their health care,"" Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, lamented on the Senate floor Wednesday. ""None of us should leave Washington for the holidays without passing this bill.""
After years of advocacy work on behalf of first responders, Congress finally passed the Zadroga Act in 2010 to assist first responders who became sick from working at Ground Zero. However, the health care provision of that bill expired in September and will run out of funding early next year.
Lawmakers in the Senate have promised that an extension of the program will be included in an omnibus bill spending bill currently under negotiation. While budget hawks have expressed concern about paying for it, Menendez pointed out that a group of senators is simultaneously negotiating a bill that would extend around $800 billion in tax breaks (for instance, it would extend write-offs for business investments and repeal a specific tax in the Affordable Care Act) and that would go unpaid for.
""I don't understand how the rules don't apply to large corporations that will reap billions of dollars, but somehow those rules are asserted when we are trying to take care of the men and women who responded on that fateful day,"" Menendez said. ""We should accept our profound, collective responsibility -- not charity -- but responsibility to act on this legislation.""
...Continue reading article here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/in-the-news/menendez-to-senate-dont-leave-without-passing-aid-for-9/11-first-responders-,Menendez to Senate: Don't leave without passing aid for 9/11 first responders,2015-12-10,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez to Senate: Don't leave without passing aid for 9/11 first responders
Menendez to Senate: Don't leave without passing aid for 9/11 first responders
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Thursday, December 10, 2015
By:
Jonathan D. Salant
U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez took to the Senate floor on Wednesday to urge his colleagues not to begin their holiday recess without renewing legislation that provides medical coverage and compensation to first responders injured in the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
The James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act is named for a North Arlington resident and New York City police officer who died of a respiratory disease attributed to him breathing in dust at the World Trade Center site after 9/11.
It provides treatment and economic compensation for police officers, firefighters and other first responders who contracted health problems, including respiratory diseases and cancer, after working at 9/11 sites. The original bill expired Sept. 30, but there is still money available.
""It is unconscionable that we would go home to celebrate with our families, without doing everything we can to make sure that we send a clear and unambiguous message to our first responders, in the name of New Jersey's Jim Zadroga, that we will never forget what they did for our fellow citizens, for this nation, on that day that changed the world,"" said Menendez (D-N.J.).
...Continue reading article here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398617,"Christian & Yezidi Genocide in Syrian, Iraq Focus of House Hearing",2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"Several experts testifying on Capitol Hill today labeled the brutal campaign against Christians, Yezidis and others in Syria and Iraq genocide and called on the Obama Administration to declare it as such and provide the greater humanitarian actions and other relief genocide demands.
U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04), chairman of the house panel that oversees global human rights said todays hearing focused on the plight of persecuted religious minorities in Syria and Iraq, which constitutes genocide, and the failure of much of the international community to live up to their pledges of humanitarian assistancefactors which push refugees to Europe and beyond. He said witnesses cited widespread violence targeting religious minorities such as Christians and Yezidis (a non-Islamic religious minority) in territory controlled by ISIS in Syria and Iraq.
Each day, our newspapers, magazines, radios and television screens are filled with images of people fleeing territory controlled by the Islamic jihadist group known as the Islamic State of al-Sham, or ISIS, said Smith at the House hearing he chaired of the Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights and International Organizations. More than half of the 635,000 refugees an estimated 53 percent in Europe are from Syria alone, according to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees or UNHCR, Smith said. The crisis has become the largest displacement crisis in the world, with 3.8 million people having fled to Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey, Iraq and Egypt, in addition to those internally displaced. Click here to read his opening remarks.
Smith noted that while violence plays a major role in the impetus of Syrians to leave their homes, the UNHCR has said perhaps the main trigger for flight is the humanitarian funding shortfall. In recent months, for example, the World Food Programme (WFP) cut its program by 30 percent, and the current Syrian Regional Refugee and Resilience Plan for 2015 is only 41 percent funded. The UNHCR expects to receive just 47 percent of the funding it needs for Syria over the next year.
Testifying at the hearing were: Gregory Stanton, President of Genocide Watch; Bishop Francis Kalabat, Chaldean Catholic Eparchy of Saint Thomas the Apostle of Detroit, who recently visited the area; Mirza Ismail, Chairman of the Yezidi Human Rights Organization International, who also recently visited the area; Carl A. Anderson, Supreme Knight, Knights of Columbus, which has been raising funds to meet the humanitarian needs of targeted minorities in ISIS territory; and Noah Gottschalk, Senior Policy Advisor for Humanitarian Response at Oxfam America. After the hearing their testimonies can be found by clicking here.
President Stanton stated in his testimony entitled Weak Words Are Not Enough, that Failure to call ISIS mass murder of Christians, Muslims, and other groups in addition to Yazidis by its proper name genocide would be an act of denial as grave as U.S. refusal to recognize the Rwandan genocide in 1994. He also said the crimes of ISIS are the greatest threat to civilization since Nazism and Stalinist and Maoist Communism. Like those movements, ISIS has a millenarian, utopian ideology that turns mass murder into an ideological duty, and worse, a religious virtue.
In his testimony, Bishop Kalabat testified that the thousands of displaced Christians whose plight has gone unrecognized by the Obama administration.
There are more than 150,000 Iraqi Christians who are now displaced in northern Iraq or are refugees in other countries such as Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey who are being victimized by the Obama administration in not recognizing their suffering, Kalabat said. There are countless Christian villages in Syria who have been taken over by ISIS and have encountered genocide and the Obama administration refuses to recognize their plight. Again I say, shame on you.
Chairman Ismail said he came to Congress to seek support to prevent the annihilation by ISIS of his people, the Yezidis, and of the Chaldo-Assyrian Christians in Iraq and Syria.
We are an ancient and proud people from the heart of Mesopotamia, the birth place of civilization and the birth place of many of the worlds religions, Ismail said. And here we are today, in 2015, on the verge of annihilation. In response to our suffering, around the World there is profound, obscene silence. We Yezidis are considered Infidels in the eyes of Muslims, and so they are encouraged to kill, rape, enslave, and convert us.
Supreme Knight Anderson said Syrian Christians and other vulnerable minorities are disproportionately excluded from the U.S. Syrian Refugee Resettlement Program due to reliance on a functionally discriminatory UN program.
Christians fear taking shelter in the camps of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) because of religiously motivated violence and intimidation inside the camps, Anderson said. The U.S. State Department publicly acknowledge that genocide is taking place against the Christian communities of Iraq and Syria, including in its anticipated pending statement on genocide that, according to reports, refers only to Ninevehs Yazidi community.
The United States is rightly viewed as the worlds leading defender of vulnerable minorities, and it is critically important that the State Department consider the best available evidence before issuing a statement that would exclude Christians, said Anderson.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398624,"China Commission Chair, Human Rights Advocates Hold Press Conf.:Five Years After Winning Nobel Peace Prize, Liu Xiaobo Remains Imprisoned",2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Christopher Smith,S000522,chrissmith.house.gov,,,legacy,"On the eve of Human Rights Day, Congressman Smith and Chinese human rights leaders gathered to call for the release of Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Liu Xiaobo, who remains in prison and whose wife, Liu Xia, remains detained and isolated in arbitrary detention.
An empty chair at the press conference in the House Rayburn Building symbolized Lius absence. It was reminiscent of an empty chair that was also present at the ceremony where Liu Xiaobo was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize 2010 in Oslo, Norway.
China is in a race to the bottom with North Korea for the title of worlds worst violators of human rights,said U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04), the Chairman of the U.S. Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), Congressman Chris Smith. The hope that an economically prosperous and rising China would embrace political reform and human rights has been destroyed. It is time for a new approach. We will not forget Liu Xiaobo or his wife. The CECC remains committed to seeking their release from confinement and detention. We will not forget them next year, or the year thereafterregardless of the circumstancesor how uncomfortable it makes the Chinese government. Click here to read Smith's opening statement.
Smith said that President Obama and his Administration has not done enough to secure Liu Xiaobos release: He is certainly not as clear and tough on the issue of political prisoners as he is on cyber-security issues or environmental issues with China, Smith said. That the President, a fellow Nobel Laureate, has been reluctant to raise these cases in publicand link them to better U.S.-China relationsis certainly perceived as weakness by Chinas leaders. Diplomatic efforts have not lead to Liu Xiaobos release, and the group asked that President Obama and other world leaders renew efforts to publically and privately seek the Lius release.
Sen. Marco Rubio, Co-Chair of the CECC, noted that this week marks the five-year anniversary of Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobos award of the Nobel Peace Prize.
The anniversary aptly coincides with International Human Rights Day when the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, to which China was not only a signatory but also an original drafter, Rubio said. Enshrined in the document are a variety of rights and protections to include freedom from arbitrary arrest, freedom of expression, freedom of religion and conscience and freedom of movement. Sadly these God-given rights remain elusive for millions of Chinese citizens including Liu, said Rubio.
Attending the press conference was:
Chen Guangcheng, Distinguished Fellow in Human Rights, Simon Center on Religion and the Constitution, Witherspoon Institute, and the Distinguished Visiting Fellow, Institute for Policy Research and Catholic Studies, Catholic University. Chen is a Chinese legal advocate and activist who escaped from China in 2012;
Fang Zheng, President, Chinese Democracy Education Foundation, the president of Chinese Democracy Education Foundation. He is a former student protester who was seriously injured during the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989. During the evacuation of the Square in the early morning of June 4, Fang was run over by a Peoples Liberation Army tank, which led to the amputation of both his legs.
Dr. Yang Jianli, President, Initiatives for China/ Citizen Power for China. Dr. Yang Jianli is a scholar and democracy activist internationally recognized for his efforts to promote democracy in China. He has been involved in the pro-democracy movement in China since the 1980s and was forced to flee China in 1989 after the Tiananmen Square massacre. In 2002, Dr. Yang returned to China to support the labor movement and was imprisoned by Chinese authorities for espionage and illegal entry. He was released in 2007.
The bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC) chaired by Smith and co-chaired by Senator Rubio recently released its 2015 Annual Report, which concludes that the government of President Xi Jinping has staged an extraordinary assault on the rule of law, human rights, ethnic minority groups, and civil society in recent years. The report also provides evidence that the Chinese government continues to coercively enforce birth restrictions and monitor family size in the past year. Chinas population control policies created a sex ratio imbalance resulting in the birth of significantly more males, millions of whom will be unable to find wives.The severe imbalance drives regional human trafficking throughout Asia for the purposes of forced marriage and sexual exploitation. The CECC Annual Report can be found at www.cecc.gov.
The CECC consists of nine bi-partisan Senators, eight bi-partisan Members of the House of Representatives, and five senior Administration officials appointed by the President. The Annual Report was approved unanimously by all of the CECCs members.
We must show leadership and resolve because only the U.S. has the power and prestige to stand up to Chinas intransigence, Smith said. The U.S. must not shy away from meeting with the Dalai Lama or other dissidents. We must use visa bans on Chinese officials who violate human rights. We need to connect Internet and press freedoms as both economic and human rights priorities. And we must demand, repeatedly and clearly, that the unconditional release of political prisoners is in the interest of better U.S.-China relations.
I believe that someday China will be free. Someday, the people of China will be able to enjoy all of their God-given rights. And a nation of free Chinese men and women will honor and celebrate Liu Xiaobo as a hero. He will be honored along with all others like him who have sacrificed so much, and so long, for freedom, Smith said.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://lance.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/lance-recognized-for-cancer-work,Lance Recognized for Cancer Work,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Leonard Lance,L000567,lance.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. --- Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-07) has been named a Leader in Cancer Prevention by The Prevent Cancer Foundation. The Prevent Cancer Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the mission of saving lives through cancer prevention and early detection. Its Leader in Cancer Prevention award recognizes contributions to cancer prevention and early detection through legislation, advocacy or education.
Cancer was the great public health challenge of the 20th century and countless people work every day toward a 21st century that is cancer free. The doctors, medical professionals, scientists and researchers, advocates and survivors and their loved ones are the heroes of cancer care. I am proud to be their voice in Washington and together we will continue these efforts until we find a cure, said Lance, who lost his mother 50 years ago to cancer.
Carolyn Aldig, President and Founder of the Prevent Cancer Foundation, praised Lance. Under Congressman Lances leadership, we have been able to create real change so fewer families face the challenges of cancer diagnoses or the devastation of losing loved ones to these diseases. The Congressional Leaders in Cancer Prevention have introduced and supported critical cancer prevention legislation, served as messengers to their communities and been strong champions of cancer research, funding, education and outreach.
The Prevent Cancer Foundations goal is to reduce mortality from all preventable cancers by encouraging healthy behaviors, making health education and prevention and early-detection services more accessible to all communities and advocating for prevention based research. The Foundation cited several Lance achievements for the award:
Passage of the 21st Century Cures Act legislation that creates a National Institute of Health Innovation Fund, opens the innovation pipeline enabling biomedical innovation to come to the market faster and streamlines the regulatory process.
Passage of the FDA Safety Over Sequestration Act legislation which exempts Food and Drug Administration user fees from sequestration and puts those resources back for the approval of drugs and medical devices.
Passage of the Recalcitrant Cancer Research Act legislation that requires the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to develop a long-term strategic plan for developing better treatments and potential cures for the deadliest of cancers, such as pancreatic and lung cancers.
Passage of the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act legislation that directs millions of dollars to support research into childhood cancer and other pediatric diseases and disorders.
Authoring the bipartisan Breast Cancer Patient Education Act a bill that will require that patients be informed of the availability and coverage of breast reconstruction and prostheses.
Authoring the bipartisan MODDERN Cures Act a bill that will update the drug evaluation process to encourage the discovery and development of new treatments for rare diseases and cancers.
Authoring the bipartisan Cancer Drug Coverage Parity Act a bill that ensures cancer patients affordable access to life-saving drug treatment.
Authoring the bipartisan Lymphedema Treatment Act a bill that will improve coverage for the treatment of lymphedema from any cause by allowing for coverage of compression supplies.
Founding the Congressional Life Science Caucus a caucus for lawmakers to advocate for issues important to the life science community.
Founding the Congressional Deadliest Cancers Caucus a caucus will raise awareness about the deadliest forms of cancers and advocate for research and other measures to increase survival.
Leading a bipartisan letter urging the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services to protect access to life-saving colorectal cancer screenings.
Leading a bipartisan effort to renew aid to 9/11 first responders and survivors reauthorizing the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act will provide medical treatment and compensation to first responders, rescue workers and survivors who have been sickened or injured at Ground Zero, the Pentagon and Shanksville.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/monitoring-station-be-installed-raritan-bay-federal-grant,Monitoring Station to be Installed in Raritan Bay with Federal Grant,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Frank Pallone,P000034,pallone.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced a monitoring station will be installed in Raritan Bay thanks to an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grant to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
I am glad to announce this grant to allow for closer monitoring of the wetlands of Raritan Bay, which will help protect the surrounding coastal communities, said Congressman Pallone. Healthy wetlands play an integral role in protecting against extreme weather effects of climate change, including flooding and storm surges. As we learned from Superstorm Sandy, we must act to mitigate the effects of the next storm, and this grant is an important step.
The project is made possible as part of a $393,700 EPA grant to DEP to improve the availability and accessibility of data on the health and condition of New Jerseys wetlands. The grant to DEP from EPA is part of a $1 million EPA grant for various wetland protection projects in New Jersey.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sires-resolution-condemning-attacks-on-press-freedoms-in-the-western,Sires Resolution Condemning Attacks on Press Freedoms in the Western Hemisphere Unanimously Passes in House Foreign Affairs Committee,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Albio Sires,S001165,sires.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) - Today, H.Res. 536, a resolution condemning attacks on press freedoms in the Western Hemisphere, introduced by Congressman Albio Sires, was successfully passed by the House Foreign Affairs Committee. H. Res. 536 was introduced with bipartisan support, with Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) serving as the lead Republican cosponsor.
""Freedom of expression is the keystone that holds any democracy together. As a child in Cuba, I witnessed the deterioration of democracy as the Castro regime took over the island and systematically destroyed all aspects of freedom of speech and expression. Being able to speak without censorship is a right that should never be stifled Working to preserve freedom of speech and pushing back against those who seek to quiet their dissenters should be a top priority when engaging with our neighbors in the region,""stated Congressman Sires.
H.Res 536 supports a free press in Latin America and the Caribbean by condemning violations of press freedom and violence against journalists, bloggers, and individuals exercising their right to freedom of speech and. It also urges countries in the region to implement the recommendations to Member States made by the Organization of American States Office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression. Lastly, this resolution urges the United States Agency for International Development and the Department of State to assist the media in closed societies to promote a free press.
""H. Res. 536 is an important tool to spread awareness about grave abuses against journalists and those seeking to express themselves freely in the Western Hemisphere. As the winds of change begin to sweep the region, it is now more important than ever for the United States to provide a voice to those democratic activists who seek nothing but a better future. Freedom of the press is a key ingredient for a healthy democracy, and I am proud to work closely with my friend and colleague, Albio Sires to defend democratic principles and fight the enemies of freedom,"" stated Rep. Ros-Lehtinen.
""I am proud to sponsor this legislation and grateful for the support of my colleagues in passing this resolution in committee. I look forward to working with my colleagues to bring H.Res. 536 for a vote on the House Floor,""said Rep. Sires.
H.Res. 536 was approved in the committee unanimously and now awaits floor action in the full House of Representatives.
Text of H.Res. 536 can be seen here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://macarthur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/macarthur-acts-protect-911-memorial-and-first-responders,MacArthur Acts to Protect 9/11 Memorial and First Responders,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Tom MacArthur,M001193,macarthur.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Congressman MacArthur today continued calls to protect and preserve the 9/11 memorial and reauthorize the James L. Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act.
MacArthur introduced The National 9/11 Memorial at the World Trade Center Act to support the 9/11 Memorial Foundation and guarantee the sacred site will always be a safe and free place of remembrance open to all.
On Saturday, Congressman MacArthur visited the 9/11 memorial at the World Trade Center in New York and spoke about his 9/11 legislation and continued calls to reauthorize the James L. Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. The Zadroga Act would reauthorize an expiring health care program that provides medical monitoring and treatment for 9/11 first responders and reauthorize a victims compensation fund for five years.
The tragic events of September 11, 2001, changed our lives forever, said Congressman MacArthur. Nearly 3,000 Americans lost their lives while thousands of first responders and law enforcement officials answered the call to save fellow Americans. A federal recognition for the 9/11 memorial will solidify its standing and recognize the endurance of the survivors, the bravery of those who risked their lives to save others, and the power of our free nation to overcome evil with good.
MacArthur continued, While we pledge to memorialize those we have lost, we must never forget the brave men and women who remain. Across the country, 9/11 responders and survivors are suffering from conditions caused by their exposure at Ground Zero and they deserve a fully-funded and permanent health compensation program.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://macarthur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/macarthur-proud-join-fight-veterans-healthcare,MacArthur Proud to Join Fight for Veterans Healthcare,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Republican,House,NJ,Tom MacArthur,M001193,macarthur.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Congressman Tom MacArthur today cosponsored legislation to give Americas veterans faster and better access to quality health care outside the problem-plagued Veterans Health Administration. The Veterans Freedom of Healthcare Act was introduced by Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-01) and has the supportof Republicans, Democrats, local veterans organizations and health care providers.
The Act would allow Americas heroes to use their VA benefits at the health care provider of their choice, like a doctor in their own town, instead of having to travel to a different city or state for an appointment.
Our veterans deserve access to quality care anytime, anywhere,"" said Congressman Tom MacArthur. ""Our current system limits veterans to particular hospitals or clinics and doesnt give our nations heroes the best care available. There are far too many veterans waiting months to be seen by a healthcare professional within the VA system and its an absolute travesty. This bill would give our veterans the choice to seek medical care outside of the VA system and improve access and quality for every individual that has served our nation. I am proud to join Congressman Norcross in the pursuit of bipartisan solutions to ensure South Jersey veterans have access to the high quality care they deserve.
Our veterans didnt wait to answer the call of duty to serve and protect our freedoms. They shouldnt have to wait for quality health care. They deserve the freedom to choose their own health care provider, said Rep. Donald Norcross. Many of these veterans didnt have the choice when it came to military service. Now, they deserve a choice. A choice of where they wish to go for health care, and when. And by the best caregivers America can provide. I share Congressman MacArthurs commitment to ensuring our heroes get the care theyve earned through their service to our country.
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https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=340,Booker Statement on Senate Passage of Education Reform Bill,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Cory Booker,B001288,www.booker.senate.gov,,,legacy,"After Opposing Senate Bill in July, Booker supports House-Senate compromise of Every Student Succeeds Act
December 9, 2015
Washington, DC U.S. Sen. Cory Booker today issued the following statement after the Senate voted on the reconciled version of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). On Monday, Booker announced his support for the education bill while joining Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) President Wendell Steinhauer on a conference call to urge the Senate to pass the legislation, which takes important steps to ensure that every student in our country has access to a high-quality public education.
Our youth are the most valuable natural resource we possess as a nation and we must do everything possible to invest in their success. I opposed an earlier version of this bill this summer, but support it today because the changes that have been made since reaffirm the federal governments commitment to supporting student, teacher and school success while moving us away from the broken No Child Left Behind era. After talking with New Jersey parents, teachers, and kids throughout the process of considering this legislation, its clear we need to reset the conversation about childhood education in this country, and this bill marks an important step forward.
I fought to ensure todays compromise included two of my amendments that improve teacher working conditions, and establish meaningful ways to support homeless and foster youth. The bill also includes important provisions I fought for that require states to develop a more comprehensive accountability system, while maintaining a focus on our nations most disadvantaged youth, which will help us raise the expectation that all kids should have an equal shot at a good education, regardless of where they live.
I want to thank Senators Alexander and Murray for shepherding through this important and balanced bill. We cannot succeed as a nation in an increasingly global, competitive economy if we leave genius on the sidelines. This legislation will help the next generation to succeed.
ESSA represents a reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act originally signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson in 1965. ESSA seeks to improve our nations public education system by replacing the14-year old No Child Left Behind law and providing states increased control over schools.
The Every Student Succeeds Act contains two amendments offered by Sen. Booker that provide essential information for teachers, policy makers and community groups to better supportour nations foster children and homeless youth and strengthens working conditions for teachers by asking school districts to conduct an assessment identifying opportunities to provide teachers with additional support for their long-term professional development.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=341,Booker Celebrates Bipartisan Pipeline Safety Bill Passage Out of Committee,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Cory Booker,B001288,www.booker.senate.gov,,,legacy,"SAFE PIPES Act Would Reauthorize PHMSA Through 2019
December 9, 2015
WASHINGTON, D.C. This afternoon, U.S. Sens. Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) applauded the Commerce Committees passage of bipartisan legislation to help ensure the safety of Americas pipeline network. The bill, known as the Securing Americas Future Energy: Protecting Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety (SAFE PIPES) Act, would reauthorize the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) through fiscal year (FY) 2019.
Senator Booker, ranking member on the Senate Surface Transportation Subcommittee, released the following statement:
Today marks a promising step forward in our efforts to prioritize pipeline safety. Americas existing pipeline infrastructure is an important part of our national energy transportation network. In New Jersey, close to thirty-five thousand miles of gas pipelines connect residents and their energy needs. The SAFE PIPES Act will implement important oversight and accountability measures, encourage the use of new technology, and help ensure safer communities in New Jersey and around the country. Im pleased to have worked with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to secure its passage out of Committee today.
Senator Fischer, chairman of the Senate Surface Transportation Subcommittee, released the following statement:
Todays passage of the SAFE PIPES Act out of the Commerce committee is a positive step on the way to ensuring the safety of our national pipeline infrastructure network. Americas pipelines transport liquid fuel and gas to homes, communities, critical energy and transportation infrastructure, and our military bases. Congress must provide aggressive oversight of pipeline safety, and I look forward to supporting this bipartisan, pro-safety legislation to reauthorize PHMSA on the Senate floor.
Senator Daines released the following statement:
The SAFE PIPES Act is an important step forward to improve the protection of pipeline river crossings, fill vacant inspector positions and facilitate communication between PHMSA and state agencies. This is a strong, bipartisan bill that will enhance pipeline safety, promote economic opportunity and help protect our environment. I appreciate Senators Fischer, Booker and Peters for working with me on this important legislation.
Senator Peters released the following statement:
Its taken five years and nearly $1 billion to clean up the last oil spill from a pipeline break in Michigan, and a similar spill in the Great Lakes would be devastating to our economy, environment and drinking water supply. Im proud to work with my Commerce Committee colleagues as we move forward with bipartisan legislation that will strengthen the safety of our nations pipelines and protect our communities and natural resources from the threat of a pipeline break.
The SAFE PIPES Act would reauthorize PHMSA from FY 2016 through FY 2019. Key provisions of the bill include:
Re-prioritizing and requiring PHMSA to complete outstanding mandates from the 2011 reauthorization bill.
Requiring PHMSA to prioritize statutory requirements for rulemaking over new rulemaking.
Requesting that PHMSA conduct an assessment of inspections process and Integrity Management programs for natural gas and liquid pipelines.
Encouraging PHMSA to investigate and report on advanced mapping technologies for pipeline networks.
Providing direct hire authority to the agency so PHMSA can address its staffing challenges.
Calling for minimum standards to ensure the safety of natural gas storage facilities.
Ensuring coordination and collaboration on research, development, and technology between PHMSA, industry, and public sector stakeholders.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/es/noticias-y-eventos/prensa/menndez-embiste-a-republicanos-por-bloquear-esfuerzos-para-combatir-crisis-econmica-en-puerto-rico,Menéndez Embiste a Republicanos por Bloquear Esfuerzos para Combatir Crisis Económica en Puerto Rico,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menndez Embiste a Republicanos por Bloquear Esfuerzos para Combatir Crisis Econmica en Puerto Rico
Menndez Embiste a Republicanos por Bloquear Esfuerzos para Combatir Crisis Econmica en Puerto Rico
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC El senador Bob Menndez (D-NJ) habl en el pleno del Senado despus que los Republicanos bloquearan una solicitud de consentimiento unnime que impidi una votacin sobre el Proyecto de Ley S.1774, Poyecto de Ley Para Uniformidad de Captulo 9 en Puerto Rico, el cual extendera protecciones de Captulo 9 del Cdigo de Quiebras de Estados Unido a Puerto Rico, ayudando a estabilizar y proteger los 3,5 millones de ciudadanos estadounidenses que viven en la isla.
""Mientras el Congreso pierde el tiempo, Puerto Rico sigue en llamas; y sera una vergenza si el Congreso sale de vacaciones y deja una catstrofe en vsperas para los 3,5 millones de ciudadanos americanos de Puerto Rico que han luchado y se han sacrificado por este pas.
Como Presidente del Equipo de Iniciativas Hispanas de los Demcratas del Senado y el nico demcrata latino en el Senado, Menndez ha estado ala vanguardia de la lucha para ayudar a enfrentar la crisis financiera en Puerto. l hacriticado varias veces la politiquera de los Republicanos sobre el tema, pidiendo que se ample las protecciones del Captulo 9 de quiebra a la isla, ypresentando propuestas legislativas para proporcionar tratamiento equitativo de crditos fiscales para Puerto Rico.
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https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/in-the-news/menendez-restore-perkins-loans-increase-college-affordability,"Menendez: restore Perkins loans, increase college affordability",2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez: restore Perkins loans, increase college affordability
Menendez: restore Perkins loans, increase college affordability
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Wednesday, December 9, 2015
U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez on Dec. 4 joined students and administrators at Rutgers University- Newark to call on Congress to reinstate the Perkins student loan program which expired Sept. 30 and has proven effective in increasing college affordability and accessibility for hundreds of thousands of students across the country.
Perkins Loans prioritize low-income students that would otherwise struggle to keep up with the growing cost of a college education, Menendez said. By allowing the program to expire, we are limiting their options and are failing to uphold the promise that if you work hard and get good grades, then you will be given the tools to succeed.
More than 10,000 students enrolled at New Jersey colleges last year received more than $17 million in Perkins loans.
...Continue reading full article here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-blasts-republicans-for-blocking-efforts-to-combat-puerto-ricos-economic-crisis,Menendez Blasts Republicans for Blocking Efforts to Combat Puerto Rico’s Economic Crisis,2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez Blasts Republicans for Blocking Efforts to Combat Puerto Ricos Economic Crisis
Menendez Blasts Republicans for Blocking Efforts to Combat Puerto Ricos Economic Crisis
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) spoke on the Senate floor after Republicans blocked a unanimous consent request preventing the Senate from voting on S.1774, the Puerto Rico Chapter 9 Uniformity Act , which would extend Chapter 9 bankruptcy protections to the island, help stabilize and protect the 3.5 million American citizens on the island.
As Congress fiddles, Puerto Rico burns; and it would be outrageous if Congress goes home for the holiday and leaves a brewing catastrophe for the 3.5 million American citizens of Puerto Rico who have fought for and died for this country.
As Chair of the Senate Democratic Hispanic Task Force and the only Latino Democrat in the Senate, Menendez has been at theforefront of the fight to help confront the financial crisis in Puerto Rico. He has repeatedly advocated to give the island the ability to restructure its debt in an orderly fashion, restoring fairness in federal healthcare programs, and providing parity in individual tax credits.
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https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-applaud-1m-federal-grants-to-protect-nj-wetlands,"Menendez, Booker Applaud $1M Federal Grants to Protect NJ Wetlands",2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez, Booker Applaud $1M Federal Grants to Protect NJ Wetlands
Menendez, Booker Applaud $1M Federal Grants to Protect NJ Wetlands
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Bob Menendezand Cory Booker (both D-NJ) today applauded a $1,073,000 commitment from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for Ocean County College, the New Jersey Sports and Exhibition Authority, and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to better protect wetlands throughout New Jersey.
As New Jersey continues to recover from Superstorm Sandy, we need programs and research projects that look at how we can protect our state from future storms, which scientists predict will only be more prevalent and more powerful due to climate change, said Sen. Menendez. We must preserve our diverse New Jersey ecosystems and this funding rightfully prioritizes the Garden States wetlands. I applaud investments like this because our Superstorm Sandy recovery should not solely be about rebuilding what the storm destroyed, but also about what we do to make our wetlands, shore and all New Jersey communities more resilient.
Restoring New Jerseys wetlands is critical to stemming the effects of climate change and protecting us from catastrophic events like Superstorm Sandy, said Sen. Booker.This federal grant represents a key investment in New Jerseys unique ecosystems that will help strengthen the ecological health of our region while taking an important step towards mitigating against the increasing threats of climate change and sea level rise.
Wetlands play a critical role in alleviating harmful effects of climate change, protecting against flooding and storm surges, said EPA Regional Administrator Judith A. Enck. These grants will help strengthen shorelines and the health of wetlands, protecting water quality and fish and wildlife habitats.
Since 1990, the EPAs Wetland Program development grants have provided financial assistance to help build or refine state and local government wetland programs. These funds provide opportunities for states to conduct research and help build the science behind comprehensive wetlands programs at the state level. Click here for more information about the program.
Details:
Ocean County College will use the $184,548 grant to develop monitoring procedures to assess the condition and progress of tidal marsh restoration sites. The project will build on wetland monitoring work Ocean County College has performed through the Barnegat Bay Partnership and in collaboration with the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary. Ocean County College and its partners will contribute $62,365 towards the total cost of this project.
The New Jersey Sports and Exhibition Authoritys Meadowlands Environmental Research Institute will use a $367,756 grant to measure long-term carbon storage, and the emissions of carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide in a range of marshes in the Meadowlands. Coastal marshes play an important role in the transformation of carbon and nitrogen, and remove carbon from the atmosphere. Findings from the Meadowlands Environmental Research Institutes investigations will provide information for tidal wetland mitigation and resiliency designs in the Meadowlands, with the goal of increasing carbon sequestration and minimizing greenhouse gas releases. The Meadowlands Environmental Research Institute will contribute $143,625 towards the total cost of this project.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection will use a $393,700 grant to improve the availability and accessibility of data on the health and condition of New Jerseys wetlands. The DEP will also use this grant funding to conduct analyses on these data to determine the most useful measures and standards to apply in future wetland restoration projects in New Jersey. In addition, funding will be used to install a monitoring station in the Raritan Bay, which will be used to conduct two years of site specific intensive monitoring. These stations will extend ongoing tidal wetland monitoring efforts from the Meadowlands to sites in Ocean and Cumberland Counties. The DEP will contribute $131,233 towards the total cost of this project.
With a $126,958 grant, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection will measure hydraulic and vegetation characteristics of the tidal marshes of the Mullica and Wading Rivers. The DEP will use this data to establish a baseline of reference conditions, and to evaluate disturbances (such as tidal tributary widening, pond expansion, and erosion) in other tidal marsh systems and the effect these disturbances may have in supporting mid-Atlantic fisheries. Tidal marshes are highly productive ecosystems that provide habitats for birds, fish and shellfish, and storm?surge buffering. The loss of coastal marshes can have devastating ecosystem?level consequences, and are among the most susceptible ecosystems to climate change. The DEP will contribute $42,320 towards the total cost of this project.
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https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-applaud-290k-for-nj-arts-projects,"Menendez, Booker Applaud $290K for NJ Arts Projects",2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez, Booker Applaud $290K for NJ Arts Projects
Menendez, Booker Applaud $290K for NJ Arts Projects
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-NJ) today applauded the awarding of $290,000 from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) for fifteen arts programs and productions across New Jersey. Programs and productions receiving funding are located in Camden, Fort Lee, Hamilton, Madison, Millville, Montclair, Morristown, Newark, Princeton, Red Bank and Union.
Enhanced opportunities in the arts enhance our communities, local economies and cultural future, said Sen. Menendez. New Jersey is home to a plethora of talented people, as well as vibrant music and arts groups, and Im glad these investments will allow New Jerseyans to express their creativity and share their artistic gifts with all of us.
Supporting New Jerseys art community helps preserve our diverse culture and rich history while showcasing the Garden States creative talent, said Sen. Booker. As organizations across the country continue to face budget constraints, this federal investment will help New Jerseys thriving art community flourish and continue to capture imaginations for generations.
These projects, from all over the nation, will make a difference in their communities, said NEA Chairman Jane Chu. ""We know from experience as well as through hard evidence that the arts matter and these projects will provide more opportunities for people to learn, create, and experience the value of the arts in so many different ways.
The 15 grants for New Jersey are part of the NEAs $27.7 million announcement that will support 1,126 projects in 49 states plus American Samoa, the District of Columbia and Guam. In its first 50 years, the NEA has awarded more than $5 billion in grants and this announcement launches the next 50 years of arts funding.
Grant Details:
Rutgers-Camden $35,000 Camden To support an exhibition, catalogue, and residency project that examines urban design issues in Camden, New Jersey. Contemporary artists will create new work that reimagines the city's built environment, focusing on the surface qualities of the urban landscape and the restructuring of the city's layout.
Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, Inc. $10,000 Fort Lee To support a multidisciplinary festival that will celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year through traditional and contemporary visual arts, music, and dance performances. Guest artists will include pipa musician Hong Tao Sun, kuaiban (a traditional form of rap or storytelling) artist XingYe Ma, visual artist Hotien Chang, and dancers Shi Ying, Min Zhou, and Yao Zhong Zhang. The festival will also present the premiere of ""Calligraffiti,"" a commissioned multimedia visual arts, dance, and music piece that explores the similarities between Chinese calligraphy and American graffiti art, featuring a composition by Huang Ruo. Outreach activities, intended to serve Chinese-American and African-American communities in New Jersey and New York City, will include lectures, pre-and post-performance discussions featuring the guest artists, and a bilingual marketing campaign.
International Sculpture Center, Inc. $20,000 Hamilton To support the Dialogues and Discoveries initiative. Designed to facilitate conversations about contemporary sculpture, the initiative includes the production of ""Sculpture"" magazine in print and versions designed for web browsers and tablet apps, as well as expansion of additional online digital content and a weekly blog.
Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, Inc. $10,000 Madison To support a production of William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. The play will be the inaugural production in the Free Shakespeare in Liberty State Park program.
Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center, Inc. $20,000 Millville To support artist residencies for U.S. emerging and/or mid-career glass artists at the Creative Glass Center of America. Participants will be provided with 24-hour access to studio and residencies will be flexible.
Montclair Art Museum $40,000 Montclair To support the exhibition Matisse and American Art with a catalogue and related educational programming. The exhibition will examine Henri Matisse's (1869-1954) influence on the development of American modern art from 1907 to the present. Featuring approximately 60 paintings, archival objects, and works on paper, the exhibition will bring together as many as 19 works by Matisse, juxtaposing them with approximately 42 works by American artists such as Max Weber, Alfred Maurer, Willem de Kooning, Richard Diebenkorn, Robert Motherwell, Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Romare Bearden, John Baldessari, and Sophie Matisse.
Arts Council of the Morris Area $20,000 Morristown To support Our Heritage is Our Future, The Gateway Totem Project. Stone carver and sculptor Gabriele Hiltl- Cohen will create a new site-specific public art installation in the historic Speedwell section of Morristown.
New Jersey Performing Arts Center Corporation $20,000 Newark To support the World of Sarah Vaughan a performance project celebrating the life and legacy of NEA Jazz Master Sarah Vaughan. The project will be part of the week-long James Moody Jazz Festival at NJPAC and several other Newark venues.
New Jersey Symphony Orchestra $10,000 Newark To support a winter festival exploring music inspired by William Shakespeare's plays. The orchestra will collaborate with The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, Montclair State University Chorale, and Manhattan School of Music Symphonic Chorus and will perform works by composers such as Hector Berlioz and Felix Mendelssohn. Festival concerts, as well as related educational and community engagement activities, will take place in Newark, Morristown, New Brunswick, and Princeton.
Arts Council of Princeton $30,000 Princeton To support the Witherspoon Public Art Project. The arts council will commission an artist to create a sculpture for placement in the Witherspoon-Jackson neighborhood of Princeton.
McCarter Theater Company $20,000 Princeton To support the premiere of ""All the Days"" by Sharyn Rothstein. Its about a contemporary Jewish family that is broken by death and divorce unites to celebrate a bar mitzvah. The theater will host community outreach events including pre-show talks before every performance, post-show conversations with members of the cast and the artistic team, student matinees with pre- and post-show conversations, and a curriculum guide.
Princeton Symphony Orchestra $10,000 Princeton To support a performance and community engagement project celebrating the 35th anniversary of the Princeton Symphony Orchestra. The orchestra, under the artistic direction of Rossen Milanov, will perform the Portraits of Women concert program featuring a new work by Princeton-based composer Sarah Kirkland Snider.
Count Basie Theatre, Inc. $15,000 Red Bank To produce a series of programs celebrating jazz as a uniquely American art form from April through May 2016. Offerings will include weekly discussions, a free film series of jazz biopics and a special ""No Shush"" History of Jazz interactive community program for children and their families featuring the Red Bank Jazz Orchestra and Louis Prima Jr. (son of jazz legend Louis Prima) and his band.
Two River Theater Company $20,000 Red Bank To support the production of ""The Ballad of Little Jo,"" with lyrics by Sarah Schlesinger and music by Mike Reid. The production will be supported by supplementary programming that focuses on the women of Frontier America, including discussions, student matinees, and an educational guide for classroom teachers.
Theater Project $10,000 Union To support performances of ""Crowns"" by playwright by Regina Taylor, post-performance question-and-answer sessions with the cast, and related outreach activities. In addition to the public performances, the project will also include a matinee for low-income youth.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.menendez.senate.gov/news-and-events/press/menendez-booker-applaud-selection-of-nj-army-national-guard-for-special-multi-state-cyber-protection-team,"Menendez, Booker Applaud Selection of NJ Army National Guard for Special Multi-State Cyber Protection Team",2015-12-09,2015,2015-12,Democrat,House,NJ,Robert Menendez,M000639,www.menendez.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Menendez, Booker Applaud Selection of NJ Army National Guard for Special Multi-State Cyber Protection Team
Menendez, Booker Applaud Selection of NJ Army National Guard for Special Multi-State Cyber Protection Team
Chosen for critical threat response unit because of significant experience, training, capacity
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC After an exhaustive review process, U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker today applauded the selection by the National Guard of the New Jersey Army National Guard to serve with the New York Army National Guard as a combined Cyber Protection Team (CPT). New Jersey will have a primary CPT station located at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Latham Armory, in Albany, will serve as the Units Mission Command center and additionally, space at the Rome Joint Reserve Intelligence Center will be used to accommodate cyber protection team mission requirements.
I applaud General Grass for selecting New Jerseys highly capable, proven Army National Guard to become a member of the NY-NJ Cyber Protection Team, said Sen. Menendez. We understand all too well that our region has long been a target for our adversaries around the world and our Army National Guard is uniquely positioned with the experience, training and capacity to respond to the ever-growing threats to our cyber financial networks.
Today's news is a testament to the unique capabilities New Jersey's National Guard and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst provide to the region and nation, which is why I stood with my colleagues in strong support of this important initiative, said Senator Booker. Having played a critical role in protecting our region during catastrophic events like Superstorm Sandy, I know the NY and NJ National Guard is prepared to defend us from the increasing cyber threats facing our nation today.
In a letter to the Army National Guards Chief, Menendez and Booker joined New York Senators Schumer and Gillibrand to urge for swift approval of a proposal allowing the New York and New Jersey Army National Guards to form a joint team focused on addressing the growing cyber security threats in New York and New Jersey. The new team would leverage their existing relationships with the Department of Homeland Security and their extensive training, to focus on combatting increasing cyber security threats to the regions critical infrastructure and networks.
These cyber units are designed to address the emerging cyber threats facing our nation while leveraging the unique and critical skill sets found through the private sector employment of our Guard Service Members. Additionally, these teams support the transition and retention of Service Members departing the active force for a career in the private sector, allowing these members to continue their service while retaining the tremendous military investment made in their training.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z