url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-and-merkley-announce-federal-investment-of-more-than-1-million-in-habitat-for-humanity-in-tillamook-county,Wyden and Merkley Announce Federal Investment of More Than $1 Million in Habitat for Humanity in Tillamook County,2023-12-28,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Federal loan will help Habitat open ReStore retail operations in Tillamook County

Washington D.C.— U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a federal investment of more than $1.1 million for Habitat for Humanity in Tillamook to secure space for its retail operations and administrative offices.

“In my town halls in Tillamook County and throughout the state, I hear from Oregon families and businesses that housing poses a huge challenge,” Wyden said. “Housing is a human right, and Habitat for Humanity has been on the frontline providing much-needed homes for Oregonians struggling to afford a roof over their heads. This investment will allow Habitat for Humanity to continue serving the citizens of Tillamook County for years to come.”

“Everyone should have a safe, affordable place to call home. This federal investment heading to Habitat for Humanity in Tillamook County will help more rural Oregonians access quality housing,” said Sen. Merkley, who formerly led one of Habitat for Humanity's Oregon chapters. “I have seen firsthand the difference that accessible homeownership makes for families and the inspiring dedication of Habitat's staff and volunteers, who are working to realize a world where everyone has a decent home in a decent community.”

The $1.13 million Rural Development loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will be used to buy an 8,625-square-foot commercial facility for Habitat for Humanity of Tillamook County's ReStore's retail operations and the organization's administrative offices.

Habitat for Humanity works with families, local communities, volunteers and partners to enable more people to live in affordable and safe homes. Its advocacy focuses on policy reform to remove systemic barriers preventing low-income and historically underserved families from having access to adequate, affordable shelter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-house-senate-lawmakers-demand-supreme-court-block-white-house-eco,"ICYMI: House, Senate lawmakers demand Supreme Court block White House eco actions: 'Set the record straight'",2023-12-22,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,OR,Cliff Bentz,B000668,bentz.house.gov,bentz,https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"https://www.foxnews.com/politics/house-senate-lawmakers-demand-supreme-court-block-white-house-eco-actions-set-record-straight

By Thomas Catenacci - Fox News

FIRST ON FOX: A group of dozens of House and Senate Republicans filed a legal brief Monday to urge the Supreme Court to take up two cases related to President Biden's authority to lock up public lands from resource development and other uses.

In the brief first obtained by Fox News Digital, the lawmakers — led by Rep. Cliff Bentz, R-Ore., and joined by House Natural Resources Committee Chair Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash., and 26 other lawmakers including three senators — argued that the president's use of the 1906 Antiquities Act is an example of federal overreach and violates the U.S. Constitution.

The lawmakers specifically asked the high court to hear both American Forest Resource Council v. United States of America and Murphy Company v. Biden, two cases challenging the expansion of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument in southwest Oregon. Plaintiffs have argued that the monument expansion was both illegal and caused significant economic damage, particularly to the timber industry.

""We urge the Supreme Court to hear these cases and send a clear message that the President cannot simply bypass Congress and rewrite our nation's land laws with the stroke of a pen,"" Bentz said in a statement. ""This is about upholding the Constitution, protecting our rural communities, and ensuring responsible management of our public lands.""

The Antiquities Act, designed as a federal conservation tool, grants the president broad authority to establish national monuments on existing federal lands. Since taking office in 2021, Biden has established five such monuments in Colorado, Nevada, Texas, Mississippi and Arizona, which have faced opposition from industry, lawmakers and garnered legal challenges.

Invoking the Antiquities Act and establishing a national monument effectively blocks the designated lands from normal uses. Under separate legislation passed in the 1970s, Congress established the so-called ""multiple-use"" and sustained yield mandate, requiring the Bureau of Land Management to open the lands it manages to various uses including energy development like drilling, grazing, recreation and mining.

""For far too long the executive branch has abused the Antiquities Act to cut off millions of acres of public lands, an action that greatly impacts rural communities across the country and ignores Congress’ directive on how those lands must be responsibly managed,"" Westerman said Tuesday.

""The president does not have the constitutional authority to lock away our federal land and waters, especially without any local input,"" he said. ""I urge the Supreme Court to take up these two critical cases and set the record straight on the executive branch’s authority when it comes to regulating our federal lands and waters.""

But while the two cases are focused on that monument, they have much wider ramifications for future use of the Antiquities Act and national monuments created by Biden over the last two years, according to plaintiffs.

Biden's designation of the Avi Kwa Ame National Monument in Nevada and Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni National Monument in Arizona, for example, have faced opposition that included legal challenges from state governments as well as mining, livestock and agriculture groups.

""Whether you’re living in southwest Oregon near the illegal expansion of the monument, in Utah where numerous presidential proclamations have placed massive areas off-limits in recent years, or in Washington, D.C., where concerns about the protection of our democracy and constitutional processes are top of mind, this case and its outcome are critical to the future management of our federal lands,"" American Forest Resource Council (AFRC) President Travis Joseph said last month.

In 2019, after the AFRC sued the federal government over the designation of Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument, a lower court ruled in favor of the group and said the executive branch lacked authority to override the will of Congress which, in separate legislation, defined sustained-yield timber harvest as the dominant use of public land in Oregon.

Then in July, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals reversed that decision. Months earlier, in April, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals came to a similar conclusion in Murphy Company v. Biden, the second case that Republicans asked the Supreme Court to review.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-wyden-merkley-bonamici-colleagues-call-expanded-funding-community,"Salinas, Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Colleagues Call for Expanded Funding for Community Health Centers",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,OR,Andrea Salinas,S001226,salinas.house.gov,salinas,https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – On Wednesday, December 20, U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06) joined U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), along with U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), on a bipartisan letter urging the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to provide more access to federal resources for community healthcare centers.

“Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alikes fill critical gaps in our health care system and ensure more Americans can get the care they need, regardless of income or insurance status,” said Rep. Salinas. “We need to give these health centers access to federal funding, so that they can better serve communities in Oregon and across the country. I join my colleagues in calling on HRSA to make it easier for FQHC Look-Alikes to get the support and resources they deserve.”

Currently, there are 136 Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alikes in Oregon and across the nation that provide services to over 1 million patients, but still don’t receive federal resources they should be eligible for. FQHC Look-Alikes are organizations that meet all of the eligibility requirements of an FQHC that receives a Public Health Service Section 330 grant, but do not receive grant funding.

“These community-based health care providers are already serving populations that may not otherwise be able to access care, and hope to expand the reach of their services to more people,” the legislators said.

“HRSA should be leveraging the network of existing FQHC Look-Alikes. By prioritizing Look-Alikes that already comply with Health Center Program requirements over brand new sites, HRSA will ensure that federal dollars are being allocated to health centers with a proven track record of success that hope to expand the universe of patients they can serve and expand the care they are able to offer.”

The letter was led by Sen. Wyden and U.S. Representative Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.). Along with Salinas, Wyden, Merkley, and Bonamici, the letter also was co-signed in the Senate by the U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Angus King (I-Maine), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and in the House by U.S. Representatives Ken Calvert (R-Calif), Josh Harder (D-Calif.), Mike Kelly (R-Pa.), Young Kim (R-Calif.) and Katie Porter (D-Calif).

The text of the letter is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-22-million-for-rural-school-hybrid-program,"Wyden, Merkley Announce $2.2 Million for Rural School Hybrid Program",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a $2.2 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development Program for Chemeketa Community College.

“Students of all backgrounds deserve a fair shot at a solid education,” Wyden said. “This funding is the perfect example of how to expand opportunitiesfor folks in rural Oregon and across the nation, and I applaud Chemeketa Community College for receiving this grant.”

“Higher education helps connect students with resources, opportunities, and tools to thrive, building stronger communities, economies, and futures in Oregon,” said Merkley. “As the first in my family to graduate from college, I know how challenging it can be to access higher education—especially for those coming from underrepresented and underserved backgrounds. This incredibly important funding for Chemeketa Community College will help provide crucial support and opportunities, opening doors for Oregon’s rural students”

“We are thrilled to receive this grant for the 'Chemeketa College-going Access and Regional Equity for Students (CARES)' project. This funding will empower us to expand educational opportunities for rural high school students, strengthen community partnerships, and ensure a brighter future for our region,"" said Jessica Howard, Ph.D., President and CEO of Chemeketa Community College.

The $2.2 million federal grant will support the Chemeketa College-going Access and Regional Equity for Students (CARES) program. The program expands career and technical education dual credit courses, develops hybrid CTE and combined school enrollment models, and provides teachers with effective technology and professional development opportunities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-bill-amend-grand-ronde-reservation-act-passes-senate-will-become-law,"Salinas Bill to Amend Grand Ronde Reservation Act Passes Senate, Will Become Law",2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,OR,Andrea Salinas,S001226,salinas.house.gov,salinas,https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06) announced her legislation with U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) to amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act, which restores the right to pursue land claims and compensation for the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, has cleared both chambers of Congress. The legislation now heads to President Biden to be signed into law.

The bill was first introduced by Rep. Salinas in March as her first piece of legislation, and she ensured it passed the U.S. House of Representatives early last month. Senator Merkley has long championed the bill with success in the Senate, where it passed this week with unanimous support. The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Val Hoyle (OR-04), and Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05), as well as U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

“I am deeply proud that my amendment to the Grand Ronde Reservation Act has passed the Senate and will soon become law. This is a historic moment not only for the Grand Ronde Tribe, but for Indigenous peoples in Oregon and across the country,” said Rep. Salinas. “At long last, the Grand Ronde Tribe will finally have the right to pursue land claims and compensation once again. I am so grateful to Senator Merkley, my Oregon colleagues, and everyone who helped get this important legislation across the finish line, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law in the coming days.”

“A gross injustice against the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde is finally ending, and a new chapter of healing and justice for the Tribal community can begin,” said Sen. Merkley. “Nearly three decades ago, the Grand Ronde sought to fix a historical surveying error within their reservation boundary, only for the federal government to make another error that relinquished the Tribe’s rights to future land claims and compensation. I’ve long championed legislation to correct this egregious injustice. With the strong partnership of Representative Salinas, it is finally becoming a law that will ensure the Grand Ronde has the legal ability to restore its right to pursue land claims in Oregon—rights already available to other federally-recognized Tribes in Oregon.”

“Words cannot express what this means to us and the pure joy I had hearing the news,” said Grand Ronde Chairwoman Cheryle A. Kennedy. “This amendment to the Grand Ronde Reservation Act is about correcting a historical wrong and restoring equity to the Tribe. We will forever be grateful to all those that worked to make this possible.”

“For far too long, the Grand Ronde have been unjustly denied the right to pursue land claims and compensation,” said Governor Kotek. “We have to do better for all of Oregon’s sovereign Tribes. The enactment of this legislation will alleviate concerns and uncertainties stemming from the 1994 amendment, preserving the Tribe's pre-1994 right to compensation and ensuring a clear and just resolution in the event of any future land survey discrepancies. I am greatly appreciative of Oregon’s federal delegation in leading on this legislation, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law by President Biden.”

Salinas and Merkley’s bill to fix the Grand Ronde Reservation Act corrects a drafting error in a 1994 legislative amendment to the Grand Ronde Reservation Act, which authorized a land exchange requiring the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to compensate the Grand Ronde Tribe for an 84-acre survey error by the federal government. The survey error occurred around 1871 and was not discovered by the Bureau of Land Management until 1988. In 1994, in pursuing federal legislation to rectify the error, an amendment was made to the bill at the time that further prohibited the Tribe from making any additional land claims if new errors were ever discovered.

Salinas and Merkley’s bill will end this inequitable restriction on the Tribe so that they may pursue recourse if additional survey errors are found. Currently, no other tribe in the State of Oregon is bound by this type of legal restriction and removing it will restore equity to the Grand Ronde Tribe. In case additional survey errors are discovered, this bill to amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act would replace the phrase “lands within the State of Oregon” with the phrase “the 84 acres known as the Thompson Strip,” clarifying that they are only prohibited from making additional land claims to the area known as the Thompson Strip.

“I applaud and was pleased to strongly support this legislation correcting an injustice for the Grand Ronde Tribe,” said Sen. Wyden. “As a nation we must address past mistakes. I will fight for every Oregon Tribe to ensure the federal government is fully and equitably honoring its obligations and responsibilities to them.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-crapo-applaud-senate-passage-of-legislation-honoring-medal-of-honor-recipients,"Wyden, Crapo Applaud Senate Passage of Legislation Honoring Medal of Honor Recipients",2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"The bipartisan bill would designate the longest U.S. highway as the “National Medal of Honor Highway”

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Mike Crapo, R-Idaho today applauded Senate passage of their bipartisan legislation designating U.S. Highway 20 between Newport, Ore. and New England as the “National Medal of Honor Highway.”

""It's an honor to have worked closely with veterans in Oregon and nationwide in the grassroots movement to designate our country's longest continuous highway, stretching from the Pacific to the Atlantic, as the ‘National Medal of Honor Highway,’” Wyden said. “I’m proud that my bill to officially recognize U.S. Highway 20 as the ‘National Medal of Honor Highway’ has passed the Senate. This bill is more than a symbolic gesture—it's a timeless tribute to the heroes of America. I am steadfast in my commitment to relentlessly champion this cause alongside our veterans, and I’ll keep fighting tooth and nail to get this bill signed into law.”

“The Medal of Honor represents the determination and courage of those who acted far beyond the call of duty. I look forward to the enactment of law cementing this national designation to honor each of them across these 400 miles,” Crapo said.

The Medal of Honor is the nation’s highest military award for valor, presented by the president in Congress’ name. U.S. service members who distinguish themselves “through conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty” can receive the medal.

Redesignating U.S. Highway 20— the longest continuous highway in the United States— as the “National Medal of Honor Highway” would honor each state’s current and future Medal of Honor recipients and recipients from any state who travel on it.

Legislatures and governors in all 12 states along U.S. Highway 20 have designated their state Medal of Honor Highways covering 100 percent of the 3,365-mile Medal of Honor Highway across America. The 12 states along U.S. Highway 20 account for about 62 percent of all 3,516 Medal of Honor awards presented since the Civil War. Designating U.S. Highway 20 as the “National Medal of Honor Highway'' would ensure all 3,516 recipients and any future recipients from all 50 states and territories are honored.

U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., Mike Braun, R-Ind., James Risch, R-Idaho, Chuck Schumer, D- N.Y., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Todd Young, R-Ind., Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., John Fetterman, D-Pa., Ed Markey, D-Mass., Steve Daines, R-Mont., Deb Fischer, R-Neb., J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, Jon Tester, D-Mont., and Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., cosponsored the Senate version of the bill. U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly, R-Pa., and Brian Higgins, D-N.Y. led similar legislation in the House of Representatives.

The legislation is supported by the Bend Heroes Foundation, Military Officers Association of America, The American Legion, Legion of Valor, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Vietnam Veterans of America, Medal of Honor Historical Society of the United States, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.

Dick Tobiason, LTC US Army Retired, Chairman, Bend Heroes Foundation: “As the Bend Heroes Foundation’s project manager of the Medal of Honor Highway Across America on US Hwy 20, I thank Senators Ron Wyden and Mike Crapo for their outstanding leadership resulting in today’s Senate passage of the National Medal of Honor Highway designation. I’m proud the project was launched in Oregon. And I also thank the national veterans groups who supported the Bend Heroes Foundation’s request – American Legion, Legion of Valor, Congressional Medal of Honor Society, Military Officers Association of America, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Medal of Honor Historical Society of the United States and Vietnam Veterans of America.”

The text of the bill is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-bonamici-salinas-colleagues-call-for-expanded-funding-for-community-health-centers,"Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Salinas, Colleagues call for Expanded Funding for Community Health Centers",2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, along with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici and Andrea Salinas, joined bipartisan colleagues today to urge the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to provide more access to federal resources for community healthcare centers.

Currently, there are 136 Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alikes in Oregon and across the nation that provide services to over 1 million patients, but still don’t receive federal resources they should be eligible for. FQHC Look-Alikes are organizations that meet all of the eligibility requirements of an FQHC that receives a Public Health Service Section 330 grant, but do not receive grant funding.

“These community-based health care providers are already serving populations that may not otherwise be able to access care, and hope to expand the reach of their services to more people,” the legislators said.

“HRSA should be leveraging the network of existing FQHC Look-Alikes. By prioritizing Look-Alikes that already comply with Health Center Program requirements over brand new sites, HRSA will ensure that federal dollars are being allocated to health centers with a proven track record of success that hope to expand the universe of patients they can serve and expand the care they are able to offer.”

The letter was led by Senator Wyden and U.S. Representative Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.). Along with Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici and Salinas, the letter also was co-signed in the Senate by the U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Angus King (I-Maine), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and in the House by Representatives Ken Calvert (R-Calif), Josh Harder (D-Calif.), Mike Kelly (R-Pa.), Young Kim (R-Calif.) and Katie Porter (D-Calif).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases/bentz-leads-bicameral-coalition-amicus-brief-urging-supreme-court-curb,Bentz Leads Bicameral Coalition in Amicus Brief Urging Supreme Court to Curb Presidential Overreach under the Antiquities Act,2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,OR,Cliff Bentz,B000668,bentz.house.gov,bentz,https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Cliff Bentz (R-Ore.) announced that he is leading a coalition of Congressmen and Senators in filing an amicus brief with the Supreme Court, urging the Court to hear two important and critical cases challenging the President's misuse of the Antiquities Act to establish National Monuments. These cases, American Forest Resource Council v. United States of America and Murphy Company v. Biden, present a clear opportunity for the Court to establish limits on presidential authority and uphold the Constitution's separation of powers doctrine.

""The Constitution makes it clear that Congress, not the President, makes our laws. The President’s job is not to make law, but to enforce them. Yet, in recent years, Presidents have increasingly usurped congressional authority by using the Antiquities Act to 'Monumentize' millions upon millions of acres of public land rendering massive areas largely untouchable. This blatant disregard for the will of the people is an affront to the Constitution,"" stated Congressman Bentz. ""In this brief we urge the Supreme Court to hear these cases and to make it clear that the President cannot circumvent Congress by rewriting our nation's public land

laws with the stroke of a pen. This is about upholding the Constitution, protecting our public lands from being left to burn up, and that they can be properly managed with the their best interest in mind.""

The amicus brief highlights several key concerns:

Presidential Overreach: The President's recent national

monument designation in Oregon overrides Congress's directive for

how these lands must be managed, specifically the O&C Act, which

mandates sustained-yield timber production to generate revenue for

rural communities. The President’s actions set a dangerous precedent

of executive overreach on all federal lands and waters.

Economic Devastation: The President’s monument designation

cripples forest-dependent communities and exacerbates the wildfire

crisis by severely limiting essential forest management practices.

Constitutional Violation: The Constitution vests Congress, not the

President, with the power to regulate federal lands. This case is an

opportunity for the Supreme Court to reaffirm the separation of

powers and protect the rights of American citizens.

Travis Joseph, American Forest Resource Council President stated, ""We thank Congressman Cliff Bentz for his leadership on the Congressional amicus brief, and for bringing awareness to these important issues on Capitol Hill. Congressman Bentz and his colleagues understand the Constitutional issues that are at stake; the need to maintain and strengthen the separation of powers; and to ensure that Congress - not the President - continues to make the laws on behalf of the Americans they represent.""

""For far too often, Congress has given the Executive Branch too much authority to manage and lock up Federal lands,"" said Western Caucus Chairman Dan Newhouse (WA-04). ""Both the Obama and Biden Administrations have abused the Antiquities Act to create new national monuments out of our federal lands to lock them up from development in opposition to the intent of Congress. It’s past time for members of Congress to reclaim authority relating to the Antiquities Act, which is why I signed on to this Amicus Brief to make our argument clear to the Supreme Court as they review cases.""

Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) stated, ""For far too long the executive branch has abused the Antiquities Act to cut off millions of acres of public lands, an action that greatly impacts rural communities across the country and ignores Congress’ directive on how those lands must be responsibly managed. The President does not have the constitutional authority to lock away our federal land and waters, especially without any local input. I urge the Supreme Court to take up these two critical cases and set the record straight on the executive branch’s authority when it comes to regulating our federal lands and waters.""

""For years, the Obama and Biden Administrations used the Antiquities Act to institutionalize massive executive overreach, seizing acres and acres of land without consequence. In some Congressional Districts, almost 80% of rural land was set aside as public or federal land,"" said Congresswoman Miller-Meeks (IA-01). ""We must preserve the use of federal lands for responsible recreational, agricultural, and energy use. I am proud to join my colleagues in urging the Supreme Court to curb executive overreach and require the Administration to consult Congress before making rash decisions about our federal lands.""

""I am proud to join my colleagues in asking the Supreme Court to impose a limit on a president’s authority under the Antiquities Act,"" Congressman Russ Fulcher (ID-01) said. ""Congress should determine whether public land can become an untouchable national monument; not the president. The Biden Administration is taking land away Congress requires be sustainably harvested to generate revenue for rural counties. I have worked, on a bipartisan basis, to extend Good Neighbor Authority to counties and tribes, helping them with job creation and revenue from timber harvests, along with managing the risk of wildfires and good environmental stewardship of our forests. I hope the Supreme Court hears the message loud and clear: Congress – not the President – has the constitutional authority over federal lands.""

Congressman John Rose (TN-06) added, ""President Biden's heavy-handed approach to using the Antiquities Act must be halted by the Supreme Court. As an attorney and eighth-generation farmer, I understand that the best stewards of public lands are the local communities who manage and depend on them—not the federal government—and that President Biden's use of the Antiquities Act is blatantly unconstitutional. I am proud to join Rep. Bentz in this amicus brief to hold the president accountable to the constitution and prevent him from damaging rural southwest Oregon communities that depend on this public land.""

""Once again, the Biden administration is overstepping its authority and restricting more of our lands from use. The Antiquities Act is just one of many ways that the Biden administration is keeping Americans from gaining energy independence, enjoying sport & recreation activities, and restricting every ability to do anything except “conserve” land in the name of a ridiculous climate change agenda. I urge the Supreme Court to take up this case and to strike down this Biden abuse of office,"" Congresswoman Harriet Hageman (WY-AL) concluded.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-urges-federal-trade-commission-to-block-kroger-albertsons-merger,Wyden Urges Federal Trade Commission to Block Kroger-Albertsons Merger,2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today urged the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to block the proposed Kroger and Albertsons merger due to potential negative effects on consumers in Oregon and nationwide.

“Specifically, I am concerned that the proposed merger, if approved, will result in fewer pharmacy options for Oregonians, fewer economic opportunities for Oregon’s small farmers, and harm to Oregon’s workers and consumers,” Wyden wrote in the letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan. “The Oregon Health Authority undertook a preliminary review of the impact of the proposed merger on health care and found that the proposed merger would result in a harmful concentration of retail pharmacies in the state.”

In the letter, Wyden also emphasized this merger would put Oregonians' privacy at risk due to Kroger’s policies for sharing patient information with law enforcement without warrants.

“As part of a recent inquiry I conducted into major pharmacy chains’ privacy practices, I learned that Kroger provides pharmacy records to law enforcement officials without a warrant or any internal review by a legal professional. This finding places Kroger behind the majority of its peer chain pharmacies in terms of its commitment to safeguarding patient privacy.”

“Less than a decade ago, Albertsons-Safeway proposed a similar divestiture only to buy back many of the divested stores two years later and watch the rest go out of business. I urge the FTC to use the Albertsons-Safeway outcome as a guide to the Commission as it considers possible outcomes of this proposed merger,” Wyden continued.

The Kroger-Albertsons merger threatens to make the consolidation crisis in the retail food market worse, following on large deals like the Albertsons-Safeway merger in 2015, as well as the expansion of mega-retailers across the country that have driven independent grocers out of business.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-begins-2024-with-seven-town-halls-in-central-and-eastern-oregon,Wyden Begins 2024 With Seven Town Halls in Central & Eastern Oregon,2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Portland – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced he will begin his 2024 town hall schedule with seven in-person town halls the first week of January in Jefferson, Sherman, Morrow, Umatilla, Union, Baker and Malheur counties.

Heading into these initial town halls of the new year, Wyden has held a total of 1,065 town halls throughout Oregon in fulfillment of his pledge to hold at least one town hall each year in each of Oregon’s 36 counties.

“I’m very much looking forward to starting 2024 with these open-to-all town halls in the ongoing spirit of the ‘Oregon Way’ where anybody can ask questions, share opinions and suggest ideas,” Wyden said. “Heading into a new congressional year, these open-to-all town halls are especially timely because Oregonians in these counties can help shape legislative priorities for the next 12 months and beyond.”

The schedule for the upcoming town halls is as follows:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-gonzalez-colon-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-remove-marine-debris,"Bonamici, González-Colón Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Remove Marine Debris",2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [12/15/23] –Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Jenniffer González-Colón (R-Puerto Rico), Co-Chairs of the House Oceans Caucus, introduced legislation to help remove marine debris from the ocean and waterways.

H.R. 6781 would reauthorize the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Marine Debris Program through 2028. The representatives introduced the bill ahead of the third anniversary of the bipartisan Save Our Seas 2.0 Act, the most comprehensive legislation passed by Congress to address marine debris and strengthen NOAA’s Marine Debris Program. Bonamici led the original bill with the late Rep. Don Young (R-AK).

“Marine debris threatens coastal communities, ecosystems, and marine life,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “Congress acted to strengthen NOAA’s Marine Debris Program to better respond to the plastics, derelict vessels and fishing gear, and other harmful debris that litters the ocean’s waters and shores. This legislation will build on that success to continue protecting the ocean and communities into the future. I’m grateful to partner with my Oceans Caucus Co-Chair Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón in this important effort.”

“NOAA’s Marine Debris Program provides critical resources to address and mitigate the adverse impacts of marine debris in our ocean and coastal environments,” said Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón. “In Puerto Rico, for example, it has supported initiatives to research and monitor the sources of marine debris within our watersheds, as well as multiple projects to help remove abandoned vessels, derelict fishing gear, and hurricane-generated debris throughout our coasts and waters. I’m proud to join my fellow House Oceans Caucus Co-Chair, Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, to introduce bipartisan legislation to reauthorize NOAA’s Marine Debris Program and ensure it can continue supporting state, territorial, and local efforts to comprehensively tackle this issue.”

The text of the legislation can be viewed here.

Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) introduced the Senate companion bill.

Bonamici and González-Colón co-chair the House Oceans Caucus, a bipartisan group of House members committed to protecting the health and future of the ocean. This Congress, the Caucus has been focused on environmental stressors (including ocean acidification, harmful algal blooms, and hypoxia); marine debris; ocean data and monitoring; coastal resiliency; deep sea mining; and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/oregon-officials-statements-on-600-million-federal-award-for-interstate-bridge-replacement-project,Oregon Officials’ Statements on $600 Million Federal Award for Interstate Bridge Replacement Project,2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Wyden, Merkley, Kotek, Blumenauer, Bonamici and ODOT Director assess impact of funding for I-5 bridge

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, Gov. Tina Kotek, U.S. Reps. Earl Blumenauer and Suzanne Bonamici as well as the Oregon Department of Transportation issued the following statements about today’s $600 million award from the U.S. Department of Transportation to the Interstate-5 Bridge replacement project.

“Today’s $600 million down payment on the federal investment needed for the Interstate Bridge is good news for freight traffic in Oregon and throughout the Northwest as well as helpful for commuters,” Wyden said. “Jobs and the Oregon economy are big winners with a modern interstate bridge. I’m all with seeing this vital project through to completion with the ongoing help of federal tax dollars and without any new tolling costs landing on Oregon motorists, many of whom are already battling to make ends meet. I also look forward to pressing ahead to pursue all available options to secure the federal investment needed for the Port of Coos Bay to achieve its innovative container terminal project, which has the power to change the economic future of the South Coast and our entire state.”

“What a historic day! The I-5 Bridge Replacement Project receiving a $600 million USDOT Mega Grant is not only a game changer for Oregonians who will soon have expanded transportation options to cross the Columbia River, but a huge win for our economy as the project will generate many good-paying union jobs,” Merkley said. “This federal funding secured through the landmark Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is the result of intense bipartisan teamwork, and a huge step forward to realize a long-sought project that will boost seismic resiliency in the region and ensure safer, faster, and more reliable transportation for generations to come. I’ll also keep fighting for Coos Bay’s transformative container port project, which would be a huge win for the region and the nation.”

""This is a big moment for the Pacific Northwest and demonstrates the national significance of this effort,” Kotek said. “Replacing the Interstate Bridge is a critical infrastructure investment for our local communities, two states, and the entire West Coast. This project will help advance our goal of reducing emissions through a modern, multimodal bridge and will provide an infusion of federal funds to our region that will support local jobs and broader workforce opportunities.""

“This investment would not have happened without President Biden and Congressional Democrats’ strong commitment to rebuilding and renewing America,” Blumenauer said. “The I-5 bridge is a critical link for people and commerce and must be replaced to withstand a significant earthquake. It gets us a step closer to connecting Portland and Vancouver with light rail and safe pedestrian and cycling lanes – investments that will make a real difference for our climate.”

“The Interstate Bridge is an integral part of our regional economy and connects communities across the Columbia River,” said Bonamici. “I have long advocated for federal resources to update this bridge so it can provide a safe connection for commuters and transit well into the future. This funding is great news for the people of NW Oregon and our entire region.”

The $600 million for the Interstate Bridge project will go toward a seismically resilient replacement of the I-5 bridge over the Columbia River, connecting Vancouver, Washington to Portland, Oregon. The new bridge will include transit improvements such as additional light-rail transit service, enhanced zero-emission express bus service, and the expansion of active transportation networks.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases/bentz-releases-statement-support-national-defense-authorization-act,Bentz Releases Statement in Support of the National Defense Authorization Act,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,OR,Cliff Bentz,B000668,bentz.house.gov,bentz,https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Cliff Bentz (R-Ore.) released the following statement after voting “yes” on H.R. 2670, National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024.

“The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is absolutely essential to the safety and security of every American. There is simply nothing more important than being able to defend our country and our freedoms. The bill is not perfect, but it takes huge steps in the right direction. This bill helps us prepare for the worst, and the list of really bad things that could happen grows longer every day.

One of the good things done in this bill is that it secures funding for Kingsley Field’s next mission, which is to train elite F-35A Lightning II jet pilots in Klamath Falls.

For nearly 70 years, Kingsley Field has played a critical role in safeguarding our nation's air superiority. Since taking office, securing Kingsley's future has been a top priority, and I'm thrilled the Air Force has chosen Kingsley for this essential mission.”

FY24 NDAA Highlights:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-committee-advances-two-wyden-bills-key-to-oregons-future,Senate Committee Advances Two Wyden Bills Key to Oregon’s Future,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"One bill benefits Owyhee in Eastern Oregon; other bill reauthorizes signature Wyden legislation that’s secured nearly $4 billion for counties statewide

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today released the following statement applauding the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for advancing his Malheur Community Empowerment for the Owyhee Act (CEO Act) and his Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2023:

“The ENR Committee has advanced two of my bills key to Oregon’s future.

“The Malheur Community Empowerment for the Owyhee Act preserves both a treasured way of life and a treasured landscape. The bill helps our state’s ranchers and the small businesses in Eastern Oregon who call this breath-taking and nationally recognized area home. This legislation is the product of years of hard work with Malheur County ranchers, Tribes, conservationists and recreation lovers who all came together to develop what I believe should be a framework for conservation nationwide. It encapsulates a shared vision that leaves Eastern Oregon in effect as the CEO of one of America’s most spectacular landscapes.

“The Secure Rural Schools program has proven a vital lifeline for rural counties in Oregon and nationwide, but lapses in Congressional action leave counties dangling on an annual fiscal cliff. Reauthorizing the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act is critical and necessary to support education, road maintenance, forest and watershed health, fire prevention, search and rescue, and other essential services in rural communities.

“Today’s action brings my two bills closer to full Senate consideration. I applaud my colleagues on the ENR committee for their partnership and hard work to get us here.”

The Malheur Community Empowerment for the Owyhee Act would preserve the Owyhee and introduce more flexibility into the established grazing management system. The legislation is informed by Eastern Oregon ranchers, tribes and environmental organizations convened by Wyden.

The Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2023 would continue investment in rural communities across Oregon and the nation for essential services such as education, road maintenance, search and rescue, wildfire prevention and watershed restoration. Since Wyden first authored the program in 2000, Secure Rural Schools has provided nearly $4 billion to Oregon counties. To preserve this vital lifeline for rural communities, Secure Rural Schools must be reauthorized in fiscal year 2024.

Both bills now move to the full Senate for consideration.

Watch a video of Wyden’s remarks here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-and-merkley-introduce-legislation-to-end-voter-suppression-by-unreasonably-long-lines,Wyden and Merkley Introduce Legislation to End Voter Suppression by Unreasonably Long Lines,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"POLL Act Ends Long Lines and Ensures Every Voter Can Cast a Ballot in 30 Minutes

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., today introduced legislation that would end hours-long lines at polling places that suppress hundreds of thousands of votes, and restore Americans’ constitutional rights to vote in free and fair elections.

“Oregonians are fortunate to have the option to vote at home, but many other voters nationwide lack that opportunity and shouldn’t be effectively cut off from the ballot box by lines that leave them on their feet for hours on end. Everyone has a right to make their voice count in our democracy,” Wyden said. “Making voting easy shouldn’t be a partisan issue. It’s time to pass the POLL Act to end lengthy lines and empower voters to make their voices heard at the ballot box.”

“Forcing people to wait in long lines to vote is a discriminatory tool used to manipulate elections by preventing citizens from voting. Nobody should have to spend hours upon hours away from work, school, and other responsibilities and obligations to exercise their constitutional rights,” said Merkley. “If we believe in the freedom to vote and democracy, let's make sure staffing and equipment are distributed equitably so nobody has to wait more than 30 minutes to vote.”

Data from the 2020 election showed that nearly one-in-five in-person voters waited more than 30 minutes to vote and casting a vote typically took longer in poorer, less white neighborhoods than it did in whiter and more affluent ones.

The People Over Long Lines (POLL) Act would require state and local governments to end these forms of voter suppression. The bill requires states to file public plans detailing how they will ensure voters can cast ballots with waiting times of less than 30 minutes and require audits by the Election Assistance Commission to determine how many voters face longer waits. The bill includes $500 million to help states reduce voter wait times.

The POLL Act would also create a private right of action of $50 for voters forced to wait for longer than 30 minutes, with an additional $50 for every hour after that. Penalties would increase if a court determines long lines were the result of intentional voter suppression or reckless disregard for election plans. Successful plaintiffs would also be entitled to court costs.

It is supported by leading voting rights groups, including: Stand Up America, Fair Fight Action, End Citizens United // Let America Vote Action Fund, League of Minority Voters, and GALEO Impact Fund.

Statements of Support

Tiffany Muller, President, End Citizens United and Let America Vote Action Fund: “Forcing Americans to stand in long lines to vote is an anti-voter tactic deployed by power-hungry politicians to dissuade people from making their voices heard––specifically communities of color. The People Over Long Lines Act would end illegal practices and intimidation tactics that are designed to prevent voters from participating in their democracy. We applaud Senator Wyden for his continued leadership on this issue and encourage the Senate to make this a bipartisan priority.”

Tishan Weerasooriya, Senior Associate for Policy & Political Affairs, Stand Up America: “Every election, too many voters, especially those in low-income and majority-Black communities, face long lines, ballot shortages, and other barriers to casting their ballots. Ensuring polling locations are adequately staffed and resourced and wait times are reduced to no longer than 30 minutes is vital to protecting Americans’ freedom to vote. Stand Up America thanks Senator Wyden for introducing the POLL Act, and we look forward to advocating for its swift passage into law,”

Priyanka Sharma, President and Founder, Promise King, and Co-chair, League of Minority Voters: “We enthusiastically support the POLL Act as it aims to increase access to the voting process. Increased access to voting options and ease of voting are key to achieving a representative democracy that reflects our country’s diversity. League of Minority Voters is committed to inclusion of different perspectives and voices in the electoral process and working towards a more vibrant and robust democracy.”

The text of the bill is here.

Wyden has been a national leader in the fight to make voting more accessible and secure. This year, Wyden introduced legislation to ensure American voters can vote more conveniently and securely at home and legislation to expand youth access to voting.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-urge-federal-agencies-to-boost-public-food-and-agriculture-research-funding-in-fiscal-year-2025,"Wyden, Colleagues Urge Federal Agencies to Boost Public Food and Agriculture Research Funding in Fiscal Year 2025",2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"In a letter to USDA and OMB, senators call on agency leaders to increase USDA research funding by at least five percent, plus inflation

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he’s joined Senate colleagues to urge top federal officials to increase the Department of Agriculture’s research budget by at least five percent, plus inflation, for Fiscal Year 2025.

“As the President’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 budget request is prepared, we request that an increase of at least five percent, plus inflation, above the FY 2024 funding levels proposed by the Senate, be provided across the board for all USDA research activities underway within the Agricultural Research Service, National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the Economic Research Service, and the National Agricultural Statistics Service,” the senators wrote in the letter to Agriculture Secretary Thomas Vilsack and Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young.

In their letter, the senators emphasized the importance of public funding for food and agriculture research as it ensures the United States remains competitive globally.

“Between 2008 and 2013, however, public investments in food and agricultural research dropped by 20 percent in inflation-adjusted terms, while the contributions by large private-sector corporations have increased by 64 percent over the same period… The public sector can pursue research into subjects and specialties that the private sector cannot or will not,” wrote the Senators. “Open-access research helps to increase the pace of discoveries …. by some estimates ranging between a 20 to 60 percent rate of return.”

The senators also wrote that this increased funding would prepare the food and agricultural sector for future challenges including global population growth, sustainability, changing weather patterns, and plant and animal diseases.

The letter was led by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.). Along with Wyden, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-introduce-legislation-to-mandate-civil-rights-offices-in-federal-agencies-that-handle-artificial-intelligence,"Wyden, Merkley Introduce Legislation to Mandate Civil Rights Offices in Federal Agencies that Handle Artificial Intelligence",2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they have joined Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) to introduce the Eliminating Bias in Algorithmic Systems (BIAS) Act to ensure that every federal agency that uses, funds, or oversees artificial intelligence has an office of civil rights focused on combating AI bias and discrimination, among other harms.

“There is no place for racial and ethnic bias in Oregon and across the nation, and that same mindset must apply to technology,” said Wyden. “As technology takes its next huge leap with artificial intelligence, it is absolutely fundamental that it is developed with no danger that it’s misused to discriminate against any person or group.”

“Algorithms play a significant role in the way society interacts and behaves every single day, whether we like it or not,” said Senator Merkley. “Because we know AI has the potential to exacerbate discrimination and inequality, federal agencies that employ the use of AI must have safeguards and boundaries in place to combat discrimination and bias.”

Wyden and Merkley said the legislation would also require every civil rights office to report their efforts to Congress and provide recommendations for congressional action.

Many federal agencies lack civil rights offices whose principal mission is to protect vulnerable communities across the United States. There are only 30 civil rights offices within the federal government, yet many are not required to secure staff with the expertise needed to advise the agency on algorithmic bias and discrimination.

The legislation was led by Markey. Along with Wyden and Merkley, the bill also was co-sponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-mcgarvey-lead-effort-improve-family-access-housing-assistance,"Bonamici, McGarvey Lead Effort to Improve Family Access to Housing Assistance",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [12/13/23] – Today Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Morgan McGarvey (D-KY) led 25 of their colleagues in drawing attention to the decline in federal housing assistance programs for families with children.

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit are two of the largest federal housing programs that can help prevent homelessness. Unfortunately, data from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on Section 8 vouchers shows that families with children have received a smaller share of voucher recipients over the last decade.

“The Biden Administration has shown historic dedication to improving opportunities for homeownership and increasing protections for families who rent,” the Representatives wrote. “Unfortunately, the number of families experiencing homelessness is on the rise nationally. We write to request information from your agencies so we can work together to improve federal programs to better serve vulnerable families.”

In 2009, households with children received 42 percent of the benefits from subsidized HUD programs. By 2022, that percentage had declined to 33 percent. This includes Section 8 choice vouchers, public housing, and project-based vouchers.

The letter requests HUD and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provide information on policies to enhance support for families and youth at risk of homelessness, including:

Data on how many new families are being accepted in federal housing programs;

A breakdown of information about families’ access to developments subsidized by the Low Income Housing Tax Credit and Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers;

Confirmation of the downward trend of families with children accessing federally subsidized housing and details on what may be the potential causes;

Information on initiatives HUD and IRS are undertaking to promote housing stability for families

The letter is supported by First Focus Campaign for Children and SchoolHouse Connection.

“Access to safe and affordable housing is critical for healthy child development, yet publicly available data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development shows that over the past decade, families with children are a declining share of subsidized housing recipients,” said Bruce Lesley, President, First Focus Campaign for Children. “First Focus Campaign for Children applauds Reps. Bonamici, McGarvey, and the rest of the signers for prioritizing children by sending this letter to HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge and IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel to inquire about this concerning trend, as well as ask for more information about actions taken by HUD and the IRS to increase support for families and youth experiencing homelessness and housing instability.”

In addition to Bonamici and McGarvey, the letter was signed by 25 of their colleagues, including Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Dwight Evans (D-PA), John Garamendi (D-CA), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA), Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Doris Matsui (D-CA), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Scott Peters (D-CA), Delia Ramirez (D-IL), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Andrea Salinas (D-OR), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), Janice Schakowsky (D-IL), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), David Trone (D-MD), Juan Vargas (D-CA), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), and Nikema Williams (D-GA).

Bonamici is a Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Homelessness. Bonamici and McGarvey also lead the bipartisan, bicameral Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act together.

The full text of the letter can be found here and below.

Dear Secretary Fudge and Commissioner Werfel,

We write today to inquire about efforts to safeguard affordable housing for families in the United States. The Biden Administration has shown historic dedication to improving opportunities for homeownership and increasing protections for families who rent. Unfortunately, the number of families experiencing homelessness is on the rise nationally.1 We write to request information from your agencies so we can work together to improve federal programs to better serve vulnerable families.

The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers are our largest programs to secure housing stability for vulnerable Americans. It is essential that all our federal housing programs, but especially LIHTC and Section 8, directly serve the needs of low- income families. There is a potentially concerning trend of fewer fami lies with children accessing stable housing through federal assistance, especially LIHTC2and Section 8 vouche rs3. The database on the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s website shows t hat the percent of people with children in subsidized housing nationally has fallen to 33 percent,4which is the lowest percentage in a decade and an overall decline of eight percent from 2010.

According to research from the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, the number of families receiving rent assistance fell by 250,000 or 13 percent from 2004 to 2016.

Although Congress has not provided needed investments to expand federal housing programs to fully meet the demands of our housing crisis, we remain concerned about fewer and fewer families with children being served by these programs. We ask that you provide responses to the following questions:

Do your agencies have data showing how many new families are being accepted in federal housing programs?

Please provide a breakdown of information about families’ access to developments subsidized by the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers.

Does data available to your agencies reflect a downward trend of families with children accessing federally subsidized housing? If so, please detail the cause of this trend, including whether it is related to any or a combination of the following:

Prioritization of people other than families with children by housing developers or local and state housing agencies;

Rehabilitation and construction of units that are not accessible to families with children;

Children in families who entered housing developments moving out and the rest of their family staying, which in turn keeps these units off the market;

Discrimination based on source of income or familial status by landlords against vouchers or other screening practices that disproportionately harm low-income families with children; and,

Lack of accessible units for families with children because of limited appropriations for housing programs.

What initiatives is HUD taking to promote housing stability for families?

What resources are needed to fully meet the mission of the Family Unification Program?

When does HUD anticipate publishing guidance to better integrate services with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in response to the 2021 report, GAO-21-540?5

How will family housing stability be integrated into the LGBTQI+ Youth Homelessness Initiative?6

The need for expanded resources to address housing and houselessness is clear. As demonstrated by the Emergency Rental Assistance Program created during the COVID-19 pandemic, dedicated federal resources prevent evictions, improve wellbeing and financial security, and fill gaps to mitigate housing cost increases. We remain committed to addressing underinvestment in housing and making housing and homeownership affordable and achievable for all Americans. It is essential that Congress addresses this important issue, and our effort must be coupled with policies that remove barriers to family access and enhance coordination of the full spectrum of services for people at risk of or experiencing homelessness.

Thank you again for your dedication to making affordable housing attainable for all Americans. We look forward to your answers and opportunities to partner with you to deliver the resources needed so everyone has a safe and affordable place to call home.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-gluesenkamp-perez-moore-urge-federal-government-expand-use-mass-timber,"Salinas, Gluesenkamp Perez, Moore Urge Federal Government to Expand Use of Mass Timber in Federal Buildings",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,OR,Andrea Salinas,S001226,salinas.house.gov,salinas,https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – This week, U.S. Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), and Barry Moore (AL-02) led a bipartisan letter to the General Services Administration (GSA) encouraging expanded use of mass timber in federal buildings.

In the letter, the lawmakers express concern that while the GSA recently awarded $2 billion in Inflation Reduction Act funding for 150 projects, none of the funds were awarded to projects using sustainable wood products, including mass timber.

Utilizing wood products is critical for supporting rural jobs and reducing wildfire risk, and it is one of the most effective ways to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings. These products come from renewable resources, store carbon, and don’t require the same fuel-intensive manufacturing process common for other other building materials.

“Countries around the world have made building with wood a top priority to reach climate goals, yet our own federal government continues to lag in its adoption of low-embodied carbon wood products,” wrote the lawmakers. “As GSA continues to take steps to reduce the carbon footprint for the built environment within its real estate portfolio, we strongly urge you to ensure that low-embodied carbon wood products, such as mass timber, play a role.”

Across the United States, the forest products industry directly employs roughly 925,000 people and indirectly supports nearly 2 million jobs.

“I am deeply concerned about GSA’s decision not to award Inflation Reduction Act funding to projects that use sustainable wood products. As a lead sponsor of the bipartisan Timber Innovation for Building Rural Communities Act, I believe we must invest in our working forests and help make them more resilient to wildfires and climate change,” said Rep. Salinas. “I join my colleagues in urging the Administration to utilize sustainable wood products moving forward, and I will continue working to ensure Oregon’s critical mass timber industry gets the support it deserves from our federal government.”

“If we want to support Southwest Washington timber economies, prevent wildfires, and rebuild meaningful jobs in the trades, our federal government needs to lead by example by building with home-grown wood products,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “I appreciate the support of my bipartisan colleagues to help ensure federal dollars going out the door make it to our local loggers and tradespeople. It’s what’s good for rural Americans and it’s what’s good for our environment.”

“Building with mass timber is a great way to leverage value-added properties of American timber,” said Rep. Moore. “Our foresters here in Alabama and across America deserved the chance to benefit from these construction projects, and I hope the Biden Administration will consider them in the future.”

The letter was also signed by Reps. Sanford Bishop (GA-02), Jim Costa (CA-21), Don Davis (NC-01), John Garamendi (CA-08), Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), and Glenn Thompson (PA-15).

Full text of the letter can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-over-36-million-for-safer-streets-heading-to-marion-umatilla-and-clackamas-counties,"Merkley, Wyden: Over $3.6 Million for Safer Streets heading to Marion, Umatilla, and Clackamas Counties",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced a total of $3,669,840 in federal funding heading to three Oregon counties to develop and update comprehensive road and street safety plans.

“Whether walking, driving, or biking, Oregonians in every corner of the state deserve safe streets in their communities to get where they need to go,” said Merkley. “These investments will transform Oregon’s roadways in Marion, Umatilla, and Clackamas counties into safer places for bicyclists, pedestrians, and drivers. I will continue working to ensure every Oregonian is able to move about their daily lives conveniently, without fear of accident or injury.”

“Oregonians deserve to be safe on our streets no matter whether they’re on foot, on a bike or in a car,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified this federal investment will help ensure safer roadways in Clackamas, Marion and Umatilla counties, and I’ll keep battling for similar community livability resources in every corner of the state.”

These plans will integrate equity and community engagement and align with the requirements for the action plan in the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program, which was created under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Safe Streets and Roads for All awards can be found below:

$2.8 million to the City of Salem to update its existing Vision Zero Plan to meet SS4A Action Plan requirements by installing 20 MPH signs on residential streets, acquiring speed radar trailers and signs, and piloting an associated education campaign. This pilot demonstration activity will provide valuable data on the effectiveness of speed limit reductions in residential areas.

$539,840 to Umatilla County to update the City of Umatilla and Umatilla County’s comprehensive action plan.

$330,000 to Clackamas County to update the county’s existing Transportation Safety Action Plan to integrate equity and community engagement and align the plan with the SS4A Action Plan requirements.

“We’ve been lobbying our state and federal partners and hoping that something like this would come through. Keeping our streets safe to bike on, walk on, and drive on is a huge issue for every growing city. This is going to be a tremendous help in saving the lives of our residents,” said Mayor Chris Hoy, City of Salem.

""We are grateful, once again, for the advocacy and hard work from Senators Merkley and Wyden to ensure the safety of all Oregonians and our visitors who use our roadways. It was the efforts of Senators Merkley and Wyden that largely lead the way of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) that established the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program that gave us this opportunity to apply. These funds will bring us closer to reaching the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Roadway Safety Strategy to reduce or eliminate roadway deaths through a Safe System Approach. We are also excited at the opportunity to work collaboratively with Umatilla County, once again, through our complementary projects. The County's Asset Management & Real-Time Transportation Situational Awareness System initiative will focus on all transportation systems in the unincorporated areas of the County, while the City of Umatilla's Action Plan will focus specifically on the needs and priorities within City limits. The result will be a large step forward for our collaborative populations towards making our respective transportation systems safer for all. Both the City and County are committed to coordinating these development efforts in the region to increase the effectiveness and safety of our roads; an effort that was unlikely to be made possible without the assistance of the SS4A funds,” said City Manager, David Stockdale, City of Umatilla.

“Clackamas County is proud to be the first county in the US to have adopted a Transportation Safety Action Plan with a goal to reduce and eventually eliminate fatal and serious injury crashes,” said Chair Tootie Smith, Clackamas County. “This Safe Streets for All grant will help the County enhance this important work to create safer roads in our rural and suburban communities alike.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-lead-bipartisan-push-for-clear-guidance-on-the-new-free-application-for-federal-student-aid,"Wyden, Colleagues Lead Bipartisan Push for Clear Guidance on the New Free Application for Federal Student Aid",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he’s joined Senate colleagues from both parties to urge federal officials to provide clear guidance and communication to students, families, educators, college access counselors, and schools leading up to and after the release of the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The redesigned FAFSA will make it easier for students to get financial aid and help 1.5 million more students access the maximum Pell Grant award.

“We understand that overhauling the current application and reconfiguring the federal student aid system requires significant time, preparation, and resources. However, despite a one-year delay in the implementation process, the Department recently announced the new FAFSA will be available to students by December 31, 2023, with no indication of an actual date,” the senators wrote in a letter to the federal Department of Education.

“Further, the Department’s latest announcement also revealed that processing delays will take place in the first few months of 2024, meaning that schools will not be able to generate financial aid offers for their students in a timely fashion,” the senators wrote. “While the simplified FAFSA is meant to provide more students with federal student aid, we fear the most vulnerable students will be negatively impacted by these delays.”

The lawmakers wrote, “FAFSA delays can be particularly burdensome for students who lack reliable broadband access, students in foster care, students experiencing homelessness, first-generation students, students experiencing financial insecurity, and so many more.”

The letter was led by Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Charles E. Grassley (R-Iowa) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.). Along with Wyden, the letter is signed by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Conn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Bob Casey (D-PA), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-M.M.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.).

The letter is endorsed by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA), National College Attainment Network (NCAN), and SchoolHouse Connection.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-and-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-reduce-foam-container-pollution,"Wyden, Merkley and Colleagues Introduce Bill to Reduce Foam Container Pollution",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said today they have joined Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland to introduce legislation that would phase out single-use plastic foam food service products, “loose fill” such as packing peanuts, and non-medical disposable coolers – materials known to harm human health and pollute waterways.

The Farewell to Foam Act they introduced along with Senate and House colleagues would reduce plastic foam pollution nationwide by requiring food service providers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to transition their stock of expanded polystyrene products such as foodware, coolers, and loose packing fill to alternative materials by January 1, 2026.

“Communities in Oregon and across the nation suffer from the effects of pollution, and eliminating one of the contributors from single use plastic foam containers is a major step in improving public health,“ Wyden said. “There are plenty of sustainable alternatives that can replace single-use foam containers. Switching would benefit our communities and help tackle climate change at the same time.”

“This single-use, dangerous plastic foam product is not recyclable, not biodegradable, and pollutes our planet – but also is known to cause increased rates of cancer and disrupt the human endocrine system,” said Merkley, who this year led the Senate’s first ever hearings on plastics. “Single-use plastics are a human health crisis, a crisis that can be solved by producing and using more sustainable alternatives.”

The bill also would authorize the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to impose escalating penalties on establishments that violate the expanded polystyrene prohibition during one calendar year: $250 for the first violation, $500 for the second, and $1,000 for the third and subsequent violations. Service providers and retailers with annual revenue less than $1 million and manufacturers and distributors with annual revenue less than $5 million will not be penalized more than once during any seven-day period. The legislation provides exemptions for expanded polystyrene material used for medical, industrial, or safety purposes.

The legislation was led by Senator Van Hollen, D-Md, and U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas. Along with Wyden and Merkley, the bill also was co-sponsored in the Senate by the U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Angus King, I-Maine, Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Peter Welch, D-Vt.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-reintroduces-legislation-to-boost-jobs-in-health-care,Wyden Reintroduces Legislation to Boost Jobs in Health Care,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced he reintroduced legislation that reauthorizes and modernizes the Health Profession Opportunity Grant program to help address health care shortages in Oregon and nationwide and create pathways to high quality, in-demand health care careers.

“Addressing the nation's health care worker shortage means helping struggling families with job opportunities,” said Wyden.""That’s why I’m proud to introduce legislation that would provide job training, child care, transportation and more to help low-income families in Oregon and nationwide begin well-paid careers as health professionals.”

The Pathways to Health Careers Act would help to address health care provider shortages, provide pathway to well-paid, in-demand career opportunities in health care.

Created by the Affordable Care Act in 2010, the Health Profession Opportunity Grant Program stands out among other job training approaches because of the mix of support services, career coaching, job placement, and post-employment training provided as part of the program. The program helps increase the number of qualified health professionals in rural, Tribal, and urban areas in need of more workers. The Health Profession Opportunity Grant Program expired in September 2021. The Pathways to Health Careers Act would reauthorize and modernize the program.

To date, the Health Profession Opportunity Grant Program has served over 60,000 participants in 32 programs across 23 states. The Pathways to Health Careers Act would restart and expand the Health Profession Opportunity Grant Program, providing $425 million to make the Health Profession Opportunity Grant available nationwide from FY2024 through FY2028 and includes set asides for Tribes and U.S. Territories.

Alongside Wyden the legislation was led by U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich, D-N.M. The bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Catherine Cortez-Masto, D-Nev., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., and Chris Murphy, D-Conn. U.S. Representative Danny Davis, D-Ill. led the legislation in the House.

The Pathways to Health Careers Act has been endorsed by Ascend at the Aspen Institute, Ascend at the Aspen Institute, Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions, Center for Law and Social Policy, and others.

A fact sheet is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-urges-senate-judiciary-committee-to-support-judge-amy-baggios-nomination,Wyden Urges Senate Judiciary Committee to Support Judge Amy Baggio’s Nomination,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Watch a video of Wyden deliver his remarks here

As prepared for delivery

Chairman Durbin, Ranking Member Graham, members of the committee, I’m very pleased to join you this morning to introduce Judge Amy Baggio, nominee for the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon.

Judge Baggio comes before the Committee today with extensive experience as both a jurist and a litigator. That experience includes four years on the bench as a judge with the Multnomah County Circuit Court, as well as 18 years practicing criminal defense. That includes a decade as a public defender, ensuring that defendants have counsel as is guaranteed under the Sixth Amendment. As a lawyer, she focused on especially complex cases and has argued before the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon as well as the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. In her career on the bench, she has presided over hundreds of civil and criminal matters and handled 42 trials, half of which were jury trials. Throughout her career as a judge, it is a testament to Judge Baggio’s fairness that she has never had any party, either the defense or prosecution, file a request for a different judge.

In addition to being fair, she has consistently demonstrated an ability to make thoughtful decisions that protect communities and their values. For example, in one case, she sentenced a man to 34 years in prison for disturbing crimes, including first degree sexual abuse. That sentence was more than five times as long as the 75 month sentence sought by defense counsel. Despite an appeal from the defense on multiple issues, her decisions in that case were ultimately affirmed. This is just one of many examples in a record that is proof positive of her dedication to the law and extraordinary competence in applying it.

I could go on and on about her judiciary accomplishments, but I also want to talk about Judge Baggio’s volunteer experience mentoring the next generation of judicial talent. As an attorney, Judge Baggio long served as a mentor for newer lawyers, and following her appointment to the bench, she continued this through her roles with mentorship programs at the Oregon State Bar and the Oregon Judicial Department. She also spent a number of years volunteering at an elementary school, providing support to help individual students with reading. This is evidence of the deep care she has for her community and the time and energy she commits to giving back to those both inside and outside of the legal community.

It’s clear why Judge Baggio advanced through a bipartisan judicial selection committee made up of a broad range of legal professionals that I established with Senator Merkley. That committee evaluated Judge Baggio’s qualifications and character and was obviously impressed. And it is no surprise that she received a unanimous “well qualified” rating from the American Bar Association. Her judicial temperament, evenhandedness, compassion, and dedication to the law will serve the District Court of Oregon well. I urge all members of this committee to support Judge Baggio’s nomination, and I will happily speak further with any member to help get her nomination approved.

Congratulations again to Judge Baggio on her nomination, and thank you again to Chairman Durbin and the committee for the opportunity to introduce her this morning.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases/bentz-releases-statement-following-todays-wwf-hearing-snake-river-dams,Bentz Releases Statement Following Today's WWF Hearing on the Snake River Dams,2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,OR,Cliff Bentz,B000668,bentz.house.gov,bentz,https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - “Today’s Congressional hearing called out the Biden Administration for engaging in secret discussions to breach the four lower Snake River dams, to impose upon the people of the northwest billions in costs to replace thousands of megawatts of clean reliable power generated by these dams, and, if that was not enough, to force the people of the Northwest to inequitably pay billions in higher utility rates under the guise of building fish runs to levels not seen in centuries.” – Congressman Cliff Bentz

Click here to watch today's hearing.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-house-panel-probe-biden-admins-negotiations-eco-groups-trying-tear-down,ICYMI: House panel to probe Biden admin's negotiations with eco groups trying to tear down key power source,2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,OR,Cliff Bentz,B000668,bentz.house.gov,bentz,https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"https://www.foxnews.com/politics/house-panel-probe-biden-admins-negotiations-eco-groups-trying-tear-down-key-power-source

By Thomas Catenacci - Fox News

FIRST ON FOX: A top House panel is probing the Biden administration's negotiations with left-wing environmental groups seeking to remove four hydroelectric dams in Washington to protect salmon.

The House Natural Resources Committee's Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries Subcommittee will hold a hearing next week, on Dec. 12, where it will review efforts to effectively dismantle the dams — which are a key source of clean energy and which enable agricultural transport — and related litigation. Experts and industry groups will speak at the hearing about the importance of the four federally-managed dams.

""Pacific Northwest residents should be extremely concerned,"" Rep. Cliff Bentz, R-Ore., who chairs the subcommittee, told Fox News Digital in an interview. ""It's exactly what we've been saying for years — that we have unelected folks, bureaucrats, especially in the [Council on Environmental Quality], dramatically exceeding their authority and basically stepping outside the description of what they have the power to do reflected in National Environmental Protection Act.""

Bentz said that he hopes witnesses will be able to highlight how removing, or breaching, the dams will impact electricity rates consumers pay and farmers who transport hundreds of thousands of tons of food, especially wheat, aided by the dams. The four dams are located on the lower Snake River, which winds through Idaho and Washington before feeding into the Columbia River and then into the Pacific Ocean.

The hearing next week is set to feature Scott Simms, the CEO and executive director of the Public Power Council; Neil Maunu, the executive director of the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association; and Humaria Falkenberg, the power resources manager at the Pacific County Public Utility District in Raymond, Washington.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Administrator Richard Spinrad and White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) Chairwoman Brenda Mallory both declined to attend the hearing. John Hairston, the administrator and CEO of the Bonneville Power Administration in Portland, Oregon, also declined to attend.

The four dams on the lower Snake River have been thrust into the spotlight in recent months and years as environmental organizations and some Democrats have argued the dams have decimated salmon and Steelhead populations, According to Columbia Riverkeeper, an Oregon eco group, the dams transformed the river into ""a series of warm, shallow lakes where predators, dam turbines and hot water kill too many migrating salmon.""

In addition, such groups have filed litigation against the federal government in an effort to force the dams to be breached. In November, though, environmental plaintiffs agreed to pause litigation through mid-December after a mediation was crafted with federal defendants that states action must be taken to save fish in the Snake River.

""We agree that business as usual — and the consequential disappearance of salmon and other native fish populations in the Columbia River Basin — is unacceptable,"" the mediation, which was confidential until it was leaked last week, states. ""And while there is still time to save these fish, there is no time to waste.""

The mediation notes that Democratic Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., released recommendations last year to quickly deploy green energy in the region to account for lost power were the four dams to be torn down. The document later notes the region must account for power to replace energy services currently provided by the dams.

""Instead of working with all interests, the U.S. Government chose for months to hold secret negotiations and refused to share any details with us, let alone allow our participation,"" said the executive directors of Northwest RiverPartners, the Public Power Council, and the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association, which collectively represent power utilities, ports, agriculture companies and other businesses dependent on the dams.

""It is not surprising, then, that this proposal turns its back on over three million electricity customers as well as the farming, transportation, navigation, and economic needs of the region,"" they continued. ""By purposely excluding our respective organizations from the negotiations, literally millions of Northwest residents were deprived of fair representation in this process.""

The American Public Power Association and National Rural Electric Cooperative Association also blasted the leaked mediation last week, saying ""it would jeopardize electric reliability and increase costs for millions of Americans throughout the Pacific Northwest.""

After the mediation was leaked last week, the White House CEQ told Fox News Digital that breaching the lower Snake River dams would require congressional authorization ""and is therefore not an action that could be agreed to through the mediation.""

However, Bentz said while the federal government isn't able to breach the dams without congressional action, it could ""operationally neuter"" the dams under a legal order.

""They're not talking about breaching,"" Bentz told Fox News Digital. ""They're talking about operating them in a fashion that doesn't generate power and doesn't allow navigation. They will just be a big block of concrete in the river, around which the water will run.""

The dams were constructed in the 1960s and 1970s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers primarily to ensure the Snake River was passable for barge transportation. However, since then, the main benefit has been their reliable clean energy output. They still provide about 8% of the state's electricity, enough to serve millions of residents, and have a large total capacity of 3,000 megawatts.

Removing the dams would also likely chip away at U.S. climate goals since their energy production would likely need to be replaced by fossil fuel alternatives. According to federal data, replacing hydropower generated by the dams with natural gas generation would increase carbon emissions by up to 2.6 million metric tons per year, the equivalent of 421,000 passenger cars.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-fitzpatrick-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-boost-education-research,"Bonamici, Fitzpatrick Introduce Bipartisan Legislation  to Boost Education Research",2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [12/11/23] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced bipartisan legislation to accelerate innovation in teaching and learning by establishing a national center to promote informed-risk, high-reward education research.

The New Essential Education Discoveries (NEED) Act of 2023 would create a National Center for Advanced Development in Education (NCADE) with the purpose of developing and disseminating effective practices and tools to improve students’ academic performance and close longstanding achievement gaps. The NCADE would be the fifth center under the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) and follow a successful model similar to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).

“Investing in education research will support the development of literacy skills and other critical components of a well-rounded education, help students get back on track after the pandemic disrupted learning, and more,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “The NEED Act will focus on innovative approaches and technologies in education and will improve implementation of education R&D. These critical investments are designed to strengthen teaching and learning to reach more students—particularly students who face the greatest opportunity gaps.”

“Congress has the responsibility to ensure that students across America have the resources available to reach their full potential,” said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. “Our bipartisan NEED Act will create a national center dedicated to developing innovative tools based on data and technological advances to help close learning gaps, and I am proud to join Congresswoman Bonamici on this important legislation.”

“Everyone should have the information they need to make informed decisions about their own education and workforce pathways, support individuals navigating these pathways, and create policies that might help others navigate smoother pathways,” said Jennifer Bell-Ellwanger, president and CEO, Data Quality Campaign. “Data Quality Campaign applauds the efforts of Rep. Bonamici and Rep. Fitzpatrick to reimagine statewide longitudinal data systems as tools for providing better support, transparency, and high-quality data to individuals navigating their journeys through education and the workforce.”

""For years, our nation has asked our teachers to innovate in a classroom environment that continues shifting - teachers have stepped up to meet that challenge,"" said Kira Orange Jones, CEO of Teach Plus. ""It is essential we stand alongside teachers and students by creating the infrastructure to use new data and research to meet the demands of a 21st century education and the learning challenges American children face. The NEED Act will create an infrastructure that helps to innovate schools and better serve our students.""

The NEED Act would also update Statewide Longitudinal Data Systems (SLDS) and help states better track the progress and outcomes of students through K-12 and into the workforce.

The legislation is endorsed by: Advanced Education Research and Development Fund (AERDF); America Forward; American Educational Research Association; American Federation of Teachers; American Psychological Association Services; Association of Public Data Users (APDU); Beyond100K; CAST, Inc.; Coalition for Community Schools; Committee for Children; Common Sense Media; Data Quality Campaign; Digital Promise Global; EDGE Consulting Partners; Education Reform Now; Educators for Excellence; ExcelinEd in Action; Federation of American Scientists; Formation Ventures; Foundation for American Innovation; InnovateEDU; Institute for Educational Leadership; Knowledge Alliance; Kumar Garg; Schmidt Futures; LearningForge LLC; Lehigh University; Luminary Labs; National Alliance for Public Charter Schools; National Association of Secondary School Principals; National Center for Learning Disabilities; New Classrooms; New Leaders; North Dakota Department of Public Instruction; Results for America; SETDA; Teach Plus; The Education Trust; The Learning Agency; The Society for Research in Child Development (SRCD); The Tech Interactive; Thomas B. Fordham Institute; TNTP; and Transcend.

A summary of the legislation can be found here, and the full text of the legislation can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-demands-federal-review-of-crater-lake-concessionaire-contract,Wyden Demands Federal Review of Crater Lake Concessionaire Contract,2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Senator: Aramark’s failure to live up to its contractual agreements threatens safety of world-renowned national park, its visitors and employees

Washington D.C.—U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he is asking federal officials to act immediately to prevent concessionaire mismanagement from continuing to pose safety risks to Crater Lake National Park, its visitors, and the employees who live and work at this world-renowned natural treasure in southern Oregon.

“The annual concessionaire assessments paint a troubling picture of the concessionaire’s fulfillment of its important responsibilities at Crater Lake National Park over several years,” Wyden wrote in a letter to National Park Service Director Charles F. “Chuck” Sams III,. “The National Park Service records make it clear that the concessionaire has continually failed to fulfill the requirements of the contract.”

In his letter, Wyden wrote that Aramark – doing business as Crater Lake Hospitality – has failed under its concessionaire contract with the National Park Service to perform contractually required maintenance and has created unsafe living conditions for staff.

Wyden’s letter also cited diesel spills at contractor-managed facilities, malfunctioning fire alarm systems and unsatisfactory public health inspections. And it noted the lack of investment and deferred maintenance by the concessionaire has prevented progress on a number of maintenance and improvement projects that the National Park Service has approved.

“After becoming aware of these issues, I directed my staff to conduct an in-person assessment of the conditions at facilities within Crater Lake National Park,” Wyden wrote. “The issues that staff observed during this visit have only served to solidify my understanding of the seriousness of the concessionaire’s failure to plan for and perform important regular maintenance, adequately train staff and address issues that directly threaten safety. “

“It was apparent to my staff that the dedicated National Park Service staff were spending hours of their time trying to manage the situation, are deeply concerned with the safety issues for guests and employees, and share our values of protecting the park,” he wrote. “I am grateful to the National Park Service staff for their dedication to our public lands. It is clear they have prevented the situation from becoming significantly worse through their efforts.

“Despite repeated and documented attempts by the National Park Service to secure performance, it is clear that little progress has been achieved to meaningfully resolve most of these serious issues,” Wyden wrote.

The entire letter is here.

Related Files",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-porter-introduce-legislation-protect-student-borrowers-young,"Bonamici, Porter Introduce Legislation to Protect Student Borrowers, Young Consumers from Unscrupulous Lenders",2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [12/08/23] – Today Congresswomen Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Katie Porter (D-CA) introduced legislation to restore the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's (CFPB) Office for Students and Young Consumers.

Before the Trump administration closed the Office for Students and Young Consumers in 2018, it helped return more than $750 million to students and student loan borrowers who had been cheated or misled by unscrupulous student loan companies and for-profit colleges. They assisted more than 60,000 borrowers who submitted complaints to the CFPB about the student loan industry. The Students and Young Consumers Empowerment Act will reopen the office and strengthen the CFPB’s ability to protect students, prevent fraud, and preserve the integrity of the student loan marketplace and access to affordable higher education.

""Students and young consumers who are seeking to invest in their education should not be cheated by unscrupulous companies or for-profit colleges,"" said Suzanne Bonamici, senior member of the Education and the Workforce Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development. ""The Biden administration has taken many important steps to improve the student loan system and compensate borrowers and students who have been duped or defrauded. But we can do more. Restoring the Office for Students and Young Consumers will provide a needed resource at the CFPB and help create a better, fairer, and more transparent system.”

“When young people get cheated by student loan companies or for-profit colleges, they should have a partner in the federal government they can trust to get them justice,” said Katie Porter, a longtime consumer protection attorney. “A dedicated Office for Students and Young Consumers will prevent student loan borrowers from being overlooked and will be empowered to act on their behalf to crack down on fraudsters. I’m proud to work with Congresswoman Bonamici on this important legislation to hold bad actors accountable for harming our nation’s young people.”

Specifically, the Students and Young Consumers Empowerment Act:

Establishes the position of the Assistant Director and Student Loan Borrower Advocate as head of a statutorily mandated Office for Students and Young Consumers (Office) charged with:

empowering students, young consumers, and their families to make better informed decisions regarding consumer financial products and services;

identifying new risks to consumers and referring cases for enforcement; and

making recommendations to Congress about how to protect young consumers;

Empowers the Office to work with private and Federal student loan borrowers to resolve complaints against lenders, servicers, and debt collectors;

Requires information sharing between the head of the Office and senior officials across the federal government to allow the Office to carry out its duties and effectively protect student loan borrowers;

Gives the Office new tools to demand data from industry about risky practices, and requires annual reports about the student loan marketplace, campus banking, and risks to young consumers; and

Provides Congress with new tools to hold CFPB accountable for the requirements in this Act.

A summary of the legislation can be found here, and the text of the legislation can be found here. It is co-sponsored by Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-votes-against-reauthorizing-warrantless-surveillance-as-part-of-massive-military-policy-bill,Wyden Votes Against Reauthorizing Warrantless Surveillance as Part of Massive Military Policy Bill,2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., opposed reauthorizing warrantless government surveillance of Americans as part of the National Defence Authorization Act (NDAA), in a procedural vote today.

A four-month extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act was added to the NDAA without a vote or debate. Wyden and bipartisan members of Congress have pushed for years to reform that surveillance authority, which has been abused to allow warrantless searches for a U.S. Senator, a member of Congress, and a state court judge, among others.

“Americans know they don’t have to sacrifice their liberty to have security. They want policies that give them both, debated in the light of day,” Wyden said. “I cannot support reauthorizing warrantless surveillance of Americans’ communications without significant reforms and improvements to protect the Constitutional rights of people in Oregon and across the nation. I have introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to reauthorize this surveillance authority with significant new protections for Americans’ rights.”

Although Wyden voted against the NDAA today, he supports a number of provisions within the massive military policy bill. He praised the inclusion of $105 million for an Oregon National Guard special tactics complex in Portland and readiness center in Washington County ($7.5 million more than was included in an earlier version of the bill), as well as a 5.2% pay increase for servicemembers - the largest military pay raise in 20 years.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-bentz-lead-water-wildlife-and-fisheries-hearing-examining-biden,"Chairman Bentz to Lead Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries Hearing Examining the Biden Administration’s Efforts to Eliminate the Pacific Northwest’s Clean Energy Production.",2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,OR,Cliff Bentz,B000668,bentz.house.gov,bentz,https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington DC – Congressman Cliff Bentz (R-OR) announced that on Tuesday, December 12th, the Congressional Subcommittee of Natural Resources on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries will hold a hearing on the Biden Administration's destructive, politicized, unfair, and deceptive scheme to ultimately remove the four lower Snake River Dams.

The Biden Administration's scheme is a direct attack on clean energy production and navigation in the Northwest. These four dams are essential to energy production, navigation on the Snake River into Idaho, and the Northwest’s agricultural industry. Removing or adjusting their operations to negate power generation and river commerce would be devastating. This hearing will expose this Administration's reckless and destructive policies and give the people most impacted by them an opportunity to be heard.

The hearing will feature expert testimony on the economic, environmental, legal, and inequitable impacts that would occur if these dams were removed or operationally destroyed. Witnesses will also discuss the Biden Administration's overreach and abuse of power as shown by its perversion of the court process by use of “sue and settle” tactics.

When: December 12th, 2:00 pm ET

Where to Watch: https://www.youtube.com/@NaturalResourcesGOP",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-seeks-answers-from-justice-department-on-alleged-surveillance-of-apple-and-google-mobile-push-notifications,Wyden Seeks Answers from Justice Department On Alleged Surveillance of Apple and Google Mobile Push Notifications,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., asked the Department of Justice to allow Apple and Google to be more transparent about alleged surveillance of mobile push notifications.

Wyden began investigating possible surveillance of push notification records after receiving a tip that foreign governments had requested such records from Google and Apple. According to the companies, the information they provided Wyden about this practice is restricted from public release by the U.S. government.

“Apple and Google should be permitted to be transparent about the legal demands they receive, particularly from foreign governments, just as the companies regularly notify users about other types of government demands for data,” Wyden wrote, in a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland. “These companies should be permitted to generally reveal whether they have been compelled to facilitate this surveillance practice, to publish aggregate statistics about the number of demands they receive, and unless temporarily gagged by a court, to notify specific customers about demands for their data.”

Push notifications are alerts sent by phone apps to users' smartphones. These alerts pass through a digital post office run by the phone operating system provider - overwhelmingly Apple or Google. Because of that structure, the two companies have visibility into how their customers use apps and could be compelled to provide this information to U.S. or foreign governments.

Read the full letter to the Justice Department here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-statement-on-supplemental-funding-vote,Wyden Statement on Supplemental Funding Vote,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Funding Package for Israel, Ukraine, and Border Security Fails on Procedural Vote Due to Republican Opposition

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., lambasted Senate Republicans after they voted down a supplemental funding bill that included aid to Israel and funding for border security this afternoon.

“Republicans chose to play politics with aid to Israel at the very moment it faces an existential threat,” Wyden said. “Craven is not a strong enough word to describe their actions.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-sullivan-applaud-senate-passage-of-resolution-celebrating-usphs-commissioned-corps-officers,"Wyden, Sullivan Applaud Senate Passage of Resolution Celebrating USPHS Commissioned Corps Officers",2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, today applauded the passage of their resolution commending the officers of the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) for 225 years of work protecting, promoting, and advancing the health and safety of the United States.

""For 225 years, officers of the USPHS Commissioned Corps have honorably served and safeguarded our nation's public health— particularly during times of public health emergencies,"" Wyden said. ""Through their commendable efforts in disease prevention, biomedical research, healthcare and various other initiatives, USPHS officers have played a pivotal role in maintaining the health of our country. I’m especially grateful for their dedication to serving underserved and vulnerable populations. I’m glad the Senate has passed our resolution recognizing the invaluable contributions of USPHS officers and I’ll continue fighting to ensure they have the resources they need to continue their work for generations to come.""

“The Public Health Service Commissioned Corps play a critical role in providing health services to Alaska’s most rural communities,” Sullivan said. “Alaska’s vast, rugged geography and remote communities can make it difficult to access health care, and the Commission Corps have stepped up to the plate. Many of the Commissioned Corps in Alaska serve as our dentists, our nurses, and researchers in our cities and our rural communities. We applaud their commitment to ensuring underserved communities can access health services.”

The USPHS Commissioned Corps is one of the nation’s uniformed services — a branch committed to the service of health. For 225 years, USPHS Commissioned Corps Officers have advanced our nation’s public health, serving in agencies across the government, as physicians, nurses, dentists, veterinarians, scientists, engineers and other professionals. USPHS is the only uniformed service in the world solely dedicated to public health.

Jacqueline Rychnovsky, Executive Director, The Commissioned Officers Association of the USPHS: “The U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) has stood the test of time by responding to the largest public health crises in history. COA congratulates the USPHS on this milestone and looks forward to the impact the USPHS will have in the future. COA thanks Senator Wyden for amplifying the service and sacrifice of the USPHS and its Commissioned Corps, which often does not receive the recognition it deserves.""

The text of the resolution is here.

In July, Wyden introduced legislation that would authorize dedicated annual funding to the USPHS Commissioned Corps. The USPHS is the only uniformed service without a budget line item dedicated to service operations and maintenance. Establishing a budget line item for service operations and readiness is vital to ensure a fully-deployable national public health asset.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-hoyle-announce-over-5-million-for-coastal-fish-habitat-restoration,"Merkley, Wyden, Hoyle Announce Over $5 Million for Coastal Fish Habitat Restoration",2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04), announced a total of nearly $5.5 million in federal investments is heading to Oregon organizations for coastal climate resilience projects and restoring fish habitats. The funding comes from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s National Coastal Resilience Fund, which supports the design and implementation of projects around the country to enhance the resilience of coastal communities and improve habitat for fish and wildlife.

“Our waterways and fish are the lifeblood of the Northwest, particularly coastal communities,” said Merkley. “This critical federal support will prepare our region to better withstand more frequent extreme weather events caused by climate chaos. These projects will help strengthen natural infrastructure while also enhancing habitat for fish populations, including our beloved coho salmon and other native fish species.”

“Protecting Oregon’s coastal wetlands, floodplains and estuaries not only helps fight the devastating effects of climate change, but also helps increase resiliency of coastal communities against extreme weather,” Wyden said. “This investment is a big win for Oregon’s coastal communities, and I will continue to support successful programs proven to help protect and restore our bountiful coastal habitat.”

“I’m glad to see federal funding supporting the Wild Salmon Center and the McKenzie River Trust’s work to restore and protect estuaries and wetlands on the Oregon Coast,” said Rep. Hoyle. “These projects on the Alsea, Coos, Siletz, and Siuslaw rivers in Oregon’s Fourth Congressional District will reduce flood risk for coastal communities and increase habitat for salmon and other native fish species. This is a prime example of how we can effectively support coastal resilience and preserve Oregon’s natural beauty as we combat the challenges of climate change.”

“We are honored and thrilled to have received this grant award from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. These funds will support estuary restoration projects that build on two decades of effort by partners at Ecotrust, the Siuslaw Watershed Council, the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians, the state of Oregon, federal agencies, and many dedicated local community members. They set in motion a Siuslaw Whole Watershed Restoration initiative in 2004, something that gave us all a road map for effective land and water conservation. Congressional support for integrating this work with investments for community infrastructure and resilience shows the wisdom and importance of such long-term, broad scale approaches, especially in the face of a changing climate,” said Joe Moll, Executive Director, McKenzie River Trust.

""Wild Salmon Center and our local partners at the Coos Watershed Association and the Siuslaw Watershed Council are thrilled to receive this grant award from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. These funds will support projects that will reconnect floodplains, which are vital for our threatened salmon populations, while at the same time mitigating risks associated with climate change. This dual approach of species conservation, paired with climate change resilience, will positively benefit both fish and human communities. We are grateful for all the support from Oregon’s congressional members and look forward to implementing these projects over the next three years,” said Tim Elder, Southwest Oregon Manager, Wild Salmon Center.

Oregon project descriptions and award amounts are below:

$3,791,657.49: Wild Salmon Center – Florence and Coos Bay, OR

Extreme weather events threaten human lives and infrastructure, public and private properties, and ecosystems due to the increased severity and frequency of storms. Wild Salmon Center will increase climate resilience in the Coos and Siuslaw watersheds through nine restoration projects that will result in 257.5 acres of restored floodplain and 7.47 miles of restored instream habitat. The project will reduce flood hazards in coastal communities by reducing peak flows and slowing water velocities, improve water retention and quality, and recover economically vital salmon populations.

$1,012,692.18: McKenzie River Trust – Siuslaw River’s estuary and watershed near Florence, Oregon

Coastal communities and habitats are under increasing threats from coastal hazards, such as sea level rise, storm intensification, and other environmental stressors. The McKenzie River Trust will advance final design and permitting to restore the tidal exchange within the currently flow-restricted areas on four properties in the Siuslaw River’s estuary, increasing the availability and protection of vital rearing and feeding habitat for coho salmon and other native fish species. The project will finalize designs to restore a total of 500 acres over the next four years that will enhance the estuary’s ability to absorb the increased sea level impact of storm swells, king tides, and flooding.

$651,021.88: Wild Salmon Center – Nehalem, Lincoln City, Waldport, and Alsea, Oregon

Flood hazards pose a serious risk to urban areas, emergency road infrastructure, and vulnerable rural communities on the Oregon coast. Coastal resiliency to sea level rise and climate change depends upon conserving estuaries and wetlands through restoration of key ecological processes and functions including hydrological connectivity, nutrient cycling, and sediment transport. Wild Salmon Center will create final designs and secure permitting for five wetland systems across three watersheds in Nehalem, Siletz, and Alsea estuaries on the Oregon coast. The project will result in fully designed plans for 249 acres of floodwater storage, seven fish passage improvements across four miles of stream, and the restoration of 30 freshwater wetland acres and 219 acres of tidal wetlands to mitigate flood hazards, reduce erosion, and restore habitat for salmon.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-group-house-members-introduces-bill-protect-older-workers-age,Bipartisan Group of House Members Introduces Bill to Protect Older Workers from Age Discrimination,2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Education and the Workforce Committee Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), Representative Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Subcommittee Ranking Member Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Workforce Protections Subcommittee Ranking Member Alma Adams (NC-12), and Representative Jeff Van Drew (NJ-02) introduced the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act(POWADA), a bipartisan proposal to strengthen anti-discrimination protections for older workers.

In 2009, the Supreme Court’s decision in Gross v. FBL Financial Services, Inc. weakened protections against age discrimination under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). Under Gross, plaintiffs seeking to prove age discrimination in employment are required to demonstrate that age was the decisive motivating factor for the employer’s adverse action.

POWADA returns the legal standard for age discrimination claims to the pre-2009 evidentiary threshold, aligning the burden of proof with the same standards for proving discrimination based on based on race and national origin.

“Discrimination should never be tolerated in the workplace. Yet too often, older workers encounter discrimination on the job or when seeking employment. And when they do, they face barriers to proving their case because workers who experience age discrimination have to meet a higher burden of proof than people claiming discrimination based on race, national origin, or religion. That’s wrong, and it’s time for a remedy. I’m co-leading the bipartisan Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act to restore protections for older workers and give them the ability to hold employers accountable for age discrimination,”said Ranking Member Bonamici (OR-01).

“Everyone—regardless of their age—should be able to go to work every day knowing that they are protected from discrimination. Unfortunately, age discrimination in the workplace is depriving older workers of opportunities and exposing them to long-term unemployment and severe financial hardship. More than a decade ago, the Supreme Court undermined protections for older workers by setting an unreasonable burden of proof for age discrimination claims. The Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act is a bipartisan bill that would finally restore the legal rights of older workers by ensuring that the burdens of proof in age discrimination claims are treated in the same manner as other discrimination claims,”saidRanking Member Scott (VA-03).

“In my mind, the one form of discrimination that is so widespread is age discrimination against older workers. This affects a whole generation of Americans. Countless people aged 50 and up get laid off at a time when they still have mortgages to pay and children to support, and they find it very difficult to find a job. Employers also let go of older individuals as companies look to avoid higher insurance costs. The Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act is a crucial bipartisan initiative that aims to restore legal safeguards for older workers by ensuring that age discrimination claims receive just as much credibility as other claims of workplace discrimination,”said Grothman (WI-06).

“All Americans, regardless of age, should be protected from discrimination in the workplace,”said Congressman Fitzpatrick (PA-01). “Our bipartisan Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act will ensure that age discrimination claims are subject to an appropriate burden of proof, and I am proud to join my colleagues on this legislation to protect workers.”

“We must stand strongly against all forms of discrimination, which includes discrimination against older Americans. Labor law must protect the dignity of all workers and recognize that discrimination against older Americans is discrimination all the same. The Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act (POWADA) will ensure that older workers will be fairly treated in the job market, returning the legal standard for proving discrimination back to its original intent. Discrimination based on age has no place in our workforce,”said Ranking Member Alma Adams (NC-12).

“In America, we uphold the principle of individuals being judged on their abilities, free from discrimination. Everyone, regardless of their age, deserves that same freedom,”said Congressman Van Drew (NJ-02). “For far too long, older workers have faced barriers to employment. This has not only kept capable individuals out of the workforce but has also forced many into unemployment and hardship. I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act to ensure that individuals in South Jersey, and nationwide, have equal opportunities to challenge discrimination, just as younger people do.”

POWADAamends four laws—the Americans with Disabilities Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and the Rehabilitation Act. A similar version of the bill was passed in the House with bipartisan support during the 117th Congress.

Read the fact sheet for the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act here.

Read the section-by-section summary of the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-over-900000-coming-to-the-confederated-tribes-of-the-umatilla-indian-reservation-for-recycling-programs,"Merkley, Wyden Announce Over $900,000 Coming to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation for Recycling Programs",2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is awarding the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) $915,895 for projects to update and improve the Tribes’ recycling plan, and to focus on practical recycling options that center culturally grounded approaches.

“This critical funding for CTUIR will help ensure the Tribe has the resources it needs to implement its new and improved recycling plan,” said Merkley. “This is an environmental win for the CTUIR community that comes at a critical time for our planet.”

“This federal investment in the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation will help the Tribes to move forward with a modern and broader approach to recycling,” Wyden said. “I know from my town hall there earlier this year how hard Tribal members are working to build an even stronger community, and I’m glad the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is providing this grant to help achieve that goal.”

In his role as the Senate Chair of the Environment and Public Works subcommittee overseeing environmental justice and chemical safety, Merkley has been holding a series of hearings investigating plastic production and pollution, one of which has examined reuse and refill systems.

The grant is funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will be used to replace and upgrade recycling equipment, and expand markets for recycled commodities through Tribal community education and recycled materials management.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-central-oregon-organization-earns-300000-federal-grant-to-fight-human-trafficking,"Wyden, Merkley: Central Oregon Organization Earns $300,000 Federal Grant to Fight Human Trafficking",2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that J Bar J Youth Services in Bend has secured a $300,000 federal grant to battle human trafficking.

“The crime of human trafficking devastates lives and demands a serious and substantive effort to end it in Oregon and nationwide,” Wyden said. ”I’m gratified that J Bar J Youth Services has earned these federal resources to fight this scourge in Central Oregon with its local expertise and hard-working staff.”

“We must do everything in our power to protect people from the horrors of human trafficking,” Merkley said. “This essential funding to J Bar J Youth Services will help ensure this critically important organization can continue to support youth in Central Oregon and protect Oregonians from dangerous situations.”

The $300,000 for J Bar J Youth Services from the federal Administration for Children and Families will fund anti-trafficking efforts for domestic victims.

“The at:project is grateful to have received this funding opportunity,” said Breanne Barrett, Program Director for the at:project -- a program of J Bar J Youth Services. “This grant will allow us to extend and enhance crucial services to victims and survivors of human trafficking in Central Oregon. From crisis intervention services to long-term case management, the at:project is committed to supporting survivors through their healing journey. This funding is not just a financial boost; it’s a lifeline for those who need it most. It fuels our passion, determination and commitment to creating a community free of exploitation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-hoyle-announce-833000-to-osu-to-support-oregon-food-safety-outreach,"Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle Announce $833,000 to OSU to Support Oregon Food Safety Outreach",2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley with U.S. Representative Val Hoyle today announced a federal investment of $833,127 for Oregon State University to develop food safety outreach programs.

“Underserved communities in Oregon and across the nation deserve to know their food is both nutritious and safe to eat,” Wyden said. “This federal investment in Oregon State University and its world-class researchers will help ensure those goals by promoting outreach and education while preserving the traditional practices of Tribal and coastal communities.”

“Oregon-grown products are healthy, fresh, and support our local communities and state economy,” said Merkley. “This crucial funding will ensure small to mid-sized farmers are able to access food safety training and education programs from community-based organizations – including safe, traditional Tribal practices – in order to provide Oregonians with healthy and safe food grown in the region.”

“I am delighted that Oregon State University (OSU) received two federal grants from the USDA to support food safety education and outreach,” said Rep. Hoyle. “These grants will specifically support Pacific Island communities and Oregon-based Tribal communities in their collaborative partnerships with OSU on culturally appropriate food safety practices and technical assistance. This grant is a testament to OSU’s expertise and commitment to supporting communities through their research and outreach.”

The funding to OSU, from the USDA National Institute for Food and Agriculture, includes investment for culturally responsive food safety education in Oregon’s tribal communities and for sharing safe methods of processing and preservation for traditional foods. Also included is investment to engage underserved Pacific communities in food safety education and training to address common food safety issues.

“Preserving seasonal foods has been a central part of the food culture of Indigenous people in Oregon since time immemorial, but new technologies and foods have introduced unique food safety risks,” said Jared Hibbard-Swanson, Food Safety and Program Manager with Oregon State University Extension Family and Community Health Program. “I am excited that this federal investment will enable OSU Extension and Tribal communities to work together to establish and teach safe methods for preserving culturally significant foods.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-harshbarger-introduce-bipartisan-bill-expand-telehealth-services-rural,"Salinas, Harshbarger Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Telehealth Services for Rural Americans",2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Andrea Salinas,S001226,salinas.house.gov,salinas,https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Diana Harshbarger (TN-01) introduced the bipartisan Home-Based Telemental Health Care Act, legislation that would expand access to remote mental health and substance use services in rural America, especially for individuals working in the farming, fishing, and forestry industries. U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD) and Tina Smith (D-MN) are leading a companion bill in the Senate.

“Accessing mental health care shouldn’t require an in-person visit, especially for Americans in rural areas who have to travel long distances to see a provider,” said Rep. Salinas. “Our bipartisan bill would expand telemental health services in rural Oregon, with an emphasis on those working in the farming, fishing, and forestry industries. This legislation would save folks time and resources and help more Oregonians get the care they need, when they need it.”

“As a community pharmacist for over three decades in one of the country’s most rural Congressional Districts, I understand the challenges patients face in underserved areas,” said Rep. Harshbarger. “By expanding access to telemental health services, this common-sense legislation will help improve patient outcomes.”

The Home-Based Telemental Health Care Act would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in coordination with the Rural Health Liaison of the Department of Agriculture, to award grants to entities to establish mental health and substance use services for rural Americans in their homes, particularly those working in farming, fishing, and forestry occupations. It would also authorize up to $10 million for each fiscal year through 2027 using current funds.

The legislation is endorsed by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), NAMI Oregon, National Rural Health Association, Oregon Rural Health Association, American Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association, Oregon Council for Behavioral Health, Oregon Cattlemen’s Association, Oregon Psychiatric Physicians Association, and Friends of Family Farmers.

“The National Rural Health Association applauds Representatives Salinas and Harshbarger for their introduction of The Home Based Telemental Health Care Act of 2023,” said Alan Morgan, Chief Executive Officer of the National Rural Health Association. “This important legislation creates a telemental health demonstration program designed to address specific behavioral health and substance use needs for folks in farming, fishing, and forestry occupations. This bill will increase access to behavioral health and substance use services for our most rural and medically underserved populations.”

“The Oregon Council for Behavioral Health, as a non-profit trade association with a wide representation of rural and frontier providers, greatly appreciates and supports the Home Based Telemental Health Act of 2023,” said Heather Jefferis, M.A., Executive Director of the Oregon Council for Behavioral Health. “This bill will help expand access for communities and individuals who have significant barriers to care, including geographic distance, stigma, and a lack of providers in their community. We extend our gratitude to Congress for their attention to our rural and frontier communities’ needs. Thank you for helping local providers save lives.”

""The Friends of Family Farmers is so grateful to Representatives Salinas and Harshbarger for taking on this effort,"" said Alice Morrison, Co-Director of the Friends of Family Farmers. ""Expanding telemental health options is a vital, tangible way to improve access to mental health services for our farmers, ranchers and others in rural communities. Everyone should have equitable access to care, and this legislation will help make that possible.”

To read the full text of this legislation, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-nsa-must-answer-whether-it-is-buying-americans-location-data-and-web-browsing-records-before-new-director-is-confirmed,Wyden: NSA Must Answer Whether it is Buying Americans’ Location Data and Web Browsing Records Before New Director Is Confirmed,2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Wyden Places Hold on Nomination of Lt. Gen. Timothy Haugh Until NSA Answers Basic Questions About Purchases of Americans’ Data

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., announced he will place a hold on the nomination of Lt. Gen. Timothy Haugh to serve as director of the National Security Agency (NSA) until the NSA discloses whether it is buying Americans’ location data and web browsing records.

In a statement placed in the Congressional record this afternoon, Wyden said the Defense Department has refused to make public important information about purchases of Americans’ personal data — information that the government has already acknowledged is not classified.

“The American people have a right to know whether the NSA is conducting warrantless domestic surveillance of Americans in a manner that circumvents the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution,” he said, in a statement placed in the Congressional Record. “Particularly as Congress is currently debating extending Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, Congress must be able to have an informed public debate about the scope of the NSA’s warrantless surveillance of Americans.”

Wyden is the longest-serving member of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a staunch advocate for protecting the security of Americans without sacrificing their Constitutional rights. He first asked for information about DOD data purchases to be released in 2021, but the department refused to release it, even though the answer is not classified.

Wyden did not raise objections to Lt. Gen. Haugh’s qualifications in his hold statement. A hold is a Senate procedure that prevents shortcuts to speed up consideration of a nominee. It can be overcome by a procedural vote.

The full statement for the Congressional Record is below:

Mr. WYDEN. Madam President, I must regretfully object to the promotion of Lt. Gen. Timothy Haugh to the grade of general, and consequently, to be the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander of U.S. Cyber Command.

In January of 2021, I made public an unclassified memo I received from the Defense Intelligence Agency revealing that it was purchasing, retaining, and using location data revealing the movements of Americans. After receiving that information, I pressed the Department of Defense to identify which other agencies within the Department are buying Americans’ personal data, including location data and web browsing records.

The Department provided me with that information in March of 2021, but marked the information “Controlled Unclassified Information” (CUI) — a made-up designation with no basis in law. The Administration is abusing the C-U-I designation to keep this unclassified information from the American public. In May of 2021, I wrote to Secretary of Defense Austin to urge him to remove the restrictions on that information, so that the American people can be told which agencies are buying their information without court oversight, and so that Congress can conduct appropriate oversight. In August of 2021, I received a response letter from the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security, declining to clear the information for public release.

In connection with Lt. Gen. Haugh’s pending promotion to lead the NSA, I narrowed my request. I asked that the American people simply be provided yes or no answers as to whether the NSA is buying their location data and web browsing records. Unfortunately, intelligence officials have been unwilling to release even that basic information.

The American people have a right to know whether the NSA is conducting warrantless domestic surveillance of Americans in a manner that circumvents the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution. Particularly as Congress is currently debating extending Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, Congress must be able to have an informed public debate about the scope of the NSA’s warrantless surveillance of Americans.

Until the NSA publicly releases the information described above, I must object to the Senate proceeding with the Haugh nomination.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-quantum-science-bill-passes-committee-moves-closer-becoming-law,"Salinas’ Quantum Science Bill Passes Committee, Moves Closer to Becoming Law",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Andrea Salinas,S001226,salinas.house.gov,salinas,https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, a bipartisan bill led by U.S. Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Jim Baird (IN-04) passed unanimously out of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee. The Quantum Instrumentation for Science and Engineering Act, introduced last month by Reps. Salinas and Baird, would amend the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act and drastically accelerate quantum research and development in the United States. The legislation now awaits a vote by the full House of Representatives.

“I am deeply proud that my bipartisan bill, the Quantum Instrumentation for Science and Engineering Act, unanimously passed out of committee today.” said Rep. Salinas. “Quantum science has the potential to change lives for the better and vastly improve our communications capabilities. Investing in more research and building a stronger quantum workforce will allow us to fully harness the benefits of these technologies. I am grateful to Congressman Baird and my colleagues on the Committee for their support, and I will continue working to get this legislation to the finish line.”

“Leading the world in quantum research will have huge implications for America’s economy and national security,” said Rep. Baird. “This legislation will elevate research facilities nationwide and facilitate cooperation that will supercharge the industry. I’m incredibly excited to have such broad support for this bill in Committee, and I’m confident we will enjoy similar consensus on the House floor.”

The Quantum Instrumentation for Science and Engineering Act would direct the National Science Foundation (NSF) to award grants to upgrade research facilities and improve access to research resources, such as equipment and instrumentation, to support research and development in quantum information science, technology, and engineering. This bill would also improve coordination to enable better access to these resources among researchers, students, and companies. Finally, it would help the scientific community access the equipment, instrumentation, materials and devices, and other critical services needed to enable cutting-edge research on quantum information science, train the next generation of quantum scientists and workers, and translate research into commercial products and services.

The legislation is endorsed by the Oregon Institute of Technology, University of Oregon, Oregon State University, Purdue University, and Indiana University.

To read the full text of this legislation, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-500000-to-harney-country-for-brownfield-cleanup,"Merkley, Wyden: $500,000 to Harney County for Brownfield Cleanup",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced Harney County has received $500,000 from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to clean up hazardous materials at the two-acre former Lincoln School site in Burns.

“This funding is a major win for Harney County’s natural resources, community member’s health, and the local economy,” said Merkley. “Redeveloping Brownfield sites ignites growth in communities, revitalizes properties long forgotten, and most importantly, creates jobs.”

“This federal investment in Burns will convert an old brownfield into bright new job opportunities and more for this rural community,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified Harney County has secured these federal funds, and will keep working to secure similar resources that help build an even stronger economy and quality of life for all of Eastern Oregon.”

The EPA announced $8,240,000 to expedite the assessment and cleanup of seven brownfield sites in Oregon, of which Harney County was one.

Background:

EPA’s Brownfields Program began in 1995 and has provided nearly $2.37 billion in Brownfield Grants to assess and clean up contaminated properties and return blighted properties to productive reuse. EPA’s investments in addressing brownfield sites have leveraged more than $36 billion in cleanup and redevelopment. Over the years, the relatively small investment of federal funding has leveraged, from both public and private sources, nearly 260,000 jobs. Communities that previously received Brownfields Grants used these resources to fund assessments and cleanups of brownfields, and successfully leverage an average of 10.6 jobs per $100,000 of EPA Brownfield Grant funds spent and $19.78 for every dollar.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-address-rise-in-attacks-on-postal-workers,"Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Address Rise in Attacks on Postal Workers",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden and Senate colleagues today introduced bipartisan legislation that would address the steep increase in armed robberies against postal workers, who are often targeted for their arrow keys that allow access to some mailboxes and their contents.

“For over 200 years the United States Postal Service has been a central fixture of the American government. The recent cases of mail theft and the alarming uptick in assaults against postal workers is unacceptable,” Wyden said. “If Postmaster DeJoy refuses to act, Congress must do everything it can to improve protections for these essential workers.”

The Postal Inspection Service reports that armed robberies of letter carriers increased sharply between 2018 and 2021, rising fourfold from 36 incidents to 154 incidents. The arrow keys can command thousands of dollars on the clandestine market because they allow access to cluster mailboxes and their contents, which include Social Security checks, prescriptions, and other valuable items.

In 2020, under the leadership of Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, the U.S. Postal Service issued a directive that restricted Postal Police Officers to physical USPS properties. This directive has prevented Postal Police Officers from protecting the postal service and the integrity of the postal system outside physical postal properties. Prior to the 2006 Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act, which granted greater authority to USPS to control Postal Law enforcement, Congress regularly granted Postal Police Officers authority to carry out their duties both on and off USPS property through annual appropriations language. The Postal Police Reform Act of 2023 would counteract Postmaster General DeJoy’s 2020 directive and again allow Postal Police Officers to operate outside of Postal Service real property.

The Act would clarify provisions in federal law to ensure that Postal Police Officers may be assigned to duty outside of Postal Service real property, for the purpose of protecting the mail, Postal Service property, persons on Postal Service property, and on-duty Postal Service employees. This clarification will allow the Postal Service to assign Postal Police Officers to protect letter carriers against robberies, which are often committed to steal “arrow” master keys for use in later mail theft. The Postal Police Reform Act provides the Postal Service with the flexibility to use the Postal Police as the service needs, without imposing additional costs on the Postal Service.

The legislation was led by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin, D-Ill., and Susan Collins, R-Maine. Alongside Wyden, the bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Jerry Moran, R-Kan., Ben Cardin, D-Md., Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, John Hickenlooper, D-Colo., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Chris Coons, D-Del., Tim Kaine, D-Va., Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., and Angus King, I-Maine.

The Postal Police Reform Act has earned endorsements from the National Association of Postal Supervisors and the Postal Police Officers Association.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-and-colleagues-issue-joint-statement-on-proposed-threats-to-asylum-system-in-supplemental-aid-package-negotiations,"Wyden, Merkley and Colleagues issue Joint Statement on Proposed Threats to Asylum System in Supplemental Aid Package Negotiations",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley along with Senate colleagues today issued the following joint statement in response to reports of potentially harmful changes to the U.S. asylum system being considered in the ongoing bipartisan negotiations around the supplemental aid package:

“As negotiations surrounding the supplemental aid package progress, we are concerned about reports of harmful changes to our asylum system that will potentially deny lifesaving humanitarian protection for vulnerable people, including children, and fail to deliver any meaningful improvement to the situation at the border. Using a one-time spending package to enact these unrelated permanent policy changes sets a dangerous precedent and risks assistance to our international partners. Any proposal considering permanent changes to our asylum and immigration system needs to include a clear path to legalization for long-standing undocumented immigrants.

“We remain committed to working in good faith to modernize our outdated immigration system on a bipartisan basis and through a deliberative process. We cannot truly secure our border and help American communities without increasing lawful pathways for migration and legalizing long-time undocumented immigrants who put food on our tables, care for our elderly, and form the fabric of our communities.”

The joint statement was led by Senator Alex Padilla, D-Calif.. Along with Wyden and Merkley, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin, D-Ill., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Bob Menendez, D-N.J., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/sullivan-baldwin-bonamici-joyce-lead-legislation-improve-harmful-algal-bloom,"Sullivan, Baldwin, Bonamici & Joyce Lead Legislation to Improve Harmful Algal Bloom Response",2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), and Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.) and Dave Joyce (R-Ohio), have introduced the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act (HABHRCA) of 2023, legislation to reauthorize the HABHRCA of 1998 and to improve monitoring, forecasting, prevention, and mitigation of harmful algal blooms (HABs) and hypoxia by requiring better coordination among task force agencies, and state and local entities, including Indian tribes.

This legislation comes in response to the increasing severity of harmful algal blooms in Alaska, with the 2022 algal bloom in the Bering Strait region being one of the largest and most toxic blooms ever observed nationwide. HABs directly threaten food security and subsistence in Alaska. Additionally, HABs can reduce oxygen levels in the water in events called hypoxia, killing fish and other marine life and harming coastal ecosystems and economies. HABs occur in all 50 states, in rivers, lakes, and coastal waters.

“Harmful algal blooms and hypoxia events are occurring with increasing frequency, threatening the health of our marine and freshwater ecosystems and communities,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “I’m introducing the bipartisan Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act to help people in NW Oregon and across the country better protect against and respond quickly to these disasters.”

“As America’s leading seafood producer and home to more coastline than the contiguous Lower 48 states combined, Alaska is particularly vulnerable to harmful algal blooms,” Senator Sullivan said. “Unchecked HABs can threaten our marine life and coastal ecosystems, the livelihoods of our commercial fisheries and coastal communities, and the health and well-being of Alaskans. It is critical that we develop and coordinate effective responses to harmful algal blooms and efficiently monitor the health of our oceans for the sake of coastal communities, especially subsistence communities, and ecosystems across the country.”

“Our Great Lakes and abundant fresh waters are among Wisconsin’s most valuable resources, supporting wildlife, our economy, and our way of life. I am proud to be a partner in protecting these critical ecosystems from harmful algal blooms that have the potential to endanger our Made in Wisconsin economy and public health,” said Senator Baldwin. “The critical support provided by this bipartisan legislation ensures that we can monitor algal bloom and hypoxia growth in our fresh waters, while preventing and mitigating their spread. I am proud to lead this legislation with Senator Sullivan to ensure generations to come can enjoy and benefit from the Great Lakes and Wisconsin’s inland waters.”

“The shallowest of all the Great Lakes, Lake Erie, is particularly vulnerable to harmful algal blooms, which have plagued the lake for more than 45 years. Any threat to Lake Erie is also a threat to the drinking water supply for 11 million people, our tourism industry, and all the plants and animals that are part of the lake’s ecosystem,” said Congressman Joyce. “I am proud to introduce this bipartisan, bicameral bill to ensure Lake Erie and every state in America is protected from these dangerous threats to our bodies of water.”

A copy of the bill, S.3348, can be found here.

Background:

The original Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Act (HABHRCA) was passed in 1998 and established an interagency task force to assess the distribution of harmful algal blooms and their impacts on coastal waters and human health. HABHRCA has since been reauthorized three times, through FY 2023, and is currently due for reauthorization. This bill reauthorizes the original 1998 HABHRCA, and improves coordination among state and local entities, as well as Indian tribes, to improve monitoring, forecasting, prevention, and mitigation of HABs and hypoxia.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-over-4-million-for-water-conservation-projects-coming-to-oregon,"Merkley, Wyden Announce Over $4 Million for Water Conservation Projects Coming to Oregon",2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Interior Department investments heading to Crooked River Watershed and Deschutes Land Trust

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced a total of $4.1 million in federal investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are heading to the Crooked River Watershed Council and the Deschutes Land Trust. These funds will boost collaborative projects focusing on water conservation, management, and restoration efforts.

“Our waterways and fish are the lifeblood of the Northwest,” said Merkley. “I’ll continue to do all I can to ensure Oregon has the federal resources needed to carry out creative, forward-thinking projects that conserve water, restore healthy native fish populations, and stretch our water resources further.”

“These significant federal resources will help two standout Central Oregon organizations accomplish their crucial goals of conserving water and protecting habitat,” Wyden said. “That adds up to good news for Oregonians in the region who deserve both a dependable water supply and protection of the gifts from nature that make our state such a special place.”

The federal resources for these two projects are part of a $51 million overall investment from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda for 30 new Environmental Water Resource Projects in 11 Western states.

Oregon project descriptions are below:

$1,400,000 — Crooked River Watershed Council, Lower Crooked River Riparian, Floodplain, and Habitat Restoration Project

Hydrology in the Crooked River watershed is impacted by upstream dams, including the Bureau of Reclamation’s Bowman Dam, leading to loss of floodplain continuity, degraded channel structures, and water quality impairments, impacting native Spring Chinook Salmon and Columbia River Steelhead populations that inhabit the watershed. The Crooked River Watershed Council, working in partnership with the Ochoco Irrigation District, will restore habitat and enhance ecological features on two project sites just downstream from the city of Prineville.

$3,000,000 — Deschutes Land Trust, Ochoco Preserve Restoration - Phases 2 and 3

The Crooked River and Ochoco Creek waterways frequently experience low flows, elevated summer stream temperatures, and poor water quality. These issues are compounded by a lack of suitable habitats for both fish and terrestrial wildlife, and the impacts to river ecology of Reclamation’s Crooked River Project, including Bowman and Ochoco Dams. The Deschutes Land Trust, with support from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, will restore aquatic, floodplain, and upland habitat across 124 acres on the Ochoco Preserve, located in Crook County, Oregon, adjacent to the City of Prineville.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/wyden-merkley-bonamici-applaud-43-million-portland-business-contract-support,"Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici Applaud $43 Million Portland Business Contract to Support U.S. Antarctic Program",2023-11-27,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley with U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici today welcomed the announcement that a Portland manufacturer secured a $43.5 million contract from the U.S. Army to develop equipment for research in the Antarctic.

The Portland manufacturer, Gunderson Marine, LLC, will design and build a steel pier barge to support operations at McMurdo Station for the National Science Foundation’s U.S. Antarctic Program.

“The Antarctic is one of the least explored regions in the world, and this contract between Gunderson Marine and the National Science Foundation matches a mainstay Portland business with cutting-edge scientific research,” Wyden said. “This good news means jobs locally and groundbreaking research globally.”

“From Northwest Portland to the South Pole, this partnership betweenGundersonMarineand the National Science Foundation will boost the local economy and lead to a greater understanding of one of the earth’s final frontiers,” Merkley said. “It’s exciting to see a longtime Oregon business take the helm on this opportunity to further critical research in Antarctica and beyond.”

“Oregon manufacturing companies are at the forefront of innovation. This new contract between Gunderson Marine and the National Science Foundation will support research in the Antarctic and advance the development of vessels equipped to handle the extreme conditions of the region,"" Bonamici said. “I had the opportunity to visit Antarctica with the National Science Foundation a number of years ago and know how important this research is to understanding our environment and world.”

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work on this critically important project with great organizations like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the National Science Foundation. This is only the beginning of Gunderson Marine diversifying into other markets since the rail car operation is no longer operating at the facility,” said Dee Burch, Gunderson Marine President.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-bonamici-applaud-43-million-portland-business-contract-to-support-us-antarctic-program,"Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici Applaud $43 Million Portland Business Contract to Support U.S. Antarctic Program",2023-11-27,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley with U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici today welcomed the announcement that a Portland manufacturer secured a $43.5 million contract from the U.S. Army to develop equipment for research in the Antarctic.

The Portland manufacturer, Gunderson Marine, LLC, will design and build a steel pier barge to support operations at McMurdo Station for the National Science Foundation’s U.S. Antarctic Program.

“The Antarctic is one of the least explored regions in the world, and this contract between Gunderson Marine and the National Science Foundation matches a mainstay Portland business with cutting-edge scientific research,” Wyden said. “This good news means jobs locally and groundbreaking research globally.”

“From Northwest Portland to the South Pole, this partnership betweenGundersonMarineand the National Science Foundation will boost the local economy and lead to a greater understanding of one of the earth’s final frontiers,” Merkley said. “It’s exciting to see a longtime Oregon business take the helm on this opportunity to further critical research in Antarctica and beyond.”

“Oregon manufacturing companies are at the forefront of innovation. This new contract between Gunderson Marine and the National Science Foundation will support research in the Antarctic and advance the development of vessels equipped to handle the extreme conditions of the region,"" Bonamici said. “I had the opportunity to visit Antarctica with the National Science Foundation a number of years ago and know how important this research is to understanding our environment and world.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-usda-invests-228-million-to-expand-health-care-and-broadband-assistance-in-rural-oregon,"Wyden, Merkley: USDA Invests $2.28 Million to Expand Health Care and Broadband Assistance in Rural Oregon",2023-11-22,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Communities to benefit include Hood River, Wasco, Marion, Yamhill and Clatsop counties

Washington D.C.—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a federal investment of $2.28 million in rural telemedicine help for Clatsop, Hood River, Marion, Wasco, and Yamhill counties.

The funding, from USDA Rural Development, includes a first-in-the-nation Broadband Technical Assistance Program investment of $500,000 for Rural Prosperity Partners that will help address fundamental barriers faced by rural communities, giving Oregonians everywhere a fair shot at receiving state and federal broadband funding.

“The message from my town halls and other meetings throughout Oregon is clear – Rural communities need better access to healthcare and telehealth is a must to achieve that goal in rural parts of our state,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified these rural communities have earned these federal resources, and will keep battling to secure similar investments benefiting every nook and cranny of Oregon.”

“Oregon’s rural communities must continue to be a focus as we work to support access to all aspects of health care,” said Merkley. “These crucial investments across the state will ensure that folks living in more remote communities will have better access to behavioral health services, primary care, and dental care. I will keep working to ensure that these services reach Oregonians in every corner of the state.”

The USDA Rural Development’s 2023 distance learning and telemedicine grants include the following

One Community Health ($439,629): This investment will equip Hood River and Wasco Counties (and Klickitat County in Washington) with audio-visual and telehealth equipment that enable medical professionals at One Community Health in these counties to deliver diverse medical, behavioral health and dental telehealth treatment.

Santiam Memorial Hospital ($996,935): This will help equip one hub site in Multnomah County and one end-user site in rural Marion County with a virtual ICU program to increase the critical care available at Santiam Memorial Hospital in Stayton. About 35 fellowship-trained, board-certified critical care physicians, and 30 highly-skilled registered nurses certified in critical care from Oregon Science & Health University Hospital will provide support and consultation to the Santiam Hospital ICU clinicians and nursing staff whenever needed through on-demand, two-way video communication and patient monitoring.

Providence Health and Services ($347,347): This investment will help equip Yamhill, Hood River and Clatsop counties with specialized telemedicine equipment. Medical professionals with Providence Health and Services of Oregon in Multnomah County will support capacity at smaller rural hospitals with psychological/behavioral health evaluations, stroke evaluations, and neonatal distress evaluations and guidance.

In addition, $500,000 will be invested in the Broadband Technical Assistance Program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases/bentz-and-colleagues-demand-transparency-access-secret-package-columbia-river,"Bentz and Colleagues Demand Transparency, Access to Secret Package in Columbia River System Operations Mediation",2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,OR,Cliff Bentz,B000668,bentz.house.gov,bentz,https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon Congressman Cliff Bentz (OR-02) joined Representatives Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), and Russ Fulcher (ID-01) in demanding the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) grant immediate access to the “package of actions and commitments” recently negotiated in the mediation concerning the Columbia River System Operations.

On October 31, 2023, the legal stay in the long-running court litigation related to the Columbia River System Operations expired. A 45-day stay extension was approved to allow federal mediation to continue. Shortly thereafter, federal defendants and plaintiffs filed a report to the court regarding the future of the litigation. In the status update report, the document noted the following:

""During the extended stay, representatives from the United States, and staff teams for the National Wildlife Federation et al. Plaintiffs, the State of Oregon, the State of Washington, the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon, and the Nez Perce Tribe (collectively, “Parties”), have developed a package of actions and commitments that they intend to discuss with the other regional sovereigns and litigation parties and, following conferral, present to the Parties’ decision-makers for final review and approval. If approved, the Parties intend to ask this Court to enter a multi-year stay of the litigation to allow the Parties to implement this package of actions and commitments.""

In a letter to Brenda Mallory, Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality, the lawmakers wrote:

""In addition to expecting the immediate transmittal of the proposed USG commitments, we find it necessary to remind you Congress alone has the authority not only to order the breach of the Lower Snake River Dams, but also exclusive authority to direct the study of breaching or to authorize replacement resources.""

""This is statutory fact, and we warn the administration not to attempt to circumvent that fact through clever wordsmithing.""

The letter is supported by stakeholders directly affected by the results of the mediation including TRIDEC, Washington Wheat Association, Public Power Council, and Pacific Northwest Waterways Association.

""The four lower Snake River dams, along with the energy, navigation, and irrigation benefits they provide, are critically important to the Tri-Cities and the entire Pacific Northwest,"" Karl Dye, President & CEO, TRIDEC stated. ""The many stakeholders who stand to be impacted by the outcome of this mediation deserve a seat at the table and to have their voices heard. This is a basic tenet of our system of government, and it is fundamentally unfair for select groups to be left out of the decision-making process on an issue that affects them directly. We sincerely appreciate Representatives Newhouse, McMorris Rodgers, Fulcher, and Bentz for their work to address this concern, and we hope that in the future all impacted parties will have an opportunity to participate.""

""We are appreciative of the efforts of these Representatives, demanding transparency in federal processes that have broad-reaching impacts on stakeholder communities including, the Washington wheat industry,"" said Michelle Hennings, Executive Director, Washington Wheat Association. ""We have said all along that healthy salmon and dams can coexist, but this can only happen through cooperative work and the ability for all stakeholders to come together in a productive way. Lack of clear direction and transparency from the Federal government only hinders the ability of that progress.""

Scott Simms, CEO & Executive Director, Public Power Council (PPC) stated, ""the people of the Pacific Northwest have really been let down by this so-called process being run by the Council on Environmental Quality. Our non-profit, community-owned member utilities and their customers were never given a real chance from the get-go, as we just recently learned a few parties in the litigation were working secretly with the federal government for more than six months on a ‘package of actions and commitments.’ We can’t wait for the day when the current confidentiality gag order is lifted on those proposed actions and commitments and everyone gets to see for themselves the level of uncertainty and prospective new costs that are being proposed for Northwest citizens as a result of these secret dealings.""

""We are deeply disappointed in the flawed process that resulted in the creation of the USG Actions and Commitments document, Neil Maunu, Executive Director, Pacific Northwest Waterways Association stated. ""Despite our organization’s extensive efforts to contribute as industry and subject matter experts, our input was overlooked for months while the plaintiffs engaged in secretive negotiations with the Council on Environmental Quality. This failure to consider the expertise and perspective of our members who rely on the critical navigation services provided by the system has left us with grave concerns about the credibility and fairness of the resulting package of actions and commitments. We urge transparency and fairness in this process and call on this administration to do so.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-protect-domestic-abuse-survivors-from-gun-violence,"Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect Domestic Abuse Survivors from Gun Violence",2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, Jeff Merkley and Senate colleagues today announced they introduced legislation that would prevent domestic violence abusers from buying firearms.

""The profound grief suffered by Nicolette's family is a tragedy no family should ever have to endure,” Wyden said. “Firearms must remain inaccessible to domestic violence abusers— lives should not be lost due to inexcusable loopholes these criminals take advantage of. Congress must help break the cycle of gun violence and act to avert future tragedies by passing the Nicolette Elias Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act.”

“Domestic abuse survivors have incredible strength and deserve peace of mind to know they will be protected when they escape abusive situations,” said Senator Merkley. “Ensuring abusers and violent offenders are barred from accessing firearms is the least we can do to protect the safety of both domestic abuse survivors and our broader communities.”

Federal law protects domestic violence survivors from gun violence by preventing their abusers from buying or having a firearm – but only once the court has issued a final restraining order. This leaves survivors unprotected exactly when they are in the most danger: when a domestic abuser first learns his or her victim has left and only an emergency restraining order is in place. Further, the definition of “intimate partner” used to prohibit respondents to restraining orders from buying or having a firearm includes spouses, former spouses, people with a child in common, and cohabitants. However, there are many survivors of dating violence who were never married, do not live with their abuser, and have no children.

The Lori Jackson – Nicolette Elias Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act would restrict those under emergency restraining orders from buying or having a firearm, and would extend protections to domestic violence survivors who have been abused by their dating partners.

The bill is named for two women who were both shot and killed by their abusive, estranged partners even after securing emergency restraining orders: Nicolette Elias from Portland, Oregon; and Lori Jackson from Oxford, Connecticut.

Nicolette Elias was a 46-year-old Portland mother of two young daughters who for years sought and secured restraining orders and temporary stalking orders against her estranged and abusive ex-husband. Despite all her attempts to protect herself and her daughters from a man who frequently threatened them and had access to firearms, in 2014, Nicolette was murdered by her former spouse in front of their children with a handgun that he refused to relinquish. He then forced their daughters out of the home, past their mother’s body, and kidnapped them, taking them to his own home. There, later that day, he took his own life, shooting himself in the chest in front of the police.

Lori Jackson was a 32-year-old mother of two who fled her home with her two children and filed for a restraining order to protect her family from her estranged husband. She moved in with her mother in Oxford, Connecticut, and the court granted her a temporary protective order while she waited for a hearing to obtain a permanent restraining order. The day before the hearing was scheduled, Lori's husband shot and killed her and injured her mother Merry Jackson using a gun he legally possessed because a permanent protective order was not yet in place.

The Lori Jackson – Nicolette Elias Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act would expand on a provision in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act that denies firearm sales to dating partners with misdemeanor domestic violence convictions – and not just abusers who had been married to, lived with, or had children with their victim.

The bill would also establish a new grant program to help state and local governments implement policies that keep firearms out of the hands of domestic violence perpetrators while they are subject to a temporary or emergency restraining order. These policies include: requiring a domestic violence abuser to surrender or sell any firearm or ammunition in their possession; revoking their permit or license to purchase, possess or carry a firearm or ammunition while the restraining order is in effect; and requiring that a background check to be performed before any firearm or ammunition is returned to the person subject to the restraining order.

Alongside Wyden, the legislation was led by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn. and U.S. Representative Jim Himes, D-Conn.

Alongside Merkley, the bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Bob Casey, D-Pa., Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., Patty Murray, D-Wis., Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., Mazie K. Hirono, D-Hawaii, Dick Durbin, D-Ill., John Fetterman, D-Pa., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., Tim Kaine, D-Va., Chris Coons, D-Del., Laphonza Butler, D-Calif., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., and Chris Murphy, D-Conn.

The legislation is endorsed by Everytown for Gun Safety, Brady, Giffords, March for Our Lives, Sandy Hook Promise, Newtown Action Alliance, National Network to End Domestic Violence, National Domestic Violence Hotline, National Resource Center on Domestic Violence, and Jewish Women International.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-urges-justice-department-to-release-information-about-hemisphere-phone-surveillance-program-that-would-outrage-americans-and-congress,Wyden Urges Justice Department to Release Information About ‘Hemisphere’ Phone Surveillance Program that would Outrage Americans and Congress,2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Unclassified Documents Contain Troubling Information About Dragnet Phone Surveillance Program

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., called on Attorney General Merrick Garland to make public documents related to the Hemisphere phone surveillance program, which allows federal, state, local and Tribal law enforcement agencies to request searches of trillions of U.S. phone records, usually without warrants.

Although the documents are not classified, the Justice Department has marked them as “Law Enforcement Sensitive,” which is meant to prevent them from being publicly released. In a letter to Garland sent today, Wyden urged the department to remove those restrictions.

“I have serious concerns about the legality of this surveillance program, and the materials provided by the DOJ contain troubling information that would justifiably outrage many Americans and other members of Congress,” Wyden wrote. “While I have long defended the government’s need to protect classified sources and methods, this surveillance program is not classified and its existence has already been acknowledged by the DOJ in federal court. The public interest in an informed debate about government surveillance far outweighs the need to keep this information secret.”

Under the Hemisphere program, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) indirectly pays AT&T to allow any federal, state, local or Tribal law enforcement agency to search AT&T customers’ phone records as far back as 1987, according to public records about the program.

Hemisphere has not been subjected to a federal Privacy Impact Assessment because of its unique funding structure. Rather than directly funding the surveillance program, the ONDCP provides a grant to the Houston High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, a partnership between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, which in turn pays AT&T to operate this surveillance program. Law enforcement agencies nationwide are able to request Hemisphere searches, including for investigations that are not drug related, Houston HIDTA officials told Wyden’s office.

The bipartisan Government Surveillance Reform Act would require a court order for surveillance of Americans’ phone records, the same standard currently required for the government to obtain historical email and instant message metadata records.

Read the full letter to Attorney General Garland here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bentzs-statement-praising-speaker-johnsons-efforts-avert,Congressman Bentz's Statement Praising Speaker Johnson's Efforts to Avert a Government Shutdown,2023-11-17,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,OR,Cliff Bentz,B000668,bentz.house.gov,bentz,https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – This week, Congressman Cliff Bentz (OR-02) voted for Speaker Mike Johnson’s plan to fund the government and avert a shutdown.

“I voted with Speaker Johnson because I support his short-term funding plan which will give us the time we need to keep working on reductions in spending. As the Speaker knows, a shutdown would cause serious hardships to many who work in the military, the TSA, agencies charged with issuing permits, and even agencies who send out government entitlement payments,” said Congressman Bentz. “Additionally, a government shutdown would be damaging to our economy and to our national security. I am fully committed to working with my colleagues to reduce spending while at the same time keeping the government open and operating.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-takano-bowman-hayes-call-divisive-parental-rights-language-be-removed,"Bonamici, Takano, Bowman, Hayes Call for Divisive “Parental Rights” Language to Be Removed from NDAA",2023-11-17,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [11/17/23] – Today Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Mark Takano (D-CA), Jamaal Bowman (D-NY), and Jahana Hayes (D-CT) led 23 colleagues in calling for language imposing so-called “parental rights” requirements on public schools run by the Department of Defense to be removed from the proposed National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24).

“This section would impose burdensome, unnecessary, and redundant requirements on public schools funded and managed by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), an organization within the Department of Defense that provides military connected students and families with access to a high-quality public education,” the Representatives wrote.

The Representatives outlined the following reasons for their opposition to Section 651 in the House-passed NDAA, titled, “Rights of parents of children attending schools operated by the Department of Defense Education Activity”:

DoDEA schools have a strong track record of high performance that should be recognized and supported.

Effective family-school partnerships are best achieved by a collaborative, complementary relationship between educators, families, and community leaders to advance programs, practices, and policies that empower every parent to make their child’s potential a reality.

The final Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) NDAA excluded similar language as the result of a thoughtful bipartisan compromise.

In addition to Bonamici, Takano, Bowman, and Hayes the letter was signed by Representatives Norcross, Carbajal, Norton, Grijalva, Wilson (FL), Sablan, Schakowsky, Porter, Williams, Trone, Chu, Adams, and Crockett.

The full text of the letter can be read here and below.

Earlier this year Bonamici led more than 60 colleagues in introducing the Bill of Rights for Students and Parents, a resolution to advance an inclusive, aspirational, and affirmative vision for public education. Bonamici’s resolution serves as a direct contrast to recent proposals that are unproductive, burdensome, and pit parents against educators. Statements in support of the resolution can be found here. Bonamici also led the Democratic response on the floor of the House of Representatives to H.R.5, the Parents Bill of Rights Act.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-south-oregon-coast-earns-300000-federal-investment-for-tech-entrepreneurs,"Wyden, Merkley: South Oregon Coast Earns $300,000 Federal Investment for Tech Entrepreneurs",2023-11-17,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that the South Coast Development Council, Inc. in Coos Bay has secured a $300,000 federal investment to nurture local tech-based start-ups.

“This federal investment in the South Coast will generate jobs, innovation and economic activity that will ripple out for years to come,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified that key business, education and civic leaders in this rural Oregon community have teamed up to earn these resources. And I’ll keep battling for communities throughout Oregon to receive similar funds that build strong local economies.”

“Small businesses are the backbone of Oregon’s economy, and even more so for our rural and coastal communities,” said Merkley. “These important investments heading to the South Coast Development Council will support jobs, drive innovation, and help strengthen the local economy of the South Coast.”

The $300,000 from the federal Economic Development Administration is designed to accelerate technology entrepreneurship on the South Coast by increasing access to entrepreneurial support and startup capital. The South Coast Incubator Technology Industry Ecosystem Development project is led by the South Coast Development Council, Inc. with support from Southwestern Oregon Community College and the cities of Coos Bay and North Bend.

“This is a perfectly-timed opportunity for our rural communities on the south Oregon coast. Our center now can develop a technology-based business incubator to help grow new businesses that focus on the fast-evolving Green Energy and Blue Economy sectors,” said Derek Tonn, director of Southwestern’s Small Business Development Center. “That means direct assistance to local entrepreneurs developing tech-based products and services for clean energy innovation and people who work on the ocean and rivers.”

""This collaboration between South Coast Development Council, Inc., Southwestern Oregon Community College, their Small Business Development Center, and the cities of Coos Bay and North Bend is a potentially transformative step for Oregon's South Coast,” said Bryan Sykes, interim executive director, South Coast Development Council Inc. “The business incubator located on Southwestern’s campus will foster tech-based entrepreneurship, offering prototyping services and comprehensive support to emerging businesses, entrepreneurs, and innovators.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-cliff-bentz-statement-israel,Congressman Cliff Bentz Statement on Israel,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,OR,Cliff Bentz,B000668,bentz.house.gov,bentz,https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"I have long been a supporter of Israel and its people. The United States has consistently supported Israel, and I am proud to have been a part of that effort. Over the past three years, I have voted for a significant number of bills that help and support Israel. These bills include:

H.R. 5323 - Iron Dome Supplemental Appropriations Act 2022

H.Con.Res.57 - Expressing the sense of Congress supporting the State of Israel.

H.R.3099 - Special Envoy for the Abraham Accords Act

H.Res.771 - Standing with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists.

H.Res.793 - Calling on Hamas to immediately release hostages taken during October 2023 attack on Israel.

I believe that supporting Israel is not only the right thing to do, but it is also in America’s national interest. Israel is the only democratic nation in the Middle East, and it shares our values of freedom, democracy, and human rights while being a vital ally. We have a long history of cooperation on a wide range of issues, including security, counterterrorism, and economic development.

The recent attacks by Hamas on Israeli civilians are horrifying and have no place in a civilized world. Hamas is a terrorist organization that has repeatedly launched attacks against Israeli civilians, and I condemn these attacks in the strongest possible terms. Israel has the right to defend itself, and I stand with Israel. Sadly, there are thousands of innocent victims in both Israel and Gaza who are being impacted by this senseless war started and perpetuated by Hamas and we must do what we can to help them.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-nearly-32-million-for-columbia-river-basin-projects-and-programs-in-oregon,"Merkley, Wyden Announce Nearly $32 Million for Columbia River Basin Projects and Programs in Oregon",2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"The federal investments come through the EPA’s Columbia River Restoration Program, which was created by Senator Merkley to restore health, vitality of critical ecosystems

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is investing $31,768,530 million across seven Oregon projects and programs to reduce toxics in fish and water, address climate chaos, and help restore the health of the Columbia River Basin.

The federal investments come from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s historic $79 million total funding infusion into the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program, which is proving essential to the Pacific Northwest’s Tribes, communities, and economy that rely on the critical watershed. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was passed two years ago this week.

“Our rivers and waterways are the lifeblood of our communities. If they are dirty and polluted, our homes, schools, and businesses are dirty and polluted,” Merkley said. “The federal investments for these homegrown projects and programs will drive solutions that lead to a cleaner, healthier Columbia River Basin for our communities, wildlife, ecosystems, and economy.”

“The Columbia River Basin is a rich and essential part of Oregon’s history, as well an integral part of our present and future,” said Wyden. ""Clean water is a key ingredient for thriving and healthy communities in the Basin. And I will continue to fight for federal resources just like these that protect this precious natural asset for generations to come.”

Toxic pollutants can accumulate in water, sediment, and fish tissues. This threatens to decimate natural ecosystems and risk the health of Tribal communities and other Oregonians who consume affected fish populations.

To help tackle the issue, Senator Merkley—who serves as a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee—amended the Clean Water Act in 2016 to create the Columbia River Basin Restoration Program. Since then, he has used his position on the Appropriations Committee to fight for robust funding for the program.

In August 2022, Senators Merkley and Wyden were joined by EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan at Broughton Beach in Portland to announce the first wave of grants from the program that were awarded funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to reduce toxics in fish and water throughout the Columbia Basin.

“We are making tremendous strides in understanding the challenges of water quality and salmon recovery in the Columbia River Basin,” said EPA Regional Administrator Casey Sixkiller. “Working with our many talented partners in Oregon and across the Basin, we are expanding our efforts to support environmental and human health.”

Today’s announcement completes EPA’s awards available for Columbia River Basin Restoration Program funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

A full list and description of each of the latest 18 projects and programs—including the seven efforts in Oregon—can be found HERE.

The 2023 Tribal Grants to Reduce Toxics in the Columbia River Basin are as follows:

$1,999,055 for the Grand Ronde Toxics Reduction Planning and Action Project to launch a new effort to take concrete actions to reduce toxic pollution in the Willamette River Basin and allow the Tribe to develop a formalized toxics reduction plan for the first time. The project will benefit the health and well-being of Tribal members and improve water quality for fish and wildlife.

$1,990,990 for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) Strategic Pollution Prevention and Toxics Reduction Planning and Implementation Project to target toxics reduction actions in the Umatilla, Walla Walla, Snake, and John Day tributaries to the Columbia River. The comprehensive inventory of toxics will prioritize reduction actions. The project will focus on toxics and their impact on human health and the First Foods, which are a critical component of CTUIR Tribal member diets, and all depend on a healthy and functioning river and floodplain.

“From our water code: Water keeps all our bodies for us. ?úuš is a part of everything. It is within natítayt (the people), it is within tii?ám (the land), and it is within núsux (the salmon). It is essential for the survival of all life. Cold, clean, healthy water is the life blood of the land. This funding is an important step toward protecting cold clean water,” said Mason K. Murphy, Energy and Environmental Sciences Program Manager for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

“We are pleased to partner with EPA to reduce toxic pollution. As long-time stewards of the land and water in the Willamette Valley, the Grand Ronde are committed to protecting and restoring clean water, salmon, and healthy communities,” said Cheryle A. Kennedy, Chairwoman, Grand Ronde Tribal Council.

The 2023 Toxic Reduction Lead Grants in the Columbia River Basin are as follows:

$6,344,510 for the Salmon-Safe Columbia Partner Network: Mobilizing Water Quality Protection Actions across the Inland Northwest Project to scale up its proven work and engage new Tribes, farmers, ranchers, developers, and other land managers in voluntary actions to protect water quality and enhance climate resiliency.

$6,000,539 for the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Columbia River Basin Restoration Funding Assistance Program – Toxic Reduction Lead. The funding will be used to fuel activities that safeguard waterways from pesticides and mercury, remediate orphaned brownfield sites in communities historically impacted the most by toxic pollutants, and implement actions to PFAS compounds (known as “forever chemicals”) to improve the health of Oregon’s natural resources and those who depend on them.

$5,599,735 for The Freshwater Trust’s Mid-Snake Toxics and Runoff Reduction Program, which seeks to establish and support a coordinating committee of funders and implementers to target and implement high impact irrigation upgrades on agricultural fields that reduce the runoff that fuels dangerous methylmercury production in the Snake River. Methylmercury threatens human health, and the anoxic conditions that lead to methylmercury production threaten whole ecosystems.

$5,546,005 for Scaling Up: Urban Waters and Wildlife Partners (De)pave the Way on Toxics Reduction in the Upper Willamette with Cascade Pacific RC&D, which aims to further expand their flagship stormwater retrofit program, continue to provide technical assistance for improved stormwater management and install twenty-four voluntary, green stormwater infrastructure facilities to reduce or eliminate pollution and runoff, improve water quality, and protect habitat while promoting citizen engagement and knowledge.

$4,287,696 for the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership – School Stormwater Reduction Program, which will work with community partners to design and build stormwater retrofit projects to reduce the stormwater pollution generated from schoolyards and school parking areas; highlight green infrastructure approaches at a communities’ most public places; and engage and teach teachers, students, and community members about stormwater issues and solutions.

“Working across the interior Columbia Basin from ranches on Oregon’s John Day River to barley farms on Snake River tributaries in Idaho to commercial development in Bend and Spokane and Boise, the project builds a market-based movement of partnering organizations and conservation organizations and Tribes working together to inspire countless voluntary landowner actions across the basin to protect water quality and enhance climate resiliency,” Dan Kent, Co-Founder and Executive Director, Salmon-Safe said.

""DEQ is excited to see this funding coming to Oregon and the Columbia River Basin to support our work on the ground with communities,” said Oregon DEQ Director Leah Feldon. “This is one of North America’s largest basins and home to so many cultural, natural and economic resources – it’s important we do our part to reduce the impacts of toxics.”

“Methylmercury threatens communities in the Columbia River Basin. Reductions in the agricultural runoff that help fuel methylmercury production can be easily achieved by converting surface irrigated fields to sprinkler irrigation systems. The barrier to implementing thousands of these upgrades in the Mid-Snake Basin (Eastern Oregon and Western Idaho) is not lack of producer interest. It’s simply not anyone’s job to solve the bigger funding, timing, and coordination barriers that currently inhibit project adoption at speed and scale. The Freshwater Trust, in partnership with a Coordinating Committee of regional funders and implementers, will use advanced watershed analytics to identify priority clusters of projects, make simple and financially compelling offers to producers to install new equipment, and work with local water user groups to continuously build up a queue of shovel-ready projects. We’re excited EPA is giving us the opportunity to demonstrate a bigger, faster pathway forward that can benefit so many communities,” said Tim Wigington, Vice President of Finance and Policy, The Freshwater Trust.

“Urban stormwater is the number one threat to clean water in the Willamette Valley- and we have brought partners together to provide solutions that create both habitat and better water quality in our urban neighborhoods. The Urban Waters and Wildlife Partnership (UWWP), led by the Long Tom Watershed Council, addresses this challenging problem through working with businesses to design and install Trout Friendly Landscapes on commercial and industrial properties throughout Eugene and Springfield. The Partnership is comprised of the Cities of Eugene & Springfield, Lane County, Willamalane, Eugene Water & Electric Board, Springfield Utility Board, Metro Wastewater Management Commission, Upper Willamette Soil & Water Conservation District, Cascade Pacific Resource Conservation & Development (CPRCD), and all four regional Watershed Councils: McKenzie, Middle & Coast Fork of the Willamette and Long Tom. As the Toxics Lead, CPRCD will disperse EPA funding to UWWP projects and partners. Funds will support the expansion of the partnership's work to include new projects such as Lane County's Stormwater Basin Cleaning Assistance Program (SCAP),” said Kirk Shimeall, Executive Director, Cascade Pacific Resource Conservation & Development.

“The School Stormwater Reduction Program is a profound investment in clean water and healthier communities. Thanks to Senator Merkley’s leadership and the Columbia River Basin Restoration Act, we’re installing stormwater treatment infrastructure/facilities at schools in Oregon and Washington — reducing the amount of toxic pollution entering local waterways while also transforming parking lots and schoolyards into watershed science learning laboratories for students,” said Elaine Placido, Executive Director, Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-call-for-implementation-of-critical-provisions-to-end-road-safety-crisis,"Wyden, Colleagues Call for Implementation of Critical Provisions to End Road Safety Crisis",2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Ron Wyden along with Senate colleagues has sent a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration requesting an update on the implementation of critical road safety provisions for Oregon and the country in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“Last year, nearly 43,000 people died in motor vehicle crashes. While this number represents a slight decrease from 2021 — the deadliest year on the road in sixteen years — bold action is necessary to address this road safety crisis,” wrote the senators. “There is no doubt our nation is at a critical moment for traffic safety, and NHTSA’s task of implementing the much needed … safety provisions will determine whether we continue our progress and leave traffic fatalities in the rear view mirror.”

“We commend NHTSA for its work to curb the disturbing increase in traffic related deaths that culminated in 2021, but now is not the time to turn on cruise control when it comes to road safety.”

Specifically, the senators requested NHTSA to provide a written update on its progress in implementing ten safety provisions secured in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law:

Recall Completion (Sec. 24202), which directs NHTSA to publish an annual list of recall completion rates;

Motor Vehicle Seatback Safety Standards (Sec. 24204), which directs NHTSA to issue an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking to update Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 207 regarding seatback safety standards;

Automatic Shutoff (Sec. 24505), which directs NHTSA to issue a final rule to require manufacturers of vehicles with keyless ignitions to install a device that automatically shuts off the vehicle after it idles for a certain period;

Crash Avoidance Technology (Sec. 24208), which directs NHTSA to issue minimum performance standards for crash avoidance technologies and to require all cars be equipped with a forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking system as well as a lane departure warning and lane keeping assist system;

Reduction in Driver Distraction (Sec. 24209), which directs NHTSA to conduct research on driver monitoring systems to reduce driver distraction and driver disengagement;

Headlamps (Sec. 24212), which directs NHTSA to issue a final rule amending Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108 regarding performance-based standards for vehicle headlamps;

Hood and Bumper Standards (Sec. 24214), which directs NHTSA to request comment on potential updates to hood and bumper standards;

Early Warning Reporting (Sec. 24216), which directs NHTSA to conduct a study on existing requirements for manufacturers to report information and data to help identify potential safety issues;

Advanced Impaired Driver Technology (Sec. 24220), which directs NHTSA to issue a final rule requiring new vehicles be equipped with impaired driving prevention technology; and,

Child Safety (Sec. 24222), which directs NHTSA to issue a final rule requiring new cars be equipped with a system to alert the driver to check rear seats after the engine is turned off.

The letter was led by Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.). Along with Wyden, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/blumenauer-wyden-introduce-groundbreaking-tribal-co-stewardship-model,"Blumenauer, Wyden Introduce Groundbreaking Tribal Co-Stewardship Model",2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Earl Blumenauer and Senator Ron Wyden, along with Senator Jeff Merkley, reintroduced the Wy’east Tribal Resources Restoration Act. The legislation directs the U.S. Forest Service to partner with the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs to develop a co-management plan for agreed-upon Treaty Resource Emphasis Zones. The legislation would establish one of the first placed-based co-management strategies in the nation. This legislation was introduced last Congress, and it had a hearing in the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

“Indigenous communities have been responsible stewards of Oregon’s lands and wildlife since time immemorial. We must do more to capitalize on their leadership in our conservation efforts—not just because the federal government has a moral obligation to do so but because we will not be successful without them,” said Congressman Earl Blumenauer. “Tribal co-stewardship represents 21st?century public lands management.”

“The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs have generations-long knowledge of best ecological practices and treaty rights with the federal government that must be protected,” Senator Ron Wyden said. “This legislation would secure both goals in the Mount Hood National Forest by giving the Tribe an important voice and role in the management of its precious cultural resources.”

“The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs are the largest neighbor to the Mt. Hood National Forest and are essential in maintaining and protecting the region’s cultural and ecological resources,” said Senator Jeff Merkley. “This legislation is a critical step in fulfilling our treaty and trust responsibilities to the Warm Springs community by creating a framework for them to take an active role in co-managing the forest and utilizing their knowledge, traditions, and expertise to improve forest management.”

The Wy’east Tribal Resources Restoration Act:

· Directs the U.S. Forest Service to develop a co-management plan with the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs to protect and enhance Tribal Treaty resources and protect the Reservation from wildfire within agreed-upon “Treaty Resources Emphasis Zones.” These zones are areas within the Mount Hood National Forest subject to the Warm Springs-Forest Service co-management plan;

· Requires implementation of the Cultural Foods Obligations, which were included in the Public Lands Management Act of 2009 but have never been implemented;

· Integrates traditional ecological knowledge as an important part of the best available scientific information used in forest and resource management areas within the Zone;

· Authorizes $3,500,000 in annual appropriations and the use of existing Forest Service revenue to ensure the Tribe is a full participant in management.

Click here for bill text. Click herefor a one-page fact sheet.

“We are grateful to Rep. Blumenauer and Senator Wyden for this legislation.?Warm Springs people have cared for the land since the Creator placed us here, and this legislation will help reconnect Wyeast to its original inhabitants and integrate?traditional ecological knowledge into federal land management.?The bill would allow the Warm Springs Tribe to?improve fish and wildlife habitat, reduce forest fuels and?wildfire risk in the borderlands of our Reservation — an area designated as a priority?fireshed by the U.S. Forest Service.? The result will improve forest and wildlife health for the benefit of all Oregonians,” said Warm Springs Chairman Jonathan Smith.

“Our nonprofit agrees that shifting federal management of Mt. Hood towards a modern, community-empowered mindset is dearly needed.?Across wildfires mitigation, ecological or recreation public interests, current regulatory regimes hinder more than help,” said Noel Johnson, President of Teacup/Mt. Hood Nordic.

""The Oregon Trails Coalition is thankful for Congressman Blumenauer and Senator Wyden's leadership in reintroducing the?Wy'east Tribal Resources Restoration Act, as we believe true partnerships with Tribes are crucial for honoring treaty rights and protecting the long-term health of the treasured lands and waters we turn to for recreation and renewal. We are committed to continuing to collaborate to increase investment in protecting natural and cultural?resources as well as recreation access on Wy'east/ Mt. Hood National Forest,” said Stephanie Noll, Coalition Director of Oregon Trails Coalition.

“Sustainable Northwest commends Representative?Blumenauer?and Senator Wyden for introduction of Wy’east Tribal Resources Restoration Act, and its emphatic recognition of?tribal?sovereignty and treaty rights. Far too often, legislation designed to protect and enhance federal natural resource values fails to respect and honor the legally binding obligations the federal government has to?Tribal?nations in these landscapes. This legislation paves the way for a new and equitable approach to achieve protection and enhancement of treasured places, while explicitly upholding and supporting?Tribal?treaty rights and sovereignty in land management planning and decision-making,” said Greg Block, President of Sustainable Northwest

“I applaud Congressman Blumenauer and Senator Wyden’s efforts to expand the co-management of the Mt. Hood National Forest alongside the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs. Scenic beauty and outdoor recreation are major motivators for tourism in Oregon?and these opportunities are greatly enhanced by the Tribes who have tended these treasured places since time immemorial. This bill takes important steps forward in recognizing tribal sovereignty and treaty rights to ensure that this stewardship can continue for generations to come,” said Todd Davidson, CEO Travel Oregon?

“This co-management strategy between the Forest Service and the Tribe is an excellent outline to improve the technical understanding of trust responsibilities while recognizing the need to integrate ecological and scientific knowledge with the intent to better fulfill the trust relationship between the US Government and Tribal relations,” said Mike Quinn, Vice President of Mt. Hood Skibowl.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-nearly-400000-for-bend-small-business-to-research-environmental-solutions,"Wyden, Merkley Announce Nearly $400,000 for Bend Small Business to Research Environmental Solutions",2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"EPA resources for LeapFrog Designs will be used on development of graywater technologies

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a nearly $400,000 federal grant to LeapFrog Designs in Bend to develop a nature-based treatment technology to reuse onsite non-potable graywater. Graywater is wastewater from sources like kitchen sinks, bathtubs, showers and washing machines that do not include human waste.

“Smart and effective solutions to water shortages generated by the climate crisis will often come from small businesses just like LeapFrog Designs with its ethic of innovation and creativity,” said Wyden. “I’m gratified this Bend company has secured this federal investment, and will keep working to support these small businesses in Oregon and across the nation while also investing in the green economy of the future.”

“Investing in Oregon’s small businesses that create climate-friendly innovations and solutions is a win-win for local economies and the environment. LeapFrog in Bend is employing a creative use of technology that works to address both water scarcity and water pollution,” said Merkley. “This investment will create local jobs, protect the environment, and help keep small businesses competitive.”

The $399,618 grant to LeapFrog Designs from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Small Business Innovation Research program is for researching solutions to complex climate issues.

“Water scarcity and water pollution are huge problems nationwide and worldwide,” said Nick Sund, LeapFrog Designs Co-Founder and Head of Product. “Water reuse solves both simultaneously.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-statement-on-white-house-nomination-of-amy-m-baggio-for-us-district-court-in-oregon,"Wyden, Merkley Statement on White House Nomination of Amy M. Baggio for U.S. District Court in Oregon",2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. –U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today issued the following statement on the White House nomination of Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Amy M. Baggio for a seat on the U.S. District Court in Oregon.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bentz-releases-statement-secretary-mayorkas-impeachment-vote,Congressman Bentz Releases Statement on Secretary Mayorkas Impeachment Vote,2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,OR,Cliff Bentz,B000668,bentz.house.gov,bentz,https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"There is no question that Secretary Mayorkas has failed to carry out his duties as cabinet secretary, putting the American people at serious and decades-long risk. His implementation of the Biden border policies has resulted in the worst mass illegal migration into the United States that we have ever experienced. As a member of the House Judiciary Committee, I have twice had the opportunity to personally question Secretary Mayorkas regarding his failure to protect our country.

The bottom line is this: if we actually want to impeach AND convict Secretary Mayorkas, we must proceed correctly, and go through “regular order.” “Regular order” means using the committee process to reach a solution.

The United States House of Representatives has the power to impeach, but not the power to convict. Articles of Impeachment are the equivalent of an indictment. To be removed from office, the impeachment resolution, once passed by the House, must be taken up by the Senate, a trial held, and then if there is a two-thirds affirmative vote in the Senate, the person is “convicted” and only then would he be removed from office. The Senate is not obligated to take up articles of impeachment, and I can guarantee you that the current Senate would never take up a resolution that had not gone through committee (regular order). This failure to follow “regular order” is one of the reasons that the second Trump impeachment was flawed, and a reason, among others, that many of us used to justify our votes objecting to that impeachment effort. Mayorkas is currently the focus of an impeachment inquiry in our Republican Homeland Security Oversight Committee, and we are told that this committee will act soon. (This is the committee to which the resolution was referred).

I will continue to do all that I can to hold Secretary Mayorkas responsible for his absolute failure to protect the American People. I will support conducting the impeachment process in a manner that maximizes our opportunity to have Mayorkas face trial in the Senate and prevents the Democrats from arguing that we failed to follow the Constitution, failed to follow regular order, and failed to properly develop the facts.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-cuellar-norcross-dingell-propose-child-care-stipends-union,"Bonamici, Cuellar, Norcross, Dingell Propose Child Care Stipends for Union Apprenticeship Programs",2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – In recognition of National Apprenticeship Week, Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-1), Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), Donald Norcross (NJ-1), and Debbie Dingell (MI-6) introduced the Apprentice-Related Child Care (ARCC) Act. The bill would establish a child care stipend pilot program available to Americans enrolled in Registered Apprenticeships and Pre-Apprenticeship programs.

The legislation is endorsed by North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU), Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA), International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART), United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC), United Association of Union Plumbers & Pipefitters (UA), International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT), Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association (OPCMIA) & Third Way.

“Apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships put workers on a path to quality, good-paying jobs that will support their family for years to come,” said Representative Bonamici. “Increasing access to child care will encourage a more diverse workforce and foster inclusive economic growth by allowing more people to benefit from these programs while caring for their families. I’m pleased to introduce the Apprenticeship-Related Child Care Act with my colleagues to make child care more affordable for apprentices and pre-apprentices and open the doors to opportunity.”

“I’ve seen the benefits of the Registered Apprenticeship system first-hand in South Texas, where our local unions sponsor multi-year programs in a variety of trades,” said Dr. Cuellar. “Despite these successes, apprentices still face financial barriers to completion – particularly those with dependent children. The cost of child care has more than tripled in the last three decades. It’s essential that we do more to address these costs and support American workers.”

“America will never reach peak workforce participation unless we as a country address the urgent and escalating issue of child care. It touches every office, business, and job site in the United States,” said Sean McGarvey, President of North America’s Building Trades Unions. “The lack of access to safe, quality, affordable child care prevents parents from being in the workforce, hurts our economy, and hurts families. All of us must do more. The building trades unions and our partners are stepping up to do our part, and we applaud those who are focused on exploring strategies to provide additional support. The Apprentice-Related Child Care (ARCC) Act does just this, and we thank Representatives Cuellar, Bonamici, Norcross, and Dingell for their leadership on this issue.”

“Union apprenticeships are the best tool we have to lift Americans into the middle class. But far too often, historically underrepresented communities run into obstacles that prevent them from accessing the careers that we provide – one of the most prominent being affordable child care,” said Michael Coleman, General President of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART). “The Apprentice-Related Child Care Act would play a vital role in helping parents surmount that financial barrier, making it easier for unions like SMART to bring people of all backgrounds into our industries. This is a potentially life-changing piece of legislation for workers across the country, and we thank Representatives Cuellar, Bonamici, Norcross, and Dingell for introducing it.”

“When someone thinks of the building trades, they think of workers who build things, but we are also people who like to break down barriers,” said Kevin Sexton, the General President of the Operative Plasterers’ & Cement Masons’ International Association of the United States and Canada (OPCMIA). “Today, one of the biggest barriers to entering the workforce is the high cost of childcare. By providing childcare stipends, the Apprentice-Related Child Care (ARCC) Act will help parents pursue careers that will enable them to better provide for their families. We thank Representatives Cuellar, Bonamici, Norcross, and Dingell for introducing the ARCC Act and their leadership by supporting parents in their pursuit of the American dream. Together, we will pave the road to the middle class.”

“The burdensome cost of child care prevents too many parents, especially mothers, from reaping the benefits of our country’s apprenticeship system,” said Gabe Horwitz, Senior Vice President of the Economic Program at Third Way. “This legislation takes an important step in making our apprenticeship system reach more parents and have the support they need to balance the demands of work and family.”

“As a former electrical apprentice, I know firsthand that registered apprenticeships are one of America’s most successful job programs,” said Representative Norcross. “The ARCC Act will expand access to apprenticeships and remove barriers to these highly successful programs by providing affordable childcare for hardworking Americans who are working to support their families. I am committed to making sure that all apprentices have the resources and opportunities they need to complete their programs, and I am proud to co-lead this bill that will strengthen America's workforce and expand pathways to the middle class.""

“Caregiving is the foundation of our economy and allows all other work to be possible,” said Representative Dingell. “The ARCC Act will help address the childcare crisis in this country, allowing Americans who would otherwise not be able to access apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships that lead to good-paying, high-value careers.”

The ARCC Act would establish a two-year pilot program at the Department of Labor (DOL). Authorized at $200 million over Fiscal Years 2024 and 2025, the bill directs the DOL to establish a competitive grant program, awarding grants to ten geographically diverse states for the purposes of administering child care stipends to American workers enrolled in Registered Apprenticeships and Pre-Apprenticeship programs.

Stipends are paid directly to child care providers serving apprentices and must be at least $500 per month, per dependent child. When administering child care stipends, states must include groups that are historically underrepresented in apprenticeships, including women and people of color. At the conclusion of the pilot program, DOL must report to Congress on the impact of these stipends, including any effect on persistence and completion rates. The stipends are not subject to income tax and not counted toward eligibility for public benefit programs.

For more information on the ARCC Act, click here. To read the ARCC Act’s bill text, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-wyden-crapo-valadao-slotkin-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-boost,"Bonamici, Wyden, Crapo, Valadao, Slotkin Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Boost Exports of Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts and Other Specialty Crops",2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Representatives Suzanne Bonamici, D-Ore., David Valadao, R-Calif., and Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich, along with Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Ranking Member Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, introduced legislation today to help farmers fight through trade barriers and sell more fruits, vegetables and other specialty crops in foreign markets.

The Specialty Crops Reporting on Opportunities and Promotion Act (Specialty CROP Act), responds to continued high tariffs, burdensome labeling requirements, and other trade barriers that restrict U.S. products from accessing foreign markets, threatening rural communities and agricultural producers who depend on customers overseas.

“Oregon is world famous for our specialty crops, and products like blueberries and hazelnuts make up a significant portion of our state's export economy. Unfortunately, growers face many barriers to foreign markets, which limit their competitiveness,” Bonamici said. “The Specialty CROP Act will improve the USDA’s existing specialty crops trade report to better translate its findings into meaningful action and policy. I’m pleased to introduce this important bipartisan legislation with Senator Wyden and several colleagues in the House and Senate.”

“The world is hungry for grown-in-the-U.S. blueberries, potatoes, wine and other produce. But all too often our farmers and producers are stymied by unreasonable blockades in foreign markets,” Wyden said. “Our bipartisan bill will help rural Americans by identifying unfair foreign trade barriers and creating specific plans to cut through that red tape.”

“From high tariffs to onerous labeling requirements, America’s specialty crop growers face a range of barriers imposed by foreign nations that hinder their ability to export their high-quality products around the world,” Crapo said. Improving the USDA’s Specialty Crop Report will arm producers and trade negotiators with detailed and up-to-date information, helping break down longstanding trade barriers, diversify export markets and expand export opportunities for Idaho’s specialty crop producers.”

“Specialty crop producers in California have faced many challenges over the last few years – from supply chain backlogs at our ports, rising input costs, labor shortages, and drought,” said Valadao. “Many of our California-grown specialty crops rely on customers overseas, but too often face unfair trade barriers that make it difficult to stay competitive. This bill will better identify trade obstacles so that American-grown specialty crops have fair access to foreign markets.”

“Specialty crops – fruits, vegetables, nuts, and more – are vital to Michigan’s economy and to the livelihoods of the farmers that grow them,” said Slotkin. “That’s why I’m co-leading the Specialty CROP Act. This bipartisan bill will help growers access foreign markets, while also analyzing potential barriers to success – a straightforward, common-sense step that will support our agriculture community.”

The legislation will help farmers by making key improvements to the annual U.S. Specialty Crops Trade Issues Report, in order to more effectively identify and combat unreasonable trade barriers, including to:

Explicitly require participation and engagement from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR);

Highlight specific trade barriers that limit the export competitiveness of specialty crops in specific markets, including tariff and non-tariff barriers;

Include an assessment of whether each trade barrier is subject to a U.S. FTA or international agreement;

Include specific information with respect to actions taken, or expected to be taken, by the U.S. government to address or resolve each trade barrier; and

Require a request for comment from both the public and the Agricultural Trade Advisory Committee (ATAC) for Trade in Fruits and Vegetables.

Require the report to be made public, while allowing for a classified annex in order to protect U.S. national security and economic strategy.

Continue to define “specialty crop” as “fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture.”

Statements of Support

“U.S. specialty crops are increasingly challenged in foreign markets by creative protectionist tariff and non-tariff barriers. The legislation championed by Senators Wyden and Crapo seeks to call out and identify remedies for these impediments as a first step in eliminating them on behalf of U.S. family farmers. We strongly support this commonsense effort to level the playing field,” said Kam Quarles, Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance Co-chair and National Potato Council CEO.

“Maintaining and expanding access to overseas markets is critical for apple, cherry, and pear growers in the Pacific Northwest. The legislation introduced by Senators Wyden and Crapo will help us understand the trade barriers in export markets and identify solutions to ensure growers remain competitive around the world,” said Mark Powers, President, Northwest Horticultural Council.

""The North American Blueberry Council applauds Senators Wyden and Crapo for introducing the ‘Expanding Agricultural Exports Act.’ The global demand for blueberries continues to increase year-over-year. However, technical barriers and high tariff rates put U.S. blueberry producers at a competitive disadvantage in key export markets. This bill will not only help identify specific barriers affecting specialty crops, but also encourage productive engagement between the industry, Administration, and Congress on real solutions that will drive the growth of U.S. specialty crop exports,” said Kasey Cronquist, President, North American Blueberry Council.

Read the text of the legislation here.

Read a one-page summary of the bill here.

A web version of this release is here.

The bill is cosponsored by Sens. Angus King, I-Maine, Jim Risch, R-Idaho, Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., and Susan Collins, R-Maine.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-announces-winner-oregon-first-districts-2023-congressional-app,Bonamici Announces Winner of Oregon First District’s 2023 Congressional App Challenge,2023-11-13,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. [11/13/23] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici announced that Aashna Nanal, a senior at Westview High School, won the 2023 Congressional App Challenge for Oregon’s First Congressional District.

Her app, AP Course Picker, helps high school students navigate the selection of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. After gathering information about the user’s interests, strengths, and goals through a series of questions, AP Course Picker generates a plan with recommended AP classes for each school year. The app is intended for incoming freshmen who are interested in planning their AP course load over their time in high school.

“Congratulations to Aashna for winning the 2023 Congressional App Challenge,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “Aashna’s app is an innovative resource for students who attend high schools that offer AP classes. I wish Aashna well in her final year of high school, and I’m excited to see what she accomplishes next.”

“A lot of incoming freshmen in high school can be overwhelmed by the amount of AP classes offered as well as the progression of the courses,” said Aashna Nanal. “Considering that AP classes can put students at a great advantage for college, it is very important that all students have accessible information and guidance about AP classes. The purpose of this app is to help high school students navigate choosing Advancement Placement courses by gathering information about their interests, strengths and goals to generate a four year AP course plan for the student.”

You can view a video presentation of the app here.

Judges gave an honorable mention to Lance Skarada for his app, Summit SAT: Math Made Easy. The app aims to make SAT math learning accessible and easy to understand. The app includes a custom study plan, formulas likely to appear on the SAT, tests, and flashcards. Skarada is a senior at West Salem High School and lives in the First Congressional District.

You can view a video presentation of Summit SAT: Math Made Easy here.

Expert judges from Northwest Oregon selected the winning app. The judges evaluated submissions for creativity, originality, user experience, and design. The two judges are:

Cyreena Boston Ashby, CEO, Girls Inc.

Hazel Valdez, Executive Director, PDX Women in Tech (PDXWIT)

Bonamici joined participants from Oregon's First District at a virtual reception where the winning app, AP Course Picker, was announced. The app will be featured in the U.S. Capitol Building and on the House of Representatives website.

Bonamici is a founder and co-chair of the Congressional STEAM Caucus, which advocates for the integration of the arts and design into science, technology, engineering, and math education to encourage creative thinking and engage more students. By supporting and recognizing young coders, Congress is acknowledging the importance of these fields. The U.S. House of Representatives organizes the nationwide Congressional App Challenge each year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-cortez-masto-introduce-bicameral-bill-support-affordable-manufactured,"Bonamici, Cortez Masto Introduce Bicameral Bill to Support Affordable Manufactured Housing Communities",2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) introduced bicameral legislation with Representative Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.-01) to help preserve and revitalize manufactured housing communities.

“We have a severe shortage of housing across the country, and it’s important to maintain and preserve the affordable options we have. Manufactured homes are often more affordable than other housing, but many manufactured housing communities do not have funds to upgrade and repair basic infrastructure such as water and sewer systems, and homeowners typically do not own the land beneath their homes,” said Representative Bonamici. “I’m pleased to work with Senators Cortez Masto and Shaheen to introduce the PRICE Act, which will make the PRICE grant program permanent and protect a crucial source of funding for preserving manufactured housing.”

“Manufactured homes are critical for many families, and my legislation would help communities keep lot rents affordable and make vital infrastructure improvements,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I’ll keep working with my colleagues to address the affordable housing crisis and keep families in their homes.”

“Granite State families shouldn’t have to worry about losing the roof over their heads, but unfortunately, that’s a reality that many face every day,” said Senator Shaheen. “New Hampshire has more than 140 resident-owned manufactured housing communities (ROCs), and this crucial legislation would provide resources to those manufactured housing communities to make much-needed water and infrastructure upgrades and will keep working class families in affordable homes.”

“The housing crisis is impacting communities all across the country,” said Senator Smith. “Manufactured housing is a key solution to this problem and a vital source of affordable housing all over Minnesota,” said Senator Smith. “We need to be doing everything we can to preserve and improve housing security and affordability, and that includes supporting manufactured housing. This bill would help preserve these affordable housing options for residents and owners for years to come, particularly in rural and tribal areas.”

“Everywhere I go in Montana, from Billings to Missoula to Polson, I hear about the need to tackle the lack of affordable housing in our state,” said Senator Tester. “As a third-generation Montanan who is fortunate enough to live on the same plot of land my grandparents homesteaded over 100 years ago, making sure that folks can afford to live in the community they grew up in is personal. Our commonsense legislation will help preserve the supply of affordable housing across our state and revitalize units badly in need of repairs, and I’ll keep fighting until it becomes law.”

“U.S. Sens. Cortez Masto and Shaheen and U.S. Rep. Bonamici have heard the voices of low-income homeowners in ‘mobile’ home communities,” said Resident Owned Communities (ROC) USA® President Paul Bradley. “These are the stories of hardworking families and retirees who simply want to live in resilient and healthy communities, which is something that most Americans take for granted thanks to public investment.”

“Network for Oregon Affordable Housing strongly supports the PRICE program and the resources it will bring to states and local communities across the country,” said Bill VanVliet, Executive Director, Network for Oregon Affordable Housing (NOAH). “Manufactured housing is America’s largest source of unsubsidized affordable housing. The Price program will help preserve and improve existing manufactured housing communities and help create new affordable housing at a cost far below conventionally built housing.

Democrats created the Preservation and Reinvestment Initiative for Community Enhancement (PRICE) grant program in 2022 to help preserve and revitalize manufactured housing in eligible communities. This legislation would make the PRICE program permanent, providing funding for home improvements and neighborhood upgrades for thousands of Americans each year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-bill-amend-grand-ronde-reservation-act,House Passes Bill to Amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act,2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – On Wednesday, November 8, the House passed legislation that amends the Grand Ronde Reservation Act to restore the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde’s right to pursue land claims and compensation. The legislation is co-led by U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas(OR-06) andU.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Val Hoyle (OR-04), and Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05), as well as U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). It now heads to the Senate for further consideration.

“It is fitting that during Native American Heritage Month we have moved a step further toward restoring a vital right held by members of the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde,” said Rep. Bonamici. “The passage of the Grand Ronde Reservation Act amendment in the House brings us closer to correcting historic wrongs, and I hope the Senate brings this needed legislation up for a vote soon.”

“Oregon’s Indigenous peoples, including the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde, have faced countless injustices at the hands of our government. Today, we took a historic step toward righting the wrongs of the past,” said Rep. Salinas. “I am very proud that my first bill to pass the House of Representatives would restore Grand Ronde’s ability to pursue land claims and compensation—a right already enjoyed by the rest of Oregon’s federally recognized tribes. I am hopeful that the Senate will swiftly pass this bill and send it to President Biden for his signature. In the meantime, I am grateful for the continued support of Senator Merkley, my Oregon colleagues, and the many stakeholders who helped create the momentum we needed to make this legislation a reality.”

“Nearly three decades ago, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde sought to fix a historical surveying error within their reservation boundary, only for the federal government to make another error that relinquished the Tribe’s rights to future land claims and compensation. This is just plain wrong,” said Sen. Merkley. “I am thrilled the House passed the legislation I’ve been championing for years, which is a critical step forward in the Grand Ronde’s fight to restore its right to pursue land claims in Oregon—rights already available to other federally-recognized Tribes in Oregon. I will keep pressing for the Senate to do the same, so Congress can finally correct this historic injustice for the Grand Ronde.”

“For generations, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde have been working to restore its people’s rights on ancestral lands,” said Sen. Wyden. “This necessary bill is a critical step in correcting past injustices while protecting the rights of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and the terms of the land exchange that it negotiated in good faith free from unfair legal restrictions.”

“Today is a monumental day. We are grateful that the United States House of Representatives has helped pass legislation for the Grand Ronde Tribe that will help right a historic wrong,” said Grand Ronde Chairwoman Cheryle A. Kennedy. “Words cannot express what this means to us and the gratitude that we have for Senator Merkley and to Representative Salinas, who championed this legislation from the beginning.”

“The federal government has a legal and moral obligation to correct the historic wrongs unleashed on Indigenous communities for centuries,” said Rep. Blumenauer. “That includes restoring the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde’s right to pursue land claims and revise surveying errors like the Thompson Strip. I’m delighted that this critically overdue legislation will see to that.”

“I’m proud to stand with the Oregon delegation in supporting this legislation to right a wrong, and I’m thrilled that it has passed the House,” said Rep. Hoyle. “This bill is not just a technical fix—it's a step towards justice for the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde by restoring their right to pursue land claims and compensation, which should not have been taken from them. I urge the Senate to swiftly pass this legislation as well so that it can be signed into law.""

“The Grand Ronde tribe shouldn’t face barriers that don’t apply to other tribes, and that’s why I’m honored to join my Oregon colleagues in support of amending the Grand Ronde Reservation Act,” said Rep. Chavez-DeRemer. “I’ll continue working with my colleagues and the Grand Ronde tribe to get this needed fix signed into law.”

Salinas and Merkley’s bill to fix the Grand Ronde Reservation Act would correct a drafting error in a 1994 legislative amendment to the Grand Ronde Reservation Act, which authorized a land exchange requiring the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to compensate the Grand Ronde Tribe for an 84-acre survey error by the federal government. The survey error occurred around 1871 and was not discovered by the Bureau of Land Management until 1988. In 1994, in pursuing federal legislation to rectify the error, an amendment was made to the bill at the time that further prohibited the Tribe from making any additional land claims if new errors were ever discovered. Salinas and Merkley’s bill will end this inequitable restriction on the Tribe so that they may pursue recourse if additional survey errors are found. Currently, no other tribe in the State of Oregon is bound by this type of legal restriction and removing it will restore equity to the Grand Ronde Tribe. In case additional survey errors are discovered, this bill to amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act would replace the phrase “lands within the State of Oregon” with the phrase “the 84 acres known as the Thompson Strip,” clarifying that they are only prohibited from making additional land claims to the area known as the Thompson Strip.

To read the full bill text, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-merkley-bill-amend-grand-ronde-reservation-act-passes-house,"Salinas, Merkley Bill to Amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act Passes House",2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Andrea Salinas,S001226,salinas.house.gov,salinas,https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – On Wednesday, November 8, U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas(OR-06) successfully passed her first piece of legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The bill, which was introduced by Rep. Salinas in March, amends the Grand Ronde Reservation Act to restore the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde’s right to pursue land claims and compensation. The legislation is co-led by U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) and cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Val Hoyle (OR-04), and Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05), as well as U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). It now heads to the Senate for further consideration.

“Oregon’s Indigenous peoples, including the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde, have faced countless injustices at the hands of our government. Today, we took a historic step toward righting the wrongs of the past,” said Rep. Salinas. “I am very proud that my first bill to pass the House of Representatives would restore Grand Ronde’s ability to pursue land claims and compensation—a right already enjoyed by the rest of Oregon’s federally recognized tribes. I am hopeful that the Senate will swiftly pass this bill and send it to President Biden for his signature. In the meantime, I am grateful for the continued support of Senator Merkley, my Oregon colleagues, and the many stakeholders who helped create the momentum we needed to make this legislation a reality.”

“Nearly three decades ago, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde sought to fix a historical surveying error within their reservation boundary, only for the federal government to make another error that relinquished the Tribe’s rights to future land claims and compensation. This is just plain wrong,” said Sen. Merkley. “I am thrilled the House passed the legislation I’ve been championing for years, which is a critical step forward in the Grand Ronde’s fight to restore its right to pursue land claims in Oregon—rights already available to other federally-recognized Tribes in Oregon. I will keep pressing for the Senate to do the same, so Congress can finally correct this historic injustice for the Grand Ronde.”

“For generations, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde have been working to restore its people’s rights on ancestral lands,” said Sen. Wyden. “This necessary bill is a critical step in correcting past injustices while protecting the rights of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and the terms of the land exchange that it negotiated in good faith free from unfair legal restrictions.""

“Today is a monumental day. We are grateful that the United States House of Representatives has helped pass legislation for the Grand Ronde Tribe that will help right a historic wrong,” said Grand Ronde Chairwoman Cheryle A. Kennedy. “Words cannot express what this means to us and the gratitude that we have for Senator Merkley and to Representative Salinas, who championed this legislation from the beginning.”

“It is fitting that during Native American Heritage Month we have moved a step further toward restoring a vital right held by members of the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde,” said Rep. Bonamici. “The passage of the Grand Ronde Reservation Act amendment in the House brings us closer to correcting historic wrongs, and I hope the Senate brings this needed legislation up for a vote soon.”

“The federal government has a legal and moral obligation to correct the historic wrongs unleashed on Indigenous communities for centuries,” said Rep. Blumenauer. “That includes restoring the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde’s right to pursue land claims and revise surveying errors like the Thompson Strip. I’m delighted that this critically overdue legislation will see to that.”

“I’m proud to stand with the Oregon delegation in supporting this legislation to right a wrong, and I’m thrilled that it has passed the House,” said Rep. Hoyle. “This bill is not just a technical fix—it's a step towards justice for the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde by restoring their right to pursue land claims and compensation, which should not have been taken from them. I urge the Senate to swiftly pass this legislation as well so that it can be signed into law.""

“The Grand Ronde tribe shouldn’t face barriers that don’t apply to other tribes, and that’s why I’m honored to join my Oregon colleagues in support of amending the Grand Ronde Reservation Act,” said Rep. Chavez-DeRemer. “I’ll continue working with my colleagues and the Grand Ronde tribe to get this needed fix signed into law.”

Salinas and Merkley’s bill to fix the Grand Ronde Reservation Act would correct a drafting error in a 1994 legislative amendment to the Grand Ronde Reservation Act, which authorized a land exchange requiring the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to compensate the Grand Ronde Tribe for an 84-acre survey error by the federal government. The survey error occurred around 1871 and was not discovered by the Bureau of Land Management until 1988. In 1994, in pursuing federal legislation to rectify the error, an amendment was made to the bill at the time that further prohibited the Tribe from making any additional land claims if new errors were ever discovered. Salinas and Merkley’s bill will end this inequitable restriction on the Tribe so that they may pursue recourse if additional survey errors are found. Currently, no other tribe in the State of Oregon is bound by this type of legal restriction and removing it will restore equity to the Grand Ronde Tribe. In case additional survey errors are discovered, this bill to amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act would replace the phrase “lands within the State of Oregon” with the phrase “the 84 acres known as the Thompson Strip,” clarifying that they are only prohibited from making additional land claims to the area known as the Thompson Strip.To read the full bill text, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-jayapal-introduce-legislation-to-provide-alternatives-to-incarceration-for-parents-and-caregivers-to-keep-families-together-children-out-of-foster-care,"Wyden, Jayapal Introduce Legislation to Provide Alternatives to Incarceration for Parents and Caregivers to Keep Families Together, Children Out of Foster Care",2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Legislation is endorsed by nearly 40 criminal justice, civil rights and child welfare organizations

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., today reintroduced legislation that would create an alternative to incarceration for eligible parents and caregivers and provide them the resources needed to keep their children safely at home instead of in the foster care system.

“Children should not be subjected to trauma and uncertainty caused by a broken criminal justice system, which at times needlessly splits up families,” Wyden said. “I’m proud to once again join Representative Jayapal in introducing legislation to expand the work of successful programs in our home states to reduce mass incarceration nationwide and help keep more families together.”

“America’s broken criminal justice system disproportionately impacts Black and Brown communities, breaking up families and adding to our country’s mass incarceration problem,” said Congresswoman Jayapal. “It’s time for us to finally prioritize policies that deliver humane alternatives and shrink the world’s largest prison population, which is why I’m so proud to reintroduce the FAMILIES Act. This legislation, proudly modeled after programs in Washington and Oregon that have reduced recidivism, will divert parents and caregivers from incarceration and invest in their wellbeing with comprehensive services so that we can keep families together and provide resources to ensure their safety and success.”

The Finding Alternatives to Mass Incarceration: Lives Improved by Ending Separation (FAMILIES) Act would allow federal judges to divert parents and caregivers from incarceration into a comprehensive program that would better serve them, their families, and society by offering resources, services and training to meet their unique needs. The legislation is modeled after successful programs in Oregon and Washington state that have already kept hundreds of families together and have been vital to reducing recidivism.

The FAMILIES Act establishes a diversion program that includes education, employment services, parenting skills, mental health and substance abuse services. It also addresses basic needs of the individual and their family by connecting them with health care, housing assistance, and other potential public benefits.

To be eligible, an individual must be: pregnant, a parent of a minor child, a caregiver for a minor child or other minor relative, a caregiver for an individual with disabilities or a caregiver for an elderly family. When considering eligibility for the FAMILIES program, courts will consider the individual’s significant parental or caregiver responsibilities, their history of justice involvement, the safety of their family, and a family impact statement describing the impact that a prison sentence would have on the family of the defendant. Judges will receive training in implementing the FAMILIES program including training on trauma-informed decision making, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, substance abuse and addiction, and mental health.

In the Senate, the legislation was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin, D-Ill., Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., Ed Markey, D-Mass., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Cory Booker, D-N.J., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass, and Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill.

In the House, the legislation was cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton, D-D.C., David Trone, D-Md., Gwen Moore, D-Wis., Suzanne Bonamici, D-Ore., Troy A. Carter, D-La., Jonathan L. Jackson, D-Ill., Henry ""Hank"" Johnson, D-Ga., Jesus ""Chuy"" Garcia, D-Ill.

The legislation is endorsed by: The Sentencing Project, AIDS Alliance for Women, Infants, Children, Youth & Families, Vera Institute of Justice, Drug Policy Alliance, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, National Association of Counsel for Children, National Working Positive Coalition, Community Liver Alliance, National Council of Churches, National Center on Adoption and Permanency, PrEP4All, CURE (Citizens United for Rehabilitation of Errants), NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, Washington Office on Latin America, StoptheDrugWar.org, Union for Reform Judaism, Safer Foundation, Law Enforcement Action Partnership, WE GOT US NOW, Washington Defender Association (Seattle, Wash.), the Osborne Association (New York, N.Y.), the New York Initiative for Children of Incarcerated Parents (New York, N.Y.), CARES of Southwest Michigan (Kalamazoo, Mich.), Sponsors Inc. (Eugene, Ore.), Center For Community Alternatives (New York, N.Y.), A New PATH (Spring Valley, Calif.), Black and Pink Massachusetts (Boston, Mass.), Partners for Our Children (Seattle, Wash.), National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence-Maryland Chapter (Baltimore, Md.), AIDS Foundation Chicago (Chicago, Ill.), Operation Restoration (New Orleans, La.), Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity (Oakland/Los Angeles. Calif.), Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (Seattle, Wash.), Treatment Action Group (Chicago, Ill.), Illinois Alliance for Reentry and Justice (Chicago, Ill.), AIDS Action Baltimore (Baltimore, Md.), Philadelphia Family Pride (Philadelphia, Pa.), Hep Free Hawai'i (Honolulu, Hi.) and AIDS Alabama (Birmingham, Ala.).

Statements of Support

Isabel Coronado, Chair, Campaign to Keep Families Together: ""For too long, criminal justice reform has primarily focused on the incarcerated, leaving the children of the incarcerated as an afterthought. The Families Act addresses this oversight by offering an encouraging example of moving beyond traditional forms of punishment, which inflict years of needless trauma on children, and instead, it explores alternatives that keep families together. Through this legislation, we can invest in the next generation and provide millions of children with the opportunity to thrive, despite their parents' convictions.""

Ebony Underwood, Founder and CEO, WE GOT US NOW: ""For decades children have been separated from their parents due to harsh and cruel policies of incarceration. The Families Act stops this cycle in its tracks with a solution that not only ensures the well-being of the parent through sentencing alternatives, but ensures that the children of the parent are also provided with necessary supports in the process. WE GOT US NOW believes that society must stop incarcerating our way out of problems and understand that children need their parents and some parents need a little more support than others. The Families Act is a legislative effort that acts as a turnkey solution to keeping families connected, creating fair sentencing, and empowering families and communities.""

The text of the bill is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-statement-on-judiciary-committee-vote-advancing-magistrate-mustafa-kasubhais-us-district-court-nomination-to-the-full-senate,"Wyden, Merkley Statement on Judiciary Committee Vote Advancing Magistrate Mustafa Kasubhai’s U.S. District Court Nomination to the Full Senate",2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee today voted to advance to the full Senate U.S. Magistrate Mustafa Kasubhai’s nomination to the U.S. District Court.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-bentz-and-chairman-massie-send-letter-environmental-quality-chair,Chairman Bentz and Chairman Massie Send Letter to Environmental Quality Chair Demanding Answers on Lower Snake River Dams Interference,2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,OR,Cliff Bentz,B000668,bentz.house.gov,bentz,https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust Committee on the Judiciary, Thomas Massie (KY-04) joined Chairman of the Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries Subcommittee, Cliff Bentz (OR-02) in sending a letter to the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) Chair Brenda Mallory requesting documents related to the CEQ's role in mediation and settlement discussions regarding the Lower Snake River Dams.

The letter expresses concern that the CEQ has exceeded its authority by actively participating in these discussions, favoring certain parties, and potentially violating the Administrative Procedure Act.

“The Council on Environmental Quality appears to have dramatically overstepped its authority by interfering in ongoing litigation concerning operation of the Snake River Dams,” said Congressman Bentz. “The CEQ is supposed to act as an advisory board to Federal agencies concerning process and not policy. Instead, it has become the environmental arm of the Biden Administration. This interference is a misuse of the CEQ’s time and resources, extending far beyond its original mandate.”

Read the letter here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-introduces-bipartisan-bill-lower-costs-cancer-patients,Bonamici Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Lower Costs for Cancer Patients,2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Glenn Grothman (R-WI), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Joe Morelle (D-NY), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Brian Higgins (D-NY), and Doris Matsui (D-CA) introduced the Cancer Drug Parity Act. This bill lowers costs for cancer patients prescribed oral medications by requiring that health insurers provide coverage for oral cancer treatments that is equivalent to conventional intravenous (IV) treatments.

Every year, approximately two million Americans are projected to receive a cancer diagnosis. For cancer patients, oral cancer treatments have proven to be a game-changer because they can be administered in the patient’s own home and are overall less intrusive than IV treatments. Despite their proven success and reliability, oral medications have proved costly for patients. A study of patients prescribed oral cancer medications found that one in eight faced copayments of $2,000 or more for their first prescription.

“Oral cancer treatments are an effective option for many patients and can allow for care at home and better disease management,” said Bonamici. “Unlike traditional IV treatments, oral chemotherapy is typically not covered by health insurance plans, leading to high costs and unaffordable co-payments for patients. I’m glad to join my colleagues to introduce the bipartisan Cancer Drug Coverage Parity Act to level the playing field for cancer patients and expand access to lifechanging cancer treatments.”

“Every American deserves the most effective cancer treatments available at the most affordable cost,” said Grothman. “As oral medications increase in popularity among cancer patients, we cannot allow outdated health insurance plans to prevent patients from opting for their preferred method of treatment.

“I am glad both sides of the aisle have come together to lower costs for patients taking oral medications. Increased access to treatment, along with parity in the cancer drug marketplace, will improve patients’ well-being and help save lives.”

""Cancer patients should have access to whichever treatment gives them the best chance to fully recover. Technological advancements are improving patient outcomes while minimizing side effects. Patients deserve to benefit from these advancements. This important bill addresses this problem and enables patients to keep their primary focus on getting well,"" said Bilirakis.

“It is expected that two million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in 2023 alone,” said Fitzpatrick. “I am proud to join my colleagues in leading the bipartisan Cancer Drug Parity Act to expand parity protections for cancer patients who previously could not afford these lifesaving treatments.”

“The Cancer Drug Parity Act is a crucial step in ensuring health insurance coverage evolves alongside the remarkable advancements in cancer treatment,” said Morelle. “By bridging the gap between outdated technology and cutting-edge therapies, this act empowers patients to access the best care available. I’m grateful to my colleagues for joining me in prioritizing the well-being of individuals battling cancer—offering hope and relief when they need it most.”

“A cancer diagnosis is tough on any family and patients deserve to focus on receiving the best treatments without worrying about the cost,” said Higgins. “As Co-Chair of the House Cancer Caucus I am proud to join my colleagues in supporting the bipartisan Cancer Drug Parity Act. Advancements in cancer care, like oral treatments, shouldn’t place a greater financial burden on patients and families. Together we are making cancer care more affordable, accessible, and manageable, which will ultimately save lives.”

“As oral cancer medications continue to increase in number, affordable access to these less intrusive treatments is crucial to ensure the best possible care,” said Matsui. “Families and patients battling cancer should never have to forgo treatment or necessary care because of crippling costs. The bipartisan Cancer Drug Parity Act would end the disparity in coverage for oral treatments – putting power back in the hands of patients and providers to determine the best path to recovery.”

“As leaders of the Coalition to Improve Access to Cancer Care (CIACC), the International Myeloma Foundation proudly endorses the Cancer Drug Parity Act. This crucial piece of legislation would mark a significant stride towards increased access to life-saving treatments, particularly for patients reliant on orally administered anticancer treatments. By eliminating financial barriers, this act empowers individuals battling cancer and their healthcare providers to make informed treatment decisions without undue financial strain. It is imperative that we prioritize affordability and equal access to all forms of anticancer treatments chemotherapy, and the Cancer Drug Parity Act is a pivotal step towards achieving this goal,” said the International Myeloma Foundation.

“We’re thankful to Congressman Grothman for spearheading lifesaving policy that, for many patients, would equalize out-of-pocket costs for cancer drugs, whether they’re taken orally or delivered intravenously,” said Lisa Lacasse, President of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. “Many new chemotherapies such as those in pill form can be easier to tolerate for patients and allow many to have a better quality of life. Ensuring health insurance plans cover cancer treatment at an affordable cost, regardless of how it’s administered, is key to ensuring access to the most innovative therapies for patients across the country.”

Background Information

Oral chemotherapy is becoming more common for many types of cancer, however, health insurance coverage for different types of cancer treatments is not uniform.

Under current law, traditional IV/injectable treatments are routinely covered under the medical benefit component of a health insurance plan, while orally administered anti-cancer medications are generally covered under the prescription drug component, which often results in a considerable disparity in cost and leaving patients responsible for paying high and often unaffordable copays.

This legislation accounts for the advancements in oral cancer treatments by prohibiting insurance companies from imposing pricier copayments on cancer patients compared to IV treatments.

More than 40 states and the District of Columbia have enacted “oral parity” laws, which prevent health plans from creating separate cost-sharing requirements for oral versus IV cancer medicines. These laws have made a significant difference for those suffering from cancer. For example, an analysis of health plan claims from 2008 to 2017 found that the proportion of multiple myeloma patients initially charged $0 for oral medications nearly quintupled, rising from 11 percent to 49 percent, with the enactment of oral parity laws.

The Cancer Drug Parity Act will build on the success of state-level efforts to cancer patients whose health insurance is regulated at the federal level. The key provisions of the legislation include:

· Expanding oral parity protections to privately-insured patients under federal regulation.

· Preventing insurers from covering oral and self-administered medicines at different cost-sharing rates than IV chemotherapy.

· Implementing these requirements for health plans that already cover both oral and IV chemotherapy treatments.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-kaine-lead-colleagues-pushing-renew-expired-funding-child-care,"Bonamici, Kaine Lead Colleagues in Pushing to Renew Expired Funding for Child Care",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Bob Casey (D-PA), along with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-1), Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51), Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11), and Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20), led a bicameral group of their colleagues in urging congressional leadership to renew expired funding for child care in any supplemental funding package. Funding the lawmakers passed in the American Rescue Plan Act to allow parents to afford child care and keep their jobs during COVID expired in September, but the child care crisis continues. Without this funding, many child care providers are struggling with how they’re going to continue to operate and serve families. The lawmakers’ letter comes after President Biden’s supplemental funding request to Congress included $16 billion to address the child care crisis, which the members called forin August.

“We write today to urge you to include robust funding for child care in any supplemental funding package considered by the Appropriations Committee. Child care is unaffordable and hard to find for working families, and child care providers across the country are struggling to stay afloat,” wrote the lawmakers.

“The child care workforce has been one of the slowest sectors to recover from the pandemic, and wages for this critical workforce remain unacceptably low, further fueling the shortage of available child care options for families,” the members continued. “Families and child care providers are feeling increasingly squeezed following the expiration of COVID-19 relief funding for child care, as child care providers scramble to fill the gap in resources previously filled by federal funds.”

The lawmakers wrote, “It is essential that as supplemental funding to meet emergency needs is considered, Congress take action to address the child care crisis. We have an urgent need to further stabilize an industry that has been long underfunded, and Congress must provide robust funding for this sector through a supplemental package.”

Kaine, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, has been pushing to expand access to child care. Kaine has introduced the Child Care for Working Families Act, legislation that would expand access to child care, raise wages for providers, and lower costs for families by ensuring no family pays more than 7% of their income on child care. He has introduced the Child Care Stabilization Actto expand vital child care funding to help providers keep their doors open. He has also introduced bipartisan legislation to develop, administer, and evaluate early childhood education apprenticeships.

In addition to Kaine, Smith, Warren, Sanders, and Casey, the Senate letter is signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tom Carper (D-DE), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Jon Tester (D-MT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

In addition to Bonamici, Jacobs, Sherill, and Castro the House letter was signed by Alma Adams (D-NC), Colin Allred (D-TX), Becca Balint (D-VT), Nanette Barragán (D-CA), Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Donald Beyer (D-VA), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Jamaal Bowman (D-NY), Brendan Boyle (D-PA), Julia Brownley (D-CA), Shontel Brown (D-OH), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Cori Bush (D-MO), Yadira Caraveo, Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Tony Cárdenas (D-CA), André Carson (D-IN), Troy Carter (D-LA), Greg Casar (D-TX), Sean Casten (D-IL), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), Judy Chu (D-CA), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Gerald Connolly (D-VA), Jose Luis Correa (D-CA), Angie Craig (D-MN), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), Danny Davis (D-IL), Donald Davis (D-NC), Madeleine Dean (D-PA), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Veronica Escobar (D-TX), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Dwight Evans (D-PA), Bill Foster (D-IL), Valerie Foushee (D-NC), Lois Frankel (D-FL), Maxwell Frost (D-FL), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), John Garamendi (D-CA), Jesús “Chuy” García (D-IL), Robert Garcia (D-CA), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX), Daniel Goldman (D-NY), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ), Jahana Hayes (D-CT), James Himes (D-CT), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Val Hoyle (D-OR), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Henry “Hank” Johnson (D-GA) Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA), William Keating (D-MA), Robin Kelly (D-IL), Ro Khanna (D-CA), Daniel Kildee (D-MI), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Ann Kuster (D-NH), Greg Landsman (D-OH), Rick Larsen (D-WA), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Summer Lee (D-PA), Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM), Ted Lieu (D-CA), Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Kathy Manning (D-NC), Matsui, Doris; McBath, Lucy; McClellan, Jennifer; McCollum, Betty; McGarvey, Morgan; McGovern, James; Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Grace Meng (D-NY), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Gwen Moore (D-WI), Seth Moulton (D-MA), Kevin Mullin (D-CA), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Grace Napolitano (D-CA), Joe Neguse (D-CO), Donald Norcross (D-NJ), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Chris Pappas (D-NH), Donald Payne Jr. (D-NJ), Scott Peters (D-CA), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), Stacey Plaskett (D-VI), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Katie Porter (D-CA), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), Delia Ramirez (D-IL), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Patrick Ryan (D-NY), Gregoria Kilili Camacho Sablan (D-MP), Andrea Salinas (D-OR), Linda Sánchez (D-CA), John Sarbanes (D-MD), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), Janice Schakowsky (D-IL), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Hillary Scholten (D-MI), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Abigail Spanberger (D-VA), Melanie Stansbury (D-NM), Haley Stevens (D-MI), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA), Eric Swalwell (D-CA), Emilia Sykes (D-OH), Mark Takano (D-CA), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Dina Titus (D-NV), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Norma Torres (D-CA), Ritchie Torres (D-CA), Lori Trahan (D-MA), David Trone (D-MD), Juan Vargas (D-CA), Gabe Vasquez (D-NM), Marc Veasey (D-TX), Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Maxine Waters (D-CA), Jennifer Wexton (D-VA), Susan Wild (D-PA), Nikema Williams (D-GA), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL).

The letter is endorsed by All Our Kin; American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME); American Federation of Teachers (AFT); Campaign for a Family Friendly Economy; Caring Across Generations; Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP); Child Care for Every Family Network; Children’s Institute; Community Change Action; Early Care & Education Consortium (ECEC); Family Values @ Work; First Focus Campaign for Children; House Democratic Women’s Caucus; Mom Congress; Moms First; MomsRising; National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC); National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC); National Education Association (NEA); National Women’s Law Center (NWLC); Oxfam America; Service Employees International Union (SEIU); Small Business Majority; YWCA USA; and ZERO TO THREE.

A copy of the Senate letter is available here. A copy of the House letter is available here.

Full text of the letter is available below:

Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Chair Murray, and Vice Chair Collins:

We write today to urge you to include robust funding for child care in any supplemental funding package considered by the Appropriations Committee. Child care is unaffordable and hard to find for working families, and child care providers across the country are struggling to stay afloat. We are extremely concerned that this crisis will continue to worsen following the expiration of the Child Care Stabilization Grants provided under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), vital funding that sustained an estimated 220,000 child care providers, saved an estimated 9.6 million child care slots, and maintained more than 1 million child care jobs. President Biden acknowledged this urgent issue by requesting significant funding for child care in his domestic supplemental appropriations request to Congress.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress took important steps to protect the child care industry from collapse by delivering historic funding in the economic relief packages passed. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provided the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) with $3.5 billion, the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act provided $10 billion in dedicated relief, and ARPA provided $15 billion for CCDBG and $24 billion for the stabilization grants. On September 30, 2023, the majority of this vital funding expired.

Prior to the pandemic, the child care system was already in a crisis. In 2018, over 50 percent of counties in the United States were considered a child care desert – an area in which the demand for child care is far more than the supply. The broken child care market has resulted in an impossible tension between families, workers, and providers: child care providers cannot afford to run their businesses or pay adequate wages to their staff using revenue from parents alone, while child care costs are unaffordable and unsustainable for working families. For years, the situation has been far worse for families with low incomes, families of color, and families seeking infant and toddler care, care for children with disabilities, and care during non-traditional hours.

The child care workforce has been one of the slowest sectors to recover from the pandemic, and wages for this critical workforce remain unacceptably low, further fueling the shortage of available child care options for families. As of September 2023, the child care industry was missing more than 38,400 workers compared to pre-pandemic levels, and at the rate that child care jobs have been regained in 2023 so far, it could take almost 12 months—until September 2024—for the child care sector to recover pandemic-related job losses. This threatens America’s economic stability and competitiveness. It is estimated that the lack of child care costs our economy $122 billion in lost earnings, productivity, and revenue annually.

Families and child care providers are feeling increasingly squeezed following the expiration of COVID-19 relief funding for child care, as child care providers scramble to fill the gap in resources previously filled by federal funds. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that child care prices increased 1.7% in September 2023, while the Consumer Price Index for all items rose by only 0.2% over the same period. Child care providers in communities across the country are at risk of closure. Already, local news outlets are sharing stories about communities losing child care providers as 43 in Kansas and seven programs serving 300 children in North Carolina have closed following the loss of pandemic-era funding and supports.

Due to your continued support, the fiscal year (FY) 2023 appropriations process yielded a total of $8 billion for CCDBG, which represented a 30 percent increase from FY 2022 funding. We also appreciate that you were able to provide a $700 million increase for CCDBG in the Senate’s proposed FY 2024 spending bill. However, we understand that you are limited on discretionary spending with the passage of the Fiscal Responsibility Act in June. So, it is essential that as supplemental funding to meet emergency needs is considered, Congress take action to address the child care crisis. We have an urgent need to further stabilize an industry that has been long underfunded, and Congress must provide robust funding for this sector through a supplemental package.

The child care stabilization relief funds provided a much-needed lifeline to the child care industry, but it is crucial that, at minimum, we sustain that level of investment to ensure the industry’s survival and prevent a new emergency. Our providers, workers, children, and families need your help. We urge you to utilize every possible tool to provide a robust investment to address the growing child care crisis. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-committee-advances-bonamici-legislation-improve-tsunami-warnings-address,"House Committee Advances Bonamici Legislation to Improve Tsunami Warnings, Address Harmful Algal Blooms",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [11/8/23] – Today the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology approved legislation led by Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) to improve tsunami warning systems and address harmful algal blooms.

The Committee advanced the legislation as amendments to the Weather Act Reauthorization Act, which was co-sponsored by Bonamici and designed to improve the United States’ ability to better forecast, understand, and communicate about weather. The two amendments were based on Bonamici’s Tsunami Warning, Education, and Research Act and Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act.

“Updating the Weather Act provides an important opportunity to make our communities safer,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “I’m grateful that the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology approved my bipartisan amendments to improve our tsunami warning systems and help protect coastal, lake, and river communities from harmful algal blooms that can disrupt local ecosystems and threaten health and the economy. I urge House leadership to quickly bring this legislation to the House floor.”

The Tsunami Warning, Education, and Research Amendments Act of 2023 strengthens tsunami research, detection, and warning systems, improves response and resiliency efforts, and better protects communities that are vulnerable to tsunami. Video of Bonamici’s remarks on the amendment can be found here.

The Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act of 2023 (HABHRCA) helps coastal, lake, and river communities better prepare for, mitigate, and intervene in harmful algal bloom and hypoxia events. These events, which release toxins and create massive “dead zones” respectively, have deadly consequences for fish, shellfish, and local ecosystems. Video of Bonamici’s remarks on the amendment can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-nearly_38-million-in-federal-funds-for-ione,"Wyden, Merkley Announce Nearly  $3.8 Million in Federal Funds for Ione",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Morrow County city to receive USDA resources for sewer system

Washington, D.C. –U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced the city of Ione will receive nearly $3.8 million in federal funds to build a sewer system for the Eastern Oregon town.

“Ensuring Oregon’s rural communities have the infrastructure their residents and small businesses need to grow and develop is paramount for our state’s overall economic health,” Wyden said. “In my Morrow County town hall and others in every corner of the state, I’ve heard how the need to modernize outdated infrastructure is an essential piece to achieve rural quality of life. Ione has worked tirelessly to upgrade its systems so homes keep their value, the new school is supported, and the community can grow.”

“Outdated sewer infrastructure is at greater risk of failing and limits growth and development opportunities for communities,” said Senator Merkley. “Investments such as this are critical not just for the safety of Ione community members, but also for helping the City and surrounding areas thrive.”

Ione lacks a community-wide wastewater collection or disposal system. Each residence and/or business has an individual septic tank and drain field, which limits community growth and development. The federal investment from USDA Rural Development is both a grant of $1.98 million and a loan of $1.81 million.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-31-million-investment-for-oregon-air-national-guard-training-facilities-passes-senate,"Merkley, Wyden Announce $31 million Investment for Oregon Air National Guard Training Facilities Passes Senate",2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced Senate passage of two critical community-initiated projects totaling $31 million for the Oregon Air National Guard.

The investments were included in the FY24 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies funding bill, which cleared the chamber with strong bipartisan support, putting the Oregon Air National Guard closer than ever to completing phases 3 and 4 of their project to consolidate training facilities for the 125th Special Tactics Squadron (STS).

“Oregon’s Air National Guard do critical work to help protect the security of Oregon and our nation,” Merkley said. “This funding for the Special Tactics Complex will help make Oregon a West Coast hub for special tactics training and provide Oregon’s Air National Guard members with up-to-date training and resources.”

“Oregon’s Air National Guard and its dedicated service members play an essential role in the defense of our state and country,” Wyden said. “This Oregon unit, so key to national security, fully deserves this federal investment that would modernize its training and ensure it has the resources it needs to be strong and vital in the years ahead.”

Merkley is the only Oregon member of Congress from either chamber since Senator Mark Hatfield to serve on the Appropriations Committee, which wrote the bill and is one of the most powerful on Capitol Hill. He joined the committee in 2013 so that Oregon would have a strong voice in decisions about the investments our nation should be making.

Senators Merkley and Wyden teamed up to champion the significant investments for the Oregon Air National Guard, as their Special Tactics Squadron’s current buildings for training are set to be returned to the Port of Portland in 2030. The funding will increase operational and energy efficiencies and reduce overall maintenance costs for Oregon National Guard. Once complete, this center is expected to become a West Coast training hub and will be a draw for the 125th Special Tactics Squadron in addition to those looking for specialized training.

“The efforts from Senators Merkley and Wyden and their teams on these projects directly supports our overall mission success and readiness for your local Portland Air National Guard and its service members,” said Brig. Gen. David Unruh, Commander of the Oregon Air National Guard.

Now the bill has cleared the Senate, it will next head to the U.S. House of Representatives. The final legislation to emerge from the process must then be passed by both chambers before it is signed into law.

Senators Merkley and Wyden urge the House to take up the legislation without delay to keep vital government systems and programs running and invest in targeted projects needed in communities across Oregon.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-lee-davidson-and-lofgren-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-reauthorize-and-reform-key-surveillance-law-secure-protections-for-americans-rights,"Wyden, Lee, Davidson and Lofgren Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Reauthorize and Reform Key Surveillance Law, Secure Protections for Americans’ Rights",2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"The Government Surveillance Reform Act Will Establish New Safeguards for Government Surveillance and Accountability for Abuses; Reauthorize and Reform FISA Section 702; Establish Protections for Americans Whose Private Information is Collected Under Other Intelligence Authorities; and Modernize Outdated Surveillance Laws

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, and Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif., today introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Government Surveillance Reform Act, to reauthorize Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act with important new protections for Americans’ constitutional rights.

The legislation is cosponsored by Senators Tammy Baldwin, D-Wisc., Steve Daines, R-Mont., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, Cynthia Lummis, R-Wy., Jon Tester, D-Mont., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Edward Markey, D-Mass.

In the House, the bill is cosponsored by Reps. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., Thomas Massie, R-Ky., Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif., Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., Rep. Judy Chu, D-Calif., Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Calif., Rep. Lou Correa, D-Calif., and Rep. Ted Lieu, D-Calif.

“Americans know that it is possible to confront our country’s adversaries ferociously without throwing our constitutional rights in the trash can. But for too long surveillance laws have not kept up with changing times.” Wyden said. “Our bill continues to give government agencies broad authority to collect information on threats at home and abroad, including the ability to act quickly in emergencies and settle up with the court later. But it creates much stronger protections for the privacy of law-abiding Americans, and restores the warrant protections that are at the heart of the Fourth Amendment.”

“The FISA Court and the Director of National Intelligence have confirmed that our government conducted warrantless surveillance of millions of Americans’ private communications,” Senator Lee said. “It is imperative that Congress enact real reforms to protect our civil liberties, including warrant requirements and statutory penalties for privacy violations, in exchange for reauthorizing Section 702. Our bipartisan Government Surveillance Reform Act stops illegal government spying and restores the Constitutional rights of all Americans.”

“For decades, U.S. Intelligence agencies have been circumventing our 4th Amendment right to privacy by spying on Americans without a warrant. The government Surveillance Accountability Act would end abuses under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act and end unauthorized surveillance programs,” said Rep. Warren Davidson.

“It would be unwise for Members of Congress to greenlight another major surveillance reauthorization without carefully considering and enacting surveillance reform measures. For too long, federal intelligence and law enforcement agencies have had nearly unchecked access to Americans’ personal data,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren. “Our bipartisan, bicameral comprehensive and calibrated legislation provides reform solutions sought for decades. With widespread support from across the political spectrum the Government Surveillance Reform Act would dramatically curb surveillance abuse and protect Americans' civil liberties, while preserving national security.”

The bill reauthorizes Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) for 4 years, allowing intelligence agencies to continue to use the authorities granted by that law, but with key new protections against documented abuses and new accountability measures when abuses occur. It also includes a host of reforms to government surveillance authorities beyond Section 702, including requiring warrants for government purchases of private data from data brokers.

Although surveillance proponents claimed that the previous 702 reauthorization included sufficient safeguards to prevent abuse, intelligence agencies have documented extensive new violations in recent years. Abuses include warrantless searches for a U.S. Senator, a member of Congress, and a state court judge, among others.

The bill’s reforms include:

Protecting Americans from warrantless backdoor searches, ensuring that foreigners aren’t targeted as a pretext for spying on the Americans with whom they are communicating, and prohibiting the collection of domestic communications.

Extending similar reforms to surveillance activities under Executive Order 12333, including by limiting warrantless searches of Americans’ communications and prohibiting the targeting of foreigners as a pretext for surveilling Americans. It also limits the acquisition of Americans’ information as part of large datasets.

Requiring warrants for surveillance of Americans’ location data, web browsing and search records, including AI assistants like Alexa and Siri, vehicle data and by prohibiting the government from purchasing Americans’ data from data brokers.

Exceptions to ensure the government can continue to use Section 702 for defensive cybersecurity purposes, to assist in locating and rescuing hostages overseas and emergency provisions in cases where there isn’t sufficient time to get a warrant in advance.

The bill has been endorsed by dozens of civil society organizations:

Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC), AAPI Equity Alliance, AAPI Victory Alliance, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Americans for Prosperity, API Equality-LA, Asian American Federal Employees for Nondiscrimination (AAFEN), Asian Texans for Justice, Aurora Commons LLC, Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law, Center for Democracy & Technology, Chinese for Affirmative Action, Demand Progress, Due Process Institute, Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC), Empowering Marginalized Asian Communities, Fight for the Future, FreedomWorks, Free Press Action, Libertas Institute, Media Alliance, Muslim Advocates, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL), Oakland Privacy, OCA, OCA Greater Cleveland - Asian Pacific American Advocates, OCA Silicon Valley, Project for Privacy and Surveillance Accountability (PPSA), Project on Government Oversight (POGO), Restore the Fourth, Secure Justice, Stop AAPI Hate, Surveillance Technology Oversight Project and X-Lab.

The bill was hailed as the most comprehensive and balanced government surveillance legislation in years, by groups across the political spectrum:

Bob Goodlatte, former Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee and Senior Policy Advisor of the Project for Privacy and Surveillance Accountability (PPSA): “For far too long, the government has abused Section 702. This statute, enacted by Congress to surveil foreign threats in foreign lands, has become a tool to subject countless Americans to warrantless surveillance. The reforms in this bill ensure that our Constitutional rights will once again be respected, just as the Founders intended. PPSA appreciates this well-crafted bill – especially its tough accountability provisions. Rogue agents in the intelligence community and FBI who intentionally violate the law to spy on Americans must be held responsible.”

Sean Vitka, Policy Director, Demand Progress: “This year represents the most significant opportunity for protecting Americans from warrantless government surveillance in generations, and the GSRA rises to the challenge. Section 702 must not be reauthorized without the critical, comprehensive privacy protections in this bill.”

Jason Pye, Director of Rule of Law Initiatives, Due Process Institute: “Due Process Institute strongly supports the bipartisan and bicameral Government Surveillance Reform Act. For too long, arrogance prevented the intelligence apparatus and its allies in Congress from coming to the table to negotiate reforms. Now that reauthorization of Section 702 has been made difficult by the politically diverse community of advocates and lawmakers demanding commonsense to protect Americans from warrantless surveillance, the intelligence community has become more willing to listen. Unfortunately, however, they have only put forward unacceptable half measures. The Government Surveillance Reform Act is the only path forward to protect Americans from warrantless surveillance.”

John C. Yang, President and Executive Director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC: ""Asian Americans are disproportionately scrutinized as compared to other Americans in the name of ‘national security.’ When it comes to the federal government’s surveillance—whether pursuant to Section 702 of FISA or other surveillance authorities—Asian Americans are likely to be ‘incidentally’ spied on at a higher rate, simply because we have family, friends, and business associates who live abroad. This is highly concerning, given how the federal government is able to run backdoor searches through this data without a warrant. This critical bill would put in place protections and transparency mechanisms that help to regulate the collection of Americans’ sensitive communications, and reign in the likely greater impact that such existing authorities have on communities of color.""

James Czerniawski, Senior policy Analyst, Americans for Prosperity: “The U.S. intelligence community has frequently misused its authorities under FISA, including Section 702, as well as other surveillance powers, eroding trust in institutions responsible for Americans' safety. Protecting our constitutional rights and national security are not mutually exclusive goals. The Government Surveillance Reform Act is a critical step toward restoring trust, protecting constitutional rights, and maintaining public safety. We commend Senators Wyden and Lee, along with Representatives Davidson and Lofgren for their leadership in advancing this important legislation.”

A one-page summary of the bill is here.

A section-by-section summary of the bill is here.

Read the full bill here.

The bill’s bipartisan, bicameral co-sponsors praised the introduction:

“Freedom and privacy are bedrock Montana values, and no DC bureaucrat or government agency should be able to access Montanans’ personal information without a warrant,” said Sen. Jon Tester. “My bipartisan bill will slam shut dangerous loopholes to ensure that government can’t intrude on Montanans’ personal lives and help folks across the Treasure State rest easy knowing their Constitutional rights won’t be violated.”

“Federal intelligence agencies have access to powerful surveillance tools that help protect our national security from foreign threats – but these tools too often violate Americans’ privacy rights,” said Sen. Elizabeth Warren. “This bill will rein in these abuses and reform FISA’s Section 702 to protect Americans from mass, warrantless surveillance.”

“Americans have a constitutional right to be protected from unreasonable searches and seizures that is nonnegotiable,” said Sen. Steve Daines. “As the federal government is increasingly sticking it’s nose into Americans’ private conversations and records, we must put an end to illegitimate searches and protect this fundamental right.”

“Americans have a constitutional right to privacy, but Section 702 has been used to violate that right hundreds of thousands of times. That is why we cannot reauthorize FISA without a major overhaul,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal. “I’m proud to join Senator Wyden and Representatives Davidson and Lofgren in leading this legislation to ensure that the right to privacy is protected for all people.”

“For decades, our intelligence agencies have offered us a false choice: either keep our country safe or protect Americans’ constitutional right to privacy. But we can and must do both,” said Rep. Sara Jacobs. “Yet, Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) has enabled the warrantless collection of Americans’ activities – from phone calls and website searches to emails and location data – with too little oversight and accountability. That’s why I’m so proud to co-lead the bipartisan and bicameral Government Surveillance Reform Act, which gives our intelligence agencies the necessary tools to combat terrorism, safeguards Americans’ rights, and ensures robust oversight. This is the framework we need to protect our country and uphold our values.”

“Adding these privacy safeguards to FISA will ensure our civil liberties are protected without sacrificing national security. We have learned the hard way that unchecked surveillance is a violation of our right to privacy. I strongly support comprehensive overhaul of FISA with the Government Surveillance Reform Act, and urge my colleagues to put their constituents first and do the same,” said Rep. Barbara Lee.

“Unwarranted and unchecked surveillance violates our constitutional rights,” said Rep. Lloyd Doggett. “By providing essential reforms to encompass new technological developments in an ever-changing landscape, this legislation recognizes that ensuring our national security need not require trampling individual liberties.”

“As new technologies emerge, we must ensure Americans’ data privacy is protected,” said Rep. Ted Lieu. “I’m pleased to co-author the bipartisan and bicameral Government Surveillance Reform Act, a comprehensive package of key reforms that strike an important balance between defending Americans’ civil liberties while protecting our national security. I’m also glad to see our Cell-Site Simulator Warrant Act and key provisions from our Government Surveillance Transparency Act included in the legislation.”

""Since its passage in 2008, FISA's Section 702 has been used by federal law enforcement to access sensitive information about people in the United States without a warrant, including their communications and location information, that is otherwise protected by the Fourth Amendment,” said Rep. Judy Chu. “As Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I am particularly concerned about the disproportionate impact Section 702 of FISA has on Asian Americans and members of the Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim, and South Asian, or AMEMSA, communities, who have been subject to Section 702 ‘backdoor searches’ simply because we have family, friends, and business associates in foreign countries. Racial profiling in the name of ‘national security’ has historically upended countless innocent lives, and that is why I joined as an original cosponsor of the Government Surveillance Reform Act, which would put in place much-needed, commonsense reforms to Section 702 that would protect the rights of Americans while preserving national security.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/advisory-wyden-lee-davidson-lofgren-biggs-to-announce-bipartisan-bicameral-surveillance-reform-legislation,"ADVISORY: Wyden, Lee, Davidson, Lofgren, Biggs To Announce Bipartisan, Bicameral Surveillance Reform Legislation",2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Government Surveillance Reform Act will Reauthorize and Reform FISA Section 702, Add Accountability for Abuses of Government Surveillance and Strengthen Constitutional Protections for Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., with Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif., and Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., will hold a press conference on Tuesday, November 7, to unveil new legislation to reauthorize and reform Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, and enact other reforms to protect Americans’ rights while preserving key surveillance authorities.

WHO:

U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore.

U.S. Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah

U.S. Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio

U.S. Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif.

U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz.

Speakers representing civil society organizations advocating for civil liberties and Constitutional rights

Additional cosponsors of the Government Surveillance Reform Act will be in attendance

WHEN: 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 7

WHERE: Senate Dirksen 215 -- Senate Finance Committee hearing room

WHAT: Press conference to release bipartisan surveillance reform legislation

Members of the media are encouraged to attend and RSVP to luis_soriano@wyden.senate.gov

For those who cannot attend, the event will be livestreamed on Sen. Wyden’s YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/user/SenRonWyden

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-hoyle-oregon-to-receive-nearly-900000-to-promote-local-and-regional-food-systems,"Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle: Oregon to Receive Nearly $900,000 to Promote Local and Regional Food Systems",2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley as well as U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle today announced nearly $900,000 in federal funds for Oregon to help increase the availability of locally sourced agricultural products and strengthen local and regional food systems statewide.

“Oregon has some of the best produce in the world growing right here in our state, and supporting hardworking Oregonians in agriculture and fishing is a huge priority,” said Wyden. “This federal investment is key to helping our state’s farmers and fishers as well as all Oregonians to enjoy the bounty of produce from growers across Oregon.”

“Oregon’s food, fiber, and fishing products are world-class, and folks across the state deserve to access and enjoy them,” said Merkley. “These federal investments will expand and strengthen our local food systems and increase the availability of locally grown agricultural and fishing products. The result will be a win-win for the fishers and farmers driving our economy, and for Oregon families looking to put more homegrown products on their kitchen tables.”

“Oregon’s farmers, fishers and consumers are all better off when we invest in our local and regional food systems,” said Rep. Hoyle. “We’re bringing Oregonians’ tax dollars back home to invest in projects through Central Coast Food Web in Newport to support more local consumption of Oregon’s world-class sustainable seafood, and Friends of Family Farmers in Junction City to help create more opportunities for small local market farmers. This will mean jobs and more access to high-quality local products for Oregonians.”

The $867,133 in federal funds comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Local Agriculture Market Program, Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion Programs and the Regional Food System Partnerships grant programs. These awards will be distributed in Oregon as follows:

Friends of Family Farmers, Junction City – $264,360

Pacific NW CSA Coalition, Portland – $124,999

Central Coast Food Web, Newport - $477,774",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bentz-secures-amendment-prohibiting-funding-establishment-monument,Congressman Bentz Secures Amendment Prohibiting Funding for Establishment of Monument,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,OR,Cliff Bentz,B000668,bentz.house.gov,bentz,https://bentz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Cliff Bentz (OR-02) announced that his amendment to H.R. 4821, the Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024, was adopted and included in the bill which passed out of the House of Representatives on November 3rd. The amendment prohibits the use of funds approved in the bill for the establishment of any National Monument in Malheur County, Oregon.

“We don’t want a 2.5-million-acre monument promoted by Portland-based environmental groups making decisions for land they have never seen and frankly, only care about in the abstract. We must have a land management process that is based on the people who live, work, appreciate and recreate in Malheur County,” Congressman Bentz stated. “The Bureau of Land Management already controls 67% of our county, and a national monument designation would be damaging to the land and communities in Malheur. Our amendment sends a clear message to the President that we oppose a National Monument and that this would undermine the hard work that local groups have been doing for the better part of six years to protect this land.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/dea-heeds-wydens-call-for-action-on-adhd-drug-shortage,DEA Heeds Wyden’s Call for Action on ADHD Drug Shortage,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Senator pressed agency to improve drug quota process

Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Ron Wyden responded today to the Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) announcement that the agency will make changes to its prescription stimulants quota process to respond to shortages of ADHD drugs and other medications.

“It is encouraging that ADHD medication manufacturers have committed to the DEA that they will use their allotted quota amounts and increase production,” Wyden said. “It’s clear that part of the reason that Americans are facing these prescription drug shortages, particularly in rural areas in my home state, is that the DEA’s quota system relies on outdated or incomplete data. While I understand there is no silver bullet to fixing the drug shortage, I hope these rule changes will provide much-needed transparency and flexibility to the DEA quota process, which will help more Oregonians and Americans get the medicines they need when they need them. I will continue to watchdog and make sure these changes work as intended, and look for every opportunity to improve this serious crisis hurting families across Oregon and entire United States.""

The DEA sets production quotas that limit the manufacturing of certain controlled prescription drugs. Over the past several months Senator Wyden has repeatedly pressed DEA Administrator Anne Milgram and Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Robert Califf to address the role that these quotas have played in the ongoing shortage of Adderall and other prescription stimulants. After the DEA and FDA released a joint statement at his request in August, Wyden urged ADHD drug manufacturers to boost their production or relinquish their excess quota to help address the shortage.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-reintroduce-legislation-to-end-criminalization-of-students-and-create-safer-environment-for-kids,"Wyden, Colleagues Reintroduce Legislation to End Criminalization of Students and Create Safer Environment for Kids",2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today that he and Senate colleagues have reintroduced legislation that would invest in safe and nurturing school environments that support all students and address over-policing in K-12 schools.

“The school to prison pipeline is a problem which disproportionately hurts students of color and creates an environment of learning in fear of being arrested,” Wyden said. “Closing the school to prison pipeline means investing in and improving student well-being. That’s why I’m proud to cosponsor legislation that would help create safer school environments by redirecting federal funding to support additional behavioral health and counseling staff in schools.”

Research shows the presence of police in schools leads to an increase in arrests of students — particularly students of color and students with disabilities — often for common misbehavior that a school could address without law enforcement. Meanwhile the presence of mental and behavioral health personnel in schools, like counselors, social workers and psychologists improves educational outcomes for kids — specifically by improving attendance and graduation rates while lowering the rates of suspension, expulsion and other disciplinary incidents.

The Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act would prohibit the use of federal funds to maintain police presence in schools and instead provide $5 billion in new grant funding to help schools hire more counselors, social workers, and other mental and behavioral health personnel — as well as implement services in schools that create positive and safe climates for all students.

Specifically, the legislation would:

Prohibit the use of federal funds for maintaining police in schools.

Instead, federal funds would be diverted toward other uses related to school safety within applicable grant programs.

Invest billions to help schools hire counselors, social workers, and other trauma-informed support personnel necessary to create safe, supportive learning environments for all students.

The grant funding would also help schools implement programs to improve school climate, such as school-wide positive behavioral interventions and supports, and invest in trauma-informed services and professional development.

Provide incentives to states and school districts to end the criminalization of young people — particularly Black, Native American and Latino students, immigrant students, students with disabilities, LGBTQ+ students and other historically marginalized students.

The legislation was led by U.S. Senator Chris Murphy D-Conn. Alongside Wyden, the bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Ed Markey, D-Mass., and Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.

This legislation is supported by Activists With A Purpose Plus, Advancement Project, Advocating 4 Kids Inc, Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint, Alliance for Quality Education, Alliance to Reclaim Our Schools, American Association of University Women, American Civil Liberties Union, American Humanist Association, AMORC, ARISE, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, Black Organizing Project, Black Swan Academy, Blue Future and many other organizations.

A one-page summary of the legislation is here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases/salinas-panetta-introduce-bill-connect-local-farmers-food-banks-keep-families,"Salinas, Panetta Introduce Bill to Connect Local Farmers with Food Banks, Keep Families Fed",2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Andrea Salinas,S001226,salinas.house.gov,salinas,https://salinas.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) introduced the Farmers Feeding America Act, a bill that would help food banks meet demand and ensure families stay fed and healthy by expanding the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) ability to purchase food directly from producers, including Oregon’s small family farms.

“The pandemic caused higher rates of food insecurity in Oregon and across the country, and food banks have struggled to keep up with the increased demand,” said Rep. Salinas. “The Farmers Feeding America Act will address this problem by providing more funding for The Emergency Food Assistance Program, ensuring our local food banks are fully stocked. Furthermore, this legislation will support local farms by giving USDA more resources to purchase food directly from producers. I’m proud to introduce this bill today because it will connect farmers with our communities and help families put food on the table this holiday season.”

“Rising food insecurity around the country has put a strain on community food banks tirelessly working to meet the needs of some of our most vulnerable families,” said Rep. Panetta. “The Farmers Feeding America Act tackles this pressing issue by doubling assistance to our local food banks and better supporting partnerships with local producers. California’s 19th Congressional District is blessed with immense bounty, and as families share in our harvest over the holidays, this legislation would help us combat hunger throughout the year.”

Last year, 49 million people – or one in six Americans – received some form of food assistance. However, as higher prices continue to impact working families’ ability to afford food and basic necessities, local food banks are often unable to meet supply and demand needs in their communities.

The Farmers Feeding America Act would significantly increase funding for The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). TEFAP provides commodities like fruits and vegetables, as well as monetary support, to food banks, food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other types of emergency feeding organizations. In addition to serving individuals, TEFAP supports local agriculture by enabling USDA to purchase food directly from producers.

In addition to Reps. Salinas and Panetta, the Farmers Feeding America Act is supported by the following organizations: Feeding America, Alliance to End Hunger, Oregon Food Bank, Marion Polk Food Share, California Association of Food Banks, Second Harvest of Silicon Valley, Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County, Share Our Strength, DoorDash, and the CEA Alliance.

“In every community across the U.S., people are working hard to provide for themselves and their families. Yet in 2022, 44 million people—1 in 7 people—experienced food insecurity in the U.S., according to the USDA. The Emergency Food Assistance Program, or TEFAP, helps bridge the food gap for millions of families and individuals by moving nutritious foods from U.S. farmers to local food banks. But in recent years, TEFAP support has decreased as demand for food assistance has increased. Feeding America food banks have seen a 48% decline in TEFAP foods over the last two years. The Farmers Feeding America Act introduced by Reps. Andrea Salinas and Jimmy Panetta would strengthen TEFAP, a cornerstone of the charitable food system, and ensure equitable access to the program for noncontiguous states. We urge Congress to ease the strain on our nation’s food banks by including this crucial provision in the final 2023 Farm Bill,” said Vince Hall, Chief Government Relations Officer, Feeding America.

“The recently reported increase in U.S. food insecurity shows what food banks have been keenly aware of—food demand continues to be extraordinarily high. It is time to substantially increase our nation’s investment in TEFAP to ensure community residents in need can access this vital support,” said Minerva Delgado, Director of Coalitions & Advocacy, Alliance to End Hunger.

""Between rising food and housing prices and sharp reductions in federal support, far too many families are finding it hard to keep food on the table. The Farmers Feeding America Act is crucial to our efforts to meet the heightened need for food assistance here in Oregon and nationwide,"" said Oregon Food Bank President Susannah Morgan. “With increased funding for The Emergency Food Assistance Program and new resources for food distribution and storage, this legislation will help our communities procure fresh produce and dairy products and address food deserts — especially in under-resourced and remote areas. No one should be hungry, and this investment will have resounding impact for millions of people facing food insecurity.”

“Families and children are facing tough times right now. More than ever, our community needs the Farmers Feeding America Act to make sure children and families have the food they need to thrive,” said Rick Gaupo, President & CEO, Marion Polk Food Share.

“With the price of food continuing to climb and over one in five households in California experiencing food insecurity, food banks across the state are working nonstop to meet their communities’ needs. TEFAP is the backbone of food banks’ distributions, helping them to provide a steady variety of grocery staples. We are grateful to Rep. Panetta and Rep. Salinas for introducing this bill that will ensure robust funding for TEFAP, empowering food banks to prevent hunger for millions more people across the country,” said Stacia Hill Levenfeld, Chief Executive Officer, California Association of Food Banks.

""Second Harvest of Silicon Valley, like so many food banks across the country, is serving almost the same number of people as during the height of the pandemic, but without the same level of community and government support,” said Leslie Bacho, Chief Executive Officer, Second Harvest of Silicon Valley. “With inflation in food and gas prices, and reductions in government benefits, many families are struggling to meet their basic needs and are turning to food banks to help close the gap. This additional TEFAP funding is crucial to support food banks in providing our communities with the food they need to thrive.""

""Congressman Panetta's visionary leadership and this groundbreaking legislation are crucial for Central Coast food banks. In the wake of the pandemic's aftermath and the relentless surge in inflation, the demand for supplemental nutrition has soared. This bill would not just be a win; it would be a lifeline, bridging our agricultural partners to the tables of community members fighting food insecurity every single day,"" said Erica Padilla-Chavez, Chief Executive Officer, Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County.

To read the full text of this legislation, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-senate-passage-of-critical-affordable-housing-and-transportation-infrastructure-investments-for-oregon,"Merkley, Wyden Announce Senate Passage of Critical Affordable Housing and Transportation Infrastructure Investments for Oregon",2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Federal investments included in the Fiscal Year 2024 Senate funding bill champion affordable housing, small ports, and more

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced major investments passed the Senate to expand affordable, rural, and veterans housing options and boost transportation infrastructure, including funding for 20 critical community-initiated projects across the state.

The investments were included in the FY24 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD) bill, which cleared the chamber with strong bipartisan support.

“As I held a town hall in each of Oregon’s 36 counties this year, I heard firsthand from folks about what matters most to them, including the need to take on the affordable housing crisis, build drought resilience, and move the state faster toward a renewable energy future,” Merkley said. “The funding included in these bills for programs and critical community-initiated projects will benefit Oregonians in every corner of the state for years to come, and I will keep championing them in Congress until they become law.”

“Wherever I go in our state, teachers, nurses, firefighters, veterans and other hardworking Oregonians tell me about the urgent need for housing they can afford,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified to have teamed up with communities across Oregon on these federal funds to work toward those housing goals as well as equally crucial objectives that invest in transportation infrastructure, green energy and more.

Merkley is the only Oregon member of Congress from either chamber since Senator Mark Hatfield to serve on the Appropriations Committee, which wrote the bill and is one of the most powerful on Capitol Hill. He joined the committee in 2013 so that Oregon would have a strong voice in decisions about the investments our nation should be making.

Senators Merkley and Wyden secured investments for a total of 20 Oregon community-initiated projects in the Senate THUD spending bill, which are as follows:

$5 million for TriMet to construct a new facility that will be a critical hub for powering and maintaining hundreds of zero-emissions busses, key to achieving TriMet’s commitment to a zero-emissions fleet by 2040.

$4 million for the City of North Bend to help demolish the old Coos County annex and construct affordable workforce housing for critically needed workers in education, public safety, logistics, and the healthcare industry.

$4 million for the Port of Hood River to help replace the Hood River/White Salmon Bridge. This lifeline across the Columbia River is almost 100 years old, inadequately sized, and dangerous to both bridge users and the river traffic that passes between its narrowly placed piers. Funding will cover early-phase costs of the project, including right-of-way acquisition and mitigation for impacts to tribal fishing access during construction, with the goal of breaking ground in 2025.

$4 million for the Port of Portland to complete necessary infrastructure improvements to redevelop the Port’s former Marine Terminal 2 into a housing innovation campus. This will become a housing hub for innovators to collaborate on ways to address the affordable housing crisis by improving the housing construction industry and creating more housing options. The Innovation Campus is expected to create about 17,000 good-paying jobs for rural, urban, and BIPOC communities and work to provide housing for working families and those on fixed incomes.

$3 million for the Columbia Cascade Housing Corporation to develop affordable housing in The Dalles on Chenowith Loop. The 75-unit building will provide housing and services to veterans, families, and households experiencing severe and persistent mental health challenges.

$2 million for the City of Portland to help with construction costs for its Barbur Apartments project in Southwest Portland. This development will offer 149 family-focused affordable rental units between one and four bedrooms, serving extremely low and low-income households.

$2 million for Portland Community Reinvestment Initiatives Inc for its project to provide 75 units of multigenerational, affordable rental housing on the historic Williams and Russel block in inner Northeast Portland to help reverse displacement of BIPOC and low-income families who owned property and lived in the neighborhood before their homes were unjustly taken from them by the City fifty years ago.

$1.565 million for DevNW to build 54 Community Land Trust (CLT) affordable homes in Corvallis. The homes will be 2-3 bedrooms and sold to low-to-moderate income families. The homes will be permanently affordable for subsequent Oregon homebuyers, helping to address the urgent affordable housing crisis in Benton County.

$1.5 million for Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity to construct 15 permanently affordable townhomes for workforce families. Due to soaring home prices in Central Oregon, workforce families are being priced out of the housing market. With this permanent affordability model, this investment supports not only these 15 homes and families, supporting each family who lives in the homes in perpetuity. After the completion of this project, Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity will have built 230 homes in Bend and Redmond since 1989, 71 of which are permanently affordable.

$1.5 million for the Pendleton Children’s Center to purchase and renovate a building next to their current facility in Pendleton to provide more space for childcare. Affordable, reliable, and high-quality childcare is much needed in Pendleton and is necessary to allow parents to join the workforce or to further their own education. The center’s goal is to help address this issue by enrolling a total of 150 children, in comparison to the current 36.

$1.5 million for the Portland Opportunities Industrialization Center and Rosemary Anderson High School to complete a two-acre mass timber community redevelopment called the Sunrise Learning Center. The property is in the diverse and economically disadvantaged Rockwood district. It will serve as a hub for small, locally owned businesses and community organizations, educational facilities for vulnerable youth, and affordable housing designed in collaboration with the community.

$1 million for Neighborhood House, Inc.—Portland’s largest food pantry on the west side and the only senior center in Southwest Multnomah County— for construction costs to renovate a newly-acquired building. This project will allow for program expansion, including developing a consortium of food providers that will serve as a centralized hub for combating hunger through shared resources and greater efficiency.

$900,000 for the City of Forest Grove for their project to install three 100 KW solar arrays at community facilities. This will reduce energy costs for low-income customers while reducing fossil gas dependence and combatting economic inequity.

$775,000 toward construction for the relocation and expansion of the Ella Curran Food Bank in Polk County. This project will allow the Food Bank to continue to serve as a safety net against hunger and food insecurity amid increasing community need.

$750,000 for Williams & Russell Community Development Corporation (CDC) for its project to construct a 20-unit townhouse style condominium development that will be affordable to families and prioritizes housing Black community members as an effort to foster restorative justice for their displacement from this block 50 years ago.

$650,000 for the City of Sutherlin to acquire and develop a 13-acre parcel and 17,000-sq. foot building to provide emergency shelter and supportive, wrap around services to address health, financial, or other barriers to securing stable housing for people experiencing homelessness in Sutherlin, Oregon.

$500,000 for the African Youth & Community Organization (AYCO) to go toward finalizing construction of a community center which will continue providing culturally specific, safe spaces for East African immigrants in Portland.

$500,000 for Community Action Resource Enterprises, Inc. (CARE) to renovate an existing building to serve as Tillamook County’s first low-barrier navigation center for folks experiencing houselessness. The center will be co-located with employment, support, and case management services.

$400,000 for the Oregon Wildlife Heritage Foundation for their projects to secure wildlife crossings on I-5 in Southern Oregon, which bisects the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. The funding will complete design and engineering for fencing to accompany two high-priority wildlife overcrossings in the region renowned for its remarkable ecology and diverse range of biological resources.

$220,000 for the Travel Information Council (TIC) to install panels of tribal-approved historical interpretation in 12 safety rest areas in Oregon. Currently, travelers stopping at rest areas in Eastern Oregon along I-84 have access to informational kiosks that feature the Oregon Trail. The funds will be used to update the text of these kiosks to be more accurate and more comprehensively describe the landscapes and the people along the Oregon Trail—both those newly arriving as well as those who had already lived here for millennia.

For quotes from community-initiated project recipients included in the THUD bill, click HERE.

Other key funding in the THUD bill that passed the Senate with broad bipartisan support include:

Affordable Housing: As rural and urban communities across Oregon continue to experience housing crises, the bill includes an increase for affordable housing programs for some of Oregon’s most vulnerable people—low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities, including $8.875 billion for housing unit specific rental assistance. The THUD bill also protects funding for housing programs that benefit the elderly and people with disabilities.

Rural Housing: The Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP) and Rural Capacity Building Program received $13.5 million and $6 million, respectively. SHOP provides funds for non-profit sweat-equity homebuilders, such as Habitat for Humanity, to cover land purchases and infrastructure costs. The Rural Capacity funds are intended to build the capacity of rural low-income housing non-profits by providing training, information, technical assistance, and financing.

HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing: The program received an additional $30 million to provide rental assistance vouchers for homeless veterans, along with case management and clinical services. This increase will provide additional rental vouchers for veterans experiencing homelessness, and when combined with prior year appropriations and available unleased vouchers, has the potential to dramatically reduce veteran homelessness.

Homeless Assistance and Prevention: The THUD bill includes $3.9 billion for Homeless Assistance Grants, a $275 million increase that will benefit organizations across Oregon. Within that funding, rapid rehousing programs for victims of domestic violence would receive an additional $52 million; homeless youth programs would receive $107 million; and Emergency Solutions Grants—particularly important to the Portland metro area—will receive $290 million to support street outreach, emergency shelter, homelessness prevention, and rapid re-housing assistance.

HOME Investment Partnerships Program: The THUD bill includes $1.5 billion for the program to provide states and localities with flexible resources to respond to their affordable housing challenges, including rental housing and paths to homeownership for low-income families.

Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation: The program, also known as NeighborWorks America, received $168 million in the bill. The national nonprofit offers support for affordable housing and community development through public-private partnerships.

Community Development: The bipartisan THUD bill includes $3.3 billion for the Community Development Block Grant Program. This program funds vital housing rehabilitation, supportive services, public improvements and economic development projects in communities across Oregon and the nation while encouraging local investment.

Now the bill has cleared the Senate, it will next head to the U.S. House of Representatives. The final legislation to emerge from the process must then be passed by both chambers before it is signed into law.

Senators Merkley and Wyden urge the House to take up the legislation without delay to keep vital government systems and programs running and invest in targeted projects needed in communities across Oregon.

###

Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-eshoo-lesko-reintroduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-prevent-domestic-abusers-from-targeting-survivors-with-technology,"Wyden, Eshoo, Lesko Reintroduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Prevent Domestic Abusers from Targeting Survivors with Technology",2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore, and U.S. Representatives Anna G. Eshoo, D-Calif., and Debbie Lesko, R-Arizona, today reintroduced their bipartisan, bicameral legislation to help prevent domestic abusers from using technology to stalk, harass or control survivors.

“Domestic abuse survivors are already recovering from tough situations – they shouldn’t also have to worry about their abusers hacking their social media or tracking their location. Unfortunately, these frightening scenarios have become increasingly common, and yet, not enough is being done to support and protect survivors from this misuse of technology,” Wyden said. “Increased education, resources and services are essential to making sure survivors get the protection and care they need.”

“Technology has allowed domestic violence abusers to threaten, stalk, and harass with little effort and free tools.,” said Eshoo. “That makes the recovery process for survivors even more difficult and longer. It also makes it harder for advocates to support survivors since most of them are not tech professionals. Advocates report that domestic violence victims have low levels of confidence in being able to recognize and address technology-enabled abuse. Our legislation will provide resources to survivors and advocates to prevent and address this heinous psychological abuse.”

""I am a survivor of domestic violence, so I know firsthand the devastating impact it has on survivors and the difficulties they face as a result. As more capabilities and opportunities continue to be exploited for technology-enabled abuse of this tragically vulnerable population, our resolve must be even greater to ensure that these survivors receive the care and attention they deserve,” said Lesko. “I am grateful to again join this bipartisan coalition of legislators to show Congress’ unwavering devotion to every one of America’s brave survivors.”

Despite the seriousness and rise of technology-enabled abuse — especially during the COVID-19 pandemic — programs providing support to victims of intimate partner violence report low levels of confidence that survivors recognize or know how to prevent technology-enabled abuse. From the most basic social media platforms and phone-based apps to specialty spyware apps, technology-enabled abuse takes many forms and engaging in this type of abuse does not require huge financial resources or complex technological savvy.

The Tech Safety for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking Act would help close this gap in support by providing new grant funding to clinics and other partnerships focused on addressing domestic violence and technology-enabled abuse, as well as supporting new training and education to equip more organizations with the specialized services needed to help more survivors.

The legislation would take two significant actions to combat technology-enabled domestic abuse:

It would authorize a pilot project run by Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women to establish more tech-enabled abuse clinics. The grant program would provide $2 million grants for up to 15 clinics and other partnerships providing support to sexual and domestic violence victims who are experiencing technology-enabled abuse.

It would establish an additional grant program, also under the Office on Violence Against Women, for nonprofit organizations and institutions of higher education to develop and implement training and educational programs and technical assistance for organizations and individuals who provide support for victims of tech-enabled abuse.

Statements of Support

Ruth Glenn, CEO of Public Affairs, The National Domestic Violence Hotline: ""As technology becomes an even greater part of our lives, the ability of an abusive partner to leverage this technology to abuse, control, harass, and stalk a survivor continues to grow increasing the harm to survivors of domestic violence. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is proud to endorse the Tech Safety for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking Act introduced by Senator Wyden. This bill ensures that the systems who support survivors experiencing technology-related abuses have the necessary resources available to best serve those needing services.""

Thomas E. Kadri, Director of Policy and Legal Advocacy, Clinic to End Tech Abuse: ""People experiencing tech-enabled abuse often don’t know where to turn. Our clinic has helped hundreds of New Yorkers over the last few years, but survivors around the country urgently need assistance. This Act could expand access to similar support services and develop knowledge about evolving forms of tech-enabled abuse.""

Martina Shabram, PhD, Executive Director, Sexual Assault Support Services of Lane County, Oregon: ""The availability of new and emerging technological tools far outpaces the resources, services, and laws needed to combat perpetrators who use those technologies to facilitate their abuse of others. The Tech Safety for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking Act helps service providers catch up and build out the resources that survivors of technology-facilitated abuse deserve. Advocates are experts in providing trauma-informed, survivor-centered care, but we're not tech professionals! This act lets us bring together the multidisciplinary teams that we need to combat technology-facilitated abuse; advocates, tech experts, and survivors will be able to work together to create a safer world. On behalf of all of us at Sexual Assault Support Services, we thank Senator Wyden for the support he has provided for survivors of sexual violence throughout his career.""

The bill is endorsed by National Domestic Violence Hotline, National Network to End Domestic Violence, Legal Momentum, Clinic to End Tech Abuse, EndTAB, New Beginnings, Natalie Dolci of the Technology-Enabled Coercive Control Initiative (endorsed in her personal capacity), Oregon Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence, Sexual Assault Support Services of Oregon, Center for Hope and Safety of Oregon, and the Oregon Attorney General’s Sexual Assault Task Force.

The text of the bill is here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-whitehouse-launch-investigation-into-climate-change-fueled-insurance-crisis,"Wyden, Whitehouse Launch Investigation into Climate Change-Fueled Insurance Crisis",2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) said today that he and U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) have launched an investigation into how insurance companies are navigating mounting risks from climate change, including where companies will next pull coverage or raise premiums.

The inquiry from Wyden, a member of the Senate Budget Committee; and Whitehouse, Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, builds on a related investigation the committee launched in June into the U.S. insurance industry’s decisions to continue investing in and underwriting fossil fuel expansion projects that drive climate change.

In light of the economy-wide harms from widespread uninsurability, the senators sent letters to the 20 largest private sector insurance companies in California, Louisiana, Florida, and Texas—a total of 40 companies—to request documents and information related to the companies’ plans to address increased underwriting losses from climate disasters.

“The Committee is increasingly concerned about the potential economic consequences of an eventual widescale decline in property values caused by increasing exposure to climate risks and the attendant increase in insurance premiums and decrease in insurance availability,” the senators wrote. “Should such a situation come to pass, the effects on households—and federal revenues and spending—would be quite damaging and long-lasting, as we saw during and after the 2008 financial crisis.”

Among other requests, the senators are seeking information related to the following:

Current consideration of risks from climate-related extreme weather events, sea level rise, and/or wildfires when determining property and casualty insurance premiums for homes, rental units, automobiles, commercial properties, and/or crops;

Premium rate forecasts over the next five years;

Climate-related threats to company solvency; and

A list of all counties (or county equivalents) in the United States in which the subject company has not renewed a minimum threshold of homeowners’ policies in years 2018 through 2023.

The committee has held a series of hearings on the economic toll of climate change. Insurance industry executives, economists, actuaries, and other experts have testified that climate change could trigger cascading failures that undermine financial and economic stability. Their testimony has made clear that:

Climate-related losses have already grown substantially and are projected to continue to rise;

As climate-related risks increase, insurance premiums will increase and/or insurers will pull out of at-risk markets;

As insurance becomes increasingly expensive and/or unavailable, property values in affected markets will decline;

Insurance unavailability will cause affected properties to become unmortgageable; and

A widescale decline in coastal and wildland-urban interface (WUI) community property values would present a systemic risk to the U.S. economy, similar to what occurred in the 2007-2008 mortgage meltdown.

Letters were sent to American International Group, Allied Trust, American Integrity, Allstate, American Family, AmTrust, Auto Club Enterprises, AXA, Berkshire Hathaway, Chubb, CNA, CSAA, Fairfax, Farmers, Florida Peninsula, First Protective, Gulf States, Hartford, Heritage, Homeowners of America, Homeowners Choice, Kemper, Louisiana Farm Bureau, Liberty Mutual, Mercury General, Nationwide, Olympus, People’s Trust, Progressive, Security First, Shelter Mutual, Slide, State Farm, SURE, Tokio Marine, Tower Hill, Travelers, Universal Insurance Holdings, USAA, and Zurich. The companies have until November 17, 2023, to respond to the committee’s request.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-collins-durbin-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-help,"Bonamici, Collins, Durbin Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Help Runaway and Homeless Youth",2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Don Bacon (R-NE), Zach Nunn (R-IA), Morgan McGarvey (D-KY), and U.S. Senator Susan Collins and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, introduced the Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act of 2023. This bipartisan legislation will reauthorize key federal grant programs to provide states with funding to help thousands of homeless young people nationwide.

“Young people thrive when they have a safe and stable home,” said Rep. Bonamici, Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Homelessness. “We must help and protect youth experiencing homelessness and survivors of trafficking in their time of need. This bipartisan update to the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act will expand and improve the services many youth need when they do not have a place to call home, and it strengthens programs that can empower them to transition out of homelessness.”

“Having a caring and safe place to sleep, eat, grow, and study is crucial for any young person’s development,” said Senator Collins. “Our bipartisan legislation would support young people who run away, are forced out of their homes, or are disconnected from their families, by extending basic social services to these most vulnerable youth in our communities.”

“This legislation is an investment in the future of our nation and a promise not to give up on any child,” said Senator Durbin. “It will help us empower our youth—especially those in underserved communities—to realize their dreams for a better and brighter future, regardless of the traumatic experiences they may have faced.”

“As the number of homeless and runaway youth increases, we must increase our federal efforts to assist and protect these youth who are particularly susceptible to trafficking,” said Rep. Bacon. “This bill provides agencies with the means to support youth who are in vulnerable positions and gives them the resources to address these problems.”

“Every young person deserves a safe and secure environment to grow up in,” said Rep. Nunn. “This bipartisan legislation ensures young people in vulnerable situations can receive the help they need to sleep, eat, study, and develop.”

“No child should ever be forced to live on the streets in fear of their wellbeing and safety,” said Rep. McGarvey. “This bipartisan legislation is going provide critical resources to young people experiencing homelessness, especially LGBTQ+ and trans youth who are at a higher risk of being forced out of their homes. I’m proud to continue former Congressman Yarmuth’s fight to help young people in Louisville and across our country; it takes a village to care for our children, and I’m committed to safeguarding our most vulnerable youth.”

“We applaud our congressional champions for introducing the important Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act, because our young people continue to face limited access to housing options, education, and living wage employment. This legislation makes critical expansions to meet the needs of today’s youth, and continues the powerful legacy of the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act program. Further, it builds on what we already know: ending youth homelessness prevents human trafficking,” said Darla Bardine, Executive Director, National Network for Youth.

The landmark Runaway and Homeless Youth Act was first passed by Congress in 1974, providing nationwide support to address youth and young adult homelessness. This reauthorization would expand protections to youths who are particularly vulnerable to human trafficking and would authorize funding for state and local programs to help provide transitional housing, street outreach, and crisis intervention programs to address the needs of homeless and runaway youth.

Among other improvements, this legislation would:

Reauthorize, modernize, and increase authorization levels for programs under the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act;

Create a new Prevention Services Program that would make additional resources available to organizations providing counseling, mediation, and other services aimed at preventing youth from running away or becoming homeless;

Increase annual competitive grants for rural youth demographics from $100,000 to $200,000;

Require the Department of Health and Human Services to develop a national estimate of the prevalence of homeless youth every three years; and

Increase the allowable length of stay in the Basic Center Program from 21 days to 30 days.

The legislation is supported by youth advocacy organizations including the National Network for Youth, which has supported the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act since it was first enacted in 1974.

A complete list of organizations endorsing this bill can be read HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-torres-introduce-legislation-keep-pedestrians-vulnerable-road-users,"Bonamici, Torres Introduce Legislation to Keep Pedestrians & Vulnerable Road Users Safe",2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Representatives Norma J. Torres (CA-35) and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) announced today the introduction of the Pedestrian Hazard, Awareness and Safety Expansion (PHASE) Act to address rising pedestrian accidents and fatalities.

“Our country has experienced a significant increase in pedestrian fatalities, making us an outlier among peer nations. This is a personal issue for me—earlier this year my husband and I were struck by a car as we walked across the street in a marked crosswalk with the light. We recovered, but too many people are not as fortunate. I’m grateful to join my colleague Congresswoman Norma Torres in introducing the PHASE Act, which will direct needed federal resources to research and implement road safety strategies to prevent deaths and make streets safer for drivers and pedestrians,” said Congresswoman Bonamici.

“Whether Americans are choosing to walk, bike, or even take a scooter to their next stop, they deserve the peace of mind and public policy forethought from Congress that we take their safety seriously. With rising pedestrian accidents and fatalities in California and across the nation, our current transportation infrastructure is clearly inadequate at keeping bike and pedestrian road users safe.. My PHASE Act is an important step toward developing stronger pedestrian safety policies and making our roads safer for all vulnerable road users,” said Congresswoman Torres.

A report released this year found the number of pedestrians who were struck and killed by vehicles in 2022 was the highest it has been since 1981. To reverse this dangerous trend, the

PHASE Act:

Directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology to devise solutions to better equip drivers and protect pedestrians, while ensuring its recommendations do not distract drivers.

Directs the Department of Transportation to conduct a study on developing physical alternatives to better protect pedestrians.

Creates a grant program for cities and municipalities to implement pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.

The PHASE Act is cosponsored by Rep. Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and is supported by the League of Conservation Voters, Safe States, League of American Bicyclists, California Bicycle Coalition, and Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety.

“Vulnerable road user safety, which encompasses all road users outside the vehicle, is critically important and urgently in need of improvement. Pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities are at the highest levels in decades. Proven solutions must be advanced including roadway safety infrastructure upgrades and vehicle safety technologies that prevent or mitigate crashes. We commend Congresswoman Torres for her focus on enhancing safe roadway travel for all with the introduction of the PHASE Act,” said Cathy Chase, President, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/merkley-wyden-bonamici-hoyle-announce-over-36-million-improve-coastal-ports,"Merkley, Wyden, Bonamici, Hoyle Announce Over $36 Million to Improve Coastal Ports in Oregon",2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) and Val Hoyle (OR-04), announced a total of $36,489,508 in federal investments heading to the ports of Astoria, Coquille Indian Tribe’s Ko’Kwel Wharf, and Newport.

“Pier 2 West in Astoria is crucial to the region’s economy, but the structure has been deteriorating over the years,” said Rep. Bonamici. “I’m thrilled that the Port of Astoria will receive close to $25.3 million from USDOT to make overdue repairs to this essential infrastructure.”

“Ports play a crucial role in keeping the economies of Oregon and the entire Pacific Northwest running smoothly—transporting goods, people, and services throughout our region—and we rely on them to export our amazing, homegrown products around the world,” Merkley said. “This funding will provide crucial support to Astoria, the Coquille Indian Tribe, and Newport to improve existing infrastructure, increase storage capabilities, and bolster security while improving operational capacity for these critical ports.”

“Oregon’s ports produce jobs and act as economic linchpins for their communities as well as the entire state economy,” Wyden said. “I’m glad these three ports have secured these significant federal infrastructure investments to ensure they can keep exporting our state’s world-renowned products as well as generating economic opportunities for Newport, Astoria, the Coquille Indian Tribe and beyond.”

“I'm thrilled that the Port of Newport will be receiving this important grant to upgrade its port infrastructure,"" said Rep. Hoyle. “This is exactly the type of support that the federal government should be providing to Oregon's ports, which are essential for local jobs and businesses on the Oregon coast. I will continue to strongly support investment in Oregon’s coastal communities.”

This past spring, Senators Merkley and Wyden and Rep. Bonamici sent a letter to U.S. Maritime Administration urging their support for the Port of Astoria’s rehabilitation project application as well as a letter of support from Merkley and Wyden for the Newport operational capacity project application. Today’s federal investments come from the Fiscal Year 2023 Port Infrastructure Development Program.

“The Port of Astoria is extremely grateful to be a recipient of Port Infrastructure Development Program funding through MARAD for the rehabilitation of Pier 2 on the Astoria waterfront,” said Will Isom, Port of Astoria, Executive Director. “The seafood processing cluster on Pier 2 is vital to the Port, the City of Astoria and the entire region. Federal investment into this infrastructure was critical for its future and will help provide a safe, economically viable pier for generations to come!”

“The Coquille Indian Tribe is proud to take part in the nationwide effort to rebuild our port infrastructure. With this funding, our Tribal One team will continue their work to rebuild Ko’Kwel Wharf as a productive and reliable economic resource that will help secure the future of the Coquille Tribe and our North Bend community and become a valuable member of the nation’s maritime industry,” said Brenda Meade, Chairman, Coquille Indian Tribe.

""The Port of Newport greatly appreciates the support of our Federal Legislators and the Maritime Administration for this investment in our International Terminal. We are also grateful for our State Legislators, stakeholders and community for years of investment in our terminal. This will allow us to expand our operational capacity through the purchase of equipment and the improvement of a nine-acre parcel for lay-down purposes. These enhancements make the Port more attractive to prospective customers and support economic opportunity in Lincoln County,"" said Paula Miranda, Port of Newport, Executive Director.

Oregon projects funding and descriptions can be found below:

$25,315,758 to Port of Astoria: This project funds the rehabilitation of the Port of Astoria’s Pier 2 West – the region’s hub for seafood processing and maritime commerce – which is in critical need of repairs and rehabilitation. Project elements include: (1) a new steel bulkhead wall with a 75 year lifespan and that will include a new fendering system, 50 ton double bitt bollards, and a cast-in-place concrete bullrail; (2) removal of the old timber dock; (3) backfill; (4) underpinning of the Pier 2 warehouse; (5) warehouse building concrete slab repairs; (6) new concrete pavement on the pier surface; (7) construction of a stormwater drainage system; and (8) replacement of a water line and fire hydrants adjacent to the warehouse for fire protection of Pier 2.

$7,729,650 to Coquille Indian Tribe: This project funds the following three components: (1) repairs of the dock face along Lot 2 of Ko’Kwel Wharf that will bring the entire dock area up to safe operating standards and open opportunities for new uses of the terminal and wharf facility; (2) bring 800-amp service and a shore power outlet box to the wharf to reduce or eliminate the need for idling diesel engines; and (3) support development phase activities leading to the construction of a 600’-700’ extension of the Ko’Kwel Wharf dock.

$3,444,100 to Port of Newport: This project and funding will support the Port of Newport in the grading of 9 acres of land adjacent to the port’s existing Newport International Terminal to create additional laydown and storage space; fence three acres of land for increased security; and purchase two loaders to load, unload and move cargo within and around the port, especially breakbulk cargo, which the port's current cargo handling equipment is not well suited to safely and efficiently handle. These improvements to the Newport International Terminal enable the Port of Newport to continue to support the economic development and prosperity of the Oregon Coast.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/farms-food-and-fiber-merkley-wyden-announce-senate-passage-of-major-investments-for-oregon-agriculture-and-rural-communities,"Farms, Food, and Fiber: Merkley, Wyden Announce Senate Passage of Major Investments for Oregon Agriculture and Rural Communities",2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Funding included in the fiscal year 2024 Senate agriculture funding bill champions family farms, rural housing, broadband, and more

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced major investments in Oregon agriculture, rural housing, food assistance, and rural business priorities has passed the Senate, including more than $5 million in funding for Oregon community-initiated projects.

The investments were included in the FY24 Senate Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies bill, which cleared the full chamber with strong bipartisan support.

The federal funding in this legislation will support programs and projects that benefit farms, families, and rural communities throughout the state.

“Agriculture is a huge part of Oregon’s economy, and it’s essential to ensure our world-class agriculture sector and rural communities have the support needed to grow and thrive,” said Merkley, who previously served as the top Democrat on the Appropriations subcommittee that writes the agriculture bill. “This agriculture bill includes significant investments for family farms, rural housing, food assistance, habitat restoration, and wildfire smoke recovery. The legislation also prioritizes making Oregon’s agriculture more resilient to the impacts of climate chaos to protect the livelihoods of our farmers, ranchers, and producers. These huge investments will benefit Oregon’s farms and families for years to come, and I will keep championing them in Congress until they become law.”

“One of the things Oregon does best is grow things, and investing in farmers and rural life is essential to keep cultivating our state’s world-renowned agriculture,” Wyden said. “As I’ve met throughout this year with Oregonians who grow our state’s bounty, I’ve heard consistently about the need for federal investments that combat drought and wildfire smoke hurting their livelihoods, expand rural broadband, support housing in small communities and more. I’m glad this legislation helps achieve those goals and I’ll continue pressing the case until this gets over the finish line.”

Merkley is the only Oregon member of Congress from either chamber since Senator Mark Hatfield to serve on the Appropriations Committee, which wrote the bill and is one of the most powerful on Capitol Hill. He joined the committee in 2013 so that Oregon would have a strong voice in decisions about the investments our nation should be making.

Senators Merkley and Wyden secured investments for five Oregon community-initiated projects in the Senate’s agriculture funding bill, which are as follows:

$3 million for the Arnold Irrigation District in Deschutes County to help complete the third phase and begin the final phase of its resiliency and modernization project. As persistent drought continues to impact the Deschutes Basin, these irrigation modernization efforts will better serve farmers and ranchers and strengthen habitat for wildlife, making the region more resilient to climate chaos.

$2 million for the North Unit Irrigation District in Jefferson County to begin its irrigation modernization project, which will transition open ditch irrigation canals to buried pressurized piping. This infrastructure modernization project will lead to significant water savings that benefit farmers, ranchers, and wildlife.

$250,000 for the Condon Arts Council to restore the historic Liberty Theatre in downtown Condon. The rehabilitated theatre will serve as a regional hub for performing arts events and community arts programs for Oregonians living in Gilliam County and beyond.

$113,000 for the Grant County CyberMill Expansion project in John Day to support more equitable internet access for rural Oregonians. The federal funding will be used for distance learning, telemedicine, and broadband equipment and technology.

$76,000 for the South Lane Mental Health Center to help modernize their existing facilities, including a new roof, a new computer server, and security upgrades. These upgrades will benefit patients and staff by providing a safer, cleaner environment.

Click HERE for quotes from community-initiated project recipients included in the Senate agriculture bill.

Other key funding for Oregon’s world-class agriculture that passed out of the Senate with broad bipartisan support includes:

Water Conservation and Habitat Restoration: The bill includes $90.4 million for the Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations, including $20 million set aside for multi-benefit projects, which benefit Western states. In Oregon, this funding is primarily used to replace open irrigation ditches with pipes and is crucial for irrigation districts that need to improve water efficiency and conservation or otherwise improve fish and wildlife habitat. This program is providing critical funding for the collaborative processes underway across the state working to conserve water and keep Oregon’s family farms in business while improving the habitats of endangered species.

Wine Grape Smoke Exposure Research: Recent wildfire seasons have blanketed much of Oregon with thick, hazardous smoke, which has significantly impacted the state’s wine grape harvest. To better understand and address the challenges facing Oregon’s wine growers, the bill includes level funding at $4.5 million for research into smoke-impacted grapes at Oregon State University (OSU) and other West Coast universities.

Vineyard and Orchard Acreage Study: The bill encourages the Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) to resume data collection and reporting on vineyards and orchards, so that Oregon’s grape, wine, and juice producers can use this important data to remain competitive.

Hemp Production Systems: The bill provides $4 million for Agricultural Research Services to partner with institutions conducting biotech and genomics research to improve hemp genetic research and breeding with new techniques. Hemp has quickly become one of Oregon’s leading cash crops, and indicators suggest it has the potential to bring in more than $1 billion in sales to Oregon in the coming years given a fair and consistent regulatory framework.

Rangeland Precision Livestock Management: The bill includes $4 million to promote economically efficient and environmentally responsive livestock production systems for the Western rangeland. The bill supports precision nutrition strategies for rangeland-based livestock as well as technology-based rangeland and livestock management strategies to optimize the health and productivity of Western rangeland ecosystem.

Oregon Agricultural Research and Facilities Investment: The Agricultural Research Service is receiving $88 million in funding for cutting-edge research to improve the productivity, sustainability, and health of the nation’s agricultural systems. In addition, funding was secured for key Oregon agriculture research programs, including funding for research on the Sudden Oak Death pathogen plaguing Oregon’s South Coast. Other research funding victories include research for alfalfa, barley, tree fruits, pear, wheat, hops, hemp, apple, shellfish, small fruits, seaweed, floriculture, nurseries, and rangeland ecology.

Rural Housing: The bill includes $1.6 billion for rental assistance and $48 million for Rural Housing Service Vouchers, which will help address the urgent affordable housing crisis facing Oregon’s rural communities.

Rural Energy Saving Program: Senator Merkley successfully protected the RESP program from drastic cuts and secured $10.7 million in appropriations for Fiscal Year 2023. The program—which provides funding to rural utilities and other companies to increase energy efficiency—was created by Senator Merkley, who prioritized getting the funding needed to kickstart the program when he was the top Democrat on the Agriculture subcommittee. The funding from this bill would be leveraged for an additional $60 million in investment.

Rural Business: The bill includes funding for a number of USDA’s Rural Development programs, including $77.7 million for business development programs. These business development programs help businesses grow as well as provide job training for rural America.

Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): The bill provides $6.3 billion for WIC which provides free food packages designed to safeguard the health of pregnant, breast-feeding, and postpartum women and infants who are at nutrition risk because of inadequate nutrition.

Now the bill has cleared the Senate, it will next head to the U.S. House of Representatives. The final legislation to emerge from the process must then be passed by both chambers before it is signed into law.

Senators Merkley and Wyden urge the House to take up the legislation without delay to keep vital government systems and programs running and invest in targeted projects needed in communities across Oregon.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-bonamici-hoyle-announce-over-36-million-to-improve-coastal-ports-in-oregon,"Merkley, Wyden, Bonamici, Hoyle Announce Over $36 Million to Improve Coastal Ports in Oregon",2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) and Val Hoyle (OR-04), announced a total of $36,489,508 in federal investments heading to the ports of Astoria, Coquille Indian Tribe’s Ko’Kwel Wharf, and Newport.

“Ports play a crucial role in keeping the economies of Oregon and the entire Pacific Northwest running smoothly—transporting goods, people, and services throughout our region—and we rely on them to export our amazing, homegrown products around the world,” Merkley said. “This funding will provide crucial support to Astoria, the Coquille Indian Tribe, and Newport to improve existing infrastructure, increase storage capabilities, and bolster security while improving operational capacity for these critical ports.”

“Oregon’s ports produce jobs and act as economic linchpins for their communities as well as the entire state economy,” Wyden said. “I’m glad these three ports have secured these significant federal infrastructure investments to ensure they can keep exporting our state’s world-renowned products as well as generating economic opportunities for Newport, Astoria, the Coquille Indian Tribe and beyond.”

“Pier 2 West in Astoria is crucial to the region’s economy, but the structure has been deteriorating over the years,” said Rep. Bonamici. “I’m thrilled that the Port of Astoria will receive close to $25.3 million from USDOT to make overdue repairs to this essential infrastructure.”

“I'm thrilled that the Port of Newport will be receiving this important grant to upgrade its port infrastructure,"" said Rep. Hoyle. “This is exactly the type of support that the federal government should be providing to Oregon's ports, which are essential for local jobs and businesses on the Oregon coast. I will continue to strongly support investment in Oregon’s coastal communities.”

This past spring, Senators Merkley and Wyden and Rep. Bonamici sent a letter to U.S. Maritime Administration urging their support for the Port of Astoria’s rehabilitation project application as well as a letter of support from Merkley and Wyden for the Newport operational capacity project application. Today’s federal investments come from the Fiscal Year 2023 Port Infrastructure Development Program.

“The Port of Astoria is extremely grateful to be a recipient of Port Infrastructure Development Program funding through MARAD for the rehabilitation of Pier 2 on the Astoria waterfront,” said Will Isom, Port of Astoria, Executive Director. “The seafood processing cluster on Pier 2 is vital to the Port, the City of Astoria and the entire region. Federal investment into this infrastructure was critical for its future and will help provide a safe, economically viable pier for generations to come!”

“The Coquille Indian Tribe is proud to take part in the nationwide effort to rebuild our port infrastructure. With this funding, our Tribal One team will continue their work to rebuild Ko’Kwel Wharf as a productive and reliable economic resource that will help secure the future of the Coquille Tribe and our North Bend community and become a valuable member of the nation’s maritime industry,” said Brenda Meade, Chairman, Coquille Indian Tribe.

""The Port of Newport greatly appreciates the support of our Federal Legislators and the Maritime Administration for this investment in our International Terminal. We are also grateful for our State Legislators, stakeholders and community for years of investment in our terminal. This will allow us to expand our operational capacity through the purchase of equipment and the improvement of a nine-acre parcel for lay-down purposes. These enhancements make the Port more attractive to prospective customers and support economic opportunity in Lincoln County,"" said Paula Miranda, Port of Newport, Executive Director.

Oregon projects funding and descriptions can be found below:

$25,315,758 to Port of Astoria: This project funds the rehabilitation of the Port of Astoria’s Pier 2 West – the region’s hub for seafood processing and maritime commerce – which is in critical need of repairs and rehabilitation. Project elements include: (1) a new steel bulkhead wall with a 75 year lifespan and that will include a new fendering system, 50 ton double bitt bollards, and a cast-in-place concrete bullrail; (2) removal of the old timber dock; (3) backfill; (4) underpinning of the Pier 2 warehouse; (5) warehouse building concrete slab repairs; (6) new concrete pavement on the pier surface; (7) construction of a stormwater drainage system; and (8) replacement of a water line and fire hydrants adjacent to the warehouse for fire protection of Pier 2.

$7,729,650 to Coquille Indian Tribe: This project funds the following three components: (1) repairs of the dock face along Lot 2 of Ko’Kwel Wharf that will bring the entire dock area up to safe operating standards and open opportunities for new uses of the terminal and wharf facility; (2) bring 800-amp service and a shore power outlet box to the wharf to reduce or eliminate the need for idling diesel engines; and (3) support development phase activities leading to the construction of a 600’-700’ extension of the Ko’Kwel Wharf dock.

$3,444,100 to Port of Newport: This project and funding will support the Port of Newport in the grading of 9 acres of land adjacent to the port’s existing Newport International Terminal to create additional laydown and storage space; fence three acres of land for increased security; and purchase two loaders to load, unload and move cargo within and around the port, especially breakbulk cargo, which the port's current cargo handling equipment is not well suited to safely and efficiently handle. These improvements to the Newport International Terminal enable the Port of Newport to continue to support the economic development and prosperity of the Oregon Coast.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-urge-good-faith-negotiations-between-the-portland-association-of-teachers-and-portland-public-schools,"Merkley, Wyden Urge Good Faith Negotiations Between the Portland Association of Teachers and Portland Public Schools",2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden issued the following statement, urging the Portland Association of Teachers and the Portland Public Schools Board of Education to continue bargaining in good faith amid the first-ever teachers’ strike in the district:

“Over the last three years, our educators have strived to maintain a quality, equitable education program for our children through the enormous difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic. They have been underpaid and overstressed, and we strongly affirm our support for Portland’s educators exercising their right to strike for an equitable collective bargaining agreement.

“At the same time, we urge leadership from both the Portland Association of Teachers and Portland Public Schools to continue working in good faith toward an agreement that addresses a number of key issues, including class size, salaries and benefits, safety in the classroom, stronger equity programs, and expanded services for early learning and special education.

“With deeply committed, skilled educators and a dedicated Board of Education and administration, we are confident both sides can reach a contract that ensures students are appropriately served, educators are fairly compensated, and community priorities are honored for years to come.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-praises-decision-to-expand-access-to-federal-broadband-program-for-rural-and-underserved-areas,Wyden Praises Decision to Expand Access to Federal Broadband Program for Rural and Underserved Areas,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Administration Announcement Comes After Repeated Pressure From Wyden to Increase Flexibility for Participation in the Federal BEAD program

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today praised an announcement by the National Telecommunications Information Administration (NTIA) to help small internet service providers (ISPs) invest in rural and underserved communities across Oregon, by making it easier for them to participate in the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program.

Oregon will receive a record $689 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s BEAD program to expand access to broadband internet to rural and underserved communities – the largest single broadband grant in Oregon’s history. NTIA, which is administering the BEAD program at the federal level, had previously required a large financial guarantee from broadband providers, called an irrevocable letter of credit, to participate in the BEAD program. Wyden warned the administration that its policy risked excluding many small, rural, and diverse ISPs across Oregon, as well as nonprofits and municipalities, all of whose participation in the program is vital to its success.

“Today’s announcement out of NTIA is great news for communities across Oregon, who will be better able to access critical federal funding to boost broadband access in rural and underserved areas of our state,” Wyden said. “Once again, Assistant Secretary Alan Davidson listened to Oregonians and took steps to address their needs, so my constituents can get a fair shake. I’ll be counting on this partnership to continue until every Oregonian has access to reliable, affordable, high-quality broadband.”

NTIA’s announcement will give internet service providers much more flexibility to qualify for the BEAD program, including by allowing Oregon’s credit unions to participate. It will also permit the use of performance bonds, as an alternative to the letter of credit. Additionally, it will also allow the Oregon Broadband Office to reduce obligations on certain ISPs provided they meet provided deployment milestones.

“We thank Senator Wyden and NTIA for their tireless efforts to ensure our smaller and medium sized ISPs are able to fully participate in the BEAD program to bring access to all Oregonians currently lacking high-speed, reliable broadband internet” said Oregon Broadband Office Director Nick Batz.

“Obtaining an irrevocable letter of credit posed challenges perhaps unique to our small, rural broadband providers operating throughout Oregon,” said Brant Wolf, executive vice president of the Oregon Telecommunications Association. “The relief granted by NTIA will go a long way toward ensuring BEAD program funding is used in the highest, best manner in rural and frontier areas of Oregon! Access to the internet using fiber will provide these rural areas and communities with the highest speed possible, ensuring their place and participation in the 21st century economy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-successfully-presses-the-international-trade-administration-to-prevent-the-promotion-of-surveillance-technology-to-foreign-governments,Wyden Successfully Presses the International Trade Administration to Prevent the Promotion of Surveillance Technology to Foreign Governments,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"In a letter to Wyden, the Commerce Department details new policies that would help ensure export promotion efforts do not violate human rights

Washington, D.C.— Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today released the following statement in response to a Commerce Department letter detailing new policies the International Trade Administration (ITA) has implemented to prevent the promotion of surveillance technology to foreign governments:

“I appreciate the Commerce Department's thoughtful response to my inquiry. For the first time the Department is making clear that the United States will not help companies find foreign markets for products or services that undermine democracy or enable repressive surveillance and discrimination. While I remain concerned about the U.S. government’s prior promotion of these technologies, I look forward to monitoring the implementation of these new policies and ensuring they are followed in practice.”

In May, Wyden sent a letter calling on the ITA to answer questions about its promotion of dangerous surveillance technology in foreign markets, and explain what steps it is taking to prevent such technology sales from harming human rights.

Wyden chairs the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over international trade policy. He first requested information from ITA about its activity promoting the sale of surveillance technology abroad in May 2022. The agency informed Wyden’s office last year it had promoted the sale of surveillance technology, but declined to share which products it promoted, or which foreign markets it targeted. In March 2023 ITA informed Wyden’s office that it had issued a new policy to restrict promotion of surveillance products, but refused to share that policy without a formal letter.

The ITA is a component of the Department of Commerce responsible for promoting the sale of American products and services in foreign countries.

Read the Commerce Department’s letter to Wyden here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:49:58Z
https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-converts-town-hall-meetings-telephone-town-hall-meeting,Bonamici Converts Town Hall Meetings to Telephone Town Hall Meeting,2023-10-31,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,OR,Suzanne Bonamici,B001278,bonamici.house.gov,bonamici,https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC [10/31/23] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) announced that she will hold a telephone town hall meeting on Monday, November 6 at 6 p.m. PT.

The U.S. House of Representatives has changed its schedule and representatives will now need to be in Washington, D.C. on dates that conflict with previously scheduled in-person town hall meetings. The meetings are cancelled for Portland on Nov. 6, St. Helens on Nov. 7, and Hillsboro on Nov. 9.

Because Rep. Bonamici will be in Washington, D.C. on those dates, she is offering an opportunity for constituents to participate in a town hall meeting by telephone.

Anyone interested in participating in the telephone town hall meeting can sign up to receive a call here. The telephone town hall meeting will also be livestreamed here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-hoyle-oregon-to-receive-nearly-27-million-to-improve-road-safety,"Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle: Oregon to Receive Nearly $2.7 Million to Improve Road Safety",2023-10-30,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Cities of Medford, Corvallis. Eugene, Bend and Stayton as well as Crook, Benton, Deschutes counties and Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs to benefit

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley along with U.S. Representative Val Hoyle today announced nearly $2.7 million in federal funds for cities, counties and Tribes in Oregon to help plan road improvements and transportation safety.

“This is exactly the type of investment I fought for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law because it will directly save Oregonians’ lives on our state’s busiest roadways ,” Wyden said. “I am committed to making our streets in Oregon and across the nation as safe as possible for this generation and the next.”

“Oregonians in every corner of the state deserve safe streets in their communities,” said Merkley. “These investments will transform Oregon’s roadways into safer places for bicyclists, pedestrians, and drivers. I will continue working to ensure every Oregonian is able to move about their daily lives conveniently, without fear of accident or injury.”

“These projects mark a significant step forward to help ensure safer roads and streets for every Oregonian. I’m proud that our communities, including Benton County and the Cities of Corvallis and Eugene, are taking proactive measures to enhance safety for all modes of transportation.” said Congresswoman Hoyle. “These initiatives not only safeguard our residents, they also promote equitable access and mobility for all.”

The $2.65 million in federal funds come from the federal Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All Planning Grant program through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will be distributed as follows in Oregon:

City of Medford - $400,000

Crook County - $96,000

The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs - $320,000

Deschutes County - $144,000

Benton County - $320,000

City of Corvallis - $664,000

City of Eugene - $384,000

Bend Metropolitan Planning Organization - $200,000

City of Stayton - $120,000

“This grant will allow the City to move forward with critical evaluation and planning efforts which will allow the City to strategically incorporate safety improvements in our transportation investments,” said Corvallis Mayor Charles Maughan.

“Improving walking and biking conditions to and from transit stops through this project will play a vital role in supporting sustainable transportation trips and mitigating future greenhouse gas emissions,” said Jenifer Willer, City of Eugene Engineering Division manager. “Eugene is grateful for this award and for the support of Oregon’s congressional representatives.""

""Benton County, Oregon's SS4A Planning Grant for a Safety Action Plan is a crucial step towards enhancing safety and accessibility for all transportation users in this vibrant region we call home. With a population of over 92,000, from the high volume of commuters to the growing number of cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, Benton County faces a unique blend of transportation needs. The Safety Action Plan seeks to address these challenges in a comprehensive and responsible way,” said Benton County Commissioner Pat Malone.

“Road safety is a priority for Crook County. This grant will help us develop a plan to ensure safe roads for years to come,” said Crook County Judge Seth Crawford.

""We are thrilled to receive federal SS4A funding to update our Transportation Safety Action Plan (TSAP),” said Tony DeBone, Deschutes County Commissioner. “The TSAP update will allow us to identify emerging safety issues in our system and utilize low cost improvements and non-infrastructure investment opportunities to improve the safety of our transportation system.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-murray-sanders-baldwin-lead-44-senators-in-urging-the-biden-administration-to-require-insurers-to-fully-cover-over-the-counter-birth-control-with-no-out-of-pocket-costs-or-prescription-barrier,"Wyden, Murray, Sanders, Baldwin Lead 44 Senators in Urging the Biden Administration to Require Insurers to Fully Cover Over-the-Counter Birth Control, With No Out-of-Pocket Costs or Prescription Barrier",2023-10-30,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"More than two-thirds of voters across parties support birth control pills being sold over-the-counter

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) led 44 of their Senate colleagues today in sending a letter urging the Biden Administration to require federally and state-regulated health insurance plans to fully cover over-the-counter contraceptives, including Opill—the first-ever FDA-approved over-the-counter birth control pill, which will become available in early 2024—with no copays or out of pocket costs, and without a prescription requirement.

“We urge you to improve health insurance coverage, both public and private, of the full range of FDA-approved, granted, or cleared contraceptive products—including birth control that is available over-the-counter (OTC) without requiring a prescription for coverage,” the senators wrote today in their letter to Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, Department of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and the Department of Labor Acting Secretary Julie Su. “Over 19 million women live in counties with limited access to health care providers that offer comprehensive contraceptive services, and about one-third of women who have received prescription contraceptives have reported barriers to access. Expanding access to affordable coverage for eligible, uninsured populations would improve the quality of contraceptive care that patients receive.”

“The availability of safe and effective OTC birth control products has enormous potential to help people overcome significant barriers to consistent contraceptive use, including the many logistical and financial challenges to obtaining a prescription. The FDA’s approval of Opill is a milestone; however, for an OTC birth control pill to meet its potential and be truly accessible, federal departments must ensure that it is covered without cost-sharing and without the need for a prescription as a condition of coverage,” the senators continued.

“To expand access to affordable contraception, we urge the tri-departments to issue new guidance that reflects current HRSA guidelines and clarifies that federally and state-regulated private health plans must cover OTC contraceptive products without cost-sharing, including when purchased without a prescription… Given the increased need for access to contraception in the wake of the Dobbs decision, this issue is incredibly timely and important,” the senators wrote.

Dana Singiser, co-founder of the Contraceptive Access Initiative said: “It makes no sense to cover contraception when obtained with a prescription, and not cover it without—the enormous health benefits are the same. People should be able to use their insurance coverage for birth control pills whether they get it by prescription from a medical provider or whether they simply purchase it off the shelf at a pharmacy. I applaud Senators Murray, Baldwin, Sanders, and Wyden and their Senate colleagues for raising their collective voices to help ensure that over-the-counter contraception is financially accessible.”

In addition to Senators Wyden, Murray, Sanders and Baldwin, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tom Carper (D-DE), Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Richard Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Jon Tester (D-MT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-colleagues-demand-answers-from-tax-prep-companies-after-ftc-warns-of-improper-sharing-of-confidential-data,"Wyden, Colleagues Demand Answers from Tax Prep Companies After FTC Warns of Improper Sharing of Confidential Data",2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today he and six congressional colleagues are demanding answers from five tax preparation companies that recently received notices of penalty offenses from the Federal Trade Commission.

The lawmakers sought those answers in letters sent to H&R Block, TaxAct, TaxSlayer, Ramsey Solutions, and Intuit regarding the improper sharing of taxpayer’s sensitive and confidential information with Meta (formerly Facebook Inc.).

“The FTC’s warning followed the release of our months-long investigation revealing that major tax preparation companies sent tens of millions of Americans’ sensitive personal data to Meta without providing appropriate disclosures or obtaining taxpayer consent—in apparent violation of taxpayer privacy laws,” the lawmakers wrote. “Accordingly, we write to confirm that, in accordance with the FTC’s notice of penalty offenses, your company is not engaged and will not be engaged in any further abuses of taxpayer privacy.”

In their letters, lawmakers reiterated their support for Direct File, an IRS initiative that would let Americans file their taxes online and directly with the federal government for free. They also asked a series of questions to determine whether the tax preparation companies have been and will be compliant with the FTC’s recent notice and to further ensure that taxpayer privacy will not be violated in this way again. They have demanded answers by Nov. 8, 2023.

In addition to Wyden, other lawmakers signing the letters were U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.); Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.); Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.); Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.); and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.); and U.S. Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-51-million-to-improve-air-quality-in-oregon,"Wyden, Merkley Announce $5.1 Million to Improve Air Quality in Oregon",2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,Senate,OR,Ron Wyden,W000779,www.wyden.senate.gov,wyden,https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Federal investment to help Klamath County and Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

Washington D.C. - U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that Klamath County Public Health and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation have secured a combined $5.1 million in federal funds for air quality.

“This federal investment packs a one-two punch because it improves overall air quality and helps Oregonians get efficient heat sources to replace their wood-burning units,” Wyden said. “That adds up to a huge win for quality of life in Klamath County as well as for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.”

“These critical investments will be used to help ensure folks in Klamath County and on the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla Indian Reservation have the support and innovation to better monitor and improve air quality,” said Senator Merkley. “Air pollution often goes unnoticed, but can contribute greatly to chronic health conditions. This funding will help improve health outcomes and quality of life for thousands of Oregonians.""

The $4.67 million from the Environmental Protection Agency will go to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality to partner with Klamath County Public Health, allowing the two agencies to change out around 300 woodstoves and weatherize 100 houses in Klamath County, with a focus on improving services to underserved populations who rely on wood for heat. As part of the $4.67 million, $323,630 in utility assistance will be granted to low-income applicants who change out their woodstoves through the program.

An additional $451,250 in EPA funding will go to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation for air quality monitoring.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:43:12Z