Thursday - March 28, 2024
U.S. Congressional Tipoffs Involving New Jersey Newsletter for Sunday March 15, 2020 ( 86 items )  

As Coronavirus Exposes Weaknesses in U.S. Supply Chain, Sen. Booker Introduces Bill to Help Manufacturers Scale-up Operations
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Sen. Cory Booker, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 12: * * * - Bill boosts access to capital for U.S. manufacturing businesses to spur domestic manufacturing, reduce supply chain vulnerabilities * * * As the Coronavirus pandemic shines a light on serious vulnerabilities in the U.S. supply chain, Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) reintroduced legislation to increase access to capital for U.S. entrepreneurs looking to scale-up and commercialize their ad  more

Bipartisan E&C Leaders Request FDA Briefing on Coronavirus' Impact on Drug, Medical Supplies
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following news release: Bipartisan Energy and Commerce Committee leaders wrote to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Stephen M. Hahn, M.D. asking a series of questions and requesting a briefing on the potential impact the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) could have on the supply of safe drugs and other medical products in the United States. The letter was sign  more

Coronavirus: Sen. Booker Introduces Bill to Get Unemployment Assistance Immediately to Laid-Off Workers
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Sen. Cory Booker, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 12: * * * - Bill would eliminate "waiting week" requirement * * * U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) today introduced a bill to reduce barriers to unemployment insurance for workers throughout the country who are unable to work due to the Coronavirus. The bill will address "waiting week" requirements, which forces laid-off workers who have satisfied every other eligibility requirement to wait one   more

Coronavirus: Sens. Booker, Menendez Introduce Bill to Eliminate Patient Cost-Sharing for Coronavirus Testing, Treatment
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Sen. Cory Booker, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 11: U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Bob Menendez (D-NJ) today introduced a bill aimed at helping Americans with the medical costs of any tests, care, or treatment related to the novel Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. The Care for COVID-19 Act would require health insurance plans to cover both diagnostic and treatment services related to the virus, with no cost-sharing to the patient. This  more

E&C Leaders Urge FTC Action on Deceptive Advertising and Dangerous Misinformation on Coronavirus Pandemic
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following news release: Three Energy and Commerce Committee leaders wrote to Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman Joseph Simons urging him to take immediate action to prevent deceptive advertising and dangerous misinformation related to the coronavirus global pandemic. The letter was signed by Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Oversight and Investigations Subcommi  more

Environment & Climate Change Subcommittee Announces Markup of CFATS, HFCs Legislation
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following news release: Energy and Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) and Environment and Climate Change Subcommittee Chairman Paul Tonko (D-NY) announced that the Environment and Climate Change Subcommittee will hold a markup on Thursday, March 12, at 9 a.m. in the John D. Dingell Room, 2123 of the Rayburn House Office Building. The Subcommittee will mark up H.  more

House Democrats Release Text of Bipartisan Families First Coronavirus Response Act
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following news release: * * * - Legislation guarantees free coronavirus testing, secures paid emergency leave, enhances Unemployment Insurance, strengthens food security initiatives, and increases federal Medicaid funding to states * * * In advance of House consideration, House Democrats have released the text of the bipartisan Families First Coronavirus Response Act.  more

House Energy & Commerce Committee Issues Report on State Health Care Premium Reduction Act
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- The House Energy and Commerce Committee issued a report (H.Rpt. 116-414) on the State Health Care Premium Reduction Act (H.R. 1425), which amends the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to provide for a Improve Health Insurance Affordability Fund to provide for certain reinsurance payments to lower premiums in the individual health insurance market. The report was advanced by Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, on March 9. Excerpts of the report follow (with cha  more

House Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Health to Mark Up 13 Bills
WASHINGTON, March 10 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following news release: Energy and Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) and Health Subcommittee Chairwoman Anna G. Eshoo (D-CA) announced today that the Health Subcommittee will hold a markup on Wednesday, March 11, at 10 am in the John D. Dingell Room, 2123 Rayburn House Office Building. "The Health Subcommittee is continuing its work to strengthen and improve   more

House Small Business Committee Issues Testimony From Boba Guys
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- The House Small Business Committee issued the following testimony on March 10 by Andrew Chau, founder of Boba Guys, at a hearing entitled "The Impact of Coronavirus on America's Small Businesses": I am here today on behalf of the small business community and the over 20 million Asian American Pacific Islanders who call this country home. I am a son of immigrants-- my dad, a refugee from Guangdong, China and my mother, the daughter of a Taiwanese Air Force pilot. I grew u  more

Menendez Calls on Commerce Department to Stop U.S. Companies From Buying Goods Made by Uyghur Forced Laborers
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Sen. Bob Menendez, D-New Jersey, ranking Democratic member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following news release on March 10: Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, sent a letter to Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross calling on his department to take steps to prevent American companies and consumers from buying goods produced by forced labor in Xinjiang, China. The Chinese government has implemented   more

Rep. Gottheimer Announces Bipartisan Nationwide Protections Against Price-Gouging During Coronavirus State of Emergency
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) announced he is an original cosponsor of bipartisan legislation to protect against price gouging during a state of emergency. This bipartisan bill makes it illegal to sell goods and services that are vital and necessary for the health, safety, and welfare of consumers at an unconscionably excessive price during a declared state of emergency. Earlier this week,  more

Rep. Gottheimer Helps Pass Vital Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Coronavirus Nationwide
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) voted to pass bipartisan legislation to address the coronavirus crisis, keep families safe, and stimulate the economy. The bipartisan Families First Coronavirus Response Act provides coronavirus testing free of charge to the patient, paid emergency leave with two weeks of paid sick leave, up to three months of paid family and medical leave, enhanced Unemployment  more

Rep. Gottheimer Hosts North Jersey Hospital Coronavirus Coordination Conference Call
TEANECK, New Jersey, March 11 -- Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 9: * * * - Part of Daily Call Hospitals Are Holding * * * On Monday, March 9, 2020, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) hosted a coordination conference call with North Jersey hospital officials to discuss coordination efforts to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus in New Jersey. Joining Gottheimer on today's call included officials from Bergen New Bridge Medical Center  more

Rep. Gottheimer Hosts North Jersey Senior and Nursing Home Coronavirus Coordination Conference Call
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) hosted a coordination conference call with North Jersey nursing home, assisted living, and hospital officials to discuss coordination efforts to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus for at-risk populations in New Jersey. Joining Gottheimer on today's call included Doctor Adam Jarrett from Holy Name Medical Center, Deborah Visconi of New Bridge Medical Cen  more

Rep. Gottheimer Issues Statement on Coronavirus Death in North Jersey
GLEN ROCK, New Jersey, March 11 -- Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-New Jersey, issued the following statement on the 1st death in New Jersey from a case of the coronavirus: "I was deeply saddened to learn that we lost a Bergen County resident from a case of COVID-19. "Marla and I are thinking about his family and loved ones during this very difficult time. "Our hospitals, health facilities, frontline medical professionals, communities, and state and federal government are all working to help make s  more

Rep. Gottheimer Issues Statement Regarding New Jersey State of Emergency on Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-New Jersey, issued the following statement on March 9 on New Jersey declaring a public health state of emergency due to the coronavirus: "Today, New Jersey declared a state of emergency, as there are currently 11 presumed positive cases of coronavirus in our state. "It is critical that New Jersey continue working with our hospitals, health facilities, frontline medical professionals, communities, and the federal government to treat patients affl  more

Rep. Gottheimer Statement on Coronavirus Death in North Jersey
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-New Jersey, issued the following statement on the first death in New Jersey from a case of the coronavirus: "I was deeply saddened to learn that we lost a Bergen County resident from a case of COVID-19. "Marla and I are thinking about his family and loved ones during this very difficult time. "Our hospitals, health facilities, frontline medical professionals, communities, and state and federal government are all working to help make sure this ou  more

Rep. Gottheimer: Members of New Jersey's House and Senate Delegations Call on CDC to Address Coronavirus Testing Delays
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 11: U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) led a group of Members of New Jersey's congressional delegation to call on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for information regarding when New Jersey should expect to receive confirmation of the 23 pending presumed positive coronavirus (COVID-19) cases on which the state continues to wait. The Members also requested information re  more

Rep. Kim Holds Coronavirus Update Call With Senior Community Leaders
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Andy Kim, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03) convened a call of senior community leaders across Burlington and Ocean Counties to provide an update on federal efforts to contain the Coronavirus outbreak and hear local concerns to help shape further Congressional actions. "I want to thank our frontline health care and senior leaders for taking time to provide an update on their efforts in New Jersey, and their thoughts on ho  more

Rep. Kim Issues Statement on Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 10 -- Rep. Andy Kim, D-New Jersey, issued the following statement on March 9 in response to New Jersey's declaration of a state of emergency due to the coronavirus outbreak: "Today's declaration further signifies the critical nature of the Coronavirus outbreak, and the importance of ensuring our frontline medical professionals have every tool available at their disposal. "I will continue to work with the Governor's team, my colleagues in Congress and local officials to ensure  more

Rep. Kim Issues Statement on Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Andy Kim, D-New Jersey, issued the following statement in response to reports of two presumed positive cases of coronavirus in New Jersey's 3rd Congressional District: "Our first priority should be limiting the spread of the Coronavirus outbreak in Burlington and Ocean Counties by supporting our frontline public health officials and our most at risk and vulnerable populations. "I will continue to work with, and listen to guidance from our health care leaders, and e  more

Rep. Kim Issues Statement Regarding Labor Department Rule on Apprenticeship Programs
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Andy Kim, D-New Jersey, issued the following statement on March 10 Labor Department rule that would weaken proven union apprenticeship programs: "Today's announcement by the Department of Labor is a step in the wrong direction for New Jersey's working families. "We've seen how apprenticeship programs run by our local labor organizations create a clear path to the middle class. This rule would work to close that path to countless working Americans by instituting a r  more

Rep. Kim Votes to Pass Bipartisan Joint Resolution to Give American People Voice Before Going to War
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Andy Kim, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03) voted to pass S.J.Res. 68, a Joint Resolution, passed by a bipartisan vote in the Senate, that would require the president get authorization by Congress to engage in further military action against the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Joint Resolution, passed by the House and Senate, will now go to the President for his signature. "The decision to go to war doesn't stop with Congre  more

Rep. Kim, Garamendi Introduce Support Our Military Working Dogs Act
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Andy Kim, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03) and Congressman John Garamendi (CA-03), chairman and vice-chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness, introduced the Support Our Military Working Dogs Act (H.R.6188) in commemoration of National K9 Veterans Day 2020 later this week. The United States K9 Corps was established on March 13, 1942. "Military working dogs have served alongside our men and women in   more

Rep. Kim: House Congressional Tri-Caucus Calls on CDC to Expand Coronavirus Materials for Non-English Speakers
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- Rep. Andy Kim, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: The House Congressional Tri-Caucus, in a letter led by Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03), called on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to offer accessible translations of its materials related to the COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak in all major languages spoken in the United States. The letter was also signed by Congresswoman Judy Chu, Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus; Con  more

Rep. Kim: Members of New Jersey's House and Senate Delegations Call on CDC to Address Coronavirus Testing Delays
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Andy Kim, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 11: On Wednesday, March 11, 2020, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) led a group of Members of New Jersey's congressional delegation to call on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for information regarding when New Jersey should expect to receive confirmation of the 23 pending presumed positive coronavirus (COVID-19) cases on which the state continues to wait. The Members also r  more

Rep. Malinowski Hosts Coronavirus Preparedness Call With Area Assisted Living Facilities
SOMERVILLE, New Jersey, March 11 -- Rep. Tomaz Malinowski, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Representative Malinowski held a call with assisted living facilities across New Jersey's 7th District to learn more about their ongoing preparations to confront the threat of COVID-19. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) older adults and those with underlying chronic medical conditions or are immunocompromised may be most at risk for severe outcomes from COVID-19. Partici  more

Rep. Malinowski Hosts Coronavirus Preparedness Call With Area Hospital Systems
SOMERVILLE, New Jersey, March 6 -- Rep. Tomaz Malinowski, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Representative Malinowski held a call with the major hospital systems and community health centers across New Jersey's 7th District to learn more about their ongoing preparations to confront the threat of COVID-19, and ensure that they have the resources and support they need to keep our residents safe. While the situation continues to evolve in real time it is important that our health c  more

Rep. Malinowski Issues Statement on New Jersey State of Emergency Declaration
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Tomaz Malinowski, D-New Jersey, issued the following statement on March 9: Governor Phil Murphy declared a State of Emergency in New Jersey in response to the COVID-19 epidemic. "Today's decision by Governor Murphy will allow our state to better contain the spread of COVID-19 and ensure that state and local agencies have the resources and authority they need to respond effectively," said Congressman Malinowski. "I'll keep doing all I can to ensure that federal gove  more

Rep. Malinowski Urges Insurance Companies to Clarify Rules for Prescription Drug Refills
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Tomaz Malinowski, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Representative Tom Malinowski led a group of 11 of his colleagues in sending a letter to Matt Eyles, President and CEO of America's Health Insurance Plans, and the eight major American insurance providers, to clarify that patients will continue to have access to life saving prescriptions as the coronavirus epidemic grows. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recommended that individuals mai  more

Rep. Norcross Presses for Answers Regarding Army Plan for Chinook Helicopter, Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Donald W. Norcross, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 11: On Tuesday, Chairman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) pressed witnesses at the House Armed Services Committee's Tactical Air and Land Forces (TAL) Subcommittee hearing on the military's plan for the Chinook Block II. Norcross questioned Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology Dr. Bruce D. Jette on advanced procurement of the Chinook Block II and foreign sales   more

Rep. Norcross Statement on Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Program Final Rule From Department of Labor
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Donald W. Norcross, D-New Jersey, issued the following statement regarding the Labor Department Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Program final rule: "The Department of Labor's final IRAP rule continues to advance an untested apprenticeship model, but recognizes the construction industry as the 'gold standard' of the Registered Apprenticeship Program. "As I described to Secretary Scalia in a meeting last week, the Registered Apprenticeship Programs in the construc  more

Rep. Pallone Applauds House Passage of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following statement: * * * - New Legislation Guarantees Free Coronavirus Testing for All Americans, Paid Sick Leave, Protections for Health Care Workers and Provides Important Benefits to Children and Families * * * Energy and Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement today after the House of Representatives voted in favor of passing  more

Rep. Pallone Issues Remarks at Markup of C-Band, Public Safety and Media Diversity Legislation
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following remarks on March 10 at a Communications and Technology Subcommittee markup of 11 bills, including C-band, public safety and media diversity legislation: Today, we are marking up legislation that will make Americans safer, media more reflective of our nation's diverse views, and hopefully increase access to broadband and 9-1-1 services for urban and rural areas.  more

Rep. Pallone Provides Update on Coronavirus
PISCATAWAY, New Jersey, March 10 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) held a press conference to update the public on the federal government's response to the novel coronavirus outbreak, officially known as COVID-19. He urged the public to employ everyday measures to help prevent the spread of the respiratory virus. "Americans need a coordinated government response to the coronavirus outbreak that matches the scale a  more

Rep. Pallone Remarks at Environment and Climate Change Subcommittee Markup of CFATS and HFCs Legislation
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following opening remarks on March 12 at an Environment and Climate Change Subcommittee markup of a bill (H.R. 6160) to extend the authorization for the Chemical Facility Antiterrorism Standards program and the American Innovation and Manufacturing Leadership Act (H.R. 5544): Today we are marking up legislation to promote American manufacturing and innovation, protect co  more

Rep. Pallone: Bipartisan E&C Bill to Protect Americans From Suspect Foreign Network Equipment Becomes Law
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following news release on March 12: Following President Trump signing their bipartisan Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act (H.R. 4998) into law to help secure America's telecommunications supply chain, Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Ranking Member Greg Walden (R-OR), and Reps. Doris Matsui (D-CA) and Brett Guthrie (R-KY) rele  more

Rep. Pallone: House Democrats Introduce Families First Coronavirus Response Act
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following news release on March 11: * * * - Legislation provides paid leave, establishes free testing, protects health workers, and provides important benefits to children and families * * * House Democrats introduced the Families First Coronavirus Response Act to bolster the federal government's response to the coronavirus outbreak and address the severe impacts of t  more

Rep. Pascrell Announces $1.5M to Keep Lead Out of School Drinking Water
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr., D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09) announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $1,537,000 in federal funding to assist New Jersey with identifying sources of lead in drinking water in schools or childcare facilities "From Flint to Newark, we have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects lead can have on our drinking water and on our communities. It is critical   more

Rep. Pascrell Applauds Crackdown on Fake Coronavirus Cures
WASHINGTON, March 10 -- Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr., D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09) praised the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) move to protect consumers from deceptive advertising amid the coronavirus epidemic. Last week, Pascrell called on the FTC to crackdown on con artists and fraudsters selling fake treatments for coronavirus. The agency announced it would do exactly that, issuing warnings to seven scam companies which falsely claim thei  more

Rep. Pascrell Secures $1.2M for Paterson Community Health Center Amid Coronavirus Crisis
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr., D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09) announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has awarded $1,124,270 to the Paterson Community Health Center to assist the center in providing primary health care to low-income Paterson residents. "Amid the current outbreak of COVID-19, this grant will allow Paterson Community Health to provide high-quality health care services to our neighbo  more

Rep. Payne Announces $1.5 Million Grant to Test Drinking Water in Newark's Schools
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Donald M. Payne Jr., D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. praised the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today for awarding $1.5 million in grant funding to New Jersey to test for lead in the drinking water of all city schools and childcare facilities. "The greatest threat with this water issue is the health of our children," said Congressman Payne, Jr. "We need to know if lead is getting into the drinking water of o  more

Rep. Payne Awarded First Congressional Trophy for Floor Speeches
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Rep. Donald M. Payne Jr., D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. received the first Congressional trophy ever awarded to a member of Congress for speeches in the U.S. House of Representatives. The House Democratic Policy & Communications Committee honored Rep. Payne, Jr. because of his leadership and commitment to speaking on the House floor. Congressman Payne, Jr. has given more speeches than any other Democratic Congressmembe  more

Rep. Payne Statement About President's Actions to Deal With Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- Rep. Donald M. Payne Jr., D-New Jersey, issued the following statement after President Trump invoked the Stafford Act and declared a national state of emergency to help contain the spread of the coronavirus: "I am glad the President has invoked the Stafford Act and declared a state of emergency. "The Stafford Act was one of the recommendations health experts stated in testimony before my subcommittee on emergency preparedness this week as a necessary step to fight this   more

Rep. Payne, Hearing Finds U.S. Not Ready for Mass Outbreak of Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Donald M. Payne Jr., D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. lead a subcommittee hearing that found the United States could handle the amount of coronavirus cases right now, but health experts said it was far from ready if the disease continues to spread. Rep. Payne, Jr. said the hearing confirmed what many health professionals around the country have been saying for months. "The administration's response to this public he  more

Rep. Sherrill Issues Statement on Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 10 -- Rep. Mikie Sherrill, D-New Jersey, issued the following statement on New Jersey's declaration of a state of emergency in response to coronavirus: "The announcement of New Jersey's state of emergency declaration reflects the serious public health risk that coronavirus presents to our communities. "It's critical that we listen to medical and public health officials for the most accurate and up-to-date information. My office remains in close contact with local officials an  more

Rep. Sherrill: Members of New Jersey's House and Senate Delegations Call on CDC to Address Coronavirus Testing Delays
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Mikie Sherrill, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) joined a group of Members from New Jersey's congressional delegation to call on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for information regarding when New Jersey should expect to receive confirmation of the 23 pending presumed positive coronavirus (COVID-19) cases on which the state continues to wait. The Members also requested information regarding CD  more

Rep. Sires' Bipartisan Nicaragua Resolution Passes the House of Representatives
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Albio Sires, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Chairman Albio Sires (D-NJ) and Ranking Member Francis Rooney (R-FL) of the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, Civilian Security, and Trade released the following statement after their bipartisan resolution, H.Res.754, supporting human rights and democracy in Nicaragua, passed the House of Representatives by voice vote: "In passing this resolution, the U.S. House of Representatives sent a strong, bi  more

Rep. Sires, Sens. Menendez, and Booker Announce Over $1M to Reduce Infant Mortality Rate in NJ
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Albio Sires, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Congressman Albio Sires (N.J.-08), along with U.S. Senators Bob Menendez, a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee that sets national health policy, and Cory Booker, announced the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will award $1,122,899 to Newark Community Health Centers, Inc. to boost its efforts in reducing the infant mortality rate, and improve the health of women, infants and ch  more

Rep. Smith Honored for Work on Hong Kong Human Rights & Democracy Act
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Chris Smith, R-New Jersey, issued the following news release: At a Capitol Hill policy conference hosted Tuesday by the Hong Kong Democracy Council (HKDC), Rep. Chris Smith, a senior human rights lawmaker in the US Congress, was recognized for his years of work to enact the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2019, which President Trump signed into law late last year. "We would like to honor and recognize Mr. Smith for his pioneering and prophetic role in t  more

Rep. Smith: Stopping Coronavirus Pandemic and Finding a Cure, Vaccine Must Be Our Highest Priority-No Matter Cost
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- Rep. Chris Smith, R-New Jersey, issued the following news release: As the House tonight passed its second comprehensive bipartisan bill to combat the coronavirus (COVID 19), Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) said that "containing the outbreak, finding a cure and a safe and effective vaccine must be our highest priority--no matter the cost." "We must contain the coronavirus pandemic and protect all people, especially those most vulnerable to the disease such as the elderly and tho  more

Rep. Van Drew Demands Democrat Leadership Get to Work on Coronavirus for the Sake of Our Nation
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Rep. Jefferson Van Drew, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Congressman Van Drew called upon Democrat leadership to get their act together, stop wasting time, and put legislation on the floor that will go to help Americans impacted by Coronavirus. "I am sitting at my desk in Washington waiting. Waiting for Nancy Pelosi to put a useful piece of legislation on the floor to help American workers and families impacted by the Coronavirus. This is our job; this  more

Rep. Van Drew Issues Statement on Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Jefferson Van Drew, D-New Jersey, issued the following statement: An outbreak of a respiratory disease caused by a Coronavirus (COVID-19) that originated in China has made its way to America. I want to give you a quick update on what we are doing and some precautionary actions you can help to stop the spread and protect yourselves and your families. Last week I voted in support of an $8.3 billion supplemental spending bill to address the Coronavirus issue. Include  more

Rep. Van Drew Sponsors Legislation for Veterans to Continue Receiving GI Bill Benefits During Coronavirus Crisis
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Rep. Jefferson Van Drew, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Congressman Van Drew announced he will be sponsoring H.R. 6194, a bill that will ensure veterans have access to their GI Bill benefits they earned, and will be using, during the current Coronavirus crisis. The Coronavirus is causing many universities around the country to transition to "distance learning," where students attend their classes through telecommunications. This threatens to disrupt st  more

Rep. Van Drew Will Fight to Stop Price Gouging Over Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Rep. Jefferson Van Drew, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Congressman Van Drew stands ready to assist in any way possible to stop "price-gouging" happening because of the Coronavirus crisis. There have been numerous reports of basic consumer goods' prices, such as toilet paper, sanitizers, flights and other necessities, being grossly overpriced. "Utilizing fear to rip people off during a crisis is abhorrent, dishonest and downright disgusting behavior.   more

Rep. Watson Coleman Urges Clarity From CDC on Coronavirus Testing
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 10: Following an exchange between Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) Dr. Robert R. Redfield, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies on Tuesday morning, Watson Coleman wrote to Redfield to request a clear plan for what states like New Jersey should expect  more

Reps. DeFazio, Pallone Ask Water Utility Companies to Stop Shutting Off Water Service in Midst of Coronavirus Outbreak
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Peter A. DeFazio, D-Oregon, chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following joint statement on March 10 urging water utility companies to avoid shutting off water service in the midst of the coronavirus outbreak: "Today we are asking water utility companies across the country to stop shutting off water service to residents and families for  more

Reps. Gottheimer, Mitchell Urge IRS to Delay Tax Filing Deadline 90 Days for Individuals, Businesses in Response to Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 13: U.S. Representatives Josh (NJ-5) and Paul Mitchell (MI-10) urged the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to extend the deadline for tax filings for individuals and business filers by ninety days. This request is in direct response to the impact that the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is having on North Jersey. "This would allow individuals more flexibility to pay for their housing, childcare for  more

Reps. Kim, Barr Introduce Bill to Raise Awareness of Critical Cardiac Condition
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Andy Kim, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03), Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06) introduced the bipartisan Cardiomyopathy Health Education, Awareness, Research, and Training in the Schools (HEARTS) Act, H.R. 6166, a bill that would raise awareness of, and increase resources towards, cardiomyopathy. "Cardiomyopathy poses a real threat to tens of thousands of families across the United States, and one that I've heard about from p  more

Reps. Pallone, DeFazio Issue Statement Asking Companies to Stop Shutting Off Water Service in Midst of Coronavirus Outbreak
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Rep. Peter DeFazio, D-Oregon, chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, issued the following joint statement on March 10 urging water utility companies to avoid shutting off water service in the midst of the coronavirus outbreak: "Today we are asking water utility companies across the country to stop shutting off water service to residents and families   more

Reps. Pallone, Schakowsky Issue Statement on CDC Recommendation to Travelers
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Rep. Jan Schakowsky, D-Illinois, chairman of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection and Commerce, issued the following joint statement after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that all travelers should avoid cruises: "Following the CDC recommendation that all Americans avoid taking cruises as long as the coronavirus continues to spread, we're calling on  more

Sen. Menendez Calls on Commerce Department to Stop U.S. Companies From Buying Goods Made by Uyghur Forced Laborers
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 10: Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, sent a letter to Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross calling on his department to take steps to prevent American companies and consumers from buying goods produced by forced labor in Xinjiang, China. The Chinese government has implemented a repressive system of surveillance and mass internment against mi  more

Sen. Menendez Closing Statement at Hearing on Syria: 'What More Testimony Do We Need?'
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: At a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing examining the devastation caused by the nine-year Syrian civil war, Ranking Member Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) used his time for questions to deliver a powerful call to action for the Trump Administration and the U.S. Congress to hold the Assad regime accountable for the humanitarian catastrophe it has inflicted on its people. "I hope that your testimony and   more

Sen. Menendez Hosts Ecuadorian-American Roundtable
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Bob Menendez, ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, hosted a roundtable in his Newark office earlier this week with members of New Jersey's large Ecuadorian-American community to discuss his commitment to improving the United States' relationship with Ecuador. "I'm proud to represent New Jersey's vibrant Ecuadorian community, which has made indelible contributions to   more

Sen. Menendez Issues Remarks at AFL-CIO on Report on Assessing Labor Rights, Safety in Bangladesh
WASHINGTON, March 6 -- Sen. Bob Menendez, D-New Jersey, ranking Democratic member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following remarks to release a report produced by his Committee staff on investigating labor rights and worker abuses in Bangladesh: Menendez spoke at the AFL-CIO headquarters in Washington with AFL-CIO president Richard Trumka. Menendez's remarks can be found below: "President Trumka, thank you for that kind introduction and above all, for your stalwart lea  more

Sen. Menendez Issues Statement on Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following statement upon that a Bergen County man in his 60s has become the state's first death attributed to the coronavirus: "My heart goes out to the family and loved ones of the New Jersey man who succumbed to the COVID-19 coronavirus. "This hits particularly close to home for me and only serves to underscore the seriousness of this public health emergency. "This terrible news only redoubles my resolve to ensure the  more

Sen. Menendez Issues Statement on International Women's Day
WASHINGTON, March 6 -- Sen. Bob Menendez, D-New Jersey, ranking Democratic member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement marking International Women's Day: "Today, I want to highlight twenty-five women who have risked their lives, withstood torture, and been unjustly detained for fighting for human rights, democracy, a free and fair press, and the rights of vulnerable LGBT populations, as well as safeguarding their culture and the environment. The repressive r  more

Sen. Menendez Issues Statement on Meeting With OAS Secretary General Almagro
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following statement on March 10: Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, and Congresswoman Donna Shalala (Fla.-27) issued the following statement after meeting with Organization of American States (OAS) Secretary General Luis Almagro: "It was a plea  more

Sen. Menendez Joins NJ Delegation in Calling on CDC to Address Coronavirus Testing Delays
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 11: U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker joined members of the New Jersey House delegation in calling on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for information regarding when New Jersey should expect to receive confirmation of the 23 pending presumed positive coronavirus (COVID-19) cases on which the state continues to wait. The Members also requested information regarding   more

Sen. Menendez Meets With Health Care Workers as COVID-19 Spreads in NJ, Blasts Trump Admin
WASHINGTON, March 10 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Bob Menendez, a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee that sets national health policy, met with health care professionals from North Hudson Community Action Corporation, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), to discuss their efforts in combatting COVID-19, treating their patients and protecting their workers. FQHCs are trusted providers for many in lower-income communities   more

Sen. Menendez Opening Remarks at Committee Hearing on Assad's Campaign Against the Syrian People
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Sen. Bob Menendez, D-New Jersey, ranking Democratic member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following opening remarks on March 11 at a committee hearing titled "Nine Years of Brutality: Assad's Campaign Against the Syrian People": Testifying at today's hearing where Syrian Military Defector known by his codename "Caesar", Omar Alshogre, Director of detainee issues for the Syrian Emergency Task Force, and Raed Al Saleh, Head of the Syria Civil Defense  more

Sen. Menendez, Colleagues Urge Regulators to Provide Guidance to Financial Institutions About Forbearance Due to Coronavirus Impacts
WASHINGTON, March 10 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), a senior member of the Senate Banking Committee joined democratic colleagues in the committee to urge financial regulators and trade groups to prepare for the likely impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the financial sector and take steps to protect consumers who may suffer financially as a result of a COVID-19 outbreak. In a letter to leaders of the Federal R  more

Sen. Menendez, Reps. Watson Coleman, Sherrill Demand Big Tech Companies Protect Privacy of Women Using Menstruation, Fertility Tracker Apps
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: * * * - 100 million women around the world use menstruation-tracking and fertility-tracking apps * * * U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), along with Congresswomen Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.-12) and Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.-11) asked Apple, Samsung and Google's App stores to immediately remove any app which shares users' private health data with third parties without obtaining explicit consent bef  more

Sen. Menendez, Senators Urge Trump Admin to Re-Open the Obamacare Enrollment Window
NEWARK, New Jersey, March 14 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 13: * * * - Expanding access to health insurance makes public health safer for all and can help people from getting hit with huge health bills, Senators tell Azar * * * In light of the expanding COVID-19 outbreak, and in an effort to ensure more Americans have access to affordable health care, U.S. Senator Bob Menendez and 24 colleagues urged the Trump Administration to open a speci  more

Sen. Menendez: Senate Democrats Call on EU to Sanction 'Putin's Chef' Citing Concerns About Russian Meddling in 2020 Election
WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Sen. Bob Menendez, D-New Jersey, ranking Democratic member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following news release: Leading national security senators called for an immediate increase in joint U.S.-E.U. diplomatic and economic isolation efforts of Yevgeny Viktorovich Prigozhin, a Russian oligarch and longtime Putin crony widely known as a driving force behind the Kremlin's malign influence abroad. In a letter to Ambassador of the European Union to th  more

Sens. Booker, Menendez Press White House on Coronavirus Screening Efforts at U.S. Airports
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Sen. Cory Booker, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 11: In a letter sent late yesterday, U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-NJ) pressed the White House for answers regarding the Administration's COVID-19 screening efforts at airports across the country. In a letter to Vice President Pence, the lawmakers cite troubling reports of individuals not being screened for COVID-19 at airports, including Newark Liberty, despite traveling from  more

Sens. Menendez, Blackburn Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Increase US Prescription Drug Manufacturing
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on March 11: U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) introduced the Securing America's Medicine Cabinet Act (SAM-C) to increase American manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), the building blocks of prescription drugs. Currently, only 28% of API-producing facilities are in the United States and the number of Chinese facilities has more than doubled since 2  more

Sens. Menendez, Booker Introduce Bill to Eliminate Patient Cost-Sharing for Coronavirus Testing, Treatment
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: * * * - Bill would require health insurance companies to cover diagnostic, treatment services with no cost-sharing to patients * * * U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced a bill aimed at helping Americans with the medical costs of any tests, care, or treatment related to the novel Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. The Care for COVID-19 Act would require health insur  more

Sens. Menendez, Booker Press White House on Coronavirus Screening Efforts at U.S. Airports
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: * * * - Lawmakers cite troubling reports of individuals not being screened for COVID-19 at airports despite traveling from regions with high cases of the virus * * * U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker pressed the White House for answers regarding the Administration's COVID-19 screening efforts at airports across the country. In a letter to Vice President Pence, the lawmakers cite troubling   more

Sens. Menendez, Booker, Colleagues Introduce the Great American Outdoors Act
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-N.J.) joined a bipartisan group of colleagues in introducing the Great American Outdoors Act, landmark legislation to preserve and protect our country's public lands. The bipartisan legislation provides permanent and full funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and addresses the nearly $12 billion maintenance backlog in our national pa  more

Sens. Menendez, Booker, Colleagues Urge DeVos to Issue Guidance for Schools, Families as COVID-19 Outbreak Causes School Closures
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker joined a group of their Democratic colleagues in urging U.S. Department of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos to provide guidance for school districts and institutions of higher education, as well as students and their families, following school closures in New Jersey and across the nation due to the COVID-19 outbreak. "We do not yet know the scale at which K-  more

Sens. Menendez, Booker, Colleagues Urge Internet Providers to Suspend Service Terms Affecting Telepresence Services During Coronavirus Outbreak
NEWARK, New Jersey, March 13 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker joined a group of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to the CEOs of eight major internet service providers (ISPs) calling on the companies to take steps to accommodate the unprecedented reliance we will likely see on telepresence services, including telework, online education, telehealth, and remote support services. In the letter, sent to t  more

Sens. Menendez, Durbin, Cardin, Rep. Shalala Issue Statement on After Meeting With OAS Secretary General Almagro
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Sen. Bob Menendez, D-New Jersey, ranking Democratic member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following joint statement on March 10 with Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin, D-Illinois, Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Maryland, ranking member of the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, and Rep. Donna Shalala, D-Florida, after meeting with Organization of American States Secretary General Luis Almagro: "It was a pleasure to again welcome Secretary Almagro to the U.S. Cap  more

Sens. Menendez, Murray Lead Request for the IRS to Extend Tax-Filing Deadline for Individual Taxpayers
WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, and Patty Murray (D-Wash.), ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee led a group of Senate colleagues in urging Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Charles Rettig to extend the April 15, 2020 tax-filing deadline to provide taxpayers greater flexibility amid challeng  more

Sens. Menendez, Murray, Colleagues Urge Trump Administration to Protect American Workers Against COVID-19
WASHINGTON, March 11 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: * * * - The senators urged the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to issue a comprehensive Emergency Temporary Standard to protect all workers against the coronavirus outbreak * * * U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.) led a group of colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to direct the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to issu  more